Happy Holidays!!

Have a wonderful, safe and healthy Christmas....and a very Happy New Year!

I won't be posting for a few days, as I'm heading down to my folk's in Florida. My mom is having some health issues and my dad is feeling all alone. So, I'm all packed (taking along the remnants of my holiday cards....which still are NOT done!), and heading down. Leaving behind the hubby and kids....so, it's going to be a different kind of Christmas than I had planned this year.

As this year comes to a close, I want to thank all of you who visit for stopping by! Hopefully, you'll pop in from time to time, and enjoy your time here. Watch for lots of great things in the new year....remember, the new catalog is only a few days away!

Barbara

Still More Gifts......

Found these tins at Specialty Bottle as well.....AND these are filled with more of my home-made Christmas Toffee*. (It really isn't Christmas Toffee.....but it's the only time of the year that I make it!!) These tins are a bit larger than the small square tins. They will be given to friends and neighbors.

These treat cans feature last year's designer paper (and YES, I still have more!!), Burgundy Organdy Ribbon (also retired), and the Sweet Sampler set.....all items are from SU!

*See recipe below.

Another Gift

Do you have a Christmas Tree Shop near you? It is just the BEST place to find wonderful treasures!! Everything is so reasonable.....I can't seem to come out of that store without spending at least $75, but for that, I come out with a few bags full of stuff! (They don't have just Christmas things.)

So, that is where this little set came from. For just $3.99, I purchased this stationery set: a fabric covered box with 16 notecards and envelopes inside. Sadly, the batch was well picked over and I was only able to buy 2 of these sets.....all the ones I left behind were marked in some way.

Photo #1 is the "before" picture.
Photo #2 is the outside of the "after," or "transformed" photo. (The color changed in the photo for some reason....still closely matches Mellow Moss.)
Photo #3 is the a photo of the altered notecards and inside of the stationery box.

The finished gift set features the 2 different sets of notecards. One set was simply stamped with the bird from Touch of Nature in Mellow Moss; and the second set was covered with Brocade Background Designer Paper* and stamped with Baroque Motifs in Whisper White Craft Ink. The beautiful Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon** wraps the lid and a little charm from my stash was added.

So, what do you think? Doesn't look like I purchased it for $3.99, does it?!!

*Background Designer Paper will retire with the new catalog due out on January 1, 2008
**Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon is still available through the Wrap It Up Promotion going on now, through December 31.

More Christmas Gifts

Just finished these up last night! I was "snowed" in.....we're getting a Nor'easter. Not a lot of snow, mostly ice and rain. Ugly, messy, YUK! My northern friends are getting all the snow, I think! Anyway, since we stayed in last night, I had the opportunity to finish these up.

I purchased these cute little tins from Specialty Bottle, but Nicole Heady also sells them on her site. These are just 4 of the 12 that I wrapped in last year's designer paper and ribbon. There are 4 different paper designs and I made 3 of each......one each for my co-workers. The tags are CASED from TexasGrammy. (Thanks, Bev!) I'm really very happy with the way they all came out. Gee, I miss Cranberry Crisp and Taken with Thyme....last year's "In Colors." They were just perfect for Christmas!

Each tin was filled with my world famous, homemade Toffee. OK! Maybe it isn't "world famous," but it's something that I make every year and give away as gifts. AND each year, I have those same people looking for it again and again. (See recipe below.)

NOTE: The Toffee was placed into SU Medium-sized Cello Bags and then placed inside the tin.

To make the Toffee, you'll need a non-stick saucepan, a jelly-roll pan, and a candy thermometer.

Toffee

1 cup butter (do NOT substitute)

1 cup sugar

2 Tbsp water

1 Tbsp light corn syrup

3/4 cup sliced almonds

6 oz. pkg. chocolate chips

Crushed walnuts

Place the 2 sticks of butter in your saucepan and melt. Stir in sugar and boil. Add water and corn syrup and stirring constantly cook over medium-high heat to 290 degrees (F). When you get close to the 290, the mixture will thicken slightly and darken in color.

Remove from heat and stir in almonds. Spread immediately onto a lightly greased* jelly roll pan. (Mixture will NOT completely cover the surface.) Sprinkle with Chocolate Chips** and let sit for a few minutes so that chips can soften. Spread melted chips over toffee base and sprinkle with crushed walnuts.

Refrigerate at least until chocolate has hardened. Twist pan slightly to release and break into pieces. Keep in refrigerator until you are ready to use/serve.

HINT: I use the wrappers from the sticks of butter to grease the jelly-roll pan. It's just enough without getting too greasy.

NOTE: This recipe was given to me by a neighbor. I do not know where it came from originally.

Thank You, Janet Dowell!

At least a month ago, Janet Dowell sent me a stamped image and challenged me to create a card with it. I'm sure by now she thinks I've completely forgotten!! Obviously, I haven't....I just needed to work down the pile of projects and there was the image.

Janet stamped the image in black ink and colored in each of the scaves with markers. The image is wider than the typical 4.25x5.50 card that I ordinarily make, so I needed to trim it down some. Then I highlighted all the black lines of each snowman and portions of each scarf with my Quickie Glue Pen (LOVE that little pen!!....a definite MUST HAVE for every stamper!!) and, of course, some Dazzling Diamonds Glitter. With all the bright colors on the image, it was difficult to choose a color combo for the background.....but the image is layered onto a bit of Real Red CS and then a background of Green Galore. The Green Galore, was "embossed" with the snowflake embossing folder and my Cuttlebug.

So, what do you think, Janet? Not your traditional Christmas colors....but it is a very simple, easy, and basic layout. Fun! Thanks for the "challenge!"

Stamps: Snowman-unknown source, Lifetime of Happiness (SU)

Inks: Whisper White Craft, Basic Black

CS: Whisper White, Green Galore, Real Red

Misc: Various Markers-unknown source, Quickie Glue Pen*, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Word Window Punch, White Taffeta Ribbon, Mini Glue Dots, Cuttlebug Snowflakes Embossing Folder*

Note: Snowflakes are confetti that I had purchased years ago from a party supply store.

*Non SU

More Gift Card Holders

What do you give YOUR parents for Christmas? My folks are in their 70s and really don't need anything.....they are just so difficult to buy for! Usually, I purchase a gift certificate for a very nice restaurant in their area.....but, so does one of my brothers. So, this year I decided to do something just a bit different. Some of our local supermarkets have a kiosk with various gift certificates, so that's what I purchased. Now they'll have Walmart dollars as well as a gift certificates for a few casual dinners at restaurants in their area. BUT, how to package them up?

While looking around online for a unique and different idea, I came upon these. Easy and uses just one sheet of background/designer paper. So, this is what I made for the gift certificates for my Mom & Dad, my Mother-in-Law, and my nephew. Remember, it's the presentation that counts!

The above packets feature Designer Paper from last winter......I loved it so much, I bought 3 packages! (What was I thinking?!!) Each packet has a card and the gift certificates in the pockets.

Christmas Gifts

Isn't this just the BESTEST time of the year?!! Everything is so festive......and there are just sooooo many more opportunities to create! Of course, it is probably one of the BUSIEST times as well. But don't you think it is so much better than being board? (OK, we can do without the "crazed" atmosphere.....but it really is a wonderful time of year!)

These little "purses" were created with a brown paper lunch bag and filled with 3x3 cards. Each bag is for one of the team leaders at work. Each of us on the panel wrote our own message inside of each little card. And the last card contains a gift certificate. I shared a "purse" a few months back......arent' these just the cutest?!! The PERFECT way to give a small gift.....of as in this case, a gift certificate!

As you can see, the purse-bags feature the wonderful Blizzard wrapping paper from the Holiday Mini (no longer available). Boy, I wish I had purchased more of that.....it is just so pretty!

I'm not going to give you a recipe, because such a variety of sets were used on the mini cards. If you have any questions, let me know. You can contact me, or leave a comment.

Watch for more gift ideas coming soon.

Challenges!

Well.....it's a CHALLENGE just trying to keep up with the Blog Challenges these days! Sorry, that I didn't post last week's edition....it actually has been done for over a week. I simply didn't have time to scan and post! Life has gotten in the way as it often does.....I've been shopping (almost done with my holiday shopping), wrapping (almost done with this as well), decorating (finally done!), packaging up those extra gifts, baking, finally finished up 75 custom Thank You cards (see this post below), and this is all in addition to all the normal stuff that needs to be done on a daily basis......you know, working (2 P-T jobs), cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc. Whew! I'm exhausted!! BUT, finally I have lots to share!!!!

For starters, I have last week's and this week's Challenges.......

Last week's Challenge was Watercoloring. This simple card features a layout that I've never used before. Fun! Simple and very easy, really. (Sorry, I can't find the source for the layout.) This card features a double background (Canvas with Print Pattern stamped over top) and the fabulous Mega Square Scallop Punch by Marvy (NOT SU!). This little tree is just the cutest, it almost looks like it's dancing! Lot of sparkle has been added.
Stamps: Print Pattern, Canvas, Jolliest Time of Year
Inks: Jet Black StazOn, Garden Green
CS: Very Vanilla, Real Red, Garden Green
Misc: Wide Real Red Grosgrain, 2-Way Glue, Dazzling Diamonds, Mega Square Scallop Punch, Sparkly Stick-ons by Stampendous, Aqua Brush, Watercolor Crayons

And now on a more somber note, the Challenge this week was to design a Sympathy card. Unfortunately, most of us need this type of card at one time or another and they are always difficult to make and to send. So, maybe having a couple on hand for when the need arises isn't such a bad idea! This is what I've come up with.....

My new Sweet Sampler set was sitting out on my desk top since I've been busy packinging things up, and thought, "well, why not?!!" The motif in the background of the greeting works perfectly! The Cuttlebug was also pulled out for this one.....I used the Textile Texture Embossing Folder and then gently whiped my Whisper White Craft pad directly over the raised surfaces. The greeting is from a retired set, Warmest Regards.....just can't part with it!

Stamps: Sweet Sampler, Warmest Regards

Inks: Whisper White Craft, Almost Amethyst, Basic Gray

CS: Very Vanilla, Basic Gray, Elegant Eggplant

Misc: Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon, 1" Circle Punch

Thanks for stopping by and visiting. For now, I'm going to take a bit of a break from these Challenges....until after the holidays. Although I love participating in them and sharing with all of you, there simply isn't enough time in the day to keep up with everything right now! BUT, hopefully, you will check back as I will share some of the gift projects that I've made! In the meantime, please stop by and visit the other Bloggers who participate. You KNOW they always have the most awsome projects posted!

Retired List and more.......

December brings lots of fun things happening at Stampin'Up! First, there is the much-anticipated Retirement List. The list isn't too, too long, but there are quite a few suprises on there! Be sure to check it out because there is a limited to purchase these sets.

Then there's the Five Fantastic Gifts for under $25. Great suggestions! These would look so great under your Christmas tree, or would be fabulous as part of your gift-giving.....OR, they would be wonderful to give to a favorite stamping buddy! (Why not order something for you and something for someone else?!!) But time is limited, for holiday giving. Order your favorite today.

The Wrapping Up The Holidays promo is in full swing. These items will make your gift giving a snap! Be sure to stock up on some of these great products.....remember, it's "not just about the presents, it's about the presentation!" Be sure to contact me to order your favorites today...while supplies last.

NOTE: This sale has been extended! Now, you have until December 31 to order your favorites...don't miss out!!!!

And last, but not least, there's still time to take advantage of the "Holiday Glitz" promotion. It's not too late to order your holiday card supplies or to take advantage of the reduced price of some of our favorite holiday stamp sets. Here's how you can order.

Different Point of View

The Challenge this week is to feature the versatility of our stamp sets. I love using a set in various ways.....thinking out of the box, or coming up with different uses for the same set. This makes a stamp set so much more economical. (Ok, maybe I'm not always the frugal person....but, it's nice to know that a set can be a "bargain," don't you agree?!!)

So, the set I chose for this Challenge is one I haven't used in some time, although it's a fabulous set....Baroque Motifs. The first card is a Christmas card. The little flower-like stamp almost resembles poinsettias. Can you see that I used a glitter pen to highlight some of the swirls? This set can make the most glamarous cards!

Stamps: Baroque Motifs, Holidays & Wishes

Inks: River Rock, Always Artichoke, Bravo Burgundy

CS: River Rock, Always Artichoke, Bravo Burgundy

Misc: Bravo Burgundy 1/4" Grosgrain, Glitter Pen by Sakura, Cutter Kit, Paper Piercer

The second card features a simple, basic layout and can be used as a wedding, anniversary, or just a "love" card to that someone special. Here is where the "glamor" becomes "elegant!" Simple layout, easy card.

Stamps: Baroque Motifs

Inks: Soft Sky, Blue Bayou

CS: Whisper White, Soft Sky, Blue Bayou

Misc: White Taffeta Ribbon, Marvy Giga Square Scallop Punch

NOTE: Card #1 was inspired by this awsome card.

For another idea using this same set, check out this previous post on this Blog. Check here. Now, I challenge YOU to use your stamp sets in various ways.....and why not share and send them my way? Maybe you'll be featured here as well!

Don't forget to stop by and visit some of the super-talented ladies on the Blog Roll! Their postings are always so inspiring! And there's a new member on the blogroll....Melanie! Be sure to visit....she is always an inspiration.

Baby Thank You Cards

My nephew is having a baby! (Oh, that SO doesn't sound right!!) So, being the terrific aunt that I am, I offered to make the Thank You cards to be used for baby shower gifts, which is in early January. Now, I thought this was a nice thing to do....and then found out that I'd need to make 65!! OH, MY! Ok, so 65 means a few extra for those "just in case they are needed" times. So, we're up to 75!

Well, as luck would have it, I was given my nephew's name (which included his significant other) in the "family grab bag." (We each choose a name and buy a gift for that one person....makes it much easier and we can be so much more generous.) So, I decided that these cards would be part of the gift....that means they need to be done soon.....that also means that they need to be simple!

So, here's a sample of the card and the envy, which is peaking out to the side. Both use retired sets, the classic Warmest Regards, along with Simple Somethings (always loved that set!) and Nice and Narrow for the envelope....what a great match they are!!

Whew! Almost half done.....and then I can complete my Christmas cards!

Stamps: Simple Somethings* (card), Warmest Regards*; Nice & Narrow* (envelope)
Inks: Jet Black StazOn
CS: Whisper White, Barely Banana
Misc: Certainly Celery & Barely Banana Markers, Cuttlebug Bow Embossing Folder**

*Retired sets; **Non-SU

Inspired By Challenge....a Week Late!

'Tis the season, as they say! And the hectic holiday season truly is here!!! Are you having trouble keeping up with everything?....I sure am. So much to do, so little time!! And, it will only get worse as we get closer to Christmas!

Anyway, I just didn't have time to post last week's Challenge, which was the "Inspired By..." Challenge. You know from previous posts, that for some reason, I have the most difficult time with these Challenges. This card is actually a swap card that I'm just putting the finishing touches on before mailing out. The theme was "Friendship." The set used in this card is one that was received recently by all demonstrators as a little gift from SU! YUP! Free rubah!! Gotta love SU and new stamps!! SU is so wonderful to work for and they reward us in so many ways. The set featured is called "Time Well Spent," which will be a new hostess set in the brand new catalog due out January 1! Isn't it fun?!!

So, back to the Challenge....this was actually inspired by this card. I just loved the clean lines and color combo. I simply don't use Sahara Sand often enough, and it truly is wonderful to work with!! As you can see, I've kept the layout, but changed it quite a bit. I "colored" in the flower by burnishing the center with a sponge and carefully watercoloring the outline with a blender pen using the ink directly from the ink pad.

Hope you enjoy this late edition of the Challenge....hope to work on and post THIS week's Challenge later today!

Stamps: Time Well Spent, Linen

Inks: Whisper White Craft, Blue Bayou

CS: Whisper White, Sahara Sand, Blue Bayou

Misc: Blender Pen, Versamarker, Dazzling Diamonds, Heat & Stick, Iridescent Ice (greeting), Corner Rounder, White Gel Pen, Paper Piercer (Tool Kit), 1/2" Round Punch, Blue Bayou Stitched Ribbon, Silver Mini Brads

Get Well Soon, Samantha!

A sister demonstrator of mine (my sideline) just found out that her daughter, Samantha, needs to have her thyroid removed. I know from experience that when one of your children is facing surgery it is a very scary thing! Thankfully, her prognosis is good. I made this simple card earlier today to cheer Samantha up and will pop it in the mail tomorrow. Gotta love that Fun & Fast Notes....makes card projects a breeze!

Stamps: Fun & Fast Notes

Inks: Jet Black StazOn

CS: Whisper White, Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery, Watercolor Paper

Misc: Watercolor Crayons, Aqua Brush, Flat Watercolor Brush, 1/8" Punch, Blue Crystal Brad, 1/4" Certainly Celery Grosgrain, Prints Designer Series Paper in Certainly Celery, Giga Square Scallop Punch*, Window Punch

*Non SU

Weekly Challenge--Color Combo

You know what? I've never done a color challenge before! This was not really as easy as it looks....at least not for me! And as usual, I'm running behind! Busy, busy week as always. But here it is. I really wanted to put together a Thanksgiving-themed card to wish you all a wonderful and blessed day. Hopefully, you will spend it surrounded by those you love.

The challenge was to use Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Brocade Blue and any neutral. I used the Pumpkin Pie only on inking the leaves and shading with Chocolate Chip and Old Olive....an "interesting combo," but I did it!

As always, thanks for stopping by. Hope you will take some time to visit the other bloggers challenges.

Stamps: Sanded, Wanted, Linen, Autumn Fest, Hugs & Wishes

Inks: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip

CS: Kraft, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Brocade Blue, Whisper White

Misc: Corner Punch, Oval Coluzzel, Corner Rounder, Chocolate Chip Marker, Grosgrain Ribbon*, Paper Piercer & Template (from Tool Kit), Old Olive Mini Brads, Natural Hemp, Mini Glue Dots, Dimensionals

*Brocade Blue now available only in 5/8" width, the 1/4" shown is now retired.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Fall is FINALLY Here!

In fact, I think we're about to head into winter-like weather any day! It's kind of a shame, really, because true Fall weather can be just delightful. The Fall season is so spectacular....the array of colors in the trees is just breathtaking. AND that is the inspiration for this card....just a very simple, basic layout. This is a thank you for a good friend of mine.

Anyway, hope this gives you an idea of how beautiful the trees in my area really can be.....I think they are just passed their peak, but, oh, they were just so beautiful!

Stamps: Take Three, Autumn Fest, Weathered, Sanded
Inks: Chocolate Chip, Ruby Red
CS: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Ruby Red
Misc: 5/8" Chocolate Chip Grosgrain, Corner Punch, Paper Piercer (Tool Kit), Mini Brads (Vintage Collection); Old Olive, More Mustard, Ruby Red, & Chocolate Chip Markers

Weekly Challenge -- Add a Photo

Do any of you have teenage daughters? If you do, then you know how stressful they can make our lives! As for me, I have twin 19 year old daughters. They are attending the local community college....and the fact that they aren't away at school is something they remind me of daily! Suffice it to say that for now, going to school locally and living home is best for them at this time. But, OH, they do make my life stressful! I can actually FEEL the gray popping out on my head every day! And for those of you who have dealt with this species, KNOW what drama queens they can be...and my daughters are NO exception!!

So, why am I mentioning all this? Well, they are my excuse for being so late with my Challenge this week. In fact, I really didn't have a chance to work on the Challenge at all! BUT, I do occasionally scrapbook, and I'm going to show off one of the last pages I put together. The photos on this scrap page are of my hubby when he was just a toddler and then there is also a family photo. Unfortunately, I don't have dates, so I don't know the ages of anyone in the pictures, and these are the only pictures I have of Dennis growing up. His mom moved a LOT (we often said that her furniture all came with wheels!), so many things must have been lost along the way. And she now has advanced Alzheimers, so I cannot even check to see if I can get anymore info!

This showcases a simple layout. There is a lot of paper piercing on this page, and the "stitching" is done with a marker. The photo corners were created by using the small 1/4" square and the 1 1/4" square. Now I own the corner punch, so it would be so much easier to create this look. The only stamping on this page is actually on the photo corners and the retired Wonderful Weaves was used. As usual, the photo really doesn't do the page justice. It IS a great scrap page! (If I may say so myself!!)

Stamps: Wonderful Weaves

Inks: Basic Black

CS: Natural Ivory, Mellow Moss, Basic Black

Misc: Moss Grosgrain, White Gel Pen, 1/4" & 1 1/4" Square Punches.

NOTE: Title is a rub on. Source unknown.

Thanks for stopping by. Now, I'm off to check the other Bloggers' submissions....won't you join me?

Embellish It! Challenge

Ok, so this week's Challenge was to add some "bling." To me, this was like working in reverse, since I typically design a card or scrap page and then add in the embellishments. BUT, for this Challenge, we had to design something around buttons, eyelets, brads, or hardware. This Challenge took me awhile! (Guess that is what is so great about these Challenges....they push me out of my "comfort zone" and force me to create things I wouldn't ordinarily think of!)

Last night I attempted to achieve an entry for the Challenge and came up with this card. While I like the card well enough, it really isn't my style because I think it is just a bit too busy for my taste. Perhaps if I took out the background paper element, it might work a bit better. But the background paper was the inspiration for the color scheme on this....I colored the trees using the "thumping" technique in coordinating markers: Really Rust, Sage Shadow, Close to Cocoa, and the trunks are done in Chocolate Chip. This stamp just cries out for this technique! And since I seem to hoard my Hodgepodge Hardware and Twill Tape, I gave it a go.

Stamps: Lovely as a Tree

Inks: Creamy Carmel

Markers: Really Rust, Sage Shadow, Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip

CS: Chocolate Chip, Natural Ivory, Really Rust

Misc: Twill Tape, Hodgepodge Hardware (Aged Copper), Template & Paper Piercer (Tool Kit), Mini Glue Dots, Outlaw Designer Paper

Well, since I wasn't entirely happy with that card, I tried again....but, this time, I'm truly happy with it, although it isn't the Fall-themed card as I had hoped it would be! This card features So Much, the set that I received for FREE when I attended the SU Regional in Philadelphia in September. Note that the Rhinestone Brads are placed inside of the Jumbo Eyelets, and the Black Gingham Ribbon has been colored using the Brocade Blue Marker.

Stamps: So Much, Weathered

Inks: Brocade Blue, Jet Black StazOn, Whisper White Craft

CS: Brocade Blue, Kraft, Watercolor Paper
Misc: Jumbo Eyelets (Antique Brass), Rhinestone Brads (Circles: Light Blue from the Ice Collection), Coluzzel, Black Gingham Ribbon, Brocade Blue Marker, Mini Library Clips (Antique Brass) from the Holiday Mini, Mini Glue Dots, Dimensionals, Aqua Brush, Watercolor Crayons (Summer Sun & More Mustard), Cropadile

Thanks for stopping by and visiting. Now I invite you to visit the ultra-talented ladies that participate in this weekly Challenge! Can't wait to see all the fantabulous ideas they have all come up with!! Oh, and our list has expanded.....Gerrie Johnnic has just joined. Now there is even more to visit and more to see!

Background Paper Challenge

After posting so late last week, I really wanted to post on time this week........I actually created this card last Monday and couldn't wait to share!

I saw this wreath idea on a card swap at a recent stamping event and couldn't wait to try it out myself. Simple, basic layout.......so fast!.....so easy! This card has only the tiniest bit of stamping....the greeting, which is embossed and looks a bit more bold in real life. The fabulous patterns in the Designer Paper do all the work!

You know, I really love Fall, which seems to finally be here with the summertime weather finally behind us (I think!), but by far, the Christmas holidays are my very favorite of all!!!

Be sure to check out the other Bloggers' ideas! Have fun looking around.....and thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Many Merry Messages
Inks: Old Olive Craft
CS: Very Vanilla, Real Red, Old Olive
Misc: Scallop Punch, 1" Circle Punch, Ticket Corner Punch, Real Red Grosgrain (1/4" & 5/8"), Dashing Background Paper, Clear Embossing Powder

It's Time for Blog Candy!

The counter at the bottom of my Blog tells me that I've had many visitors in the past few months since I began this journey into blogdom, and the counter is not very far away from 5,000 hits (or visits)! So, it's time to say Thank You in a big way and give away some Blog Candy!!! Leave a coment (please only one per person) at the base of this post and when the counter hits 5,000, I'll choose a winner at random. But don't delay, it's jumping quickly.....oh, and be sure to leave me your e-mail address so I can contact you when you win! Good luck!

Edited to add: I'll wait to 5,100 hits, as the counter is jumping very quickly!

We have a winner!!! CONGRATULATIONS, Joyce Traub! Thank you everyone for visiting! Looking forward to the next edition of my Blog Candy give-away...coming soon (at 10,000)!

Note: Winner was chosen using random.org.

I've Lost My Marbles!

Ok.....I'm offically very, very late with my weekly Challenge! My apologies to all of you who have popped in and out looking for my latest post. I haven't had a chance to stamp in almost a week and needed to carve out a bit of time tonight to do so....and to catch up on my Challenges. And for any of you who have followed the Challenges on this blog, know that the Inspiration Challenges have always been the most difficult for me....and this week was really no exception.

Well, the other day, I visited Michael's and picked up Paper Crafts Holiday Card issue. Lots of fabulous ideas in there! Then I spotted the holiday candle on Page 75, it kind of jumped out at me! This was something that I could reproduce, but using SU products and this is what I came up with......using the so very versatile Pick a Petal. This set is just so amazing.....so many ways to use it. Although each petal was stamped and cut out, it really doesn't take long at all. The only problem I had with this whole project is the coaster, or candle holder. I used a chipboard coaster and covered it with some fabulous background paper....but, when I looked for some marbles to glue onto the base as feet......well, as I said, "I lost my marbles!" Can't find them anywhere. So, imagine little marble legs on the bottom in each of the four corners.

Thanks for stopping by. Hopefully, you've had a chance to check out the others who particpate in the Weekly Challenges. They always come up with the most amazing ideas, don't you think!

Stamps: Pick a Petal

Inks: Basic Black, More Mustard

CS: Purely Pomegranate, Always Artichoke

Misc: 1" Round Punch, Quickie Glue Pen (Non SU), Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Crystal Brad, Wintergreen Designer Series Paper, Coluzzel, Giga Scallop Punch (Non SU)

Bloggers' Challenge -- Christmas Ornament

I'm back from Cape May, NJ.....it is just so beautiful down there! There are loads of wonderful old houses, sometimes called "painted ladies." The weather was almost perfect....so un-October-like.....more like summertime than fall! The crowds that are usually associated with any of the Jersey Shore towns were gone. The B&B we stayed at was just perfect....we even had a wonderful claw-foot tub in our bathroom.....perfect for a long bubblebath! It was a fun and relaxing week.

So, anyway, I'm back! While there, I finished up a project that I had taken with me to trade or swap out tomorrow at a gathering of demonstrators at our group Fall Fest. In the middle of finishing them up, I suddenly realized that they work perfectly for this week's Challenge. So, this project ended up doing double duty!! (This explains why you don't need to wait till the end of the weekend as previously promised!!) To the left is the front view....or the back view, which is exactly the same. The photo to the right is a side view. If you have been visiting this Blog for awhile, you may think this stamping idea looks somewhat familiar!....and you would be right since I CASED my post from August 17, but used Old Olive instead of Wild Wasabi.

This fun little ornament was filled with some chocolate Kisses. It can be used on a gift, or as an ornament. Easy to make....and fun, too! The idea was taken from http://hemidemisemiquaver.wordpress.com/. She has some amazing ideas on her site. Oh, and as usual, I invite you to check out the other Bloggers who participate in this weekly Challenge......they are such a fabulously creative group....they are sure to have posted some really WOW ideas! Enjoy!

Stamps: So Swirly Jumbo Wheel, Season of Joy

Inks: Old Olive Jumbo Cartridge and Classic Ink; Real Red

CS: Very Vanilla, Real Red, Old Olive

Misc: Real Red Narrow Grosgrain, More Mustard Marker (for star at top of tree), Quickie Glue Pen (non-SU), Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, 1/8" Round Punch, Gold Cord*

*Stretch Gold Cord is now available in the Holiday Mini.

Orange & Black Challenge

Ok...technically, I guess I'm late with this post! It's been a very hectic day, with just not enough time to squeeze everything in. So, since I'm still up, isn't it really still today?!! Ok, maybe it's a stretch!

Anyway, here is my Challenge for this week.....we were to use orange and black. I know that there are tons of other ways to use these 2 colors, but to me, they just scream Halloween! And since I haven't posted a Halloween card yet, it's definitely time, don't you think?!! Problem is, I don't have any appropriate sets...my one set retired and I gave it away. Halloween has never been a big deal to me...at least not since I was a child. Of course, I made costumes for each of my kids every year, but we are long past that. To me, Halloween is just the holiday before Thanksgiving.....now that's something to look forward to!!

So, the card this week is super simple. I pulled out Letterpress Alphabet...always good in a pinch...and some of the great new Halloween Designer Paper. Cute patterns! Pretty straight forward, really quite simple. Just 2 things to note.....

Each letter was stamped 2 times: first in Pumpkin Pie and then again, just slightly off in Basic Black.

The "bow" at the top has a piece of Black Gingham threaded through....just colored it with my Pumpkin Pie marker.

Oh, and the background paper really IS black, but looks gray in the scan. Now it's time to go and check out the other Bloggers' submissions to see all the wonderful ideas they have all come up with. We have a terrific new member that just joined this week, MaryJo....a fantabulously creative stamper....be sure to visit!

Stamps: Letterpress Alphabet, Party Punch (Hostess, Level 1), Sanded
Inks: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie
CS: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White
Misc: Pumpkin Pie Marker, Stamp-a-ma-jig, Basic Black Narrow Grosgrain and Black Gingham Ribbons, Round Tab Punch, Creepy Crawly Background Paper

Please note: I will not be participating in next week's Bloggers' Challenge.....at least not on time. (Ok, so that's not unusual!!) Hubby and I will be away next week celebrating our anniversary....it's a BIG one!

Glossy vs. Whisper White Cardstock

First, I want to thank you all for your sweet comments about my Autumn Fest card. It's always good for a girl's ego to know that you are enjoying the posts!

Sweet Miss Daisy (aka: Anna Wight) asked me if you can achieve the same look with both Glossy and Whisper White CS when using the Versamark Resist Technique. Maybe others want to know the answer to this as well? Well, the answer is that you CAN brayer ink over top of a versamarked image to achieve the Versamark Resist, but with different results........

With the Glossy CS, the ink just glides over the paper. The colors from the Spectrum pad blend smoothly and easily because the ink does not dry immediately. There is a richness from the Glossy CS that you just don't get from the Whisper White.

Whisper White CS grips the ink more easily because it dries so quickly on this cardstock. The colors don't smooth out as easily and can be a bit blotchy. (See where the Olive and Mustard inks meet.) It also takes more effort to color the CS with your brayer. Notice the images below......when brayering over a Versamarked image, the image isn't quite as clear.

BUT, a few Conventions ago....maybe 2 years ago?....we were shown Versamark Resist on Whisper White, but a solid ink was used. It's just as fun, just a bit more work, with a noticeably different result. So why not get those brayers out and try it out for yourself?

Spectrum Bloggers' Challenge

Well, you know what they say, don't you? "When it rains, it pours!" Why is that? Why is it that when things happen, everything happens at once?!! It's been hectic....the carpenter has been here every night this past week; the painting contractor came in today; computer repairman came in to service some of the computers (mine is out for repair!), needed to wait for a delivery, I'm back to shuffling my kids around because one of their cars is out of commission and needs to be replaced, AND I started working a few mornings a week at the local jewelry store. (LOVE working there....who wouldn't when you are surrounded by so much BLING!) Anyway, all of that has contributed to creating and posting so late!

This week's Challenge was to create something using a Spectrum pad. These much neglected ink pads were once a favorite of mine, but I found that I was very out of practice using these pads. So, this creation this week is really, really simple.....a back to basics idea, but using new stamp sets, of course! This is a very simple card stamping with the rainbow pad in the most basic way.

Stamps: Priceless, In My Thoughts

Inks: Celebration Spectrum Pad, Brilliant Blue, Pink Passion

CS: Only Orange, Whisper White, Green Galore

Misc: Crystal Brad, 1/8" Punch, Dimensional, Only Orange Marker (dots on flower), Mega Oval Scallop Punch by Marvy

Well, that card was just a warm up, because then I pulled out my brand-new Autumn Fest, bought on special this month......when I first saw this set, I actually hated it! Ok, well maybe "hate" is too strong, but I truly didn't care for it. But then, at Convention, there were some really cool ideas created with this set. So, it made it to my "Wish List." AND THEN, for this month only, the set is on sale......and who can resist a sale?!! So, here we are! Autumn Fest is now sitting nice as can be on my stamp shelf!....it's time to take it out!

This idea is another simple idea, using the Versamark Resist Technique. The glossy CS was stamped with Versamark and then a brayer was used to add color.....and like magic, the versamark images resisted the ink. Stamped over top with Weathered and used it for a background. The Natural Ivory CS with the saying was distressed and the cut out leaf was slightly crumpled and set on Dimensionals. Around here the leaves are just beginning to turn....but this card has captured all the colors of Autumn!

Stamps: Autumn Fest, Weathered, Friendship Flowers
Inks: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Patch Spectrum Pad, Really Rust (cut out leaf), More Mustard
CS: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Natural Ivory, Glossy
Misc: Old Olive Wide Grosgrain, Cutter Kit (for distressing), Dimensionals, Ruby Red Marker (for accenting the cut out)

Ok!....so that's it for the Challenge this week. Thanks for stopping by! Now, you really need to go see what fabulous ideas the other bloggers have created! Have fun looking!!

Buckle it up!

Recently, I participated in a Holiday swap. The criteria was that each swap should be a step above the ordinary...something worthy of a class. It was great fun coming up with this idea. Although I don't believe that I actually copied anything directly, I'm not all too sure that this card is an original idea of mine, either! Probably more like a few ideas that I've seen around, and just combined them.

This is a Buckle Card....sometimes called a Latch Card and looks much more complicated than it really is. This card features 2 background stamps, a word set, Punch Pals, and of course, punches. Punch Pals, as was pointed out at Convention, is actually designed to use with many of the SU punches.....this makes the set loads of fun to use!

Check out this picture of the inside and you can kind of see how it was constructed......mystery solved!

Note that the snowman inside was embossed and then colored using markers for the details (hat band, holly, nose), and Pure Color Pencils.

Stamps: Punch Pals, Sanded Background, Dotted Background

Inks: Bashful Blue, Always Artichoke, Basic Black Craft

CS: Bashful Blue, Whisper White, Certainly Celery, Always Artichoke (layer inside card)

Punches: Corner Rounder, Word Window, Key Tag, 1 3/8" Round, Scallop

Misc: Pure Colore Pencils, Certainly Celery, Only Orange, and Real Red Markers (coloring in the leaves and berries on the snowman hat), Clear Embossing Powder

Weekly Challenge -- Embossing

This week's Challenge was lots of fun! The most difficult part of the Challenge was coming up with the form of embossing I'd like to do...there are so many techniques and ways to emboss: dry embossing, heat embossing, Joseph's Coat, and on and on the list goes!

One of my favorite techniques is Faux Diamond Dust.....so, this card is so very simple with a really basic layout. Didn't want to busy it up and take away from the glittery focal point. All I did was stamp the various snowflakes from the fun new Snow Burst from the Holiday Mini. Then, using DTP, I applied Versamark over the entire piece of stamped CS and then embossed with Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder. Even the tag was embossed, using basic embossing.

Stamps: Snow Burst, Season of Joy (saying)

Inks: Old Olive, Real Red, Whisper White Craft

CS: Very Vanilla, Real Red, Old Olive

Misc: Key Tag Punch (for greeting), Old Olive Wide Grosgrain Ribbon, Iridescent Ice EP

So, knowing that this last card was so very simple (but it looks so sparkly and festive in person!), I decided to share another embossed card with you. This one features Big on Christmas....such a festive and fun set!

The background of this card was dry embossed by using my Cuttlebug and an embossing folder. What the folder does, is push the paper into various impressions. So each snowflake is raised....very dimensional. After embossing, I lightly rubbed my Whisper White Craft Pad over the raised portions, giving them even more definition. The word "SNOW" was not embossed, but simply stamped......however, I used my Versamarker (Versamark Pen) to "color in" the inside of each letter, sprinkled with Heat & Stick and then Dazzling Diamonds Glitter. The snowman was stamped separately on a scrap in StazOn, colored in, covered with Versamark, then Heat & Stick and then the glitter. Finally, it was cut out and placed on a Dimensional directly over the original. Isn't it fun?!! And who doesn't like snowmen!!

Stamps: Big on Christmas

Inks: Brilliant Blue, Jet Black StazOn, Versamark, Whisper White Craft

CS: Whisper White, Real Red, Ballet Blue, Silver Metalllic

Markers (for coloring in the snowman): Basic Black, Real Red, Ballet Blue, Certainly Celery, Only Orange

Misc: Versamarker, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Heat & Stick, Dimensional, Real Red Wide Grosgrain Ribbon

NOTE: Cuttlebug is not marketed by SU

Be sure to check out the other Bloggers who take part in the Challenges. They are all sure to have amazing creations to share!

Tagged!

This is kind of fun. So, when Stefanie tagged me to play a fun name game, so I was happy to play along.
1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet & current car) -Boots Envoy
2.YOUR GANGSTA NAME: (fav ice cream flavor, favorite cookie) Peanutbutter Chocolate (Hmmm! Not sure that one works!)
3. YOUR “FLY Guy/Girl” NAME: (first initial of first name, first three letters of your last name) B-Don
4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal) Blue Dog
5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born) Mary Montclair
(I kinda like that one!)
6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first) - Donba
7. SUPERHERO NAME: (2nd favorite color, favorite drink put “The”) The Moss Chardonary
8. NASCAR NAME: (the first names of your grandfathers) Richard Stephen
9. STRIPPER NAME: ( the name of your favorite perfume/cologne, favorite candy) Eternity Butterfinger (Ewww! THAT sounds tacky!!)
10.WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: (mother’s & father’s middle names ) Grace Robert
So, I guess if you read through, you'll actually learn a bit more about me...and it was fun!

Ok, well, now I'm supposed to pass this on to 5 more bloggers....but I think I'll spare them!

Inspire Me Bloggers' Challenge

Sorry that this post is a bit late, but hopefully you visited some of the other Bloggers who participate in the Challenges. I can't wait to go and visit their sites to see what they have come up with this week....I never peak until I have posted my Challenge so that I cannot subconsciously "copy" or CASE their ideas. Bet their ideas are awsome...they always are!! (Links are in the side column.)

Well, guess where I found my inspiration this time? Yup! You guessed it....in my kitchen again! I went to throw this empty box of cereal in the recyling bin and the layout just jumped out at me. This was something I could work with! It really IS amazing that inspiration can come from anywhere!!!

This card is really not my regular style, but it's growing on me. Guess that's one of the really fun things about participating in these Challenges....they really take me to a creative place I've never been before! Although the card was inspired by the cereal box, I felt that I needed to re-arrange some of the elements of the card for better balance on this card.

A couple of details about this card.....the butterflies were stamped once directly onto the Whisper White CS circle and then again onto a scrap. Then I cut out the wings and glued the center directly over top of the original image. The top pair of butterfly wings can fold up to give them dimension, but was lost and flattened by the scanner. Oh, and Linen was stamped onto the Pixie Pink background in White Craft ink...but I don't think you can see that either. AND, I used a glitter pen to highlight the dots on the greeting and flower and wings of the butterflies.

Don't forget to look around your little corner of the world to see where you can find YOUR inspiration for your next project!

Stamps: Priceless, Linen

Inks: Basic Black, Pixie Pink, Whisper White Craft

CS: Whisper White, Pixie Pink, Basic Black, Certainly Celery

Misc: Coluzzel, Scallop Punch, Large Green Crystal Brad, Basic Black Marker (butterfly trail), Certainly Celery Marker (border around white circle...drawn freehand), White Gel Pen (dots on scallop), 1 3/8, 1 1/4, 1/8 Round Punches, Glitter Pen (non SU)

Back from Phillie!

Whew! It has been a whirlwind weekend! As I've mentioned previously, I left Thursday to attend the SU Regional on Friday. Then my hubby met me and we stayed overnight to do a little site seeing on Saturday. I only live about 1.5 hours from Phillie, but truthfully, I've only been there one other time! The historic district is just wonderful....a blend of new and old. I just love places like that! Walking down the cobblestone streets, you can almost hear the voices of the past.....these are the streets that Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington walked on.

My photography is not the best, but here's a few pictures I thought I'd share. Above is one of the clocks on Independence Hall. And to the left is a picture of the first post office, which is still operating today. Seems Ben Franklin was instrumental in building this, and part of the structure was his book bindery. Of course we saw the Liberty Bell (much smaller than expected!), passed by Betsey Ross' home, and toured the very first building that our government occupied.

We were able to see the sites by taking a tour....we decided to take a Duck Boat Tour. What fun! Many of our larger cities now offer these tours....we were in a big boat with wheels that also went into the water. Odd looking vehicles, these "boats" are from WWII. Our tour guide was really goofy and silly, but entertaining....the children on board really loved him! Here's a final picture of one of the "boats." Not the one we were in, one that came by as we were on our way back to land.

If you have the chance to visit Old Towne Philladelphia, you really should....it's an awsome place to see!

Inspired Bloggers' Challenge

If you remember my last posting with this theme (see post dated August 17), you'll remember that I had a bit of trouble becoming "inspired!" Well, the same is true this time around. I've only just found my inspiration piece, but don't really have time to create today. Need to go to work soon and then I'll be running off to Phillie for the SU Regional, but will work on this Challenge when I return. (You KNOW I just hate to miss the Challenges!!) In the meantime, why not check out the new cards that were added this past week.....and don't forget to check out what all the other participating Bloggers' have posted! They truly are an "inspiring" group! Please come back and visit soon!

Birthday Wishes

Next week is my sister, Pam's birthday. I didn't have much time for stamping, as I'm trying to pack and get ready to leave for the Philadelphia Regional shortly after work tomorrow.....and this really should go in the mail tomorrow so that it reaches her in time. Well, Fun & Fast Notes was still on my desk from my Regional Swaps (I know...need to clean up BEFORE I leave!!), and I just love this little birthday cake.....isn't it just the cutest?!! And you must already know that these colors are some of my favorites!!

The print on this card is a piece of left-over, now retired Dots & Dashes Bkgrd Paper. The birthday cake was stamped and and colored in with markers....the "icing" is actually Dazzling Diamonds! To get the round shape, I used the Coluzzel....also used the Coluzzel for the round Pumpkin Pie layer. The scallop circle is from a non-SU punch, the Marvy Giga Round Scallop punch.

This card WAS fun, and it was fast! Happy Birthday, Sis!

Stamps: Fast & Fun Notes

Inks: Jet Black StazOn

CS: Whisper White, Pixie Pink, Pumpkin Pie, Dots & Dashes Designer Paper

Markers: Pumpkin Pie, Pretty in Pink, Pixie Pink

Misc: Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain (1/4"), 2-Way Glue, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, More Mustard Mini Brads, Paper Piercer

I'm Going to a Regional Seminar!

Every so often, SU offers something they call a "Regional Seminar." Well, for us demos here on the East Coast, they don't happen nearly often enough, and when they do, they are really quite difficult to get into as there is always limited space. BUT, I did manage.....and I'll be attending this Friday in Philadelphia. Can't wait...it's bound to be tons of fun!

Since this is a SU event, you know what that means, don't you?!! SWAPS!! I only managed to make a handful, as I have just been swamped.....life has been busy and crazy! This is what I came up with....the card features one of the new stamp sets I received at Convention, Fun & Fast Notes. It is kind of an updated, new and improved, Nice & Easy Notes (now retired)....a wonderful set that covers just about ANY occasion! This new set is loads of fun to play with! This is a fairly simple layout....check out the double background. (Print Pattern was stamped over top of Linen.) And, yes, I'm still making Christmas cards!.....I guess I really should come up with a Halloween or Thanksgiving card, right?!!

Stamps: Print Pattern, Linen, Fun & Fast Notes

Inks: Always Artichoke, Jet Black StazOn

CS: Always Artichoke, Mellow Moss, Bravo Burgundy, Very Vanilla, Watercolor Paper

Misc: Watercolor Crayons, Aqua Brush, Always Artichoke Marker, Paper Piercer & Template, Gold Mini Brads

Bloggers' Challenge -- Septemer 7

This week's challenge was fun and so very much easier than the last few weeks! We were to copy the card design from Page 12 of the Holiday Mini catalog. The most difficult part was trying to decide if I wanted to stamp backgrounds or use background papers!! As you can see, I've decided to use the fabulous new Wintergreen Designer Paper...which is really re-colored from last year's Holiday Mini. Loved it last year, but like it even better now! Lots of greens in these papers: Sage Shadow, Certainly Celery, Always Artichoke. Now, without the help of the Designer Paper, I'm not sure I would have put together that combo, but it's fun and a bit different. Throw in some of the new crystal brads and my new favorite punch....the Scallop Punch (I still had it out from last week's Challenge!)....and it was a fast card to make. ...and, yes, I seem to be still in the Christmas spirit! (It's coming, you know!!)

Please take some time to visit some of the other Blogs listed to the left....a few new ones have been added. It's really so much fun to hop around and see how differently we all interpret a design!

Stamps: Canvas, Punch Pals, Party Punch (Hostess, Level 1)

Inks: Always Artichoke

CS: Sage Shadow, Always Artichoke, Whisper White, Certainly Celery

Punches: Scallop Punch, 1" Round, 1/2" Round, 1 1/4 " Round, 1 3/8" Round

Misc: Crystal Brads (Green, Round), Paper Piercer & Template, Wintergreen Designer Paper, Certainly Celery 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon

Bloggers' Challenge -- 8/31/07

This week's Challenge took me way out of my comfort zone....it really was a challenge!! All week I've been staring at the sample on Page 92 of the IBC and coming up blank. This year's catalog has so many beautiful and creative samples....but this is one that I've barely even noticed. It is far from one of my favorites!

So, I began working on this earlier this evening. If you could have seen me, you might have thought I was a mad scientist! I had tons of cardstock, inks, punches, and accessories all over....in seemed like I pulled out everything! It took me hours and evolved from soft pastels with a floral theme to the card you see here!! But, when all is said and done, I'm actually quite happy with it! I'm not sure that it is even remotely like the sample, but maybe that's a good thing?

Can't wait to see what all the others have come up with....be sure to check out their blogs! (List is to the left.)

Stamps: Punch Pals, Season of Joy, Canvas

Inks: White Craft, Ballet Blue, Bashful Blue

CS: Whisper White, Bashful Blue, Ballet Blue

Punches: Scallop, Large Tag, 1/4", 1 1/4", 3/4", 1/2" Round Punches

Misc: Dimensionals, Whisper White Grosgrain, White Embossing Powder, Blender Pen

NOTE: Crystals used on the snowflakes and on the snowman's hat are sticky-back crystals from Stampendous. IRL, they look wonderful....they add just the right amount of "BLING," but they look a bit harsh on screen. (The new SU crystal brads were too large!)

Christmas is only 117 days away!

.....at least it is if I counted right! That may sound like a very long time to some, but we all know how time can fly!! And as a reminder, the kids head back to school around here next week, a sure sign that Fall is about to begin!

So, what this all means, is that it's definitely time to begin thinking about holiday cards. Last week, I sent out a batch of these cards for a Holiday Swap that I joined. The criteria was that the swaps feature a set from the new Holiday Mini. Have you received yours yet? If not, please be sure to contact me, because you really don't want to miss it......there are so many wonderful, beautiful sets inside!! Not to mention some fun papers and accessories!

Anyway, this was my card, which features Season of Joy. On screen, it looks a tad washed out (my computer just does not seem to like greens!), but I was happy with the way it turned out. A couple of things you probably cannot see: The tree was outlined in Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, as well as the swirls inside the tree; The red cardstock was stamped with the collaged saying stamp from the set to create a background; and the greeting at the base of the card was stamped in Basic Black Craft ink, but embossed with Iridescent Ice embossing powder.

Sooooo, what are YOU going to do for your holiday cards?

Stamps: Season of Joy, So Swirly Jumbo Wheel, Many Merry Messages

Inks: Wild Wasabi*, Versamark, Basic Black Craft

CS: Very Vanilla, Wild Wasabi, Real Red

Misc: More Mustard Marker (star on tree), Paper Piercer & Template, Gold Mini Brads, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, 2-Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Corner Rounder

*I used the Wild Wasabi Ink Refill to ink up a blank Jumbo Cartridge

FYI: The Holiday Mini will be available for your viewing pleasure this Saturday, September 1 at www.stampinup.com

Punch Happy

Using punches is so much fun!....especially when you begin to use them in ways that really aren't obvious....when you "think outside the box." And that's just what I did for this week's edition of our Bloggers' Challenge. Used the oval punches in a different way than the original intent. Of course, I cannot claim this idea as my own....it's actually a compilation of a few ideas I've seen around, but I changed the layout and background. I've really wanted to try this for a long time and this week's Challenge presented the perfect opportunity.

The body was created by using the Coluzzel....the round punches just did not give me the proportion that was needed for this little guy. The edge of each circle or oval (with the exception of the eyes) was lightly sponged in Garden Green ink to give it a bit more definition. And the greeting was created on the computer. Wouldn't this make a cute invite for a child's party? How fun!!

Don't forget to check out the other Bloggers submissions.....I can't wait to see what these talented ladies have come up with!!

Stamps: Dotted, Sanded Backgrounds

Inks: Wild Wasabi, Certainly Celery, Garden Green

CS: Whisper White, Certainly Celery, Wild Wasabi

Punches: Large Oval, 1/2" & 1/4" Round, Spring Flower Bouquet

Misc: Ticket Punch, Black Mini Brads, Paper Piercer, Sponge Dauber, White Gel Pen, Basic Black Marker, Coluzzel