Danderella

Tickled Pink - Valentines!

2012-01-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

This week over at Paper Sundaes, our sponsor is Tickled Pink Stamps and our challenge is to make a Valentine. I wasn't in much of a pink mood, so chocolate and red is what I chose when I pulled out these fun Bo Bunny papers to play with. The image is Lil Birthday Kellita and I originally got her last year for a Christmas challenge. I just love that you can change the colours on an image like this and use it for a whole different holiday!

I know that some call it "hoarding" but I prefer the term "saving for a rainy day" when it comes to 6x6 paper pads. I am beginning to wonder though, if perhaps I have more than I could possibly use. A friend of mine, Donna, has started to make multiples of her cards for her stash....I think I may just take a look at doing that too. This card was an quick one to pull together and could be used with a variety of papers that I have in my stash. The layout is from Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #46. I'm not even sure how I came across this one, but the layout pulled me in and I couldn't not play with it. Check it out, she has some great sketches!

Today, both girls are having friends over to play. We bought lots of play doh especially for this...the girls are just in love with playing Cake Boss and having cake making competitions. I'm hoping to capture a few pictures of their creations for sharing this week...we'll see what they come up with!

Stamps: Tickled Pink Lil Birthday Kellita, Sentiment: Amy R
Paper: Bo Bunny Crazy Love, Brown & Red
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Oval Nestabilities, Prima Flowers, CTMH Brad, Heart cutout from a MS Border Punch

Don't Tell Me to Relax!

2012-01-25T21:50:00.000-05:00

Haha, I totally forgot that I had this stamp set from MFT. It is called Twisted Foursome...and it is a set of funny and sometimes off colour sentiments. I can totally relate to this sentiment too! I had just finished a DT card on Monday and was itching to use my MFT Well Worn Greetings Dies and this is what I came up with. I gotta say, these dies are the bomb...I know I sound like a geek, but this set is really just plain fabulous!

The layout is courtesy of Mojo Monday Sketch #225 and I'm proud to say that the card is completed, photographed and posted before the challenge closes! Yay Me! I was pleasantly surprised by how easily this one came together...and I just love that sentiment!

So....I have a question for you. See, I am currently working part-time, just 2 days a week and it feels like if I don't do some major planning each week, then on the days that I work and the kids have activities we end up eating out. I can generally do the standard spaghetti, chili, soup & sandwiches, burgers, chicken breast and meatloaf. But, I'm getting sick of eating these things. I tried a great Beef Barely Soup last week, but the Rock Star is a picky eater and so she had chicken nuggets instead. So, my question is this. Do you have a favorite "easy" recipe? I'm talking I can either make it the night before without much fuss, or it prepares in under 15 minutes. Crock pot recipes are welcomed. Link me to your favorites. Email them to me at dan_scrapbook at hotmail dot com. I'm getting desperate people...I can't look another McDonald's Big Mac, Wendy's Bacon Deluxe or Little Caesars $5 pizza in the eye!

Stamps: MFT Twisted Foursome
Paper: Bo Bunny Enchanted Collection, Red, White, Black
Ink: CTMH Black
Accessories: Misc. Clear Gems, MFT Well Worn Greetings Dies

Paper Peicing with My Favorite Things Stamps

2012-01-22T08:00:00.003-05:00

Recently, I have become the proud owner of several My Favorite Things (MFT) Stamps and Die-namics. I couldn't wait to ink this A la Mode - Oh Baby! After many years of no babies being born, suddenly it seems like they are everywhere I go! I made this card for our LSS Donna, who had a new baby boy in November. I always feel a little extra pressure when making a card for Donna, just cause she is so darned good at it herself!

And, as luck would have it, Paper Piecing is the challenge this week over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog. and MFT is this weeks sponsor! It's been a while since I was able to join the ladies over there every week and I am so happy to be able to play around with them and check out all the great stuff that the participants have to show.

Anyway, I searched in my stash for some fun boy paper and found this Reminisce Baby Boy Footprint that I picked up eons ago (I also have it in pink!). Paired with the brown, I think it is just adorable. Since my mojo hasn't been around much, I used the Sweet Stop Sketch #140 and it worked out better than I could have imagined.

I really do love paper piecing, and sometimes when I am in my scrap room I have been know to abandon a project mid-design to do a little paper piecing on a totally different image! Is it any wonder the place is a disaster? LOL!

So, last week was a long one. A few Dr's appts for hubby, a dentist appt for me, the girls got their eyes checked again for glasses and I worked for 2 days. So come Friday, and -33 Celsius I was not a happy camper. After driving the kids to school I was frozen so I climbed into bed, clothes and all just to warm up. That was at 9:30 am. I crawled out of bed at 1:30 in the afternoon. Now, for some people this might be normal, but even Hubby commented that in the 17+ years we've been together he's never seen me sleep so late. The nice thing is, I woke up feeling completely refreshed...more rested than I have felt in months, maybe even years. I guess the body wants what the body wants. :)

I hope you all have a restful Sunday, and thank you so much for visiting my blog.

Stamps: MFT A la Mode - Oh Baby

Paper: Reminisce Baby Boy Footprint, Brown Bazzill, White
Ink: Copic Markers, Versamark Black
Accessories: Cuttlebug, Spellbinders Label Sixteen

Happy New Year!

2012-01-18T21:25:00.000-05:00

Well, nothing ever goes according to plan around here. I had cards done and knitting projects ready to show and they just didn't seem to make it past the camera. I have been feeling a little overwhelmed lately (and that is a major understatement!). Lucky for me, when I had a mini nervous breakdown back on December 4th, my Mom was able to drop everything and fly back from Miami to help out. Thanks Mom!

I am only working 2 days a week for the next while in hopes of getting enough of a handle on things to work full-time again while still managing everything at home. That, of course, leads to the question of what do I do when I'm not at work? Well, I clean my house...albeit I am a lousy housekeeper. I sit and think...in silence...with no one interrupting me. And, I knit.

Although my mojo seemed to take a vacation during November and December, I was able to finish some knitting projects for Christmas presents. This first one is the cowl that I made for Munchkin's teacher. We love this woman...she is everything that today's teachers need to be. Her expectations are high, but reasonable and she doesn't waffle on something once she has set it. No pushing deadlines or excuses with this one...great lesson to learn in the 4th grade! Anyway, this is the Munchkin modeling her teachers gift.

Next up is my little Rock Star modeling the same cowl that I made for her teacher only in a different yarn. Two very different teachers and so I wanted it to be the same (because the pattern was quick and easy) but different. I am told that both teachers loved them, so that makes me happy. :)

As I was downloading all 197 pictures on my camera (some from last winter, gasp!) I noticed the shot we tried to get for giving to family for Christmas. The girls had just come back from getting their hair cuts, and since it was slow that day they both got "princess makeup" done. They looked very cute and totally picture worthy. I whipped out the camera, they got in front of the tree and this is the best shot we got.

This shot about summarizes the kids these days. The Rock Star is all sour puss and argumentative, while the Munchkin is so good and just trying to make everyone happy. Sigh...these are the days of our lives....sigh. LOL!

I have not been completely out of my scrap room these past 6 weeks, but I have been working on DT stuff for Paper Sundaes Challenges, so stay tuned for those!

Christmas Greetings

2011-12-19T22:49:00.002-05:00

Well, only a few days left until Christmas...are you ready? I am as ready as I am ever going to be. All the knitted gifts are finished, (and Bananastamper reminded me to take pictures!), the gifts have all been purchased. I just need to remember to get to the grocery store before everything is cleaned out! LOL!

Today I have a simple card. This seems to be what I enjoy creating these days..simple.

I hope that you like it. If I can get Bananastamper to model for me, I'll have pictures of the teacher's gifts later this week. Have a great one!

Falalala

2011-12-07T22:19:00.001-05:00

Time Flies...even when you aren't having fun! So, I realized that even if I didn't have anything funny or interesting to say, I should still post the cards that I have taken pictures of.

So, here is one that I made a few weeks back. I used my CTMH Cricut Cartridge.

The picture is the craps. This really does look better in person. Oh well. I hope you like it.

Birthday Fun!

2011-11-20T08:00:00.001-05:00

My oldest turned 9 a few weeks ago, and she had her sleepover birthday party on Friday night. I scheduled this post so that it would be up, whether I survived or not! LOL!

We made the invitations using my Cricut...I dusted it off and it works just fine! LOL! Oh, Cricut how I missed you so! The paper is We R Memory Keepers Hippity Hoppity Easter Collection..haha!

In keeping with the cupcake theme, the loot bags were made with my brand spanking new Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge from Close To My Heart.

The bags were colour co-ordinated to the contents - a body lotion, hand sanitizer spray and $10 gift card to Bath & Body Works. I have to tell you, I always work really hard to make our loot bags a little bit different, or at least something that the kids can use.

Now, the challenge this week at Paper Sundaes is being sponsored by Simon Says Stamp and the challenge is to use Bows on your project somewhere. I make all my bows with my own little fingers, but I now that other people have little gadgets. I could never get the hang of my boweasy...but tell me, what do you use?

Go and make some bows!

Stamps: Lily of the Valley Just For You
Paper: CTMH - various colours, We R Memory Keepers Hippity Hoppity
Ink: CTMH Black Ink

Accessories: Yellow Grosgrain Ribbon, Cricut Cartridges - Sweet Treats & Art Philosophy, Zva Crystals

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2011-11-16T22:53:00.000-05:00

Ahh, the Christmas Music has started. I turned it on at work today, although I'm sure that the guys changed the station as soon as I left, and it was nice to just hum along to the old familiar tunes. Despite the music, and a spattering of snow yesterday afternoon it doesn't feel like the holiday's yet at all. Perhaps it is because I'm not watching enough TV, so I'm not seeing the commercials telling me how I need to buy more, bake more and decorate more. Or, maybe it's because we got a new fireplace downstairs and it is finally warm when I craft. :)

Either way, the holidays are coming and I am slowly getting ready. I made this card using a sketch from Sweet Sketch Wednesday. And, I even had it done in time to enter the challenge, but never got around to blogging it until now. But it isn't really about entering, more about getting something done, and I did.

I even managed to finish the inside of the card, since I couldn't seem to figure out where I wanted my sentiment to go on the outside.

I'm going to enter my card in a few challenges - even if I did miss the one it was intended for!

Papers and Such is looking for Paper Piecing - did you notice her funky gloves & scarf?!?

and

The Pink Elephant is looking for embossing on your project.

It's late, and so I'm off to bed. Chat again soon.

Danielle

Paper Sundaes - Gettin' Digi with It!

2011-11-13T08:00:00.007-05:00

Haha, I'm sure all you old school Will Smith fans will get a giggle from my post title...at least, I hope you do. This week's challenge over at Paper Sundaes is to use a Digital Image...and we're being sponsored by Pink Cat Studio's one of my favourite stamp company's. I own a whole slew of their digital images, so this was a fun challenge for me. I used Mojo Monday Sketch #214 for my inspiration.

This image isn't one that you'll find on the Pink Cat Studio site...I used Gingerbread Tree and then blew it up to the right size and cut out my little gingerbread friends.

Only 4 more days until I get to spend the night with my girlfriends and get a little Twilight fix! I'm so excited for Breaking Dawn's release on Thursday. The commercials I keep seeing on TV give me chills!

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio's Gingerbread Tree, Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps - Noelle (sentiment)

Paper: Misc. Bazzil from my stash, Echo Park Season's Greetings
Ink: Copic Markers

Accessories: Stickles, Dollarstore Gems, Prima Poinsettia flowers and leaf and ornament too!, Spellbinders

The Coldest Day

2011-11-10T23:07:00.000-05:00

Wow, we have been blessed her in little Thunder Bay Ontario...NO SNOW!!! At least, not in my neighbourhood. I'm afraid they were hit pretty hard both east and west of us, but the lake managed to push the system away from us and I couldn't be happier.

I'm also happy because I have been having a series of good days....yes, a whole series of them! Not only have we managed to have no doctors appointments this week, the kids haven't been sick either so I've been at work all day every day! This is huge for me and I get so much done...amazing how staying at work all day works! LOL! Then, I finally figured out a parenting strategy that helps calm my nerves and allows my 6 year old to calm her rage. Wednesday we had our first tantrum free day in almost 18 months! And yes, I've been keeping track...it was bliss!

To add to this bliss, I have hired our babysitter to come to the house every Tuesday evening so that I can get some "me" time, since all else was failing. This Tuesday evening in just under 3 hours I was able to buy clothes for both children, go to the cable office and change my television programming, buy a new smaller crock pot, wander around Michael's for a few minutes, spend some time at Chapters and then I parked the car at a nice park and read a book for 45 minutes! Amazing what I can get done without little one's in tow.

And then...I spent Wednesday after the kids were in bed working in my every neglected craft room. I came out with 3 cards...count 'em 1 - 2 - 3 cards! And this first of those cards is right here.

I was so excited when I received my order from MFT (I haven't been crafting but I have still been buying...bad me!)and I could just see all the paper piecing possibilities with this new WTG Gets Cozy with Cocoa set. I rummaged through my stash and came up with this great Bo Bunny paper from last year. I managed to use the MFT Wednesday Stamp Club Sketch#45 for my layout too!

In keeping with my chilly theme, the challenge over at Delightful Challenges this week is Snowflakes, so I'm going to enter my card.

Although there hasn't been any snow yet, there is definitely a nip in the air. I finally retired my fall coat this morning and pulled on the inside of my winter jacket. I do believe that heated seats are now my new favourite thing about my car! :)

Stamps: My Favorite Things WTG Gets Cozy with CocoaPaper: Bo Bunny, CTMH Baby Pink

Ink: CTMH Holiday Red, Copic Markers
Accessories: EK Success Snowflake Punch, MFT Simply Scallops Die-namic, CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge (for the tags), Bella dots in pink.

Update and a Card

2011-10-26T21:14:00.000-04:00

Well, aren't I just a horrible blogger. I said I was back and then I disappeared again! Well, I am really working hard at being back with some regularity now. You see, I took on some home renovation projects and things got a little out of hand! LOL! But, now I have new flooring in my basement and a new gas fireplace will be installed next week. Now that I'm going to be happy with the way my family room looks, I'm hoping that BananaStamper will come over and help me decorate a little this year to get in the spirit. And, most of the grass on my front yard has been pulled up and replaced with nice fresh black earth. The gardening/finishing touches for that will have to wait for spring though. Funny, I'm hoping that BananaStamper will assist with that too...hmmm, I'm seeing a theme here!?! LOL!

So, I have a card to show you that I made in the summer for my oldest daughter when she went to summer camp for the first time. I've had this image coloured forever in my "coloured images" bin waiting to be used. This seemed an appropriate time, as the mojo was no where to be found. The paper came from a very old pack of CTMH stash and the image was from a Random Act of Kindness swap. The ribbon though, which I think pulls the card together completely is from i {heart} papers. Love it.

And, my little Rock Star has lost her first tooth! It is official, she is no longer a baby and I can prove it! Of course, one loose tooth means money, but more loose teeth means more money so she's wiggling way at the second one.

I already have a few cards made so I will be working on getting photos of those taken and then will be posting them and cleaning out the craft room so that I can start in on Christmas cards.

See you soon!

Paper Sundaes Felt Challenge

2011-09-18T08:00:00.008-04:00

Felt is something that I just love to work with, and have wonderful ideas about in my head. Getting those ideas to come to life is a whole different story. However, I received these fabulous felt flowers a long time ago and knew they were just the perfect amount of felt for the challenge over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog this week. Be sure to go over and check it out, this week's sponsor is Simon Says Stamps!

Okay, I know I can't get away with a 4 month absence without a little update. Hubby is doing as well as can be expected and we are learning new things every day. The kids are big and bad and so happy to be back at school and into their routine. I have been keeping myself busy trying to knit and have managed to make a few pairs of slippers over the summer months.

I haven't left the crafting community completely, I've just been lurking around on my Ipod Touch, so commenting can be quite difficult. I've got the laptop all set up and plan to spend some time a few days a week in the craft room. I'm looking forward to connecting again with everyone, and making some new friends here in blog land. Have a wonderful day!

Danielle

Taking a Break

2011-04-20T12:16:00.000-04:00

Well, this is definitely not what I wanted my next post to be, but I dont' know any other way right now.

Hubby & I visited the Neurosurgeon in Toronto on Monday (Apr 18) and the tumor is growing. He is scheduled for surgery on May 10th. Even though he'll be awake, it is day surgery, so I'll be taking him to a hotel that evening and then flying home on the 11th. Assuming all goes well, the Surgeon told him he could go fishing on the 15th of May for Walleye opener! Isn't it incredible the things they can do with the brain!

That being said, the stress of working a full-time job and dealing with hubby's illness and trying to give my children extra attention, something has to give. Right now, it is my blog and really I've been letting it fall apart for a while now. I haven't even been in my craft room since my last card was made. That being said, I don't plan on not crafting, just taking a break from self-inflicted guilt that comes every Sunday when I know I don't have a card to post.

I am going to take a break until the end of June 2011 at which point I will re-evaluate what I can reasonbly do in the 24 hours that I have to work with. If I get any cards up before then, well, bonus! If not, I won't be feeling any pressure. I know that you all will understand.

Thanks.

Danielle

Keepin' It Simple

2011-04-07T16:26:00.000-04:00

I am counting down the days until Figure Skating is finished...feels like I am always counting down to something these days. The ice show is this weekend and even though practices are only 30 minutes long, I'm running to the rink every night. Luckily, we only have one evening of activities scheduled for the Spring, so things should get a smidge easier. Plus, I am itching to get into my scrap room and clean...I know, not craft...clean. I'm having a hard time getting any mojo looking at the piles of stuff so I have resovled to do something about it soon.

I was able to carve a few minutes out last Friday to sneak over to BananaStampers house and whip together a few simple cards. This was one of them. I hope you like it.

Stamps: MFT
Paper: CTMH
Ink: Black
Accessories: White Ribbon from Walmart, fun red scalloped card from MFT VIP Kit! Woohoo!

Spring Blossoms

2011-04-03T08:00:00.013-04:00

It is trying so hard to be Spring here in Thunder Bay. The snow is melting and the sun is shining. The kids have pulled out their bikes and rubber boots and we're not wearing scarves and mitts every time we leave the house. This can only mean one thing...there is a big snow storm brewing! LOL!

In an effort to push these thoughts away, the challenge this week at Paper Sundaes is to use Spring Blossoms. I made this fun birthday card late in the week. It's not my favorite card every, but it will work perfect for a little kids birthday party so I'll add it to my stash.

I hope that your Sunday is relaxing and warm.

Stamps: Lily of the Valley
Paper: Misc. from my stash
Ink: Copics

Accessories: Prima Flowers, Bo Bunny Brads.

2011-03-31T20:36:00.001-04:00

Whoops! Another card that was scheduled but I forgot to add words. I was trying to use up some of my scraps of paper and this card was born.

I was called yesterday and given a "kick in the butt" by my frined Shana over at 2 Little Monsters to get back into my scrap room. Luckily I already have plans to visit Bananastamper tonight and test out my new copics! So, you should be seeing some new creatons from me in the coming days.

Embossing Challenge

2011-03-20T08:00:00.001-04:00

This week's challenge at Paper Sundaes is to use embossing on your card.

Keep It Simple!

2011-03-15T20:30:00.002-04:00

The Challenge this week over at Paper Sundaes is to keep it simple...easier said than done! But, after much thought and 16 hours of driving this weekend I was able to pull it off.

I love this set My How You've Grown from My Favorite Stamps. I coloured it simply to match my card stock and then punched out a few little ducks and voila, finished! This is exactly the kind of easy card I needed to ease me back into my craft room. Can you believe that it has been over 3 weeks since I was in here. Luckily, my kiddo's are finally in Florida with my parents (7 weeks flew by didn't they!)and BananaStamper's kids were at a sleepover so we got together for a few hours of uninterrupted stamping and talking. So relaxing!

Monday hubby and I did some much needed grocery shopping and some wandering around the mall after we had dinner in the food court and once this post is up I'm off to knit a little and then done for the night. Tuesday's exciting plan without kids included French Onion Soup, Garlic toast and a movie!

Stamps: My How You've Grown - My Favorite Things

Paper: CTMH White, Buttercup, Misc. Green from Bananastamper's stash, White Bazzill
Ink: Copics, CTMH Black
Accessories: Duck punch from back in my scrapping days.

A Pair of Slippers

2011-03-04T14:40:00.001-05:00

A few weeks back my friend BananaStamper, who lives just a few houses down from me, inquired about my slipper making skills...and hinted that she would love a pair for her birthday...IN NOVEMBER! LOL! Of course, I have a big pile of yarn hanging around from various projects and so what better thing to do while watching Greys Anatomy than to whip up a pair of slippers? What was I thinking?

You see, when I set out to make a card, I generally end up with 2 or 3. I get started on something and then find something else I love but it won't fit with the first card, so I finish up the first and make a second and then it isn't just right for the challenge so generally it takes a while before I make a card I love. I'd like to say that the same goes for knitting (okay, it does a little bit) but the problem is really that I am out of practice. So, I searched "slipper pattern" on the Internet and was met with so many, I had a hard time choosing. And, I only knit, not crochet so that narrowed the field down a little. After 3 weeks, here is what I had to show...

3 single slippers!

Let me take moment to explain. You can see that the pink slipper is nice. However, it fit really tight...like leotards tight..and it wasn't super comfy. Even though the yarn I used was meant for a sweater, it felt kind of rough on the foot, so I only made one slipper.

The second slipper I tried, I really like the pattern and it was super easy and quick. However, I didn't check my gauge before I started and using the recommended needles and yarn I ended up with a size 11 men's slipper (it was supposed to fit a women's size 8). Oops...onto the next slipper.

This one is close in design to the pink one, only with a bigger needle and bigger yarn. The stitches are super tight so I know it will be warm, but the heel is sewn together, so it's not the most comfortable. I actually was going to make a second of this until I realized....

...I sewed the really nice edge on the inside of the slipper. Seriously?! I had turned it inside out to weave all the ends in while watching TV and forgot to turn it back out before I did the edge. Argh! At this point, I was beginning to think that BananaStamper wasn't meant to get slippers for her birthday...or ever!

But, I persevered and after a few adjustments to the big slipper, I am happy to report that early this week I delivered a 8 month early birthday present!

Don't they look comfy! And, once I got myself all straightened out they actually knit up in less than 3 hours for the pair, including all the hiding of the ends etc.

Whew! Hard to believe that I don't just give up on knitting all together. However, the rock star has been bugging me to get started on a blanket for her bed (I made one for the Munchkin last year). That too has been an adventure...one which I'll share next week.

Have a great weekend.

Lesson Learned

2011-03-02T15:09:00.000-05:00

Did you ever tell your kids "One of these times you're gonna do**substitute something dangerous here** and you're gonna get hurt!" Well, show them this picture and let it be a very real warning of what happens when you don't sit on your bum on the reclining couch.

Seriously, didn't we all hear Mom or Dad (or grandparents for that matter) tell us not to lean on the foot/reclining part of the chair because it would flip down and we'd get hurt. Well, my 8 year old 4' 6" Munchkin here decided it would be a good idea to crawl out onto the foot portion of the reclining couch while watching TV Sunday morning.

Of course, without warning, the foot part collapsed taking her hands with it and she fell face first onto the carpet covered concrete floor of our basement. To add insult to injury, because her knees were still on the couch as she fell, she slid along the carpet causing this nasty rug burn.

I am still amazed at how she could have rug burn between her eyes and inside her nose...YES...Inside her nose! Youch! And notice how she managed to get rug burn on both side of her nose? Crazy, I now. Luckily, she said it doesn't hurt anymore, just itches. This picture was actually taken the day after the event, when all the swelling had gone down.

No new cards yet, but I have a knitting project to show you on Friday...and of course, it comes with a story!

Charming!

2011-02-27T08:00:00.002-05:00

Haha...the only problem with scheduling posts is you have to remember to go back and add words! LOL!

Unfortunately, I did not and so this nice bookmark sat on my blog all day Sunday lonely as can be...sigh.

I made this bookmark for the challenge over at Paper Sundaes, which is to use a charm on your card. I had this cute umbrella charm and I wanted to use a stamp from our sponsor, Stamp and Create, so I added a handwritten note on the back of my bookmark that says "Nothing beats a good book on a rainy day." This will be perfect to add to a gift for a number of my daughters friends.

On the medical front, we've got our MRI Appt for the 7th and see the Neurologist on the 15th of March...knowing when all the appts are helps. Well, helps me anyways.

Happy Monday.

A big Thank You!

2011-02-24T15:47:00.000-05:00

Okay, I have to confess...I like this card and I like this image (actually, I LOVE this image) but I'm not so sure they work together. Let me take you on the journey that is was the making of this card.

I started out by colouring my image to match the pinks in the paper. That was on Tuesday. Then on Friday I decided to get to work and use the Friday Sketchers sketch. The card was originally for a Paper Sundaes Challenge which was to use more than one stamp...so we're on Friday and the image is due on my blog on Sunday. Life happens and I come back to it on Monday and just cannot pull my mojo out of the gutter to figure out a second image. Sigh. I spot the black dots and decide that black is what is missing (although looking at it now red or dark pink would have worked so much better) and so I laid it all out. Life happens and on Friday I finally get into the craft room to glue it all together (it's been laying there nicely since Monday). Sunday rolls around and I finally take pictures. Oh my, that's a two week card. On the bright side, it's one more card to add to my stash. And, I realized how much I love this image.

On the home front, things are ok. As much as I love my papercrafting, knitting has become something that is just easier to do right now. Hubby has been having seizures most days despite being on high doses of 3 different anti-seizure medications. We're waiting on an MRI now to see what the heck is going on. I'm exhausted and so hanging out with hubby watching a little TV and knitting is much easier at this point. So, if you don't see a lot of posts from me, that is why...life has just taken over for a bit. Regardless, I am thankful for everyone who pops in and comments on my blog. :)

Stamps: Thank You Girl - digi from Karen's Doodles
Paper: From my stash, if you recognize it, let me know and I'll change this! LOL!

Ink: Copic markers, CTMH Black

Accessories: Queen & Co. Black Dots, Corner Punch thing from SU, Spellbinders Lacey Circles

Masculine Colours!

2011-02-21T15:51:00.000-05:00

This week over at Paper Sundaes Challenge blog, the challenge is to use Masculine colours on your card. This one was so hard to for me...crazy I know. This card is the final product, but it was a process getting here, let me tell you.

I started out by pulling out my Basic Grey - Oliver paper pad because it had masculine colours. I picked the papers on Tuesday and the sketch is from MFT - Wednesday Stamp Club Sketch. Then I thought about it for a few days. Saturday morning I got up early with the kids and was able to spend a few minutes in the scrap room, but really the brain doesn't work so well before 10 am so this is what I came away with.

It's okay, and definitely meets all the requirements of the challenge and sketch, but I can't say it's a card that I'm proud of...we all make a few of those! I still had to photograph it and Saturday went by in a blur of swimming lessons, diving, cleaning and laundry. Then Sunday with church, more cleaning, skating lessons, more laundry and a birthday party. Whew...still no picture of my card. So today (Monday) I finally snagged a few minutes alone and made a new card that I am much more proud of. And, I took pictures of all the cards that I promised you last week and made a few scheduled posts.

Stamps: MFT 'Somethings Fishy', Amy R Birthday Sentiments(second card)
Paper: Basic Grey Oliver, CTMH Outdoor Denim, Seafoam
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Spellbinders Flowers Die, Misc. Button, Queen & Co Bling.

Pick your Sundae Topping!

2011-02-13T08:59:00.000-05:00

Happy Sunday! This week at Paper Sundaes Challenge we're sponsored by Tickled Pink Stamps! Be sure to play along for your chance to win your choice of two Tickled Pink digital images!

Tickled Pink Stamps is an Australian based online company that stocks a range of popular and well sought after stamps from many companies all over the world and is always so excited to be supplying you with everything cute, quirky and PINK... They now have their very own Lil Lolita and Lil Lads along with the cute lil Cherrie in both rubber and digital stamps. Tickled Pink Stamps is excited to be sponsoring Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog.

This week we have opened the Sundae Toppings Bar and are featuring Flowers, Lace, Distressing and the Colour Pink! We would like you to show us your creations with at least two of the toppings - of course you can load your Sundae creation with three or four toppings too!

My card used the fabulous image Lil Birthday - Kellita. Don't you just love her? I know you'll be seeing more of her on my blog, because I coloured her up in 3 different sizes before I found one I wanted to use for the challenge this week. I love digi for this...I can make my images fit my project. This card is 4 x 8...just the right size to fit into a #10 business size envelope and perfect for giving a little cash or a paper gift certificate.

Busy day today as we're getting back into the swing of things. Both kids were off school most of last week sick in bed so everyone is moving a little slower this week. Lucky for me, I was able to get into my craft room on Friday and so I have some cards to show you for most of the week and I also have a knitted surprise...when I spend my evenings sitting with sick kids watching Nickelodeon TV I have to do something to keep my brain from going to mush and lately knitting has been my portable craft. And, I have almost assembled the candy for my 2nd Blog-o-versary so I'll be posting about how you can win that this week too!

Have a wonderful day and I look forward to seeing your creations!

Stamps: Tickled Pink Stamps Lil Birthday Kellita, Amy R Birthday Sentiments
Paper: Bo Bunny
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Prima Flowers, Bella Dots

Very Spesch-ial Birthday

2011-02-02T15:33:00.000-05:00

Get it? It's a Spesch stamps...???...not so funny? Oh, a girl can try.

The Rock Star was invited to a birthday party this weekend and of course, no little girl cards in my stash.

So, I pulled out my Birthday Girl stamp from Spesch Stamps and got to work.

The paper is from an old 6x6 Pad that I have called The Sweet Shoppe by DCWV. No real design to this one just took some papers and pulled it together. I like the soft colours...kind of makes me think of spring. Oh, how I am ready for Spring.

I can't give exact stats, but I am sure that this school year the kids have had more indoor "recess" because of cold than any other that I remember. It's good to note that the kids only get to stay inside for recess, or when getting off/on the bus if the temperature falls below -25 degrees Celsius (that's -13 Fahrenheit)...same goes if it isn't that cold but the wind makes it feel that cold. I am so glad that we aren't forced to have recess at work, I just hate this cold. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for an early spring.

Stamps: Spesch Stamps Birthday Girl, Amy R Birthday Sentiments
Paper: The Sweet Shoppe DCWV, CTMH Pink & Green
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Pink Ribbon from Walmart

More Valentines!

2011-01-30T08:00:00.001-05:00

It seems that Valentine's cards are everywhere these days, and I know you'll be seeing a few more from me in the coming weeks! So if you're thinking of making a Valentine's Card be sure to enter it over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog this week for the chance to win some great prizes.

My card uses a fun digital image from Pink Cat Studio's called Squirrel Valentine. Isn't he just darling?

The sketch is courtesy of The Sweet Stop Sketch #91...I made another card a few weeks back with this same sketch, but failed to add a "dry embossing" bit to it so I couldn't enter it for the challenge. I loved the card so much though, that I used the same base for this one.

I am going to enter my card in a few challenges this week:

Paper Play Challenge: Layer It Up!

Scrap Creations: Black + White + Red

Pollycraft Challenge: Black + White + one other

Copic Creations: What's New? (stamp, ribbon, stickles!)

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio Squirrel Valentine, SU Ink sentiment
Paper: Bo Bunny, CTMH Tulip
Ink: Copic Markers, Versamark Black
Accessories: Red Stickles, Ribbon from Joanne's, Zva jewels, Kaisercraft Pearls in red, felt from Michael's, Spellbinders Hearts & Scalloped Hearts

A little note...

2011-01-27T21:47:00.000-05:00

I was asked a few weeks back to make a card for a friend's co-worker who is retiring this week. Since the card will be hand delivered, I was able to add a little bit of dimension...and it was so much fun!

My image was coloured back in November and is a Lily of the Valley image that my friend Crystal sent me back in the early fall.

I used The Sweet Stop's Sketch #92 for my card...you should check it out, it's a great sketch! Instead of a bow, I used a little bit of ribbon and the layered a Prima Flower and a button. I used a small piece of embroidery floss (from my cross-stitching stash) and a glue dot to attach the charm behind the flower and let it hang a little bit.

I am also going to enter my card over at PaperPlay Challenges where they are looking for layers.

Winner! Winner!

2011-01-25T15:24:00.000-05:00

Haha, don't you love that saying "Winner winner, Chicken Dinner!" LOL!

Congrats to dmbennet (Dawn)

I have already contacted her and gotten a response (this girl is quick!).

Ladies, I just have to say thank you so much to everyone who entered...and especially to all my followers. Can you believe that I had 105 comments on my Blog Hop post! WOW! I am amazed and so grateful that you all took the time to visit my blog.

Keep your eye out...the beginning of February marks 2 years in blog land for me...and I'm almost at 100 followers. I've already started planning some super fun candy. Can't wait to tell you all about it.

Danielle
aka. Danderella

Distressed!

2011-01-23T08:00:00.001-05:00

Nope, nothing wrong today...but the challenge over at Paper Sundaes is distressing! We're sponsored by Simon Says Stamps, so enter your distressed card for a chance to win!

My card uses ink distressing. I used a sponge and picked up some ink from a Pansy Purple CTMH pad and then swiped it over the edges of all my papers (that's 11 papers in total..it took a little time!). The image was coloured a while back when I was trying to show the Munchkin that you can sometimes think out side the box when you're colouring. The layout is from Sketch Saturday.

7 weeks and counting. That's 7 weeks until the March Break here. 7 weeks until my kids are gone for 10 days with my parents to Florida. 7 weeks until I don't have to drive to skating 4 nights a week and swimming/diving on Saturdays. It's a big countdown at our house, can you tell? LOL!

It's been SUPER cold here this week. Friday it was -34 Celsius without counting the wind. I'm ready for a little bit of warm, even if it does mean more snow. So, send some warm weather vibes my way, will you?

Stamps: The Greeting Farm, Amy R Stamps Birthday Sentiments
Paper: Cosmo Cricket Mitten Weather, CTMH Seafoam, Pansy Purple
Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Pansy Purple, Versamark Black
Accessories: Spellbinders Eyelet Circles, Large & Small Circles

Paper Sundaes Firsth Birthday Blog Hop!

2011-01-16T08:00:00.042-05:00

Happy Sunday and welcome to Paper Sundaes First Birthday Celebration! If you have arrived here from Fiona's blog, then you are on the right track. If not, please go back and start at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog and hop along so that you don't miss out on any of the gorgeous creations from the Sundae Girls (and a chance to win some yummy candy!). Remember to collect your word and comment on all of the stops so that you are entered for our amazing blog hop prizes! Your last stop will be back at the beginning where you can leave the sentence you collected along the way in the comments section for your chance to win even more!

Our challenge this week is extra special - we would like you to show us your favorite challenge from the past year! I chose Challenge #49 - Cut It Out! I got this cute Dino image from Pink Cat Studios...he was just released on Thursday..isn't he gorgeous!

When we originally did this challenge, I didn't follow the rules (imagine!)..the challenge was to cut your image out with scissors...or at least have something on your creation that is obviously cut with scissors. So, second time around I made sure I did it right. I also used this week's sketch challenge over at The Sweet Stop.

I hope that you are having a great time hopping along. As an added bonus, I am giving away a little candy of my own. Everyone who comments on my blog will get their name entered to win this little prize pack.

It includes 28 - 6x6 papers from We R Memory Keepers Hippity Hoppity Collection (2 of each paper) and 16 images stamped from my collection in Copic friendly Memento Ink. I will ship anywhere in the world, so everyone is welcome to comment and leave their name. And, if you are a follower of my blog, I will enter your name twice! You will have until Saturday Jan 22nd at 5pm to enter...I'll announce the winner Sunday January 23rd.

Next on our blog hop is Crystal. If you're lost, here is the blog hop order:

Danielle (ME!)

Thanks for looking.

P.S. My secret word is FROM

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio Bronty Valentine, Sweet N Sassy Kitchen Sentiments

Paper: Bo Bunny, CTMH Tulip
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento
Accessories: Circle Punches, Bella Dots in Red, Spellbinders Scalloped Hearts Die, Prima flower, Vintage Crochet Trim.

Hello 2011! and an apology.

2011-01-04T20:40:00.000-05:00

Hello from sunny Florida...the family and I are in Miami. The kids are relaxing (read: fighting all day long) while I try to relax (read: ignore their fighting) and hubby hangs around relaxing (read: he's actually relaxing) LOL! We'll be home late on Friday and will spend the weekend getting back into the swing of things. Then, it's back to the grind. I am so not looking forward to returning to Northern Ontario weather. :)

We've been here for a week and I figured it was probably time to check out my blog and how surprised was I to see that the post that I scheduled for last Tuesday..the day we left town...well, it didn't post. After some investigation, I guess in my pre-Christmas stupor, I scheduled it for December 28 2011...a year from now! Oh my! So, here it is...a week late, but better late than never.

When I sat down to do my last card as a Guest Designer for Sweet N Sassy Stamps, I had the Christmas Carols playing...I was singing along...and the urge to do Valentine's struck! Bam! Just like that I packed up all the Christmas papers and pulled out the pinks and reds. I know that we're going to have a few "special" valentines to give away and who doesn't know a soccer fan? Cocoa Loves Soccer is such a perfect image to personalize an otherwise generic valentines card.I used my Cuttlebug to cut the hearts out in a sparkly felt that I found at my local craft store. This card came together very quickly, and I plan on making a few more and using different images like Cocoa Loves Football and Spot The Dog.

A special thanks to Jeanette who asked me to be a Guest Designer and to everyone over at Sweet N Sassy for making this such a wonderful experience. With images as wonderful as these, it made my job a whole lot easier!

Stamps: Cocoa Loves Soccer

Paper: Bo Bunny Crush Collection

Ink: Copic Markers

Accessories: Spellbinders Nested Hearts, Bella Drops in Red, Letter U cut by my Cricut., Sparkly red felt from the craft store.

So, since my post some great things have been happening over at Sweet N Sassy that I wanted to give you a quick "heads up" about. Korin is now offering coloured digis! And the January release is fantastic! So head over there and check them out.

I hope that everyone has had a wonderful holiday and I can't wait to get home and start creating with the new goodies that I got for Christmas. See you in a few weeks.

Danielle

Tasty Treats!

2010-12-21T23:19:00.000-05:00

Have you ever coloured on "auto-pilot"? I did...just days ago, in fact. A few of us girls got together for a night of chatting and colouring and I pulled out this cute Chef Cocoa image and got to work. I chatted more than I coloured...and when I started to assemble this week's Guest DT Sample, I realized that I coloured this like it was a muffin...when in fact, it is a chef's hat... LOL! Can you tell? I think it works both ways, so I used it. Would you know if I didn't tell you?

I used the Kitchen Sentiments with this one as well. My layout is courtesy of this week's Sketch #87 at The Sweet Stop...but no stitching, though I couldn't resist using the sketch! It's hard to tell, but this is actually the front of a Chinese food takeout container. I'll be filling it with goodies tonight and taking it a friend's house for a little Christmas gift.

Stamps: Chef Cocoa, Kitchen Sentiments

Paper: Crate Paper Snow Day Collection, Brown, Pink

Ink: Copic Markers

Accessories: MS Ribbon Loop Border Punch, Misc. Prima Flower, Large Bella Dot in Brown, Hero Arts little hearts, Misc. Ric Rac Ribbon.

Cut It Out!

2010-12-19T08:00:00.005-05:00

Ha Ha...every time I thought about this challenge, I imagined my kids poking at eachother..."cut it out!" Of course, annoying eachother isn't what this weeks challenge at Paper Sundaes is all about...it's about cutting something out. I goofed a little, as it is supposed to be your image that is cut out...but this idea had been rolling around for weeks in my head.

I bought some sparkly felt at Michael's back in November and then stared at it until this week.

I actually had a super time putting this together, and it came together very quickly. Bananastamper was over and the kids were finally quiet and watching a movie so we snuck down to the scrap area and I puttered at this project. How fun it was to finally use some of my old treasures. The letters are from CTMH and came from a pack of Dimensional Elements...I honestly don't remember buying them. The twine was sent to my by Kate over at i {heart} papers when I started on her DT for i {heart} copics. And those little clothespins...been hanging around waiting to be used for almost 2 years...2 YEARS!!!!

So, after this was complete, Bananastamper and I decided that this would make a great teachers gift...whether it was on twine like this one, or pasted onto a holiday piece of paper and made into a nice sign/picture. I think we'll be getting together in January when it's chilly outside and the kids are snuggled up watching movies and make a few of these for next year. It's never too early to get a jump on the Christmas gifts for teachers!

Stamps: NONE! Oh my!

Paper: NONE! What is going on?!
Ink: Ha! NONE!

Accessories: Spellbinders Nested Mittens, Zva Jewels, CTMH Dimensional Elements, Twine, Little Paperclips from the Dollar Store, Prima Flowers Center (in the snowflake), EK Success Snowflake Punch.

Christmas Candy

2010-12-14T06:00:00.003-05:00

Oh my, it seems that I am all "carded" out. Every time I step into my scrap room, I feel the need to make something, just not a card. Lucky for me, I had this cute little mini-paint can sitting waiting for me. I filled it with Christmas M&M's and wrapped it with a quick strip of paper. Then I punched out a snowflake and a tag and added them. I finished it off with some digi images from Sweet N Sassy Stamps: Spot the Dog and Santa's hat. I added some stickles to the snowflake and some Liquid Applique on his hat...I love how it makes it all puffy.

This time of year, there are so many people that my kids would love to give gifts to, and something small and handmade is perfect. It came together very quickly and I can see making more of these to have on hand...just think what we could do with different hats for spot...Birthday's, Valentine's Day, St. Patricks, 4th of July....ooh, this could be fun! My Christmas Spot bucket will be going to the babysitter.

Only 11 days until Christmas!

Stamps: Digi Spot the Dog, Santa Hat

Paper: Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses, CTMH Olive

Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black

Accessories: EK Success Snowflake Punch, SU tag punches, Green Stickles, White Liquid Applique.

Sweet N Sassy!

2010-12-07T06:05:00.001-05:00

Guess What!?! For the whole month of December I am a Guest Designer for Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps. I can't wait to show you the fun I've been having with the new December Digi Release!

Today, I've got a card and a matching gift tag. Snowflake Bear is so cute, he didn't need a lot of colouring, just a little sparkle! I traced his edges with some Crystal Stickles and he pops right off the page.

My favorite thing about digi's is that you can size them to any project. I was able to shrink Snowflake Bear down to fit on my tag, with the To: and From: on the back. My card uses Sketch #84 from The Sweet Stop.

It's darn cold here...-27 celsius with the wind. Didn't anyone tell old man winter that I haven't bought a winter coat yet?

Stamp: Snowflake Bear

Paper: Bo Bunny, CMTH

Ink: Copic Markers B000, B00, B01, B93, B95, B97

Accessories: Spellbinders Lacey Squares, Circles and Scalloped Cirlces, Martha Stewart Snowflake Corner Punch, Misc. Ribbon from my Stash, Zva Jewels

Gift It!

2010-12-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

This week's challenge over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog is to "Gift It"...show us something that you are giving away. This week's sponsor is Stamp and Create. Well, mine is a card, but I have a good explanation. When I was at my scrapping retreat a few weeks ago, I coloured/paper pieced this image. When my friend saw it, she asked if she could have it...you see, it looks like her little girl and their cat. I agreed that it did...and then told her that I would make her a Christmas card using the image. Big deal, right?!? Oh, big deal indeed! I make these cards, but rarely do they actually make it into the hands of any recipients. Up until just recently, I had piles and piles of cards sitting in boxes. So, for a card to actually make it into the hands of the person it was intended for is a big deal! She knows who she is...and it goes in the mail on Monday...so I hope you like it my friend!

20 days until Christmas...are you ready? Seriously, who is?

Stamps: Zoe and Gemma's Snow Fun from Stamp and Create, Amy R Holiday Sentiments

Paper: Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses, CTMH Cranberry, Olive
Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Cranberry
Accessories: Bella Dots in Red, Misc. Pink Ribbon from Walmart, Spellbinders Petite Scalloped Circles, White Fun Flock (on the hats)

Sick Little Mouse

2010-11-29T22:38:00.000-05:00

Oh, when I first saw this image I just had to have it. Sick little Henry Mouse is just too adorable. And, I wanted to focus on the image, and have the option of giving this to a male, so I left off all the bling. Sometimes I think we get so caught up in adding bling that we forget a few simples layers can have the same effect.

Hubby and I made a big score on Saturday...walked into the department store, took 25 minutes and a whole lotta bucks and walked away with our Christmas Shopping complete. What a relief! And on the way home we stopped at the local Butcher and ordered a 20lb Turkey and 10 dozen Perogies for Christmas Dinner, which I host every year. Things are going to be a little slim this year as my parents are going to be in Florida and BananaStamper is taking her family to her parents for Christmas. Normally we're about 22 for dinner, but it looks like we're down to 16 this year. I'm sure that before the day arrives I'll have picked up a few more to feed!

All that's left now is to clean the house (hubby's home so he's been assigned one room every day so it's easier to maintain), decorate the house (hubby has also been assigned this task...he's to set up the tree and then wait for direction), bake 6 different kinds of goodies (the kids will help with this), and make more Christmas Cards! Like a true card maker, I've already started thinking about Valentine's Cards! LOL!

Stamps: Whiff of Joy Sick Henry, Amy R Spring Sentiments
Paper: Echo Park A Walk in the Park
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black
Accessories: Spellbinders Lacey Squares

Adorn Those Corners!

2010-11-28T09:33:00.000-05:00

This week at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog we would like you to 'Adorn Those Corners' of your images! You can adorn your corners with stitching, pearls, die cuts, flowers etc. The possibilities are endless. Our Sponsor this week is Simon Says Stamps.

I chose to make a gift tag...a large one, but that's okay. Don't we all have a few "large" gifts to give every year?!? The image is from Magnolia and I coloured this guy last year just after Christmas and he's been patiently waiting to get onto a project.

I cut him out with my Spellbinders Mitten die and then distressed the background with some CTMH inks. The Sketch is #308 from Splitcoast Stampers...I haven't played along with these in a long time, but it was such a great sketch I couldn't resist. I am also going to enter my card over at All That Scraps Wednesday Challenge - Make a Tag

I made the top of my tag with my Spellbinders Labels 16 and then cut the background by hand. I added Zva jewles to every corner to make the whole thing sparkle.

Stamps: Magnolia

Paper: Bo Bunny Magical Winter
Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Pansy Purple, Indian Corn Blue, Bamboo
Accessories: Spellbinders Mitten Die, Labels 16 Die, Zva Jewels

Sparkly & Bright

2010-11-25T10:23:00.000-05:00

Whew, it's almost the weekend. Today started off a little late, and I decided to just give the kids a break and drive them to school. It snowed last night and is quite warm, so they were able to build a snowman in our yard before I was ready to go...and on the way to dropping them off my Dad phoned to tell me that the buses had been cancelled. The Munchkin was upset because I didn't drive them back home for a snow day. Goodness, the roads were fine once we were out of our subdivision, so I saw no reason for them to stay home.

In the spirit of all this snow, I have a card covered in snowflakes today. This was started months ago, and then hung around on my desk waiting to be finished. I most definitely used a sketch, but it was so long ago and I didn't write it down of course.

I know that pink and brown aren't traditional holiday colours, but I just love them together. You can't really see it, but the big snowflakes are covered with pink glitter, and they really do sparkle quite nicely.

I am going to enter my card in the following challenges:

Fab N Funky: Goin' with the flow

Simon Says Stamp Challenge: Let it Snow

Stamps: Amy R Holiday Sentiments
Paper: We R Memory Keepers
Ink: CTMH Black
Accessories: EK Success Snowflake Punch, MS Snowflake Edge Punch, Cotton Candy Stickles

Paper Sundaes - A Sketch by Shana!

2010-11-21T14:27:00.000-05:00

This week at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog our challenge is sponsored by Paper Jewels. Paper Jewels has an amazing sale on right now on all of the stamp lines they carry! All stamps are Buy 2, Get 1 Free, Buy 4, Get 2 Free, etc. And if that's not enough, the Spesch stamps are priced to clear at only $6.50 each! You can read all of the sale details in her shop. Jenny carries Spesch, CC Designs, Bildmalarna, and Sweet Pea!

What is the challenge you ask? A Sketch by our very own Shana!

When I heard that Jenny was having a sale, I hopped on over to Paper Jewels and bought a few! Included in this bunch was Bonnie - this fun Spesch Stamp. I love her because she is so versatile...I know you'll see her come up on Baby Cards, Birthday Card and Get Well cards in the near future!

I chose to shrink the sketch a little to make it fit an 4.25 x 5.5 card. I paper-pieced Bonnie's little dress and coloured the rest with my copics. The Flower was made using my Spellbinders Poinsettia's dies...so much fun! I am also entering my card over at Crazy 4 Challenges where they want us to Use Circles on our cards.

The snow if flying here again today, so I guess I have to accept the fact that it is here to stay for the winter. I do not like the season of wetness and cold. I wish I could hibernate through this season all together! And big thanks to everyone who sent well wishes...the move at work is almost complete (yes, it has taken 7 working days to move our entire shop...with one more to go) and I am feeling better, even though I don't sound better yet.

Stamps: Spesch - Bonnie, Amy R Holiday Sentiments
Paper: Echo Park Paper - A Walk in the Park, CTMH White, Misc. Cranberry Paper
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black, CTMH Cranberry (for distressing the poinsettia)

Accessories: Spellbinders Poinsettia Dies, Misc. Button, Nestabilities Small Scalloped Circles

Simple Card

2010-11-17T21:01:00.000-05:00

After spending 8 hours colouring, I really wanted to make a card...no really, I spent most of my crop time last weekend just colouring. Anyway, I managed to locate the Get Sketchy sketch this week and went to work. My card also qualifies for Crazy for Challenges as a Christmas card. It's funny, now that I am making my own card, I find that I make a lot that are not religion specific, even though we celebrate Christmas in a religious way. Strange.

As I was thinking about this post, and what I would say, I realized that this is a global card. The black and white paper is SEI and was purchased from i {heart} papers from my friend Kate. The blue paper came from CTMH via BananaStamper. The Nestabilities were purchased from The Paperworks Co and the Sentiment is Amy R Sentiments via The Scrapbooking Cottage. The snowflake punch was a brand new purchase for this weekend from my local Michael's store. The little blue jewel was swiped from my table-mates stash while she was out watching her daughter play hockey (oops, I forgot to tell you about that!).

I'm not sure what all this means...but I know that I have some great friends who own great stores!

Stamps: Amy R Winter Sentiments
Paper: SEI, CTMH
Ink: CTMH Black

Accessories: MS Snowflake punch, Nestabilities Mittens, SU Tag Punch, Blue Jewel from Allyson's stash

Paper Sundaes - finally I'm back!

2010-11-16T21:51:00.001-05:00

This week they have opened the Sundae Toppings Bar and are featuring Punches, Ribbon, Embossing and the Colour Blue! We would like you to show us your creations with at least two of the toppings - of course you can load your Sundae creation with three or four toppings too!

Oh, how I have hated being on hiatus from Paper Sundaes...and I can't guarantee that I'll be able to play every week, but this week I did!

The sponsor this week is Belles n' Whistles stamps....and isn't this little guy just gorgeous!?!

Oh my gosh! When I posted this last night, I totally forgot to link it up to The Sweet Stop...I used their fabulous sketch this week!

Super busy this week moving our offices and shop, so not much to say...plus I've managed to pick up another cold...going on day 5 here...second one this year already....oy!

Stamps: Belles n' Whistles Surprise, CTMH Happy Birthday

Paper: Echo Park Summer line
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Nestabilities, Prima Flowers, Misc. Button

Why I love cards more

2010-11-09T12:23:00.000-05:00

Okay, I have been talking about my knitting projects for a while now, and so I figured I better show you what I can do. I do love to knit...it is something that I can do on a long drive (when I'm not driving of course) and it's a very portable craft. I have been known to pull out my knitting needles and wait in the car while the Munchkin goes in for her piano lesson. :)

This is a hat and mitten set that I made for my cousin's daughter. She'll be 2 in January and is the tiniest little thing. I had this yarn hanging around from the hats that I made the kids in the spring and so I decided to use it up for a Christmas present. I even got smart and measured her head. To give you an idea of how tiny these are, the mitts measure 6 inches from tip to the bottom of the cuff. They're adorable in person.

So, yesterday I took the hat with me to try on her little head (it's been finished for weeks) and lo and behold the darned thing doesn't fit! Argh! It's the first time I've knit with two colours (where the blue dots are) and even though I tried really hard to keep my stitches loose, its too tight at just that one part. And this brings us to why I love making cards more...if I screw up a card, I just start over or cover up the mistake with a flower or other cute embellishment. But with a mis-sized hat, I have to start all over again. *Sigh* Luckily for me, I can knit while the girls are at skating, so it's not a total loss.

It looks like I won't be betting any time in my craft room this week, but I have BIG plans for the weekend. My local LSS hosts a Yap N Scrap every fall, and it's this weekend. So Friday night and for 12 hours on Saturday I will be sitting with my markers and my images and crafting away. I can't wait to make some cards, I think I'm going through card withdrawl! LOL!

Oh, and hey...hop on over to Paper Jewels where Jenny is having a Buy 2 Get 1 Free Sale! Jenny is located in Alberta and is a great lady to deal with. She ships fast and she carries Spesch stamps, CC Designs, Bildmalarna and Sweet Peas! Check it out!

Munckin's Birthday

2010-11-04T11:24:00.000-04:00

Well, I had a grand post pictured in my head, then things went crazy and I forgot to take pictures of the loot bags, so a description will have to do! Here is the invitations that we sent out this year.

Had to keep it simple in the interest of time...no colouring...boo!

Big thanks to Lee-Ann at Snappy Scraps for the initial inspiration for my loot bags. She suggested an "ice-cream sundae" theme, and I actually went in search of items for this but it is totally the wrong season for ice cream so I had to make a few alterations and her is what I finally came up with. The theme for the birthday party was chocolate and so the loot bags was all about Muchkin's Favourite Chocolate Things. I even composed a little song...hum the "My Favourite Things" song from The Sound of Music as you read it...Munchkin can sing it...hmmm, that would make a fun YouTube video...oops, sorry got sidetracked there. Anyway, song is:

Hot Chocolate filled with fluffy white marshmallows

Chocolate Chunk Cookies

And Dairy Queen Ice Cream

Friends celebrating my birthday with me

These are a few of my favourite things!

And the loot bags included an individual packet of hot chocolate, a few mini-marshmallows and a chocolate covered plastic spoon, 3 chocolate chunk cookies and a $5 gift card for Dairy Queen. All these items were placed into a white paper sandwich bag, sealed with a ribbon and then I printed the song out and matted it and used my spellbinders to make it all pretty...if I had just remembered to take a picture...argh. But, you get the picture.

I thought that life might slow down a little, and in some respects it has. Hubby had a CT scan mid-October and the results show no tumour growth, so that is good news. We're working on seizure control right now. The kids have settled into the school routine, and I finally figured out that if I pick the Rock Stars clothes the night before and let her eat a candy after she's dressed in the morning she will dress herself without a meltdown! But, we finally got the keys to temporary location for work, so the next 3 weeks will be filled with thoughts of layouts, moving things and the new office.

Lucky for me, hubby and I are taking off this weekend for 2 days on our own. After that I'm hoping to actually get into my craft room and get some creating done. Until I have some papercrafts to show you, I'm going to post a few of my knitted projects. So, have a great weekend..I plan on sleeping, shopping and sleeping some more. So exciting! LOL!

Halloween & Birthdays

2010-10-29T10:38:00.000-04:00

I know that most people will be posting their Halloween pictures after the event, but I just couldn't resist posting this. The Munchkin started talking in August about how she wants to be a "corpse bride" and so this is the first year that I actually thought ahead and we made the costume...most years I'm scrambling a few days before at the store trying to find something that will fit.

Anyway, the gown and veil were both purchased at the Salvation Army...for $20 complete. The creepy crawlys were $10 at the Dollarama (we bought a lot of them) and I had to buy new glue sticks for my hot glue gun. I used some old makeup to complete the look...and voila...a corpse bride!

Funniest picture you ever saw...8 year old in a wedding dress with a big gaudy veil, walking on the sidewalk carrying her pink knapsack! LOL! I should have gotten a picture of that, but we were laughing too hard!

Oh, and I guess I should show you a card too. I got the layout for this one from a card that Lisa Stenz posted on her blog here.

I have a bunch of pretty scraps that I'm hoping to use up in the next few weeks to make a whole bunch of birthday cards for my stash.

I'm looking forward to this weekend, as it is the end of our busy season. Saturday we start the day bright and early, getting the house ready for the birthday party...then we head off to diving and swimming for a few hours. Back to the house for lunch and food prep...then Munchkin and I take off for the kid party, while the Rock Star and Dad finish up getting ready for the family party. Munchkin and I will return for the family party...more food, cake and gifts...and then we'll all fall into bed exhausted. But...once Halloween is done, I have nothing else major on the books until Christmas! Woohoo!

A Treat For You

2010-10-25T21:25:00.000-04:00

Holy smokes, I made it on the computer! I can't believe that it has been 9 days since my last post...where has the time gone? These are the last of the Halloween cards that I had made up a number of weeks ago.

The image is from Inky Impressions and she's just a versatile little fairy isn't she! I can totally see myself stamping her up and colouring her for Christmas cards too! The paper on both is Basic Grey and the fun spiderweb punch is from Martha Stewart. My apologies for the quality on this second photo...I was trying to get the sparkle's and stickles to show and of course the card was gone weeks ago, so I had to work with the photo that I took.

I really do miss blogging when I'm not around here. I frequently steal moments during the workday and check out blogs...and sometimes I even steal a whole hour and make comments...Shhhh...don't tell my boss! LOL! This week should be the last of the chaos for a while.

Munchkin turns 8 next Monday, so we are having a fun "friends" birthday party Saturday afternoon and the "family and friends" party will follow immediately after and will include dinner. I've still not decided on loot bags, so help me out with some suggestions. I'd like to keep it under $10 each as I have 10 of these to make. The theme is Chocolate as the party is a Chocolate Spa party, hosted by a local spa where the girls will be making Chocolate Body Scrub, Chocolate Lip Gloss, giving each other Chocolate hand massages and we'll finish it off with a Chocolate pudding eating contest! Great fun I'm sure, but I'd like to keep with the chocolate theme for the loot bags.

To give you an idea of what I generally do for loot bag, 2 months ago when the Rock Star turned 5, the loot bag was a "Movie Night in a Bag" theme - 1 bottle of flavoured water, a bag of microwave popcorn, a box of Smarties and a $5 gift certificate to a local movie rental place. Voila, Movie Night in a Bag.

With Halloween the day after the party, I'm very conscious of not just filling the bag with different kinds of Chocolate. However, the last 2 years for Munchkin's loot bags we've done either Bath Bombs or Bubble Bars from Lush...great, but with some of the same kids I want to switch it up...so help me out...what could I include in a Chocolate Loot Bag?

Bewitching!

2010-10-14T16:18:00.000-04:00

Ooh, this card looks so dark and scary, but really it's not! I only have a few Halloween cards left to post, and I think I'm going to sneak in a quick and simple birthday card tomorrow. Sketch is Mojo#158

The hard part about making Halloween cards so far in advance is that I am all "Halloween'd" out! LOL!

Last night the kids, my Mom and I went in search of costumes at the Value Village and the Salvation Army. Total success. The Munchkin is going to be a "Creepy Bride" and we picked up a very gaudy ivory coloured wedding dress and the most horrific looking veil I've ever seen. She loves it! We will have to shorten the skirt about 18 inches (she's only 8 after all) and add some creepy crawly critters and cobwebs and dirt to complete the outfit. Can't wait to take pictures of this costume once it is complete.

The Rock Star is going to be Horton...I know, you're thinking "who"...and that's exactly what I thought when I saw her in the costume. It fit's perfectly...a very nice Elephant costume...and when I asked are you going to be an Elephant, she said "No, I'm Horton!...you know, from Horton Hears a Who?!?!" Kids, they are so creative! Of course, this elephant costume is perfect for our Northern Halloweens, it will fit perfectly over her snowsuit should the snow fly on Halloween night. However, it will be much too warm for the school celebration so she managed to find a little jacket with a hoodie that is a Cow, and so with a nice pair of black pants from home we'll have a Cow costume too. She keeps running around the house with this thing on, bumping into us and saying "Moooooove!" LOL! Too cute...and the best thing is we got all this for under $35...all 3 costumes...what a deal!

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio Digi Itty Bitty Betty Broom Ride, Amy R Spooky Sentiments

Paper: Basic Grey Eerie
Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Black
Accessories: Prima Black Flowers, Doodlebug fuzzy brad, Velour RicRac, Basic Grey Brads

Trick or Treat!

2010-10-13T08:33:00.000-04:00

Here are a couple more Halloween cards that I made. Love these fun digi images from Pink Cat Studio!

Sketch is an old one...Inspirational Card Sketches#81. Oh, and how much do you love my fabulous orange Velvet ric rac ribbon?

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio, Amy R Stamps Spooky Sentiments
Paper: Basic Grey Eerie, CTMH Orange
Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Black
Accessories: Misc. Flowers, Orange Velvet RicRac Ribbon, Misc. orange brads

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-10-11T20:33:00.000-04:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian Friends. My parents moved into the "family room" this past week, so hubby and I were able to enjoy the day relaxing on the couch after 2 days of family dinners - I am totally turkey'd out...but no pumpkin pie anywhere this year. Go figure!

Anyway, I made this card weeks ago. I used a sketch, but of course, I didn't write down which sketch...so I take no credit for the layout.

I love that little pumpkin...so quick and easy, just cut out some ovals and run them through the cuttlebug and voila, a pumpkin! Paired with these fun gold sparkly leaves, it makes a great card.

Stamps: Amy R Fall Sentiments
Paper: Basic Grey Eerie Paper Pad, CTMH Olive
Ink: CTMH Black
Accessories: Cuttlebug, Fancy Tags Die, Oval Nestabilities, Swiss Dots Embossing Folder, Recollections Mulberry Paper Holly Leaves, Misc. Ribbon

Halloween Birthday

2010-10-06T09:57:00.001-04:00

Hi there! It's been a while. I haven't spent a lot of time in my craft room the last few weeks, but I did manage to make this card for a friend. Her grand-daughter is turning 2 on Oct 30th and she requested a kid appropriate Halloween Birthday card! Whew!

I used Sweet Stop Sketch #76 for this week. Did you know that October 2 is a World Card Making Day? Well, now you know. :)

I will also be entering my card in the following challenges:

Stamp Something - Something to Celebrate

Crafy Catz - Birthday card with Sparkle

Delightful Challenges - Green, Purple, Black

The Pink Elephant - something childhood - what is more childlhood than Halloween?

Stamps: CC Designs Birgitta, Amy R Birthday Sentiments
Paper: Halloween paper from way back!
Ink: Copic Markers, Black Memento, CTMH Clover Leaf
Accessories: Basic Grey green brads, MS Web Punch, Misc. Black Ribbon

Fall Colours

2010-09-20T17:59:00.000-04:00

This week over at Paper Sundaes, the challenge is to use fall colours. This Cosmo Cricket paper fit the bill perfectly, and my Tilda holding some Fall Mums coloured up nicely. The layout is courtesy of Sketch Saturday.

Things are starting to get busier around here, if that is at all possible. Munchkin started Piano and Diving last week and the Rock Star started Kindermusik again. It feels like the weekend's are busier than the weekdays sometimes! LOL!

Stamps: Magnolia Fall Tilda, Amy R Stamps Autumn Sentiments

Paper: Cosmo Cricket Earth Love, CTMH Bard Red, Misc. Yellow Paper
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black
Accessories: MS Punch, Bella Dots, Spellbinders Labels One Dies, Prima Flower, Misc. Button

Oh Edward!

2010-09-14T04:03:00.001-04:00

Well, it's been a few months since I watched a Twilight movie, although I am an avid Fan Fiction Reader. One of my favourite writers, BellaFlan, is Canadian and she writes some pretty crazy stuff! Anyway, turns out her birthday is the same as Bella Swan's...September 13th. Some girls in FanFic world get together and had a big birthday thing for her. My contribution, of course, was a card...this card to be exact.

I have no idea who the paper is from, but it was perfect. The piano is from Magnilia and of course Edward is The Greeting Farm. Oh, how I love a man in a suit with a nice crisp red tie. Now, when I was trying to use a sketch, I kept flipping between two of them...The Sweet Stop #73 and Card Patterns # 81

I rotated the Card Patterns sketch tot he left...can you see both sketches like I can? Sometimes my brain is on overload and I see things that aren't really there. Well, I am taking a little bit of creative licence and am entering my card in both challenges. I'll also be entering my card in the following challenges:

Stamp & Create: pearls & gems
Sir Stampalot: distressed

For Fun Challenges: Black, White and 1 Colour

Fab 'n' Funky Challenges: What'eva!

Stamps: The Greeting Farm, Magnolia, Amy R Birthday Sentiments
Paper: ??
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black
Accessories: Zva Jewels, Punches by SU, Pewter Brads, Misc. Black Ribbon

Lists, lists and more lists!

2010-09-12T08:02:00.000-04:00

It feels like we make a lot of lists these days...lists for groceries, school forms that need to be filled out, things to pick up at the store, Christmas present lists, items we have to complete before the snow flies...you get the idea. And really, lists are great...when you remember to use them, LOL!

This week over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog we are asking you to use at least 3 different types of embellishments on your card. I used Kaisercraft Gems, Pearls and of course, Prima Flowers. I inked up this fun Belles and Whistles image with the intention of using a totally different sentiment.

I was going to use: Cleaning your house while your children are growing

is like shoveling snow while it's still snowing.

But...I just couldn't make it work with two big stamps in the front of my card. So, I chose this thank you sentiment. In the end, I think I like this better...it makes it more of a generic thank you card than the previous saying would have.

Things are busy here today. We've got registration for Figure Skating and then an outside birthday party. If all goes well the kids will come home, have a bath and go straight to bed. :)

Stamps: Belles 'n Whistles, Amy R Thank You Sentiments
Paper: My Minds Eye
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Prima Flowers, Kaisercraft Gems & Pearls, Martha Stewart Lattice Punch

Hello Pumpkin!

2010-09-08T18:59:00.000-04:00

Holy geez, I've really gotten into the Halloween swing of things! And really, who wouldn't with the great digital images I got from Pink Cat Studio?! They are just perfect for some fun Halloween cards. This is another of the bunch I am making for my friend.

The Paper is from my stash...I believe I got it a few years back. Layout is courtesy of Inspirational Card Skethes...but I have posted it too late to link up...darn it!

I will be entering my card in the following challenges

Delightful Challenges: 2 Cute 2 Spook

Fab N Funky: Whateva!

Stamp Something: Cute

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio Froggy Fun
Paper: Misc. Halloween Stash
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Bella Dots in Orange, Halloween ribbon from the stash too!

Hope You're Better Soon!

2010-09-07T15:43:00.000-04:00

I was asked weeks ago by a friend to make a get well card for her. And then, I borrowed this great Lily of the Valley stamp from my friend Donna and let it just sit there for a while. Finally, when hubby gave me some time on the weekend I was able to find my mojo and this card was born.

Now, I do not take all the credit for it. I was inspired by Lindsey's Card, which she tells me started out as a Sketch Saturday card, but morphed into her own creation...so I guess it's a "six-degrees of separation" kind of card. No matter how I got there, I just love it.

I was finally able to use the My Mind's Eye papers that I purchased from The Scrapbooking Cottage back in the spring. Thankfully, I stamped up a bunch of these images, so I'll be able to make a few cards for my stash....if I could just find the time.

And, most of you know I post these from work...today is the first day back to school for my kids. Rock Star is starting Senior Kindergarten and Munchkin is in 3rd Grade - both girls are in French Immersion, but this will be Rock Stars first day in the French program...I can't wait to hear what she has to say! And Munchkin is so excited...she just kept repeating, "I can't believe I'm in 3rd grade!" Sadly, I remember thinking the same thing not too long ago!

Stamps: Lily of the Valley

Paper: My Mind's Eye
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Prima Flowers, Kaisercraft Pearls, SU Tag Punch, Pink Ribbon from Walmart

Rock Star turns 5!

2010-09-06T14:39:00.000-04:00

Whew...thank goodness August is over! It is such a busy month for us. 3 birthdays (Me, my mom and the Rock Star), back to school shopping, the daycare is closed and we usually throw a car trip in there just for fun. This year we stuck close to home and with the warm weather it was great just to hang out in the yard most days. Because our back yard gets the afternoon and evening sun, it is usually quite warm and the 8 foot fences that surround it protect us from most of the wind that blows...it will often be 20 degrees Celsius in the front year, but 30 in the back yard....very nice!

Anyway, we have always done a birthday party at the house for the Rock Star. This year, we decided to do exactly what we did last year...less planning for me. So, I phoned the Bouncy Castle guy and booked it. We are especially lucky because he lives in the neighborhood, so even though the party is from 1 - 4 pm, he drops it off just before noon and doesn't come back to pick it up until close to 6pm! Evey year we invite the neighborhood kids to come and play before and after the party. Thank goodness we have a big backyard!

Every year, at my cousin's house, my girls comment on how my cousin makes the birthday cake for her kids. I always buy mine at Safeway...I just love their icing...and really for the $$ it's totally worth it. However, this year I was convinced to make the cake. Many hours went into the planning and preparation of this cake. Despite my initial attempts to make a Princess Cake (I used to decorate cakes...long before I had kids...and I used all the techniques that you see now) out of Color Flow Icing, that idea was scrapped and the Cupcake Tower was born.

Can you believe that I found the Happy Birthday candles at the Dollarama? Amazing what you can get for a buck! Thankfully the Rock Star loved it. Here she is enjoying the cupcake from the top.

No, she didn't get really dirty beforehand. That's part of the party...I have some experience as a clown and so every year I try to incorporate that into the party. Last year there were balloon animals, but the balloons kept popping, so this year I pulled out the face paints and everyone got their face painted. I did find though, that 4 & 5 years old is the last year I am going to be able to do a partly like this...where we just basically invite everyone over and the kids entertain themselves. They were definitely looking for some "activities" so next year will be a whole new adventure.

I'll be back tomorrow with a card...amazing what I can accomplish with a few hours in my craft room!

Happy Labor Day to those who have it off.

Spooky Sunday!

2010-09-05T13:05:00.001-04:00

Happy long weekend to you! After a hectic week, I need the break. Fortunately, hubby was feeling tired and the Rock Star was wanting to watch a movie, so I was able to escape to the scrap room for 3 whole hours yesterday....yes, 3 uninterrupted hours! It was bliss! The Munchkin has gone to camp for the weekend with a friend, and so taking care of one is not so challenging for him....or me for that matter.

A few weeks ago, a friend of a friend asked me to make her 7 Halloween cards...and this is the first one. I bought these fun digital stamps from Pink Cat Studio specifically for this order. My layout is CardPatterns Sketch #80. The Challenge this week over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog is to use 2 different mediums on your card. This was quite a challenge for me, as I just can't image making a card with anything but copics. So, my second medium is chalk...and I chalked orange around my little witch to make her pop off the page, what do you think?

I know that most of the world is already back to school, and I am so excited for my kids to start again this week, although they have a very different feeling about the whole thing. I am looking forward to routine, to knowing where they are and that I don't have to pick them up. Hubby is home full-time now and is working on his cooking skills, so I am also looking forward to coming home to dinner most days. Our fall activities don't start for a few weeks, so there is actually some down time that I am hoping to take advantage of.

I have pictures of the Rock Star's birthday party last week, they just haven't been loaded off the memory card. I made her cake this year...the first time since I had kids that I made the cake. It was so much more work than I wanted, but she loved it and that's what matters really.

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio Itty Bitty Betty, Amy R Sentiments
Paper: Reminisce DP, CTMH Orange & Black
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black
Accessories: Brand Spanking New Martha Stewart Punch, CTMH Chalks, Queen & Co. Black Dots.

A Paper Sundaes Sketch

2010-08-22T13:24:00.000-04:00

Hey there. It's been a while hasn't it. Hmmm...what's been going on here that makes me a delinquent blogger? Life...imagine! I started working 1/2 days a few weeks back and even though I thought that it would make for more time at home, the exact opposite is true. I feel like I am always behind at home and at work...not just at work now! Yikes. Thank goodness hubby is at home with the kids each morning so that I can go to work and not get too far behind. Plus, just thinking about back to school is stressing me out!

But...I was able to find a few minutes in the craft room to put together a card for this week's Paper Sundaes Challenge - a sketch by Crystal! And, what a great sketch it is...super easy and very versatile...I will definitely be using this one again.

This week's sponsor is Paper Jewels. Paper Jewels carries several different stamp lines including Spesch, CC Designs, Bildmalarna and Sweet Pea Stamps. Jenny's prices are fantastic, and she also offers free shipping worldwide on all orders over $50. And she's in Canada...so shipping is super fast!

Stamps: CC Designs, Amy R Holiday Sentiments
Paper: Oooh, I forget...Doodlebug I think...it was in the scrap bin, CTMH Sweetleaf
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Stickles....green, red, gold and clear!, Misc. Buttons

Sparkles Chistmas Card Challenge

2010-08-15T14:11:00.000-04:00

This is my second post for today. Looking for my Paper Sundaes Challenge post? Click here or scroll down.

I am super excited to tell you that I am the guest designer this week over at Sparkles Christmas Card Challenge --- so much fun! This week's Challenge is to use Border Punches somewhere on your card.

I can't believe that August is already 1/2 over...we're that much closer to Christmas...and this year I'll have a variety of cards to choose from rather than rushing through making the same card for days in December!

Stamps: Amy R Stamps Holiday Sentiments
Paper: Imaginisce, CTMH Parchment, Cranberry

Ink: CTMH Barn Red & Olive for distressing edeges of Flower, Black

Accessories: Fiskars Border Punch, Stickles, SU Tag punch, SU Ribbon

A Recipe Challenge

2010-08-15T08:00:00.005-04:00

Today's challenge over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog is a Recipe Challenge: 2 patterned papers, 3 buttons and 4 flowers. And, we're sponsored by Meljen's Designs...a fabulous digital stamp company.

I used Friday Sketchers Sketch #115 for my card, and I cracked open a new We R Memory Keepers paper pad. Love these fun and bright colours for this card. The Sentiment is Stamping Bella.

My card also qualifies for the following challenges:

Res-Q Challenge - Flash those Pearlies, show a smile!

Stamp Something: Fairytale Somethings (she is a fairy after all!)

Stamps: Meljen's Designs Joy, Stampingbella Sentiment
Paper: We R Memory Keepers Hippity Hoppity, CTMH Hollyhock, White
Ink: Memento Black, Copic Markers
Accessories: Prima Flowers, Misc. Buttons, Big Brad.

Mojo Monday - and a cupcake

2010-08-12T16:27:00.000-04:00

Okay, here is the card I was supposed to show you yesterday. It was finished on Monday but life has been so crazy that I didn't get time to take a picture until this afternoon...Thusday! Ack!

Anyway, I used Mojo Sketch #151 for my card. I am actually going to send this card to my BFF Kelly who

lives far away and I totally missed her birthday last month. I know she understands, but I hate that I didn't send anything.

My card also qualified for the following challenges:

Crazy 4 Challenges - use a cupcake in your creation

Fab N Funky - use your favorite colours (I love pink and black together)

Thanks for looking...I'll have a Disney Princess card tomorrow!

Stamps: CC Designs, Stamping Bella Sentiment
Paper: Bo Bunny, CTMH Watermelon, Black
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black

Accessories: Misc. Black Ribbon, Fiskars Threading Water Punch.

Some Blog Awards

2010-08-11T10:10:00.000-04:00

Wow! I am such a lucky girl to have great Blog friends. Today, I received 2 awards...how exciting!

The Cherry on Top Award was given to me by Snappy Scraps and you really need to check out her blog to see the amazing cards she makes with her Cricut. Amazing stuff!

Rules of the award state that I must tell you 3 things I love about myself.

1. I can cook...I just don't take the time...but really I'm quite good at it.

2. I take birthday's seriously...especially where my kids are concerned...parties only last a few hours but the memories last forever.

3. My mind is like a steel trap...I remember everything! LOL!

And, here are 5 Blogs that I love and think deserve this award too!

Loopy Lindsey's Crafting Corner

For the Love of Paper

Nana' (s)crap

My Cardmaking Haven

The Scrapbooking Cottage

Take a few minutes to check them all out...each offers something unique and always inspiring.

The second award I received was from Monique over at For the Love of Paper...this girl has some amazing talent (and a nice motorcycle! LOL!) so be sure to check out her creations.

Rules for this award are:

1. Post the award on your blog - check.

2. Link back to the person who awarded it to you - check

3. Follow that Blog - already done!

3. Choose 15 favourite blogs - No problemo

In no particular order, here are 15 blogs that I visit regularly.

As a side note, I really need to get better at commenting...'cause even though I visit these ladies most every day, I don't generally leave comments, so my goal for the next little while is to do just that!

Stay tuned...I should have something crafty to post later today.

Paper Sundaes - It's Charming!

2010-08-08T20:37:00.000-04:00

This week at Paper Sundaes, the challenge is to use metal on your project. I chose to use this great Umbrella Charm which I purchased at this week's sponsor Stamp & Create. I used this week's sketch over at Get Sketch and my card came together quite nicely. I had to alter it a little bit, as the sentiment just wouldn't fit where it was supposed to.

In fact, I liked it enough I made a second one which more closely follows the sketch.

Stamps: Amy R Stamps Spring Sentiments

Paper: Bo Bunny Ocean Dot & Sugar Dot, White Bazzill, Misc. Black

Ink: CTMH Black

Accessories: White Ribbon from Walmart, Misc. Black Brads, Charm from Stamp & Create

Stitching at Paper Sundaes

2010-08-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

Good morning! This week over at Paper Sundaes the challenge is Stitching. I tried to do a little "doodling" with my stitching...it looks much nicer in person. I can't say that I'm overly thrilled with the result, but I think that with time and a little practice I could see using stitching on my cards more often.

I didn't put a sentiment on this one, 'cause sometimes it's nice to have a few blank cards hanging around. This could easily be a thank you or birthday or how are you card. And, I finished the inside to match the front.

So, I literally finished this card minutes before I was leaving town for the night...a few friends and I are headed to do some shopping in the US. Can't wait to spend some time just relaxing. Kiddo's are back today, so things are gonna get hectic again.

Stamps: Belle's N' Whistles
Paper: Bo Bunny Petal Pushers, Core'dinations Cardstock
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Nestabilities, CTMH Brads, Prima Flower, Floss from the Dollar Store

Fabulous Friday in 3-D!

2010-07-30T10:03:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday! This week over at i {heart} copics the challenge is to create something in 3D. I struggled with this one for a bit...but once I got started it came together really quickly. I found a quick tutorial on how to make an origami box and fashioned the lid to match. Then I coloured up my Chicken Girl Designs image and decorated the box with My Mind's Eye papers.

Once the box was complete, I printed out more of my Chicken Girl Designs digital images and made some cute 4x4 cards to fit in the box. The plan is to give the box and the cards to my Munckin, who wants to make cards just like her Mom. This way, the cards are already made, she just has to personalize them by colouring the image and signing the inside. Here us a picture of the whole ensemble.

Super fun to make, and a great gift idea for the kid who has everything.

Copics used:

Stamps: Chicken Girl Designs

Paper: My Mind's Eye Ooh La La For Her

Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Misc. Pink Ribbon.

Weddings @ i {heart} copics

2010-07-28T17:06:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge over at i {heart} copics is to make a wedding card. I had this image hanging around from an image swap about a year ago and was so happy to finally use it. There is still time to participate, so hop on over to Papercraft Planet and submit your wedding card too!

To add a little shing to the card, I used Stickles on her dress and lots of Kaisercraft Jewels.

Copics used:

Stamps: The Greeting Farm
Paper: CTMH Grey Flannel, Baby Pink, White

Ink: Copic Markers

Accessories: Stickles, Kaisercraft Jewels, Embossing Folder, Spellbinders Tags

Birthday Invites

2010-07-26T21:51:00.000-04:00

Aaaahhh...the satisfaction of completing something ahead of time...way ahead of time! My Rock Star will be turning 5 at the end of August and we have to plan her birthday early so that I can get invitations made and delivered to the daycare before it closes for the month of August. So, that was first on my agenda this week with the kiddo's gone...and I can happily check it off my list!

The stamp set I used belongs to BananaStamper...who wasn't home but I borrowed it...thanks girl! I random stamped the light pink paper, 'cause plain pink was just too plain. Here's a pick off all the invitations together. The information is on the back of the card, rather than make it a folded card.

It has been stinkin' hot here and I'm loving it! It's supposed to continue all week, and I am glad...I'll take too hot over too cold any day. Hubby has 2 different doctor's appointments tomorrow, so hopefully I'll get some time in the craft room between appointments before I have to go to work. Oh this day job, it gets in the way of my crafting! LOL!

Stamps: CTMH It's Your Day, Imaginisce It's a Shore Thing Flip Flops
Paper: Imaginisce It's a Short Thing, CTMH Baby Pink, Hollyhock, Indian Corn Blue, Tulip
Ink: CTMH Tulip, Hollyhock, Black
Accessories: CTMH Cranberry Ribbon, Kaisercraft Jewels in Pink, Nestabilities Circles and Scalloped Cirlces

Back to School Challenge at Paper Sundaes

2010-07-25T17:42:00.000-04:00

Can you believe that we're almost halfway through the summer already?! I am always amazed at how quickly the time passes, especially as my kids get older. So, in recognition of the upcoming school year, the girls over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog have challenged us all to make something with a Back to School theme.

Every year I tell the Munchkin that I'm going to make her a bookmark...and this year I actually did! I've put these together and I plan to include them in her lunch on the first day of school, so she'll have a nice surprise from me.

I took the pictures before I sealed them, as there would have been a lot of glare, but I would recommend using laminating pouches to seal bookmarks when you make them....nothing like a Jewel or brad getting caught and ripping the pages of a beloved book!

These bookmarks are quick and easy to make, and also make great additions to birthday gifts...and they use of little scraps of paper that you might have hanging around. FYI - my bookmarks at 2.5 x 6 inches.

Thanks for stopping by today. I spent almost 3 hours cleaning/organizing my scrap room today and I am so exhausted...which leaves me almost too tired for crafting. I'm craving my pillow and a good book....and since the kids aren't around I may just retire early and snuggle up with a book.

Stamps: My Favorite Things I {heart} books
Paper: My Mind's Eye Ooh La La for Her, Misc. Kraft Cardstock
Ink: Memento Black Ink, Copic Markers
Accessories: Dollarstore sticky jewels

Inspiration Challenge Winner!

2010-07-24T16:05:00.002-04:00

Here was the inspiration:

Here is my take on it:

And here are the entries...to see more, click on their names to visit their blogs

And Randon Generator says the winner is: #1 Congratulations Lindsay.

If someone knows how I can get that Random Generator thing into my blog that would be fabulous....but I'm hoping you all trust me. No worries though, everyone will be getting a little something for entering.

I'll be back later today with a fun Back to School entry for the Paper Sundaes Challenge.

Get Well #3

2010-07-22T09:47:00.000-04:00

I anyone going to enter my inspiration challenge? I have a New Moon candle and some stamps waiting for the winner! There's still time to enter.

This is the third card that I made for my friend who needed a get well card. This one is super plain, but sometimes that's what works. The image is from Bugaboos Stamps, and is digital. There is another one that I purchased, and will hopefully be making some cards with next week.

Speaking of next week...did I tell you the kiddo's will be gone for 8 days? My parents are taking them out sailing and they'll be gone for 8 glorious days. I plan on making a whole bunch of cards, pre-making some DT cards and making invitations to the Rock Star's birthday party at the end of the month.

BT Update - all scans showed no growth and that the BT is dormant, which basically means that there is no activity right now. We'll go back again in 3 months for another scan and then we can compare those to the first ones in May and go from there. Other than that good news, the trip was a big flop. Tuesday night, we walked and walked and walked and then it turns out the Richtree Marketplace is under construction and won't be opening until end of August. So, off to the hotel we go. Finally at 9pm we ordered room service (best onion soup I've ever eaten) and I crashed in bed at 10pm. Up at 6 am to get to the hospital for 7:30, and when we arrive, they tell us that they don't have our booking...we aren't in the computer at all. WHAT!?! So, we have to wait an hour and a half until the rest of the hospital arrives and begin to sort out the mess. Finally at 9:30 he gets taken in for scans...that take 1.5 hours. Then we go to the Surgeons office and wait until 1:30 to see the Surgeon. Finally make it out of there at 2:15...4 hours later than scheduled. Rush into a cab to make it to Eaton's Centre to visit the Disney Store....and....prepare yourself.....the mug selection sucked! Sucked beans! Not regular sucked...I would have bought something....Ugh...so disappointed. So, the kids got t-shirts and that's it. We wandered the mall for a bit and then decided to head for the airport. So, I didn't get my fresh-made Belgian Waffle with Strawberries and Whipped Cream and I didn't get a new mug. I'm thinking...forget weight loss...I'm asking the kids to get me a waffle maker for my birthday, along with the new housecoat I asked for. Asking for a housecoat makes me feel old...somehow, asking for a waffle maker does not. Hmmm.

Thanks for reading my rant. I'll be back tomorrow with a fresh card!

Stamps: Bugaboo Nurse Margaret
Paper: CTMH Indian Corn Blue, Outdoor Demin, Misc. Kraft Paper
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Misc. Buttons, CTMH Ribbon, CTMH brads, circle punch

Get Well #2

2010-07-21T08:00:00.003-04:00

Interested in participating in my fun photo inspiration challenge? Hop on over here for all the details.

So, here is the second Get Well card that I made. Quick and easy to put together. No sketch here, just slapped it on the card LOL!

The hard thing for me about making cards for men/boys is not putting any flowers on. It's been a while since I inked up any of my Riley the Moose stamps. I forgot how super easy he is to colour....you just might be seeing more of this guy!

Hopefully while you're reading this I'm shopping in downtown Toronto and all the tests/appointments are done. The only store that I really want to get to is the Disney Store. Sometimes I pick up trinkets off the clearance shelf to add to kids gifts...I'm sure I'll be sorting through lots of Princess and the Frog and Toy Story 3 stuff. And, every time I visit the Disney store I pick myself up a new mug for work...you know the big one's they sell. Frist one I picked up was Winnie the Pooh, then Minnie Mouse...I wonder what I'll find this time.

Stamps: Car Riley, Bella Sentiment
Paper: Misc. Scraps
Ink: Copic markers
Accessories: CMTH Chocolate brads

Get Well #1

2010-07-20T08:05:00.001-04:00

To participate in my fun photo inspiration challenge, hop on over here for all the details.

Here is the first get well card that I made for my friend. The image is the one that I coloured for yesterday's card, I just couldn't get it to fit. The layout is from Sketch Saturday, but I took a little creative licence.

I ordered this fun stamp from Pink Cat Studio moons ago and finally inked him up. He is a super fun image, and with cold and flu season mere months away I'm thinking that I'll be making a few extra get well cards to have on hand. Note I said thinking, not actually doing. :)

Today we are leaving in the late afternoon for Toronto for hubby to have some details scans done. They aren't until early tomorrow morning though, so we'll arrive, drop our bags at the hotel and then go to my favorite restaurant in Toronto...Richtree Market. Keep your fingers crossed it doesn't rain, I'm hoping to walk to and from the hotel to burn off the Belgian Waffle with lots of strawberries and whipped cream that I'm eating for dessert!

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio Sick Billy

Paper: CTMH Emporium, Buttercup, Sweetleaf, Twilight
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Misc. brads, Nestabilities Squares

Photo Inspiration Challange - My Entry

2010-07-19T19:27:00.001-04:00

This is my second post for today...scroll down to see my previous post.

Check out my post here, for all the details on my inspiration challenge. Here's the photo:

Here is my entry...what do you think?

I used the sketch over at Just Magnolia - Week 64, and it turns out my card qualifies for The Pink Elephant too, whose challenge is brown this week. This is totally not the card that I went into my craft room to create right now, but I was inspired...what can I say?

Stamps: Magnolia, Bella Sentiment

Paper: CTMH White, Taffy, Chocolate
Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black
Accessories: Prima Flowers, Misc. Buttons, Stickles, Sizzix embossing folder Nestabilities ovals and scalloped ovals.

Get Well Soon...sort of

2010-07-19T13:24:00.000-04:00

'k, so last Tuesday a friend asked me to make her a "get well" card for her co-worker/friend who had recently had a liver transplant. Lucky for me I had next few evenings free and so I cleaned off my scrap table and got to work...sort of. First, I popped on over to the OCC Sketch Blog and found Sketch #24. I pulled out my papers, coloured my image and started to assemble, but it just wasn't coming together fo rme.

So, I kept the card base, lost the image (saved it for future use) and came up with this Sympathy card...something you never want to make in a pinch.

So, I guess you're wondering what happened to the Get Well card, right? Honestly? I just wan't feeling it, so I made other cards all week! LOL! Finally on Sunday night I buckled down and made 3 cards for her to choose from. They are scheduled to post over the next few days.

I have a special challenge for you...something that was started by my friend Loopy Lindsey...a challenge of sorts. She posted this picture on her blog and asked me "What could you do with that?" Seriously...what couldn't I do with that? LOL!

Let's firmly establish something right now....I AM TEAM EDWARD!

However, I am not one to pass up a good challenge...and I'd like for you to join me. So, take this poster as your inspiration and make something - it doesn't have to involve twilight, I know mine won't. Post a link back in the comments on this post and I'll send one random person some goodies...may or may not be twilight related. :) Invite your friends to play along too, the more the merrier!

Let's give it a deadline of midnight on Friday July 23rd and I'll post the winner on Saturday. Oh, and I'll be back with my own entry before the week is up. Happy Monday!

Stamps: Verve Stamps Forever in Our Hearts

Paper: CTMH Emporium, Colonial White
Ink: CTMH Cocoa
Accessories: Prima Flower, Misc. Button, CTMH Twilight Brads

Paper Sundaes - Make your own flowers

2010-07-18T10:54:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge over at Paper Sundaes is to make your own flowers. I used my Cuttlebug and Spellbinders Poinsetta dies to cut out this fun flower to go with my Lily of Vally image.

I checked out the Lily of the Valley Challenge Blog and used their sketch this week for my card. Copics used are below

Thanks to everyone who left pros and cons on the "going wolf" debate. No big post today...I'm exhausted. I'll be back tomorrow with a new card though, as there has been lots of creating going on here.

Stamps: Lily of the Valley Bunnies - Robin

Paper: Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses, CTMH Olive, Blush

Ink: Copic Markers,

Accessories: Spellbinders Poinsetta dies, Misc. button, SU Moss Green Ribbon, Misc. embroidery thread

Primary Colours - Fabulous Friday Challenge

2010-07-16T10:37:00.000-04:00

Today's Fabulous Friday Challenge over at i {heart} copics is to use the primary colours - Red, Yellow and Blue. This was actually harder than I originally thought that it would be. Once I decided on which July Release from Chicken Girl Stamps I was going to use though, it was much easier. What do you think of Blast Off? For my layout I used Sketch #67 at Digital Tuesday Challenge.

I printed out the sentiment "Hopy your birthday is out of this world." for the inside. Below are the copics that I used on this image.

Okay, now onto business...with the recent release of the Twilight Saga: Eclipse movie, it has come to my attention that some Team Edward girls are contimplating a switch to Team Jacob. At first I wasn't concerned, but when Loopy Lindsey posted about it on her blog I knew I had to take action. Now, don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Taylor Lautner (in fact, I would be happy to be against him if you know what I mean *U*) however, I thought I would share with you a short list that I composed of Pros and Cons of switching to being a Wolf Lover

Pros

that Tattoo is sexy as hell...I'd lick it!
six pack abs, 'nuf said
a nice 108 degrees all year long make him nice to snuggle with on cold winter nights
a man who will “sit” when you tell him to. And “stay” too.
Can offer a human life

Cons

smells like dog - 'cause honestly he aint' no AquaVelva Man!
fur in the bed, 'cause you never know when he's going to phase
kibble breath
no guarantees that he won’t Imprint on someone else and leave you lonely
you’ll live on the La Push Reservation forever
instead of saying I love you, he'll lick your face - yuck!

Okay, so I can't be the only one out there with some thoughts on this subject...I know you Twilight fans are out there....do you have a pro or can for being a Wolf Lover?

Stamps: Chicken Girl Designs Blast Off!

Paper: CTMH Dutch Blue, Holiday Red, Sunkiss Yellow, White
Ink: Copic MarkersAccessories: Misc. Star Punch, Cuttlebug, Embossing Folder

Butterfly Kisses

2010-07-15T14:00:00.021-04:00

Just a quick post today....but I'm happy to say that with tomorrow's Fabulous Friday post I will have posted every day this week! Yay! It feels so good to do what I love every day!

This card uses Sketch #72 over at Card Patterns and though I was initally skeptical it turned out to be a fun and easy card to make. I used up some scraps of my Basic Grey Urban Prairie paper, 'cause I'm determined to make some room for the new papers that will be coming out the CHA 2010 in a few weeks.

So, have you been reading BananaStampers daycamp adventures? If not, pop on over there...her kids are hilarious. Something that seems to come up repeatedly is "wunderwear"...and until she started blogging about their days, I didn't take any notice of the word. At our house we call them "funderoos" because underoos are fun! Are you old enough to remember Underoos? Check out this commercial I found on Youtube.

So, because I was in the mood and I wasn't tired yet, last night I went in search of the various terms for undergarments...I know, I know...but I needed the laugh...so if you're easily offended, look away from the computer screen now.

Briefs, Knickers, Tightie Whities, Drawers, Skivvies, Grape Smugglers,

Undies, Banana Hammock, Panties, Underoos, Wunderwear, Butt Huggers, oh my!

Can you believe that I found an article that says Australian's have 80 words for underwear?

LOL! So, tell me...what do you call them at your house?

Stamps: CTMH Butterfly Wings, Pink Cat Studio Sentiment
Paper: Basic Grey Urban Prairie, CTMH Crystal Blue, Sweetleaf, White
Ink: Versafine Black Onyx, CTMH Crystal Blue

Accessories: Misc White Ribbon, Prima Flower, Nestabilities

It's a Two Card Day!

2010-07-14T22:42:00.000-04:00

Wow! I was on a roll Monday! This first card uses Mojo Monday #147, a super versatile sketch. My Copics are still at BananaStampers and I was surprised that I even remembered how to make a card without colouring an image! LOL!

My second card for today uses Sunday Sketch & Stamp #32 a fun sketch that I turned on it's side. Again, no colouring on this card, just some quick stamping and glue it all together. Whew!

A friend and I went to see Get Him to the Greek last night. There were some super funny parts and some not so funny parts. I have to say though what stands out most for me is Russell Brand...the man is just not my cup of tea...he spends way too much time with his shirt off and it wouldn't normally bother me but he has exceptionally pointy pink nipples...am I allowed to say that in blog land? Don't let your kids read my blog! LOL! It's like when you pass an accident and you really shouldn't look but you can't help yourself...only they're practically looking at me the whole time...screaming at me in fact. Perhaps I'll have to find a movie where he has clothes on to really assess whether I like him or not. Am I the only one who feels this way?

Stamps: Amy R Stamps Thank You Sentiments, CTMH Treasure Life
Paper: Pink Paislee 365 Degrees, CTMH Outdoor Denim, Misc. Pumpkinish colour from LSS

Ink: CTMH Outdoor Denim, Versafine Black Onyx
Accessories: Belladots, Prima Flower, Nestabilities

Life at 4 years old

2010-07-13T08:00:00.008-04:00

Let me introduce you to my four year old. She's super funny, loves to laugh and knows how to execute a joke...most of time. This morning, she hid under her blanket and pretended to be a present...but when my Mom said "what's this on the floor" she giggled and whispered, "it's just me Nana." LOL! I took this photo last week at the daycare...the kid is all about style.

She loves to sing...at the top of her lungs and Impossible is her current favorite...and she's all about being a Rock Star....in the first picture are the hat and sunglasses she picked out on a recent shopping trip with my mother-in-law. The second picture, where she's channeling a little mid-80's rocker style was taken just this morning. I love when she dresses herself! She's a fabulous kid...but don't leave your camera out in the open....unless you want to see life from a 4 year olds point of view. Take a look.

Mr. Piggy...a fine portrait of a pig.

The creepy spider we keep, but no one likes to touch...'cause this baby is huge.

Notice she took some time with this one (note foot in the shot...she sat down). I'll call this one Portrait of a sleeping stuffed dog.

No photo shoot would be complete with out a shot of our very own feet.

And then she got the camera at a friends house and started snapping away. This is the bottom quarter of the big sisters face with Blayde...Rock Stars furry best friend.

It's hard to tell if Teddy is laughing, yawning or panting. Regardless, I would have to contort my body to get a full on shot of this guy, so she was just the right height...and her lighting is good, I only cropped and watermarked the photo...no photo-editing on any of these photos.

So there you have it...if Rock Star turns out to be an award winning photography, you got to see her work first! LOL!

Have a great Tuesday.

Paper Sundaes - Lots of Layers

2010-07-12T10:36:00.000-04:00

This week at Paper Sundaes, the challenge is to use Lots of Layers, and the sponsor is Sugar Nellie. I was able to use this fabulous image that BananaStamper picked up to make a non-traditional holiday card. All the papers were from BananaStampers scrap bin - a very nice place to shop! LOL!

It's hard to see but I used stickles for the snowflakes and on the trim of her coat. The image was quick and easy to colour...and as it turned out, this card was the only crafty thing I made all weekend. I was able to use the Sketch from Sketch Saturday for this card, and although I love the sketch, I think the card should have been bigger...oh well, next time.

Friday night BananaStamper and I managed to get out of the house for a few drinks and some snacks, and when we got back to her place, I just couldn't find my mojo...so I spent the remainder of the evening...all 3 hours...labelling my full collection of copics. Mindless, but work that needed to be done. See, how nice it is to take pictures of my markers now...everyone marker has a label! Woohoo!

Saturday morning, I made this card and then in the afternoon we made a quick trip to Walmart and I took off for a manicure...I feel so good when my nails look nice. I ended the day intending to spend some time on my own with dinner and a movie, but called a friend and was treated to a nice steak dinner and some great conversation. And I laughed...a lot. I need to laugh more. And I need to make more cards, 'cause now I'm a little low in the "Thank You" card department! Yikes!

Oh, and I want you to hop on over to Loopy Lindsay's Crafty Corner to check out this out of this world card that she did....monochromatic is so hard, and she pulled it off with style!

Stamps: Sugar Nellie, CTMH Say It In Style
Paper: Misc. Scraps from BananaStampers scrap bin
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Hole Punch

Fabulous Friday Sketch

2010-07-09T10:15:00.000-04:00

It's Friday! Finally! I have to say this has been the longest week in a long time. But now, the fun begins. The kids will be on the boat with my parents for the weekend, so BananaStamper and I have planned a weekend of crafting fun at her house. I can hardly wait!

Today's challenge over at the i {heart} copics group on PCP is a sketch. I have run very low on my supply of Birthday cards, so I pulled out my 365 Degrees paper and go to work. Of course, once I got my image coloured, I decided to flip the inside of the sketch to fit my image. Hop on over to i {heart} copics to see the sketch and play along with us.

What I had a lot of fun with on this card was making my own flower. I've seen a lot of bloggers doing it lately, and I'm fairly happy with the results.

Stamps: Pink Cat Studio Ladybug Holding Balloons, StampingBella Sentiment
Paper: 365 Degrees

Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black ink

Accessories: Nestabilities, White Ribbon, Misc. Button

White Plus One

2010-07-07T14:51:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog is to make a card using White Plus One (just white and one other colour)...so much harder than you think. I cheated a little bit and coloured my Corner Rose from Fred She Said in a pale pink (R00 and R01 for copic users).

Fred She Said is a great digital stamp company, with some fun stuff...and I love the pre-coloured images. How easy would it be to make a whole bunch of cards with pre-coloured images!?!

Anyway, things have been rough around here. I know that there is something to learn from every experience that we have...that there is something that we can look back and say "when this happened, i learned that..." I know that I have learned a whole lot in the past two weeks. Right now, I am sad and angry and happy and feeling guilty all at the same time. I feel like I'm on a roller coaster most days, and if you knew me in real life you'd know just how much I dislike those darned things. One thing I know for sure that I have gained in the past two weeks is a new friend...one I hope to know for a long time.

Stamps: Fred She Said Corner Rose, Amy R Stamps Spring Sentiment
Paper: CTMH White, Sweet Leaf

Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Black Ink
Accessories: Cuttlebug, Swiss Dots Folder, Kaisercraft Pearls

SpiderMouse!

2010-07-05T10:36:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone, I hope you had a great long weekend...it was stinkin' hot here, which was just perfect! This weeks challenge over at i {heart} copics PCP group is Red, White and Blue. Since I'm not stateside, and I celebrated Canada Day before the challenge was issued, I decided to make this fun birtdhay card for my little one's friend.

The image is from Whiff of Joy and is a digital image I got free from their blog months ago...this is the first time that he's been inked up. He was super easy to colour and the card came together fairly quickly...I can see making a few of these for my stash.

Stamps: Whiff of Joy Henry as Spiderman, StampingBella Sentiment
Paper: Red, White, Blue
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Swiss Dots Cuttlebug Folder (it's hard to see the dots in this photo...it's on the red), Stickles to make his white eyes sparkle

Paper Sundaes Birthday Challenge

2010-06-27T08:00:00.001-04:00

Hello! This week's challenge over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog is Birthday Cards and our sponsor is Stamp & Create. You have all week to enter, so get creating...this is an easy one!

I used this week's Sweet Stop Sketch 62 for my card, and pulled out some Bo Bunny Shabby Princess papers that I've had forever. I decided to go old school on the image and used my copics like I would regular markers...no shading on this image...I like it. And, I got so involved in making my card, that I finished the inside too!

Yesterday was the first official day of Summer Vacation for our kids and they had a blast. They spent the day playing with kids in the neighborhood and hubby helped a neighbor with fixing his deck. Hubby laughed for the first time in a long time...it's almost like I have my hubby back. :)Supposed to rain all day today so I'll be doing some housework and hopefully spending a little time in my craft room.

Oh yeah, and have you heard...3 SLEEPS UNTIL I SEE ECLIPSE!

Stamps: Stamp & Create, StampingBella Sentiments
Paper: Bo Bunny Shabby Princess, CTMH Sunkiss Yellow, White
Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Black
Accessories: Misc. Buttons, Prima Flower

2 Challenges in 1...almost.

2010-06-24T11:30:00.000-04:00

Just when you think things are going to even out...all hell breaks loose! LOL! Oh, the things I could say about what is happening at our house! Not only are we dealing with medical issues, but the kids are finishing up school and my parents have moved into the basement. All of this has actually been a blessing. My parents are around to keep the kids company and occupied when I cannot. This has helped tremendously. Now that I have started to organize life a little, and we're getting used to lots of doctors appointments and question/answer sessions, I have had to accept that lots of things in our life are going to change. One of these is the way I create. Currently, my scrap room is in the basement, away from the rest of the house. However, I can't seem to get myself down there these days. So, on the weekend, I brought all my Copics upstairs and lo and behold an image got coloured.

There is still time to enter the i {heart} copics fabulous friday challenge, which is to make a card based on this image.

So, the image that I coloured was based on this inspiration. This is the first time that I've inked up this Magnolia image...I got her at the beginning of May.

And, I chose this image, because this week's challenge over at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog is "Pretty as a Princess" which means to make a Girly Card...and if I had found the time this would have been so girly...and still will be just at a later date! LOL! There is still time to enter the Paper Sundaes challenge this week, and I just read that we are looking for Guest Designers, so head on over there for all the details!

Of course, I couldn't leave without ap picture of the copics that I used. The unmarked one is R00

Stamps: Princess Tilda
Paper: Neenah 110lb
Copics: See picture
Accessories: Diamond Stickles

Mono-tone card

2010-06-10T13:17:00.000-04:00

This is a card I made a few week's back for the i {heart} copics challenge...to use all markers from one of the Copic Colour Groups. I used all Y colours and am super happy with this card. There is a sketch in here somewhere too, but it's been too long and I didn't write it down.

The image is Lily of the Valley and is actually a Christmas Angel, but it works so perfectly.

The kids are going to be out with some friends on Saturday and I can't wait to have a few hours in the house with nothing but my crafting supplies, a big bowl of M&M's and some Pepsi. It is amazing to me how much I crave creating when I'm doing it on a regular basis. Somehow, I don't have the same cravings for laundry when it's gone too long between loads...go figure! LOL!

i {heart} copics - Fabulous Friday June 4th

2010-06-08T12:23:00.001-04:00

I'm sooooo behind on my posting...but I'm getting back on track this week. I explain why below.

Today's card is for the i {heart} copics PCP group Fabulous Friday Challenge - Make a Father's Day card! The only requirement is that you use Copic Markers somewhere on your card. I had a lot of fun with this card. I chose a Riley the Moose image and used a CTMH sentiment. All other supplies are from http://www.iheartpapers.com/ Have you shopped there before? You should, Kate is super quick with shipping and she has a great selection of just about everything a papercrafter could want!

The fun papers are from the Pink Paislee 365 degrees collecton...some great bold prints perfect for buy cards! The sketch is from The Sweet Stop 58 and I have to tell you, they have some of the best sketches going!

I was super psyched to find that my Kioshi Buttons matched this paper perfectly, so I popped them on there too! And, below are the Copic markers that I used on this card.

'k...here is why I have not been posting lately. On May 20th we found out that my husband has a brain tumor. He turned 37 last Friday. We're sad. Because information is so readily available on the internet, and for the most part it isn't positive information, I had to cut the internet at home a few days after we found out so that he would stop reading the horror stories. Of course, I have been emotionally and metally drained each day, so making cards is difficult, and knowing that I have to reattach the internet each time (I'm the techie at our house) is just too daunting a task. However, we finally have a plan of attack and so things should settle a little bit. And, I am hoping to be able to hook up the internet again, which will help.

I didn't want to post about the tumor on my blog until we knew something and now we know. At this point we are going to watch the tumor to see how quickly it is growing and watch for any changes in behaviour/motor ability/mental status. The kind of tumor that he has is operable, but because it grows into the brain (and already has) it is impossible to remove it all, and it will grow back after surgery. Surgery will not slow the growth or improve his prognosis. Because we think he has been having seizures, his drivers licence has been suspended and he is not working. The days are long and the nights are longer.

However, I am a survivor...I will be made stronger by this journey. Everything happens for a reason. And, I stand by my favorite saying: "Everything will okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end."

Stamps: Riley, CTMH
Paper: Pink Paislee 365 Degrees, CTMH Outdoor Denim, Crystal Blue, Olive
Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Outdoor Denim, Memento Black
Accessories: Kioshi Buttons, CTMH brads

Paper Sundaes - Colour Challenge

2010-05-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's Paper Sundaes Challenge time again, and this week it's colour challenge - Kraft and Blue. I used this combo to make a Father's Day card. The blue that I used is CTMH's Twilight and the stamp set is also CTMH Beautiful Things.

I hope that you enjoy my card today...don't forget to hop on over to Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog and participate in the fun!

Stamps: CTMH Beautiful Things, Say It In Style
Paper: Misc. Patterned Scrap, CTMH Twilight, Olive Green, Kraft
Ink: CTMH Chocolate
Accessories: CTMH Twilight Brads, Misc. Ribbon.

Fabulous Friday at i {heart} copics

2010-05-28T10:45:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge on the i {heart} copics group over at PCP is to make a shaped card. I made my card a little smaller and plan to use it as a gift tag/card for a present we are giving this weekend. I started with my Basic Grey Kioshi Paper pad and then co-ordinated my Tilda's dress to match. I added some White Glimmer Ribbon for her to sit on and a flower to match the one in her hair. I finished off my flower with a Basic Grey Button to match my Kioshi Papers.

All in all, I am super pleased...until I went to take my picture and I realized that my card didn't sit straight! Argh! So, it looks like my card was sitting on an incline when I took the picture...thank goodness for Photoshop! LOL!

And, here are the Copic Markers that I used on my image...gotta love how those

V's blend together so nicely!

Stamps: Amy R Beach Sentiments, Berry Tilda

Paper: Basic Grey Kioshi,

Ink: Copic Markers, Memento Black

Accessories: Prima Flower, Basic Grey Kioshi Button, White Glimmer Ribbon

Paper Sundaes Written Inspiration

2010-05-24T11:25:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge at Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog is written inspiration. I know that my DT were all surprised that I didn't do a Twilight theme'd card, given my penchant for quoting Eclipse and comparing almost every situation to something in the books.

However, a few months back, the kids and I were at the movies and we saw a Trailer for Beezus and Ramona...does anybody remember these books? They were by Beverly Cleary and I told my 7 year old that we couldnt' watch the movie until we had read the book. So, when I was asked to pick an image to use for this challenge from our sponsor Spesch Designs, I saw this little girl with balloons and immediately thought of Ramona.

The funny thing about books is that you can read them over and over and find so many different things in them. When I was a kid (and I'm the youngest of 2) I always sympathized and related to Ramona. Now that I'm reading the books with my eldest daughter, I can totally relate to Beezus, as I know that is how my daugheter is feeling. So amazing to me that she would love books that I read as a kid...it is true that reading the is one of the things in life that never goes out of style. The sketch is from Sketch Girl #18 a fabulous sketch site I found.

Oh, and have you checked out Spesch Designs yet? You really should!

Stamp: Stampingbella sentiment
Paper: My Mind's Eye Hippity Hoppity, Yellow Bazzil
Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Misc. Buttons

Gator Greetings

2010-05-19T20:44:00.000-04:00

Have you seen the new digital images from Chicken Girl Designs? They are so super cute, my favorite release yet. I decided to make a "male" card with this gator image. The layout is courtesy of Card Patterns #63. Paper is all CTMH and of course, I used my copics to colour him.

There are a few challenges that this card qualifies for today including:

KL Stampin & Scrappin - Animal Appreciation

Allsorts Challenge Blog - Birthdays!

Dare You to Digi Stamp - Anything Goes (gotta love these ones!)

Stamp: Chicken Girl Designs Gator Greetings

Paper: CTMH Heavenly Blue, Sweet Leaf, Cocoa, Goodtimes DP

Ink: Copic Markers
Accessories: Prima Flowers, CTMH Bigger Brad, fun SU Punch whose name escapes me but it makes the paper look like I tore it out of a coil book!

My Baby's Growing Up!

2010-05-18T13:03:00.000-04:00

Oh my...my baby is growing up. I remember my Mom saying this when I was a kid and rolling my eyes. Now, it's my turn I guess. The little one has wanted to cut her hair short since before Christmas. I didn't have a problem with the big kid asked at 4 years old...in fact, I helped her convince Daddy that it was just hair and off to the salon we went. I remember gushing about how fabulous she looked and how happy I was that we cut it for her.

Second time around, I was not so easily convinced. Perhaps it is because we had a bad hair experience with her first cut (she came out looking like a boy!). Regardless, I loved her flowing, wavy blond hair...she looked so darned cute and I could put it in pig tails and braid them and it was just fabulous.

Yesterday, I just couldn't take it anymore and made an appointment with a hair salon and this is the result.

Remember, the hairdresser has to do all kinds of things to it that I won't...things involving hairblowers and straightening irons...so who knows what it's going to look like after we wash it! My Mom asked how it looks and I said "different"...really, it just looks so different to me, I don't think it has set in. So scary to let them have some independence at 4 years old...next thing she'll be wanting coloured streaks! That's where I draw the line! LOL!

Sit Back & Relax

2010-05-18T11:13:00.001-04:00

Oh, this was a fun card to make. This week's Mojo Monday Sketch #139 was my inspiration. The recipient loves yellow, and with the weather finally getting nice I was ready to use some bright colours on my cards and these We R Memory Keepers Hippity Hoppity papers fit perfectly. This card was a "made to order" card for my friend Anne. She has a coworker who is retiring and the girls are getting together for a farewell dinner.

It was so much fun, I finally used my new Spellbinders Fancy Tags die that I got at i {heart} papers. And, since the front of the card had so much going on, I moved the sentiment to the inside and added a yellow flower to finish it off. And, it wasn't until I was finsihed that I realized I did the most crazy thing...I stamped my image in CTMH Black in, forgetting that I was colouring it, and then I coloured with copics...I can't believe that the ink didn't bleed more. I am reasonbly impressed that CTMH paper worked so well.

Things have been extremely stressful here this past few days, and when I can I'll tell you all about it. That being said, I felt so good making a card that is so bright and cheery...takes my mind away from things.

My card also qualifies for the following challenges:

Crafy Cardmakers Inside Out

Ooh-La-La Bright and Cheerful

Stamps: StampingBella
Paper: We R Memory Keepers Hippity Hoppity, CTMH Citrus Leaf, Hollyhock, Misc Yellow Bazzill

Ink: Copic Markers, CTMH Black
Accessories: Spellbinders Fancy Tags, Prima Flower, CTMH Bigger Brad, Misc. Yellow Ribbon, Misc. Button, Dollarstore Jewels, CTMH Twine.

Magnolia at Paper Sundaes

2010-05-16T13:14:00.000-04:00

Head on over to Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog today for a Magnolia-icious Challenge - EASEL CARDS.

Fabulous Friday

2010-05-14T20:00:00.000-04:00

This week over on i {heart} copics group on PCP we're having a sketch challenge...and there are new Chicken Girl Designs Stamps in the i {heart} papers store!

For my card, I pulled out My Mind's Eye papers Ooh La La For Her and some 110lb Neenah Cardstock. I turned the sketch on its side and cut my card front in half.

Now, I have to be honest...I would have a hard time giving this card to anyone other than a girlfriend....every time I read the sentiment I think of "Monkeyin' Around" *wink* *wink* LOL! Of course, it works perfect for a kids card because kid's shouldn't know about that sort of thing!

Stamps: Chicken Girl Designs Monkey Around

Paper: My Mind's Eye Ooh La La "For Her", CTMH Sweet Leaf, Neenah 110 lb cardstock

Ink: Copic Markers...oh, I forgot the picture of the markers, I"ll upload that tonight

Accessories: Misc. Dollar store jewels, corner punch for making the scallop, Nestabilities, Cuttlebug

Thinking Summer

2010-05-14T13:58:00.000-04:00

Hey! Since I've been having trouble colouring lately due to neck pain, I played with a card that required very little stamping. The papers are from the Imaginisce Splash Dance line...and let me tell you these are some fun papers!

Argh! And I totally used a sketch for this one, but do you think I can remember what it was? Oh well, it will come to me eventually. Hopefully I'll get some colouring done tonight. I'll be spending part of my weekend finishing up the "scrapbook for hire" that I'm doing and then maybe a card or two. And, now that I've got my new work computer set up, I'll be able to blog-surf during lunch and leave comment...with no computer crashing! LOL!

And, for my Twilight fans...did you see the new Eclipse trailer? Check it out here.

Have a great weekend!

With Sympathy

2010-05-10T10:11:00.004-04:00

Sympathy cards are the hardest for me, I really should make a few to have on hand. For this one, it was for a friend who lost her father-in-law unexpectedly. I despise sympathy cards that are too dark and dreary, so I went with my Basic Grey Makkarech papers, which are not too bright, but not too cheery.

I kept the front simple, and stamped my message on the inside...excuse the fuzzy parts, I wrote the message in before I took my pictures and I tried using Adobe to erase my message.

I used the Sketch over on the OCC Sketch Challenge Blog. It worked perfectly I think.

Stamps: Verve Forever in Our Hearts
Paper: Basic Grey Makkarech, CTMH Outdoor Denim
Ink: CTMH Black
Accessories: Prima Flowers, CTMH Bigger Brad in Denim

Paper Sundaes Challenge - A Sketch!

2010-05-09T08:00:00.003-04:00

Oh, I just love me a good sketch...and this week Paper Sundaes has a great one! Our sponsor this week is Kraftin' Kimmie's Stamps, so head on over to the Paper Sundaes Challenge Blog to check out the sketch and the prize.

I used my Basic Grey Marrakech papers for this week's card. I just wasn't in the mood to colour **gasp!** I know, I know...anyway, I decided to paper piece Lilith's dress, and it turned out very nice.

The inside will probably have a birthday greeting, something along the lines of "now you're older" or whatever....I'll probably print it up on the computer when I go to give the card away.

It is Mother's Day here, and so that means I get breakfast and the kids told me to "sleep in as late as you can"...so hopefully I'm still sleeping when this posts....but more likely I've already had my bacon and pancakes and have ooh'd and aah'd over the cards the kids made me. Our plans for today include cooking a big turkey dinner and having my parents and brother over....and relaxing.

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Lilith

Paper: Basic Grey Makkarech, CTMH Outdoor Denim, Heavenly Blue

Inks: Copic Markers

Accessories: White Bella Dots, Nestabilities