Simply Leaves ...

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 has challenged us to incorporate leaves into our projects -- any types of leaves, any type of card or project. Let's see some beautiful "Falling Leaves" this week as we transition info fall mode!

Here's my leafy card:

You can't tell from the photo, but I stamped my images using 'Walnut Ink' Distress ink, then clear embossed both the leaf and the sentiment.

To play along in this week's challenge ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a paper project using the Falling Leaves theme. 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: "ssnotime155" so that we can find your project.

Need more inspiration? Don't miss the fabulously leafy 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; and,

Jenny: One Krafty Kat.

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

We can't wait to see your leafy creations!

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

~Hugs,


I'm Entering This Card in These Challenges:

• ABC Challenge: 'C' is for Charms
• A Crafty Little Place: Anything Goes
• Allsorts: Garden or Park Inspiration
  
• Artful Inkables: Think Ink (Distress Inks)
  
• Belli Challenge: Old Stamps ("Autumn" Stamp Set, 2000)
• C.E.S. Challenges: Anything Goes
• Corrosive Challenge: For the Guys
  
• Digi Doodle: Write Me a Message
• Divine Diva: Inspiration
• Etsy Inspired: 'Caged Fairy' (Inspired by THIS)
  
• Papertake Weekly: Just the One (1 DP/1 Word/1 Leaf/1 Ribbon)
• Pollycraft Monday: Add a Little Nature
• Sentimental Sundays: Clean and Simple
  
• Stampin' B's: Use a Charm
• Stampin' Sisters in Christ: Metal (Metal Leaf Charms)
• Stamping Vacation: Fountain of Youth (Leaf)
  
• The Paper Players: Anything Goes
  
• The Shabby Tea Room: (Old=Stamp Set / New=Ribbon)
  
• The Three Muses: Back to Nature
• Wee Memories: In the Forest
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: All Card Stock by Stampin' Up!
• Designer Paper: BasicGrey
  
• Stamps: All Stamps from the "Autumn" Stamp Set (Retired), by Stampin' Up!
• Ink: "Antique Linen" and "Walnut Stain" Distress Inks by Ranger
• Accessories: Metal Leaf Charms; Grosgrain Ribbon; Thread; Clear Embossing Powder
  
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rectangle Die; Ink Tool; Heat Gun; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up!
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

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)
  

Thanks for the Funny Lookin' Trees ...

Happy Thursday, hoarding card-makers ... only two more go-to-beds 'til the holiday weekend!

Today's card project was created for my "thank you" card stash ... naw, I'm kiddin' ... it's for my Funny Lookin' Trees card stash:

The color palette I used was inspired by this week's Moxie Fab Tuesday Trigger challenge:

Such a beautiful color palette ... so, hey, why not play along?!? Check it out: find all of the challenging deets, clicky HERE.

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

Soooooooo, Sheila and her certifiably insane wacky sister, Jill, stopped over yesterday. While we were hanging around, Sheila mentioned that she had heard ... or read ... that police in California had arrested a couple for trying to sell their baby for $25 at a Wal-Mart.

"Omigosh, only $25.00?!? Wow, Wal-Mart really does have low prices!" Jill said.

Thanks so much for swingin' by the ol' blogstead today!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• A Crafty Little Place: Color Me Delovely
  
• Cowgirls Sunday Challenge: Cowgirls Inspiration
• Crafty Angels: A Favorite Stamp
  
• Crazy Challenge: Make It In An Hour
  
• Creative Craft Challenge: Stamp It Up (Sentiment, Trees)
  
• Incy Wincy: Things with Wings (Birds in Tree Tops)
  
• Moxie Fab Tuesday Trigger: Inspired by Color Palette
  
• Shabby Tea Room: Inspiration
  
• Stampin' Royalty: Seeing Double (Stamped Trees Twice, Two Stamped Images)
• There She Goes: Going Green (Green / Trees)
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: Kraft (Officially 'Crumb Cake') Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Sweet Summer" Collection by Elle's Studio
• Stamps: All Stamps by Unity Stamp Company
• Ink: "Chocolate Chip" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Twill Tape by Stampin' Up
• Tools: SAMJ by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)
  

Simply Colorful ...

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 has challenged us to a color challenge. Our challenging colors today are yellow and gray with EITHER white or ivory as your neutral. You may also use a little pop of black as well.

Here's a look at the inspiration photo:

Isn't this a terrific color combination? Apropos of nothing, I totally love this room!

And here's a look at my card:

To play along ... and we hope you do! ... simply create a project using the inspiration photo for your color palette, 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: "ssnotime145" so that we can find your colorful 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;

Deb Saaranen: Dream in Color;

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

Julia Aston: Create With Me.

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

Soooooooo, last night Sheila's crazy fun sister, Jill, stopped by with her equally crazy fun boyfriend, Jack. Yup, Jack & Jill ... I've described much of their craziness hilarity here on my blog. If you'd like, you can do a blog search for "Jack and Jill" to see what you've missed.

PS: The search box is on the upper-left hand corner of this page, on the navy blue border ... to the right of the big ol' Blogger letter "B." I mention this 'cuz many people don't realize you can search a blog this way ... only took me about 6 months to figger it out!

Where was I ... my train-of-thought jumped the track. Oh, yes, Jill and the Sandwich Man. So Jill and Jack stopped over last night and when they wouldn't leave got comfy, I offered refreshments.

"Oh, let me. I've got lots of bottles of wine in the car. And whiskey ... and some rum ... oh, and gin, too, if you'd prefer." Jack offered.

While he was out getting the wine, I mentioned to Jill that it was ... worrisome that he had so much liquor in his car.

"Oh, well, that's nothing to worry about. Jack always has liquor in this car." Jill explained.

"Okay, now I'm really concerned! Why would Jack carry an entire bar around with him? Jill, I'm asking 'cuz I care about you and don't want you in any danger ... or in any trouble. And frankly, I'm concerned ... so I have to ask: does Jack have a drinking problem?"

"Oh, good gracious, no, he doesn't have a drinking problem."

"Well, alright, that's good ... but why would he carry around a carload of alcohol?" I asked.

"Oh, silly, he only does that so he NEVER runs out!" Jill laughed.

Houston: We have a problem ...

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

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• CCEE Stampers: Summer Flowers
• Crazy 4 Challenges: Paper Flowers
  
• Creative Craft Challenge: Stamp it Up
• Delightful Sketches: It's All About Summer
  
• Design Dollies: Gray and Yellow
• Freshly Brewed Challenges: Anything Goes
• Just Add Ink: Patterned Paper
  
• Kah-Wink-E-Dink: Summer Free for All
  
• Other Lovelies Thoughtful Thursdays: Flowers
• Pile it On: Stickers (Quill Daisies)
  
• Practical Scrappers: Flowers
  
• Quirky Crafts: Summer
  
• S2G Twisted Thursday: Something New (Stamp)
• Wee Memories: Stickers (Quill Daisies)
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: Textured Gray Card Stock by Bazzill Basics; "Whisper White" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Thrift Shop" Collection by October Afternoon
• Stamp: Close to My Heart
• Ink: "Basic Black" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Quilled Daisies Stickers by Provo Craft; Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Perfect Layers Tool by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top-Folded)

Shhhhh ... I'm Watchin' Paint Peel

Happy Monday, Craftologists ... hope your weekend was long and lovely!

Today's card project was created with the current Play Date Cafe Challenge, PDCC29, in mind ... among others. I love to participate in this challenge as the color schemes are always fantastic ... and unusual. And this week is no exception ... here's a look at the inspiration photo:

WoWzA, you don't see this color combination every day ... or do you?!? 'Cuz you'll never guess what this photo is: it's an intense close-up of peeling paint. Who knew it was this exciting to look at paint peeling?!? W-a-y more fun than watching paint dry ... For all of the challenging deets, please visit The Play Date Cafe Challenge blog located HERE.

I tore my stash apart looking for something in that shade of lime green and was astounded to discover I had nothing. Well, we won't let a l'il thing like that stand in our way! I used something as close to that lime green as possible ... the mat behind the bunch of tulips:

A few l'il details: the tulip thingie is an ancient sticker from Paper Bliss, the ribbon is vintage seam binding, the edge of the tulips were colored with a pale blue Copic marker, and the flourish was cut from vintage wallpaper.

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

Sooooooooo, this weekend, Sheila's DH, Ken, was reading to us from the Palm Beach Post. He does this a LOT and it's kinda annoying ...

"Says here that the Department of Agriculture has decided to set new, stricter salmonella standards for poultry." Ken read to us.

"Well, Lord knows I'm no expert, but I'm pretty sure the standard should just be 'no salmonella allowed'." Sheila replied.

Thanks so much for visiting today ... I really appreciate it!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• ABC Challenge: 'U' is for 'Unused' (Paper Bliss Tulip Sticker)
• Clearly Delightful: Blue and Green
  
• Crafty Catz: Petals and Pearls
• Drunken Stampers: Scraps (Tulips; I Can't Get Rid of This!)
  
• Fairy Fun Friday's: Flowers
  
• Meljen's Designs: Flowers & Blooms
• Paper Make-Up Stamps: Three Flowers
  
• Res-Q Challenge: Superfoods (Kiwi: Color)
  
• The Play Date Cafe Challenge: Color
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: White by PTI; "Garden Green" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Pale Blue From "Periphery" Collection by BasicGrey
• Other Paper: Vintage Wallpaper
  
• Stamp: Sentiment by PTI
• Ink: "Garden Green" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Color Medium: Copic Marker (B0000)
• Accessories: Tulip Sticker by Paper Bliss; Vintage Seam Binding; Flat-Back Pearls
  
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rectangle Die; 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 Sketchy ...

TGIF, crafty stampers! And, since it's another fabulous Friday, it's time for another fabulous "Stamp Simply" challenge.

This week, "Stamp Simply" team member Jennifer Buck created a sketch for us to follow. It's a fun one and we can't wait to see all the creations it inspires! Here's a look at Jen's sketch:

There's nothing like a great sketch to jump-start your creativity! Here's a look at the 'thank you' card I created following Jennifer's sketch:

Please join us this week! Create anything you'd like following this fun sketch. When you've completed your sketchy 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: "ssnotime139" so that we can find your project.

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

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jennifer Buck: The Buck Stamps Here; (Sadly, this will be Jennifer's last week with us as she's decided to lighten her load of commitments and spend more time with her family. We'll miss you, Jennifer, and we'll be praying for you and your Mom! To read Jennifer's post, clicky HERE.)

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Sharon Johnson, Our Fabulous 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 May,

Teresa Kline: Enjoy the VA Sunshine.

Sooooooooooo, yesterday I stopped by Sheila's and found her and her whacked-out fun sister, Jill, lounging by the pool sipping frosty blender drinks and reading celebrity magazines.

"So, listen to this: Tyra Banks is writing a new series of kids' books. Like, hello? Tyra Banks?!?" Jill exclaimed.

"Oh, sure," Sheila responded, "It's prolly gonna be similar to Kate Moss' book, 'Green Eggs and Crack.'"

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

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• 365 Cards, Day 73: Tri-Colored
• City Crafter: Color Challenge
• Crafty Ann's: Anything Goes
• Etsy Inspired: Lindsay Brackeen (Cat Kitten Girl Print)
  
• For Fun Challenge: Use a Real Stamp
  
• Glenda's Random Amusing Challenge: Die-Cuts
• La-La-Land Crafts: Anything Goes
• Splitcoast Stampers, CC270: Melon Mambo, Soft Suede
  
• Stampaholics 10 Minute Challenge: Inspiration
  
• Stampavie and More: Pink
  
• Whoopsi Daisy Challenge: As You Like It
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Soft Suede" and "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Patterned Paper from the "Bloom & Grow" Collection by My Mind's Eye
• Stamps: Stamps from the "Trendy Trees" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Melon Mambo" and "Soft Suede" Dye Inks by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Square Dies by Spellbinders; Rick-Rack Die by PTI; Stamp-a-Ma-Jig 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

It's Earth Day ... Thank a Tree!

Happy Earth Day, Crafty Stampers! Hope your week is treatin' you kindly!

Since today actually is Earth Day, why not take a moment today to hug a tree? Or thank an owl?

Today's card project was created for the "Cards Blog" call for cards created with wood grain featured on them. It matters not if the wood grain is stamped, embossed, from patterned paper, or hand drawn ... it just has to be wood grain. Sounds easy, no?

To create my wood grain card, I stamped my large wood grain background stamp on a Kraft card stock base, then die-cut the owl, the branch, and the sentiment. Easy-peasy and ready to serve in just 15 Minutes!

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

Sooooo, I was hangin' out at Sheila's yesterday when her mail was delivered. In it was a box addressed to Reid-the-Wild-Child from Sheila's dear MIL.

As is her usual practice, Sheila prepared to tear into the package but I insisted that she wait. After all, Reid would be home in less than an hour ... and I gently reminded her what happened the last time she opened mail from her MIL addressed to Ken. For the back-story, clicky HERE.

As soon as Reid came home, Sheila thrust the package into his hands and insisted he open it immediately. What kid needs to be told that twice?!?

The Wild-Child stuck in his thumb ... and pulled out a ... journal!

"What am I supposed to do with this, Mom? There's nothing in here ... all the pages are blank." Reid asked, turning the journal in his hands.

"Oh, well, you write down interesting stuff that happens to you," she said, clearly as bored with the contents of the package as Reid was.

"Oh," he said, a look of enlightenment crossing his face. "It's like a blog on paper!"

Thanks for spending part of your busy Earth Day here on my paper-less blog!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• Crafty Cardmakers: Desert Island (Kraft CS/Die-Cut Machine/Dies)
• Creative Belli: Die-Cut Shapes
• Die Cuts R Us: Earth Day
  
• Gingersnap Creations Chestnut Theme: The Good Earth
• Glenda's Random Amusing Challenge: Kraft and White
  
• Inktegrity Design Team: Sketch
• One Stop Craft Challenge: Things with Wings
• Pals Paper Arts: K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Sweetie)
  
• Simon Says Challenge: Things with Wings
• Stamp With Fun: Animals
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: All Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamp: "Wood Grain" Background Stamp by Hero Arts
• Ink: "Chocolate Chip" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Quikutz "Owl" Die; Quickutz "Branch" Die; Cuttlebug "Thanks" Die; Quickie Glue Pen; 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

Thank You x 2 ...

Happy Thursday, Stampers!

Today's card project was created for my 'Thank You' card stash. I go through a ton of 'Thank You' cards and never seem to have enough. I try to make a 'Thank You' card at least once a week to keep up with my demanding thanking-you needs!

Here's a looky at my second 'Thank You' card of the week:

This beautiful Cornflowers image, from the "Spring Blooms" collection, is a FREE! digi-file available from The Paper Garden. The scallop-edge lavender background mat is also a digital file; this one is from a FREE! collaboration kit from the DigiChick.

I colored my vase and flowers with Copic markers, and stamped my sentiment with "Tuxedo Black" dye ink. I used DP from BasicGrey, and three l'il green Dew Drops. Doesn't get any simpler that this!

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

Sooooooooo, yesterday Sheila and I teamed up to run a couple of errands. But first, we needed to stop at the local Quik Mart for fuel ... and, of course, the requisite Diet Pepsi's for the road trip!

Sheila gassed up her car and somehow in the process managed to spill some gasoline on her jeans and sneakers. Good thing neither of us smokes!

As we entered the store we couldn't help but notice the woman behind the cash register wrinkling her nose.

So Sheila says to her, and everyone else within twenty feet, "I'm sooooo sorry, but if you smell gas, it's me."

Thanks for spending part of your busy day with me!

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• Allsorts: Spring Colors
• Challenge Up Your Life: Flower
• Copic Colour Challenge: Brown / Purple / Green
• Crafty Calendar: Flower Power, Optional: Pastels
  
• Crafty Cardmakers: Spring
• Crafty Catz: Spring
  
• Crazy 4 Challenges: Spring
  
• Digital Tuesday: Spring / Digital Image
  
• Frosted Designs: Use a Flower
  
• Fussy and Fancy: Green
  
• Irish Teddy's: Simple Things
• Paper Garden: Spring Colors
• Simple Doodles: Show a Little Green / Digital Image
  
• SophistiCat Challenge: Color Recipe / Flowers
• Stempeltraum: Purple-Lilac / Green
• Quirky Crafts: Flowers
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Whisper White" by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Euphoria" Collection by BasicGrey
• Digital Image: The Paper Garden
  
• Digital Paper: Lavender Mats by DigiChick
• Color Medium: Copic Marker
  
• Ink: "Tuxedo Black" Dye Ink by Tsukineko
• Accessories: "Grape Leaves" Dew Drops by Robin's Nest
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rectangle Dies; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

Don't Miss Out: Sale-a-bration Ends in Just Six Days! Shop for Stampin' Up products online ... 24/7 ... HERE

Thank You for ... the Willow Tree?

Happy Tuesday, Crafty Stampers!

Today's card project was created for a recent "May Arts" ribbon contest ... which I promptly lost ... so I thought I'd share it with you today.

Here's a look at my losing entry:

The card was created with an eons-old primitive-style tree stamp, a retired SU sentiment stamp, buttons, embroidery floss, an embossed background, a metal frame hanger, and some beautiful ribbon.

For the rest of the heart-pounding product info, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Soooooooo, yesterday I was hangin' out with Sheila when Ken, her poor, unsuspecting DH, wandered into the kitchen.

"So, Ken," Sheila says to her DH, "That young couple that just moved in across the street seem like such a lovey-dovey twosome. Every morning, when he leaves the house, he kisses her goodbye, and every evening when he comes homes, he brings her a bouquet of flowers. Now, why can't you do that?"

So Ken replies, "Why? I hardly know the girl."

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

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• Crafty Cardmakers: Spring Into Spring (Willow Tree)
• Etsy Inspired: Designs by Cathy (The Willow/Earth Friendly)
  
• Glenda's Challenge: Stripes (Ribbon/Cuttlebugged BG)
• If the Shoe Fits Fashionista Friday: Trees
• Paper Play: Thank You
• Pixie Dust Studio: The Power of Three (Three Colors)
  
• Practical Scrappers: Over a Year Old (Rubber Stamp)
• Secret Crafter: Spring (Willow Tree / Color Palette)
  
• Squigglefly: Buttons
  
• The Treehouse Thursday: Thank You
  
• Totally Gorjuss: Ribbon
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: "Bermuda Bay," "Chocolate Chip," and "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamps: Primitive Tree; Sentiment by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Chocolate Chip" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Grosgrain Ribbon; Buttons; Embroidery Floss; Antique Copper Brad and Metal Frame Hanger from Hodgepodge Hardware by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Square Dies; Rectangle Dies; Distressed Stripes A2 Embossing Folder; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

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Thank You For the Rooster:

Happy Thursday, all and one!

Today's card project is one of those projects that just gets ahead of you and then swerves off the charted path ... KWIM? It all started innocently enough: I wanted to do something with this ribbon, and before I knew it, I had ... this. You're speechless, right?

Because the card has the requisite ribbon, I'm entering into the Creative Belli challenge to use ribbon on your rooster card ... the older the ribbon, the better. For all the challenging old ribbon deets, clicky HERE. And Creative Belli gals? I've had this ribbon since ... always. This ribbon gives new meaning to the word, "vintage."

The rooster also qualifies for the Pollycraft Monday Challenge, "Things with Wings." For all the exciting winged-things challenge deets, clicky HERE.

For the rest of the product info, check out the supply list, below. If you dare ...

Sooooooooo, last night the DH and I were sitting out poolside with Sheila and her DH, just shootin' the breeze whilst enjoying the clear and balmy weather, sipping some yummy Red Roosters*. A perfect South Florida night under the stars. (The Red Roosters were in honor of ^the-blue-you-know-who^).

Sheila happened to mention that she'd applied for two jobs recently: one at a local shoe store, the other at the local branch of the Palm Beach County Library.

"Well, I hope you get the one at the shoe store. It would be nice to have employee discounts on shoes," Sheila's practical DH said.

Then he added, "Of course, if you get the job at the library, we'd get free books."

There's gotta be something in the water out here ...

Thanks so much for swingin' by ... have a great day!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: All Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Stamp: Rubber (Rooster) Stampede; Sentiment by Stampin' Up
  
• Ink: Cornflower Blue Dye Ink by CTMH
• Accessories: 1 1/4" Rooster! Ribbon; Vintage Button; Natural Jute Twine
• Tools: Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive Both by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

*In Connecticut, my preppy home state, a "Red Rooster" is better known as a "Madras." See the connection? Right ...

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

If you have any questions about Stampin' Up products or stamping techniques, feel free to contact me HERE. But NEVER ask me about this card ...

1 15 Minute Project ='s 3 Challenge Entries

TGiF Stampers!

Today's colorful card project was created for the Color Throwdown challenge #75. This week's challenge called for Garden Green, Rich Razzleberry, and Mellow Moss ... three colors I would never have thought to combine ... 'cuz I'm chicken. For all the challenge deets, clicky HERE. For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo.

Since I used the new SU bird punch and my sentiment is from SU's new Whimsical Words stamp set, the card also qualifies for SCS's Ways to Use It challenge, WT252, "In With the New." For all the details, clicky HERE. To go straight to the WT252 card gallery, clicky HERE.

And for my third challenge, it's back again to Splitcoast Stampers for WT253, "Where's the Birdie." For info on this challenge, clicky HERE. To go straight to the WT253 card gallery, clicky HERE. If you like bird images, you have gotta check out this awesome card gallery!

And to think I swore I'd never be one of those kinda challenge players ...

The hardest thing about this project was photographing it ... you've prolly noticed my below-par photo. The card itself was created in less than 15 Minutes.

I used the new Stampin' Up Extra-Large Two-Step Bird Punch, available in the Occasions Mini-Catalog, to create my focal point, then stamped the sentiment, a free-with-a-$50-purchase Sale-a-bration item, in Garden Green dye ink. A bit of embossing, a lot of dimensionals, and finis. Easy-peasy and ready to serve in just 15 Minutes!

For all the fascinating product info, check out the supply list below.

Soooooooo, last night was my mostly-irregular Girl's Night Out. The usual cast of irregular characters often includes Sheila's psychotic fun sister, Jill. Jill is very attractive, single, and a dating machine. Seriously, you need a scorecard to keep track of who's who when. We live vicariously through her ...

"So, how was your blind date last weekend?" our friend Barb asked Jill.

"Omigosh, Barb, just terrible! He showed up in a 1932 Rolls-Royce!"

"Well, what's so terrible about that?"

"He was the original owner."

Those of you keeping score (hi Chickies!), please scratch this player ...

Thanks so much for stopping by today; I really appreciate it. Have a fantastic weekend!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Stampin' Up
• Stamp: "Whimsical Words" Sale-a-bration Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Garden Green" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Oval Dies; A2 Embossing Folder; Extra-Large Two-Step Bird Punch by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals; SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
  
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

Purchase Stampin' Up products online 24/7 ... click HERE to shop!

Thanks for Being You; Everyone Else is Taken ...

Happy Stump Day, Hampers!

Today's card project was created for SCS's "Clean and Simple" card challenge, CAS25. This week's Clean and Simple challenge is a sketch challenge. For all the challenging deets, clicky HERE. To go straight to the CAS25 card gallery, clicky HERE. For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo.

I stamped my sentiment on a scrap of DP by Cosmo Cricket and created my focal point using a Tim Holtz "Fragments" charm, a rub-on, and a plethora of alcohol inks.

The card base and mat is card stock from Stampin' Up's new In Colors; the card is Crushed Curry and the mat is Bermuda Bay. Yummy!

For all the fantastical product info, check out the supply list, below.

Sooooooooo, yesterday afternoon Sheila announced that she is going to start a diet.

"Okeedokee," I said. "I'm ready to start a diet too. We'll be dieting buddies and help each other out. And when I feel the urge to drive out and get a burger and fries, I'll call you first."

"Great," Sheila replied. "I'll ride with you. Let's go to Burger King."

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Stamper's Select White by Papertrey Ink; "Crushed Curry" and "Bermuda Bay" Card Stock by Stampin' Up!
• Designer Paper: "Hello Sunshine" Collection by Cosmo Cricket
• Stamp: Sentiment from "Best Blossoms" Set by Stampin' Up!
• Ink: "Tuxedo Black" Memento Dye Ink by Tsukineko
• Color Medium: Alcohol Inks by Ranger Industries
  
• Accessories: Grosgrain Ribbon; DMC Embroidery Floss; Brad by American Crafts; Charm "Fragments" by Tim Holtz Idea-ology; Rub-On by BasicGrey
• Tools: Perfect Layers Tool by Stampin' Up!; Scotch ATG 714 Adhesive
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

Nothing Says "Thank You" Like Paper-Pieced Trees:

Happy Stump Day hampers!

Today's card was created for my 'thank you' card stash using stamps from Unity Stamp Company. This funky tree stamp is from Unity's "Fresh Beginnings" kit. I'm not sure where the sentiment stamps came from but I do believe they're Unity stamps as well.

To my card base, I adhered a 4" x 5 1/4" piece of patterned paper from Cosmo Cricket's "Hello Sunshine" collection. Using my trusty Stamp-a-ma-Jig, I stamped the tree image twice right on the patterned paper; then again on scraps of paper from the same collection. I paper-pieced the tree tops onto my card, stamped my sentiment, and tied a ribbon around the card. Finally, I adhered the whole shebang to my card base. Easy-peasy!

If you wanted to spend more time, you could paper-piece the l'il birdies, too ... but I chose not to; maybe next time.

For the rest of the exciting product info, please refer to the Supply List, below.

Sooooooo, I was hangin' out at Sheila's when her DH came in and mentioned that their wedding anniversary was coming up.

"So, my dear bride," Ken started, "what would make you happy for our anniversary?"

"Hmmmm," Sheila answered, "I want something shiny that goes from 0 to 200 in about 3 seconds."

"A scale it is then!" Ken exclaimed.

Even though it was a joke ... Sheila is nowhere near over-weight ... she smacked him, told him to get his own dinner and to sleep on the couch. Ah, hah! She's working on a car after all!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Stamper's Select" by Papertrey Ink
• Designer Paper: "Hello Sunshine" Collection by Cosmo Cricket
• Stamps: Tree Stamp and Sentiment by Unity Stamp Company
• Ink: "Chocolate Chip" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: 1/2" Twill Ribbon by Cosmo Cricket
• Tools: Stamp-a-ma-Jig by EK Success; Scotch ATG 714 Adhesive; Scrap Fusion Adhesive by Ivy Scraps
  

A Card & A Nugget Tin for a Spa ....

Good trade, huh?!?

Ahhhhhhh, a hot tub! I've always wanted one and since we have THE perfect spot for one in our pool enclosure, this luxury item has been on my "wish list" for a very long time. And prolly would have remained on it forever if it weren't for Freecycle!

I'm a member of my local Freecycle group and last weekend another member posted that they had a "like-new Leisure Bay Spa" to give away. I responded, and surprise! we were the lucky recipients ... pretty kewl birthday present, huh?!?

And it turned out to be just like-new ... complete with all the chemicals, hook-ups, manuals, an underwater light-show feature, AND aromatherapy samples! And it perfectly matches the color of my walls! {No, my walls aren't black, they're "redwood," but this is the best photo I could find.}

If you don't know what Freecycle is, go to Freecycle.org and check it out. I joined Freecycle years and years ago and have received some much needed items and have freecycled some unwanted items to others. Freecycle's mission is to reuse and to keep things out of landfills by swapping items among members. Membership is totally free and there's sure to be a group in your area.

Today more than ever, why buy if you can get what you want or need for free ... or throw something away when you can be giving your unwanted items to families who do want 'em?!? For more info on Freecycle, or to join your local group, clicky HERE.

While Freecycle is completely free, a thank you card and a l'il gift is always appropriate. And whens the last time you created a Nugget Tin? Can't even remember, right? Three years ago, they were the. hottest. paper-crafting. gift. Now, not so much. But since I had all the necessary supplies on hand, this seemed to be the easiest, and fastest, little "thank you" gift.

TIP: I purchase my hinged Nugget tins HERE ... and pay just $1.05 for each. If you want to purchase larger quantities, they're even less. I think that's the lowest price you will find for these tins, but if you know of a lower price, please feel free to share your secret!

For the rest of the exciting product info, check out the Supply List, below.

So, here's someone you want working for you:

Last night, Sheila and I toddled over to the Mall at Wellington Green so she could buy some Clinique face stuff. As she was signing the receipt for her credit card purchase, the clerk noticed that she hadn't signed the back of the credit card. The clerk informed her that she could not complete the transaction unless the card was signed.

"Why?" Sheila asked.

"Because," she replied, "I need to compare the signature on the credit card with the signature you just signed on the receipt."

So Sheila grabbed her pen, signed the credit card in front of her, and slid the credit card back to her.

The clerk carefully compared that signature to the one Sheila had previously signed on the receipt.

"Okay," she finally said, "You're all set; they match."

Duh.

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Stamper's Select" White by Papertrey Ink; "Kiwi Kiss" by Stampin' Up!
• Designer Paper: "Bali Breeze" Collection (Retired) by Stampin' Up
  
• Other Paper: Avery White Mailing Labels
• Candy: Hershey's Nuggets
  
• Stamps: "Holiday Treats" and "Limitless Labels" Sets by Papertrey Ink; "Trendy Trees" Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Cote d'Azure" Hybrid Ink by Stewart Superior; "Kiwi Kiss" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up; Versamark Watermark Ink by Tsukineko
• Accessories: Fine Detail White Embossing Powder by Stampendous; Jump Rings; 5/8" Satin Ribbon; "Nuggets" Tin by Speciality Bottle
  
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Nestabilities Dies by Spellbinders Paper Arts; 1 1/4" Circle Punch by EK Success; 1/16" Circle Punch by Fiskars; Stamp-a-ma-Jig by EK Success; Scotch ATG 714 Adhesive; Foam Tape
  

Lottsa L'il LadyBugs ...

Happy Tuesday, all and one! Oh. And happy "Kindergarten Day" too. Oh, goodie, let's get out our blankies and take our afternoon nap!

Today's card was created for SCS's "Clean and Simple" challenge, CAS11. This week's challenge is an "inspiration" challenge direct from the children's bedding department at JC Penney's.

For a look at my inspirational kid-let bedding, clicky HERE. For all the challenge deets, clicky HERE. To go straight to the CAS card gallery, clicky HERE. For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo. Phew, that's exhausting ...

For all the exciting product deets, check out the supply list, below.

Soooooooooo, yesterday I was hanging out in Sheila's kitchen when we heard the unmistakable sounds of kids laughing and splashing. Sure enough, four or five teenage girls were ... ummm, skinny-dipping in her pond.

Sheila's DH, Ken, went outside and strolled down to the pond. Once the girls saw him, they all went to the deep end of the pond.

One of the girls shouted to him, "We're not coming out until you leave!"

Ken replied, "I didn't come down here to watch you young ladies swim naked ... or to make you get out of the pond naked. I'm just here to feed the alligators."

WoWzA! I didn't know teenage girls could move that fast!

Have a great day, Kiddies!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Black Textured Card Stock by Bazzill Basics; "Stamper's Select" White by Papertrey Ink; "Real Red" Card Stock by Stampin' Up!
• Stamps: "Little Lady" Clear Acrylic Set by Papertrey Ink
• Ink: "Tuxedo Black" Dye Ink by Memento; "Real Red" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up!
• Accessories: Black and White Checked Gingham Ribbon by Michaels; Ladybug Brads, Unknown
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Provo Craft; Labels 1 Nestabilities Die by Spellbinder's; Crop-A-Dile by We Are Memory Keepers; "Threading Water" Border Punch by Fiskars; Glue Dots by Mini-Glue Dots; Scotch ATG 714 Adhesive
  

Thank You ... I Think

For better or worse. Okay, worse.

Today's card was card was created, using a Stampin' Up wheel, for SCS's "Limited Supplies" challenge, LSC216, "Wheely." For all the challenge deets, clicky HERE. To go straight to the "Wheely" card gallery, clicky HERE. For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo.

I've had this set, "Spring Solitude," for-evuh and have never used the wheel ... until now. Turns out I'm not very adept with the wheelie-action. I ruined more card stock with this wheel than I care to admit. So, back into the wheel-storage-box it goes! But, on the bright side, at least now I know how inept I am with it!

For all the exciting product info, check out the supply list, below.

So, this weekend the DH got a call from a computer-challenged client.

He asked the caller: "How much free space do you have on your hard drive?"

"Well, my wife likes to get up there on that there Internet, and she downloaded ten hours of free space. Is that enough?"

What?!? I only got five hours of free space!!

Have a great day!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Pacific Point" by Stampin' Up! "Vintage Cream" by Papertrey Ink
• Stamps: "Spring Solitude" Set and Wheel by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Vintage Cream" Hybrid by Papertrey Ink; "Pacific Point" by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Ribbon; Mini-Brads
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Nestabilities Dies
  

You're 1 in a Melon. Are Too!

Happy Thursday, all and one!

So, lately I'm thinking about moving out of Florida. Why? 'Cuz I'm still suffering from the. worst. allergy. season. evuh! My medication, which I'm not convinced helps, knocks me completely unconscious. No, much more unconscious than normal ...

Anyway, I crawled out of my comfy recliner to create this card for SCS's "Clean and Simple" challenge. This week's challenge, CAS10, calls for a monochromatic card using only white, cream, or vanilla as a neutral . To check out the challenge deets, clicky HERE. To go straight to the challenge gallery, clicky HERE. For the ginormous view of my card, clicky on the photo.

I {heart} this retired stamp set from Stampin' Up ... I'll have to use some of the other stamps from the set so you can ooooohhhhh and aaaahhhhh over them. If you're in a hurry, the set is called "Farm Fresh," it's been retired since 2005, and you can see it HERE. Isn't it cute with a capital "Q?"

Soooooo, Sheila's son, Reid-the-Wild-Child, called me last night to tell me that he knew "the funniest joke in the whole-wide-world," and asked me to post it on my blog. How could I say no?!? IS this the funniest joke in the whole-wide-world?

~A pirate walks into a bar with a paper towel on his head.

~The bartender says, "What's with the paper towel?"

~The pirate says, "Arrrrrrr! I've got a Bounty on me head!"

Thanks for spending part of your busy day with me; you rock!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Papertrey Ink
• Patterned Paper: "Nana's Nursery" by DCWV
  
• Stamp: "Farm Fresh" Set by Stampin' Up!
• Ink: "Sunflower" Dye Ink by Close to My Heart
• Accessories: 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tools: Foam Dimensionals; Cutter Bee Scissors by EK Success
  

Thank You for ... Stuff

Hey, there you are! Happy Thursday ... and happy "Poultry Day," too. Since we're all struggling to make ends meet, why not share the wealth and give a deserving someone the bird today!

ONward Hoarding-Card-Maker's:

Today's card project was created using spring-like stamps from Stampin' Up, a recycled ribbon, some eyelets, and a cute l'il Sizzlit die.

I stamped my images using die ink and my trusty Stamp-A-Ma-Jig. I laid the strips out on my card base, set some eyelets, and wove some 1/8" satin ribbon through the set eyelets.

I stamped my sentiment then cut it out using a Mega Curved Rectangle die and matted it on a larger die-cut. I adhered a card stock swirl die-cut behind my stamped sentiment, and finis!

For all the deets, refer to the supply list below.

This thank you card is going to my dear MIL who kindly knitted me some way kewl kitchen towels. In fact, she carefully wrapped the towels in tissue and tied on the blue satin ribbon you see on this very card. Thanks, Mom!

I showed this card to Sheila yesterday and we naturally got to talking about our mother-in-laws. I'm not including my end of the conversation 'cuz I adore my MIL.

"She's a horrible woman," Sheila stated of her MIL.

"What?!? How can you say that?!?" I asked.

"Okay, she makes her own yogurt. Wanna know how? She puts a pint of milk on the table and stares at it!"

Yikes! I hope Sheila's MIL doesn't read my blog! And now Sheila does too ...

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Indian Corn Blue" by Close to My Heart; "Stampers Select" by Papertrey Ink; "Tangerine Tango" by Stampin' Up
• Stamps: Butterfly from "Hoppy Easter" Set by Stampin' Up; Bird and Sentiment Stamps from "Spring Solitude" Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Indian Corn Blue" Die Ink by Close to My Heart
• Accessories: White 1/8" Eyelets; 1/8" Satin Ribbon
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Provo Craft; Mega Curved Rectangle Dies by Spellbinder's; Sizzlit "Swirl" Die by Sizzix; Crop-A-Dile by We R Memory Makers; Stamp-A-Ma-Jig by EK Success; Dimensionals; Scotch ATG 714