Paper, Ink and BLING!

Raspberry Suite Color Challenge #20

2009-12-09T19:16:00.000-08:00

Hey ladies how are you?

Been a long time! And it is going to be awhile longer before I will have time to sit down and produce every day. Right now i am knee deep in Christmas prep. I have finished shopping, and the wrapping Marathon is about to start.

Once all is wrapped I will start baking. I don't know about you but, I have an order I like to do things. That way if I don't get everything done I have the most important things done!

As for the card, it is one that I love and have to reproduce!

Raspberry Suite Color Challenge #19

2009-11-20T18:04:00.000-08:00

Hi my friends!

It has been a very long week here. It has been dark and raining so hard you would think that we be flooding every where. Thankfully, flooding is limited to very low lying areas.

I am just listening to the thunder and thinking perhaps I should get off the computer! LOL

Dawns Color Challenge #18

2009-10-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

How are we doing tonight?

I was so EXCITED when I saw this challenge tonight! I just love Dawns colour sense. She has an incredible eye for colour.

This picture is so lush and wonderful. I really started out trying to do another card; but I gave up! LOL

I will go back to it later.

This card was a simple one. I just eyed a mitten out of felt as I cut it. I added my most darling treasure, pop-pom wire. (thanks Karin!)
Do you not love the warm cozy feeling of this card?

Can you just not wait until that first snow? I love the thought of snow. Unfortunately, far too often we only get a couple days a year. This year I am hoping for a little more, then usual!

This card came together pretty quick and easy once I had the focal image. That my friend is a good thing, as I am watching 5 kids just now!

Have a great night!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI Kraft, Vintage Cream

Stamps- PTI Signature Christmas, Labels, Pink Cat- Snowflakes

Ink- PTI Dark Chocolate, Vintage Cream, Raspberry Fizz

Embellishments- Berwick pom-pom, Offray green satin ribbon, pink & brown felt, button, cream hemp twine

Reindeer Kisses!

2009-10-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

I am trying to get a few things in my house organized. I can not work when things are not clean and organized. Funny, really because when I am working I make a HUGE mess! So I am constantly cleaning!

Wish I could put things back as I use them. It would make things simpler.

I was playing today with some cellophane glitter I bought at Michael's last Christmas. The verdict is, must use MODGE podge glue. Very hard to get those bits to stick to paper, and boy let me tell you this stuff is real messy.

On the up side, the stuff sure if sparkly and pretty!

Check out the cute Reindeer by Elzybells! Don't you just love them? They remind me of my trips Europe where deer over take the public parks. And Yes I am a naughty tourist and take photos of them real close up!

(Hampton Court- London, UK -June 2009)

I have noticed a trend of using coloured images on craft paper. I thought I would try my hand at it. I am pleased with how it adds a little something special to my fave type of card stock.

Have you given it a try?

What is your fave colouring medium?

I love COPICS! However, with Kraft I think I am liking my chalks better.

Happy Colouring!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Stamps- Elzybells

Ink- Memento Tux Black, PTI Fresh Snow

Paper- PTI Kraft

Embellishments- COPICS, stickles red, white gel pen, SU! red chalk, cellophane glitter

Christmas is coming!

2009-10-20T19:09:00.000-07:00

I am getting really excited about Christmas! I love making cards and wrapping gifts. I have started to make cards, and gift packaging and even started on some gifts! ~hee hee~

One of my all time favorite stamp sets is Cold Nose Warm Heart by Elzybells. It has wonderful images and sentiments.

This card is so warm and cozy; yet still bright and cheery! I love this colour combination, it makes me think of CANDIES! LOL

Under the image I used a layer of Kelly Green felt, I thought it would add some warmth and depth to the card. Don't you just love adding touches of felt to your Christmas cards? Felt makes cards tactile and cozy.

Now how about those little pop-poms? ADORABLE, right?

My friends Karin got them at Micheal's in a discount bin, we got them for $.48! Haa! I challenge you to find such a great embellishment at that price, and the best part is there is 3 yards in the pack! And, my friends, if you do find a deal that SWEET you better be letting me in on the SECRET too!

TTFN!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Stamps-Elzybells sentiment and image, Cold noses warm heart

Paper- Brazil Kelly Green, WW pale blue, PTI stampers select white, DP mittens(old scrap sorry)

Ink- PTI Fresh Snow, Memento Tux Black

Embellishments- Spellbinders small circles, Cuttlebug Snowflake folder,pom-pom wire, pop dots,Felt Kelly Green, pink button, white hemp twine, Copics

Back at it!

2009-10-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

It is hard to get back to normal after a death in your family. The truth is nothing will be the same, everything has changed. However, you must move forward; and embrace life.

With this said, I have got back to the stamps! ~Hooray!~

The first thing I want to show you is a candle. It is a Christmas candle I made this weekend. I have made candles with stamps in the past, however I had never coloured in an image. And to say I am pleased with the results is an understatement!

There are now endless possibilities whirling around in my head!

I hate when that happens because usually it is followed by a couple of sleepless nights!LOL

Yes, I lose sleep over papercraft excitement! Don't you? Or am I alone?

The image is Cold Nose Warm Heart, by Elzybells. This little set is so much fun to colour and play with.

Stamp Something!

PS If enough of you want a tutorial on the candle stamping I will whip that up later in the week!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Stamps: Image-Elzybells,Cold Nose Warm Heart

Sentiment-SU!

Ink: Memento Brown

Paper: Dollar store Tissue

Embellishments: Red Glitter Embossing powder, COPICS

Gone but not Forgotten...

2009-10-11T20:25:00.000-07:00

My Grandfather passed away this week. He is gone to a better place, where he will live on forever, free of pain and sorrow.

I was blessed to have been with him at his side hours before he died. He smiled and said hi to me; I smiled back and said hello. It was all I could do to hold back the tears; knowing it would be our last hello.

Thankfully, I have many fond memories of him, that I will carry in my heart forever. My children were also lucky enough to know him too. These days not many children get to know Great Grandparents. They called him Papa Ernie, and will miss him dearly.

I miss you, Grandpa!
Love
Rieca

WCMD part 3!

2009-10-03T12:01:00.001-07:00

A little Merry and BRIGHT 4 ya!

I have had this Christmas Glitter stck by DCWV for a year and I decided it was time to break it out and use it.

Do you have last year SALE goodies that you need to break into also? Get them out and remember the glory of finding them on sale! Enjoy them all over again, and start using up your oldies but goodies!

WCMD 2nd post!

2009-10-03T11:43:00.000-07:00

Happy World Card Making Day!

How have you been spending your day?

Are you quilty of hopping and not making cards?

Have you been shopping? There are so great sales out there today! Elzybells has FREE shipping world wide!

How cute are these yummy MME papers? I love the little snowmen, and the Charlie brown style Christmas trees, and the colours so fresh and fun!

I was so inspired by these papers I quickly whipped out a dozen cards, I made 3 of each of these designs.

I gotta get back to stamp'n!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI, Brazill, and MME DP

Embellishments- Ribbon scraps, MS snowflake punch, EK Success snowflake border punch, Fiskars Effervescent border punch, Marvey scallop square punch, SU! round circle punch, SU! corner rounder punch, Kaiser blings

WCMD!!!

2009-10-03T09:35:00.000-07:00

Let's start off SIMPLE!
What could be easier, then making cards from scraps? No stamping, just cutting, punching and mounting! Easy Peasie! This is for all you beginners, and all of you card makers who need to simplify!
Admittedly with the vast quantities of cards I produce each Christmas, I need to spend more time making simple cards, so that I can enjoy more time with my kids! It is like anything else in life EVERYTHING has a priority!

Now these next cards is what I would say is stamp simple! Not a stamped image in sight! Only sentiments and punches!

I have more postings coming today, so check back later!

Have a great WCMD!

OH Happy DAY!

2009-09-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

I have been having one of those days. Not the kind where my kids are driving me crazy; but the kind where I am LAZY! I blame the weather; as we are having our first cool days, and it feels like a snug on down kind of day.

I felt like my MOJO had got up and gone. And then...

I came across Dawn's Color challenge! Oh BLISS!

Not only did I find my MOJO, but I managed to make in my mind a wonderfully balanced card. It has glitz, it has soft ruffles, clean lines& modern pattern. The very best thing about this card; I broke into my new embeli's from MM! I have been dying for an excuse to crack them open!

Don't you just love the happy little cardinal? ~smiles~

I hope to see your creations with this color challenge too!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper: Brazill kisses, PTI cream, kraft, American craft DP

Stamps: PTI Vintage labels, Signature Christmas

Ink:PTI Dark Chocolate, Vintage cream

Embellishments: MM Mistletoe glitter chip board, Offray sheer ribbon, Kaiser bling, Fiskars effervescent border punch

A bit of this and that...

2009-09-22T17:25:00.000-07:00

First off lets just say it was Happy Mail day! I got my Tax refund, and more important my new PTI order!

I have seen some super cute new stamps that I covet by Denami, but I have not narrowed down my choices yet! If you want a chance to win yourself some yuppy stamps hop on over to the Denami Blog, they have a chance to win $50, now that gets you quite a few of their lovelies!

Now can I complain?

MY TWINS!!!

UGH, admittedly trying to stamp with twins is near impossible; but today they have been their absolute worst!

They have dumped a bottle of shampoo into the toilet, and then used the toilet brush to clean the toilet(unfortunately the base too!)

Then they broke a pkg of rice noodles open, all over the house, too big to vaccum, and near impossible to find in shag carpet.

I know what your thinking.. watch them and none of this will happen.

Well, while I was sitting with them watching a video... they managed to open very quietly, my daughters back pack, get out her markers, and colour the couch! Yes I was sitting on the couch! That is how fast they are!

So I have spent the last hour scrubbing the couch clean and wishing for a new life.

When I looked up to see, Leila had pulled her nappie off and rolled poo balls in my carpet. All of this while I am in the room! Can you imagine what they would do if I left the room?

Better Days!

World Card Making Day

2009-09-15T20:34:00.001-07:00

Hi Ya!
How is everyone doing?

I am so excited to share with you world card day plans! I am going to spend the morning with my children; and then I am going to get busy! I have all sorts of wonderful new purchases just waiting to be used.

As part of my celebration of World Card making Day, I am going to commit to not purchasing more then $30 each month; until New Years.

I know some of you will be thinking that is a lot of money, others will be like me thinking it is impossible! I am limiting myself; for 2 reasons. The first being obviously currently not having a job, my budget is limited. But the more important reason is that I have so so so many wonderful goodies that have yet to be used. By not buying anything, i hope to spend more time utilizing my goodies already in my arsenal!

Do you too have this problem?

How do you plan to resolve it?

Let's go play with our paper ladies!

R

Moxie Fab- Household Item Challenge

2009-09-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

Hey all! Another Moxie Fab challenge!

Today I was needing a baby card so while this card is simple it took me a long time to come up with the idea.

I took an old baby spoon and used double sided tape and it stayed, amazing. It looks real cute, and the best part is now I know exactly what to get for the shower gift! Thanks for the inspiration Cath, you made my gift simple!

I hope you have a wonderful day!

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI white, WW teal blue
Embellishments: MS loops corner and border punch, teal ribbon, AC foam letters

Laurel's Place: Some blog candy

2009-09-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Laurel's Place: Some blog candy

Wow look at all of the wonderful goodies Laurel has up for grabs!
POP on by for your chance to win some YUMMIES!
R

MOxie FAB- Something stamped

2009-09-07T21:36:00.001-07:00

This first photo gives you an idea of what the card looks like up close! Unfortunately my camera is acting up and you can not get a true idea of the stamping done.

This next photo is a better idea of the stamping done. First I stamped with my SU! flourish, with Versa Mark on PTI Rasperry Fizz. Then I used 2 darling Pink Cat snowflakes one in Fresh Snow and the other in Red. I added a bit of bling to the centers, stickles and Kaiser red bling.

The center snowflake is a tripple layer, bottom Marvey blue snowflake punch, middle Marvey Pink snowflake punch, and top layer is MS snowflake punch. I also treated these with stickles and MME bling.

The edge punch is my newest treasure, it is EK success Snawflake.

Have a Fab Day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper: PTI raspberry fizz, sweet blush, pure poppy

Stamps: Pink Cat- snowflakes and sentiment, SU! baroque motif

Ink- PTI pure poppy, rasperry fizz, fresh snow, Versamark

Embellishments: MS snowflake punch, SU! circle punch, EK success snowflake border punch, Marvey mega and large snowflake punches, Kaiser red bling, Stickles Icicle, Star Dust, white gel pen

Moxie FAB

2009-09-07T21:26:00.001-07:00

Don't you just hate computer and camera problems? They always happen for me at the worst time!

Any how i made this card first by stamping Dawn McVey's Damask design, on Sweet Blush in Raspberry fizz. Then I added double sided tape on top in a plaid pattern. And then I added glitter to the tape to make a sheer plaid.

The circle is Raspberry Fizz paper, and I stamped a portion of one of PTI's large Damask images with Fresh Snow. I then stamped the sentiment in PTI's Enchanted Evening. I just love that name don't you? LOL

I will try to load a better photo tomorrow, after I borrow a friends camera, mine is FINISHED! LOL
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper: PTI sweet blush, raspberry fizz, enchanted evening

Stamps:PTI Damask

Ink: PTI Raspberry Fizz, Fresh Snow, Enchanted Evening

Embellishments: SU! 1 3/8 cirlce punch, PTI satin ribbon Enchanted Evening, foam tape, double sided stick tape, warm highlights glitter

a 365 blitz...

2009-08-20T18:09:00.001-07:00

Pam has done it again! Today at the 365 she challenged us to use letters out of 3 different mediums. I really had to think about this one. I like the "U" made out of the buttons, I think it turned out much better then I expected. Now onto my catch up cards...

Day #172 ABC's & 123's

Day #171 Tuesdays Trio (button, triangle, and a sticker)

I have a tutorial for you on this one. It is simple and fun to create images with scraps. First I cut a triangle. Can't get easier now can it?

Then I crumpled it in a ball... seriously all of you can do that now can't you?

Then I cut a small oval, and again crumpled it. Here is what the pair look like opened up. Can you guess what I made with my triangle?

I know know surprise here! I love the dimension and the texture this hat has. Honestly it looks aged, weathered, and like a real honest to goodness witch hat!

I love the stickers, little dots, they look like witches brew bubbling out of a cauldron... ok maybe it is just me who thinks that.

For those of you interested in the broom. Equally simple... twig, raffia folded up into a small bundle, and tied to the end with hemp twine. Seriously ladies, something like this would sell at the LSS as a sticker set for $6. And it cost me nothing! Love that!

What have you done with your scraps lately?

Double Duty #170

2009-08-17T00:55:00.000-07:00

Do you or your children have unique names? All of my children, my husband and myself have unique names. Did you always want pencils with your name on it as a child? Or the coveted licence plate for your bike? I DID! I desperately wanted to have something with my name on it. And well to this day I never have had anything with my name on it!

My daughter is just the same as me in that way. For example today when we went to the store she was desperately searching for water bottles with her name on. To make her feel better when she was not successful in her search; I told her that I would make her something with her name on it.

I had not planned on doing it tonight! But when I came across todays challenge double duty I knew it was my chance. I took it and ran with it, and she is going to be so excited in the morning!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper: PTI white, DP's DCWV
Stamps: Pink Cat

Ink: Memento Tux black

Embellishments: AC foam thickers, stickles, pop dots, COPICS, SU! circle punch, SU! label die

CPS #129

2009-08-16T23:42:00.000-07:00

I am terrible at using paper that is either too cute to cut or to expensive to buy again. I keep it for years before I decide to break it out and snip it up. I love these coordinating papers, and I have kept them in my stash much too long. They have flocking details, which unfortunately you can not tell in my photo, however in real life they are lovely and velvety, wonderful texture. Today was the day they met my scissors and paper cutter.

I really liked the distressing on the center stripe, but not as pleased with my edges. My ink was very wet, as it was new, and well it got a bit messy. But they say there is no mistakes in card making.

Have a great Monday!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper: PTI kraft, DP's Imaginisce

Ink: Color Box chalks

Catch up day...

2009-08-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

I don't if you are like me...
BUT ...
If you are you wake up Sunday morning to last nights dishes. I hate it! I make dinner late on Saturdays as we are busy, as most people are. Inevitably what happens is we play outside after dinner with the kids to run some steam off, and then start bed time routine. I always fall asleep putting the twins down.
And then, I end up with dishes Sunday morning! So I caught all my dishes, laundry and cleaning up. Then I decided to start catching up at 365!

So here are the fruits of my labour!

R
Card #164 Color Scheme

Card #165 Shape Up!

Close up of day #166 Recipe card

Full view of Day #166 Recipe card

Day #168 Touch of Toile
Day #169 Super Sketchy Sunday

With that all done; now I just need to catch up on 2 more cards this week... here's hoping I get to it!

Off to do yard work!

Glitter everywhere!

2009-08-14T15:17:00.000-07:00

Hi ya!
Did you miss me? Well I missed you all! I can hardly wait for the chat tonight at PTI. Have you seen all the yummy peeks this week? OMG, my Visa and I are ready!

Today there is a whole bunch of fun over at the 365 card challenge. Make a card that looks like a gift all wrapped up. How fun is that?
At first I was thinking floral picks and adding it to my card, but then I realized, that was no longer a card, honestly if it doesn't fit in an envelope is it still a card?

So instead I decided to play with glitter. Always fun, I know you agree! LOL

I was playing with my MS glitter when suddenly I had an idea to make plaid with it. It was lots of fun, and I love how it turned out. I took quite a few photos so I can give you an idea of what I did so you can try it too. Get ready ladies...

First, get out a piece of paper.
Then apply double sided tape in put strips of it across evenly both horizontally and vertically. The next step is to peel off the backing if you use roll tape. Once all the backings are off pick your glitter you want to work with and pour a little onto your paper. Remember a little goes a long way with glitter. Then I swish my paper gently back and forth to get an even spread of glitter. Tap the excess off and you should end up with an image like this one.

Next if you are brave repeat the first step, by adding another colour. In this case I added green horizontally.
I know what you are thinking, this is surely going to make a mess! But that is not the case, I just tap the excess off onto my brown paper bag below fold it in half and pour all the excess right back in the bottle, easy peasy! And not too messy at all.
In this next image I wanted to show you what it looks like before I removed the tape backings.

Again once you peel off those backings(if you use that type of tape), then you are good to go and add another colour. Here as you can see I added a rich brown colour.

Voila!
The final card! I hope you enjoy the tutorial, challenge and final product.
I hope you find a little glitter in your day too! ~wink~

R

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper: SU! choc chip, PTI white, raspberry fizz ,Scrap of green dotted paper

Stamps: Pink Cat - sentiment

Ink- PTI dark choco

Embellishments: MS glitter, Marvey scalloped square punch, SU! circle punch, MS snowflake punch, hole punch, scrap of gold braid, PTI dark choco gross grain, Kaiser flower gem, MS pearl, double sided tape, pop dots

Raspberry Suite Color Challenge #14

2009-08-09T17:24:00.001-07:00

Hi my friends long time no stamp! I was so pleased to see that Dawn posted a new challenge today. I needed a good excuse to get me back into the ink! LOL

I'll be back with the details in a minute twins just woke up from their nap!

OK, so I am back. And first I need to say I miss stamping so much! I have been very busy with our gorgeous summer and have not made time to stamp. I know it sounds like a sin! But honestly some times you need to just admit we are not all MS and we can't do it all without an army of employees!

I have been enjoying visits to my dads cabin, it is a wonderful piece of paradise, that I am lucky enough to be able to use frequently. We have taken the kids to the beach, lakes, waterslides and to the water parks. Ah, summer can't you just wait for kids back at school and lazy fall days?

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper: PTI Vintage cream, Plum Pudding

Ink: SU! Pomegranate, Versamark

Stamps: SU!

Embellishments: MS glitter, MS pearls, crimson velvet ric rac, double sided tape, AC thickers

Raspberry Color #12

2009-07-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

How is this for rich, vibrant, natural and inspiring? My goodness this gets my MOJO going.

Before I get talking about my card; I want to fill you in on what I have been up to. I have been getting a lot of e-mails asking if I am OK. The answer is YES, we are all fine. And you are so kind to ask. I have taken a break from blogging because all 3 of my children had their birthdays this week.

Pateley turned 7, and we went to the beach and had a great time. The twins turned 2, and we had a BBQ, and ice cream.

So I am back ladies!

Yes, you can look forward to hearing about all the crazy things my kids get up to. And more importantly you will be seeing more cards, hopefully I will get back to daily posts. Hard to make the time with all that is going on in the summer; but for you wonderful supportive ladies I am going to make the effort.

Now for the card Details. I was inspired by the natural beauty of this photo. So I went to my stamps and picked Strawberries. They are so sweet and wonderful right now, the season is just coming to an end so I thought I would so a fond farewell until next year to my berry fave berry! LOL

Have a Berry Great Day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper-SU! pomengranite, WW moss, pink, cream

Stamps- Savvy -strawberry, sentiment, Amuse -lots of dots long

Ink- Versamark, Color Box chianti, moss

Embellishments- Ribbon offray, Punches- SU! circle, Fiscars binding edge, Marvey square, Cuttlebug swiss dots folder

Something to make you giggle

2009-07-07T22:22:00.001-07:00

I don't know about you but every time I see Elzybell stamps I have a giggle! I simply adore Elizabeths cute humor. I can't get enough of her images either, they truly are something special.

This is for todays challenge at 365 day 130, Tickle me. If you want to play along hop on over and make a humorous card, I can't wait to see what you come up with!

R

Dawns Color Challenge #11

2009-07-01T16:00:00.001-07:00

Edited***
I have added this new photo as I decided to take Dawns challenge one step further, and actually omit white. For me this was a challenge. I always love a crisp white card base.
This cards details:
Paper - WW stone grey, PTI raspberry fizz, new leaf green, pure poppy
Stamps-Amuse thank you block, Denami leafs
Ink- Memento Tux black, Brilliance Graphite black, Versa Mark
Embellishments: Slice butterfly, MS monarch & classic butterfly punches, cuttlebug houndstooth emboss folder, Kaiser black gems, Kaiser diamond gem brad, SU! scalloped circle punch, red felt

I don't know about you but this picture is just exactly what I needed to get my MOJO going. I have been in a rut since I got home last week from the UK. My kids are not sleeping! They are really pushing me to my limits, so if any of you have any brilliant ideas as to how I can get my nearly 2 year old twins to sleep in their own beds again; I would be forever in your debt.

YES I have tried the cry it out thing; and well they just like to vomit which sends me into a rage; not really but nearly. I hate cleaning it up, especially when it is not them being ill, just being stubborn.

AH, the joys of parenthood.

So I decided take a little more then just colour from this gorgeous photo.

I am thankful for every post that Dawn does, which in turn lead me to making this into a Thank you card.

I went with flowers and leaves, because this was what jumped out at me from the photo. And finally I used my sidewalk as the back drop, to remind me of the gorgeous stone walk in this photo.

The grey is stamped with the Amuse thank you stamp over and over in black, and then I tore the edge to give it more of a rough aged look like the stone in the picture.

I just love how dramatic the felt fusing is against the grey, it really pops just like the lamp pole in Dawns photo.

The flower I just eyeballed the red felt flower, then punched out the scalloped circle in pink and crumpled it in a ball to give dimension.(Something I learned from Dawn)

One final thing to note, the leaves are stamped with the same amuse sentiment only this time with Versa Mark to give a more subtle effect.

I hope you too have a chance to take some inspiration from this challenge, in whatever form you choose!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI white, leaf green, raspberry fizz,WW stone grey
Ink- Memento tux black, versa mark

Stamps- Amuse- Thank you, Denami leaf image

Embelishments- felt fusing black, cuttlebug swiss dots folder, SU! scallop circle punch, epoxy dot embellishment (target), red felt

Home again

2009-06-24T21:01:00.001-07:00

It is good to be home. I always feel emotional when I land back at home. It is a toss up between sad that my holiday is over, and excitement to go back to my home.
I am so glad to have my own bed! Isn't that right? When you get home your bed seems so much better then it ever has before?

We had a wonderful time with our family in England and even our Swedish family came over and joined us for a portion of our holiday. As always time past too quickly, I was said to say good-bye. I take with me the memories of a life time and be thankful that I was able to share this trip with my family.
I cannot wait to get out the ink and paper so I hope to post again later this week.
TTFN,
R

KW color Inspiration #52

2009-05-16T21:58:00.000-07:00

I love this pallet don't you? It is a hard one to work with. Hard to balance the warmth of the yellow with the cool grey and blue. When I made this card I figured I would do it as a double play. So I am also playing along with 365 cards, with challenge #79 Mondays Manufacturer, so I uses a lot of PTI, and Cuttlebug as those are my fave manuf.'s at the mo.

I made this beach theme card because that is what I thought of when I saw the colour palette. I love how the two yellows combine together to give such a warm sunny feeling.

I tried to just achieve the texture of a beach with the help of my cuttlebug embossing folders.

And the Pink Cat sentiment just went so well with this card, I couldn't wait to ink it up!

( I know I do get excited about the craziest things! ) LOL

I hope you have sunshine in your day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI white, aqua mist, SU! saffron, ( shinny mustard so don't know), WW grey

Stamps- Pink Cat

Ink- PTI summer sunrise

Embellishments- Prima flowers, MM vintage brads, Cuttle bug swiss dots, divine swirl, Spellbinders large circles, pop dots, MS dove punch

Dawns colour challenge #5

2009-05-16T10:17:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful picture of all those YUMMY PTI products! And I love the colours! I had fun with this one!

I am loving making blank cards right now. I am finding that too often I have a need for a card and I don't have just the right one! Although, like many of you I have 200 others! So... in an effort to remedy that I am working on a collection of blank cards to suit any occasion.

I hope you a have a chance to play with Dawns Color Challenge too!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:

Tea Pot Card:

Paper- PTI white, dark chocolate, berry sorbet,DCWV mint sparkle

Stamps-PTI tea for two, SU! flourish

Ink- PTI fresh sno, dark chocolate, Versamark

Embellishments- Recycled hearts(broken hair band), Offray ribbon, SU! corner rounder punch

Butterfly Card:

Paper- PTI white, dark chocolate, DCWV mint & coral sparkle paper

Embellishments- strand of pearls, PTI Berry Sorbet Satin Ribbon, Butterfly(cut with die at LSS), Cuttlebug swiss dots folder, SLICE design card #3, SU! corner rounder punch

Just Because...

2009-05-16T01:02:00.000-07:00

Just because I finally had a moment to play with my SLICE! Whoohoo!
I must say I love my little SLICE. However, I don't take it out very often. I have not really figured out why. I think it is because my 1 yr old twins get into everything, and I do mean EVERYTHING!
So I took it out tonight at midnight, and started playing. Now I am tired and pleased that I had a mo to play.
I hope you take time for you JUST BECAUSE!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI pure poppy, MM notes
Stamps- PTI Damask
Ink- PTI Raspberry Fizz
Embellishments- Kaiser Bling, SLICE design card 3, Seasons card, Essential Packaging Organza flowers and leaf, MM vintage brad, Warm highlight glitter, Xyron sticker maker, strand of pearls, Offray black satin ribbon

Balanced Diet

2009-05-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

I love this sentiment by Elzybells soooooooo... much! A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand; what a HOOT!
I think this is the moto I have lived my life by!
I hope you all have a wonderful Victoria Day!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- SU! wasabi, WW brown, DCWV DP, MME DP, PTI white
Stamps- ELZYBELLS
Ink- PTI Dark chocolate, Memento Tux Black
Embellishments- hero arts gems, amuse mini twinkle stars, SU! corner rounder, COPICS

keep it to the corners

2009-05-15T16:58:00.001-07:00

This is an interesting concept; keep your embelishments in the corners. I thought of all sort of wonderful things to do with this challenge. I had flowers and punches out; but ultimately, I felt that I needed to scale it back.

I decided to add a music background to it, to double play the challege. I am so far behind this week on my stamping. I really have not had any time for anything. And as time draws nearer to my holidays in the UK next month, stamping seems to get put on the back burner. Not willingly I tell you! LOL

So this is what I came up with. I am not sure how much I like it. I feel like it is missing a focus. I tried removing the birds. I tried having only one colour of bling. So any suggestions?

Blood Type...

2009-05-14T17:56:00.000-07:00

I have a husband who not only drinks coffee; but honestly NEEDS it. Without coffee he is shall we say on EDGE all day; and none of us want that, now do we?
So when I got this cute stamp set from Elzybells it was for my dear hubs, and all my friends who enjoy coffee, with great regularity.
I don't care for the stuff myself; with the exception of a once a year latte.
The funny thing is, I love the smell of coffee, and all things flavoured with coffee, especially icecream. ODD?
Cheers,
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- SU! so saffron, black, DCWV DP
Stamps- Elzybells- image and sentiment, SU! background stamps
Ink- Memento tux black, Color Box- Prussian Blue
Embellishments- Spellbinders large circles, Creative cafe buttons, Kaiser bling, COPICS, white pencil crayon

Trio of Delight

2009-05-14T11:12:00.001-07:00

With this card I wanted to remind people that sentiments can be just as fun as images. So often we use sentiments for their original intent. Today I wanted to illustrate how much fun they can be to make your own DP.
The green card stock is stamped in versamark, with Elzybells sentiment one of those days. I love it. It is such a fun one as it makes the reader turn the card round and round to read it. Real cute, and real graphic.
Next on the tag, I used the same sentiment only stamped it in green, then layered a second sentiment on top. Don't you just love this effect?
Finally note Elzy herself, if you look closely you will see her pillow and blanket have been paper pieced. Paper piecing, is just stamping your image on DP, and cutting out the section you want in the pattern, then you adhere it to the rest of you coloured image. In this case I stamped it on 2 different DP's , as well as once on white.
This really helps those of you who hate to colour achieve wonderful images. Not to mention it really helps to tie in the DP on the rest of the card.

I hope you have a chance to give one of these techniques a try on your next card!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI leaf green, poppy red, white, Imaginisce DP
Stamps- Elzybells
Ink- Memento tux black, Versamark, COPICS, pop dots, Spellbinders, lrg circle, small scallop circles, Amuse bling, hole punch, hemp twine, red velvet ricrac,

Con- Grads!

2009-05-14T11:08:00.001-07:00

This was a hard challenge for me. I don't know anyone graduating so I was not too inspired by this challenge.
But then I saw a tassle hanging out of my sewing kit, and thought right lets get the job done. So here is my hat,

And you will have to excuse me as I had no time to wait for the glue to dry before I took the photo. This is the underside, so it fits my daughters doll. She thinks this is real fun. Who knew a card would end up as DRESS UP CLOTHES?

Treating Yourself

2009-05-14T10:54:00.001-07:00

As women, we don't often put ourselves first. I don't know if it is innate, or if we are so well trained by our mothers, to look after others; that we forget about ourselves. Either way, one thing is clear we need to treat ourselves every once in a while.

I made this card for several of the 365 challenges that I have missed in recent weeks. First lets talk about where it started. Recycling, that's right way back on Green Day. OK, I couldn't think of what to do. In fact I had too many ideas so it never got completed. So I looked at my list this week of unfinished projects, and the Recycling card was hanging over my head. I was eating an Popsicle, and that is where it all started. Then I looked around for some plastic, and I found wrapping off my kids diapers! Yes good things come from strange places!
Then I went back to my list, and thought right CANDY challenge done, and yes I can HAND WRITE my sentiment. That's right I have caught up 3 challenges in 1! It may seem cheeky, but to me it is BRILLIANT!

Now I know not all of us are going to rush out and treat ourselves today to the SPA, but perhaps a simple quiet moment and Latte, or a wonderful rich piece of chocolate?

Count your blessings, and treat yourself YOU DESERVE IT!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI leaf green, white, poppy red, DCWV- DP
Embellishments- SU! tag punches sm, and lrg, 1 1/2 " circle punch, pop dots, diaper plastic wrapping, Popsicle stick, hemp twine, orange marker, K&Co gems

Happy MOthers Day to All!

2009-05-10T18:45:00.001-07:00

Happy Mothers Day to everyone! I had a wonderful day away from my kids yesterday. I went to Seattle with my friend and we spent 18 hours shopping! I actually came home as usual with things only for my kids. But let's not get into that ongoing issue!
So today you are going to have to bare with me. I have a whole lot of cards to post. I will try to go back and post all the details if I get a chance.

I hope each of you have a wonderful day whether you are a Mother or Not!
R

Kw#51 x 2

2009-05-06T23:32:00.001-07:00

I am really feeling this happy color selection from Kristina this week. I have been playing around with the colours all day!
This is one of my very fave DP! And as luck would have it, it just works perfectly with this weeks colour inspiration.
I made this card for my BFF she is going through a very rough time with this economy. I am going to post it to her tomorrow. I hope it catches the "Pineapple Express to Hawaii"; she truly needs a pick me up.

I hope you too are having a great Stamping Day!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI sunrise, SU! choco chip, American Crafts- Roof Top Garden ( MMMmmm)
Stamps- SU! flourish, PTI sentiment
Ink- PTI fresh snow, dark choco
Embellishments- Hero Arts- gems, Offray ribbon, SU! scallop lace punch

KW#51

2009-05-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

I am loving these colours they all work so well together. They create a balance and symmetry. I love how the bright pink is grounded by the Earthiness of the brown and mustard.

However, I can not decide where I like the bow. Can you help me?

What a fun and happy photo this is! Did you know you can send Kristina pictures for colour inspirations? She has a spot on her website, and that is such a fun idea. Amy sent Kristina the most wonderful picture for inspiration today. I love it. Almost as much as I love PTI Damask by Dawn McVey.

I have been having so much fun with this set. I love creating patterns. Do you too? Were you lucky enough to get this set too?

Happy Hump Day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper-PTI sunrise, raspberry fizz, white

Stamps- PTI Damask

Ink- PTI dark choco, raspberry fizz, Color Box chalk mustard

Embellishments- PTI ribbon, coconut button ( Hawaii sorry), hemp twine

You are There...

2009-05-05T18:20:00.000-07:00

Today at 365 it is Think Pink day.
I was going to post a bright pink card I made earlier this week but had not had a chance to post. But I decided that does not help the purpose of 365 cards. The whole idea is to make a card each day. With that said, I stuck to my guns and made a card.
I love this new little stamp by Inkadinkadoo. Are the birds not just too sweet for words? I love how sweet the pink is, it blends well with this cute stamp. I am usually a person who does not gravitate towards sweet stamps, so this is a real change for me. As is using this soft pink. I have a lot of it, I used it for my daughters ballet invites years ago. And since I have no idea what the colour is and who makes it, I figure it is time to use it up.
Do you get to that stage? Focus on trying to use paper?

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- pink?, DP fiscars
Stamp- Inkadinkadoo
Ink- SU! choco chip
Embellishments- Hero Arts gems, stickles icicle, pop dots

Yesterday at 365 Cards Pam challenged us to really think hard and make a different card.

"You are there and I am here"

I must say this sentiment challenge was VERY difficult.

I got out all sorts of stamps and started trying to think of how I was going to accomplish this. I had airplains, I had cute critters, I had knights and princesses, and then I decided to change my mind all together. No stamps at all. I tried thickers. I spelled the words out in all kinds of catchy ways; this too did not prove fruitful for me.

When at last the idea of cutting a simple paper suit case came to mind. And in the end simplicity won out!

I would love to see what you come up with. Please come join us at 365 cards, where there is a new challenge every day!

Mallow Out

2009-05-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

Let's start off by saying this Elzybell Tea for Two set is just the cutest. I have had so much fun playing with it this month. I honestly can not get enough of it.

Looking at this card, I can almost smell hot cocoa; don't you feel the same way?

When I made this card I stamped and coloured the image in and then picked a sentiment to fit my mood. In hind sight, I should have put the marshmellows on top to suit the cute sentiment. But that is just not how it came together this time.

As for my mood let me explain...

Last night, ~UGH~ I said things I shouldn't have. Don't you hate when you do that? You know better yet you lose control?

Some times as adults we need to remember what we tell our children. "Think before you Speak", "Words can sometimes Hurt", "Don't say things you wouldn't want said to you". HMMMMM

What I now have to say to myself is mellow out! Go get some RETAIL THERAPY! I don't know about you but shopping always helps me get a grip!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper-PTI white, berry sorbet, SU! choco chip

Stamps- Elzybells- tea for two, SU! Flourish

Ink- PTI dark chocolate

Embellishments- stickles Icicle, Marvey scallop square punch, SU! circle punch, SU! corner rounder punch, pop dots, cuttlebug swiss dots folder, AC thickers

Mothers Day...

2009-05-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

With Mothers Day quickly approaching I have to sit back and think .

I don't have any communication with my mother. And every year at this time I get mad, real mad. I don't get mad because I miss her, or wish her back in my life.

In fact quite the opposite, I get mad for all the things she missed out on. I get mad when I look at my kids and wonder how anyone could leave their young children. I get mad thinking how selfish it is to ever think of yourself before your children. I get mad at the moms who are out there who just don't seem to care about their kids, like being a mother is a right, not a privilege.

I get mad for the thousands of kids who grow up without a parent.

And then, I stop, I breathe, and I remember my life was better because she left.

My life is better because had my mother never left our family; my dad would never have remarried. And I would never have had the most wonderful step-mother there ever could be.

She fills every vacant spot my mother left and more. She is a mother and a friend to me; she is a bridge between me and my father. She has her own natural children, and grandchildren; yet she manages to love us all unconditionally and individually.

She helps me with my children every week, and she is there no matter what happens.

This year having had to deal with young twins in hospital, I got to realize just how important she is. She is the glue that holds our family together. She keeps me grounded, she comforts me and lets me cry when I need to. Without her I would not be a good mother. I did not have a good example of what a mother is until I met her.

She changed my life FOREVER!

My definition of Mother may be different than yours. But no matter what your definition is you need to be thankful for LIFE!

Using numbers

2009-05-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

I do not often advertise numbers on my cards. Perhaps this is because I would be horrified to see a number on my own birthday card!
This card was created for the challenge earlier this week to use numbers at 365 cards.
I made this card for my niece, I think when you are under 25 you are very proud and excited to celebrate your birthday. It is not until you officially have your 15th, 29th birthday that you begin to hate getting old!
Forever 29!
R

mmm Cookies!

2009-05-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love hot cookies? Fresh of course just out of the oven. I love how the smell fills the house and lingers around in corners to remind you how sweet the cookies are.
OK I admit it, I need help!
I just can't help but think about cookies when playing with this fun set by Elzybells. The sentiments are so fun; and I can send them to any of my friends when they need a laugh, or pick me up.
R
It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- SU! choco chip, PTI berry sorbet, Pebbles DP
Stamps- Elzybells
Ink- SU! choco chip
Embellishments: COPICS, Dollar store paper flowers, button(grans), pop dots

PTI Challenge, & 365 cards

2009-05-02T16:35:00.001-07:00

Today over at Nichole Heady's blog; there is a challenge to use an inspiration picture to create a card. And over at 365 there was a challenge to use 8 flowers; as well as, earlier this week to use a leaf. So I decided to combine these 3 ideas, based on Lisa Johnson's gorgeous photo of the Tulip fields in Washington.

First I cut the luscious flower images out of PTI Raspberry Fizz Mix DP. Are those flowers not just yummy, and fresh on their own?

TIP- when you are cutting from DP and you have images that are only half there as they are part of the edge of the paper, don't think they are rubbish. Just position them on your paper project so they are also on an edge. This way it will look more natural, as well as allowing you to use all of your images from your DP.

Then I took lime green paper and made stems. This is shown in the first image above.

Finally I added leaves, which are actually lime green flower petals cut apart. I had these lime green flowers forever, and then one day it occurred to me they make the perfect leaf. Don't you agree?

TIP-When I have things that I don't like the way they are I try to think outside the box and reinvent them.

Perhaps you too have items in your paper craft supplies that need a new life. Give it a try I am sure you will find all those bits useful if you just be a little creative.

I hope you have a wonderful Weekend!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI white, Raspberry Fizz mix, scrap of lime green, scrap of blue

Stamps- PTI Damask sentiment

Ink- Black Brilliance

Embellishments- Hero Arts gems, MS butterfly punch, prima lime green flowers,cuttlebug swiss dots folder

Dawns colour challenge

2009-04-30T11:31:00.001-07:00

This weeks colour challenge by Dawn. Bright pink, medium pink, dark Grey and white. These colours make me think of everything feminine, romantic and stylish. So I tried to make a card with that in mind. It is very girlie, but I like how it turned out. A real departure from most of my stamping.

I hope you have a good Day!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper-PTI blush,grey,raspb fizz white
Stamps-PTI Damask
Ink- PTI blush, grey, raspb fizz, fresh snow
Embellishments- SU! scallop lace punch, Offray ribbon, Hero Arts gems, SU! ticket punch, pop dots, PTI buttons, hemp twine

I just got my new PTI goodies. I know most of you have been playing around with yours for a week, but I have to wait; until I can go pick mine up in the states.

I love the colour choice this week. Wonderful colours that I would, actually have decorated most of my house in.

It's a beautiful day here in Vancouver. Sunny and warm. And more importantly ladies I am off for a few hours away from my kids. My mom is in the back yard with them right now while I go to lunch with a friend.

SO... TFN

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! choco chip, PTI white, Aqua mist

Stamp- PTI

Ink- PTI dark chocolate, Snow white

Embellishments- pop dots, COPICS

Playing with words

2009-04-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

I am doing a bit of a double post here. This week over at 365 there have been word challenges. Yesterdays was the above, I miss you. That was a relatively easy one.
However todays word WHAT, left me to think for a while. I tried to think of all the times I would have said what? to my friends.
2 things came to mind; when they bought a home and when they got engaged. So I looked through my stamps and found an Amuse image that seemed to fit.

May your day be filled with sunshine and blessings!
R

Add a Fish...

2009-04-27T16:17:00.001-07:00

How has your day been?
Mine has been one of those very fine days that often seem so rare. It has been wonderful and sunny. I managed to take the twins outside to play in the back yard while I did my work on my lap top. How perfect is that? Being paid to sit in the sun with my children? Well I must say I am very fortunate to work for a wonderful and flexible company. You might be wondering why is she talking about work? We are here to talk PAPER! Well my work is called Neptune, and since it is add a fish day at 365 cards; it made me think of work and my wonderful day! LOL
Right, enough rambling.
I have only 1 fish stamp and he is huge! He is called Big eyed Fish, is that not such a literal name? It makes me laugh every time I use him. Obviously, small things amuse us simple minded people!
I hope you had a Wonderful Day too; and I'ld love to hear about it!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- WW burnt orange, scrap of an old card green, MME DP, PTI white
Stamp- Stamp It- fish, AMUSE- sentiments
Embellishments- Marvey-Square, and Scalloped Square punches, hemp twine, paper clip, pop dots, cuttlebug embossing border, SCOR-IT

CPS 113

2009-04-27T09:34:00.001-07:00

First I want to tell you how much I love these images! Elzybells tea for two and Damask PTI! What a fun pairing!

Here is the entire card from the front! But wait it has more inside!

A couple fave teas! AND...

I just love sending cards with little prezzies inside. And This card I made for both 365 and CPS. It holds tea, and a surprise GC behind it. I just love how the damask adds a wonderful timelessness to the card. And what do you think is the Elzybell tea for two tea cup not devine highlighted in the middles of the Damask? MMMMMMMM

Makes me wanna cuppa! LOL

KW #50

2009-04-25T22:02:00.001-07:00

Well ladies I have to love ya and leave ya! I have so much to do so I am just leaving you the details today!
Sorry,
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- SU! choco chip, MME DP, PTI pure poppy, white, Scrap of pink dot DP?
Stamps-Elzybells- Image and sentiment
Ink- PTI dark chocolate
Embellishments- K&Co bling, SU! corner rounder punch, COPICS

Bath time...

2009-04-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

This is a simple recipe card from 365. It was less then a minute to do yet the results I think speak for themselves. So ladies don't just hop today, participate! Please join us! I can't wait to see what yo can create with this fun and simple recipe:
5 x5 plain card stock card
4 x 4 patterned paper
a solid shape, heart, square, circle,
3 blings
and Alpha letters
If you are like me and short of time you can also go and play an easy one over at OCC. It is so fun your fave colour combo! I love periwinkle. In my last house I painted my cupboards that colour and got endless compliments. I adore it. And now I live in a house where I have painted a great deal of it sage green. So when I saw this yummy paper I thought this is for me, and bought 10 sheets! What is your fave combo? I can not wait to hop around and see!

Bath time at our house is a time for relaxing and fun. It is a time when we cleanse our entire body and mind. My children are 5 years apart and they don't often have much in common. But when it comes to bath time the age gap disappears and everyone unwinds. When I look at this picture I think how fun it is to be a kid and just enjoy the moment!

Live well,

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- WW lime, one heart one mind DP

Embellishments- SU! circle punch, MM alpha stickers lilac velvet, Queen &Co bling

Catch up Day!

2009-04-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

First off Happy Earth Day! I hope everyone had a chance to make our world a bit greener. I would love to know what you did to acknowledge Earth day.
We walked our daughter to school, I stayed home instead of running errands, I worked remotely on lap top, instead of driving to the office, and I used scraps in my cards today. I am no saint; that is for certain but I think in our own way we can each make a difference.
As for catching up, I have loaded oodles of ellements into this challenge. I was inspired by a photo of a red flower from 365, then added in the colour combo of RED, Black, and Yellow from Color throw down; patterned paper, ribbon and an image that flies from Sketches by Tamara, and finally I added blossoms, brads, and circles again from 365.

I hope you all have a chance to do your part today!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI kraft, WW black, Anna Griffin DP
Stamp- Pink Cat- sentiment, Stamp it - image
Ink- Brilliance Black
Embellishments- MM chip board and brads, hemp twine, button, SU! corner rounder punch,ribbon, SU! tag punch lrg

Double Header!

2009-04-22T13:12:00.001-07:00

Today is a glorious day here in Beautiful British Columbia. We are enjoying a lovely sunny day. What a wonderful day for Earth day. My daughter had to get up an hour early; so she could walk to school. And with this weather nobody complained; talk about a bonus!
Since it was Earth day, I thought I would create a card in Earth colours. I played along with CPS and Cardalicious.
Notice the scoring along the edge of the circles? That is a fun way to add a little something to a very simple card; don't ya think?
I got to go get the twins down for a nap!

Enjoy Earth Day!
Reduse, Recycle, and Reuse!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI kraft, Imaginisce DP
SCOR-IT

Cosmo Cricket and your LSS=FREEBIES

2009-04-20T15:46:00.001-07:00

Do you love your local scrapbook store? Well, if you do tell COSMO about it. The fine team at Cosmo Cricket want to know the name of your favorite LSS, where it's located and why you love it so much.
If there isn't a store in your area, let them know your favorite independent online retailer and why they are so great!
Not only is this a great chance to give your store some free publicity, but they will pick one random commenter to win an Early Bird Paper Crafting Kit and their LSS will win the entire Early Bird Collection!
Let all your friends and neighbors know to support your favorite store by commenting as it will increase the odds of your store winning.....
So stop by on tell COSMO all about your LSS!!http://cosmocricket.typepad.com/cosmo_cricket/2009/04/early-bird-giveaway.html

I'll be back with some cards tonight!
R

Creating Pattern

2009-04-18T16:39:00.001-07:00

Here is a real fun and easy thing to do with your SCOR-IT. Create a pattern. In the above card I simply scored in 1" increments. Then to spice it up a tad, I added a cuttlebug border in between. It then becomes your own embossed DP. Cool huh?

I hope you have a chance to give it a try too!
R

Accordian Card & Pop up Card

2009-04-18T15:27:00.000-07:00

This fun card is a pop up card. For instructions on how to make your own just go over to the SCOR-IT blog.
Would it not make a great place setting card for a friend coming to lunch on her birthday? I think I will be doing this one over again with Seasonal themes. I have had so much fun this week playing with my Elzybell stamps. Don't you just think she is the cutest?
For Christmas I might alter her by making her hold the present that the stamp actually has rather then masking it and adding my own feature to her hands. Valentines she can hold a heart, Hallowe'en a pumpkin, you get the idea. Fun stuff!

Now for the great 2 for card. This is a part recycled card for the OCC as all the bits are recycled or scraps; also it is part of the fun SCOR-IT week at 365 cards.
What a great SCOR-IT week at 365 cards! There has been so many great challenges. Some I have not done in a long time and others are brand new. But all of them remind me how valuable my SCOR-IT tool is. And frankly ladies it is not just a work surface, so remove that blue pad, and get creative with your scoring!
From the front this looks like a simple card. It is a simple card to make, but it just has a few extra folds inside to make it extra special.

I'm sorry ladies I know this picture does not show you all the angles but with my limited photo skills this was the best I came up with.

Have a great weekend and I hope you SCORE!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! Choco Chip,turquoise, DP Imaginisce, PTI white

Stamps- Pink Cat- friend, SU! flourish, true friend,

Ink-PTI dark choco, Verse mark

Embellishments- Kaiser- gem, and gem flower, hemp twine, button RECYCLED, ribbon scrap RECYCLED(from Easter candy MMM), SU! tag punch small(RECYCLED flipped over and reused),MS classic butterfly & monarch butterfly punches

Matchbook birthday

2009-04-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

I am taking a wee break from work as my computer is ticking me off. So I figure no time like the present to STAMP!

I am really lov'n playing with my Elzybells again this week. Been a while since I dug them out. But once I do it is love all over again! It is liking visiting an old friend... I know you ladies know what I mean! LOL

So here is the deal, you take a 12x12" paper, cut it at 4 1/2" and then use your SCOR-IT, and score at 5" and again at 10". Fold it like a match book. Then add a tiny bit of adhesive to make a wee pocket inside. Then stuff anything you wish inside. I wanted to put a packet of flower seeds in, but alas no time to run off to the store, so STAMPS will have to do!

Now for the fun part. Decorating the front. I just picked a fave Elzy stamp inked her up; and masked the present in front. Then coloured her in with my copics, and cut a flower from the Designer Paper to link the image to the background.

Ladies I am telling you; if you have not tried masking and altering your stamps; please DO! In these hard economic times it helps to stretch your stamping dollars!

Experiment, and Enjoy my friends!

It's All in the Ingredients:

Paper- DCWV DP, scraps

Ink- Memento Tux black

Stamps- Elzybells, Pink Cat Sentiment

Embellishments- Hero Arts bling, hemp twine, Marvey heart punch, SU! tag punch, hole punch, button, pop dots

Tri fold with Tea?

2009-04-14T19:59:00.000-07:00

I warn you ladies this Elzybell " Tea for Two" set is addicting! I just love it. And speaking of love what do you think about this yummy paper by PEBBLES? Is is not just yummo?

This card is so simple to make honestly 2mins. All of you have time for this one. And who would not want to give such a delicious card to a well deserving friend who needs a pick me up?

So here is the deal I cut the paper at 41/2", and it is a piece 12x12". Then pull out your SCOR-IT, and score at 5" and again at 10". That is it ladies fold it up and add some adhesive to the flap and you have got yourselves a perfect tea holder! Easy peasy!

To embellish I just added a ribbon, a button and a mini tag, with just the cutest sentiment and tea cup!

To finish add your fave bags of tea, and POST it!

Bottoms up!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- Pebbles DP.TI white

Stamps- Elzybells- tea for two

Ink- PTI dark choco

Embellishments- SU! tag punch, Offray sheer ribbon, COPICS, hemp twine, button, pop dot

Tea for Two

2009-04-14T16:41:00.000-07:00

In an effort to blow your socks off...
I played with my current favorite stamp sets: PTI - Damask, and Elzybells -Tea for Two.
Do you see how well these sets have combined? Do you see how much fun it is to play with stamps and mix unlikely pairs together? It is like MAGIC! LOL

I simply love how this card turned out. It was so much fun. It did take a wee while to line everything up and to pick the colour scheme but ladies... ME LIKEY!

Did you notice the large Damask? The tea cup (ELZY) is an outline cup, and then I simply coloured with my COPIC around the edge of the Damask design. This does 2 things: it allows the Damask design to remain whole and intact, and also gives a wonderful design to the tea cup and makes it a wee bit extra special.

And here my friends, I just wanted to illustrate how fun it is to make a card with options. In the above I put in 2 very fine tea bags... or so you think...

In this final view I have added a shot of the gift card that is hiding behind the tea as an added surprise for the receiver! Would you not just love to receive a card like this? I would so much, so my friends get stamping and send a friend a welcome CUPPA!

Cheers!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- K&Co DP, PTI white

Stamps- Elzybells- Tea for Two, PTI - Damask

Ink - PTI dark chocolate, SU! soft sky

Embellishments- blue pearls(my grans collection sorry ladies no idea where to get this stuff), hero arts bling, Stickles icicle, COPICS

Better Latte...

2009-04-14T13:39:00.000-07:00

I have been very bad lately with mailing cards out. Have you done that also? I have about oh... 400 cards on hand and yet I forget to make the time to mail cards out. Don't get me wrong a month before the birthday I make a card but then I remember usually the day of that I never mailed it!LOL

For these occassions, I like to send a humerous card. Todays card fits the bill. And it holds a nice crisp $20 BILL too!

I was lucky enough to have been given this cute "Tea for Two" set by Elzybells for my birthday; last month. I have been itching to use it. So today, I finally got it out and started playing. I must admit I have been having oodles of fun with the set. The possibilities are endless!

I have made loads of cards with it today; so if you pop by again this week there is plenty more on the way!

Have a good day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- WW blue, light pink, DCWV DP,

Stamps- Elzybells - image and sentiment(Tea for Two), PTI- Birthday sentiment(Damask)

Ink- PTI dark chocolate

Embellishments- K&Co bling, Whales Tale circle punch, Marvey scallop square punch, & square punch,Stickles Star dust, COPICS

PS Don't forget it is SCOR-IT week at 365 cards!

Hello to you!

2009-04-11T16:11:00.000-07:00

Well this is turning out to be the first good weekend in a very, very , very, long time! Today my friend Debbie came over and I have not seen her in 6 months. It was wonderful to visit with her and her daughter.
We took the kids to the mall and they had a good time making easter hats. After the mall, her daughter and my daughter had a great time walking bare foot at the beach looking for shells. Then we came home; and they did a terrific job of making some Easter eggs.

They played really nice together which allowed me to visit my friend. I love when that happens!

OK now for why you really stopped by; the card, easy peasy, simple background card. I just took 2 stamps that were similar in size and alternated stamping them. If you want to join us at 365 cards just hop on over and use Mr. Linky! Gotta love that guy!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI white, sweet blush
Stamps- SU!
Ink- PTI sweet plush, raspberry fizz, Brilliance graphite black
Embellishments- MS butterfly stamp, hero art bling, offray ribbon.

Miracle

2009-04-10T19:56:00.000-07:00

This First card is for the challenge to use orange, green and purple over at 365 cards. I found this challenge to be super hard! I do not usually gravitate to any of these colours. I personally prefer bright primary colours.

I have been struggling all week with making a card for my friend who is being Baptised into a new faith this weekend. I didn't know what to make, and I certainly had no clue what to give her in recognition of this important day in her life.

I finally settled on a pretty cross pendent, and this card. What do you think? Is it too Easter like?

R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI white, Kraft, DP scrap blue, scrap of green
Stamps- Stampa Rosa
Ink- Fresco pink chalk
Embellishments- Kaiser gem flowers, Offray ribbon, raffia, MS dove punch, cuttlebug swiss dots folder

Laughter is ....

2009-04-10T16:53:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I have had one of those months! My twins have both been in the hospital, my daughter has missed a week of school with the stomach flu, my hubs had to take 2 weeks off work to stay home while I stayed in the hospital with my babies, I got the stomach flu, and if all this was not enough, we had to cancel our trip to the UK!

SO... what I have to say after all this is...

Laughter is the Best Medicine!

If you can not laugh in times like this; then you will find it very hard to survive each day! LOL

R

This card is real simple and anyone can do this!

TIP: when you don't have flowers or any other embellishment to match your card you can colour them to match using your COPICS!

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI kraft, WW burnt orange
Stamps: Elzybells- sentiment
Ink- PTI Dark Chocolate
Embellishments: SU! corner rounder punch, paper flowers (dollar store), creative cafe buttons, hemp twine, K&Co bling, pop dots, cuttlebug swiss dot embossing folder, COPICS

Good Friday!

2009-04-10T16:13:00.001-07:00

How is everybody today? I am so glad to have time at home with my family. In that sense no matter what your faith it is a Good Friday!

Have you soaked in the yummy colours at Kristina's Color Challenge? Is that image just about the most fun and inspirational piece you have seen in ages? It is for me. It speaks to me. It is so fresh yet has a wonderful reference to the past. I love retro, yet modern looks. Some how this is a testament to everything OLD is NEW again!

I hope you having a Good Friday!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper: SU! Rose red, Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, PTI white, WW black, Imaginisce DP

Stamps: Rubber Stampede

Ink- Memento Tux Black

Embellishments: MS dove punch, Marvey scalloped square punch, pop dots, SU! corner rounder punch

A wee bit of Aloha

2009-04-09T19:30:00.001-07:00

No time to chat. So I thought I would just leave ya a wee bit of paper fun!

Have a great night!

Back to Paper!

2009-04-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

I can not explain nor put to words just how much I missed my paper crafts. As many of you know my twins have each spent close to a week in the hospital this month and I have had to stay and care for them.

While they are not completely recovered they are on the mend. Thank-you so much to all of you who wrote me of your kind prayers and wishes for my family. I honestly believe they would not be recovering so quickly without all the prayers that were offered on their behalf. I am in debt to you all!

I missed my paper more then anything! When I think of all the hours i was just sitting in the hospital praying and hoping for my babies to be well, the one thing I wish I had to comfort me was paper. However, there would not have been a mo to play even if I had it. I could not let my babies out of my arms. And now LORD help me! They are completely mum dependent; they are glued to me! No complaints, it is lovely to be needed!

Today I decided to steal a mo for myself and play with paper. I played along with 365 cards. Ladies I tell you I love my Scor-it! I so often find that with heavy paper it is near impossible to make a perfect fold line without this valuable tool. And to create a quilt card without it? Why even try! Trust me ladies this is the must have tool!

I hope you too play along!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! choco chip, MME DP

Embellishments- paper flowers dollar store, button creative cafe, hemp twine, Marvey scallop square punch, hand cut paper leaves(green scrap paper), SCOR-IT

Dawns Color Challenge #3

2009-04-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday to YOU!
It has been a long time since I have had time to play with paper, or blog. Since I last wrote I have spent nearly 2 weeks in the hospital iwth my twins. Bowen got Pneumonia first and was in hosptial for a week. And then 2 days after we got home Leila got the stomach flu and had to be treated in hospital for dehydration.
Thankfully that is all behind us! We are all on the mend and the weather has turned fine too!

Now to the card, the punch is MS and I got it for my birthday from my 6yr old daughter. And well I have been desperately trying to figure out how I was going to use it. So I did what I could with the 5mins I had today. I love the colours Dawn picked this week, and if I get a chance I am going to play with this combo so more later in the week.

Happy Days!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI kraft, sweet blush, berry sorbet, poppy red
Stamps - SU!
Ink- PTI berry sorbet
Embellishments- buttons creative cafe, seahorse punch MS, hemp twine,circle punch SU!, paper flower dollar store variety.

Dawns color challenge#2/KW#48

2009-03-28T16:12:00.000-07:00

Well ladies this is a quick one. I made this card a while back. I have yet to post it and I thought since it matched Dawn and Kristina's color challenges I would post it now.

Don't you find it interesting how 2 totally different ladies, can find inspiration in 2 totally different spots and yet they are so incredibly similar? I love this. I admire Dawn and Kristina and to see that they both see the same colour combo means that it is gonna be a big hit this spring. So ladies watch out the turquoise sandals, tanks and bikinis are gonna sell fast!
If you check back later in the week I will post another card when I have a chance to get back to stamping.
I am super busy; in fact flying out the door to go back and stay at the hospital with my son. My son has Pneumonia, and has been in the hospital for a week. He is slowly regaining strength but is still oxygen and IV dependent. I hope to be home with him in a few days, and back to stamping. Until then, please keep him in your prayers.
R

Hello

2009-03-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

I am not able to post any cards this week as I am in the hospital. My son is sick and has been admitted since Monday. He has pneumonia, and it is viral so it will take time for him to get better.
I hope to be home with him and back to my paper, ink and Bling shortly.

Live life well, you never know what tomorrow will bring.
R

Inspired by a song...

2009-03-21T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today there is a very different and fun challenge over at 365 cards. The challenge is to make a card inspired by a song. All that kept coming to mind was the fab set on my wish list at PTI that Lisa designed "Love songs". URRRRRRRRR and it is still on my "dream" list not in my hot hands.

So I put on the radio in the car on the way to the hospital and I heard the song FREEDOM. And I kept trying to think how I would use this in a card. But after hours of waiting to have my son checked out turned in to him being admitted with Pneumonia; I forgot all about the challenge.

So when I got home with new meds and he was asleep I took refuge with my paper.

THANK heavens for PAPER!

So he is resting and this is what I have come up with; to go with the song FREEDOM!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! choco chip, Baja blue, American crafts- craft fair,

Embellishments: ribbon- Offray, K&Co - gems

Inside - OUT

2009-03-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge at 365 cards is to keep the main image and sentiment on the inside of your card. http://365cards.blogspot.com/2009/03/day-20-inside-out.html

Thankfully, this was an easy one for me as I made this yesterday before the challenge was even posted!

Perhaps I can see the future!{{wink}} NOT!

My dear stamping friends have a great day, and make some time for fun and give this one a try!

KW color challenge

2009-03-19T16:35:00.001-07:00

Don't you just love these yummy fabrics? I love how the black puncuates the colours and makes everything so clean and crisp. Kristina you picked a great jumping off point for us this week.

How fun yet challenging to work with so many happy colours!

All of my butterflies are actually cut out of different scraps of DP, unfortunately this picture does not do them justice.

Thanks for stopping by,
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- SU! black, red, regal rose, WW baby blue, ballet pink, DP scraps
Embellishments- SU! scallop circle punch, Whale Tail circle punch, MM glitter letters, MS monarch butterfly punch

Elzybells Challenge #16- Using Dots

2009-03-19T16:18:00.000-07:00

Hi - ya!

I am just looking out the window at the pouring rain and thinking how much I want the sun to come out. Since I can't make it sunny, I will just have to go to the next best thing...

STAMPING! with Elzybells of course!

The fortnight challenge is to create a card with polk-a-dots! There are so many fun ways to achieve this, and if you hop on over to Elzybells you can see what the DT came up with.

I used, cuttlebug swiss dot folder, spellbinders large circles, as well as sneaking in a polk-a-dotted table cloth.

What can you come up with?

Have a great Day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI white, kraft, sweet blush

Stamps- Elzybells

Ink- Memento tux black

Embellishments- paper flowers, hero art- gem, stickles- start dust, COPICS, cuttlebug swiss dot folder, spellbinders large circles, button{{my stash}},hemp twine

Color Throwdown #34

2009-03-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

Don't you hate when you can't get an image to look straight? I assure you this is straight in real life! UGH

I have been dying to dig into this gorgeous paper by Heidi Grace. I got it moons ago, but it was such an interesting colour combo I never really knew quite how to tackle it.

That was until today; when I popped by CTD today and saw the colour challenge I went straight to this paper and thought I have got to use this. I find it really interesting to have blush such asweet innocent colour compared to the navy and kiwi. But in the end I like how the sweet blush pops against the darker colours, lovely contrast!

I hope you have a wonderful day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! kiwi kiss, not quite navy, PTI sweet blush

Stamps- pink cat

Ink-Fresco chalk navy

Embellishments- SU! scallop circle, WT circle punch, Hero Arts gems, MS monarch butterfly punch

Keep it to yourself

2009-03-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Hi- ya!

How is everybody today?

I had an interesting night last night. I decided to go to the US shopping late at night with a friend. So we went shopping, and had a good time. When we were leaving the mall at 10pm, we were rear ended by a young girl.

We were fine and our car had some minor bumper damage. The girl asked if we were OK? We said yes, and she left with out even getting out of her car to access the damage and offer her info. And unfortunately, we did not manage to get her licence plate, or drivers info. So here is the question; was this a hit and run? Or did the girl honestly think all was fine?

I personally am hoping the later because I hate to think ill of anyone.

Ok so lets talk cards. Have you stamped today? I would love to hear what you stamped if you did. If you didn't I am here to remind you to get the rubbaha out and hit the ink!

Today at 365 the challenge is to make a birthday card but keep the sentiment to the inside of the card. This was real fun. I had to mask off the words at the bottom of this cute little dog to accomplish the task, but I think it turned out well. Give it a try and I am sure you too will have fun with this one!

Make it a good day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- DP American craft, WW red, chocolate brown, olive, PTI white

Stamps- AMUSE, Uptown rubber stamps

Embellishments- square punches, cuttlebug swiss dot folder, K&Co gems, pop dots

Go Green!

2009-03-18T11:42:00.001-07:00

Making a card entirely of green? Well that is the challenge today at 365 cards. I have a lot of images that work well with green so it was not a hard task. However, after I finished the card I thought it needed a bit of something more.

That is when I added the buttons. I originally had green ribbon and green buttons. Well it was sooooooooo green. So I decided to take things into my own hands and add a little interest, focus and texture.

Give it a try ladies see what you come up with.

Soft and Pretty!

2009-03-17T15:58:00.001-07:00

I really love when a card turns out better then you hoped! Ok, I know this is a simple card, no colouring, no cutting, and almost no stamping. But look at it, pretty, soft and well balanced.

ME LIKIE!

This is my take on Sundays challenge over at 365 cards. Have you figured out that I am trying to make a card a day for an entire year? Come join us!

http://365cards.blogspot.com/2009/03/day-15-super-sketchy-sunday.html

Have a great Day!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- WW light blue, MME DP

Ink- PTI fizz

Stamps- Pin Cat - sentiment

Embellishments- Offray ribbon, K&Co- gems, scalloped square punch, paper flowers dollar store, Creative Cafe buttons

Sunshine!

2009-03-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot of wierd weather lately. We have been getting a mixed bag. Each day seems to have the 4 seasons all in one day. I am ready and waiting for the sun to shine all day not just for mins in between, rain, sleet, and snow!

Spring is coming1 And this is how I know...

When I went into my car, after the sun had been shining for about an hour I noticed something for the first time this year. What do you think it was?

The car was warm! It was that lovely kind of warm that makes you sleepy the minute it hits. The kind of warm that makes a cat lie in a sunny window for a snooze! Yes, Spring is coming!

With that, I will tell you about todays card. It was a challenge yesterday posted at 365 cards.http://365cards.blogspot.com/2009/03/day-16-imagine-this.html

Use the image of the sun in a card. Ok honestly, I am not thrilled with this card; but ladies I tried! I think it is that I did not have a sentiment to go with it,; so I hand wrote Sunshine! And well I don't care for my writing so perhaps this is the entire issue I have with the card. What do you think?

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2009-03-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday. And it did not go very well. Unfortunately, my kids were still sick, and that meant that I had to deal with screaming, crying, and yakking twins! And let me tell you not a good way to spend your birthday.

However, as the day progressed my luck turned and things got better.

My sweet hubs took my daughter shopping and they bought me 4 punches, and some new ribbon! That is a thoughtful and lovely gift! Then my hubs picked up Sushi; since we were obviously not going to take all the sick kids to a restaurant! LOL

I ended my day on a great note I watched Australia, which I had wanted to see in the theatre and just never made it there. So all in all, it was a lovely day!

Today, since my kids woke up in a good mood and without a fever; for the first time this month, I am feeling lucky!

I think the luck of the Irish is with me; so I thought I would play along with today's 365 cards challenge. 3 bows, and 3 ribbons. DIFFICULT! I really didn't want to peak at the other cards cuz I wanted to tackle this one on my own. And the above is my attempt.

Hopefully the luck of the Irish rubs off on you today too!

Quick and Easy THX

2009-03-14T17:06:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I am getting ready to take my crew to the UK to visit family in a few weeks. Part of this prep also means getting cards ready. For me, it is a nice hostess gift to give my family for graciously inviting my CREW of 5 to stay with them!
Also, it means having Thank- You cards on hand when I get home to post, to say Thank you for a lovely visit.

This set was made as a double play. It was for the OCC http://ourcreativecorner6.blogspot.com/2009/03/occ-limited-supply-challenge.htmltoday limited to 3 layers as well as; last weeks challenge at 365 cards http://365cards.blogspot.com/2009/03/day-5-thankful-its-thursday.htmlto make a thank you easily re-produced.

I think you will find that a set like this is quick and invaluable to have on hand!
R

It's all in the ingredients:
Paper- PTI white, Cherry DP?, WW red
Stamps- SU! image, PTI Damask- sentiment
Embellishments-scallop square punch, cuttlebug swiss dot folder

Paper Flowers 365

2009-03-14T16:57:00.000-07:00

I made this card recently and just thought it is a good example of how you can make your own flowers. Over at 365 cards, todays challenge is to make paper flowers.

You don't have to own punches to accomplish this. In this example the flower was created by cutting the same image out several times from DP.

Think outside the box, papercrafting doesn't have to mean you always need the latest greatest gadgets. You just need some paper and inspiration!

Playing with layout...

2009-03-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I do a sketch and then later I go back to a card and think something needs changed. Do you ever do that? And then you end pulling the entire thing a part. Sometimes when you put it back together you find you still have all the same ellements nothing has changed except... layout. Well this is the case with this card. Just tweeked, not better just different!

If you hop on over to 365 cards, the challenge of the day is to make a Birthday card, with yellow, red and blue!

Have a stampin good day!

Its feeling like Spring!

2009-03-13T13:19:00.001-07:00

I just love Spring! In fact honestly, I love every season at the beginning; but by the end; well I am ready for a change! So here we are with Spring ahead of us, everything is look fresh and new! MMMMMMMMM

I had to play along today with Sketches! by Tamara. This is a fun one, but honestly challenging for me. I found it difficult to fit so many images in a row. I hope you too have a chance to play along!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- WW yellow, red,white

Stamps- Inkadinkadoo- images, PTI Damask- sentiment

Ink- Memento Tux Black

Embellishments- scallop square punch, dollar store flowers, stickles crystal, button, pop dots, COPICS, cuttlebug- swiss dot folder

Lemons...

2009-03-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

I love lemons! I love the smell, I love the tartness, the tanginess and even yes the bit of sweetness of a lemon. My daughter loves lemonade; so while I was making her lemonade; an idea hit me! I love when doing every day things around the house makes me think of STAMPING! LOL
So my idea was this above card. I actually have had this little stamp set for over a year but just was not sure how I was going to use it. So Today it finally all came together.

Do you also have stamps that have never been inked? If you do, hit the rubbaha and get inking!

Remember lemon rind is a natural cleaner, put it in your garbage disposal and instant fresh kitchen!
R

It's all in the Ingreidents:
Paper- PTI sweet blush, lemon tart, stampers select white
Stamps- Memory Box, SU!
Ink- PTI sweet blush, lemon tart, Memento tux black
Embellishments- paper flowers dollar store, PTI lemon tart saddle stitch ribbon, Amuse bling, pop dots, scalloped square punch, sitckles crystal, COPICS c1, BG10, Y11,Y13

Scraps anyone...

2009-03-13T10:25:00.000-07:00

Scraps are not just for the recycling bin anymore. While I am trying to stop myself from keeping 1inch scraps everything else is kept. You never know what you can do with it. In this case I made a mini card. 3"x4". All scraps, even the large flower is 2 that i had cut in half for another project early this month.

So ladies turn your scraps into treasures, reduce, reuse, and RECYCLE!

Go GREEN!

Photos on Cards?

2009-03-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Well I must say this is a first for me. I have never even thought to include a photo on a card that I would be making. Some how that seems like something for professional photographers; not for someone who stamps; RIGHT?

WRONG!

When I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried this challenge at 365 I was amazed and even pleased with the results. Really how could a card with my twins not be prefect! LOL

After all ladies, honestly what are challenges 4? Oh yeah, you and me both forget they are 2 challenge US!

Step out of your comfort zone today and add something new 2 a card!

Love Shack!

2009-03-12T11:37:00.001-07:00

I wish so much I had a bigger house to fit all my kids toys! Today I find myself tripping all over them and thinking how nice it would be to have a playroom and close the DOOR! LOL

When I saw this challenge at 365 Cards, I decided to play along. It was to make a card for a move. And Honestly I wish I could give it to myself! Oh well {{sigh}}!

Make do and be Happy! My new motto!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI white, MME DP, WW olive

Stamps- Amuse- Love shack, JustRite- Brayton

Ink- Fresco Navy Chalk, Memento Tux Black

Embellishments- scallop square punch, ribbon scrap, pop dot, Creative Cafe buttons, hemp twine, Copics B10,BO2,B37,CI,C3,C5,W4,E50,E57,E59,YG17,YG23,YG97

365 cards! 2S4U

2009-03-12T10:25:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine having the time and the inspiration to make a card every day for a year? What would you do with 365 cards? Well I have decided to give it a try. So far I have been going since the beginning of Feb and if I miss a day on the weekend then I make more the following week. I am appreciating taking time for myself. I am meeting new people and even getting some praise along the way! So my question to you is...

If you too enjoy making cards what is stopping you from doing it?

Kids? I have 3, and my twins are 18 months. No I don't have help! I have nap time, and other quiet mo's at night.

Work? Yes I do that too from home.

Broke? Yep me too! But have you looked at all that you currently own? Are you like me where you are becoming a fire hazard?

So no more excuses ladies, stop hopping and get STAMPING!

For today's card I played along with 365 cards, hence the above rant. It was a fun challenge, 5 design papers, 5 embellishments or more! And I did a double play and did the sketch at 2S4U.

See what you can do!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! white, MME DP, PTI Raspberry Fizz DP, WW scrap butterflies

Stamps- Inkadinkadoo

Ink- Color Box Chalk Prussian Blue

Embellishments- dollar store flowers, pop dots, K&Co gems, Offray- ribbon, Cuttlebug swiss dots

Color Throwdown #33

2009-03-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

Okay how long do you think this bird thing is gonna last? I am working today with a stamp that I bought seriously at least 10 years ago. I don't want to date myself but OMG a decade later I never get tired of bird images.

I tried to keep this image pure to its simplicity like nature. So in doing so I left it simple. It is only slightly coloured, and outlined. The real impact is the image instead of BLING, ribbons or background. This is not CAS only because of the number of layers which help to enhance the colour scheme of the image. But it definitely is effective and quick!

I hope you all have a chance to go play CTD#33!http://colorthrowdown.blogspot.com/2009/03/color-throwdown-33.html

Have a great Evening!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! Elegant Eggplant, Tempting Turqoise,WW Olive, PTI white

Stamps- Stampendous- Image, PTI Damask-Sentiment

Inks-Fresco Evergreen, Brilliance Graphite Black

Embellishments- K&Co Bling, Cuttlebug- swiss dot folder,stickles- crystal

COPICS- 0,bg10,bg45,bv08,v17,c1

KW#44

2009-03-11T10:07:00.001-07:00

**EDIT- This first card is actually the 2nd card. I didn't like the tab on the first one so I reworked it. I thought the tiny hint of colour worked better then the patterned tab. What do you think?

What a beautiful day. I just love it when it is sunny out. We have a little snow remaining from our surprise snow storm on Monday. we have been having very strange weather here in the WEST coast this March.

On to why you came here; surely not to talk weather! LOL

What a great challenge! I was working with my wonderful new set from Inkadd, Mindscapes. I was playing withthe different images on this silver shimer vellum. Last night I decided I liked the dragonfly best. However; I didn't quite know how I was going to finish this card. And then I took at Sharon's blog, http://notimetostamp.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/2009/03/10/cas-bluebird-thanks/and saw this ribbon knot. So simple yet just finishes the card with a touch of elegance. Thanks for the inspiration Sharon and Kristina!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! black, Shimmering Silver vellum(?),PTI White, scrap of Kaiser DP

Ink- Brilliance Graphite black

Stamps-Inkainkadoo- mindscapes
Embellishments- Hero arts- gems, Offray wide black satin ribbon, SU! corner rounder

A little Yummy for you...

2009-03-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

Friends... they keep me going. They keep me sane, they make me laugh and they even force me leave the house without my kids! For this I truly THANK THEM! LOL
I have some of the greatest friends a girl could ever ask for. There isn't enough time in the day, for me to make each of them a card every time I think of them. So... I thought I would make one. I will save it for a day when one of my dear friends really needs a pick me up.

For this card I came across this recipe today at Card-a-Licious.

Use a heart, button, ribbon and something pink!

You can play too here!http://cardalicious.blogspot.com/2009/03/cardalicious-17.html

What fun recipes are. They allow you to have more freedom and creativity then challenges, but honestly i love them both!LOL

Make something today, whether it is a cake, a card, a gift or a BABY!(just thought I would add that for those of you trying so hard!)HA

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! night navy, PTI raspberry fizz DP, raspberry fizz

Stamsp- Pink Cat

Ink- Fresco-cahlk Navy

Embellishments- PTI gross grain raspberry fizz ribbon, Kaiser- flower bling, felt flowers, dollar store navy paper flowers, hemp twine, K&Co pink bling, CC button, pop dots, Cuttlebug swiss dots folder

2 sketches and Thankfulness...

2009-03-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

This card is based on Inspirational sketch #7

http://icsketches.blogspot.com/2009/03/icsketches-7.html as well as;

Tamaras Recipe #39

http://icsketches.blogspot.com/2009/03/icsketches-7.html

I am sitting here thinking about how thankful and lucky I am to have 3 healthy children, a wonderful husband, a lovely home, and the love of family and friends. I am feeling this overwhelming need to cry; for the fact that far too often I take all this for granted.

Hug your kids, kiss your husband, and phone afriend and just say HI!

Take a momment and be Thankful for all you have today!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI pure poppy, stampers select white. Kaiser DP

Stamps-PTI Damask-sentiment, Inkadinadoo- Mindscapes

Ink- Memento Tux Black

Embellishments- Copic R27, Creative CAfe buttons, Offray- ribbon, pop dots, SU! corner rounder, SU! word window punch, MS butterfly punch, Stickles crystal, Hero arts- bling

CPS106- and a prayer

2009-03-09T09:26:00.001-07:00

I have Happy Mail!
I got my PTI order this weekend. And I finally got a chance to start playing with the new Damask set, designed by Dawn McVey. Is it not delicious?
Ok now who out there besides me is thinking come on PTI time for Navy to be added to the colour selection? I love navy, and it looks so YUMMY when paired with the FIZZ, don't you agree?
I hope you all have a wonderful Monday, and please say a prayer today for Alicia's very young son Ethan who is bravely battling cancer.
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- PTI fizz, PTI DP fizz, SU! navy
Stamps- PTI Damask
Ink- Fresco chalk Navy, PTI Fizz
Ribbon- PTI gross grain fizz

A little Prayer of hope...

2009-03-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

I read a blog of a lovely stamper Alicia.http://www.happystamp.blogspot.com/
While I don't know her personally; I do know she is a kind and wonderful dedicated mother of 2. And frankly ladies that is all I need to know to offer my prayers for her.
I don't know how to help her or her family through the toughest of times. So I am turning to all you blogging ladies in the stamping world in hopes of a miracle.

I want to ask that all you lovely ladies say a prayer for Alicia her family and especially her son Ethan. Ethan has cancer, and unfortunately it has spread. While the family will never give up hope they are in need of hope and prayers from all of you.

Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers!

And if you have any ideas of how we could help this family please leave me a comment I would love to help them!
R

YAY! I have NEW stamps!

2009-03-06T19:03:00.000-08:00

My husband honestly does not understand the term "Happy Mail!" He does not understand the anticipation that builds up every morning when you are hoping for a stamp order to arrive. I am sure you all have a very good idea of what I am talking about! LOL

But today was the day my New Elzybells arrived! And so quick I must say! Only 1 week all the way from the UK! FAB! So what's a girl to do with new rubbaha?

INK IT UP BABY!!!

Do you see the deliciousness? Can you appreciate my excitement? Do you feel the same way when you get new stamps?

TTFN

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- SU! choco chip, MME Magnolia DP, WW red

Stamps- Elzybells

Ink- Memento Tux Black

Embellishments- SU! corner rounder, K&Co gems, pop dots, Offray ribbon

COPICS: E50,E51,E57,E59,Y23, R20,R27,R32,0

Elzybells Challenge #15

2009-03-06T16:44:00.001-08:00

TGIF!

Well I think I have managed to survive a week long FLU that has sent all 3 of my kids vomitting every day!

What have you survived this week? Do you feel like a survivor? Do you feel like you deserve a vacation?

I sure do... so with that said I am going to go to Seattle to start a week long celebration of my Birthday. My birthday really isn't until next Monday, but I figure after what I have endured this week I need a little RETAIL THERAPY!

What are you up to this weekend? I would love to hear from you!

For those of you who are not Elzybell fans and followers I am going to do my best to convert you. Elizabeth draws the most wonderful characters. I absolutely love colouring them. They are just so much fun, and incredibly versatile. This fortnights challenge can be found here:

http://elzybells.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/03/challenge-15.html

For those of you who don't know a fortnight is 2 weeks, and every 2 weeks there is a challenge at the blog. It is always fun to play along.... and wait... there is more.... you get entered every time you play into monthly draws for FREE stamps! Who doesn't need more of those? LOL

I hope your weekend is FAB!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- WW burnt orange, turquoise, PTI white,MME, plaid, dots

Stamps- Elzybells- image, Pink Cat- sentiment

Ink- Memento Tux Black

Embellishments- Creative cafe-buttons, hemp twine, SU! chalks, Cuttlebug embossing folder swiss dots

COPICS:C1,C3,C5,0,B00,BG99,E50,E51,E32,E35,W4,100,R20,Y11,Y13,Y21,YR04,YR09,YG17,YG23,

YG41,YG97,YG91,YG99

Color Throwdown #32

2009-03-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while something really speaks to me and I need to translate it to paper. This weeks colour challenge at Color Throwdown really did that.

http://colorthrowdown.blogspot.com/2009/03/color-throwdown-32.html

The colours are lovely and soft and made me think of a conche shell. So I went to a lovely old stamp one of my faves. I got to playing with my Copics which is always fun. I thought that it was coming alonng really well; when I was interupted. By what? Just the sound of my twins coughing and crying; so like a good Mother I went to check things out. And not good at all YAK.. I won't go any further withthe details. However, today I sat down to finish the card, and again interupted.... YAK.

So I don't know if this is a sign I need a holiday; but I sure feel like I do!

Just looking at this card makes me think of Hawaii and that will have to be enough to get me through this bought of the stomach flu!

Hope your day is much better than mine!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- PTI lemon tart, white, DP ?(too old to know)

Stamps- StampIt- shell, Stampettes- Mahalo

Ink- SU! barely banana,pretty in pink, coral, Memento tux black

Embellishments- PTI lemon tart saddle stitch ribbon, MM bling, pop dots

COPICS-0,R20,R32,E50,Y11

Bird of Paradise

2009-03-05T11:00:00.001-08:00

Don't you just love flowers and birds? They make me think of Spring. After this long Winter I can hardly wait for Spring to arrive. Unfortunately, the weather man says it is going to be a wee bit longer, as we are getting snow again this week. What happened to living on the WET Coast? I didn't sign up for the SNOW! I love snow don't get me wrong, but by March I am OVER it!

When I saw the challenge today to use a critter over at Caardvardks; I jumped at the chance to play along. Anything to play with happy colours and Spring like critters. I really love this new bird, it is from Inkadinkadoo. It is a clear set, and I have never worked with theirs before. I find that is does not work well with a lot of inks. If anyone has tips for how I can remedy this it would be greatly appreciated!

Hope Spring is on the way to you!
R

It's all in the Ingredients:
Paper- WW burnt orange, MME DP, PTI white
Stamps, Inkadinkadoo- bird, Pink Cat- sentiment
Ink- SU! choco chip, Color Box chalk- prussian blue
Embellishments- K&Co gems, button, Offray Ribbon, pop dots, SU! chalk

KW#44

2009-03-04T08:52:00.001-08:00

This colour combo this week is Simple Lovely! I absoloutely adore this card. This card was inspired by my dear friend Dawn McVeyhttp://www.dawnmcvey.typepad.com/. It is a card that I could definately see her making although, I can't think of specific card to reference back to. She was certainly on my mind when I designed this card. She loves scallops, brown, pink and Martha Stewart butterfly! And I forgot to say BLING!

I was thinking simple, and jaw dropping; cuz I always feel both of those when I stop by her blogo! ~lol

If you have no inspiration today, stop by her blog you are sure to find some!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- WW pale pink, SU! close to cocoa, DP dots(dollar store can U believe it?)

Stamps- SU!

Ink- SU! choco chip

Embellishments- ribbon (recycled), MS butterfly punch, Amuse - bling, SU! corner rounder

Sending you some smiles!

2009-03-03T18:06:00.000-08:00

I have a dear friend who is needing some cheering up. So I thought I would make her a card. I saw this sketch over at Friday Sketches and thought that this would be a great jumping off point.

If you would like to play along too here is the link.http://fridaysketchersblog.blogspot.com/

I am really loving the new stamps that Inkadinkadoo has out. They are lovely and whimsical and with all the bird images they are also right on trend. When stamping the flourish, I stamped it first in Lime ink and then I double stamped the flowers in pink. Unfortunately, it went a mud colour so I then just used my copics over top and I am pleased with the transformation.

If you too have a friend needing a bit of cheer, stop surfing and get stamping!

It's all in the Ingredients:

Paper- WW pink, turquoise, DP dots(notta clue sorry)

Ink- Color box chalk- lime

Embellishments- MS butterfly punch, Amuse and Kaiser Bling, ribbon (recycled)