Be My Valentine ... A 15 Minute Project

Happy Stump Day, hampers!

Today's CAS card was created for the Inspiration Journal blog challenge ... to put a heart on it. So I did! I {heart} shopping at Inspiration Emporium so the chance to win a $50.00 Emporium Certificate was too good to miss ... especially with all the new Tim Holtz goodness arriving!

I was also inspired to create this card for CASual-Friday's Clean and Simple "Movie" challenge. My movie inspiration is the 'love-ly' film "Valentine's Day." Didn't see that coming, didcha?!?

For the short list of product I used in creating this card, check out the Card Recipe, below.

Sooooooooo, yesterday Sheila asked me to come over to take a photo of her and her DH for their wedding anniversary.

I set up my tripod and camera in front of the happy couple and noticed that Sheila looked stiff and way too "posed."

"Why don't you lightly drape your arm around Ken's shoulder?" I suggested.

"Deb, if you want Sheila to look natural, why not have her put her hand in my pocket and on my wallet?"

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

~Hugs,


Today's Challenges:

• CAS-ual Fridays: Movie Inspiration (Valentine's Day)
• Inspiration Journal: Put a Heart on It
• Papertake Weekly: Anything Goes
• Tuesday Throwdown: Be My Valentine
  

Card Recipe:

• Card Stock: Kraft Card Stock by PTI
• Stamp: "Be My Valentine" by Stampin' Up (Retired)
• Ink: "Fired Brick" and "Gathered Twigs" Distress Ink by Tim Holtz
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Sizzix; Spellbinder's Oval Die; "Heart Block" Embossing Folder by Provo Craft; Corner Chomper by WRMK's; Blending Tool by Tim Holtz; Foam Dimensionals
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (Top Folded)
  

But You Can Call Me 'Sue' ...

TGiF, Stampers ... welcome to the weekend!

As you may recall ... or not ... I'm guest designing for Sharon Johnson's "Stamp Simply" challenge this month. This card was created for this week's challenge, to use the colors purple and green in your project. For all the colorful challenge deets, or to play along, and we hope you do, clicky HERE. If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use keyword ssnotime126 ... and be sure to post a link on Sharon's blog using Mr. Linky.

Check out the beautiful projects created by the Stamp Simply challenge team:

Barbara Anders: Paper Pursuits;

Jennifer Buck: The Buck Stamps Here;

Jenny Gropp: One Krafty Kat;

Tammy Hershberger: Stamp Happy;

Julie Koerber: Out to Impress;

Janine Orchard: 2bKrafty;

AJ Otto: The Willow Garden;

Deb Saaranen: Dream In Color; and,

Barb Schram: Explore. Dream. Discover.

To create this card, I used the sketch from this week's Splitcoast Stampers sketch challenge, SC267. For all the sketchy deets, including a look-see at the sketch I sorta followed, clicky HERE. To go straight to the SC267 card gallery, clicky HERE. For the ginormous view of my card, clicky THERE on the photo.

I'm also entering the card into SCS's "Way to Use It" challenge, WT257, to use the "Rule of Threes" on your card. For all the odd challenging deets, clicky HERE. To go straight to the WT257 card gallery, clicky HERE.

This card was created with this week's Stampin' Royalty challenge in mind: SR6, to create a Valentine. All of the designers at Stampin' Royalty used this very same stamp set, SU's "I {Heart} Hearts," in their inspiration cards, so I thought I'd do the same. To check out the Stampin' Royalty challenge, or to play along, clicky HERE.

The bazillion other love/Valentine challenges I enter will be listed on the bottom of this post. Just in case you're interested. And for all of the heart-pounding product info, check out the supply list, below.

Soooooooo, as I'm sure I mentioned in the past, my DH is a computer geek technician and, with the ability to remotely access folks' computers, he works on home and office computers from California to Connecticut and from Wisconsin to Texas. The guy gets around cyberspace!

And I ... I am his uber-efficient secretary and receptionist. Hah! While he was out yesterday morning on a service call, he got a call from a customer in Texas.

"I'll be happy to have him return your call, Sir. Whom shall I say called?" I asked.

"This is 'Bubba,' Ma'am. He can reach me at 956-123-4567."

Later, the DH returned the call. A gentlemen answered, "Service. This is Dave."

"Hi. May I speak to Bubba?" the DH asked.

"That's me," he replied. "Dave's my nickname."

Thanks so much for spending part of your busy day with me ... hope your weekend is long and lover-ly!!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Kiwi Kiss" Card Stock (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Patterned Paper: Digital Files by SherrieJD
• Stamps: "I {Heart} Hearts" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Dusty Concord" Dye Ink by Ranger Industries; "Kiwi Kiss" Dye Ink (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: White Quilting Thread
• Tools: Sewing Machine; Stampin' Dimensionals by Stampin' Up; SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

Today's Challenges:

Simon Says Challenge: All You Need is Love
Raise The Bar Challenge: Hearts
Crazy 4 Challenges: Valentine
My Time to Craft Challenge: Hearts & Kisses
Stamp With Fun Challenge: Hearts
Die-Cut Dreams Challenge: Have a Heart
Delightful Sketches Challenge: Love

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.

Ohhhhhhhh, "Innuendo" ...

Happy Stump Day, Hampers! This week is flyin' by, huh?

Today's card project was created for the Clean & Simple "Fall to Layout" sketch challenge, FTL76. For a look-see at the clean and simple sketch I followed, clicky HERE.

For my color palette, I used the color challenge from the Play Date Cafe Challenge, PDCC14. For all the colorful challenge deets, clicky HERE.

Today's card qualifies for the Creative Belli Challenge #84, to use ribbon on your project. Clicky HERE to check out all the challenging deets. And, the card also qualifies for the Pile It On Challenge, to use non-winter colors. Clicky HERE to check out the Pile It On Challenge blog. Finally, I've entered the card in the Dutch Dare Card Challenge, DDCC#70, "Summer in Winter." Clicky HERE to visit the Dutch Dare Card Challenge blog.

I used a plethora of paper scraps for this card: the orange bit of paper is from Stampin' Up, the lilac and rosy red scraps are from Daisy D's, and the green is from an unknown digital file.

My font-a-licious sentiment is from the new Stampin' Up set, Well Scripted, available in the Occasions Mini Catalog. This set is getting a real workout this month ... and I haven't even inked up the other five stamps! I stamped the image in fabulous-fun-flirty "Melon Mambo" dye ink ... my new favorite ink color.

For the skinny on all the other product I used to create this card, check out the supply list, below.

Soooooooo, yesterday the DH and Sheila's DH, Ken, went on a fishing trip with Sheila's across-the-canal neighbor, Bill. Since I needed to hang-out with Sheila, I drove the DH and all his fishing gear over to Sheila's.

When Bill arrived, boat in tow, to pick up the guys and their mountain of fishing crap, I couldn't help but notice the name of the boat: "Innuendo." I thought that was pretty cool ...

After the guys left, and failing to divine some deep, hidden meaning, I asked Sheila if she knew how Bill had come up with that name.

"'Innuendo?' Oh," she answered, "his wife works for a proctologist."

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

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Whisper White" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Various Scraps from Stampin' Up, Daisy D's, and an Unknown Digital File
• Stamp: Sentiment from "Well Scripted" Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Melon Mambo" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; 1" Square Die; Small Heart Punch by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

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.

Very Sketchy ...

Happy Tuesday, Stampers!

Today's card project was created for the Stampin' Royalty sketch challenge, SR#4. For all the challenging deets, including a look at the sketch I followed, clicky HERE.

This card also qualifies for the vintage challenge at "If the Shoe Fits." Clicky HERE to check out all the challenging deets. And the 'hearts' challenge at "Hand Full of Stamps." Go HERE to check out all the "Hand Full ..." challenge deets. And I had to enter the card in "The Corrosive Challenge Blog" challenge ... just 'cuz I love the name of their blog!

With the exception of the vintage dictionary page, all the patterned paper on this card was created with digital files. The grungy tag is from my stash as is the walnut ink-stained string.

I used a stamp from SU's new I {Heart} Hearts stamp set, layering the image three times on the tag for some dimension. I got a little carried away with the whole heart thing and added a row across the bottom of card. Easy-peasy and very sketchy!

For the rest of the a-mazing product info, check out the supply list below.

Soooooo, on Sunday Sheila and I delivered her Mom to Palm Beach International Airport for her return flight home to Georgia, the Just-Peachy State.

Mrs. L. is a nervous flyer at best and begged us to go stay and wait with her for her flight to be called. We decided to hop into a bar and have a drink. Sheila's Mom decided to have a couple more than two ... she calls it "flight insurance."

As we were leaving the lounge, a uniformed flight attendant smiled and chatted her up a bit. Mrs. L. decided to take the opportunity to say to the flight attendant, "I'm so nervous about flying today. Tell me, Dear, do these things crash very often?"

To which the attendant replied, "No, Ma'am ... just once."

Reassuring, no?

Thanks so much for stopping by ... have a great day!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Kraft Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Patterned Paper: Various Digital Paper Files
• Other Paper: Vintage (circa 1950) Dictionary Page; Walnut Ink-Stained Tag
• Stamp: Heart Images from "I {Heart} Hearts Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
  
• Ink: "Real Red" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up; Distress Ink by Ranger
  
• Accessories: 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon in "Real Red" by Stampin' Up; Walnut-Ink Stained Cotton String
• Tools: Scallop Edge Border Punch by Stampin' Up; Small Heart Punch by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

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.

The Color Red. And Hearts.

Happy TGiF!

Today's card project was created for the Caardvarks "Red Heart" challenge to use the color red. And hearts. For all the challenging deets, clicky HERE.

This card also qualifies for this week's Stamp Simply card challenge ... to use the color red. And hearts. For the 4-1-1 on the Stamp Simply challenge, clicky HERE.

Because I used digital paper on this card, the project qualifies for the Fab 'n' Funky Challenge #8, to use a digital image or sentiment. For all the digi-deets, clicky HERE.

My card uses stamps from two drastically different Stampin' Up sets, but I think they look pretty neat together. The patterned paper is a digital file and I created a beaded stickpin to attach to my yummy satin ribbon.

For the rest of the lovely product info, check out the supply list, below.

Soooooooo, yesterday afternoon I was hangin' out with Sheila when Reid-the-Wild-Child came home from school.

"Guess what?!?" Reid asked us.

"What?" we answered.

"I learned how to make babies today in school!"

Sheila flipped. I haven't seen her face go so red since ... at least Monday!

"What? What?!? I'm callin' that school this instant and readin' them the riot act. How dare they?!?"

"So, Reid, tell me, what did you learn about makin' babies?" I asked.

"Oh, it's easy, Aunty: all you do is drop the 'y' and add 'i e s.'" he replied.

Oh, sure, we knew that.

Thanks so much for stopping by today ... have a great weekend!

• Card Stock: "Chocolate Chip," "Real Red," and "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Patterned Paper: Digital File from My Sweet Tater
  
• Stamps: Tree from "Branch Out" Stamp Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up; Hearts from "I {Heart} Hearts Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Chocolate Chip" and "Real Red" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: "Chocolate Chip" Satin Ribbon by Stampin' Up; Stickpin and Beads from Stash
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rectangular Die; Small Heart Punch by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

Let the Games Begin!

Happy Thursday, race fans!

Today's super-simple card project was created for the "Stamptacular Sunday Challenge," #43, to create a 'pop-up' card. I decided to create my card using the uber-popular "Easel" card format.

For all the challenging deets, or to join in on the fun, clicky HERE to visit the Stamptacular Sunday Challenge blog.

If you've been in a coma ... or abducted by aliens ... and haven't heard about this quick and easy technique, here's a quick tutorial:

1. Score a 4" x 8" piece of card stock at 4" and again at 6";
2. Fold on score lines;
3. Cut a 4" x 4" square of card stock;
4. Cut patterned paper into two 3 7/8" x 3 7/8" squares (you can eyeball this - you just want to create a l'il margin ... or not, your choice);
5. Glue one 3 7/8" x 3 7/8" square of patterned paper to the bottom front of the scored and folded 4" x 8" card stock;
6. Adhere the remaining 3 7/8" x 3 7/8" piece of patterned paper to the 4" x 4" piece of card stock;
7. Adhere the 4" x 4" piece to the front fold even with the bottom edge of the card stock;
8. Adhere a brad, button, or other raised thingie to the bottom to create a "stop";
9. Embellish with stamped images, ribbons, flowers, punchies, stitching, or whatever your heart desires; and,
10. You're done!

These are really easy to assembly-line and they fold up perfectly for mailing in a regular A2 envelope. These cards are so easy to make that with just a little help ... especially in the cutting department ... the kid-lettes can make some too!

For all the eye-popping product info, check out the supply list below.

Sooooooooo, Sheila and I were talking yesterday about how addictive games on the Internet can be.

"Oh, please, I know. I've been playing them w-a-y too much," Sheila said.

"What makes you say that?" I asked.

"Well, right before I start dreaming at night, a blue strip appears with the words 'Loading ... Please wait.'"

Oooohhhhhh. Well, maybe she is playing 'em too much ...

Thanks so much for stopping by today ... have a great day!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Rose Red" and "Very Vanilla" Card Stock by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Cosmo Cricket
• Stamp: "Holiday Best" Hostess Stamp Set by Stampin' Up
• Ink: "Rose Red" Dye Ink
• Accessories: 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon; DMC Embroidery Floss; Heart Clip-Thingy; Clear Button by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Spellbinders Dies; Scallop Trim Border Punch by Stampin' Up (Free with $50.00 Purchase!); Stampin' Dimensionals; SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up

We Do Chicken Right!

Happy Stump Day, Hampers!

Today's card project was created for no good reason ... but I s'pose it would be appropriate to use for Valentine's Day or as an anniversary card. No worries, I'll get rid of it somehow!

The card DOES qualify for a challenge or three though! Little Red Wagon's challenge today is to use hearts. You can check out this challenge HERE. This week's Crazy 4 Challenges challenge is to use a pink color scheme; you can read all those deets, HERE. Finally, the Crafty Cardmakers challenge this week is Hearts and Romance. For all the challenging deets for this challenge, clicky HERE.

I stamped my image in fabulous-fun-flirty "Melon Mambo" dye ink, die-cut it, triple matted it, punched a scallop trim border, added some ribbon, and attached a simple knot bow. Easy-peasy and ready to serve in just 15 Minutes!

For the 4-1-1 on all the exciting products I used, check out the supply list, below.

Sooooooooooo, yesterday afternoon Sheila and I teamed up to do a bunch of errands. You know, the usual bank-dry-cleaner-grocery-store run. A bonus: Sheila drove, so I saved gas!

As we were heading for home, Sheila decided to stop and pick up a bucket of chicken for dinner. I stayed in the car and while waiting, a mutual friend of ours spotted me and toddled over to yakkity-yak.

We were going on and on and only noticed Sheila when she got in the car. And then Sheila had to get all caught up with our friend, too. Twenty minutes later, we drove off and headed for home.

We were {this close} to home when a State Trooper came flyin' up behind us. He flashed on those annoying lights and squawked his ear-splitting siren at us ... the universal signals for "pull over, you're about to get a very expensive ticket."

The State Trooper walks up to the driver's side, bends down, and hands Sheila a bucket of chicken. I think, 'OMG, she must she must have put the bucket on the roof of her car and forgot about it!'

But Sheila says:

"Oh, no thanks, Officer, I just bought some."

Thanks so much for swinging by today!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Chocolate Chip," "Melon Mambo," and "Very Vanilla" Card Stocks by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Stampin' Up (Retired)
• Stamp: Club Scrap
• Ink: "Melon Mambo" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: "Chocolate Chip" Grosgrain Ribbon by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rectangular Die; Corner Chomper; Mini-Glue Dots; Scallop Trim Border Punch by Stampin' Up; Perfect Layers (Retired) by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals by Stampin' Up; SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
  

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.

Hey! Who Wants a Sandwich?

Happy Tuesday, race fans!

Today's card project was created for SCS's Sketch Challenge, SC264. For all the challenging deets, including a look at the sketch I followed, clicky HERE. To go straight to the SC264 card gallery, clicky HERE. For the ginormous view of my card, clicky anywhere on the photo.

I used digital files to create the patterned paper on this card and a font-a-licious rubber stamp that my BFF sent me long-time-ago.

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

Soooooooo, on Saturday night, Sheila and I, together with our respective DH's, went to a l'il meet and greet at Jill's. For irregular readers of my blog ... and you know who you are ... Jill is Sheila's psychotic younger sister.

When we last left Jill, it was on the heels of her infamous "Rolls Royce" date. Since that 'terrible' night, she's been seeing Jack. According to Jill, Jack is very bright, terribly funny, and drop-dead gorgeous. All this, PLUS he has the soul of a poet ... and miracle of miracles, the guy actually has a job!

On Saturday night we were summoned to Jill's to meet Jack ... you know, 'cuz he might be The One. Tee, hee ... Jack and Jill; now that's poetic!

We arrived and after the obligatory air kisses, introductions, and cold drinks, Sheila and I were dragged into a corner by Jill.

"What do you think, isn't he dreamy?!?"

"Oh, dreamy. Just dreamy." Sheila replied.

"So, please, would you two go talk to him and make him feel welcome? The guys are kinda ignoring him."

So Sheila and I engaged Dreamy Jack in small talk. After the "whaddya do, who do ya know's," the conversation lagged for a bit. But Dreamy Jack grabbed the ball and ran with it:

"So. Ladies, has this ever happened to you? You're like hungry, so you make a sandwich. And then, ya know, you get tired, so you put the sandwich down in front of you and then you put your head down and like, fall asleep."

"And then, when you wake up, the sandwich is like stuck to your forehead, but you're so out of it that you don't realize it. So, then, you like, go make yourself another sandwich."

We both just stood there, dumbstruck.

"Yeah," he continued. "I go through bread like crazy."

And at that very moment, Jill called from the kitchen, "Hey! Who wants a sandwich?"

Eeewwwwwwwww!

Thanks for stopping by today! May all your sandwiches be headless ... and vice versa.

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Real Red by Stampin' Up
• Patterned Paper: Digital
• Stamp: Inkadinkado
• Ink: Real Red Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accesories: Grosgrain Ribbon by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals by Stampin' Up; SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Die; Small Heart Punch by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"
  

If you have any questions about Stampin' Up products or stamping techniques, feel free to contact me HERE.

A Hybrid Valentine: Saving Energy One Card at a Time ...

Happy Stump Day, Hampers!

Today's hybrid card project was created for SCS's Sketch Challenge, SC263. For all the challenging deets, including a look at the sketch I followed, clicky HERE. To go straight to the SC263 card gallery, clicky HERE. To see the ginormous view of my card, clicky THERE on the photo.

This sketch is a good one and I really enjoyed using it this week. It looks like you did a lot of fussing with the card, but you didn't. Or is that just me? Either way, I'll definitely use this layout again.

I used digital files to create the patterned paper and inked up two of my most-favorite-new-stamps, added some ribbon, a tiny tag, and three l'il rosy-red bling-dots. Easy-peasy and saves energy, too ... I think. Does it?

For all the half-natural, homemade goodness, check out the supply list, below.

Soooooooooo, yesterday I was hangin' out with Sheila and her sister, Jill. Jill was paging through an old issue of Cosmopolitan ... she likes to take the quizzes. And oh! she just "adores" their "fact-finding." To wit:

"So listen to this: according to Cosmo, men say the first thing that they notice about a woman is their eyes." Jill reported.

"Oh, yeah?" Sheila countered, "And I say the first thing that women notice about men is that they're a bunch of liars."

Check. Mate.

Thanks so much for swingin' by today; I really appreciate it!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Whisper White" by Stampin' Up
• Patterned Paper: Digital, Unknown
• Stamps: "Love You Much" Sentiment Stamp from "Well Scripted" Stamp Set (Page 19, Occasions Mini-Catalog), by Stampin' Up; "Love" Sentiment from "Tiny Tags" Stamp Set (Page 28, Occasions Mini-Catalog), by Stampin' Up
• Dye Ink: Stampin' Up
  
• Accessories: Grosgrain Ribbon by Stampin' Up; Rose Red Flat-Back Pearls; Embroidery Floss
  
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Oval Dies; Medium Jewelry Tag (Page 11, Occasions Mini-Catalog) by Stampin' Up; Doily Border Punch; Stampin' Dimensionals by Stampin' Up; SNAIL Adhesive by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size; 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

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.

Eat This Card ...

Happy Monday, Stampers ... and a happy Martin Luther King Day to you, too! Hope this means you have the day off ...

Today's uber-bright card project was created for the Pals Paper Arts Inspiration Challenge, PPA25. For all the challenging deets, or to play along, clicky HERE.

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

Soooooooooo, this weekend I Wild-Child-sat so that Sheila and her DH could attend the annual Museum Gala. Dressy Balls are not my thing ... neither is babysitting Reid for that matter. But I'd rather do the latter than the former. And so I did.

The Wild-Child was jabbering away like a tree monkey when Sheila and Ken entered the room, all dressed up and spiffy-lookin'.

When Reid saw Ken in his really-good suit, he piped up, "Daddy, you shouldn't wear that suit."

"And why not, Kiddo?"

"'Cuz you always have a bad headache the next morning after wearing that suit!"

See that? They do notice ...

Thanks so much for visiting today ... have a great day!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Unknown, Uber-Bright Scraps
• Stamps: Candy Stack, Unknown (Unmounted); Sentiment, PTI
• Ink: Memento "Tuxedo Black" Dye Ink; "Chocolate Chip" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Color Medium: Copic Markers
• Accessories: 5/8" Satin Ribbon; Vintage Buttons; Embroidery Floss
• Tools: Die Cut Machine; Dies; Loop Edge Border Punch; Stampin' Dimensionals and SNAIL Adhesive, both by Stampin' Up
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"

B Mine ... and No One Gets Hurt

Happy Monday, Stampers. Hope your weekend was fantabulous!

Today's 15 Minute card project was created for SCS's Clean and Simple Challenge, "Valentines," CAS48. Never saw that comin' didcha?!? For all the Valentine-type deets, clicky HERE. To go straight to the CAS48 card gallery, clicky HERE.

I also participated in Stamping 411's Color Challenge #105 for my color combination. This week's color challenge was to create a kid's card ... or one that kids could easily create ... using this fab color combination. I really love this particular color scheme ... so bright and happy ... perfect for a cold, gray winter's day ... or a cold, gray kid! For the 411 on the Color Challenge, clicky HERE.

I stamped the "B," die-cut it, then double mounted the image on card stock. I stamped "Mine," then added three lengths of 1/4" grosgrain ribbon, and finis! Easy-peasy ... and ready to serve in just 15 Minutes!

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

Sooooooooo, this year Sheila's DH decided that he needed to eat healthier ... and have breakfast every morning no-matter-what.

Since this was Ken's first weekend home since the New Year, the DH and I couldn't wait to see how his new diet was going. We got our chance this weekend:

"How's the breakfast thing going?" I asked Ken.

"Well, I'm doing oatmeal and I hope I develop a taste for the stuff. It sure goes down rough!"

"Really?" Sheila asked, "how long are you cooking it?"

"Oh, are you supposed to cook it?" he asked.

Just between you and me, I happen to think this was a really cagey move on Ken's part to get Sheila to get up with him and cook him his breakfast every morning. If so, it's working!

Thanks so much for swingin' by to visit today!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Stampin' Up
• Stamps: All Stamps from "Just B" Set (Retired) by Stampin' Up
• Ink: Stampin' Up Dye Ink
• Accessories: 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Rectangle Die; Perfect Layers Tool (Retired) by Stampin' Up; Stamp-a-Ma-Jig by Stampin' Up; Stampin' Dimensionals; SNAIL Adhesive
• Finished Size: 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"
  

Celebrate Love ... A Blog Challenge Entry

So, happy "National Plum Pudding Day!" And what the heck is plum pudding, anyway? Well, if you find out, please let me know too. I certainly don't want to miss out on a Holiday that includes dessert.

ONward Hoarding-Card-Makers:

Today's super-simple card was created for The Cuttlebug Spot's "Celebrate Love" challenge. You can visit the blog, and see all the challenge deets, HERE.

To create my background, I used the "LetterPress" technique, inking up the inside of the embossing folder with ink, then running it through the 'Bug with card stock.

I stamped my sentiment with hybrid ink, cut it out with a Nestie, then mounted it to my prepared background.

I added a MS bird punchie and finis! Easy-peasy and ready to serve in just ... oh, let's say 30 minutes!

So, yesterday, Sheila called to tell me her barn was on fire. Why she called me before she called the Fire Department, I'll never know ... but she did.

Once the fire was out, she called the insurance company ... on speaker phone:

"We had that barn insured for fifty thousand, and I want my money."

The agent replied, "Hold on just a minute, Sheila. Insurance doesn't work quite like that. We will ascertain the value of what was insured and provide you with a new barn of comparable worth."

There was a long pause ... then Sheila said, "Then I'd like to cancel the policy on my husband."

I. Kid. You. Not.

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Bazzill Basics; Stampers Select by Papertrey Ink
• Stamp: Unknown (Unmounted)
• Ink: "L'Amore Red" Palette Hybrid by Stewart Superior
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine by Provo Craft; Large Rectangular Die by Spellbinder's; "Heart Block" Cuttlebug Embossing Folder; Bird Punch by Martha Stewart; Dimensionals

Hugs & Kisses ...

Soooo, happy "Umbrella Day!" Hey, I don't write 'em, I just repeat 'em. Now, be sure to poke someone with your umbrella today, okeedokee?!?

Today's last-minute Valentine was created super-fast. Really! I stamped the "Lace Heart" stamp on Stamper's Select card stock with "Riding Hood Red" dye ink, and cut it out trimming closely.

The "Kisses" sentiment was stamped with Versamark, embossed with Tsukineko Detail Embossing Powder, and also cut out.

I created the ampersand and "Hugs" text with the 'Bug "Olivia" die set, punched the lacy trim with MS's "Doily Lace" border punch, and created a scallop border with Kraft card stock and my slit punch. I used the Crop-a-Dile to set nine white eyelets in the scallop border and finis!

Soooooo on Sunday, Sheila and I decided to go thrift-store shopping. In one store, we were browsing through a display of country-style musical instruments.

After looking over the flutes, dulcimers, and recorders, Sheila picked up a shiny, one-stringed instrument she took to be a mouth harp. She put it to her lips and, much to my amazement, twanged a few notes on it.

After watching from a distance, a clerk walked up and said, "I hate to tell you this, Honey, but you're tryin' to play a cheese slicer."

I. Kid. You. Not!

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: "Riding Hood Red" by Stampin' Up; Kraft and White by Papertrey Ink
• Stamps: "Lacy Heart" by Stampin' Up; "Kisses" by Inkadinkado
• Ink: Versamark Watermark Ink; "Riding Hood Red" Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: White Eyelets
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Cuttlebug "Olivia" Alphabet Dies; Martha Stewart "Doily Lace" Border Punch; Slit Punch by Stampin' Up; Crop-a-Dile by We R Memory Keepers; Quicky Glue Pen by Sakura; Cutter Bee Scissors; Dimensionals

Awwwww, Love Birds!

Hey, there you are! So today is "Punch the Clock" Day ... and "Thomas Crapper Day." I decided I wouldn't touch Crapper Day, and punched the clock instead. Turns out it might have been better to celebrate Thomas Crapper Day as I've broken four small bones in my right hand ... and a clock. Crapper ...

ONward H-C-M's:

Today's 15 Minute card project was created super-fast using a dollar stamp from Michaels and a scrap of card stock that I ran through the 'Bug in the "Heart Blocks" folder. The card stock, from Close to My Heart, has a loverly white core ... perfect for sanding. So I did. You can get this kewl card stock HERE.

My dollar stamp was inked with Chocolate Chip dye ink, stamped and then paper pieced on to Vintage Cream card stock. I created a l'il tag with my Making Memories tag maker, added some twill and grosgrain ribbon, some embroidery floss, and three matching brads from CTMH.

Finally, I added some dots of white paint to the birdies using a Sharpie Paint Pen.

Easy-peasy and ready to serve in just 15 Minutes!

BAWDY ALERT:

Warning: the following Sheila story is rated "R." If you are easily offended, or dislike sexual innuendo, please exit now.

Soooooo, I was hangin' around Sheila's kitchen yesterday when her DH strolled in the door carrying a bag full of bread.

"What on earth possessed you to buy so many loaves of dark rye bread?" Sheila asked.

"Well, Marty told me that since he started eating dark rye bread three times a day he can run 5 miles, do a full days worth of heavy labor, then make passionate love to his wife for hours at a time!"

"FOUR loaves!" Sheila exclaimed, "it'll get hard, you idiot!"

"How does everyone know about this stuff but me?" he sighed.

Give it a minute; it'll grow on you ...

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Close to My Heart; Papertrey Ink
• Designer Paper: NONE. Again
• Stamp: "Love Birds" by studio g
• Ink: Chocolate Chip Dye Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Twill Ribbon; Grosgrain Ribbon; DMC Embroidery Floss; Brads by Close to My Heart; Metal Edge Tag by Making Memories
• Tools: Die Cut Machine; "Heart Blocks" Embossing Folder by Provo Craft; Corner Rounder Punch; 1/4" Circle Punch by Stampin' Up; Sharpie Paint Pen; Sanding Block

An All-Australian Valentine

So, being that it's "Australia Day" today, I thought I'd make a Valentine in honor of Australia. I used colors from the Australian flag ... well, not the Kraft card stock ... or the chocolate brown ... that's in honor of chocolate ... but otherwise, it's 100% Australian ... and, as it turns out, 100% American. How 'bout that; a patriotic, multi-national Valentine! For a larger look-see, just clicky on the photo.

I don't know about you, but I'm gettin' mighty sick of making Valentines. I can't seem to stop, though. It's a problem ... I think I need a 12-step program.

ONward Hoarding-Card-Makers:

Today's card project was created using this cute stamp from All Night Media ... and lots of distressed card stock. There's something very satisfying about shredding card stock ... or is that just me? I also used grosgrain ribbon and rope twine from Stampin' Up. But, as usual, no designer paper.

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

So, Sheila and I decided to do some thrift store shopping this weekend. We're happily yakkin' away when we notice a police car on our tail, lights flashing, and siren blaring.

Sheila pulls over and while she waited for the policeman to get out of his car, she said to me, "Watch this ... it works every time."

The officer leaned in to the car and told Sheila that he'd clocked her doing 60 in a 45 mph zone and asked for her name.

Sheila said, "I am Mrs. Ladislav Abdulkhashim Zybkcicraznovskaya from the Republic of Uzbekistan here visiting my daughter."

I swear to God that the cop put away his summons book and pen, and said,"Well, ummm, okay, but don't let me catch you speeding again." And off we went, ticket-free.

Seriously; try it!

~cHeERS!

• Card Stock: Bazzill Basics; Papertrey Ink; Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: NONE ... again.
• Stamp: Lips by All Night Media; Sentiment by Close to My Heart
• Ink: "Real Red" by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Grosgrain Ribbon and Rope Twine by Stampin' Up
• Tools: Distressing Tool, including Scissors and Fingernails

What? This Old (Lookin') Thing?

Hey, there you are! So happy "National Handwriting Day," "National Pie Day," and "Measure Your Feet Day." I can't decide which I'll celebrate; I suffer from option paralysis. It's a rare medical condition but with proper medication, it's pretty much under control now ...

ONward Hoarding Card Makers:

Today's vintage-inspired card project was created for my V-day stash using some really vintage ephemera from a book published in 1897. I created the large scallops along the edge of this old sheet of paper using a slit punch. For a ginormous view, just clicky on my photo.

I created some really sloppy primitive stitches using linen twine ... now this is the reason I don't do cross-stitch!

For all the deets, check my Supply List, below.

Soooooo, yesterday Sheila and I got up early to go to the Farmer's Market. On the way, we decided to stop at a diner for a quick breakfast.

Our waitress brought us coffee and asked if we'd like to try their "Unique Breakfast."

"What's your Unique Breakfast?" Sheila asked.

"Baked tongue of chicken!" she proudly replied.

"Baked tongue of chicken? Baked tongue of chicken! Do you have any idea how disgusting that is? I would never even consider eating anything that came out of a chicken's mouth!" Sheila fumed.

"Okay, okay, what would you like then?" the waitress said."

"Just bring me some scrambled eggs," Sheila replied.

It'll grow on you ...

~Hugs,

• Card Stock: Papertrey Ink; Stampin' Up
• Stamps: "Stitched" Backgrounder from Stampin' Up; "Heart" by U.B. Stampin
• Ink: "Riding Hood Red" by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Linen Twine; Vintage Ephemera, Personal Collection
• Tools: Edge Distresser; Making Memories Paper Piercing Tool; Slit Punch by Stampin' Up

I Heart Felt Hearts ... a 15 Minute Project

Hey, there you are! So today is "National Hugging Day" and, as in years past, I plan on huggin' everyone who crosses my path today. Whether they like it or not ...

I'll confess that last year on National Hugging Day I met with some very mixed reviews. Oh. And I got arrested too. But, hey, how was I s'posed to know that the Brink's Security guy was so stinkin' paranoid?!?

ONward H-C-M's:

Today's Valentine's Day card was created in a New-York-Minute using four 1 5/8" square punchies, some DP from Cosmo Cricket's "Hey, Sugar" collection, some die-cut hearts, felt, and vintage buttons. As always, you can clicky on the photo for the ginormous view.

The sentiment, from Close to My Heart, available HERE, was stamped in Rose Red dye ink on SU card stock, then die cut using a Nesties label die.

I added some CTMH brads and finis! Easy-peasy and ready to serve in just 15 Minutes!

Soooooooooo, yesterday Sheila and I popped into our local Publix-Where-Shopping-is-a-Pleasure to pick up a few things.

In the Produce department, Sheila cornered stopped an employee and said, "These vegetables ... they're for my husband. Have they been sprayed with any poisonous chemicals?"

The produce guy looked her straight in the eye and said,"No, Ma'am; you'll have to do that yourself."

Seriously! No, r-e-a-l-l-y!!

~cHeERS,

• Card Stock: Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: Cosmo Cricket
• Stamp: "Say it in Style" by Close to My Heart
• Ink: "Rose Red" Die Ink by Stampin' Up
• Accessories: Vintage Buttons; DMC Embroidery Floss; Brads; Felt; Dimensionals
• Tools: 1 5/8" Square Punch by McGill; Die-Cut Machine; Nestabilities Dies

Be Mine ... Or I'll Drive A Small Tree Thru Your Heart

Now that I have your attention, let me wish you an exceedingly wonderful "National Buttercrunch Day." I don't know about you, but any time my butter crunches I throw it out ... but that's just me.

ONward H-C-M's:

Today's Valentine was created using this swirly tree stamp from Pink Cat Studio. I stamped it twice with "Twilight" dye ink, then cut them out and layered 'em ... but you already knew that didn't you Miss Smarty-Pants?!?

The sentiment is from Close to My Heart's "Say It in Style" stamp set and I really-and-truly love this set of stamps. I've yet to find an occasion where I couldn't use this set ... but I'll betcha you can come up with a few if you try, lol. I have an extra set (don't ask), available for sale in my eBay store ... you can see it HERE.

For the rest of the deets, check out my Supply List, below.

So, Sheila's Sunday School Class had an Open House this past weekend. Terrified that no one would show up, she asked the DH and I to make an appearance. Happily, about a dozen parents showed up so Sheila dismissed us. But not before this:

"What was Jesus' mother's name?" Sheila asked her class of five and six year olds.

"Mary." a cute little girl answered.

"And who knows what Jesus' father's name was?" Sheila continued.

A little boy eagerly answered, "Verge."

Confused, (as usual), Sheila asked, "Where did you get that, Kevin?"

"From you, Miss Sheila. You're always talkin' about Verge 'n' Mary!"

Seriously.

~cHeERS,

• Card Stock: Blue Bayou, Pink Pirouette by Stampin' Up; Vintage Cream by PTI
• Designer Paper: "Two Scoops" by BasicGrey
• Stamps: Sentiment by Close to My Heart; Tree by Pink Cat Studio
• Ink: "Twilight" Dye Ink by Close to My Heart
• Accessories: Ribbon by Martha Stewart; Heart Stickie-Thingies, Unknown; Jump Ring
• Tools: Die-Cut Machine; Nestabilities Square Rectangle Die; Cuttlebug "Charms" Die; Photo Corner Punch by Stampin' Up; Border Punch by Fiskars; Dimensionals

My Eyes, My Eyes!

WoWzA, bright, huh?!? Don't stare at this too long ... I wouldn't want you to go blind or anything. If you want ... just for a second ... you can clicky on the photo for a ginormous view.

Today's card project was inspired by The Cat's Pajama's blog challenge to use the colors teal, pumpkin, and olive. I knew goin' in that I wouldn't finish this project in time to enter the challenge, but I was intrigued by the color combination. So, tell me, when's the last time you saw a Valentine in these colors? Never ... see, I knew you were gonna say that!

I gave the MS Doily Lace border punch a work-out creating these borders ... but what's a Valentine without paper doilies? For all the gory details, check out my Supply List, below.

So, this weekend I discovered that Sheila has a lifesaving tool in her car. It's designed to cut through a seat belt if she gets trapped.

She keeps it in the trunk.

Seriously!

~cHeERS,

• Card Stock: "Blue Bayou," and "Tangerine Tango" by Stampin' Up
• Designer Paper: "Cogsmo" by Cosmo Cricket
• Stamps: "Hearts & Flowers" by Autumn Leaves, Sentiment by Verve Visual
• Inks: "Twilight" Die Ink by Close to My Heart; "Cocoa" Fluid Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
• Accessories: Brads by Close to My Heart; Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tools: Dimensionals; 1/4" Circle Punch by Stampin' Up; "Doily Lace" Border Punch by Martha Stewart

A No-Stamping, Flap-Fold, Giant Valentine

Hey, there you are, hope you're having a very happy "Hat Day."

Don't tell law-enforcement personnel anyone, but Sheila and I have a way-kewl day planned! We're gonna spend the afternoon drinking Margaritas, snackin' on nachos, smokin' Mexican cigarettes, and doin' the Mexican Hat Dance ... all whilst dressed in traditional Mexican garb. We do this every week "Hat Day," so we're pretty good at the drinking Hat Dance now. I'll tell ya, these are the days to remember ... if possible.

ONward H-C-M's:

Today's super-simple, plain-Jane card project was created based on a BasicGrey tutorial. I simply added some extra layers ... but no brads, buttons, charms, faux gemstones, or ribbons. Nope, not one dang thing to make it even the tiniest bit interesting!

The flap is held in place with two hidden BasicGrey magnetic snaps. Here's a photo of the flap unflapped:


The text and flourishes are rub-ons ... pretty sneaky, huh?!? Oh, and if any one's interested in the destructions, lemme me know and I'll forward 'em on to you. Better ask tomorrow, though ... see above.

So, yesterday I had to go into the Village to do some errands, including some banking.

I gave the teller my deposit and she handed me my change. While I was walking out of the bank, I counted my change ... and quickly headed back to the same cashier.

"Excuse me," I said, "you've given me the wrong change."

"I'm sorry Ma'am, but you'd already stepped away from the counter," said Welcome-to-Bank-of-America-My-Name-is-Lucy-How-Can-I-Help-You. "We don't make corrections after you leave. I'm sorry but there's nothing I can do about it now. That's the policy of this bank."

"Ummm, well ... okay," I answered, "I just thought you'd like to know that you gave me an extra twenty. Bye now!"

Was that so wrong?!?

~cHeERS,

• Card Stock: Papertrey Ink
• Designer Paper: K&Company
• Accessories: Rub-On's (Manufacturer Unknown); BasicGrey Magnetic Snaps
• Tools: Fiskars Decorative Edge Scissors