Ketchum Family Blog

Jen's Sketch Challenge January 2012

2012-01-09T19:10:00.001-08:00

Happy know what 2012 has in store for us, we know that God is in control and we can rest assured He has great plans for us! The beginning of each new year is always encouraging for me. In reality, every day is an opportunity for a new start, but there is something about starting a new year and the possibilities before you. THIS will be the year I get off that extra weight. THIS will be the year I read the entire Bible in a year and stay on track. THIS will be the year I get my finances in order. THIS will be the year I go back to school and finish that degree....what will THIS year be for you?

I don't know what the year will bring for me, but I do know that the fabulous Jen del Muro has brought back the SFYTT challenge for 2012 and I am playing along all year long once again! This month's sponsor is The Cat's Pajamas. I don't have any TCP stamps, but I played along anyway using the sketch.

Play along every month for a chance to win a great prize package at the end of the year!

For this month's sketch, I made a card for my friend's mother's 70th birthday. Her mom insisted on no party, so instead she is throwing a "card shower" for her. Everyone is sending the cards to her house and she will surprise her mom with all of them. Isn't that a great idea?

Supplies

Cardstock - The Paper Co, Stampin' Up!

Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Stampin' Up!

Ink - Stampin' Up!
Cricut Cartridge - From the Nest

Jen's Sketch Challenge December 2011

2011-12-10T15:59:00.001-08:00

Time for another one of Jen Del Muro's monthly sketch challenges. This is the final sketch challenge for the year, but she has already announced on her blog that she will be doing monthly sketch challenges again in 2012. Yay! When she initially announced she was going from a weekly challenge to a monthly challenge I will admit I was disappointed but it's actually been really nice to only have one challenge each month. I love participating in challenges, but I don't have time to do one every week and if I need to make projects in between there are plenty of other sketches out there, or I can dig into my archives, or just get creative with my own layout :).

If you haven't played along this year, please join us next year. She's had wonderful prizes from some terrific sponsors and it's always fun to see what others do with the sketch.

Here's my contribution....I made this card for Kendall's 17th birthday. Since she's not a girly-girl I decided to go with this little punker and I cut out some skulls with my Cricut and added some bling to their eyes. It's a very fun little card. Enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Papertrey Ink, Stampin' Up!

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Digi Punk Girl - The Greeting Farm, Sentiment - Hero Arts

Copic Markers

Cricut Cartridge - Potpourri Basket

Bling - K & Co

Punches - Stampin' Up!

Dies - Spellbinders

Jen's Sketch Challenge November 2011

2011-11-06T18:51:00.001-08:00

It's sketch time! The always fabulous Jen del Muro has provided us with another fantastic sketch and another wonderful sponsorship! This month, the sponsor is Verve Stamps. I absolutely adore Verve! They have such elegant designs and some of the most beautiful sentiments with classy and gorgeous fonts. Their stamps are of the highest quality and give an excellent image every time! They also have a fantastic DT with some of the most talented designers you will find.

I decided to make a card for my mother's upcoming birthday. Although the sentiment doesn't scream "birthday" I loved it for her, because she does make me smile and really, who says just because a card is for a birthday that it MUST say, "Happy birthday?"

I used a new paper pad from Authentique that I recently purchased from Archiver's and I have to say that this is probably one of my favorite paper collections I have ever come across. I adore the designs and the color combination.....absolutely stunning! I used an image stamp from Verve to create my own design on a sheet of paper from the collection that had a little bit of distressing on it. On the flowers, I just dabbed a little bit of color, purposely making them uneven to give them a little more natural look.

Enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Authentique

Stamps - Verve Stamps (image), Hero Arts (Sentiment, Heart)

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Gems - Michael's

Flowers - Prima Marketing

Paint - Lindy Stamp Gang

Stickles - Ranger Industries

Outside the Box

2011-10-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

I visit countless blogs, watch crafting You Tube videos, participate in sketch challenges and still find myself making cards with very similar styles - patterned paper, lots of layers, an image stamp, and a sentiment. I wanted to do something outside the box (at least outside of MY box) and really loved the way this card turned out!

First off, I adore the bright yellow/turquoise combination and any card that includes butterflies on it is a winner in my book! This card took me literally just a few minutes to make, but it is so vibrant and interesting. It's not quite a single layer card, but it does NOT include any patterned paper, so that counts, right?

Supplies

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Bazzil Basics

Stamps - Hero Arts (image), Jillibean Soup (sentiment)

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Spray Ink - Lindy Stamp Gang

Ribbon - American Crafts

Jen's Sketch Challenge October 2011

2011-10-04T19:45:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's already October? Where did the summer go? October is actually one of my favorite months, but I wish that it did not mean winter was right around the corner. The evenings are starting to cool down and some days a light sweater is appropriate. My favorite thing about October is watching the leaves change. They are absolutely magnificent! I also love the smell of pumpkin candles and making soup and chili and looking forward to the holidays.

Jen del Muro gave us another fantastic sketch to work with this month. Go here to get all the details and play along. This month the sponsor is Waltzing Mouse Stamps. They have the most adorable stamps! Don't forget if you play along every month for the year, there is a chance to win a huge prize package.

For my card I decided to make a birthday card for my dad. I found this fantastic patterned paper last night at Archivers (did you go and get 43% off of all patterned paper????) Me either :).

Supplies:

Patterned Paper - Theresa Collins

Cardstock - Stamin' Up!

Stamps - Stampers Anonymous, Stampin' Up!, Papertrey Ink

Ink - Ranger Industries

Button - Basic Grey

Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster Designs

Cricut Cartridge - Pack Your Bags

Zig Writer

Gel Pen

Jen's Sketch Challenge September 2011

2011-09-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Time for another sketch challenge from the fabulous Jen del Muro. I truly look forward to playing along with these sketches month after month. I love the rounded corners on this particular sketch! We are in the process of buying a house right now, so our priorities are paperwork and packing and that doesn't leave much time for crafting, but I had to make a card for my amazing sister so I decided to use this sketch for her card. I had fun with the pink and black color combination and don't you just love the polka-dots I created? So fun! I would like to play with this sketch again when I have more time, so I will be saving this one for future projects! I think this sketch would be fantastic for a baby card. Then again, wouldn't any sketch be fantastic for a baby card?

I must mention that this month's sponsor is Skipping Stones Design. Be sure to visit Jen's blog to play along!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Stampin Up!

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - My Mind's Eye (images), Hero Arts (Sentiment)
Ink - Stampin' Up!

Embossing Powder - Stampin' Up!

Jen's Sketch Challenge August 2011

2011-08-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

Time for another one of Jen del Muro's amazing sketches! You have a couple of days left to play along to have an opportunity to win a prize from this month's sponsor Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps. You can see all of the details here.

I decided to make a birthday card for my new brother-in-law using this sketch. He eats, sleeps, lives and breathes baseball so it was very easy for me to decide on a theme for his card! I used my Cricut and these adorable star embellies from Theresa Collins to give it a little something special. I loved this sketch so much that I will be saving it and making some fun projects in the future.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - SEI

Stamps - Stampin' Up!

Ink - Ranger Industries, Stampin' Up!

Cricut Cartridge - Potpouri Basket

Star Embellishments - Theresa Collins

Sunshine and Laughter

2011-08-01T20:07:00.001-07:00

I made this card for my step mom Valerie's birthday. I sat down with no design in mind. I don't do that often, but there are those times when I don't know what I'm going to do until I sit down at my table and cling onto something for inspiration. When I sat down to create this card, I started with the patterned paper. I love the sunny colors and the combination of the yellow with the teal. After choosing the patterned paper, I picked up m Storybook Cricut cartridge and decided to cut this flower (I have been eyeing this image for quite sometime.) As I was going through my flower bin I came across these resin flowers that I had forgotten all about. I absolutely love them and am so glad I came across them!

I need to go "shopping" in my craft room more often. I have so many products that I have never used and I need to get out of the habit of using the same products constantly and get outside of the box a little more and try new things! Like resin flowers. They are so yum!

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Crate Paper
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Cricut Cartridge - Storybook
Resin Flowers - Prima
Stamp - Hero Arts
Corner Chomper - We R Memory Keepers

With Thanks

2011-07-11T19:28:00.001-07:00

I don't know if this card could be considered CAS, but it is pretty clean and simple for me! There are not a lot of layers or a lot of stamping, but I think it turned out really elegant and beautiful. I wanted to make a special thank you card for Kendall's Learning RX teacher and I felt good giving such a special person this special card.

I let the patterned paper take center stage on this card and didn't add too much to it. I also took the opportunity to use some baker's twine and this gorgeous rose that has been sitting in my scrap room for about a month now. Sometimes simply stated cards can work so well! I must challenge myself to do more of these in the future.

Supplies
Patterned Paper - My Mind's Eye
Cardstock - Papertre Ink
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Stamp - Stampin' Up!
Baker's Twine - The Twinery
Mulberry Rose and Leaves - I am Roses
Punches - Stampin' Up!, EK Success

That's a NASCAR

2011-07-11T19:18:00.001-07:00

D2's (my step dad) 65th birthday was on July 2. My sister and mom went in on some tickets to a NASCAR race for a gift for him. The race is not until October, but he was surprised with the tickets for his birthday and has something exciting to look forward to. He loves auto racing (as does D1, coincidentally).....and we know he is going to have a blast. We cannot be there with him, but we sent a check to my sister to help pay for the tickets. My sister suggested a NASCAR themed card so I headed over to Archiver's to their themed scrapbooking area (I LOVE the way that store is organized....totally right up my alley) and found these adorable checkered flags in the sports section. This little flag embelishment pack also had the number 9 in it but I am not sure of drivers and their numbers since I am not into auto racing, so I left the number off and put the sentiment over the area where the number would go so that it didn't look so bare. I used my Cricut to cut out this license plate frame to hold the sentiment. I also found some checkered patterned paper to tie everything together.

Jen's Sketch Challenge 07-11

2011-07-08T20:39:00.000-07:00

Time for another sketch challenge by the fabulous Jen del Muro. You can view the post for this month's sketch here http://iheart2stamp.com/2011/07/02/july-sketch-for-you-to-try/ (Blogger STILL refuses to allow me to add links correctly.)

I love the sketch for this month. In fact, I might do another card using this sketch very soon. It is so versatile...you can rotate it every which way and the possibilities with the little circle elements are endless.

The sponsor for this month is My Favorite Things and you have an opportunity to win some awesome prizes. I didn't se any MFT stamps because I don't own any (yet) but I am going to be placing an order soon. MFT has fantastic dies and very whimsical, fun image stamps.

I decided to build a scene for this card. I will admit, I am not very experienced at building scenes in cards so I have a ways to go, but I had so much fun creating this scene and I was inspired to try this technique more and really strengthen my skills in this area. I always like to stretch myself and CAS cards and cards where you build a scene are the areas I need the most practice in.

I love the stamps and patterned paper I used on this card. I was at Archiver's about a week ago and saw this adorable bear stamp and had to get the tree stamp as well and then...and then.....as I was walking through the store I spotted this paper from October Afternoon and knew I had to get some paper to go with the stamps. I didn't buy the entire collection because I don't see myself making a lot of cards or scrapbook pages with a camping theme, but I did pick up a few pages and they are all absolutely adorable. If we had some camping pictures from a recent trip I would most definitely be creating a mini out of these papers!

Anyway, I hope you enjoy.

Supplies
Patterned Paper - October Afternoon
Cardstock - The Paper Co, Stampin' Up!, Papertrey Ink
Ink - Stampin' Up!, Tsukineko
Stamps - Imaginisce (Image), Hero Arts (Sentiment)
Buttons - Basic Grey (Orange, Green) Unknown (Brown)

Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster Designs

Cricut Cartridge - From the Nest
Copic Markers - E33, E25, E27, E29
Prisma Color colored pencils

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-22T19:47:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed with 3 wonderful Dad's. My father, my step father, who has been in my life since age 6, whom I affectionately refer to as D2 (as in dad #2) and my father-in-law who passed away in 2007. My time with my FIL was cut way too short, but I feel so honored that I got to share my life with him, even for a short time.

Due to our crazy schedules, I didn't have much design time, so I cheated a bit and made two of the same card for both D1 and D2. I had to play arond with the card quite a bit before I got it right. I started with a very flat card and wasn't excited about it, so I used some dimensional adhesive and created this fantastic shadow behind the airplane to give it some motion and was very happy with the way the end product turned out. I also added some dew drops to the clouds, which added a little bit of whimsy to the card, but also added some additional dimension. Both dads were very happy with their cards and appreciated that they were handmade.

That's what I love about our hobby....we get to share it with others and something that we enjoy so much brings other people much pleasure. It is a win-win!

Supplies
Patterned Paper - My Mind's Eye
Cardstock - The Paper Co.
Stamp - Stampin' Up!
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Cricut Cartridges - Heritage, Potpouri Basket
Dew Drops - Cloud 9 Design

My Little Stamping Space

2011-06-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

Christina at Creations with Christina has started a little feature on her blog called, "Show us your....." and this week, it is show us your craft space. You can see the post here http://www.creationswithchristina.com/2011/06/show-usyour-craftspace.html. I think I originally discovered Christina's blog when I was searching You Tube for PTI videos. Christina has some fantastic Cricut tutorial videos and this new feature on her blog is such fun!

I am always on the lookout for new storage ideas for my little stamping space and since I love to organize, the more organized my space can be, the better.

I took these photos at night, so the lighting isn't great, but you at least can get an idea of what my space looks like. I am really so very thankful to have my own room to dedicate to papercrafting. In our old house, I had a corner in the living room so this space is such a treat for me! I love to hole up in my room with my pretty decorations and put on some music or a DVD and get lost in creativity. It really is my own little sanctuary.

Shot of the room from the doorway. The desk at the end of the room is where my laptop lies.

My table and plastic storage drawers. That Archiver's bag at the end of the table holds new supplies that are waiting to be used and projects that I have yet to begin. I only have one chair in the room so I just move it to the table when I'm crafting and back to the desk when I'm working on my laptop. I have the table facing the center of the room so that I'm not staring at the wall when I'm working and I can watch movies while I'm working.

I love this part of the room! The white drawers hold all of my cardstock. I forgot to take a shot of the open drawers.

Shelves on the wall with decorations I got at Hobby Lobby. The two jars hold all of my PTI buttons.

I got this paper cart at Costco and it holds blank cards, envelopes, die cuts, patterned paper, and scraps. Lots and lots of scraps. And some more scraps....which I try to use regularly but still my scrap drawers runneth over.

I got this little shelving unit and canvas drawers from Target. The center shelf holds magazines for inspiration and the bottom canvas drawer holds all things Cuttlebug - embossing folders, dies, and Nestabilities as well as all of the plates.

The top drawer holds all of my flowers. I recently got my first order from I am Roses....oh my! They are so gorgeous!

This is a little hardware unit I bought at Walmart and I use it to store all of my buttons (color coordinated, naturally) with the exception of my PTI buttons and other hardware - brads, clips, etc. I love this little unit.

I got this adorable hat boxes at Hobby Lobby. The top hat box holds all of my chipboard and the bottom box holds pamphlets, instructions for various tools, mini catalogs from Stampin' Up! and other papers that I want to hide.

My Stampin' Up! ink and Stickles, Alcohol Inks, Re-Inkers, and glitter.

This caddy is not the Making Memories model that everyone has. I was late to the game but found this one at Michael's and I actually think I like it even better. I have all of the tools that I need right at my fingertips and it is very easy to find what I need.

Prisma markers, decorative edge scissors, glimmer mist, Lindy Stamp Gang Starburst stains, and Perfect Pearls.

Embossing powders, paint, Glossy Accents, stamp cleaning supplies.

This unit is by Simply Renee (makers of the Clip it Up unit) and I absolutely love it, but have completely outgrown it. I have an entire drawer that is overflowing with ribbon. I have a thing for ribbon. Apparently.

Unity Rubba Rack!

This is where I store all of my Unity Kit of the Month kits. I was a member for about 18 months and then found that I had so many stamps I had never inked up that I needed to stop but if you haven't tried the kit of the month from Unity, I highly recommend it! Their stamps are super good quality and they are whimsical and classy and elegant and hilarious.....something for everyone every month! This basket holds my kits perfectly. I also have this Fancy Pants stamp set thrown in there because it's too big to fit anywhere else. That is how I roll.

This drawer cart mainly holds stamps, with a drawer of ink pads on the top. Here's an open shot to give you an idea. I am loving the new unmounted rubber from Stampin' Up! now. Anything to save space is ok with me!

In the other drawer cart I have embelishments, alpha stickers, my ribbon overlfow, colored penciles, embossing gun, a few punches.....a bit of this and that.

My punch storage. I am pretty much only buying edge punches now that I have my Cricut. I find between the Cricut and Nestabilities dies, I have very little need for punches with the exception of edge punches.

My Copic storage. I found this unit at Hobby Lobby for $10 and then used a 40% off coupon. It holds a lot and fits perfectly on the top of my desk. It's just right for me.

Inside my closet. This is a shelving unit that holds Cricut cartridges, a few idea books, some scrapbooks, and misc office supplies like paper and CD's.

Also in the closet - this little unit holds tags, extra sponges, and extra adhesive. I like to be prepared :)

On the top shelf of my closet I store my holiday stamps. I was running out of room in the drawer cart so I moved the holiday stamps that I only use at certain times of the year to these storage bins and I find this system works much better for me.

Thanks for stopping by!

Jen's Sketch Challenge 06-11

2011-06-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

I so look forward to the first Saturday of the month, because Jen del Muro releases another sketch challenge. For this week's challenge, visit this link http://iheart2stamp.com/2011/06/04/june-sketch-for-you-to-try/ (Blogger is still not letting me insert links using the linking tool....oy!) This month's sponsor is Your Next Stamp. I primarily used my Cricut for this card, with the exception of one stamp that I used along with some embossing to add a little interest to one of the larger panels.

My dear, sweet, wonderful, brave friend Rhonda is on her way to Kuwait. She is a soldier and has a strong desire and need to head to the desert to do her duty. She is an honorable American and we are praying for her safety and the safety of all of the men and women that are overseas fighting for our freedom. It is because of these brave individuals that we get to live life as a free people and I never want to take for granted the life that I have because of those that have fought to make this country what it is.

We had a going away dinner for Rhonda last week and I made this card for her. I want her to know that she is my hero and I am so thankful for her as a friend, but also as an American. God has blessed this country and I pray that He will bless those that sacrafice for us every day.

Supplies
Cricut Cartridge - Stand and Salute
Cardstock - The Paper Co
Card Base - The Paper Co
Fiber - The Twinery
Embossing Folder - Provo Craft
Stamp - Stampin' Up!
Ink - Versamark
Emobssing Powder - Stampendous

Jonny Diaz - More Beautiful You

2011-06-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love this message to young girls/women. There could never be a more beautiful you...here are the lyrics. They speak for themselves.

Little girl fourteen flipping through a magazine Says she wants to look that way
But her hair isn't straight her body isn't fake And she's always felt overweight
Well little girl fourteen I wish that you could see That beauty is within your heart
And you were made with such care your skin your body and your hair Are perfect just the way they are
There could never be a more beautiful you
Don't buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through
You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you

Little girl twenty-one the things that you've already done Anything to get ahead
And you say you've got a man but he's got another plan Only wants what you will do instead
Well little girl twenty-one you never thought that this would come You starve yourself to play the part
But I can promise you there's a man whose love is true And he'll treat you like the jewel you are

So turn around you're not too far
To back away be who you are
To change your path go another way
It's not too late you can be saved
If you feel depressed with past regrets
The shameful nights hope to forget
Can disappear they can all be washed away
By the one who's strong can right your wrongs
Can rid your fears dry all your tears
And change the way you look at this big world
He will take your dark distorted view
And with His light He will show you truth
And again you'll see through the eyes of a little girl

You Rock!

2011-05-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

Making cards for teenagers is another challenge (maybe even more difficult than masculine cards.) The card has to be cool, not geared toward someone too young, and suited to the taste of the recipient.

My beautiful step daughter Nicole was just promoted to 9th grade and Jay and my MIL drove across Kansas to be there. Kendall and I had to stay back (boo!) because Kendall had finals and we had to go to Learning RX every night. The weather was absolutey awful during their trip (downpours, hail, tornado warnings....) but they made it and were able to be there to support Nicole and made it home safely. It meant so much to Nicole to have them there, which totally made it worth it and they created lasting memories.

Here's the card I made for her. I used this adorable Grunge stamp set I recently purchased from Papertrey Ink. It was my first PTI stamp set and the quality is incredible! I absolutely love everything from them that I have purchased (I am already hooked on their ribbon and CS) and love the versatility of their stamp sets. As soon as I saw the Grunge stamp set, I knew I had to purchase it to make cards for the girls. Nicole's favorite color combination is black and pink, so I just did a single layer card and played with the stamps. I added a few nail heads for a little added interest. I think the card is fun and cool and perfect for our little (big) graduate!

Supplies
Card Base - The Paper Co.
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Stamps - Papertrey Ink
Nail Heads - Mark Richards

Masculine Card Idea

2011-05-30T17:49:00.001-07:00

Why is that masculine cards are so difficult to design? Perhaps it's because of the abundance of floral patterned paper and gorgeous ribbon, elegant Prima flowers, and cutesy stamps? Sure you can make a masculine card out of some plaid paper (yawn) or just use some cardstock and a sentiment, but men deserve a card that required creativity as much as ladies do! I have had quite a few occassions recently where I needed a masculine card, so I have been flexing my creative muscles.

I made this card for my brother's birthday. He is not an army guy (although this card would be great for one!) but I wanted to make a masculine card for him and when I spotted this camouflage design in my Stars and Stripes Cricut cartridge, the idea struck me.

I started with some Sahara Sand cardstock from Stampin' Up! and then sponged on some Vintage Photo Distress ink to give it a dirty, sandy look. Then I cut the Camouflage pieces out of Always Artichoke cardstock from Stampin' Up! and then sponged the edges.

The dog tag was cut using the same cartridge, also out of Sahara Sand cardstock. After I cut the piece out, I used some Chocolate paint from a Ranger Spone Dauber and painted the entire piece, including the chain. Then I sprayed it with Caramel Apple Tattered Angels glimmer mist to give it a metalic look. The initials came from a sticker sheet from Basic Grey (Ambrosia collection.) They were a light cream color that almost had a pink tint to it, which obviously would not work on this macho card, so I painted them with some more Ranger paint using a paintbrush. I wanted them to have a bit of sparkle as well, so I painted them with some bronze Perfect Pearls. I was happy with the final results and will be playing with the images on this cartridge again soon!

Close-Up

Supplies
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Cricut Cartridge - Stars & Stripes
Paint - Ranger Industries
Glimmer Mist - Tattered Angels
Perfect Pearls - Ranger Industries
Stickers - Basic Grey
Ink - Ranger Industries

Life is Good

2011-05-28T20:09:00.001-07:00

I made this card several months ago for my brother-in-law. I always have a heck of a time coming up with designs for masculine cards, but Graphic 45 to the rescue!!!! Who doesn't love the gorgeous designs by Graphic 45? Each sheet of paper is a complete work of art and one of my favorite collections is A Proper Gentleman. It is a classic collection reminiscent of days when men wore top hats and opened doors and treated women like true ladies. I love how far women have come in the work place and the opportunities we now have, but I do miss the days when men would stand up when a woman got up to go to the restroom (my husband still does that, by the way) and would hold doors open and take the hand of a lady when walking in the rain. This collection reminds me of those days.

I also love the pocket watches! When my husband and I got married, we got pocket watches for our best man and groomsan, which happened to be my father-in-law and brother-in-law. My father-in-law passed away 4 years ago and we miss him every day, but whenever I see a pocket watch, I think of him and my heart sings.

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Graphic 45
Stamps - Stamper's Anonymous, Verve Stamps
Ink - Ranger Industries, Stampin' Up!
Hardware - Tim Holtz
Nestabilities Dies
Embossing Powder - Ranger Industries

Bare Essentials

2011-05-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

I have been battling a rash around my eyes since sometime in November. I had never experienced anything like it in my life. I hadn't changed skincare products, had not used new make-up, didn't change linens or laundry detergent, hadn't changed my diet....nothing had changed yet I had this inexplicable rash around my eyes. I went to my PCP and he prescribed some hydracortizone cream and told me to apply it twice a day. The rash redness and swelling would lessen, but the rash would never go away entirely. After several months the rash was still present and the flare-ups got worse. I called my PCP and he was booked solid, so he sent me to urgent care. I saw a MD there and he prescribed steroids and antibiotics. I took everything as prescribed and the symptoms lessened again, but then they came back worse than ever. After several weeks and lots of experimentation (stopped wearing make-up entirely, switched to all natural face wash, eye cream, eye make-up remover, changed the sheets on the bed from the flannel winter sheets to the cotton summer sheets, stopped washing my face with Dove in the shower....everything I could think of), I was beyond frustrated and discouraged. I was tired of having swollen skin around my eyes, tired of not being able to wear eye make-up, tired of not feeling beautiful. I had lost 15 pounds and fitting into my skinny jeans, but my eyes (my best feature) looked horrible. I called my PCP again and he gave me a referral to see a dermotologist. He sat down, asked me questions, talked to me, and made me feel important to him. I am not used to that treatment from Tricare doctors, but this doctor was special. After our conversation, he diagnosed me with a rare form of rosacea that normally affects the area around the mouth. I read the symptoms on the pamphlet he gave me and was confident he was right. He prescribed some medication and cream (non steroid cream) and now 3 weeks later it is almost completely gone and I have not had one flare-up. I go back to see him in a week and to give him a big hug!!!!

Along my journey to solve the problem on my own, I decided to try some all natural face care products. Perfume free, chemical free, gentle products that my sensitive, difficult skin would agree with. I decided to try the Bare Minerals skincare line. My dear friend Kim swore by it and I have heard nothing but positive reviews from friends and family using any Bare Minerals products.

Initially I thought it was just ok. The cleanser lathers real well and you only have to use a drop, but the moisturizer didn't feel like it was going to keep my skin from drying out. Well, after a couple of weeks I understand why Kim loves these products so much. My skin looks younger. It is softer, it is smoother, it is even toned and it feels clean all the time. I still haven't worn foundation since January (I had stopped to try to help my eyes heal) and now I don't even need it. I wear a little bit of powder and some blush and my skin looks fantastic. The products are a little more expensive than the OTC Oil of Olay products I was using, but they are well worth it. The cleanser will last forever because you have to use such a small amount, but I am going through the moisturizer quite rapidly. I use two pumps in the morning and two pumps in the evening. Living in Colorado requires me to use extra moisturizer on my skin but that is the case no matter what product I use.

I am not here to endorse products, but when I find something I especially like, I want to share it with others. And this is a skincare line that has made a huge difference in my skin. I am 40 years old and my skin doesn't look a day over 30. Part of that is genetics and sunscreen, but I honestly have noticed a huge difference since switching to Bare Minerals.

I hope you will give them a try!

Verve Sketch 04-11

2011-05-25T18:58:00.000-07:00

I recently discovered the talented Shannan Tuebner's blog and fell in love with this sketch http://withfeathersandsequins.blogspot.com/2011/04/small-and-whiteclean-and-brightyou-look.html. I have been anxious to try making a card with sun rays but just wasn't sure what dimensions to use on the scraps and found the entire process rather intimidating until I saw Shannan's tutorial. She broke it down and used photos and descriptions to take the intimidation out of the process.

I made some Mother's Day cards and absolutely love how they turned out. I normally make a different design for each card for Mother's Day and Father's Day, but this year since our schedules are so tight, I didn't have the luxury of time to work with 3 different designs, so I made 3 identical cards using this sketch. The cards were still made with my hands and came from my heart and my Mom, Mother-in-Law and Step Mom all loved them.

I used this gorgeous paper from Stampin' Up! which has the most vibrant, lovely green hues which are complimented with some purple accents that make such a rich, elegant combination.

I also stamped some roses using a stamp set from My Mind's Eye and Versamark ink, to add some interest in the left corner panel for just the right touch!

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Stamps - My Mind's Eye (Image), Stampin' Up! (Sentiment)
Ink - Stampin' Up!, Versamark
Ribbon - Papertrey Ink
Border Punch - Stampin' Up!
Nestabilities Dies

Jen's Sketch Challenge 05-11

2011-05-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late to the game on this month's SFYTT by Jen Del Muro http://iheart2stamp.com/2011/05/07/may-sketch-for-you-to-try/ (Blogger is acting up....still and won't let me post links), but you still have a few days to play! Remember if you participate in the sketch challenge every month, not only do you have a chance to win the monthly prize (providing you use the sponsor's stamps), but you will have the opportunity to win a fantastic prize package at the end of the year. Go to Jen's blog for more details.

For this month's challenge, I made a card for a very crafty friend at work. It is always more challenging to make cards for crafty friends than it is non crafty friends because the non crafty friends are impressed no matter what you do and the crafty friends will always be supportive, but you know that they are noticing the details so you are extra conscious of any mistakes you have made.

I used the lovely (and I DO MEAN LOVELY) Stella and Rose collection from My Mind's Eye. I am seriously in love with this paper and have purchased two different 6x6 pads and may end up purchasing all 4 in time because it is just so gorgeous and the quality of My Mind's Eye papers in unmatched.

Since this sketch has a lot of layers I used plenty of layers, but I also created extra layers by placing cardstock behind the patterned paper and sponged the edges of each layer for additional interest.

The butterfly stamp is one of my favorites from Unity and one that I had never used for some crazy reason! I think I got it so long ago that I kind of forgot about it. I know this never happens to you, so please don't judge me :).

I finished off the card with some MME buttons, which are just so vibrant I couldn't help myself.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy and go and play along if you haven't already!

Supplies
Patterned Paper - My Mind's Eye

Cardstock - The Paper Co, Papertrey Ink, Stampin' Up!
Ink - Clearsnap, Ranger Industries, Papertrey Ink
Stamps - Unity (Image), Hero Arts (Sentiment)
Buttons - My Mind's Eye
Nestabilities Dies

Happy Birthday Sam!

2011-05-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

My sweet, wonderful, amazing nephew turned 8 this month. Sam has the biggest heart and always makes me smile. He's extremely athletic and loves and adores his family. He has a great deal of wisdom and has the most tender heart. He makes my heart sing and I just adore him.
Since Sam is all boy, I made this cute little rocket card for him. I had fun playing with the layers and think the faux stitching all around the card really made the elements stand out. Incidentally, my rocket scientist husband was nuts about this card....note to self, make hubby a rocket ship card for his birthday next year. Or perhaps Father's Day!

Supplies
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Bazzil Basics
Patterned Paper - Scraps from scrap drawer (Sorry, not sure of the brand name)
Ribbon - Stampin' Up!
Cricut Cartridge - Just Because Cards
Pens - Zig Marker, Signo Broad Gel Pen

Special Card - Special Lady

2011-05-10T20:34:00.000-07:00

Kendall has been going through Learning RX since October now. I will have to do a separate post all about Learning RX, because it is really worth of its own post entirely. While you are waiting, you can go to http://www.learningrx.com/ to learn more. For some reason, the link function in Blogger is not working for me right now, so you will just need to copy and paste the address. The program has been life changing in so many ways!

Kendall's trainer Katie has been a gift from God. We originally heard about Learning RX from my friend Carrie at work. Carrie's son Kyle went through the program and she told us about it and we went and had Kendall tested and once we decided to move forward, they assigned a trainer for Kendall. As it turns out, Katie was Kyle's trainer also and she is absolutely amazing. She is so kind and patient and amazing at what she does. She is a Christian with a beautiful spirit. We just fell in love with her.

A little birdie (Carrie) told me that it was Katie's birthday, so I made this card for her and we bought her a Barnes and Noble gift card. Katie is an avid reader (also a reading major in college) and belongs to a book club so we knew that would be the perfect gift for her.

She was so grateful for the small gift and card. We are SO grateful for her, it felt good to do something special for her to let her know how very much she is appreciated.

Supplies
Patterned Paper - My Mind's Eye
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Papertrey Ink
Stamps - My Mind's Eye (Image), Hero Arts (Sentiment)
Ink - Stampin' Up!, Papertrey Ink
Cricut Cartridge - From the Nest
Ribbon - American Crafts
Pearls - Basic Grey

Lantern Banner

2011-04-27T20:28:00.001-07:00

I am loving all of the adorable banner images that are coming out lately and when I saw this stamp set from American Crafts with lanterns on a wire, it made me think of a banner only with a twist and I couldn't wait to ink it up and play with it.

I decided to make a CAS card, which is actually more difficult for me than making a card with lots of layers. I tend to gravitate toward more patterned paper and less white space and loads of layers, but I enjoyed deviating from my usual style and going with something more clean and simple. I did add some stickles for a faux glass look and some liquid pearls for the hardware that connects the lanterns to the wire, which doesn't come out real well in the photo, but came out really realistic in person.

I absolutely love the new Stella and Rose collections from My Minds Eye. I can't get enough of it. To be totally honest, I can't get enough paper in general and really, really need to use every sheet in my craft space before I buy another sheet but I'm afraid I'm just too weak. I just love pretty paper!

Supplies
Patterned Paper - My Minds Eye
Card Base - The Paper Company
Ink - Tsukineko, Papertrey Ink
Ribbon - American Crafts
Stamps - American Crafts (Images), Hero Arts (Sentiment)
Stickles - Ranger Industries
Liquid Pearls - Ranger Industries
Border Punch - Martha Stewart Crafts

Jessica's Shower Invites

2011-04-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

My friend Jessica from work is fairly new to CO. She is also a California native, so I feel like she's a bit of a kindred spirit and I definitely appreciate what it's like to be away from longtime friends and family.

Well, Jessica has a GREAT reason to be in Colorado. That reason is true love. She and Josh are getting married in May in California. I am so happy for her! I have seen her and Josh together and I see something so special in them. God created them for one another and you can see it and feel it when you around them.

Jessica had a bridal shower in California during a recent visit, but we wanted to throw her another shower here in CO. She and Josh are starting their lives as a couple here and we wanted her to feel like this is home.

Jess has been VERY busy planning her wedding and traveling back and forth from CA, so she got the guest list to me a little late....which meant an evite for this event! Don't you just love evites when time is of the essence? There were a couple of guests that didn't have email so I made a couple of handmade invitations. Jess and Josh's colors are brown, orange and green, so I made invitations to coordinate. I also made some other crafty items for the shower but I can't post yet in case the bride visits the blog!

On the inside of the cards, I printed all of the shower details onto vellum and then backed it with green CS and attached with little orange brads. I didn't post a picture because our address and phone number are on there and I don't want to post publicly.

Supplies
Cardstock - Bazzil, The Paper Co, Stampin' Up!
Brads - Making Memories
Vellum - Stampin' Up!
Cricut Cartidge - Storybook, From the Nest
Nestabilities Die
Embossing Folder - Cuttlebug

Jen's Sketch Challenge 04-11

2011-04-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

This month Jen has another fabulous sketch with another amazing sponsor (and one of my favs) - Unity Stamp Co! I have been using Unity stamps for a little over 2 years now and they are amazing! I first discovered them through a fellow stamping friend and joined their kit of the month club, which, if you are new to stamping (which I was at the time) - is a GREAT way to build up your stamp collection. You get a full 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of deeply etched red rubber stamps of the absolute highest quality every month delivered right to your door. Each month they send you a combination of sentiment and image stamps and you have the option of opting out of a particular month's kit if it doesn't suite your fancy...although I am quite certain they all will! I was a member of "the club" for 18 months and the ONLY reason I ended my membership was I had lots of stamps I had yet to ink up and I thought I would save my money each month for other product. I still love my Unity stamps and I am still inking them up, even a little over a year after I ended my membership. And, I LOVE that now I can get Unity stamps at Archivers, including the Itty Bitty sets. Love. Onto my card for this month. I wanted to make a card for my wonderful hubby's birthday. I have such a hard time with masculine cards, which I think is pretty common. I ended up using the Curtain Call paper collection from Graphic 45, which is the same paper collection I used for the altered tray I did for Valentine's Day. It's not completely masculine, but it can be adapted for masculine cards, which is what I did here. I used this adorable pocket stamp from Unity and made a little tag to go in the pocket. I also added some hearts because I love my hubby so....he is one of the best gifts God has ever given me! Anyway, I hope you enjoy my submission and I hope you will play along!

Supplies Cardstock - Bazzil Basics Patterned Paper - Graphic 45 Ink - Stampin' Up! Stamps - Unity Stamp Co., Stampin' Up! Punches - Stampin' Up! Ribbon - Michael's Tag - Paper Reflections Brad - Stampin' Up! Distress Tool - Tim Holtz for Tonic

Jen's Sketch Challenge 03-11

2011-03-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

Time for another fantastic sketch by Jen del Muro. Our lives have been very insane lately and time I haven't had much time for crafting lately, so when I do sneak in a few moments or hours, those moments are treasured to me. Our priorities are right and we are doing what we need to do, but still I wish there were more hours in the day.

I find that when I do steal away a few moments, I make them count and make projects for specific events coming up. One of these days I will have time to just sit down and create but right now I don't have that luxury so when I sit down in my craft room, I make specific projects for specific people and that is ok!

I am a very blessed woman with some a-mazing friends! I made this card for my dear, sweet friend Leisha who I have known since High School. Leisha and I were friends in High School, but not super close. We always got along really well and admired each other, but we never developed one of those solid friendships.

Fast forward to a couple of years ago and we re-connected on Facebook. We started chatting over private messaging and then she met Jay and I at Disneyland with her kids on my birthday. Her kids had season passes and I got in free for my birthday, so they met us there and we all had a blast together! Ever since that day, Leisha and I have been very close. We have such a special bond and I love her with all my heart. She is in CA and I am now in CO, but thanks to Skype and free long-distance on our cell phones (and Facebook of course!) we are able to stay in contact. She is the most wonderful mother and friend and I have tremendous respect for her.

Supplies

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!

Ink - Stampin' Up!, Versamark

Embossing Powder - Stampabilities

Stamps - Unity (Image), Verve Stamps (Sentiment)

Brads - Making Memories

Nestabilities

Valentine Love (Cont'd)

2011-02-20T20:17:00.000-08:00

Here's the card I made for Nicole using that same collection. So fun!

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Stamps - Stampin' Up!
Ribbon - Stampin' Up!
Ink - Stampin' Up!

Valentine Love

2011-02-20T20:09:00.003-08:00

I made this simple little card for Kendall for Valentine's Day. I always try to find little gifts to give the girls for every holiday. Not that they need anything, but I like to just let them know throughout the year how special they are by giving them a handmade card and a small treat.

This year I found some cute little photo boxes that had a small bag of candy and a little stuffed animal in them. I realize the girls are 13 and 16 but they still like their stuffed animals. The gifts were small and inexpensive, but it's always fun to get something special to make an otherwise ordinary week a little less ordinary.

I made this card using some new product I got from Stampin' Up! I just love the colors on these papers and the stamps are adorable! I am really loving the new cling stamps and packaging that are now available. I still think there is nothing that can compare with stamping with a wood-mounted stamp, but they just take up too much space. As a result, I am only purchasing the stamps in the new packaging from SU now and they stamp just as well with the same precision and accuracy.

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Stamps - Stampin' Up!
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Border Punches - Stampin' Up!, Martha Stewart Crafts
Corner Rounder - We R Memory Keepers

Valentine Altered Frame

2011-02-20T19:19:00.000-08:00

This was a fun project for me! I have been eyeing these gorgeous frames by 7 Gypsies for months now but just never had occassion to create one until now. Since Jay spoiled me so for my birthday (still need to do a post on that....) I told him he was totally off the hook for Valentine's Day this year. Meaning, he didn't have to get me a thing and I would be fine with that! He didn't quite listen....he had roses in a gorgeous heart-shaped vase sent to me at work (which I loved and was completely surprised by) but since I had given him a pass this year, I didn't want to get him anything expense because then he would feel badly which is not what I intended at all!

So, I decided to give him a gift from the heart. I wanted to make this gift romantic, but without being too girly-girly. I happened upon this gorgeous new line from Graphic 45 called Curtain Call and knew it was perfect. It's filled with music and cinematic images and the colors are black and cream and it's the perfect balance of romance and masculinity.

I was really happy with the way the project turned out overall. I know when I get a few more of these under my belt they will look better and better, but for my first attempt, I was pretty happy with the results.

And, most imporatantly, I was able to bless my wonderful hubby who is ALWAYS a blessing to me!

I cut the frame for this image on black cardstock (Bazill) using my Cricut Sentimentals cartridge and I hand-painted these Prima roses using Ranger alcohol ink mixatives. I just placed a few drops onto my craft mat and then picked up the color using a paint brush. They are super shiny and absolutly stunning!

For this panel, I used an epoxy sticker from Cloud Nine Designs and took the Love and Heart chipboard shapes from Maya Road and painted them with some Red Pepper paint from Ranger and then sprayed them with some Graphite glimmer mist from Tattered Angels. The small tag is from the die-cut sheet that came with the collection. I added a small brad from Making Memories to the top of it.

On this panel, I took some trim from Making Memories and outlined the frame. I used Glossy Accents to adhere the trim because it dries so quickly and has such a strong hold. The tag was cut using my Cricut (the patterned paper is from the same Graphic 45 collection) and I just hand wrote a small message using a Prismacolor fine line marker.

On this panel, I cut another frame onto black cardstock (Bazill) and them took some black flowers (Kaiser Crafts) and topped them with smaller red flowers (Bazill) and finished them off with some decorative brads from Making Memories. The epoxy sticker at the bottom is from Cloud Nine Designs and I backed it with some Riding Hood Red cardstock from Stampin' Up! so that it would stand out.

I kept this panel rather simple. I cut out another frame using black cardstock with my Cricut and then finished it off with some beautiful Prisma mesh flowers.

And finally, I cut another frame on black cardstock using my Cricut then took some letter stickers from Making Memories for the J&S and then took a dimensional sticker from Jolee's Boutique that I colored with some Copic markers.

Some detail on the Prisma flowers I colored with my alcohol ink mixatives.

Jen's Sketch Challenge 02-11

2011-02-12T18:39:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!

The fabulous Jen Del Muro has another wonderful sketch challenge on her blog. This month, you have a chance to win a beautiful prize from Anita be Stampin. And, if you participate in the challenges every month for the entire year, you will be eligible to win a prize package worth over $200!!!! Go to Jen's blog for details.

For this month's sketch, I made a card for my amazing friend (more like a sister, really) Susan. Susan was my roommate for 9 years before Jay and I married. She was in our wedding and she is THE most incredible woman and friend I could ever ask for. She is truly a blessing from God. I just had the opportunity to spend the weekend with her when she flew out and surprised me for my 40th birthday. I can't even put into words what it meant to me. But, that is typical Susan. You can't outgive her and she just loves to give to others. And more important than anything, she has the most beautiful heart.

Being that Susan is so amazing, I thought it appropriate to use this sentiment stamp from Verve stamps. And it is true.....I strive to be more like my wonderful friend. I love you Susan!

Supplies
Cardstock - Papertrey Ink, Bazzil, Stampin' Up!
Patterned Paper - My Minds Eye
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Ribbon - Papertrey Ink
Flowers - Prima Marketing
Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist
Pearl - Basic Grey
We R Memory Keepers Corner Chomper
Tim Holtz Distress Tool

Jen's Sketch Challenge 01-11

2011-01-27T19:47:00.001-08:00

Well it's a new year and this is my first post of the year! I just celebrated my 40th birthday and had such an amazing time with my family and friends and felt so incredibly loved and adored. It was wonderful! I will do a post on that soon :).

This year, Jen is doing something a little different. Rather than a weekly sketch, she is doing one sketch per month. This will relieve her of having to come up with a sketch every week, and will give people a chance to play along that just don't have the time to do one per week. I absolutely love playing along and am confident I can make it through all 12 sketches this year! At least that is my goal. When I need a little inspiration in between, I can always go to some of her previous sketches or my favorite magazine - Papercrafts - where I find tons of inspiration from color combinations to sketches, to creative ways to use ribbon and buttons and other fun embelishments.

For this sketch I made a Valentine's Card. As much as I love making Christmas projects, it was fun to create a card for another holiday. And Valentine's cards are so much fun! How much do you love this stamp from CC Designs? Is she not the cutest thing? I colored her with Copic markers and I also added some Stickles to the "candy" hearts to give them some shimmer.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy.

Supplies

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Sentiment - Stamin' Up!, Hearts - Stampin' Up!, Image - CC Designs

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Border Punch, Circle Punches - Stampin' Up!

Spellbinders Dies

Copic Markers - Sorry, I didn't write down all the markers I used

Flowers - Prima e-Line

Glimmer Mist - Tattered Angels

Pearls - Basic Grey

Stickles - Ranger

Jen's Sketch Challenge 11-27-10

2010-11-28T16:23:00.000-08:00

Kendall is turning 16. I can't believe it. Yes, growing up is natural and she is supposed to grow and mature. Still, it's hard. I am sure it is for any parent. She was just 9 years old when God brought us together. She was shy and un-affectionate and tentative and quiet and kept to herself. She spent most of her time in her room by herself. Now she freely gives hugs. She has lots of friends. She loves to come out and socialize. We are close. She talks to me and shares what's going on in her life and with her friends and I am so thankful. I was her age not so long ago (ok it was a while ago, but it doesn't feel like it) and I was not nearly as open with my parents as she is with us. She is so grounded. She is an extremely hard worker in school and at home. She is honest. She is funny. She is sweet and kind and loves God. She amazes me and I am incredibly proud of her.

But she's turning 16. And, I don't know how much longer she will want to be close. She will get a job and a boyfriend and want to spend ALL of her time with her friends. It's coming, I know it is. And all I can do is hope that what we have today, what we have provided in guidance and support will stay with her as she goes out into the world and is confronted with challenges and temptations and that she will continue to do the right thing. I'm very confident she will, but it's still scary. I suppose this feeling is very typical for parents, but it's new to me.

But I know that we have given her our all and loved her completely and provided guidance and that's all we can do. As scary as it is to watch her grow up, it is also beautiful to see the way she has blossomed. She has such strength of character and has taught us just as much (if not more) than we taught her. She will be ok.....I just know she will!

Anyway, here's a card I made for our little rocker chick for her birthday. I had some gorgeous rub-ons that I was going to use on this card. I got them for 50% off at Archiver's and thought I was getting such a bargain. Until I tried to use them. Apparently they were 50% off because they had been sitting forever and WOULD NOT come off of the backer sheet. I tried and tried and tried and eventually had to give up. They are now in my garbage can. So sad.....but, I was very happy to find this awesome guitar on my Potpourri Basket Cricut cartridge. Is it not the cutest? I absolutely love it! I couldn't find the angel wings that were also on the rub-on pack that I planned to use, but I found these great stars on the same cartridge and some patterned paper that I had in my stash and I think it's still an appropriate rocker-chick card. Because, flowers and hearts and lace will not do for this unique girl we have. She is special in every way!

I used Jen's sketch from yesterday for this card. I took a little bit of liberty with it and moved the small panel to the left instead of the right. I should have angled the guitar in the other direction to fit the panel in the right spot, but I am happy with the way it turned out. That's the great thing about these sketches. You can make small modifications and make them your own, but still use the primary design Jen provided. I love it!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Unknown (got a while back from Tuesday Morning)

Cardstock - The Paper Co

Ribbon - Offray

Buttons - Unknown

Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster Designs

Spellbinders Dies

Cricut - Potpourri Basket Cartridge

Stamp - Hero Arts

Punches - Stampin' Up!

Rhinestones - K & Co.

Jen's Sketch Challenge 11-20-10

2010-11-28T16:10:00.000-08:00

Time for another one of Jen's fantabular (Jay made that word up and I have adopted it...because I like it) sketch challenges! It seems like every week lately I have a card to make for a purpose, instead of just doing projects for fun. This is fine, but I do enjoy just creating to create and hope I can get back to that point sometime soon! I am grateful that Jen provides these wonderful challenges for me every week though. I have a jumping off point and when I'm in the midst of several projects at once, it helps to have somewhere to begin when I'm making a card.

This week, I made a birthday card for my wonderful, sweet, amazing friend Carrie's 40th birthday. Carrie and I have been friends since we were 18 or 19, so over half of our lives now. Carrie was dating a guy that I had dated previously and he introduced us. They didn't last, but Carrie and my relationship did and we have been friends ever since. She is so kind and generous and artistic and funny and makes me so happy. She lives in CA so I don't see her much, but I love her just the same and look forward to every moment we have together.

Since Carrie loves purses and has loads of them, I thought it appropriate to put a purse on her card. I also added some bling (since Carrie is the queen of accessories) and some Glossy Accents to make it extra special.

Enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey

Cardstock - The Paper Company, Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Unity Stamp Co (purse), Stampin' Up! (sentiment)

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Cricut Cartridge - Storybook (frames)

Border Punch - Stampin' Up!

Flower - Kaiser Crafts

Button - Basic Grey

Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster Designs

Glossy Accents - Ranger Industries

Orange Rhinestones - Mark Richards

Copic Markers

Jen's Sketch Challenge 10-30-10

2010-11-14T15:28:00.001-08:00

I'm very late posting on this card for Jen's SFYTT back on 10/30/10. I do have a good excuse this time. I made this card for my mom's birthday and wanted to wait until the package was delivered before posting a picture of the card so as not to ruin the surprise.

I had lots of fun with this butterfly. My friend Stephanie gave me this wood mountain butterfly stamp just because. Just because she knows how much I love butterflies and wanted to make me smile and she did! I was at a mutual friend's birthday party and Stephanie presented her with a gorgeous pointsetta stamp and told me she had a gift for me as well. It was completely unexpected, but very much appreciated! I had lots of fun coloring the butterfly with my Copics. I also love the way the tags turned out that I cut using my Cricut. Once again, Cricut to the rescue!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Webster's Pages

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Bazzil, Neenah (for Copic coloring)

Stamps - Creative Impressions (Butterfly), Stampin' Up! (Sentiment)

Cricut Cartridge - Sentimentals

Edge Punch - Stampin' Up!

Corner Punch - We R Memory Keepers

Flower - Prima Marketing

Glimmer Mist - Tattered Angels

Ink - Stampin' Up!, Tsukineko

Pearls - Kaiser Crafts

Copic Markers - YR02, YT87, Y13, C1

Jen's Sketch Challenge 11-13-10

2010-11-14T15:16:00.000-08:00

Time for another fantastic sketch by Jen Del Muro! This week is another sponsored sketch, so be sure to stop by Jen's blog and play along. I find my time so limited lately that I rarely end up making a card aside from the weekly sketches, so I really appreciate having at least one project per week and absolutely love the challenge that a sketch provides.

I had a couple of friends over yesterday for a crafting day! We had such a wonderful time. I made a pot of chili in the crockpot and some cornbread muffins and the girls came over at around 11:00 and were here until 6:00. We played Christmas music and holed up in my scrap room and worked on Christmas projects all day. I also set aside time to make a birthday card with this week's sketch for a friend from work.

I have to tell you that I am absolutely loving this paper from Crate paper. The yellow and turqoise combination is so beautiful. I would probably not normally put these two colors together, but they compliment each other so well. I also love the hat on the stand. I can't remember life before my Cricut ;).

Anyway, hope you enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Crate Paper

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Brads - Stampin' Up!

Stamp - Stampin' Up!

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Flowers - Prima Marketing

Cricut Cartridge - Heritage

Nestabilities Die (Oval)

Word Punch - Stampin' Up!

Snowy Christmas

2010-11-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

I made another Christmas card last week. Unfortunately, this one took me like 5 days! I just wasn't feeling the mojo and ended up re-doing the bottom panel. I started off with the rafia ribbon tied in a bow and a gigantic red button on top (to the left) with no twine and just kept staring at it, unhappy and unable to move foward, so I took the panel off and added the rafia with a criss-cross and then cut a snowflake on my Cricut and added a smaller red button with twine and was much happier with the results and found that the rest of the card came together rather quickly after that. The red around the top panel is dauber paint and you can't tell in the photo, but you can sort of see through it in parts, which gives it kind of a rustic look.

I love that little snowman also. I paper pieced his scarf and the band around his cap and I think he looks rather dapper. I am definitely getting into the Christmas spirit!

Next up....shopping.

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Jillibean Soup, Little Yellow Bicycle
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, The Paper Company, Neenah
Rafia Ribbon - Paper Reflections
Twine - Stampin' Up!
Button - Basic Grey
Stamp - Verve Stamps (Snowman), Stampin' Up! (sentiment)
Ink - Tsukineko, Stampin' Up!
Nestabilities Dies
Cricut - Joys of Christmas Cartridge
Copic Markers - YR04, YR18, 100, C1

Jen's Sketch Challenge 10-23-10

2010-10-24T15:58:00.001-07:00

**Edited**

I added the snowflake brads and red Stickles to the wreath. I like this card so much better now!

Even though Christmas is still two months away, in the crafting world, time is quickly running out! I certanly am in no rush to get to December 25th (or for sonow, for that matter), but I do have to plan ahead when it comes to projects. I already have a couple of projects in the works that I'm giving away as gifts and I have about 9 individual cards that I need to create and have ready to be mailed and delivered by the big day. I am already feeling a little behind.....we always seem to have something going on and sitting down and creating is sort of last on the list. Things like laundry, homework, calling family, cooking, oh yes, that job thingy....all take priority. And that's ok. That's how it should be. Still, I wish there were just a couple more hours in the day some days.

I decided to use Jen's sketch this week to make another Christmas card. I used another adorable digi stamp from CC Designs. I absolutely adore these stamps! And, after I fiinished a lengthly argument with my printer (it did not want me to print on a paper size less than 8.5x11 but you'll be happy to know that I won), I had lots of fun coloring the design with my Copics. I popped in a movie last night (Valentine's Day.....sort of a disappointment) and sat and colored while my hubby played a video game on his computer and Kendall went and got the daylights scared out of her at a local haunted museum.

I also used my Copics to color the Prima flower and then spritzed it with Pearl Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist. You can't see in the photo very well, but the flower sparkles and the coloring is so rich. I absolutely love it.

So, winter may come with Christmas but I am also looking forward to:

Our 5 year wedding anniversary
Making more fun crafting projects for my wonderful family
Eggnog Lattes from Starbuck's
It's a Wonderful Life, The Nativity Story, The Bells of St. Mary's, Charlie Brown Christmas, The Grinch
Mom's peanut brittle
Winter Wonderland at church
Remembering that day so long ago that my Savior was born in such a humble manner
Lights, oh so very many lights
The smell of pine
Snuggling up by a warm fireSupplies

Patterned Paper - Bo Bunny

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Michael's

Stamps - Digi Stamp (CC Designs), Background Stamp (Hero Arts), Sentiment ( Studio G)

Copics - E00, E02, E25, E27, E29, B39, G28, YG97, R39, R46, R89. RV11, 100, 0

Ribbon - Stampin' Up!

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Nestabilities Dies

Corner Punch - We R Memory Keepers

Flower - Prima Marketing

Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist

Jen's Sketch Challenge 10-16-10

2010-10-18T18:53:00.001-07:00

For Jen's sketch challenge this week, I had a little more fun with my Cricut. In fact, I've been having so much fun with it that I had to change the blade for the first time. I was starting to get tears in my paper when cutting and still had some tearing even after I changed the blade, but after I slowed down the cutting speed and changed the blade depth the problem was solved. I also had my paper slip a little bit so it might be time to start using a new cutting mat. I didn't realize just how much I've been enjoying that machine!

My dear friend Nancy just announced she is pregnant (with baby #3!) and I wanted to make a congratulations card for her and her husband. This isn't there first, but I believe EVERY baby (both the born and the unborn) are worth celebrating and since I can't be in California to celebrate with her, I made a card to mail off to her.

Since she's newly pregnant, we don't know the baby's gender yet, so I used a lot of different pastels on the card. For whatever reason, I feel like this one might be a girl, but I don't trust myself anymore. Up until my friend Kim's first pregnancy I had NEVER been wrong - not once on guessing a baby's gender but I seem to have lost my mojo. Whether a girl or a boy, we will love this baby....still since I have announced my guess here on this blog, I am not so secretly hoping it's a girl. I just like to be right :).

Oh! I used the Fun Flock again on the pom-pom on the night cap. I got a little more to stick this time than the last, but it's still not very much. I am still trying to figure out what the trick is ther, but I love the texture of that stuff so I am going to continue to try.

Anyway, enjoy....

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Little Yellow Bicycle

Cardstock - Yellow (Unknown), Green, Blue, Pink, White (Stampin' Up!)

Stamps - Verve Stamps

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Embossing Folder - Provo Craft

Cricut Cartridges - Storybook, Potpourri Basket

Buttons - Basic Grey

Pearls - Kaiser Crafts

Ribbon - Portafolia

Fun Flock

Flower - Prima Marketing

Glimmer Mist - Tattered Angels

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-10T16:15:00.001-07:00

I made this fun card using some adorable Halloween paper from Stampin' Up! I believe it's last year's line, but it's new to me and I absolutely love it! It's got lots of really intriquate designs on it and it isn't corny. I am more drawn to elegant than I am to corny. It's just my style, which is why I like this paper so much. It's still a little bit spooky, but is very elegant at the same time and I love that! I also really like the colors. A lot!

This is another card that I did in two sittings. In the first sitting, I thought I had finished the card, but it was missing something. On the green scalloped circle, it just looked too simple with the frame and the scull and crossbones. I thought about the design overnight and then stared at it again in the morning and decided it needed some splattered paint on it to make it a little darker. My original plan was to take a toothpick and flick paint onto the image, but the paint was too thick so I ended up just smearing it around with the toothpick. I like the look. I think it's just what this card needed.

Happy Halloween!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!

Cardstock - The Paper Company, Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Inkadinkadoo (Scull and Crossbones), Endless Creations (Frame)

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Paint - Claudine Hellmuth Studio

Epoxy Stickers - Making Memories

Ribbon - Stampin' Up!

Flower - Kaiser Crafts

Button - Basic Grey

Scalloped Circle Punch - Marvy

Jen's Sketch Challenge 10-09-10

2010-10-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

Time for another one of Jen's fantastic sketches! For this week's card, I wanted to make a birthday card for my stepdaughter Nicole and her favorite color combination is pink and black, so I chose this bright pink paper from Basic Grey (left over papers from a mini album I did) and combined it with black cardstock. I also had a chance to use this adorable digi stamp from CC Designs. These kids are just too cute for words! And, they are a blast to color with Copic markers. I also used some Fun Flock on the bottom of her dress, but I obviously need more practice because hardly any stuck to the paper. I used a glue pen (Tombow) and I think 1) I didn't put enough glue down and 2) I didn't press the flock into the glue before I flicked the excess off of the card. Next time, I think I will use the Tombow Mono Multi Glue instead. I am excited to use some more of that Fun Flock for Christmas and winter cards though, that stuff has the best texture and some really great sparkle to it. Such fun.....

I am finding lately on the projects that I make I end up being happier with the results if I make them in at least two settings. When I try to complete an entire project in just one setting, I find that they don't have as many details and my creativity isn't stretched as much as if I start the project, walk away, think it over some more and then come back to it either late thate day/evening, or the next day.

Unfortunately for me, for some reason, the creative part of my brain really peaks late at night. If I could do all of my papercrafting after midnight, I think I would come up with some amazing work, but a girl needs her sleep :).

Anyway, enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey

Cardstock - The Paper Company, Papertrey Ink, Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Digi Stamp (CC Designs), Background Stamp (Unity), Sentiment (Stampin' up!)

Ink - Stampin' Up!, Papertrey Ink

Ribbon - Papertrey Ink

Button - Papertrey Ink

Flower - Kaiser Crafts

Copic Markers - RV29, RV69, RV93, E00, E02, E25, E27, E33. 100, Colorless Blender Pen

Stampers Floss - Karen Foster

Spellbinders Dies

Edge Punch - Stampin' Up!

Scalloped Square Punch - Stampin' Up!

Stickles - Ranger

Fun Flock - Stampendous

Jen's Sketch Challenge 10-02-10

2010-10-03T15:32:00.001-07:00

For this week's sketch challenge on Jen Del Muro's blog, I used some absolutely adorable travel-themed paper that I got from Stampin' Up! a while back. It was from the summer mini catalog and I absolutely love the colors. I purchased the paper for scrapbooking, but I decided to try using it for a card. I used my Cricut to cut out that adorable tag and when you swing it open, there is an adorable image behind it. I just attached the tag with a brad and then cut out a square piece of cardstock, stamped the truck image onto it, and then rounded the corners so that it would fit behind the tag. The stamps are all Tim Holtz and are of incredible quality and I absolutely love the artistry! Anyway, if you haven't done so already, stop by Jen's blog and play along.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Michael's

Ribbon - American Crafts

Stamps - Tim Holtz for Stampers Anonymous

Ink - Stampin' Up!, Ranger

Emobssing Powder - Ranger Distress Embossing Powder

Punches - Martha Stewart Crafts (Border), We R Memor Keepers (Corner Rounder)

Cricut Cartridges - Sentimentals (Stamp Border, Tag), Heritage (Luggage)

In Memory

2010-09-19T18:13:00.001-07:00

**Edited** - I felt the left side of the card needed a little something so I added some bling from ZVA. I think it's just what this card needed.

My dear, sweet, wonderful great-aunt Helen passed away a couple of weeks ago. Aunt Helen lost her husband Al several years ago and her mind was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Because of this, she did not have any real quality of life in her later years and it's a blessing that she is now home with her heavenly father and once again reunited with her wonderful husband.

Aunt Helen and Uncle Al were always so good to me and my family. They were loving and funny and kind. They were incredibly generous with hugs and kisses and laughter. Aunt Helen was also an amazing cook! I remember going to visit at the house and she made these beautiful homemade breadsticks and ginger cookies. Everything looked as good as it tasted.

I made this card for Aunt Helen and Uncle Al's son Keith and his wife Katie and their daughter Natalie. They are such a dear, sweet family and I know that they are happy for Aunt Helen that her suffering on earth has come to an end, but still miss her dearly. Keith was the son that Aunt Helen and Uncle Al always dreamed of and he was the apple of their eyes. The love in that family was evident every moment that you spent with them.

Aunt Helen, I know you weren't really here over the last few years, but still you are missed terribly. I look forward to seeing you again one day in heaven. Until then, you will remain in my thoughts. I love you!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Webster's Pages

Cardstock - The Paper Company

Ribbon - Unknown

Cricut Cartridge - Heritage

Hardware - Making Memories

Spellbinders Dies

Edge Punch - Stampin' Up!

Corner Punch - We R Memory Keepers

Jen's Sketch Challenge 09-18-10

2010-09-19T17:57:00.000-07:00

For Jen's SFYTT this week, I broke out some Halloween patterned paper from Stampin' Up! that I got on clearance a few months ago. I thought this paper was absolutely adorable when it first came out, but I am glad I waited to order it because I got it for a great price, and even though it's not new to the scene, it's new to me! I also got to use a stamp set that my dear friend Leslie gave me about a year and a half ago. It's from a retired stamp set from SU, but again...new to me :).

We don't make a big deal of Halloween around here, but I do like to make cards for the girls and love breaking out supplies that I don't get to use very often.

I hope you enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, The Paper Company

Stamps - Stampin' Up!, Martha Steward Crafts

Epoxy Sticker (Skull) - Making Memories

Acrylic Tag Sticker - Making Memories

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Ribbon - American Crafts

Gemstones - Little Yellow Bicycle

Edge Punch - Martha Stewart Crafts

Corner Punch - We R Memory Keepers

Tag Punch - EK Success

Fun with the Cricut!

2010-09-12T15:15:00.001-07:00

I am having so much fun with my Cricut! I actually made this card for a friend's birthday and showed it to my friend Carrie at work (we share projects with each other all the time) and she loved it so much that she took a picture of it and kept coming back into my office and commenting on it that I had to give it to her instead. I made a different card for her birthday, but decided that since she loved this card so much, she should have it. So, essentially, Carrie picked out her own birthday card ;).

This card was a lot of fun to make. Once again, I used a collection from Basic Grey. I used the Oliver collection on this card, which was designed for little boys, but I have made a couple of feminine cards with it now and I think it's extremely versatile.

I used the Sentimentals cartridge to build the owl using coordinating cardstock and made him the focal point since he is so extraordinary that he demands attention!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey

Cardstock - Bazzil, Stampin' Up!

Uniball Signo White Gel Pen

Spellbinders Die - Scalloped Oval

Sizzix Die - Top Notz Made for Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Stampin' Up - Frame and Sentiment

Flower - Bazzil

Brad - Basic Grey

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Corner Rounder - We R Memory Keepers

Jen's Sketch Challenge 09-11-10

2010-09-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

Let me just say this. I am not ready for Christmas. I am not ready for cold and snow. I am still enjoying the warmth of the sunshine and the scents of summer. But, I know that it's coming. It's around the corner and I am going to have to get used to fuzzy socks and thick sweaters and scarfs and having a dirty car.

The only good thing about winter coming is Christmas. I love December. December 17th is our wedding anniversary and Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year. I love having the house decorated and baking cookies and singing Christmas carols and buying gifts for the people I love and celebrating the birth of our Savior.

I also love making Christmas craft projects. The papers are all so very delightful and sweet. Last year I didn't get around to making indvidual Christmas cards for the family and am determined that this year I am going to make individual, handmade cards for immediate family members. In order to accomplish this goal, I must get started early!!!!

So, I took Jen's sketch this week and used Basic Grey's new Jovial collection to make my first Christmas card for 2010. I think this collection is SO beautiful! I love the blue-greens mixed in with the traditional rich reds and forest greens. There are lots of poinsettas and snowflakes and beautiful plaids. Basic Grey continues collection after collection to push the bar higher and higher. This is one of my favorite Christmas collections to date!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey (Jovial collection)

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Embossing Folder - Cuttlebug

Stamps - Verve (Snowflake Border), Inkadinkadoo (Sentiment)

Ink - Stampin' Up!, Clearsnap

Hardware - Snowflake Brads (Unknown), Frame, Brads (Unknown)

Dimensional Sticker - Basic Grey

Cricut Cartridge - Christmas Village

Stickles

Spellbinders Dies - Oval, Scalloped Oval

Jen's Sketch Challenge 08-28-10

2010-08-29T14:27:00.000-07:00

I love all of Jen's sketches, but this one I really, really like! The layout provides endless possiblities and I just had so much fun creating with this one.

I decided to use my Cricut again, since I just can't get enough of it! I am finding it is pretty easy to use, just as long as I stick with heavyweight cardstock. I am a little intimidated to try thinner patterned paper with it. My mat isn't quite as sticky as it was, but I still have to use my spatula to pry pieces off of it and I'm afraid I'd tear up anything other than CS.

So, for now I am using it to cut cardstock and just love it! I used the Storybook cartridge to cut the flowers and leaves for this piece. After I finished it, I decided the colors are very Christmas-y (it's my blog, I can make up words if I want to) and although that was not my intent, I am now in he mood for making Christmas projects. I just ordered the new Christmas Village Cricut cartridge and am looking forward to playing! It has nativity pieces....delightful~

Anyway, hope you enjoy.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Unknown (got in a huge pack from Costco a couple of years ago and did not save the packaging)

CS - Stampin' Up!

Cricut Cartridge - Storybook

Stamps - Stampin' Up! (sentiment), Hero Arts (Background stamp)

Punch - EK Success Label Punch

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Pearls - K&Co.

Jen's Sketch Challenge 08-21-10

2010-08-27T21:07:00.000-07:00

Well, big news....I got a Cricut! It was totally a gift from God, I just know it was. I was looking at the Cricut Expressions and saw the $400 price tag on the machine and then saw the $70 price tag on the cartridges and had decided it wasn't something I would invest in right now. I was considerig putting money aside each month and saving up for one, but it really wasn't a huge priority. I just started investing in Copics and felt like using dies in my Cuttlebug would be just fine for now.

Then my friend Carrie at work comes in one day and tells me I'm getting a Cricut. What???? She was bidding on machines on eBay and accidentally bid on a Cricut personal cutting machine and she wanted the Expression, so she was giving me the personal machine. Of course, I could not accept it for free, so I offered to buy it from her. She got it for $100 and it came with a cartridge that she wanted, so she took the cartridge and I paid her $75 for the machine. So, I got a Cricut for $75!!!! It's brand-new and I think the size will work just fine for my needs, since I am primarily a card-maker.

I also found some cartridges for great deals online. I made this adorable tea set using the Heritage cartidge. I hand-stamped it with a damask stamp from Unity to give it a little added interest. I am still learning to use my machine (and will be learning for years), but thanks to all of the great tutorials on You Tube, I don't feel like I have to start from scratch!

Jen, thank you for yet another great sketch.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Making Memories
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Stamp - Unity Stamp Co. (Damask), Stampin' Up! (Sentiment)
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Cricut Cartridge - Heritage
Die Cutting Machine - Provo Craft
Punches - Marvy Uchida (Large Scallop Circle), Stampin' Up! (Border, Mini Hearts, Word Punch), Corner Punch (We R Memory Keepers)
Flower - Prima Marketing
Glimmer Mist - Tattered Angels
Gemstones - Kaiser Crafts

Jen's Sketch Challenge 08-14-10

2010-08-15T16:12:00.000-07:00

For this week's sketch for Jen's SFYTT, I used a Sugarplums CC Designs digi stamp. These are a new discovery for me and I absolutely LOVE them! They are the cutest kids and they totally remind me of Precious Moments figurines that I had growing up. I still have a few that my grandmother gave me and they are so sweet. I think that's partly why I am so drawn to these Sugarplums....aside from the fact that they are so stinken cute!

I also got another chance to use my Copics. I have once again fallen in love with coloring. There are some things that never get old, no matter what your age:

Long talks with mom
Afternoon naps (in fact, these get better with age)
Ice cream
Disney movies
Sand castles
Coloring
Laughter between sisters (if you're lucky enough to have one)
Dancing
Staying up way past your bedtime

In our busy lives, it' so important to appreciate the little things that bring us joy. Making this card brought me joy. I hope it does the same for you!

Supplies

Cardstock - The Paper Company, Neenah

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey (Ambrosia Collection)

Digi Stamp - CC Designs

Frame Border, Sentiment Stamps - Stampin' Up!

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Felt Ribbon - Creative Imaginations

Gemstones - Michaels

Copics - YR04, YR24, Y32, RV93, R08, R27, YG95, YG97, E00, E02, E25, E27, E33, C3, C5, B100, Colorless Blender

Punches - Large Oval Punch - Stampin' Up!

HP6500 Printer

Jen's Sketch Challenge 08-07-10

2010-08-11T18:33:00.001-07:00

Can you believe it? I'm actually on time with my card for Jen's sketch for you to try this week. Of course, this week there is no sponsor, but I never play with Jen's sketches because of the sponsors, I play because they are so amazing and I always have fun challenging myself to find creative ways to incorporate all of the design elements into my design.

This week I made a card that can be for a birthday or for any special day (graduation, success on a test, promotion.) I used neutral colors and although I have been drawn to really bright, fun patterns lately, I was really happy with the way this card turned out.

I used lots and lots of punches and my new Deco Corner Chomper from Making Memories. Love it! Hope you enjoy.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Jillibean Soup

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Unity (border frame), Hero Arts (sentiment), Stampin' Up! (small flower)

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Button - Jillibean Soup

Ribbon - Stampin' Up!

Punches - Martha Stewart Crafts (border), Large Scallop Circle (Marvy Uchida), Large Circle (Marvy Uchida), Small Scallop Circle (Stampin' Up!), Medium Circle (Stampin' Up!) Mini Circle (EK Success), Making Memories Corner Chomper

Jen's Sketch Challenge 07-24-10

2010-08-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

Time for another one of Jen's wonderful sketches! This was a fun one for me, because it was a little different from most and ... and ... I got another opportunity to use my Copics! I can't express how much fun I am having with those little gems. I can't believe they way they color. It is a-mazing!!!! I also got a chance to use my new Verve stamps that I purchased during the fund raise for Susan Lillies. I heart them.....they remind me of California. Anyway, hope you enjoy.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Papertrey Ink, Stampin' Up!
Cardstock - Papertrey Ink, Stampin' Up!, Neenah
Ink - Momento
Stamps - Verve Stamps, Stampin' Up!
Copics - YG97, BG15. BG72, Y13, Y15, Colorless Blender
Buttons - Basic Grey
Word Punch - Stampin' Up!
Corner Chomper - We R Memory Keepers
Glitter - Stampendous

Jen's Sketch Challenge 05-22-10

2010-07-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

Getting caught up on the blog tonight! Sitting here watching The Bachelorette (absolutely a total waste of time, but alas, still watching)....with my laptop on a TV try and mutli-tasking.

This is actually a Father's Day card that I made at the beginning of June for my Dad (D1) and used Jen's sketch from 06-08-10.

I was incredibly sad to hear that the card accidentally got tossed with the box the gift came in because 1) I worked really hard designing the right card for dad and 2) he was initially so disappointed that I didn't include a card with his gift. We talked and he knows I did include a card and I promised him I will make another one.

Fortunately, he never has to question my love, no matter what comes in a box! This was our 2nd Father's day apart since we moved to CO, so it was difficult, but we talked on the phone and we got to spend a glorious week together at the beginning of May.

I love you Daddy!

So, onto the card....I used the Graphic 45 Proper Gentleman collection and how much do I love this gorgeous paper? I also used the typewriter stamps from EK Success, which are perfect for this old-fashioned card. LOVE it! I will be using those a lot more with some other Graphic 45 collections. They are so artful and make me want to watch old Marilyn Monroe movies and walk the boardwalk.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Graphic 45

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - EK Success

Letter Stickers - American Crafts

Paint - Ranger Industries (Sponge Dauber, Perfect Pearls)

Ribbon - Papertrey Ink

Hardware - Tim Holtz

Ink - Stampin' Up!, Ranger Industries

Distress Tool - Tonic

Border Punch - Stampin' Up!

Jen's Sketch Challenge 06-19-10

2010-07-12T19:36:00.000-07:00

Once again with the kidlets getting bigger - our wonderful nephew Jason just turned 3. He's the size of a 5 year old and has the energy of 3 kids and is incredibly smart. We think it's cute - Mommy and Daddy probably don't find it cute all the time ;). As his Aunt and Uncle, we're entitled to find things cute that might not be so cute 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But, he's a loving big brother and never afraid to give hugs and kisses and has a huge smile that lights up the room.

I made this card using one of Jen's sketches several weeks back. I'm just a little late in getting the card uploaded.

I was very happy with the way the card turned out, with the exception of the goof-up on the liquid pearls. This was my first time using liquid pearls and discovered applying them properly takes a bit of practice. The little goof-up aside, I love the color combination and being that Jason loves giraffes, I think the giraffe stamp I chose is perfect for this card.

We love you big boy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - DCWV

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Image (Unit), Sentiment (Stampin' Up!)

Buttons - Unknown

Ribbon - Stampin' Up!

Liquid Pearls - Ranger Industries

It's Your Birthday Chris!

2010-07-12T19:25:00.000-07:00

Somehow, our adorable nephew Christopher up and got a year old! The nerve of him. I can't tell you how many lectures I have given to my one precious niece and 4 amazing nephews and they don't listen. Not a one of them! All of them continue to grow up and lose their teeth and start saying words correctly and get too big to hold (although I still make Chrissi who is turning 11 sit on my lap.) I know it's part of life and it's healthy for them to grow, but we spend entirely too much time apart and every time they have a birthday or I see a picture with another tooth missing, I am reminded of everything I missed out on and I get sad. I want to be there for every moment! I want to hear every word, witness every milestone, and share every memory.

I know that's impossible, so I will have to settle for mobile photos and FB updates and shipping packages in the mail and the occassional, precious visits no matter how few and far between. Thank God for the webcam!

Our "newest" nephew Christopher is turning one. It's hard to believe that little guy is on his way to walking and talking and is growing more and more adorable every day.

I made this card using the BG Oliver collection (a new fav) to ship to him with his birthday gift. We'd love to be able to give it to him in person, but we'll have to settle for delivery by our friend the Post Man and hear giggles on the phone.

We love ou Chris and think you get more adorable ever day!

Supplies
Patterned Paper - Basic Grey (Oliver Collection)
Image Stamps (Plane, Banner) - Unity
Sentiment Stamp - American Crafts
Ink - Stampin' Up! (Riding Hood Red)
Buttons - Basic Grey

Jen's Sketch Challenge 07-10-10

2010-07-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

Time for another amazing sketch challenge by the talented Jen Del Muro. I just recently started using Copic markers and this was my first card using an element that I colored with my new markers. I took a class a little over a month ago at my local scrap store and have been practicing coloring and trying to build up my collection and finally decided to use one of the images on a card. I made this card for my sweet little Punkin (my niece Chrissi) for her 11th birthday. Chrissi has beautiful strawberry blonde hair and blue eyes but since I don't have markers in the correct colors to make strawberry blonde hair, this little punk girl is a brunette with green eyes to match her stylish outfit.

I must admit, I'm proud of the way the image turned out. I know that when I look back on this image in a year or two, I will see many, many flaws as my skills develop, but I think she turned out pretty cute, considering how little experience I have.

I also used the new Oliver collection from Basic Grey (love it) and was happy to be able to make a feminine card with the collection, even though it was designed for little boys.

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey (Oliver Collection)

Digi Stamp - The Greeting Farm

Flowers - Prima Marketing (e-line) - didn't have any red glimmer mist, so I sponged Riding Hood Red ink from SU! on them and then spritzed with Pearl glimmer mist from Tattered Angels

Brads - Basic Grey

Sentiment Stamp - American Crafts

Cardstock - Neenah Solar White

Copic Markers - E0000, E02, E25, E33, E09, B39, G28, C3, Colorless Blender Pen

Jen's Sketch Challenge 04-17-10

2010-07-05T19:19:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun doing this challenge by Jen Del Muro. I always have fun making cards for little ones an dI used this sketch to make a card for my nephew Samuel for his 7th birthday. He's such a wonderful little boy and I can't believe he's already 7 years old! He is extremely caring and sensitive and he loves baseball and laughter and having his family around him. It's hard to be away from him, but he's in my thoughts and in my heart at all times.

I love you Sam the man!

Supplies

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Patterned Paper - DCWV

Rub-On - DCWV

Stamps - Stampin' Up!, Unity

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Distress Ink - Stampendous

Mother's Day Mini Album - Mom

2010-07-05T19:03:00.001-07:00

I made this mini album and coordinating card for my mom using Bo Bunny's Jazmine collection. I absolutely love this collection and it is so HER! Truth be told, after finishing this album and card, I am not going to be ready to use it again for a while, but I am going to hang onto all of the leftover papers and elements for future use because I know I will want to break it out again.

This was my very first mini album and I had so much fun making it that I made one for my step mom and one for my mother-in-law. I thoroughly enjoyed the process and most of all seeing the smiles on their faces. That is the beautiful thing about papercrafting....we get to bring smiles to people's faces doing what we love!

Jen's Sketch Challenge 04-10-10

2010-07-05T18:51:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Sorry for the long pause between posts. I have been spending a lot of time creating and enjoying family time and spending less time updating my blog. Sometimes the pressure of having to post everything takes away the joy of the actual moment. First of all, I made 3 mini albums for Mother's Day (I will post the others here soon) and making lots of cards in between. Additionally, my Dad & Val were here for a fantastic one week visit where we were on the go constantly, but had a wonderful time and then Nicole was here for a month so we spent lots of family time.

At last, things have slowed down a bit and I feel like I can get caught up on everything else that got neglected.

So, to start off, here's a card from Jen's April 10 SKFYTT. I made this card back in April, just didn't get around to posting it until now.

I made this card for my sister-in-law for her birthday. She is absolutely amazing (love you Lisa!) and was fortunate enough to be able to give it to a mutual friend to be hand delivered. Not quite the same as delivering it myself, but I'll take what I can get ;).

Supplies

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Papertrey Ink

Patterned Paper - Papertrey Ink

Stamps - Unity, Verve Stamps

Ink - Stampin' Up!, Papertrey Ink

Embossing Folder - Cuttlebug

Ribbon - Papertrey Ink

Button - Papertrey Ink

Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster

Mother's Day Mini Album

2010-05-16T18:53:00.001-07:00

I made my second mini album as a gift for Valerie for Mother's Day. I think I am now hooked on mini albums! I made one for my mom also (will upload that one soon) and am having such a blast making them. Most of the supplies for this album were from the Ambrosia collection from Basic Grey. It's an older collection, but is still available at Two Peas. The album is a blackboard album from Cosmo Cricket that I won in a blog candy giveaway on Jennifer McGuire's blog. All photos are edited using Adobe Photoshop Elements 8.0.

Supplies
Patterned Paper, Sticker Border, Button - Basic Grey
Alphabet Stickers - American Crafts
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster
Key - K&Co.
Fibers - Unknown
Supplies
Patterned Paper, Button - Basic Grey
Cardstock, Ink - Stampin' Up!
Stamps - Unity
Flower - Kaiser Crafts
Supplies
Patterned Paper, Stickers, Buttons - Basic Grey
Stamp - Stampin' Up!
Ink - Papertrey Ink.
Ribbon - Bo Bunny
Supplies
Patterned Paper, Stickers, Button - Basic Grey
Cardstock, Ink - Stampin' Up!
Stamp - Unity
Flower - Kaiser Crafts
Epoxy Stick - Cloud 9
Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster
Supplies
Patterned Paper, Sticker Border - Basic Grey
Cardstock, Ink - Stampin' Up!
Stamp - Fancy Pants Designs. Stampin' Up! (Sentiment)
Gemstones - Mark Richards
Butterfly Punch - Martha Stewart
Patterned Paper, Stickers - Basic Grey
Cardstock, Stamp, Embossing Powder - Stampin' Up!
Chipboard Frame - Maya Road
Black Paint - Claudine Hellmuth

Patterned Paper, Sticker, Button - Basic Grey
Cardstock, Ink, Eyelet, Ribbon - Stampin' Up!
Stamps - Unity, Fancy Pants Designs
Epoxy Sticker - Cloud 9
Tag - Paper Reflections
Gelpen - Uniball Signo

Supplies
Patterned Paper, Stickers, Button - Basic Grey

Stamp - Hero Arts

Cardstock, Ink - Stampin' Up!

Flower - Kaiser Crafts

Scrapper's Floss - Karen Foster

Supplies

Patterned Paper, Sticker Border, Stickers, Button - Basic Grey

Stamp - Unity

Cardstock, Ink - Stampin' Up!

Supplies

Patterned Paper, Stickers, Letter Stickers - Basic Grey

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Large Scalloped Die - Sizzix

Gemstones - Mark Richards

Supplies - Patterned Paper, Stickers - Basic Grey

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Epoxy Sticker - Cloud 9

Supplies

Patterned Paper, Journaling Block, Buttons - Basic Grey

Flowers - Kaiser Crafts

Black Pen - Zig

Jen's Sketch Challenge 05-01-10

2010-05-06T19:17:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Sorry I've been so silent lately. I've been spending lots of time papercrafting and less time blogging. I know I am very far behind (as usual) so I'm not even going to attempt to get caught up, but I do intend to resume posting again.

For this post, I am sharing a card that I made for Jen's Sketch Challenge last Saturday. I also made the card to coordinate with a mini album that I made for my step mom for Mother's Day. She's actually on a plane on her way here right now, so I know she won't see this post before the "big" day!

I'll share the card first, then I'll share the mini album in the next post.

Enjoy! And, go and give Jen some love on her blog. She provides the most wonderful sketches and I just love playing along with everyone!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey, Ambrosia Collection

Stamps - Unity, Stampin' Up!

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Fibers - Creative Imaginations (Trim), Karen Foster (Scrapper's Floss)

Flower - Kaiser Craft

Button - Basic Grey

Sticker - Basic Grey

Jen's Sketch Challenge 03-20-10

2010-04-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

As usual, I'm a little late on Jen's sketch challenges. We just finished The Thorn (www.thethorn.net) and will have a lot more free time. Free time means doing laundry before midnight, cooking dinner for my family, and creating, yea!!!!

I will upload photos and provide some details from The Thorn. It was an amazing experience!

Anyway, here's my take on the sketch. I made a card for Jay's birthday from Kendall. I wanted to do a masculine card (which is never easy for me) and had some fun using stamps I'd never inked before. I love going through my existing stash to find stamps to use. Don't get me wrong, I love getting new supplies, but I think I tend to be even more creative when I go through "old" supplies and either re-use them, or use them for the first time. This is especially true with stamp sets. I'll buy a set because I love one or two stamps in it and the others don't get any love. I often think about hosting a challenge on this blog (and include some blog candy) where everyone takes a pledge to not buy any new supplies for a set period of time and only use what you have. It would be fun to see what we can all come up with out of our existing stashes.....sounds intriguing.

Anyway, enjoy!

Supplies

Cardstock - SU!, Bazzil Basics

Patterned Paper - Unknown (purchased at Costco over a year ago)

Stamps - Unity (Large frame), American Crafts (Small frame, sentiment)

Ink - SU!
Ribbon - Basic Grey

Clip - Ranger

And They're Off!

2010-03-14T18:02:00.000-07:00

After 3 long years, Kendall finally got her braces off on Wednesday. I think she was most excited about eating popcorn again and being able to floss and brush her teeth without metal obstacles.

We are so proud of the way she has handled this long process. She has made sacrafices and complained very little. She's handled the responsibility well (very few extra trips to the orthodontist due to wires breaking) and has been extremely patient.

Yesterday she had her first bowl of popcorn in 3 years and I know she is looking forward to having movie popcorn (her favorite again.) She's chewing gum and blowing bubbles and as you can see in the photo below, smiling naturally with her beautiful glow again.

Congratulations Kendall, you have a gorgeous smile!

You're So Thoughtful

2010-03-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

My wonderful boss gave all of the ladies in the office a gift certificate for spa treatment. I am extremely excited to go and get my facial on Wednesday night!

It's not only his generosity that makes my boss so great - it's his character, integrity, gift of leadership, and vision. I am so blessed to work for someone so wonderful.

I made this simple card to give to he and his wife as a thank you for all that they do for their employees. They don't have to - they give because they want to and that makes it all the more meaningful.

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Making Memories, Unknown

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Unity (Background Stamp, Bird on Limb), Hero Arts (Sentiment)

Ink - Stampin' Up!

Ribbon - Basic Grey

Button - Unknown

Scrapper's Floss

Jen's Sketch Challenge 03-13-10

2010-03-14T17:46:00.000-07:00

After taking last week off (although I still might do a card and play catch-up), I sat down this afternoon to make a project for Jen's fabulous sketch challenge.

All of her challenges are worth doing. She is incredibly creative, and so generous to post a challenge every Saturday! I haven't had much time lately to sit down and create because our schedules have been so hectic, but I was happy to sit down this afternoon for a while and pop in a chick flick and make a couple of cards. There is something so therapeutic about working with paper and being creative.

Anyway, hope you enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Papertrey Ink

Cardstock - Papertrey Ink, Stampin' Up!

Ink - Papertrey Ink, Stampin' Up!

Embossing Powder - Stampendous

Stamps - Verve Stamps (Circle Frame), Unity (Flower), Hero Arts (Sentiment, Dragonfly)

Uniball Signo Gelpen

Jen's Sketch Challenge 02-27-10

2010-02-28T17:21:00.000-08:00

This is the final week to participate to win Jen's sketch challenge mega prize package. If you haven't been playing along, you have until March 2 to post your entries.

This week I did a bit of paper piecing using Unity's adorable floral hot air balloon from the December KOTM titled Delightful Moments. What an appropriate title for a kit! Life is full of delightful moments.

I was in the mood to use a bit of orange this afternoon so I started with some DSP from SU! and then added the accent colors of Bashful Blue and Riding Hood Red. I ended up with a very fun design that makes me anxious for spring! Not that I wasn't already.....I am ready for flowers blooming and bright colors and blue skies and the smell of life in the air. At least we're in the final stretch of winter here and spring will be here before we know it.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Washington Apple (Stampin' Up!)
Cardstock - Pumpkin Pie, Riding Hood Red, Bashful Blue, Whisper White (Stampin' Up!)
Ink - Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, Riding Hood Red, Pumpkin Pie (Stampin' Up!), Staz-On
Stamps - Hot Air Balloon, Sentiment (Unity December KOTM), Flourish (Priceless Set SU!)
Ribbon - Bashful Blue (Stampin' Up!)
Button - Basic Grey
Rhinestones - Brand unknown

Shannon's Chicken Caesar Wraps

2010-02-28T13:14:00.001-08:00

This recipe is super-simple and has become a family favorite. It literally takes me a maximum of 15 minutes to prepare. Ready?

Ingredients
Large tortillas (to make them authentically Shannon's wraps, you must use the Tomato-Basil tortillas)
Grilled chicken strips (I buy the ready-made strips at Costco - makes for quick prep!)
2 large chopped tomatoes
Caesar salad dressing (my preference is Cardini's light Caesar dressing)
Shredded Parmesian cheese
Romaine lettuce leaves
Tortilla chips

In a large skillet, heat up the chicken strips, season with salt and pepper to taste.

While the chicken is heating up, slice up the tomatoes, and tear off the romaine lettuce leaves. Blister the tortillas over an open flame.

To assemble, take a tortilla, place chicken strips down the center, add tomatoes, parmesian cheese, salad dressing, a handful of crushed tortilla chips and top with 2 lettuce leaves.

Roll into wraps and enjoy!

Crafty Steals!

2010-02-28T13:09:00.000-08:00

I have a new favorite "hangout" - http://www.craftysteals.com/index.cfml. Every day, you will find a new, incredible deal on some fabulous papercrafting goodies. These deals are killer! Be sure to stop by early, because items sell out fast. Today's deal is already sold out, but you better believe I'll be stopping by tomorrow morning to see what special offering will be available :). Just had to share - I love finding bargains.

Jen's Sketch Challenge 02-20-10

2010-02-21T14:50:00.000-08:00

Time for another one of Jen's a-mazing sketch challenges! Have you seen the prize package she's giving away? Click here for a sneak peak and all the details.

Also, take the time to look through the slide shows for the last few weeks to see all of the fun projects! So much talent it's overwhelming!

Here's my take on this week's card. I was very excited to break out my new Papertrey Ink products that arrived in the mail this week. This was my first order from PTI (why did it take me so long?) The colors are gorgeous and everything is of extremely high quality and the prices are extremely affordable. So fun!

Anyway, enjoy :) Supplies

Cardstock - Papertrey Ink (Aqua Mist, Berry Sorbet), SU! (Whisper White)
Patterned Paper - Papertrey Ink (Text-Style Polka Dot Parade)
Stamps - Hero Arts (Sentiment, flourishes), SU! (Flower), Unity (Distressed Hearts)
Ribbon - Papertrey Ink (Aqua Mist)
Buttons - Papertrey Ink (Aqua Mist, Berry Sorbet), Unknown (White)
Flower - Hero Arts (White paper flower that I colored in Berry Sorbet ink using a sponge)
Ink - Papertrey Ink (Aqua Mist, Berry Sorbet)
Pearls - Michael's
Uniball Signo Gel Pen

Jen's Sketch Challenge 02-13-10

2010-02-14T15:08:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that Jen's sketch challenges are back! And, to top it all off, she's got a HUGE prize package for the month of February. Be sure to check out her blog for details.

For this card, I used a bunch of supplies that I have had lying around forEVER. I know you can all relate - you see new supplies posted from CHA or find some adorable paper that you just HAVE to have at your local scrapbook store and you keep building and building and building your inventory and there's this lonely paper sitting there that gets no attention.

I absolutely love this patterned paper from SU! (which is probably why I bought it to begin with), but I don't think I ever used it until today. I also used a cute stamp set that my friend Leslie gifted to me quite some time ago when she was cleaning out her supplies. I can't tell you how many stamps I have in my scrap room that have never been inked up and I am going to start making an effort to USE WHAT I HAVE. That's not to say I won't make any new purchases, but I am going to start digging through my supplies and making sure I'm familiar with what I have so that I can make use of it.

I did use one new thing on this project - the Top Notes die from SU! I have been eyeing this die for well over a year now and finally purchased it with my last order and was so excited that I was able to use it for this week's challenge. I also used my new Scallop Trim Border Punch from SU!'s Sale-A-Bration Catalog (this is the first year they've offered a punch during Sale-A-Bration).

Anyway, hope you enjoy!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - SU! (Retired)

CS - Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip SU!

Stamps - Sentiment (Heard from the Heart), Flower (Retired) - SU!

Rub-On - Wholy Cow- Basic Grey

White Gel Pen - Uniball Signo

Ink - Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip - SU!

You're Sweet

2010-02-13T21:28:00.000-08:00

Here's another thank you card I did to send out for all of the wonderful birthday blessings I received. I used a screen and some Tattered Angels glimmer mist (how much do I love this product?) sprayed onto some Kraft cardstock. I let it dry completely, then stamped it with some Basic Black ink and then adhered the panel to some CS that I embossed with my Cuttlebug. I finished off the card with an oval scalloped circle that I punched with my Marvy punch and then added the You're Sweet sentiment and a punched butterfly using my Martha Stewart punch.

It's definitely a card that is out of the norm for me and I'm not 100% sure how I feel about it. I like the idea, but I think I would tweak it a bit if I were to make it again.

Supplies
CS - SU!
Stamps - Hero Arts (background), Studio G (sentiment)
Emobossing Folder - Provo Craft
Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist
Screen for Glimmer Mist - Archiver's Exlcusive

Thanks So Much

2010-02-13T21:19:00.001-08:00

Sorry this photo turned out so bad. I did some touch-up in Photoshop, but it's still a bit blurred. Anyhoo - I decided to make a CAS card and actually use some white space! I have seen so many beautiful projects that include white space and for some reason, when I'm creating, I forget all about leaving white space and I don't know why, because I love the finished product. I got my inspiration for this card from a card done by Carolyn King in Paper Crafts magazine (Jan/Feb issue, page 53). I just used her basic layout as a template for mine.

I think the white space really makes the color pop on this card! I am going to try, try, try to do more of this in the future. We'll see.....it's hard to go CAS when you have a room full of beautiful goodies just waiting to adorn a card.

Supplies

CS - SU!

Patterned Paper - SU!

Sentiment Stamp - Hero Arts

Ribbon - SU!

Button - BAsic Grey

Jen's Sketch Challenge 02-06-10

2010-02-07T14:58:00.000-08:00

Jen's sketch challenge is back - and with some incredible prizes! There is a prize package worth over $200 up for grabs. Please visit Jen's site for details. She's also looking for the next Designer of the Month.

As if her sketch's weren't motivation enough to play along :).

I went with a Valentine's card for this week's challenge. I really like the combination of dark brown with cream and pink and have been using that combination on all of my V-day cards this year.

I started with a base of Chocolate Chip CS and then added a panel of patterned paper from Making Memories. I added a strip of Very Vanilla CS and below that, using my Sizzix Scalloped Circle in the Cuttlebug, I cut a piece of Bazzil CS and then trimmed it to fit the bottom of the card. I used my Coluzzle to cut the circles and that cute heart in the center was actually part of a Unity Stamp of a house with hearts in the center. I just cut the hearts out and then gave them a little glitz with some Stickles. The sentiment is from a Hero Arts stamp set and I gave them a little glitz with the same stickles as well. I finished it off with some buttons and pearls and then rounded the edges with my Corner Chomper, which I believe is my new favorite tool!

Hope you enjoyed :)

Supplies

CS - Stampin' Up!, Bazzil Basics
Patterned Paper - Making Memories
Stamps - Unity (Hearts), Hero Arts (Sentiment)
Buttons - Basic Grey, Unknown
Pearls - Kaiser Crafts
Stickles

Birthday Wishes

2010-02-05T20:48:00.000-08:00

This card was a blast to make. Partly because it was for Susan - one of the best friends I've ever had - and because this polka-dot paper is such fun!

I started with some Chocolate Chip CS and cut the polka-dot patterned paper to fit inside, leaving only a small border surrounding it and left room at the bottom for some green CS that I cut with my scalloped border punch from SU! I flipped the patterned paper over and using my Tim Holtz ruler, I drew guides on the back to cut out my circle punches. By drawing my guides on the back of the paper, I didn't have any lines to erase.

I used my 1 3/8" circle punch from SU! and then adhered WW CS to the back of the paper. I then stamped several different mini stamps from SU! (all retired) using my Stamp-A-Ma-Jig (for placement) to fit within the windows I cut out.

After I adhered the panel to the base of the card, I added some rick-rack ribbon from Bazzil using my Tombo Mono Multi glue and then cut a SU! scalloped square and attached using some Stampin Dimensionals. Finally, I stamped my circle sentiment on some CS to match the border along the bottom of the card and cut with my 1" circle punch and then attached with additional Stampin Dimensionals.

Supplies

CS - SU!

Patterned Paper - Making Memories

Stamps - SU!

Ink - SU!, Ranger, Colorbox Queue

Ribbon - Bazzil

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-01-31T20:18:00.000-08:00

Love is in the air, can you feel it? Ideally, we are not waiting until February 14th to let those we love let them know how much they mean to us.

I am beyond blessed with love in my life. I cannot imagine having more love in my life and I feel so unworthy at times, but extraordinarily grateful just the same. I believe it is important to show my loved ones appreciation every day of the year, but since Hallmark set aside a special day for love, I comply.

I must admit, making Valentine cards is such fun! I am a lover of pink and red and especially like to mix in some dark brown. There are so many possibilities!

I found some addorable paper at Archiver's this year (I am especially loving the polka-dots in the backround) and a great stamp set from Hero Arts. I made this card for one of the girls. I think it's cute, but still has an air of sophistication. After all, they are not little girls anymore .... which they will be very quick to remind you!

Supplies

Patterned paper - Making Memories
CS - Stampin Up!
Stamps - Hero Arts (Sentiment), Unity (Distressed Hearts Background)
Ink - Stampin' Up!
Heart Brads - Making Memories

So Blessed

2010-01-10T20:26:00.001-08:00

Since my mom was on her way to CA to see Aunt Bobbi (her wonderful sister), I made a card for her to take to Aunt Bobbi as well. Aunt Bobbi and I have always had a special bond. She is very similar to my mother in a lot of ways and has always been so thoughtful and reached out to me. Aunt Bobbi always sends birthday cards. Always. Today they are e-cards when in the past they were sent via snail mail, but she never forgets. Aunt Bobbi has a warmth and honesty about her. If you want the truth, you can ask Aunt Bobbi. When I was younger that wasn't the best quality (who wants to hear the truth about your actions and consequences when you're a teenager?) but today, as an adult, I appreciate her honesty so very much.

When I went to CA to visit back in Sep/Oct, Aunt Bobbi met me in Pomona and we had lunch and then went to visit Grandma together. It was the last time I saw Grandma and it was the last time Grandma had any real lucid moments. And Aunt Bobbi was there to share them with me. And we had such a wonderful time of sharing! And now, thanks to Facebook, we can keep in touch and chat whenever we feel like it.

I made this card for Aunt Bobbi using my new Verve stamps that I got on sale 50% off after Christmas. I made the card to let her know I was thinking of her during this difficult time, but moreso to let her know how much I appreciate her and love her. Cards do that....just one of the reasons I love my hobby so much!

Aunt Bobbi and Grandma and I. We love you and miss you Grandma!

Supplies

Patterned Paper - Stampin' Up!
Cardstock - Stampin' Up!
Stamps - Verve
Ribbon - Stampin' Up!
Button - Autumn Leaves
Scrapper's Floss
Ink - Clearsnap

Owlways In My Heart

2010-01-10T19:51:00.001-08:00

I had the most wonderful gift given to me yesterday. My mother was flying from Virginia to California and had a 3 hour layover in Denver. She didn't plan her trip this way, it's just the way it happened. We had been wondering for weeks if there was some way, somehow that I could see her while she was there, but there was the issue of security. She would already have gone through security and without a boarding pass, I would have no way to get through security. Neither of us could imagine her being this close and not having the opportunity to see each other.

Then, the miracle happened. Without our intervention, Kendall's mom asked if she could extend Kendall's stay a couple of extra days (school actually started back up on Thursday). That would mean that Kendall would be flying back on Saturday. Jay talked to Kendall's mom and they worked out the details and agreed that it would be ok for Kendall to miss 2 days of school. So, she went ahead and booked her flight.

Kendall's flight arrived at 4:25. Mom's flight arrived at 3:06. The timing was coming together! And, since Kendall is a minor, I would be able to get a boarding pass to go through security and be able to escort her from the gate.

We arrived at the airport and went to the Southwest ticketing counter and they let BOTH of us through!!!! We got to meet mom, have lunch with her, and then all 3 of us went to pick up Kendall at her gate. It was a short visit - only 3 hours, but we cherished every moment. I can't express enough what a blessing it was to be able to spend even a couple of hours with my mom. I miss her so much. And, her mother (Grandma Z) passed away on New Year's Day and I needed to hug her. I needed to look into her eyes. I needed to hold her hand and let her know I'm here and I understand her pain.

And, I made her a card and was able to give it to her - in person - and watch her open it and see the look in her eyes when she read my words to her.

Thank you Lord for such a wonderful gift.

Onto the card!!!! I am not usually an owl person, but some of the owl stamps out there are too cute for words! Especially this one with the big heart eyes. Who can resist?

Supplies

Patterned Paper - American Crafts

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!, Bazzil Basics

Stamps - Unity KOTM (October 2009)

Prismacolor Markers

Ribbon - Stampin' Up!

Rhinestones - Me and My Big Ideas

Button - Unknown

Heart Sticker - Colorbok

Scrapper's Floss

Kendall's 15h Birthday "Party"

2009-12-28T17:12:00.001-08:00

Poor Kendall. Her birthday is December 3rd and it's so hard to coordinate a date for her celebrations with friends. Everyone is busy with Christmas parties, decorating, baking, school plays, church programs, helping mom prepare for family coming in, shopping, breaking out the sweaters that grandma bought last year that hasn't been worn but must be adorned when she comes to visit.

The days of arranged parties complete with themed cakes and matching decorations are long gone. Now all Kendall wants is for her friends to come over and "hang out" - preferably in the basement - with loud music - with lots of food - with parents far from site. The lots of food part can be arranged. The loud music we can tolerate. The parents being far from site is not going to happen. We happily stay out of the way and let her "hang" with her friends, but we are present and we check up on everyone periodically.

Unfortunately, Kendall's invite list of 8 ended up with an attendee list of 2. Everyone already had obligations with family and we thought a party of 3 might leave much to be desired. So, we offered to take the kids out for pizza and to a movie of their choice (so long as it was rated PG or PG13 - no R allowed). Kendall thought that was a great idea, so her two friends came over to the house and we took them to Pizza Hut and sat across the restaurant from them so that they could speak freely and not feel like we were cramping their style. Then, we took them to see, "Old Dogs" (hilarious, by the way) and sat across the theater from them. They all had a great time and I think Kendall just appreciated the fact that she has made so many wonderful friends here in Colorado, even if they weren't all able to make it to her party. She's used to it, having a birthday in December.....maybe next year her birthday will be in September.

Opening gifts before we left the house

Kendall is so easily pleased. Bless her heart!

Our Non-Traditional Thanksgiving '09

2009-12-28T16:52:00.000-08:00

For Christmas for Jay and Kendall and I this year, we purchased season passes to Keystone and A-Basin, as well as season ski rentals from the AF Academy. One of the perks of being in the military is that we get some great discounts, especially living in a military-friendly town. We got an unbelievable deal on season passes and we decided what better gift to give one another than time together. We didn't purchase season passes for Nicole, because she won't be with us enough this season to justify a season pass, but we did buy two one-day tickets for her and took advantage of the time we had with her to hit the slopes for the first time this season.

We were able to have both of the girls with us over Thanksgiving week this year and picked up Nicole from DIA on the Saturday before the big day. Jay and I both took off that Tuesday and took the girls up to Keystone for their first day of skiing. Nicole picked it right up, but poor little Kendall had a heck of a time. She was so frustrated and we felt so badly for her! Jay and I tried to coach her along, and kept encouraging her to believe in herself and to not give up, but she spent most of the day frustrated.

We decided to get her some basic lessones for the day on Thanksgiving and what a difference a day makes! We kept skiing by and checking on her and by the time her lessons were over, she was flying down the bunny slopes with new confidence and taking joy not only in skiing, but in her accomplishments. I am sure it didn't hurt that she had a huge crush on her ski instructor (that is very confidential, so don't tell anyone)! Whatever the reason, we were so thrilled that she was enjoying herself and now we can go up to the mountains as a family and enjoy creating new memories in the mountains. We may not have any fantastic amusement parks nearby, but we can have plenty of amusement watching each other fall (er, ski) down the mountains :).

The day after Thanksgiving, we headed into Rexford and spent the evening with Jay's mom. We had such a delightful time! She made some homemade chicken noodle soup and some chili and some turkey breast and we brought 3 pies (they were buy one, get one, we're not completely insane) and Sharon made an oatmeal cake. We had a big feast, and then had a hilarious time playing Win, Lose, or Draw. Let's just say that none of us would be able to make a living drawing, but we still had a wonderful time. I can't remember the last time we all laughed that hard.

This may not have been a traditional Thanksgiving, but we absolutely made some lasting memories.

The ramp at the bunny slopes

Look at the view we had from the top of the mountain

I miss the ocean, but cannot complain one bit with views like these!

Getting ready to head down the mountain

Waiting in line to have our photos taken for our season passes

What on earth is she trying to draw?

Hmmmm

Would you put that camera down and come over here and help us?

Redkin Smooth Down Butter Treat

2009-12-28T16:36:00.001-08:00

Since moving to Colorado Springs, I have found that everything is dry - including my hair! My hands are dry, my legs are dry, my feet are dry, I get bloody noses on a regular basis, my hands are cracking....between the altitude and the cold, it's just DRY! I drink plenty of water, drown myself in lotion, cover my fingertips in Neosporin and Band-Aids before bedtime, and have completely given up wearing contact lenses until Spring.

Wha I have found is that I do not have to suffer from dry hair. I switched from my drugstore shampoo and conditioner (Pantene or Garnier - usually purchased in bulk at Costco) to Redkin All Soft shampoo and conditioner and a twice-weekly dose of one of my new favorite things.

I love this Redkin Smoothdown Butter Treat. It was recommended by my hair dresser and I have noticed significant improvement in the texture of my hair. You don't need to apply much, and I always let it set for a few minutes while I'm shaving my legs, or just enjoying the hot water and by the time I rinse, I have happy hair! I purchase it at Beauty Brands, which offers a much better price than the salon. Still, it is an investment, but it is very worth it. I went fry dry, frizzy, brittle hair to soft, smooth....well, happy hair!

Hyundai Santa Fe

2009-12-28T16:09:00.000-08:00

I loved my Honda CR-V. I used to drive Chrissi around in it and every time she was with mommy and would see a vehicle with a tire on the back she would say, "Shannon's car." She new my little Honda. She associated it with me. I drove that car to my first date with Jay. That car took me back and forth from Santa Maria to Camarillo. I would drive Grandma to the mall in the car and drive it to concerts and to visit friends and family. So many wonderful memories were made with that vehicle.

But alas, all good things must come to an end. I bought a Honda because of their reputed reliability. Around a year and a half ago, we started having problems with the head. Jay did some research online (he is so good at that) and discovered that there is a known problem with the Honda CR-V from 1999-2001. I happened to have a 2000 model. Honda of Santa Maria worked with us on the problems and eventually, ended up removing the head due to warpage and having it machined down and then reinstalled it. We found it peculiar that they did not charge us any labor (somewhere in the neighborhood of $1200), but were grateful that we caught such a break and didn't have to pay for such an expensive repair.

Fast forward to our move to CO. We towed the car on a trailer behind Jay's Nissan Titan and the car was running just fine for a couple of months. On the day I went for my job interview, the car would not start. I had Kendall in the car and we were headed to go to the bank to make a deposit and the car would not start! I was sure it was the alternator or battery and after 4 attempts, the engine turned over. I am 100% convinced that God started my car that morning because it should not have started. I took Kendall to the bank and left the car running in the parking lot. I know this is a big no-no, but I could not risk being stranded without a car with a job interview in 2 hours. We prayed and the car was still outside the bank and still running. We drove home and left the car running in the garage. Don't worry, I left the garage door open...but still, not a good idea. I came out and the car was still running, so I drove to my interview. I turned off the car, had my interview, and the car would not start. I was about to call AAA when my soon-to-be new boss offered to jump start my car for me. There I am, all dressed up in a suit, with the company owner outside jump starting my car for me. Talk about making a lasting impression! I promptly drove to the Honda dealership in Colorado Springs and they tested the battery and sure enough, it was dead. They installed a new battery and within 30 minutes, I was on my way home.

Job interview #1 lead to interview #2, which lead to interview #3 and an offer. One week before I was to start my new job, my check engine light came on. Not only did it come on, but it was flashing. I don't know much about cars, but I knew this was not good. I called the Honda dealership and they said to have the car towed in - do NOT drive it! So, I called AAA and they towed the car in. After several conversations with Front Range Honda, we discovered that the head needed to be replaced. Jay talked to them at length and after retrieving our records from Honda in Santa Maria, they informed us that the heads on that model can never be machined. Once they are warped, they are no good and cannot be repaired. Nice to know now! They negotiated for a couple of weeks with Honda of Santa Maria, and were completely unsuccessful. Out of the kindness of their hearts (and with the knowledge of the power of word of mouth), they agreed to replace the head ($4200 repair) for $1000.

While we were waiting for a resolution on the Honda, we decided it was time to get some reliable transportation for me. The Honda had 134,000 miles on it and with a new job and a harsh winter ahead of us, we decided to get a new vehicle. We read some extensive reviews online and found that the Hyundai Santa Fe was the best value for us. Both consumer and expert reviews were stellar and the price and standard warranty made this vehicle a really good value.

We went ahead and purchased the Hyundai and decided to have the Honda repaired and put it up for sale on Craig's List. We sold it within a week with full disclosure. The young woman that purchased the vehicle took it to a mechanic to have it looked at and we told her all about the head and the known issues with that model. The new head is under warranty, as is the new battery and the new tires that were purchased before we left CA. We felt that we were able to sell the vehicle in good conscience and hope that she is very happy with it and that it is a good car for her.

We are THRILLED with the Santa Fe! I can't say enough good about it. It came with all kinds of bells and whistles (like a compass in the rear view mirror, outside temperature, lighted drink holders, lumbar support, stereo controls on the steering wheel) and handles fantastic in the snow. Driving in the snow is an entirely new experience for me and I feel extremely safe in my new ride. It has all wheel drive and I can also switch to manual shifting to slow down on icy patches without applying the breaks.

We were not ready to purchase a new vehicle, but I am glad things worked out the way they did.
Below are pictures of my new baby. They were taken on a snowy day...these days the sunny days are few and far between and the car is so dirty when the sun does show itself that these are the best photos I have to offer until Spring ;)

Jen's Sketch Challenge 12-26-09

2009-12-28T09:46:00.001-08:00

I happen to work with an extremely generous group of people. It's a very small office and we all work together as a team. I absolutely love it! This was my first year there and I didn't realize that everyone was going to give gifts out. Some of them were very small, like a bag of candy or goodies, but it was still everyone was so thoughtful. I was caught off guard and hadn't purchased gifts for everyone myself, but at least wanted to make a thank you card for each of them.

I decided to use Jen's sketch challenge and just make 6 cards the same, rather than pressuring myself to come up with 6 designs in a relatively short amount of time. I think they turned out really cute! There are some variances (different buttons and snowflakes), but basically they are all the same.

Next year I will be much more prepared. Look out folks!

Supplies

Cardstock - Bazzil Basics (Light Blue, Pink), Stampin' Up! (Purple, Red)

Patterned Paper - Basic Grey (Mistletoe Collection)

Stamps - Inkadinkadoo (Snowflakes stamped onto Blue CS in Versamark), Hero Arts (Background Stamp, Sentiment)

Embellishments - Stampin' Up (Ribbon, Felt Snowflakes), Basic Grey (Buttons), Scrapper's Floss

Ink - Versamark, Stampin' Up (Elegant Eggplant Classic Ink)

Christmas Joy

2009-12-28T09:35:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! My poor little blog has been terribly neglected and I am planning on rectifying that! I don't know if I will get caught up anytime soon, but I needed to take the pressure off of myself to catch up so that I could at least start posting again. As a result, some postings may be out of order, but I realize so many loved ones and dear friends look to this blog for updates, especially since we are now so far away.

I'll start with a card that I made for Jay for Christmas. To give you an idea of how not only neglected my little blog has been, but my cardmaking as well, I made this card on Christmas morning. Talk about waiting until the last minute!

For some reason, this year I was totally off on all of my Christmas projects. I designed my photo cards in one day, when normally I spend a couple of weeks on them. I sent gifts out at the very last minute. I didn't even make custom cards for family in addition to the photo cards, and I totally forgot about a card for my husband until he mentioned his card on Christmas Eve. Yikes!

So, I got up on Christmas morning and closed the door to my craft room and went to work. Considering it was totally last-minute, I was happy with the results :). I did some embossing in gold on the snowflakes and used some wonderful products that I won at a women's event at church.

Supplies

Cardstock - Bazzil Basics
PatternedChip Paper - Basic Grey
Stamps - Stampin' Up (snowflakes)
Embelishments - Creative Imaginations (Trees), Little Yellow Bicycle (Chipboard Words), Hero Arts (Felt Flower), Making Memories (Brad)

My Favorite Lip Balm

2009-11-08T21:01:00.000-08:00

First of all, who doesn't love Bath & Body Works? As my dad so affectionately says, "women like stinky stuff." Although the truth is we like smelly stuff, he does have a point. I can never pass up an opportunity to stop in at Bath & Body Works or Victoria's Secret and smell the new fragrances and put on some sample spray or some lotion whether I am making a purchase or not. I love candles, candle oils, scented lotion, cologne, potpourri, good smelling shampoo and conditioner, flowers....yummy, clean, wonderful smells.

One of my favorite lines at Bath & Body Works has nothing to do with smelling good though. C.O. Bigelow makes some fabulous products and their lip balm is hands-down, the best lip balm I have ever used. They have some that mentha tinted products as well, which actually do have a nice scent and make your lips tingle (in a good way.) Since moving to Colorado EVERYTHING is dry and I appreciate even more having a good lip balm that will help prevent my lips from chafing. This lip balm truly is one of my favorite things.

Jen's Sketch Challenge 10-10-09

2009-10-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, so this posting is very late! I made sure I made this card in time because Jen was giving away some blog candy on last week's entry, but when I went to upload the card, Blogger was acting all buggy and I couldn't get onto the right entry to leave a comment! Ah, the horror!!!! And, we were going out of town for the weekend so eventually I had to give up.

But, since I just won some blog candy today, I don't feel so bad for missing the deadline. I don't want to be greedy, I think everyone should get a chance to win at one time or another.

Although I am very tardy, I wanted to go ahead and upload the card that I made, since I did make the effort , I thought I would go ahead and upload my card.

I used these fabulous papers from Making Memories. I got a 4x4 pack on sale at Archiver's and the patterns are so versatile and since I have been on a green kick lately, I was anxious to use them. I don't know what it is with me and colors, but I get on these kicks and I will find myself drawn to a particular color for a period of time and can't get enough of it and then boom, onto the next! The stamps are from Unity KOTM. I just love getting my kits every month and can't wait to open that manilla envelope that will barely fit into my mailbox :). I did some dry and wet embossing, some faux stitching, and some paper piecing on this card.

Enjoy!

I won! I actually won some blog candy!!!!

2009-10-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite blogs is Jennifer McGuire from Two Peas in a Bucket. She had some phenomenal tutorial videos on her site and makes beautiful cards and scrapbook pages. She also loves God and loves her family. She's a step mom also and inspires me all the time.

From time to time, she has some blog candy and although I have never won any blog candy, I keep playing along, hoping that one day my ship will come in.

Well, it came in today. Check out this entry on Jennifer's blog. Yep, that's me!

And, God knew that today I really needed a little boost from him. On the way home from Kendall's ortho appointment, my check engine light came on in the Honda. It didn't just come on and stay on, it was flashing, which come to find out is really bad news. I called AAA and they towed it to the Honda dealership. Hopefully I will find out in the morning what the problem is. This, after I just got a new battery installed on Friday and we had to fork out a substantial amount of money to have the stove replaced in our house in Santa Maria. Argh!

None of this is the end of the world, but God still knew that I needed a little gift tonight and some chipboard albums from Cosmo Cricket will do me just fine. Thank you God!!!! And, thank you Jennifer :).

Hershey York Peppermint 100 Calorie Bars

2009-10-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love Thin Mint Girlscout Cookies? They are absolutely the BEST! Ok, maybe not as good as homemade chocolate chip cookies fresh out of the oven, but for a boxed cookie, they just can't be beat. Well, thanks to Hershey, you can get that same great Thin Mint flavor year round, for only 100 calories for two good-sized wafer cookies and they taste just as good as the real thing! I don't even think York and Hershey were necessarily trying to mimic the Thin Mint cookie flavor, but that was the first thing that came to mind when I bit into one of these lovely little cookies this afternoon. I think the only thing better would be to dip them into some vanilla ice cream. Yum.....

Christmas in September

2009-10-15T20:32:00.000-07:00

My friend Leslie has been at it again! She is cleaning house to prepare for the birth of her first child (her name is going to be Ruby, how cute is that?) and has given up Scrapbooking to focus on some other hobbies. She decided to purge and GAVE away all of these great products to me....for free! She posted a message on Facebook that she had a bunch of product to give away to the first one to send her a message. I told her that if there was no one local (she lives in VA) that I would be happy to take all of the Stampin' Up! products off of her hands because I didn't want her to get stuck with it after all.....as it ended up, there was no one local and I happened to be the first one to message her. She had some Creative Memories products also, but I didn't want to be a complete hog so I *volunteered* to take all of the SU! products off of her hands. I had no idea what I was in for until I received two, very heavy boxes filled with product. I now own almost every, single ink pad and 5 new stamp sets. All for free! I sent Leslie a check for all of the postage, plus a little extra and we sent a beautiful gift for baby Ruby, but what a gift this was. She could have sold it on ebay or Craigs list, but she gave it all away.

Thank you Leslie, and thank you God for this special gift.

MAC Prep & Prime

2009-10-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

I'm starting a new feature on my blog to showcase a few of my favorite things. I love reading reviews of products by other bloggers and although this blog is not designed as an advertising mechanism, I want to share some tried and true products that I have found work for me. Yes, yes, I realize you can pick up Glamour's annual product review guide for beauty products, but I'm not going to focus strictly on beauty products. I might share a kitchen tool or gadget or shoe....the possibilities are endless.

Today, I am starting with a beauty product. This is MAC's Prep and Prime Eye cream. I have been using this cream for about 4 years now and I just love it. I don't know about all women, but I end up with a crease in my eye shadow at some point in the day. It might be in the afternoon on a hot, summer day, or at the end of a very long work day. It is inevitable that at some point, the crease will magically appear. This cream does not eliminate the crease all together, but it helps prolong the inevitable. The main thing I love about this cream is that it helps to apply eye shadow extremely smoothly. It provides a base to the lid so that anything that is added on top of the base will go on smoothly and gives an extra polished look. One jar will last a good year, and it travels really well.

Tip - for those of you that don't know, save all of your MAC packaging. When you have accumulated 6 empty containers (used to be 5 but whatever), you can turn them all in to your local MAC store or MAC counter at a department store and they will give you a free lipstick of your choice! I would recycle the packaging anyway, but I'm not going to turn down a free lipstick!