A Super Simple Christmas Card ...

TGIF hoarding card-makers and welcome to the weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

This week, Sharon says: "Clean and Simple is definitely the way to go when we need to mass produce. But it's also a very refreshing and pleasing style to fall back on any time at all. Today let us truly think Clean and Simple ... SUPER SIMPLE! And let's make cards with Christmas OR winter in mind as we inspire each other with all our Clean and Simple creations!

Shut the front door! This is The. Best. Stamp. Simply. Challenge. Ever! I {♥} this challenge! Thanks so much Sharon, for combining my very favorite style and theme!

Sooooo, if super-simple is what you want, super-simple is what you get:

To play along in this week's challenge ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a SUPER CLEAN and SIMPLE card. Then, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery and visit Sharon's blog, located HERE and link your project up to Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime163" so that we can find your project.

Need more inspiration? Don't miss the fabulously creative projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Our Fearless Leader, Sharon Johnson: No Time to Stamp?;

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Janine Orchard: 2 B Krafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden;

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.; and our talented Guest Designer for October,

Jerri Kay Jimenez: A Touch of Grace.

If you'd like, you can see all of the Splitcoast Stampers gallery submissions HERE.

We can't wait to see your clean and simple creation!

Thanks so much for sharing part of your very busy day with me ... hope you have a fabulous weekend!

~Hugs,


Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Real Red" and "Whisper White" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamp: "Make Merry" from "Tags So Much" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Real Red" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessory: Red and White Checked Gingham Ribbon
• Tools: Tag Punch by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4" (Top-Folded)
  

Simply Blessed ...

TGIF hoarding card-makers and welcome to the weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

This week, Sharon is reminding us to be thankful for all of our many blessings. And with Thanksgiving approaching, we are reminded to Count Those Blessings! Today's challenge is wide open, but it has to have an overall theme of thankfulness. Some ideas include a thank-you note, a small hostess gift, a project featuring our children, home, friends, etc. Create something that will, in some way, convey thanks for all our blessings ... and please tell us what blessings you're thankful for as you create your project!

I'm grateful for so many blessings, but mostly for a happy home and dear friends ... and rubber stamps, designer paper, and ribbons, of course! Here's my uncharacteristically bright and busy card:

I decided to create a "suspension" card for this week's challenge ... a fun effect that looks like it took forever but is really quite simple. Kid's love these cards!

I followed the directions provided by the l'il voices inside my head, but you can create your own suspension card by using Beate's Suspension Card tutorial on Splitcoast Stampers, HERE.

To play along in this week's challenge ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a card or other paper project following the theme of thankfulness. Then, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery and visit Sharon's blog, located HERE and link your project up to Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime162" so that we can find your project.

Need more inspiration? Don't miss the fabulously creative projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Our Fearless Leader, Sharon Johnson: No Time to Stamp?;

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Janine Orchard: 2 B Krafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden; (AJ is taking this week off)

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.; and our amazing Guest Designer for October,

Jerri Kay Jimenez: A Touch of Grace.

If you'd like, you can see all of the Splitcoast Stampers gallery submissions HERE.

We can't wait to see your thankful creation!

Thanks so much for sharing part of your very busy day with me ... hope you have a fabulous weekend!

~Hugs,


Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Indian Summer" Paper Collection by BasicGrey
• Stamps: Leaf Stamp by StampCraft; Sentiment from "Falling Leaves" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Really Rust" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Ivory Thread; Satin Ribbon; Rhinestones by KaiserCraft
• Tools: Bow Easy Tool; 1 5/8" Square Punch; Word Window Punch by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Simply Back to Nature ...

TGIF hoarding card-makers and welcome to the weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

This week, we're being inspired by Mother Nature! Create something with a natural, earthy feel reflective of any season you enjoy. It's the natural/earthy element we're going for here ... not necessarily autumn.

I grew up in Connecticut and I really miss autumn in New England. My card is a l'il bit autumn ... and a l'il bit wildlife ... in a very clean and simple format:

To play along in this week's challenge ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a card or other paper project using Mother Nature for your inspiration. Then, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery and visit Sharon's blog, located HERE to link up your project in Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime160" so that we can find your project.

Need more inspiration? Don't miss the fabulously colorful projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Our Fearless Leader, Sharon Johnson: No Time to Stamp?;

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Janine Orchard: 2 B Krafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden;

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.; and our amazing Guest Designer for October,

Jerri Kay: A Touch of Grace.

If you'd like, you can see all of the Splitcoast Stampers gallery submissions HERE.

We can't wait to see your Back to Nature creation!

Thanks so much for sharing part of your very busy day with me ... I hope your weekend is fabulous!

~Hugs,


Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: All Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamps: "Just Vine" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Pumpkin Patch" Spectrum Dye Ink (Retired) by Stampin' Up; Fluid Chalk Inks by Clearsnap
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Sentiment Die by Provo Craft; Two-Step Bird Punch by Stampin' Up; Corner Chomper by WRMK'ers; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up

Check out the amazing buys on Stampin' Up's Clearance Rack! Click HERE to shop online 24/7.

Simply Pleated ...

TGIF hoarding card-makers and welcome to the weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

Pleated ribbon seems to be all the rage of late, so today Sharon is challenging us to make creations with pleated ribbon. You may use purchased pleated ribbon or you may pleat your own by hand or on a sewing machine or with tape. Whatever you can dream up -- show us some fun pleats! And for the purpose of this challenge, we will equate 'gathers' to pleats -- either/or is fine!

For those of you who'd like a l'il guidance, click HERE for a simple pleat mini-tutorial by Michelle Woerner.

Since Hallowe'en is just around the corner, and since I send out dozens of Hallowe'en cards, I decided to create a Hallowe'en card. This card is a CASE of a project featured in last year's Holiday Mini Catalog from Stampin' Up:

TIP: I created the 'cemetery' background using a jumbo wheel stamp from Stampin' Up ... but I don't own a jumbo wheel handle. So, should you fall in love with a jumbo wheel stamp but don't want to invest in a handle and several ink cartridges, do like I do: Unmount the stamp from the wheel, and remount it on your preferred mounting system, (I use Original HALOS or cling-foam).

The biggest benefit to un-mounting your wheeled stamps is that you can stamp your image(s) in any color ink you have in your collection. And they store perfectly in a Clear-Mount Stamp Case by Stampin' Up. Give it a try!

To play along in this week's challenge ... and we hope you do! ... simply embellish your paper creation with pleated ribbon, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery, then visit Sharon's blog, located HERE to link up your project in Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime153" so that we can find your project.

Need more inspiration? Don't miss the fabulous "pleated" projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Sharon, Our Fearless Leader: No Time to Stamp?;

AJ: The Willow Garden;

Barb: Explore. Dream. Discover.;

Barbara: Paper Pursuits;

Deb: Dream in Color;

Janine: 2 B Krafty;

Jenny: One Krafty Kat; and our talented Guest Designer for August,

Charlene: Paper and Ink Playground.

If you'd like, you can see all of the Splitcoast Stampers gallery submissions, HERE.

We can't wait to see your pleated ribbon creation!

Thanks so much for spending part of your very busy day with me ... have a fabulous weekend!

~Hugs,


My Card Also Qualifies for These Challenges:

• Aud Sentiments: Anything Goes
• Charisma Cards: Die-Cuts (Labels One Die)
  
• Craft Your Passion: Anything Goes
• Just Scraps: Open House
  
• Kaboodle Doodles: Add a Little Metal (Typewriter Key Word)
• Paper Romance: Metal Heads (Metal Typewriter Key Word)
  
• Papertake Weekly: Sketch
  
• Sentimental Sundays: Ribbon or Lace
  
• Simple Doodles: Let's Celebrate (Hallowe'en)
• Stampin' B's: Die Cut: Labels One Die/Circle: Typewriter Key-Style Word/Flower: In Cemetery ... I Think)
• Stamping Vacation, Clear As Mud Challenge: Candy
• Sweet Stampin' Challenge: Favorite Stamp (Is Currently "Twick or Tweet" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up!)
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Basic Black," "Tangerine Tango," and "Whisper White" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamps: "Haunting Hill" Jumbo Wheel Stamp by Stampin' Up; "Twick or Tweet" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Basic Black" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Color Medium: Copic Markers
• Accessories: Orange Gingham Ribbon; Metal Typewriter Key Word by K&Company
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Corner Chomper by WRMK'ers; Labels One Die by Spellbinders; 1/4" Double-Sided Adhesive; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

Two's Company, Three's a Crowd ...

TGIF stampin' paper-hoarders and welcome to the weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

Is "two company, and three a crowd?" It is this week! This week, the Stamp Simply team is challenging you to use "2 of Something" on your card or other paper project. Some fun twosomes include: 2 different patterned papers, 2 stamped images, 2 brads, 2 flowers, 2 bows, or 2 charms. Be creative ... but don't add that third 'something' ... only 2 are allowed! Have fun with this one!

I created my card using: 2 different stamped images; 2 sets of 2 different patterned papers, 2 different inks, 2 different colors of card stock, and 2 ribbons:

To play along ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a card or other paper project using "2 of Something," upload it to your blog or online photo gallery, then visit Sharon's blog, located HERE to link up your project in Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime149" so that we can find your project.

Need more inspiration? Don't miss the fabulous projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat; (Jenny is on hiatus this week)

Sharon Johnson, Our Fearless Leader: No Time to Stamp?;

Janine Orchard: 2BKrafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden;

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.; (Barb is on hiatus this week), and our fabulous Guest Designer for July,

Clare Buswell: Clare's Creations.

If you'd like, you can see all of the Splitcoast gallery submissions, HERE.

We can't wait to see your "2 of Something" project!

Sooooo yesterday, Sheila's insane crazy sister, Jill, stopped by. Since Sheila is away, apparently I'm her go-to-shoulder.

"Jack and I had a huge fight. It was over such a stupid thing, too. And now I'm so upset ... and I can't stop crying ... what should I do?" Jill asked, sobbing.

"Oh, don't worry, Jill, these things happen. Just try and relax ... this will all blow over, just you wait and see. He'll be calling to apologize before you know it." I offered.

"No, he won't. He hates me now."

"He doesn't hate you ... you had a silly fight. He'll realize that it was silly, too, and then you two will kiss and make-up." I said.

"No, he won't. And he DOES hate me."

"Umm, yes, he WILL, Jill." I said, beginning to hate her a l'il myself.

"He won't. I know he won't."

"He WILL." I insisted, completely exasperated.

"No he won't. I know it. And even if I apologize to him, he won't forgive me. Men are good for only one thing!" She declared.

"Well, yes," I said, "but how often do you need to parallel park?"

Thanks so much for spending part of your very busy day with me ... hope you have a fantastic weekend!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• Crafty Creations: Happy or Sweet (Sweet Sentiment)
• Creative Cottage: Touchy Feely (Ribbon)
• Creative Inspirations: Oldest in Stash (DP 5+ Yrs Old)
• Digi Doodle: Anything Goes
  
• Etsy Inspired: "Mermaid Tears" (Berry Brown Earrings)
• KL Stampin' N' Scrappin': Ribbon
• Let's Capture Our Memories: Use Your Stash (Designer Paper)
  
• Practical Scrappers: 1+ Year Old Stash (Designer Paper)
• Stamptacular Sunday: Ice Cream Colors (Hot Fudge Sundae)
  
• The Play Date Cafe #39: Color Inspiration (Black Text)
• The Stamp Man Challenge: Anything Goes
• Totally Stampalicious: For My Best Friend
  
• Whimsical Ink Sat Challenge: Two Different Patterned Papers
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Chocolate Chip" and "Crumb Cake" (f/k/a 'Kraft') Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Antique Document" and "Perennials" from the "Forget-Me-Not" Collection (Discontinued) by Daisy D's
• Stamps: Floral Border and Sentiment from "Vintage Vogue" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Chocolate Chip" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up; "Chestnut Roan" Fluid Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
• Accessories: Vintage Seam Binding Tape
• Tools: Mini Glue Dots; Stamp-A-Ma-Jig, Perfect Layers Tool, and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Trees Three if You Please ...

Happy Thursday, crafty stampers ... hope your week is flying by!

If you haven't guessed from the above photo, today's card project is a Christmas card. I have vowed to make 200 holiday cards between now and December 15 in an effort to actually get some of them in the mail. Yup, that would be a Christmas miracle!

Here's this week's clean and simple holiday miracle card:

This card was created with the wildly popular Stampin' Up set, "Trees Three." It's been retired for some time but people are still paying outlandish prices for these on eBay. Truth is, I think this set is more popular now than it was when it was originally released! By the way, if you're in the market for this set, I could be persuaded to sell mine ... just sayin'.

For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo ... and for all of the heart-pounding product info, check out the Card Recipe, below.

So, since Sheila left for Wisconsin, I've been pickin' up a few hours of babysitting with Reid-the-Wild-Child.

So, yesterday, when Sheila's insane wacky sister, Jill, stopped by with her equally insane wacky boyfriend, Jack, I figgered they were there to relieve me.

"Oh, no, Deb," Jill said, "we're just here for moral support."

Great. That's what I needed: moral support.

"Well, duh, don't forget about the gift for Reid." Jack offered.

At word of presents, Reid hurried into the kitchen to see what he'd scored.

"Here ya go, big guy," Jack said, handing over a small package, "hope you can use these!"

Reid tore into the package ... and pulled out a pair of 'C' size batteries.

"Umm, thank you very much. But ... what do I do with these?" Reid asked.

"Geez, I dunno, kid" Jack replied, "don't you have some toys that need batteries?"

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... you rock!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• Cards for Men: Christmas in July
• Catch the Bug: Christmas in July
• Christmas Cards All Year Round: Anything Goes
• Christmas Stampin' All Year Long: Free Challenge
  
• Drunken Stampers: Water (Snow = Frozen Water)
  
• Fab 'n' Funky: It's Christmas!
  
• Freshly Brewed: Christmas in July
• Fussy and Fancy Friday: Christmas in July Part 2
  
• Little Red Wagon: Use a Tree
  
• Magical Crafts: Christmas in July
  
• Paper Cutz: Christmas in July
  
• Shabby Tea Room: Christmas in July
  
• Squigglefly: Christmas in July
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Buckaroo Blue" (Retired), "Chocolate Chip," and "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamps: All Stamps from "Trees Three" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Buckaroo Blue" and "Chocolate Chip" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Satin Ribbon
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Ahhhh, The Simple Things ...

Happy Monday hoarding card-makers ... hope your weekend was long and fabulous!

Today's card project was created for the Color Throwdown in honor of their 100th challenge ... congratulations CTD; here's to the next 100!

To help celebrate their 100th challenge, the team has come up with this fab color combination:

And here's my take:

There's still time to play along! Clicky HERE for all of the challenging deets.

For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo ... and for all of the colorful product info, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Soooooooo, this weekend Sheila and I decided to head out to our favorite beach.

"Did you bring sunblock?" Sheila asked as we settled into our beach chairs.

"Of course. Need some?"

"What did you bring?" Sheila asked.

"SPF 45." I replied.

"Not strong enough. I wanna squeeze the tube and a sweater comes out."

Thanks so much for spending part of your very busy day with me!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• City Crafter: Some Like It Hot
• Color Throwdown 100th Challenge: Color
• Corrosive Challenge: Sketch
  
• Cowgirls Sunday Challenge: Sherbet and Ice Cream
• Cupcake Inspiration #67: Colors
• Cute Card Thursday: Schools Out for Summer
• Delightful Sketches: Bright Summer Colors
• Easy Craft Projects: Summer
  
• Etsy Inspired: "Octavia Brown" (Art Deco Glass Compote)
• Fresh Brewed Challenges: Summertime
  
• Hanna and Friends: Unused Stamps (Cherry Stamps)
  
• Opus Gluei: Make Someone Smile
• Paper Sundaes: Lots of Layers
  
• Pile It On: A Holiday Twist
• Cupcards {2 Go}*: Something Fun & Fruity (Cherries)
  
• Terrifically Thrilling Thursday: Celebrate the Small Stuff
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: All Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Cherry Hill" Collection by October Afternoon
• Stamp: Cherry Images from "Fabulous Fruit" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up; Sentiment by Hero Arts
• Ink: All Dye Inks by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Long Rectangle Die; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)

*Thanks, Erin ;)

Simply Christmas ...

TGIF stampin' paper-hoarders and welcome to the weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

One week a month, Sharon turns one of the DT members loose and let's us pick the challenge. This time around, it's my turn! And since I ♥ Christmas ... and since most of the country is suffering a heatwave, I've chosen "Christmas in July." So, this week create a Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa project ... the more festive, the better!

Pop in a holiday CD and break out the snowflake dies! Why not get a jump-start on your holiday card-making and play along.

Here's my super-simple, punchy Christmas card:

To play along ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a holiday project, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery, then visit Sharon's blog, located HERE to link up your project in Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime147" so that we can find your holiday project.

Need more inspiration? Don't miss the fabulous projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Sharon Johnson, Our Fearless Leader: No Time to Stamp?;

Janine Orchard: 2BKrafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden;

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.; and our fabulous Guest Designer for July,

Clare Buswell: Clare's Creations.

If you'd like, you can see all the Splitcoast Stamper gallery submissions, HERE.

Sooooooo in keeping with the holiday theme, yesterday Sheila, her not-playing-with-a-full-deck fun sister, Jill, and I went out to our favorite tree nursery. We went looking for Foxtail Palms, but somehow ended up looking at baby pine trees.

"Oh, girls, I think we should get our Christmas trees now!" Jill exclaimed.

"Oh, Jill, I think NO." Sheila mimicked.

"But why not?" Jill persisted.

"Because Ms. Fruit-Loops, it's July ... and these are BABY trees, that's why." Sheila answered.

"Well, yeah, they're kinda small right now, but if we buy them now, they'll be huge at Christmas!" Jill replied.

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... hope you have a fabulous weekend!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• ABC Christmas Challenge: Noel
  
• Cards for Men: Christmas in July
• Christmas Cards All Year 'Round: Anything Goes
• Christmas Stampin' All Year Long: Free Challenge
  
• Corrosive Challenge: Christmas in July
• Die Cut Dreams Christmas Club: Christmas Wreath
  
• Flourishes Timeless Tuesdays: Christmas in July
• Fussy and Fancy Challenge: Christmas in July
  
• Incy Wincy Designs: Punches (Pine Bough Punch)
  
• Meljen's Designs: Circles Galore (Wreath)
  
• Pile It On: My Favorite Things (Christmas!)
• Simple Doodles: Holiday Fun
  
• Stampin' B's Design Team: Polka Dots (On Wreath)
• Winter Wonderland: T'was The Night Before Christmas
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: All Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamp: Sentiment from "Christmas Foliage" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Real Red" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Red Satin Ribbon
• Tools: Bow Easy by Stamp Simply Ribbon Store; Pine Bough Punch by Martha Stewart; SAMJ by Stampin' Up; Tombow Mulit Mono-Glue from Stampin' Up; SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up; Crop-a-Dile and Corner Chomper by WRMK'ers
  
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Simply Sketchy ...

TGIF stampin' paper-hoarders and welcome to the weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

This week, Sharon's designed a great sketch for us to follow:

Go 'clean and simple' or fancy it up as much as you'd like, just follow this basic sketch. You can double-click on the sketch and print out a full-size copy of the sketch.

To play along ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a project following this sketch, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery, then visit Sharon's blog, located HERE, to link up your project in Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime144" so that we can find your sketchy project.

Don't miss the fabulous projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Sharon Johnson, Our Fearless Leader: No Time to Stamp?;

Janine Orchard: 2BKrafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden; (AJ is on hiatus this week)

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.; and, our talented Guest Designer for June,

Julia Aston: Create With Me.

We can't wait to see your sketchy project!

Soooooooo while visiting Sheila yesterday, Reid-the-Wild-Child cornered me.

"So, Aunty, I have another extra-special, super funny, FREE joke for you."

"Well, thanks, Reid, but I'm tryin' to cut back." I said.

"No you're not. So here's what: A guy goes to a psychiatrist and says, "Doc, I keep having these crazy dreams. First I'm a teepee; then I'm a wigwam; then I'm a teepee; then I'm a wigwam. It's driving me crazy, Doc! What's wrong with me?" Reid whined dramatically.

"Oh, it's very simple." the doctor says, "You're two tents."

HaHaHaHaHaHaH! Reid is doubled over, gasping for breath ... and then,

"Aunty? What's a psychiatrist?"

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... hope your weekend is fabulous!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• 52-Card Pickup: Appreciation
• Catch the Bug: Go USA! (Red, White, and Blue)
• Crafty Angels: Favorite Stamp (Happy Harmony) Set
• Crazy Amigo: The World Cup
  
• Flourishes Timeless Tuesdays: Embossing (Dry)
• La-La Land Crafts: Embossing (Dry)
• Lots to Do: Wings (Butterfly)
  
• Meljen's Designs: Fiber, Ribbon, Lace
  
• Paper Playtime #3: Red, White, and Blue
• Secret Crafter Saturday #87: Include a Quote
• Sentimental Sundays: Summertime + Sentiment
• The Pixie Cottage: Make Mine Patriotic
  
• Treehouse Thursday: Tool Time (Die-Cut Machine, Dies, Embossing Folder)
  
• Whoopsi Daisy Challenge: Ribbons and Bows
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: All Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Report Card" Collection by October Afternoon
• Stamps: All Stamps from "Happy Harmony" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Real Red" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Red Satin Ribbon
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Square Die; A2 Embossing Folder; Embosslits "Beautiful Wings" Die by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4" (Top-Folded)
  

Shop for Stampin' Up products online ... 24/7 ... HERE

CAS-tastic Father's Day

Happy Stump Day, hampers ... and welcome to another fantastic CAS-tastic Wednesday challenge! And since Father's Day is this Sunday, this week we're creating Father's Day cards.

My card is a CASE of a card created by my sweet friend, the uber-talented Karen, of The Bald Dragonfly. I adhered to the 'Official Rules of Card CASE'ing,' and changed up Karen's design in at least three fairly apparent ways. Clicky HERE to see Karen's gorgeous card ... and here's my take:

To play along ... and we hope that you do! ... simply create a clean and simple Father's Day card.

Upload your project to your blog or online gallery and link your post to the CAS-tastic Wednesday Challenge blog, HERE, by 9:30 p.m. EST on Tuesday, June 22, 2010. Please mention that you're playing in the CAS-tastic Wednesday challenge on your blog post. One random winner will be chosen to receive their choice of five digital images from this week's fantastic CAS-tastic sponsor, "Di's Digi Downloads."

Be sure to submit your link to the "Simply Linked" widget on the CAS-tastic Wednesday blog ... and if you upload your project to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please be sure to use Keyword: "CWC008" so we can find your project.

Be sure to check out the fabulous cards posted by the rest of the fantastic CAS-tastic design team:

Agata: Under Construction;

Angie: Angie Cortes Designs;

Barbara: Paper Pursuits;

Bonnie Rose: A Life Unrehearsed;

Karen: The Bald Dragonfly;

Maylee: Maylee's Creative Corner; and,

Regina: Scrap Creations by Regina.

We can't wait to see your Clean and Simple Father's Day cards!

Sooooooooo, since I'm laying kinda low of late, I haven't had the opportunity to hang out with Sheila. But when I'm not around, Reid-the-Wild-Child always finds a reason to call me. In spite of everything I say, he's really a sweet boy ... and he'll prolly grow up to be a nurse ... or an axe murderer.

"So, Aunty, know what? My Great-Gramma is coming to see me!" Reid exclaimed.

"Well, that's great Kiddo, you must be excited. Where does she live?" I asked.

"At the airport." Reid answered.

"The airport?"

"Yup, whenever we want her, we just go there and get her."

Thanks so much for swinging by ... hope your day is fantastical!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• C.C.E.E. Stampers: One for the Males
• C.R.A.F.T. Challenge: Father's Day
• Cards for Men: Father's Day
• Crafty Ho's: Think BRIGHT!
• Creative Craft: For the Man In Your Life
  
• Drunken Stampers: Father's Day
• Etsy Inspired: "My Zoetrope" (Welcome Mister Bird)
• Fab 'n' Funky: Just For Dad
  
• Kah-Wink-E-Dink: Father's Day
• Magical Crafts: Father's Day
  
• Meljen's Designs: Sparkle, Glitter, Bling (Glittery Brads)
  
• My Time to Craft: X-tra Special (Dad)
• Oh, Alice: Inspiration
• Our Creative Corner: Gotcha Cornered (Sentiment/Brads)
• Paper Cutz: Father's Day
  
• Pear Tree Designs: Father's Day
  
• Rosie-D's Challenge: Something Blue ~ Hold the Fish
• Stampin' Royalty: Masculine
  
• The Town Scrapper: Father's Day
• Totally Stampalicious: Father's Day Card
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Whisper White" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamps: "Medallion" Stamp by Stampin' Up; Sentiment by CTMH
• Ink: "Really Rust" and "Taken With Teal" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Glitzy Brad Pitt(s)
  
• Tools: Distressing Tool by Tim Holtz; Stampin' Dimensionals by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Side-Folded)
  

'Bee' Happy ... 'Bee' Happy ... 'Bee' Happy

Happy Tuesday, hoarding card-makers!

Today's card project was created for Simplicity's "One Layer Wednesday" card challenge. This week, the challenge is to create a simple, one-layer card using repeating images. For all of the challenging deets, clicky HERE to visit Susan's blog.

I'm not sure how I feel about the way this v-e-r-y plain card looks, and it's certainly NOT one of my favorite cards, but you can't say it isn't simple:

And that's why they call it a "challenge," right?

For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo ... and for all of the fascinating product info, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Sooooooooo, yesterday I was hanging out at Sheila's while Reid-The-Wild-Child (and four or twelve of his closest friends), were running amok through her house.

When Ken, her DH called, Sheila yakked with him for a few minutes over the din, then called The-Wild-Child to the phone.

When Reid finally heard Sheila over the ruckus, he came to the kitchen and Sheila handed him the phone. The-Wild-Child listened intently for a couple of minutes, then ended the conversation with an enthusiastic, "I love you, too!"

After he hung up the phone, he turned to Sheila and asked, "Mommy, who was that?"

Thanks so much for swingin' by the old blog today ... I really appreciate it!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• Flourishes Timeless Tuesdays: Black, White, and One
• Gingersnap Creations, Chestnut Theme: Wings
• One Layer Wednesday: Repetition
• Paper Jewels: Anything Goes
• Sentimental Sundays: New/Neglected Stash (Both, Stamp Set)
• Studio 313 Hot Spot: Top Selling Albums (Eagles - Take it Easy)
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Whisper White" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamps: All Stamps from "Just B" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Basic Black" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Color Medium: Copic Marker
• Tools: Corner Round by WRMK's; SAMJ by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4" (Top-Folded)
  

Shop for Stampin' Up products online ... 24/7 ... HERE

You're so Sweet My Teeth Ache

Happy Tuesday, hoarding card-makers ... hope your long holiday weekend was fantabulous!

Today's card project was created for my "You're So Sweet" card stash using stamps from SU's "Trendy Trees" stamp set and lots of different shades of pink:

A l'il bright, huh? And I just realized that looking at this card makes my teeth hurt ... hurry, look away!

For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo ... and for all of the sweeeeeet product info, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Sooooooooo, yesterday after the parade Sheila and her family and the DH and I went to our community center for the Memorial Day ceremonies. On the way, Sheila explained to Reid-the-Wild-Child that he would meet some local veterans there.

"But what should I say to them?" Reid asked.

"Oh, just start by introducing yourself," Sheila replied, "then ask what branch of the military they served in."

Later at the meet-and-greet, a veteran came up to chat with us and Reid made sure to introduce himself to the gentlemen.

And then the Wild Child asked, "So, what tree are you from?"

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• My Time to Craft: Vivid Greeting Cards
• Quirky Crafts: Girly-Girl
  
• The Pink Elephant: Gotta Wear Shades
• Timbroscrapmania: Pink
• Totally Papercrafts: Monochromatic
• Tuesday Throwdown: Trees and Nature
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Melon Mambo" and "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Retired, Stampin' Up
• Stamps: Tree Parts from "Trendy Trees" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up; Sentiment by PTI
• Ink: "Chocolate Chip" and "Melon Mambo" Dye Inks by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Square Dies; Rick-Rack Die; SAMJ by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Shop for Stampin' Up products online ... 24/7 ... HERE

Simply Patriotic ....

TGIF stampin' peeps and welcome to the long holiday weekend! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

This week, our challenge is a "Flying High and Proud" color challenge. This weekend marks the beginning of the Memorial Day Weekend here in the U.S., a time we remember and honor those who have so bravely and proudly served our country. Realizing we have blog readers that span the globe, today our challenge is to make a card or other project using the colors of your country's flag. The project can be patriotic in nature, but it's not necessary.

When you upload your creation, PLEASE tell us your Country and your flag's colors.

Sooooooo, since I'm an American and my flag colors are red, white, and blue:

Please join us this week! When you've completed your patriotic project, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery, then visit Sharon's blog, located HERE, to link up your project in Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime141" so that we can find your project.

Don't miss the fabulous, patriotic projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Sharon Johnson, Our Fearless Leader: No Time to Stamp?;

Janine Orchard: 2BKrafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden;

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover., (Barb is on hiatus this week), and tonight we're saying goodbye to our wonderful Guest Designer for May,

Teresa Kline: Enjoy the VA Sunshine.

Sooooooooo, yesterday afternoon Sheila and I teamed up to do some grocery shopping for the long weekend. After we'd gotten all the groceries packed away in the trunk, I noticed a stream of fluid pouring from the bottom of Sheila's car.

Sheila turned red, white, and blue then got on the phone to call her DH to come rescue us. After leaving messages at his shop, on his cell phone, and back at her house, he finally called back and promised to come save us.

When he arrived twenty minutes later, he immediately got down on the ground to check the leak. After a few minutes, he popped back up and said we were good to go.

"Are you sure? Absolutely sure? I don't wanna break down somewhere between here and home." Sheila asked.

"Oh, I'm sure," he answered, "it's apple juice."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... have a fabulous holiday.

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• ABC Challenge: "V" is for Vintage ('Vintage' Vogue Stamp Set)
• Crafty Creations: Favorite Stamp (Vintage Vogue Set by Stampin' Up)
• Diva Coffee Break Designs: Color Challenge
  
• Fresh Brewed Designs: Red, White, and Blue
• Pixie Dust Studio: Going Round and Round (Brad, Flower)
• Res-Q Challenge: Red, White, and Blue
  
• Sentimental Sundays: Get Well
• Theme Thursday: Beauty (Beautiful Stamps)
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Real Red" and "Whisper White" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Patterns Pack III by Stampin' Up
• Stamp: Sentiment from PTI; Flowers from "Vintage Vogue" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Night of Navy" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Red Brad Pitts by American Crafts
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rectangle Dies; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Shop for Stampin' Up products online ... 24/7 ... HERE

Simply Gone Askew ...

TGIF hoarding card-makers! And, since it's finally another Friday, it's time for another "Stamp Simply" challenge!

This week, our challenge is "Gone Askew." Simply place your focal image(s) 'askew' on your card. No trying to center it or mat it perfectly; this week, it's all about off-center, misaligned, or outta whack. What could be easier!?!

Here's my "gone askew" card:

Why not join in this week? Creating a "gone askew" card is fast ... and fun! When you've completed your "askew" card, upload it to your blog or online photo gallery, then visit Sharon's blog, located HERE, to link up your project in Mr. Linky, located HERE.

When uploading to an online gallery, such as Splitcoast Stampers, SNR, or Paper Craft Planet, please use keyword: "ssnotime140" so that we can find your project.

Don't miss the fabulous, off-center projects created by the rest of the "Stamp Simply" team:

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Sharon Johnson, Our Fearless Leader: No Time to Stamp?;

Janine Orchard: 2BKrafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden;

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.; and our talented guest designer for May,

Teresa Kline: Enjoy the VA Sunshine.

Soooooooooo, yesterday Sheila and her deranged nutty sister, Jill, stopped by to say 'hey.'

While we were yakkin' it up, Sheila asked Jill if she was planning on attending our Church's Folk Mass this coming Sunday.

"Naw, I haven't gone to Mass in such a long time," she said. "Besides, it's too late for me. I've probably already broken all seven commandments."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... hope you have a fantabulous weekend!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• Creative Inspiration: Punches or Die Cuts (Heart Punch)
  
• Die Cut Dreams: Lace It Up
• Incy Wincy Designs: Blast From the Past
  
• Moe Joe Designs: Sketch (A 'Loose' Interpretation )
• S2G: Home Sweet Home / Color: Shades of Brown
• Shelly's Images: White Background Paper - No DP
  
• Sisterhood of Scrap: Shades of Brown
  
• The Secret Crafter: Metal
• The Three Muses: Relationships (Siblings)
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Other Paper: Corrugated Cardboard; Vintage Photo
  
• Stamps: "Definition" Background Stamp by Stampin' Up; Library Card Stamp by Maya Road
• Ink: "Basic Black" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up; "Pumice" and "Old Paper" Distress Inks by Ranger; "Chestnut Roan" Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
• Accessories: Crocheted Lace Ribbon; Metal Library Clip from Hodgepodge Hardware Kit by Stampin' Up; Metal Key Brad; Metal Photo Corners
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rick-Rack Die; Large Heart Punch by Stampin' Up; Tombow Mono Multi Glue from Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Shop for Stampin' Up products online ... 24/7 ... HERE