Next Holiday, First Card

Okay, so I finally cleaned up all my Christmas card-making mess, and put the Holiday stamps away for another year *sniff*, and after assembling the new set SU! gave to us demos for a Christmas gift this year, I decided to make a card for the next Holiday I could think of, not including New Years, since that all starts tomorrow.

SO, Valentines Day popped up! And in keeping with that theme, here's the first card for you all to see:

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2008

Does that pic look small to you? I'm using this new laptop and some new photo editing software, and I just can't get the hang of it yet. I'm sure the pics will improve with time.

ANYWAY, I also dug up the Cuttlebug embosser for this one, too! LOVE that thing! And, after some cutting, coloring, blending and popping, this card became my first Valentine's card of the year. I hope you like it.

Colors: Purely Pomegranite, Pretty in Pink

Stuff: Cuttlebug embosser, pink and white grosgrain, dimensionals, blender pens

Up late, but I'm back.

As you may have guessed, I have not been around online in the last week or so, because of course the Holidays. I have finally come up for air from my post-Christmas activities, and I'm up late right now but planning on sleeping and then getting up to play with some stamps, so if I end up inspired, you'll see some new goodies on this blog tomorrow!!

Wish me luck!

And, thanks to everyone who left the 53 presents under my little tree this season - that was FUN!!! I read every single one of those, and I loved them all as if I had gotten actual gifts - no kidding! And, no mess to clean up afterwards - and no returns either!! WOO HOO!

I hope everyone had a blessed season, and I look forward to spending a fabulous 2008 with you all!

Yours in Creativitiy~
Me

I wish I were sick of Holiday cards, but....

I'm not (yet)! Yep, I'm still making them! I still have to make them, actually - there are constantly cards coming in from people that I had not already sent to first, so I keep making them!!! I sure hope these get out in time to arrive by Christmas!!!

So if you're not already sick of my cards, here's yet another Holiday card for you, fresh off my stamping table:

images (c) Stampin' Up!

The truck is actually popped up, but the photo doesn't show that. Also, you have to really look, but there's trees in the background, too.... they don't show either!!! Wonder why?? Anyway, Soft Sky and Blue Bayou are the colors of choice here, highlighted by Rose Romance, Wild Wasabi, and So Saffron.

Sets: Loads of Love, Lovely as a Tree, It's Snow Time (snowflakes)
Colors: Listed above (read! lol)
Other: blender pens, dimensionals, markers, reinkers, paper piercing template/tools....blah blah blah....

Snowy Friends

If you're still trying to get those Christmas cards done (and I will admit, i have a few left to do), here's another idea that is pretty quick to whip up, and it's fun too!

Now I am posting from my laptop right now and it is using a completely different photo editing software, so I don't know how good or bad this photo is going to look, but here goes:

images (c) Stampin' Up!

It's a 4 1/4" square card. It uses some paper I have had forever and it's long retired, but it fell under the category of "I promised myself I'd use this stuff" so it found its way onto this card. lol The slit punch makes the little scalloped edge on the chocolate layer, and with a bit of faux stitching and piercing in the scallops (can't really see it in the pic), it was all ready to go. Of course dimensionals play in this, too... none of my cards seem complete without them!!

Sets: It's Snow Time, Sparkle wheel
Colors: Ballet Blue, Chocolate Chip
Other: Paper piercing tool and mat, bluebird and chocolate grosgrain, swirl clip (non SU! in silver), slit punch

Tag Time

Nope, not tags I made... but a tag I was "tagged" with! lol

This one comes compliments of Gabby, my SBS1 sista! I will probably not tag anyone else because I'm seeing this everywhere, so I'll just share the weird stuff about me and we can all get on with our Christmas shopping already. lol

7 Weird/Random Facts About Me:

1. I love every kind of music, from classical to rap (yep, I said it), from showtunes to Mariachi, from pop to Rock, and everywhere in between.

2. I wanted to learn how to fix cars when I was young, but my dad refused to teach me. I can, however, change my own oil, fuel filter, air filter, battery and tires. Not bad for a chick!

3. I have a super-sensitive sense of smell. I have even had people call me over to their house to identify smells that they can't trace themselves. Yep, i'm like a dog. Woof!

4. I have some psychic ability. I have the ability to know someone inside and out REALLY fast because I can feel it. It's called being an empath. Dont' ask me to contact your dead relatives or give you a reading, though. I don't go there. lol

5. I survived ovarian cancer. 85% of those diagnosed don't.

6. My dream since I was 3 (yes, I actually remember the moment I decided this) has been to be a famous singer and actress.

7. I love to watch boxing. It's barbaric, yes, but for some reason it's still a great sport to me.

WOW, is that 7 already?? You know, the sad part is there are about a million more weird/random things about me, but I'd probably scare you all off if I shared them! lol This was actually a fun exercise, so if you're reading this and you haven't been tagged yet, please use this and play along - post your random things on your blog! Then post here to tell me so I can read up on YOU!

Be Merry

Yep, ANOTHER Christmas card to share! This one will sorta count for tomorrow's post, because I will probably not be able to get on in the morning to post for you, so those of you Friday night browsers, you're getting the goods early. lol

So anyway, you may need to click on the pic for the closeup because on my new pc screen it's really hard to tell all the details on this thing (translation: "glitter"), but maybe it's just my screen and not yours... lemme know. here's the card:

images (c) Stampin' Up!

The tree was stamped in craft ink and then embossed with Iridescent Ice embossing powder. The trees in the background were just stamped in regular Soft Sky ink and then highlighted with 2-way glue and glitter.

Sets: Baroque Motifs, Warm Words, Lovely As A Tree
Colors: Soft Sky, Close to Cocoa, white (Almost Artichoke craft ink on tree)
Other: Iridescent Ice embossing powder, Dazzling Diamonds glitter, 2-way glue pen, caramel grosgrain, glue dots, dimensionals, soft sky DP

Simple Silver

First, does anyone know how hard it is to scan or photograph something with a white edge on a white background?? Aaargh!! lol Okay, done whining now. lol

This one is a simple to make but with an elegance that only black and silver or (black & gold) can project. If you ever emboss metallics and you haven't already heard, you get the best results with metallic ink and metallic embossing powder. I played with some other ways just to see the difference, and there IS a difference! Prior to that, I just did what I was told and enjoyed it. ; )

Oh, tip # 2: when embossing on dark cardstocks (or any, for that matter), always use that embossing buddy, or you'll end up with speckles of stuff you didn't want when it's said and done. Don't take away from your efforts by making it sloppy - get yourself a buddy, and use it!

So anyway here's the card:


Can you see the any of the silver shimmer? The snowflakes and the "joy" stamp are embossed in silver. It's better looking in person. Too bad I mailed all these away. ; )

Set: Snowflake wheel (regular size), and the other set name escapes me... I need to get a laptop to have near my space when I'm posting these so I have it all handy!
Colors: Black, White & Silver
Other: silver embossing powder, embossing buddy, white organdy ribbon, dimensionals

Simple and Festive

It's true, I'm not done with these holiday cards yet.... and I'll be making more today, too, so be prepared! lol

images (c) Stampin' Up!

Garden green and Ruby Red compliment this card. The tree gets a bit of dimension with the Rock 'n' Roll technique - ink up the stamp first in green, then rock the stamp to the side, and roll the stamp over the brown pad so that just the edges get the brown ink. Simple as that! Add some crinkled birch paper, and this card doesn't need too many more layers to have dimension. Cool, eh?

Set: Lovely as a Tree
Colors: Garden Green, Ruby Red
Other: Hodgepodge hardware in Aged Copper, and burgundy grosgrain.

How fun is this?! Leave a present.

This Christmas you can give me presents galore, and it won't cost you a penny! This is soooo cool! Just leave me what you think I deserve (even coal!) and leave it under my adorable tree you see above. It's fun! AND, if you make a tree of your own, post a comment and let me know so I can leave you a gift too!!

Have fun, and don't be a scrooge! Gimme a gift! ; )

Happy Holidays~

Another challenge I took on....

Yep, my friend Kyla posted a card on her blog that she created after a sketch challenge she saw, and then she passed the challenge on to me! SO, not being one to back down from a challenge, particularly one that I thought looked like fun, I came up with this card:

images (c) Stampin' Up!

Yep, the crab strikes again! I just love this little guy! This is actually a 4 1/4" square card, and with a little punching and Colluzzleing (just made that word up - like it?!), I came up with this card which I thought was kinda cute for another Christmas wish. What do you think??

Sets: Crab & Company, All Wrapped Up Accessories
Colors: Wild Wasabi, Purely Pomegranite
Other: Celery organdy ribbon, burgundy grosgrain, dimensionals

Drumroll, Please.....

Yes, the day for the Blog Candy winner announcement is here! I went to www.random.org/lists to make the choice truly random, and here's the winning post:

Mandiannie said...
Great candy. On top of my wish list is a digital SLR camera...that's on my WISH list on my Christmas list (the one that has realistic wants) I have a circle punch.
December 6, 2007 4:32 PM

CONGRATS Mandiannie! Please email me ASAP with your address and I'll send my Happy Birthday present to YOU!

Thanks for playing everyone - I hope you'll continue to visit the blog, even if there's no blog candy up for grabs!

Now, when will the next contest be???? Hmm..... gotta ponder that one......

Later gaters~

In response to a Challenge

Gabriela, who is a fellow SBS sista and a great stamper, issued a challenge of her own to enter to win blog candy she's offering (click HERE to go to her blog for details). Well, I had more Christmas cards to make, so this challenge looked like a great place to start. Well, Gaby, if you're reading this, here's my entry:

images (c) Stampin' Up!

How FUN is that set?! I knew I'd just use it and use it and use it - not just for Summer, but for Holiday Time, too!!! WOO HOO!!!!

I only made one of these, so I have to save the picture for posterity. lol

Set: Crab & Company, snowflakes wheel
Colors: Bashful Blue, Chocolate Chip, Confetti White
Other: Dazzling Diamonds, bashful blue brads, 1/4"circle punch, dimensionals, 2way glue pen, blender pens

Yep, it's retired, I know... Holiday Wishes again!

Yep, I just can't stop making Holiday cards.... and I'm using more stuff that's retired and/or otherwise sitting in my space waiting to be used. Besides, I have more cards left to make after realizing my list is longer than I had originally planned... so here's the next version I made a handful of:

images (c) Stampin' Up!

It's a PearlEx dream.... PE in both Spring Green and Russet. Versamark and some AquaNet hairspray, and I was all set! Yep, add some retired designer paper and some silver eyelets, and this is what I came up with. Now, do I want to try and remember what the name of the deisgner paper is? Hmm.... that's a tough one.

Sets: Ageless Adornment, Fine Foliage jumbo wheel
Colors: Handsome Hunter, Burgundy
Other: 1/4" circle punch, silver eyelets, PE in Spring Green and Russet, Aquanet hairspray to seal, dimensionals (of course!)

There will probably be one last holiday card coming before I switch themes to share, but hopefully you're still enjoying these.

Hugz~

Windy Winter Holiday Card

Just messed around with the little amount of time I had to stamp yesterday, and here's another quick Christmas Card I came up with, using the supplies I have, current, retired, and otherwise.

Don't have a Cuttlebug snowflake template yet (well, I ordered mine yesterday thanks to the 50% sale on Creativexpress, but I digress)? Just use what you have and add a twist to it like this: I used my old Snowflakes wheel from SU!, and ran it through the Cuttlebug Swirl embossing template. Now it looks like the snow is blowing in the wind!

This picture turned out really dark, but hopefully the detail and sparkles (as always) show up for you... maybe the larger view will help.... just click it for the larger and more detailed view. Anyway, here's the card:

images (c) Stampin' Up!

So, what did I use to make this?

Sets: Tree for All Seasons, Small Script, Snowflake wheel
Colors: Handsome Hunter, Cranberry Crisp (last year's InColor), Soft Sky
Other: Silver ink, silver metallic pen, going gray ink cartridge, paper piercing tools (from the SU! kit), Swirl embossing template from CB, 2-way glue pen, dazzling diamonds glitter, various punches and sizzix circles, slit punch, silver eyelet, hunter grosgrain (SU!)

UPDATE: The weird thing - I never use Hunter cardstock so I had no idea this was going to happen, but the ink I used to make the snowflakes later soaked into the hunter cardstock and now you can hardly see the snowflakes at all.... wonder how that happened????

Blog Candy is HERE!

Okay, friends - as promised, I am here to celebrate my 10,000 hits with some goodies for you just in time for the Holidays! Here's what I'm offering:

What's included here: A stamp-yourself puzzle , 3 unmounted holiday stamps by SU!, some non-SU! craft sponges, a package of birthday embellishments, a pastel bundle of fibers, and an unopened package of beads (from BigLots).

Want to win? Here's what you need to do:

Post here and tell me what is on the top of your Christmas Wish List, and tell me whether or not you think you'll get it this year.

One winner will be named on Tuesday, December 11th - my BIRTHDAY! lol

Okay, get posting - I can't wait to hear what you wish for this year!

Hugz and Good Luck~

The Thing About Music

Okay, so I love my music... but I recently read a thread on SCS where there was a lot of ranting about how people hate going to blogs with music on them - how some people will not read blogs again if there's music on it. Wow, this was a shock to me, and I was distressed!

HOWEVER, I found the solution! I re-created the html code on my music player so that it will not play automatically when you visit my blog. Instead, if you want to hear it, just go where the player is (near the bottom, if you didn't know already) and click the play button (usually you have to click twice).

I hope this will encourage the non-music people to continue to visit, and still satisfy the yes-music people so that you can listen if the spirit moves you.

Sound good??

Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I Love Ya, Tomorrow!

You're only a day awaaaaayyyyy.......

Yep, I'm singing the tune because tomorrow is a stamping day, which means Christmas cards will get made, new ones created, new pics to post and BLOG CANDY to offer!

Keep your eyes peeled, it's coming!

Sing with me now - "tomorrow, tomorrow, I love ya, tomorrow... you're only a daaaayyyy, aaaawaaaaaaayyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!"

Okay, I feel better now. lol

Another Holiday Wish

Here's the other card that's dry now, and I kinda like it - and will probably make a handful of these to mail out as well:

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Yep, I was pretty happy with the results, and this stamp set is one that I sorta got "stuck" purchasing due to a miscommunication with a customer, but I finally put it together (without labels) and actually am enjoying it now. Now it's hard to tell, but the bird, star and heart all have Crystal Effects on them, so they're all shiny, which adds an extra touch to this card. I hope you can see it.

Sets: Baroque Motifs, Wishing You

Colors: Purely Pomegranite, Wild Wasabi, Soft Sky

Other: Burgundy grosgrain, 7/8" celery organdy ribbon, Crystal Effects

Gift Certificates!

I recently had some people purchase SU! gift certificates for some lucky folks this year, and I always mix it up when I make them. No two years, no two purchases are alike. So, I have fun with it, and the Create-a-Coupon stamp set from SU! is perfect for this!! So here's what this one looks like:

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Just a few little details to put in left - like the recipient's name, who it's from, and a personalized note inside from the sender! How fun are these to make?? Even better, how much fun it will be for the person who gets to SHOP!

Oddly enough, this picture made the top layer look almost vanilla, but it isn't. It's actually white, but I didn't want to go through another picture editing session to get it just right, so you'll have to get the idea. ; )

Sets: Create A Coupon, Wishing You, It's Snow Time (the star), Brushstroke Alphabet & Numbers

Colors: Wild Wasabi, Purely Pomegranite, Whisper White

Other: Spiral Punch, 1 1/2" circle punch (CM), 1 3/8" circle punch (SU!), dimensionals

I made another fun Holiday card today, too, and it's still drying, so it will probably be a post for tomorrow, but you can bet it's gonna be put up here soon!

Sorry, no blog candy yet. My day is running short and I ran out of time to collect the items, but it will be soon, I promise!!!

Laters~

Rekindled Love

Okay, okay, so I'm a day late... my daughter ended up home sick yesterday so I didn't get on the PC all day *sniff*...anyway here's the craft I've rekindled that I wanted to share... remember it's not stamping related, but hopefully you'll like it anyway:

It's CROCHET. Yep, it's true. I admit it. I love to crochet. And, since my sister had a baby and my sister in law is getting ready to have one, it was time to get out the old hooks and get working.

This is the first baby blanket I've made, and I designed the pattern myself... the way it's laying on the floor looks kinda crooked, but it's not really in person.

As you can probably guess, it's a boy.

Here's a blanket that I started almost 2 years ago and never finished, until last week:

This was supposed to be a blanket for me, but my mom fell in love with it (again, nicer in person), so she's going to be getting it for Christmas instead.

You know, it's surprisingly warm! I started a new blanket for myself this time, and hopefully it will be done before the winter is over. lol

So that's it for the re-kindled love. Now I'm off to my basement to stamp so I have some new things to share with you all later today! Oh, and I have to assemble some blog candy, too. ; )

Hugs~

Holy Cow, I hit 10,000!!

Hi friends!! First of all, thank you to EVERYONE who posted comments with well-wishes for me last week when I was sick. I was able to get better enough in time for Thanksgiving, and then I hosted my family on Saturday.... which was nice. Then it was busy,busy,busy the last few days with work and such, and I just checked my counter to see that I hit 10,000 a few hundred clicks ago! WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

SO, as promised I will be offering some blog candy to celebrate, so keep your eyes peeled and check here tomorrow for the post with the details......and hopefully some cute samples to share, too!

I'll also have a non-stamping project I want to share with you, too... I picked up one of my old craft projects and have re-kindled my love... want to know what it is? Sorry, gotta wait until later today or tomorrow morning! Isn't the suspense just wonderful!? lol

Okay everyone, I'm going to try to get to visit some of you later on so that you know I love you all, too... but thanks for visiting me in the meantime - you have NO IDEA how happy you've made me!!

ROCK ON~
Gina

Just poppin' in.

Hi friends... I haven't posted in a couple of days because I got suddenly ill. I'm still sick, but I had to get online and pay a couple of bills, so I wanted to let you know that I'm not slacking on the posts, but I just don't feel well enough to stamp.

As soon as I'm feeling a bit better, I'll be sure to have more goodies to share.

Thanks for your patience!

Hugz~

Mystery Stamper #4

This is such a cute card I was happily surprised to get a few months ago, and here's what I got to enjoy, so now you can too:

Want to know who made this beauty?? Click here and see her blog to find out!

Okay, I have been tagged so many times, it's time to post.

I got tagged....

1. If you could have 100.00 worth of scrapbook paper or assorted embellishments, which would you choose? I'd have to go with embellishments.

2. If you had to choose between using only stamps or ribbons, which would you choose?
Stamps! What's ribbon without some good images?!

3. If you knew how to do both awesome cards and layouts but could only do one for a whole year…which would you do? Awesome cards - I probably SHOULD do layouts because I'm so far behind, but I like cards cuz they're more instant-gratification for me.

4. Would you rather own a scrap booking store or have your own scrapping room at home...
OOH, I'd go with the store. I'd love to have that much going on to be able to share large-scale.

5. What is your CURRENT card making or scrapping style? Fun, clean, me.

Here are the rules…………..Please answer the questions on your blog and tag 5 more people to answer the same questions……….make sure you list on your blog who you are tagging….

I'm tagging those SBS Sisters:

Meredith :: http://www.stampin4mysanity.blogspot.com/
Vanessa :: http://momwhoscraps.blogspot.com/
Kelly :: http://diariesofastamper.blogspot.com/
Maria :: http://riacreations.blogspot.com/
Meg :: http://peacockpaperie.blogspot.com/

If you've already been tagged, please forgive me. I was tagged I think 4 times, so don't sweat it! : )

Many Thanks

I have a lot to be thankful for, but in this case, I had one particular thing in mind. My parents did something VERY nice for me and my family that really helped me out in a tight spot, so I had to try and make something special to send to them to thank them. I hope I nailed it.

The photography is kinda dark, but in real life this is bright and fresh looking....trust me!

And between you and me, this is as close to throwing "everything but the kitchen sink" into my cards as I get... I thnk. ; )

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

This incorporated a bit of a UFO, too! I went to grab a piece of cardstock in Rose Red, and it had the scallop line punched already (from an old swap long ago), so I decided it would add a great touch to this card, too. Whadya think?

Sets: Polka Dots & Paisley, Cheery Chat, Polka Dots & Petals jumbo wheel
Colors: Pretty in Pink, Rose Red, Tempting Turqoise, Certainly Celery
Other: On Board accents, Pink Rhinestone brads, stitched ribbon, embossing powder in pink and green (Pastel collection, SU!), SU! designer paper Petals & Paisleys (?), dimensionals, slit punch

Mystery Stamper #3

I wonder who made this little beauty?!

Is this not just the freshest, funnest (yes, I know it's not a word) card?? Not to mention I LOVE aloha-flowers! So, if you want to see who did this one, check out her blog here.

I love my Mystery Stampers!!

Enjoy!!

Before and After - Round 2

I kinda liked showing the old UFO and the resulting card - so I decided to do it again! I hope you like seeing both, too... it shows how you can take the one item for inspiration and create something completely different from it! I guess you could say I'm inadvertently inspiring myself.... weird eh?

Anywho, I found yet ANOTHER UFO, pre-cut make & takes from a couple of years ago... and this original piece is one I basically CASED off my friend Sherri - Sher, if you're reading this, do you remember this card?! Anyway, I also took the opportunity to use pre-cut cardstock to create some more Christmas cards, since usually making my cards gets really boring cuz I rarely make more than one style each year... and so by mixing it up and creating new stuff, I'm having a lot of - can you believe it - FUN!

Here's the original UFO I found:

It uses Night Of Navy and White. Yep, and the wide organdy ribbon we miss so much!

Anyone remember the name of this set? I know I still have it somewhere, but I can't remember where it is or the name of it off-hand....

Next, here's the resulting Christmas Card I came up with:

I didn't have pre-cut White background folds, so I did the Bashful Blue thing and added some more oomph to emphasize the wintery theme.

Some notched corners with my trusty slit punch, some Bashful Blue eyelet washers and white eyelets I haven't used in FOREVER, a little Liquid Applique (which, confidentially, I wasn't sure if it would be dried out, which it wasn't, thank goodness!), some wheeled snow and I was all set!

I was pretty happy with the result, how about you!?

____________________________

Sets: Snowflake jumbo wheel, It's Snow Time

Colors: Night of Navy, Bashful Blue

Other: Slit punch, 1/4" punch, 1/8" punch, navy organdy, dimensionals, Liquid Applique

Hope you enjoyed this one and are getting your UFOs done these days, too! It's really steamrolling my enthusiasm for stamping again!

You guessed it.....

...it's another UFO! I am really on a roll here! I found a pack of pre-cut cardstock from a Make & Take project from a Christmas Card class I held long ago (let's put it this way, this color scheme includes BLISS Blue and Mint Melody!!!), and decided to give it a go UFO style!

First, here's what the original sample looked like from the project from a couple of years ago:

The darkness of the pic sorta masks the fun feel of the card, but as you can see it's an old set, and it uses my long lost CRIMPER!! When was the last time I used that thing? FOREVER ago!!

Now here's the new adaptation with the new look:

I took the pre-cut opportunity to make 5 fun Christmas cards, just ready to send to friends and family! How fun is that?!

I still used the crimper because it really adds dimension to the card, and besides, the crimper was in dire need of being used. It's hard to see the sparkle of the snow on the snowy scene, but it's there...oh yes, it's there.

And, in order to get it just right, I had to do what is a long-lost technique for me, the long lost MASKING technique.

Ahhh, the memories are coming alive today!

____________________________

Set (card 1): Espress Yourself

Set (card 2): It's Snow Time

Colors: Brilliant Blue, Bliss Blue (Bashful is a perfect replacement) (Mint Melody is in Card 1)

Other: Crimper, dimensionals, slit punch, silver brad, silver cord, glue dots, 2-way glue pen, dazzling diamonds glitter

Hope you like this newest edition of the UFO sightings!!

Mystery Stamper #2

I'll bet you didn't think I was going to feature another Mystery Stamper, did you? WELL, smarties, I fooled you! I went and dug up a card from my archives (and let's face it, I have a TON of cards in the archives just itching to be seen), so let's see if you can remember who stamped this card:

As a side note, I sure wish I had this set.... it's so stinkin' cute! This card really sells it to me. Too bad it's retired!

Okay, back to business... wanna know who stamped it? Check out this blog - if you don't already do that daily!

I wonder who will be next on the attack of the old card?! ; )

Sort of a Repeat Appearance

Yep, I tried to mix it up with the UFO for the Warhol technique, but I had a bunch of them and I couldn't bring myself to make just the same thing for each one, so here's another twist on the card from the other day that I did.....

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Same colors, different stamp set and theme. The weird thing is, with the photography being what it is, you can't tell that those little flags with the words on them are popped up! Oh well... another day, another camera woe. lol

Now THIS one I plan on sending to a couple of people, so if you're reading this and you get one, I hope you'll still think it's cute even if it's not "surprising" anymore. lol

Hugz~

Yet Another Sighting!

Guess what? It's another UFO sighting! Can you guess where it is? Yep, on this card! lol Wanna know what part is the former UFO? Wanna? Huh, huh??

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

It's the glittery flowers!! I found a half-sheet of black cardstock with a whole bunch of iridescent ice embossed flowers on it! Whoa, what a find... so I cut them out and whipped up a bouquet with some bold color and a canvas background, and voila! A card all about friendship and something that I hope could brighten someone's day!

Here's the deets:

Sets: Curvy Verses, Canvas Background, Petal Prints (I think?!)
Colors: Basic Black, Tempting Turquoise
Other: Iridescent Ice embossing powder, Versamark, 1/2" punch, Rhinestone brad (from the "fire" collection), dimensionals, spiral punch

I hope you like it!

Forgive me for going off-topic, but...

...this is something I just felt compelled to post about. Have you seen ads for the upcoming movie, "The Golden Compass"? It's being heavily advertised as a blockbuster kids movie, just in time for the Holidays, and it's actually an anti-God message aimed at young minds. Please read the following information on Snopes (hoax-proofing site) for more information and decide for yourself if you'd let your kids watch this - I know I absolutely won't, and I'm not easily swayed.

http://www.snopes.com/politics/religion/compass.asp

I normally wouldn't use a forum such as this to make a morality statement, but this was one area I just couldn't let go. If you're an avid atheist, then you can ignore this post, but if not - you may want to check out the link above just in case.

UPDATE: A friend of mine has a little more exposure to this now that her sister just read one of the books - see what my friend wrote on this subject as well: http://jennyzanelli.blogspot.com/

We Have a Winner...

Well, happy Monday, everyone! I have picked a name at random from the entries for the blog candy, and the winning post is....

rockfestqueen said...
Whoo Hoo Gina...glad to have you back bloggin'!!Big hugs to you girlie!!

It happens that I know who this is, so CONGRATS, KAYE!

For those of you who didn't win, thanks for entering, and if you're interested, check out Kaye's blog, too - she's a great stamper!

Okay, friends, that's it for now... when I hit 10K hits, there will be more goodies, so keep visiting!

Later Gaters~

Playing with Leftovers

Yep, in my quest to clean up my space, there was one thing I just couldn't bring myself to throw away: those pieces of unfinished cards, technique samples, or cut pieces for make & takes from old parties done long ago. Yep, I couldn't part with them, so I committed myself to using some of those pieces to create new cards that I can use, post and have fun with in a new way.

Those are the cards I'll be featuring in the next few days. Some will be using retired stamp sets, but mixed with new stuff, maybe you'll enjoy the results. I know I had fun.

Here's the first one for you to check out - the fairy piece was already done, glitter, brads, cord, everything... but that was all I had. It was almost like an artist trading card, only not. So, I used it to create a card for my sister's birthday, which is tomorrow. Guess it won't be arriving in her mailbox on time, will it?! UGH!!

Anyway, here's the card:

I played with my Cuttlebug for some embossed Happy Birthday messages, then did some paper piercing on the strip, added glitter (and how can I resist, considering the fairy theme?!) and some fun backgrounds using stamps I've long forgotten about, and voila! A card that I think is kinda fun.

Sets: Fairy Nice, Little Pieces, Teeny Tinies, Happy Birthday template (Cuttlebug)

Colors: Lavender Lace, Certainly Celery

Other: silver brads, silver cord, 2-way glue pen, Dazzling Diamonds

Hope you (and my sister) like it!

____________________________________________

UPDATE: OMG - I just found the original card I made using this piece, and it's from 2005! LOL... it's in my gallery on SCS - click HERE to see the original card this came from! lol

BLOG CANDY!!

Since I was such a bad blogger for most of the summer, I decided to make it up to you all and win back some traffic in the process.... as my promise that I will do better!!

Here's some goodies I have available for you all today:



It's Die cut mania - with 2 packs of eyelet washers in brights and earthtones; 2 packs of full-sized layered tags in earthtones and regals; 3 packs of funky flowers and outlines in brights, primary brights and earthtones; 2 packs of small tags in brights and regals, with whites included; and 3 packs of some funky shapes in subtles, black/white, and earthtones.... THEN I have an entire, unopened spool of lavender twill tape ribbon, and a bundle of several yards of a multicolored-green and earthtone-woven fiber (approx 7/8" wide). Lastly, an entire package of specialty USA-themed brad-backed buttons in a brasstone color.



Now, who is gonna get this candy? Comment here showin' some love - I am shamelessly plugging for more traffic after my lull in activity. When I get to 10,000 hits, I'm going to offer some more (and even better) stuff as a reward! So, get commenting and keep em comin'.... we're all in this together! No ANONYMOUS comments will win, so please let me know who you are so I can contact you if you're the winner!


The winner will be announced on Monday, good luck!!


Hugz~

My first "mystery" stamper is....

First take a look at this card. I received this card more than a year ago, and I think it's pretty cute! To see how good this mystery stamper's work is (cuz she's one of my friends and one of my most favorite stampers), check out her BLOG to see who she is!

Coming this week...

In my cleaning adventure, I have run across some cards done by my stamping friends in the past.... and I thought it would be fun to feature their old work just to see where they used to be and where they are now! So, I will show you the old work, then link you to their blogs so you can see what they are working on nowadays. Sound fun?? Wait for the first installment tomorrow.

Also coming this week, I will be offering some blog goodies! I have been a sporatic poster all summer, and it's time to get back to the swing, so blog candy sounds like a good jump start to me!

Lastly, I will be going through my retired sets and offering them up for sale, hopefully this week. So, if you love your well-cared-for retired stuff, you may find something you like in my list - coming soon!

Have a great Monday, and I'll be catching ya later!

For your listening pleasure - or not....

I have added some music to my blog for your listening pleasure - or not, depending on what you like! I have completely random music interests - I listen to just about everything, but I wanted to start off with some of the songs I could think of off hand. If you don't like listening, the playlist is at the bottom and you can just press the stop button to stop the tunes if you want. If not, enjoy - you never know what I'll be playing next!

Huggaz~

Progress #1

Okay, I worked a bit today, and here's the first progress picture I have... remember of course that there is WAY more to do, and this is only about 1/5 of my stamping space, but here's what I've done so far:

So you can see my table, that's a start! The entire right side of the table is still a work in progress, but at least the left side is more organized! So how did I do?

Challenge 146

So since I haven't stamped in a while, and since I was prompted by Kyla (thanks girl!!) to give a SCS challenge a go, here's what I did:

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Set: It's Snow Time

Colors: Blue Bayou, Soft Sky

Other: silver brads, 1/4" punch, blender pen, markers

I looked at this card and decided this is NOT going to be my mass-production model because it would kill me, but I hope you like it anyway!

Laters~

My life is a MESS...lol

Let's face it - my life, or rather my space is a DISASTER, and that's probably why I'm not stamping lately. After a long and much needed talk with my friend Kyla Maestas who also has a mess on her hands, we've decided to do something about it. Anyone who wants to join in the challenge can post a comment here with a link to their blog with your "before" shots of your space. No mess is too much for this challenge. Just be brave and share - we've ALL been there. Here is my BEFORE picture... embarrassing but true (and you gotta click this pic to see it in bigger and more detailed glory):

Remember, of course, that creativity is a messy process! LOL

I can't wait until I have an after shot for you! And, since this is only maybe 1/5 of my total stamping space, I may have to do interim shots for you as I progress, because this is a HUGE project, believe me. And, when I'm done, my husband will be so proud! ; )

This could also mean some serious blog candy and retired stamp sets for sale, too... I gotta get organized if it kills me! So, keep your eyes open and tuned in, you never know what will be coming next!

Get ready, cuz Xmas is coming!!

Hey folks! Despite the fact that I LOVE fall and LOVE Halloween projects, I had to take note of the fact that Xmas is coming soon, and projects need to start too... so here's a little tidbit of an item for starters - a gift card holder using an envelope! The pic for the inside was kinda "ucky" looking, so I'll see about making another one to show you later, but also a tutorial could follow.

Meanwhile, I hope you like this one!

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2006

Details to follow.

Later gaters~

Special THANK YOU

Hi everyone - my friend, the one who lost her husband a couple of weeks ago, sent me a message thanking me and YOU (she didn't have the names in front of her) for sending her the cards and mass intentions. She was very moved by the kindness of my friends and it really meant a lot to her.

SO, I wanted to thank you all personally, whoever you are that sent and are sending cards to her. It really is appreciated and it shows what a great group of people you are.
THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.

Hugs,Gina

Simple Sympathy

What is it about sympathy cards that makes it hard to come up with something that is thoughtful but not too overdone? Is it because grief is complicated enough without adding too much to it?

Well, recently a friend of mine lost her husband and I wanted to get something out to her ASAP, so I came up with this. It's a little softer looking in person because the "shadow" of the flowers is a soft blue and the gray brings down the harshness of the black.... but still conveys the sympathy theme.

ALSO, this is where YOU come in - I'd love to have people send cards to her from all over to help ease her grief because her world is completely upside down right now. She and her husband just purchased a bowling alley last year and have put all they have into it, and her husband was the one who ran it full time. She has no children, so her husband was her entire world for more than 25 years. My heart just goes out to her.... So if anyone is interested in assisting by sending a card her way, please email me and I'll send you her address. Thanks so much.

Here's the card I made:

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Set: Heartfelt Sympathy
Colors: Basic Black, Going Gray, Bashful Blue
Other: white grosgrain

Attention Brown-Haired, blonde wannabes!!

Yep, that was me - I tried it again, against my better judgement. I wanted to believe the box that said it could make even black hair blonde. Well, thank goodness I have a sense of humor, and a sense of responsibility to share the results with you so that you don't make the same mistake! lol


Okay, so I'm blessed with strong hair that can withstand processing over and over in one day, or I'd be a pumpkin head and miserable. SO, here's the result of my "blonding" process - and please ignore that I have no makeup on.... the hair is bad enough. And it was a bit brighter in person, so laugh if you must:

So then I decided to go to plan B instead, which was a dark brown. This was the result, which I think is WAY better:

SO, the lesson learned: if I ever decide to go blonde once and for all, I am going to a professional with some SERIOUSLY POWERFUL CHEMICALS to get the orange out of my hair!

That's my public service announcement for today. I hope you got a good laugh out of it - I know I did!

Later gaters~

Stinkin' Halloween

I love Halloween, and I love making Halloween cards, even if I don't really send many of them, if any! I just had to play with this theme a bit and try to come up with a way to surprise you. I hope I did it this time.

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Sets: Stinkin' Cute, Everyday Flexible Phrases, Petals & Paisley (for "happy"), and All Wrapped Up Accessories
Colors: Only Orange, Summer Sun, Black

Fun fun fun, and even his eyes are orange and black! Hope you like it.

Masculine Birthday

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Stamp Sets: Carte Postale, It's Your Birthday
Colors: Chocolate Chip, Blue Bayou, River Rock
Other: gold eyelets, Aztec Gold PearlEx, Versamark

Another Crabby Birthday

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

I actually had a birthday to make this for, so despite the fact that I've featured this stamp set several times now, I deided to share another one I came up with here... this one is for my nephew.

Set: Crab & Company

Colors: Blue Bayou, Soft Sky, River Rock, (Purely pomegranite Groovy Guava ink only)

Other: Swirl emb folder (Cuttlebug), blender pen

Happy Monday!

Gettin' back slowly

Hi again - it's been a busy summer, hasn't it? Time flew by and I haven't had any stamping time in a while. SO, today since I have two birthdays to cover in the next day or two, it was as good a time as any to get back into the swing of things.

I found out two things - #1, I'm still not in full swing yet, and #2, I'm a little RUSTY! So, bear with me as things get back to how they were.

My daughter started school this week, so that will allow me to get back into stamping a bit, I believe. We'll see!

Here's one card I came up with today:

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Stamp Sets: Artfully Asian, It's Your Birthday
Colors: Chocolate Chip, Purely Pomegranite, confetti cream
Other: flower punch trio, rhinestone brad (fire collection)

I hope you like it....I'll post the other one tomorrow!

Stinkin Cute really Stinks!

Okay, so it's not "STINKY" as in bad, but "SMELLY" as in fruity goodness!! Yep, I tried that smell-it technique after promising myself for the last 4 years I would... and how fun it was!

Here's the resulting card - and though the negative image is a bit sloppy, I am chalking it up to using Kool-Aid powder which gets everywhere and telling everyone that if the skunk can't stink, it's gotta be a little messy! lol


images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Set: Stinkin' Cute
Colors: Purely Pomegranite, Blue Bayou, Soft Sky
Other: heat&Stick powder, real Red craft pad, Fruit Punch flavored Kool Aid, red staple, dimensionals, glue dots

I hope you like it, and I'm sorry I was gone for so long, but I'm back now!! Woo hoo!

SO SORRY ladies!!

Hi everyone - I promise I'm not dead - I have had an extremely busy week or so, and haven't had time to stamp or even get on the computer! That is SUPER rare for me, so don't worry, it won't be a habit. However, I am not going to be online for another several days... it's nothing serious, just planning a few days off that will keep me away from the pc, and I promised my family my time, so I gotta keep my word.

As for all of you, I would love to know how you all are, so if you want to post a comment letting me know you're still visiting despite my absence, or offering suggestions on something I can do for my come-back project, or tell me about what's crazy in your life, I'll feel a whole lot better - plus I'll have something to come home to!

Have a great week, I'll catch you either this weekend or next week for sure!

Until then - CIAO!

Fun Farm Tiles

Yep, I have always loved this set, and though it's retired, this is a project always worth making cuz the set is still cute!

I made mine using the same method I always use - stamp images in StazOn ink, color in with Stampin' Pastels (chalks), rub in with finger (I still plan on trying blender pens someday), then spraying ever-so-lightly with acrylic sealer. Four felt self-adhesive dots on each corner and the coaster is ready to go!

I have a TON of stuff to do today, so if I can squeak in some stamping, it will be a miracle, but we'll see....

later gaters~

I knew it....

I took the test, and they told me:

You Belong in London

A little old fashioned, and a little modern. A little traditional, and a little bit punk rock. A unique soul like you needs a city that offers everything. No wonder you and London will get along so well.

What City Do You Belong In?

Squash Book

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

Okay, so here's the deal - this is the squash book that I was having so much trouble with, but I think I'm okay with how it looks now..... I played around with glue and stuff but the result is a completed book that isn't falling apart - how's that for progress? lol

Thanks to the lovely flash on my camera, you can see how metallic the flower on the front looks - it's embossed with gold on a chipboard flower from SU!, and it's got one of our rhinestone circle brads in the middle. How fun is that?! The paper is one of our older styles, but it is such a classy one that I had to use it. The burgundy grosgrain is mixed together with a golden fiber I purchased a long time ago, but it really pulled the look together for this project. I hope you like it.

Here's how the inside looks when it's opened up (you can click it for a larger view):

Let me tell ya, I had a great time putting all these pieces together. I felt like I was 4 years old putting a puzzle together. It took some planning to get all the pieces and colors coordinated in a way that was interesting without being too visually confusing. I hope I succeeded, because believe it or not, it could have gotten ugly in there. What do you think?

Sets: Artfully Asian (and some jumbo wheel whose name escapes me right now)

Colors: Bravo Burgundy, So Saffron, Always Artichoke, Confetti White

Other: Blossoms & Basics On Board Accents, Fire rhinestone circle brad, burgundy ribbon, dimensionals, glue dots, Modge Podge, UHU Creativ, Mono adhesive... the list goes on, read myh previous post! LOL

TUTORIAL for construction of one of these babies can be found on SCS here

Until later, gaters~

Where have I been?! lol

Yep, I'm still here... it's been a busy and crazy week, but I'm finally able to post a few things today... I tried out this squash book thing (not exactly like the card I posted earlier, but this is bigger and bolder), and let me tell you what an adventure this turned out to be!

Well, first, it's taken me over 2 weeks to get my hands on these freakin' coasters I needed for this thing. Yep, that's right - two weeks, three visits to Chili's (oh, the torture - lol), two visits to party stores and craft stores, and finally I had them in my hot little hands (thanks Chili's in LITH, IL)! Oh, and if that were the only trouble I had, I'd be A-okay. It was getting this thing put together that challenged me even further!

So I'm using the Modge Podge to put paper to coaster. No prob, right? Well, friends, I discovered about 10 minutes later that the Modge Podge decided to play games with one coaster and proceeded to LIFT the "Chili's" logo off the base of the coaster, and my paper with it! AHH!! So, I tried another later of MP underneath the logo layer - NOPE. I tried glue dots - NOPE. I tried heated ultra-thick embossing powder - NOPE. I tried glue after glue and guess what - nothing was working. THEN, I remembered something!! I had recently written to Maria to get a sample of an adhesive like Mono, but they were out. Instead I received this:

Yep, UHU Creativ. It's a new-ish glue that I promised to review on my blog after receiving a sample. Well, up until now I have had it sitting around and have not had time to try it out. Well, even though this stuff is for ribbon and fabric, the way this soft-fiber cardboard and paper was working out, I thought anything was worth trying.

WELL, it WORKED!!!!!! OHMIGOSH, this stuff completely saved the day! It comes out of the tube quickly (a bit thicker than Elmer's but not as thick as Modge Podge), so you have to be careful, but man oh man, what a life saver!!!!! It didn't take all day to dry, either, which was a great thing for a project like this. I'm serious, I will definitely be keeping this stuff around on my creative table for projects like this and maybe skip the Modge Podge altogether next time. I also am looking forward to trying it out on gluing ribbon and other hard-to-glue soft items soon, because if it saved my project this time, I can only imagine what I'm in store for next time!!

Thanks to Maria soooo very much for sending this sample to me. I am sorry that it took so long to try it, but I'm so glad I did!!!!

The project is coming in my next post. Keep your eyes open!

From the Heart by Kaye

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2008

Okay, so I run this online group and I hosted a swap with my color challenge - Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery, Always Artichoke, and Sahara Sand. My card was my little Rhino card that I posted on my blog several days ago. Well, my friend Kaye sent in this card, and I just love it so much I had to show it to all of you, because good artwork should never go unseen!

Didn't she do such an awesome job? And the little blue flowers in the corners are heat embossed with Bashful Blue craft ink and clear embossing powder. What a neat touch. And with all that paper piercing, I just went crazy in love!

SO, now that I've shared, take a moment and visit her blog. She's still working on it, but her work is great, so check it out!

Thanks Kaye for a great card - what a great contribution to the swap! Woo hoo!

Simple Tag

Oh my, I got tagged and I was super suprised!! Thanks Julie for thinking of me!

Okay, so at least this one was simple, so I have no problem offering it up:

7 Random Things About Me:

1. I want to move to California really badly
2. I have wanted to be an singer and actress since I was 3 (I remember the day I decided it - it's TRUE!)
3. I sell Cookie Lee jewelry in addition to SU!
4. I can speak Spanish (somewhat)
5. If I could redecorate my home, it would have a CLEAN Asian theme
6. I don't mind doing laundry, but I HATE HATE HATE cleaning the shower!!
7. My parents have been married for 43 years and still love each other!

Now I'm going to tag:

Kimmie - http://kraftinkimmieskorner.blogspot.com/
Sarah - http://twinklebella.blogspot.com/
Sher - http://sherristampingspot.blogspot.com/
Kenzie - http://scrapinkenz.blogspot.com/
Angel- http://angelosity.blogspot.com/
Kyla - http://swdkylamaestas.blogspot.com/
Jana - http://stampwithjana.blogspot.com/

Whew! I'm done~

Invite In Color

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2008

So, here's a sneak peek if you're going to my workshop this Sunday - so look at your own risk! It's a little squash card that was featured in a newsletter from SCS. Here's a link directly to the directions for this card - TAKE ME THERE! The only major change I made with this one is adding circle clips instead of using ribbon to keep it closed. I did this because my hostess HATES to tie ribbon, and if she's going to make a bunch of these I couldn't do that to her.

I have said it before and I'll say it again, I LOVE the In Color COLORS THIS YEAR!! Last year there were a couple that I could take or leave, but this year I'm totally excited (can you tell?!) and am having a BLAST playing with them. This card also uses the new InColor patterned paper. I only purchased the Soft Sky one so far, but I can definitely see myself getting more of them soon, cuz they're really fun to play with and I really like the patterns too. Not a junker in the bunch!

Oh, so here's the way the card looks opened up:

I didn't stamp anything on the inside because at this point I have nothing current that I can use for an invitation, which is what the hostess requested, so I'm leaving it blank and letting her know she can put her information in there with whatever she wants later.

Sets: Baroque Motifs, Sincere Salutations

Colors: Blue Bayou, Soft Sky

Other: Patterned Paper (Soft Sky), circle clips (non SU!)

I hope you like it! Now go make one yourself - this little card only looks complicated. You'll be surprised how easy it is to make!

Have fun!

Celebrate "Before"

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2007

This card is soon to be modified a bit because it isn't working for me, so consider this as the "before" pic. Later it's going to be more dazzling, and the background is going to be re-vamped and refreshed. Get ready, cuz next week you'll get to see the "after"!

Sets: Big Pieces, Canvas BG, Wonderful Words
Colors: Groovy Guava, Barely Banana, Wild Wasabi
Other: On Board, Fire "bling" brad, dimensionals, paper piercing kit

Monday Ritual...I need one!

Okay, so I work on Mondays, but I desperately want to share something cool with you EVERY day, so I have decided to come up with a "feature post" that you can look forward to. Sound good? Now I have to spend a bit of time to come up with it, but if you have any great ideas, you let me know. I'm thinking a fun YouTube video maybe, or perhaps I'll share a blog for you to visit, or maybe a tutorial, or maybe a sale, or a joke, or a blogthing or a quiz or a quote.... UGH! So many ideas, so little blog! lol

I'll be back~

Cherish

images (c) Stampin' Up!, 1990-2008

OMG - can you just tell I'm in LOVE with this new card size (4.25 x 4.25)? I'm having sooo much fun with it, I can't STOP! lol

I am also so in love with this Baroque Motifs stamp set!! This is the first card I've done using it, and I think you're all gonna get sick of looking at my upcoming projects, because I'll probably be using this one a lot. Hope you don't mind! lol

Sets: Baroque Motifs, Warm Words
Colors: Purely Pomegranite, River Rock, Very Vanilla
Other: Burgundy grosgrain, dimensional

Meanwhile, I'm stamping today because they're STILL here working on my patio today... and I just can't take all the running around anymore, so I'm staying HOME (until lunch, then I'm on errand run again) to play with my new stuff some more, plan my party for next weekend, and let my daughter play with her cousin who slept over at our house last night. That means a content daughter, which also means quiet time for me to stamp - FINALLY!!!

I hope you all are having a wonderful Saturday, and that you're keeping cool, wherever you are - it's HOT here today! Great day for stamping in a basement, don't you think?! ; )

Later gaters~