The Stamper's Touch

Just Because

2012-02-11T22:23:00.003-05:00

I'm happy to be feeling better now. I felt really icky Friday, actually slept most of the day away. So glad whatever it was is now gone. I got into my stamp room this evening for some card making, just because. Bugaboo Stamps is sponsoring a color challenge at Chocolate, Coffee, & Cards - orange, teal and brown. Of course I had to use a Bugaboo image, Hummingbird Vase. Aren't these colors wonderful together?!! I love 'em! Kept the layout simple with a some brads and my favorite embellishment, sewing.

I hope to see you on Monday for our Groovy Blog Hop at Fresh Brewed Designs. Mark your calendar.

The Crafter's Cafe Blog Hop

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

We are having a GIANT Blog Hop to celebrate our new team at The Crafter's Cafe.

You should have arrived here from Karen's Blog. If not, please be sure and start at the beginning HERE, you won't want to miss a thing.

At the end of the hop, you have a chance to win a prize package generously donated by Fresh Brewed Designs. Here's a picture of that awesome prize package...

WOW, 3 rubber stamps!!!! How fun!!!

Now while you're here, you'll need to pick up your "CLUE" for a chance to win the Fresh Brewed Designs prize!

MY CLUE IS: U

We're having a big, grand opening party at The Crafter's Cafe

all day tomorrow

with lots of games and sponsors. Here's a card I made using an image from one of our sponsors...

It's a Fresh Brewed Designs image recently released for Valentine's Day called Valentine Sweetheart. I paper pieced the heart using a free paper pack that came with a stamping magazine I got awhile back. The sentiment is also from Fresh Brewed Designs, and can be found HERE. I went on a bit of a shopping spree too and bought some new twine - I LOVE IT!!

Now come on over to the party for a chance to win all kinds of great prizes

from all of our amazing sponsors... get to know our new team... and check out the new look!!

All the games and events will be listed here at The Crafter's Cafe.

Your next stop on the hop is Beth's Blog.

Be Mine

2012-02-09T03:00:00.001-05:00

So tell me, what inspires you with this photo? That's our challenge each week at Paper Lovin' Gals. It's so much fun seeing what everyone comes up with, so be sure to join us.

Color, the blocks, and the sentiment were my inspiration (guess that pretty much covers the whole photo!! Hehehe!!). I'm always trying to embrace the simpler side of card making and that's exactly what this one is. I only wish I had added some texture to the red or white panel by running it thru an embossing folder. Next time!! I'm involved in a swap over at Splitcoast Stampers so maybe I'll use this idea since it really was so quick to make. Now like I said, join us for some photo fun at Paper Lovin' Gals.

Sending Some Love Your Way

2012-02-08T04:00:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for my Fresh Brewed Designs post, please scroll down.

Hello and welcome to another fabulous Sweet Sketch Wednesday. We really appreciate you our followers as well as our sponsors. Our rules have changed and I know change is hard. We are here to provide inspiration for your crafting so please still play along even if you do not have an image from our sponsor for that week. You will simply not be eligible for the grand prize, but instead you'll have a wonderfully crafted card to be proud of. The sketch for this week is a blast from the past, so have fun with it!!

Our wonderful sponsor this week is The Stamping Boutique. What a fabulous array of images!! Here's a bit about The Stamping Boutique and its owner, Tracey Malnofski:

Tracey Malnofski's resume reads like a who's who of the Stamping Industry. Besides being the owner and a designer for The Stamping Boutique, she's also a stamp artist for Unity Stamp Company and has also worked for InStyle Stamps, Squigglefly, and The Digi Shack. She's a professional artist and an active member of the Artist' Guild in her community.Tracey has quite a busy household with a husband, 3 teenagers, 5 mini-dachshunds and an Appaloosa mare. It's noisy, but she loves them all. Her "Boutique" has it all - fairytale, whimsy, sentimental . . . and Candy!

Here's what Tracey says about her Stamping Boutique. "The Stamping Boutique" is dedicated to quality products and original artwork. We not only provide wonderful digital images in our store, but also several lines of red rubber images. Our designers are chosen for their character and personality, as well as, their beautiful designs. We work hard to give you our very best. Thank you so much for having us as your sponsor this week.

We are honored to have you as our sponsor! The Stamping Boutique is offering 3 digis of choice to our Grand Prize Winner.

I was thrilled when I was able to work with Winter Time Smoochie. I pulled this bright and cheery plaid paper from my scrap bin and went with it to color Smoochie with my Copics. I don't tend to use brights that often so it was a blast to pull 'em out!!! We really hope you will join us this week at Sweet Sketch Wednesday.

I Love U Cupcakes

2012-02-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

YUM!!! Check out these delicious cupcakes!! Let me take a minute to savor before telling you about our Fresh Brewed Challenge...................................................
Okay, okay, I'm done! This week we are having a photo inspiration challenge. What inspires you about this pic? Well make a card and join us this week!!

Of course the cupcakes were in the forefront of inspiration for me, followed by the colors and "I Love U" sentiment. I used from Fresh Brewed Designs this fun digi called Sweetheart Cupcake and the sentiment is from a set found HERE. The colors I used were browns, purples, pinks and reds. And the red sparkly embellishments are stickers -- they're fabulous because they give a bit of sparkle with absolutely no bulk at all. Great for mailing. I hope you can join us this week at the Fresh Brewed Blog and show us your delicious inspiration.

I'm Crazy for You

2012-02-07T04:00:00.000-05:00

I must admit, I'm sad that football is over. As a family we would have a football pool, picking winners from every game that week, and whoever had the most wins got to pick where we would get take out for dinner! Talk about a win/win situation for me!!!!! Well now the fun is over and I'm back to doing all the cooking again.

My card was inspired by my team, the Pittsburgh Steelers and their black and gold. And what better to be black and gold than a bumble bee! This particular digital image from Fresh Brewed Designs, called Bee Happy Flower, is one of the Cancer Awareness Items available for purchase at Fresh Brewed Designs. "All proceeds of this image will go to creating baskets and card sets to be sent to local hospitals in hopes to bring smiles and cheer to children who have and are being treated for cancer." An adorable image for a worthy cause.

Special Today at Fresh Brewed Designs

2012-02-06T04:00:00.000-05:00

So who else watched the Super Bowl last night? I didn't think I would since my team wasn't in it, but I ended up sitting thru the whole thing!! Was even a little bit late leaving to pick up Phillip from work...OOPS!

Today is the first Monday of the month so that means a "Special Brew" happening at Fresh Brewed Designs. This darling little rubber stamp, Cutie Pie in Clouds, will be $3.95 today only!! Hurry up and order yours today!

Shocking news here, I don't have Cutie Pie in Clouds, but I wanted to show you a card using a cutie stamp that I do have, Cutie Pie Swinging. I paper pieced her dressed making her all ready for spring. I am submitting this card to Birthday Sundaes -- their challenge is a birthday card with sentiment.

Hope you have a wonderful Monday.

Howdy

2012-02-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Howdy partner! It's Super Bowl Sunday and I still don't have a menu figured out. The most I have ready are chicken wings. We always eat the "not so good for you" but "oh so delicious" foods for the Super Bowl. I set up a table in the living room and we park our butts on the couch in front of the big screen TV and eat!! I don't know what else to have!! I'll come up with something.

Here's my card for the Doodle Pantry Challenge. Check it out because if you submit a project using a Doodle Pantry image, you receive and adorable digi set called Cocoa Cup Ants FREE!! I can't wait to get my hands on that one!! The image I used is called Cowboy Birdie. The fabulous paper also comes in this set. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love the pre-colored digis and coordinating papers!! I got this card done in no time!

Hello There

2012-02-04T04:00:00.001-05:00

Just a quick post for today, got lots of things to do. Phillip and his Dad are off to another indoor track meet. Last week's meet they were there for 12 hours, and there were still events going on!!! That's why Kevin and I decided to stay home!

Anyway, here's the fun sketch over at Catch the Bug. I love that they are every other week, giving me plenty of un-pressured time to get one done.

And here is my card for the sketch, using the Bugaboo Stamps digital image AKV Men Running. And would you look at that, 3 pieces of dsp off my scrap pile!!! The shame of it all, it's hardly noticeable!!! Enjoy the weekend.

Just for Ewe

2012-02-03T11:00:00.002-05:00

So the groundhog saw his shadow which means 6 more weeks of winter. Well if it's anything like we've had up to now, fine by me!! I know, I'm living in a fantasy world, but a girl can only hope, right?!!

It's the first Friday of the month which means a new Clearly Inspired Challenge sponsored by Clear Dollar Stamps. We've got a color challenge for you -
I used the adorable digital set Loving Critters Color. As always, I was running late getting my sample done so these colored digis are such a time saver!! Be sure and join in the fun of our color challenge. It runs for two weeks and there are always fabulous prizes to be won...and that could be you!!!

I Heart Paper Lovin' Gals

2012-02-02T03:00:00.001-05:00

How are things in your neck of the woods? I am lovin' this unusually mild winter so far, I only hope we don't get hit with major snow and cold. It's Thursday and a new challenge to introduce you to at Paper Lovin' Gals. Don't you just love this photo? My inspiration was the hearts and the color - pink, kraft and white.

My PTI order just arrived and inside was some yummy kraft felt. I knew I wanted to use it on my card so why not die cut some hearts with it!! Now the empty space is killing me!! It needs a sentiment, but I'm not sure if I'll be using this as a birthday card or Thinking of You, so I left it blank. We so look forward to seeing your creations to find out what inspires you with the photos, so join us at Paper Lovin' Gals.

Some Exciting News

2012-02-01T04:00:00.001-05:00

This is my third post for today. If you're looking for the Fresh Brewed Designs and Sweet Sketch Wednesday challenges, please scroll down.
Go ahead, call me crazy, I call myself blessed...I am one of the newest Design Team members for The Crafter's Cafe Challenge Blog. Today is our Grand Opening with a new DT, month long challenge, and sponsor. I am so honored to be a part of this team of kind and talented ladies. We have a color combo to challenge you with this month - red/pink/purple. And our sponsor, yep, you guessed it, is A Day for Daisies. Now, as you may already know, purple is far from a favorite color of mine, but somehow, it worked here. Oh believe me, I'm still not a purple convert, I will simply tolerate it for this month's challenge!! Now be sure and check out all the creations from the rest of the DT for this week (we have two groups of DT members so we create and post every other week). Be sure and join us too at The Crafter's Cafe Challenge Blog.

Whoooo Loves ya Baby!

2012-02-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for my Sweet Sketch Wednesday post, please scroll down.
Happy Wednesday and welcome to February. Can you believe it, no more January?!! February of course is the "Love Month" with Valentine's Day. And that is exactly what our month long challenge is at the Freshly Brewed Blog. Check out today's post to find out if you are the lucky winner from last month.

I wanted to make Valentine's for our three nieces - one is married, one works in Florida, and the other is in college. Even though they're all grown up, they still love getting cards in the mail. I used a Fresh Brewed Designs digital stamp called Valentine Owl. I kept it simple and flat, two good things for making multiple cards that I plan to mail (with one stamp each!). Now I'm looking forward to seeing your "Love" card, so be sure and play along.

Lots of Love

2012-02-01T02:00:00.001-05:00

Well here it is, the first of February...can you believe it??!!! It's also Wednesday so it's time to reveal our new sketch and sponsor for Sweet Sketch Wednesday. Here's our awesome sketch. Thanks Arlana!!

And here's our wonderful sponsor, Elisabeth Bell Designs. The grand prize winner will receive the two digis picture below:

Lots of Love

My Prince

Here's my card using Lots of Love. Such a sweet image!! And how much fun to be using up papers and embellies from my stash. I am still holding strong with the challenge I set for myself to not buy any designer papers till my birthday...in September!!!!! I should rephrase that, I'm still good on my challenge, I wouldn't say I'm holding strong!!! Now I look forward to seeing what you create.

Flowers for my Valentine

2012-01-31T04:00:00.001-05:00

I am still playing with the new Valentine images Heather recently released at Fresh Brewed Designs. This digi image is called Flowers for my Valentine and can be found HERE. Now if you want to see all the fun images recently released then check them out HERE in the "Hot out of the Press Digis." I usually get flowers from my hunny every Valentine's Day. What's nice is he always gets me something different each year, not always red roses. My Valentine card is something different too in that it isn't pink and red with a bunch of hearts all over it. With nothing but boys in my life, I'm always aiming for the blues and browns!

Be sure and join us tomorrow for our new monthly challenge at the Fresh Brewed Blog. YIKES, guess that means it will no longer be January!!!

Be on the lookout Monday, February 6th for a one day SALE, SALE, SALE. This adorable rubber stamp, Cutie Pie in Clouds, will be $3.95. If she sells out, a new stamp will replace her at that price until the end of the day. I hope it sells out so I can see what the replacement stamp will be!!!! Hehehe!

Toucan Sam

2012-01-30T00:05:00.001-05:00

I LOVE digis that are already colored!!! I was able to complete this card in no time. I also had the help of the fabulous Sketch for you to Try. My digital is from Clear Dollar Stamps, a set called Toucans of Love. The designer papers are also digital and also found in this set. How could I ask for more!!! I love the bright colors, definitely a pick me up kind of card.

You're Tea-rrific!

2012-01-28T00:27:00.003-05:00

It's Saturday...Phillip is off to another indoor track meet. I hope he does well. He has been training so hard, now if the nerves don't get the better of him.

I wanted to show you the card I'm submitting to a great challenge blog, Seems a Little Sketchy. I enjoy their sketches and have played since they started. I like that they have new sketches every other week, allowing me plenty of time to get one done! And I was actually one of the winners of the last challenge, how fun is that! I have a prize package coming my way!!! As for my card, I used a Clear Dollar Stamps that's already colored called Tearrific Teapots Color. I was able to get this done in no time. Afterall, look at all the time savers I had - digital image already colored, coordinating papers, and a wonderful sketch. Fun, fun, fun!!!

You're Scent-sational

2012-01-27T04:00:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I had some time before heading out for an appointment so I whipped up this card! It's not for a challenge or a design team requirement, it's just for fun!!! And it's flat, so it's mailable too!! I had the Doodle Pantry image, Quirky Skunk, already printed up along with the digital paper that's included. I had card stock right in reach and a card was born!! Talk about quick and easy, and I wasn't even late for my appointment!!!! Make time to create something fun this weekend! And remember, you're scent-sational!!!

Hello There

2012-01-26T03:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning and welcome to our new challenge at Paper Lovin' Gals. Each week a photo is posted for you to draw inspiration from for your project. What pops out at you with this picture?

The color and butterflies hit me right away. I saw a purpley pink and pulled out my long ago retired Mauve Mist card stock. I can't stress enough how I am so trying to get a more simplified style to my cards and this one came out just right. Who doesn't love embossing folders to add just the perfect touch to any card without adding too much bulk. The butterflies are a Martha Stewart punch. Now be sure and check out what the rest of the DT did on the Paper Lovin' Gals blog. I always find it amazing how one photo can inspire so many wonderful creations! Can't wait to see yours too!!

Sweet Sketch Wednesday

2012-01-25T04:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday! It's always wonderful when hump day is here for several reasons. One is it's time to reveal a new sketch for our Sweet Sketch Wednesday. Now be sure to read the rules carefully on our challenge blog as there have been some changes.

Something else that is wonderful this week is our lovely sponsor, A Day for Daisies. I have to admit, I was not very keen on these images when we first started using them, but let me tell you, I have done an about face. I love their images, so sweet, so whimsical, so fun to use. You will love them too, I just know it. Owner Tammy is graciously offering our winner a $12 gift certificate to the ADFD Shop.

Here is my card, using the image Can't Sleep. I simply love this little girl hugging so tight her beloved teddy bear. I used some old SU papers I have that are actually meant for Valentine's. Make it work!! Thanks for stopping by. Be sure and see what else our DT has created for your viewing pleasure.

Brrrrr, It's Winter

2012-01-25T03:00:00.001-05:00

We're having a Snow/Winter theme for our challenge this week on the Fresh Brewed Blog. Yesterday and today our snow melted, leaving behind green grass with piles of snow where it was thrown when shoveling over the weekend. This is my kind of winter, I must admit. Of course I used a Fresh Brewed Designs snowman image on my card called Girl With a Snowman. The sentiment was part of the 12 Days of Sentimental Christmas and can be found HERE. I had to pull out some bright papers for this because I am so looking forward to the threat of snow being over and spring to arrive. I couldn't believe my luck when I found this ribbon in my stash - the colors are perfect! Now get crafty and join us for our Snow/Winter themed challenge at the Fresh Brewed Blog.

Bee Mine Valentine

2012-01-24T04:01:00.000-05:00

I just can't say enough about this sweetie of a honey bee, she is so adorable!!! She is a new digi released last week at Fresh Brewed Designs. Her name is Cutie Pie Honey Bee and you can find her HERE. From the moment I saw her I couldn't wait to print her out and color her up! The sentiment is from a set that can be found HERE.

Phillip and I have our Disney trip all finalized. We are going in March and simply can't wait. I have a countdown app on my phone to remind me everyday - it's 45 days at this moment! I still need to make meal reservations but otherwise, everything is set. I'm so anxious to see my two nieces when we're down there. It's been far too long.

You Rock My World!

2012-01-23T18:48:00.002-05:00

Check out the latest "Stella Says Sketch" challenge over at Catch the Bug. I do love a good sketch challenge!!

Here's my card using a Bugaboo Stamps digi called Skelekinz Boys - You Rock my World. I thought this would make a fun Valentine's Day card! The paper is from a Rock Star stack by Best Creations Inc. I needed something fun to make to get me back in the groove - no mojo means no cards. It's a start.

Time to go Sledding

2012-01-21T17:05:00.003-05:00

We got about 6" of snow overnight!! Couldn't believe it when I woke up this morning! Kevin talked his Dad into sledding with him...they both came in with red cheeks. These ants look like they're having fun sledding too! This is a Doodle Pantry colored digital image called Sledding Ants...aren't they adorable?!!! Wanted to keep it simple too with the embossing, snowflake and sewing as the only embellishment.

Lasagna for dinner tonight, YUM!! Throwing some garlic bread in the oven too and a meal the whole family will eat is served! And there's leftovers too for another night!!! Even better.

Clearly Inspired Challenge

2012-01-20T10:55:00.002-05:00

This card may be oh so sweet, but why did it take me oh so long to make? Being a slacker I guess. Anyway, welcome to our Clearly Inspired Challenge here at Clear Dollar Stamps. Our theme this time is PASTELS. I used the adorable pre-colored digi Sentimental Ewe, raiding my scrap bin for this little piece of pastel papers. The sentiment is from the clear stamp set Baby Bundle. Be sure and play this challenge because the players means more prizes to give away!!! And who doesn't love prizes?!!!

Fresh Brewed Valentine Blog Hop

2012-01-19T00:07:00.004-05:00

Love, love me do.
You know I love you,
I'll always be true,
So please, love me do.

It's all about the hugging and kissing and daydreaming... sigh.
We are talking about that four letter word today.
LOVE!

If you are getting here from Stacy's blog, Impressions of a Ribbon Addict, then you are right on track. If not, you need to start at the first hop stop, The Freshly Brewed Challenge Blog.
Everyone at Fresh Brewed Designs has been creating and keeping secrets from each other.
You got it, even we don't know what the others got to create with! I will be hopping right along with you, excited to see what is new and next on the list for me to get to create with!!

Here's my card and I got to create with the new digi Hunka Lovin. You can find him as well as all the new Valentine digis in the Fresh Brewed Designs Store under Holiday Digitals - Valentines/In Love. Isn't he awesome!! I paired him up with Shy Girl...my Mom always said to watch out for the quiet shy ones!!!!! She has found her man, who comes with roses and chocolates!

Well this love train has come to the end of line...I am the last stop in our Valentine hop.

Thank you for hopping with us at Fresh Brewed Designs. Be sure to leave some blog lovin' on all the stops for your chance to win a SPECIAL FRESHLY BREWED PRIZE! You have to leave a comment on all of the hop stops in order to win.

Just in case you get hit with Cupid's Arrow along the way and get a little lost, here is the hop order:

Freshly Brewed Challenges Blog - http://freshbreweddesigns.blogspot.com/
Heather - http://joemamainks.blogspot.com/
Sheryl - http://butterflykisscards.blogspot.com/
Celeste - (guest)- http://www.touchedbyabutterfly.com/
Vanessa - http://vanessaspapercreations.blogspot.com/
Gale - http://galevarland.blogspot.com/
Kenzi -(guest)- http://kraftyhugzz.blogspot.com/
Stacy - http://impressionsofaribbonaddict.blogspot.com/
Linda - http://stamperstouch.blogspot.com/

Thankful Heart

2012-01-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

This is the time of year when everyone is tired of Christmas red and green but also getting overloaded with red and pink of Valentine's Day. Well we are ready to change that up this week here at Paper Lovin' Gals with this beautiful photo. We ask you to find what inspiration you get from it then create with it!

I was first attracted to the yellow then the flowers. I used a new stamp from Clear Dollar Stamps called Dahlia. The digital option was just released on Tuesday and you can find it HERE. I stamped it twice on a scrap of designer paper and cut it out, the bottom layer the entire flower and the second one just some of the inside petals. I sponged around the edges with Crushed Curry ink for a little dimension. Actually, I stamped it a third time onto the white layer, colored in the stem, then glued down the bottom flower and popped up the top flower. Wow, a lot of words for a rather simple card!! Pass the word around about our challenge blog, Paper Lovin' Gals then play along with us, we love to see what inspires you!

Buttons and Bows

2012-01-18T04:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our weekly challenge over at the Fresh Brewed Blog...Buttons & Bows. I wanted to use a Fresh Brewed Designs digi that I hadn't printed up in a while, and Debbie fit the bill. She looked like she needed a bow in her hair too, so how perfect!!! Using up more pieces of paper from my stash...hooray!!!

Just a quick reminder of our Valentine blog hop tomorrow. You are so going to love what you'll see from the design team...and if you want to see anything from me, I'd better get my butt in my craft room and start creating!!!!!!! Enjoy your day!!

From All of Us

2012-01-18T03:02:00.001-05:00

Wow, would you look at this great sketch!!!! Can you say fun with layers?!!! Whenever Wednesday comes around, I am always excited to show off our latest sketch at Sweet Sketch Wednesday. You want to know what else is exciting...why our sponsor of course.

Once a month the lovely Sally Ann from Digi Stamp Boutique generously provides a prize to our big winner of 6 free digis!! Can you say FABULOUS?!!! Thank you so much Sally Ann.

Now here's the card I made using the Cute Bird Family. Adorable indeed. I went shopping in my stash and found this vibrant yellow and blue paper and knew I simply had to use it. The three flowers in the upper left corner of Arlana's sketch can be any type of embellishment so I went with clouds, cutting them out with a die from PaperTrey Ink. Be sure and check out what the rest of the DT created at the Sweet Sketch Wednesday blog. They always give me such inspiration.

Make a Wish

2012-01-17T23:22:00.003-05:00

I am trying to keep up with the mini challenges over at Catch the Bug in celebration of Bugaboo Stamps second birthday. This is for Monday's challenge - 2 of something. I have two designer papers (from my stash!!), two embellishments, and of those two embellies, two gold brads. Keeping it simple so I don't fall too far behind! With the kids having been home on Monday it has messed me up this week! I have to keep checking the calendar to remember what day it is! And no, that's not a sign of old age!!!!! It's the change in my routine (that's my story and I'm sticking to it!!!).

Winter Bear and Snowman in Blue

2012-01-17T11:00:00.000-05:00

It's our January release of some wonderful digital stamp sets at Clear Dollar Stamps, and I know you're gonna love 'em! Here is Winter Bear. You can also find him in clear acrylic, but I love him in digital because he comes pre-colored!!! And you know how I love the quick and easy cards you can create with those pre-colored digis! Even the papers are digital so everything coordinates without much thought.

Here is Snowman Tweet Blue. Another colored digi that I so enjoyed making a card with. This snowman also comes all dressed up in green too, and you can find him HERE. Either way, he is one handsome snowman!! And both sets come with digital papers too to make your project quick and easy to create.

Check out the CDS Blog for all the wonderful DT inspiration. Then head on over to the CDS Store to purchase your new digital stamps today.

I Heart You

2012-01-17T04:00:00.000-05:00

It's fun making a card, well, for fun!!! I decided to pull out an oldie but goodie digi from Fresh Brewed Designs called So Sweet Valentine. I had this one colored up for a week a so, but just now sat down and put it onto a card. And this card took me forever to make too, not because it's complicated or anything, but because I couldn't quit watching the football games this weekend!!! It's not quite as fun watching now that the Steelers are out, but I cheered teams on none the less.

Don't forget, this Thursday is our Valentine's Day blog hop at Fresh Brewed Designs. It will all start on the Fresh Brewed Blog so don't miss out on the fun!

Clear Dollar Stamps January Blog Hop

2012-01-15T11:00:00.000-05:00

Well, it's the 3rd Sunday of the month (can you believe it, already?!) so that means it's our monthly blog hop for Clear Dollar Stamps. If you came here from sweet Cassie's blog, then you're on the right track. If not, be sure and go back to the beginning at the CDS blog.

Our theme this month is i {heart} you. The fun part is interpreting this your own way and seeing how everyone else does too! I used the pre-colored digi Heart Hugs. For those who prefer stamps, this image also comes in clear acrylic.

Be sure and hop along the entire way leaving comments. We will randomly choose a winner from one of the DT member blogs for a $25 gift certificate to CDS for digital stamps!!!

Your next stop is the fabulous Jerusha's blog. Happy Hopping!

Sweet Bird-Day!

2012-01-14T23:33:00.002-05:00

Bugaboo Stamps is turning two and celebrating with a blog hop and mini challenges. Check it all out on their blog, Catch the Bug. They hold regular challenges every Saturday and today's is, you guessed it, birthday! I used this sweet image called Bird Greetings - Sweet Birdday. I used my favorite size of card, 4.25" square as well as some dsp scraps. Oh, and an update on the challenge I gave myself to not buy any new designer paper until my birthday in September is still going strong...well, maybe I shouldn't say strong. I'm lovin' the new valentine paper from Basic Grey!! Okay, back to my card, it's simple, but that works for me!

I'm heading off to bed, will either read a little bit or watch some TV. Watched football some. It's just not the same now that the Steelers are no longer in it! There's always next year!!!

Doctor's Orders

2012-01-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

I wanted to show off this adorable digital stamp set from Clear Dollar Stamps called Happy Healing. You receive 3 images and 8 sentiments in this set for only $2.50!!! How fabulous is that?!!! I actually need something stronger than two hugs the way my back hurts from shoveling snow today! Our first snow storm and I'm ready for spring already!!! I'm submitting my card to the Get Well challenge over at Paper Pretties. Get well and sympathy are cards that I never seem to have on hand. I hope you'll come back tomorrow for our monthly blog hop at Clear Dollar Stamps. Hop along with us and comment for your chance at a prize!! Fabulous!

Have a Mice Day

2012-01-13T00:07:00.003-05:00

EEEEK, it's a mouse...but a cute one at that!!! I wanted to make a quickie card so I pulled up my Doodle Pantry colored images to print off. I just got this darling little guy, Quirky Mouse, and couldn't wait to put him to use. I also used some of the digital paper included in the set. It's all about the image so a simple layout and only ribbon to embellish. I'm submitting this for the Doodle Pantry challenge found HERE on their blog. Simply by playing along, I will receive an adorable digital set called Workout Birdie...thanks Laurie!!!

Bonjour!

2012-01-12T03:00:00.001-05:00

Bonjour and welcome to another challenge at Paper Lovin' Gals. Such a fun photo, so what inspires you? I loved the Eiffel Tower, so elegant, so iconic.

With that in mind, I had to go to my whimsical side and use the only stamp I have of the Eiffel Tower, the three French Hens from the 12 Days of Christmas Set at Bugaboo Stamps. I used the sketch from Seems a Little Sketchy challenge blog. I'm keeping this for my sister-in-law's birthday in March, she is a French teacher and will get a kick out of it. I hope you can join us this week at Paper Lovin' Gals.

Color Challenge Fresh Brewed Style

2012-01-11T04:00:00.001-05:00

A busy day ahead for me. First, I'm meeting a friend for breakfast...wonder what I should order? I need to fuel up for the rest of the day of running around doing errands. It's a new challenge this week at the Fresh Brewed Blog, a color challenge - Kraft, Pink and White. I used the adorable digital stamp from Fresh Brewed Designs called So Sweet Waffle Cone. Not only did I use the liquid applique on the whipped cream, but I also used Crystal Effects on the strawberry. Such fun shine and texture. I turned it into a much needed birthday card so I'm going to submit it to several birthday challenges: The Crafter's Cafe Challenge Blog and Birthday Sundaes. Enjoy your day everyone, mine is going to be busy.

Sweet Sketch Wednesday

2012-01-11T03:00:00.000-05:00

Yep, it's Wednesday, and time for a new sketch over at our challenge blog Sweet Sketch Wednesday. Once a week the fabulous Arlana creates such wonderful sketches. This week's sketch is actually a blast from the past, one that we had so much fun with the first time, it was brought out of the archives to use again!

And this week we have a fabulous sponsor, Wee Stamps. Here's a little bit about 'em:

"The owner and illustrator behind Wee Stamps - Sylvia Zet – creates unique designs of charming and whimsical characters, which are loved for their adorable little faces expressing innocence and trustful hearts. Wee illustrations feature cute kids and fluffy animals are available as digital downloads at www.weestamps.com and also as deeply etched red rubber stamps at Whimsy Stamps."

What's the prize you ask...why 3 digis of the winner's choice! FABULOUS!!

I was thrilled to get to play with this adorable image, Let it Snow. Isn't she sweet?!! We got a little bit of snow the day before the kids went back to school. My youngest, Kevin, did a little sledding, but I know was wishing for more of the white stuff. Be sure and check out what the rest of the DT created, you are gonna love it!

Clear Dollar Stamps Product Parade Final Day

2012-01-10T11:00:00.000-05:00

Today we'll be showing your the Stamps of the Quarter 2012. These are sets that you get to choose from to receive FREE with a $40 order. The trouble is, deciding on which one!! First up is Winter Bear. Isn't he sweet passing out Warm Winter Wishes to you and your friends?! I love the little penguin he's holding!

The next two pics use the stamp set Sweet Heart. I actually made a candy holder following the tutorial I found HERE. Yes, I know, hard to believe I made something other than a card!! Here's a picture of it closed...

And here it is open. Yes, I was able to fit two snack size Hershey bars inside...YUM!!

The third stamp of the quarter set is called Mini Verses. I made a little gift set using Basic Grey's Sweet Threads dsp, a variety of embellishments, and Designer Label Dies and Designer Label Accent stamp. The verses fit inside perfectly.

I hope you've enjoyed what we had to share with you of this quarter's new release at Clear Dollar Stamps. More information can be found on the CDS Blog.

That's Groovy

2012-01-10T04:00:00.002-05:00

Oh my how this brings back memories!!! Fringes on your clothes, bell bottomed jeans, using the word "groovy", and The Brady Bunch. Yes, I remember it all! So imagine how thrilled I was when Heather of Fresh Brewed Designs came out with this girl image called Groovy. I paired it with some fun paper that I had from a kit from Taylored Expressions. Keepin' it simple and keepin' it fun.

Check out the Fresh Brewed Blog for all kinds of news (like a blog hop and DT call) as well as upcoming challenges. Click on the tabs along the top of the page to get all the info. Have a groovy day!!!!

Clear Dollar Stamps Product Parade Day 3

2012-01-09T11:00:00.001-05:00

So how have you been enjoying the product parade so far? Such a marvelous release of stamps at Clear Dollar Stamps, and the show isn't over yet. Here is my card using the stamp set Ark of Faith. I have one small confession to make, coloring is not my thing, and boy is there a boat load to be done on this card -- okay, made you laugh with the "boat load" reference, right?! I wanted the image to shine so I kept it simple just with some layers and pearls.

Here is a beautiful sentiment, God is Love. I paired it with the lovely gold embossed cross from Peace for the Journey. Again, just keeping it simple.

Here is Psalm 46:10. I hit up the piles of scraps that never seem to go away, cut them in 1" strips and attached them to the panel, adding a bit of stitching. I have a little story I want to share about the ribbon on this card - I had won some blog candy on Katie Renz's blog early on in her illness and was able to choose from several bundles of ribbon she was offering. I went with the lovely silk ribbons. She had it packaged up so nice and included a card that I remember having commented on about how beautiful it was. It took a lot of strength to use some of that special ribbon, but I know Katie would have wanted it no other way. And as for her card, I have it on display on a book shelf for all to see.

Now I've got Walk by Faith. Who wouldn't love a pair of beautiful stilettos to strut you stuff in! I used to love super high heels when I was younger. Being short I wore them a lot. Now I'm just older and prefer my athletic shoes! Ahhhhh comfort.

Psalm 37:23. What a perfect sentiment for the shoes shown above!

The last card today makes use of the set Eternity. I cased a bookmark card that I made at our local stamp store, Stamp Fanci. The vellum pocket on the front holds the bookmark that I pulled out to show for the picture. Thanks for the inspiration Margie!

Now be sure and head on over to the CDS blog, Clearly iStamp, to see a slideshow of all the cards and projects created for these stamps. The stamps have been released and are ready for purchase, so get your wish list started!! And I'll see you tomorrow for the last day of our Product Parade.

A Quick Post

2012-01-08T22:57:00.003-05:00

Well I thought better of it, and decided that this was going to be Dad's birthday card! I used a digital stamp from Bugaboo called AKV Men - Golf. Dad doesn't golf anymore like he used to but he still watches it on TV. How anyone can sit and watch it on TV is beyond me!!!! I plan on submitting this for the Catch the Bug Anything Goes challenge. Told you this was going to be a quick post!!!

Clear Dollar Stamps Product Parade Day 2

2012-01-08T11:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome back to Day 2 of our Product Parade at Clear Dollar Stamps. All the new stamps have been released and ready for purchase. All you have to do now is sit back and enjoy the show!! Here is my card for the stamp set You Lift me Up. Just having fun picking out scraps and using my sewing machine on this one!

Next up is an individual sentiment Cute as a Button. I paired it with another stamp set called Baby Bundle. Talk about a perfect pairing.

Here is Dahlia. When I made this card, all I seemed to be working on were Christmas cards, so I went with some bright summery colors for the flower and papers. Boy did this put a smile on my face!

Our final set to show you today is Josephine Clematis. Next time I use this stamp I'll color it the way it's supposed to look - apparently the bottom layer of "petals" are really leaves. Who knew? Well obviously not me, I waited till after I made this to google it and saw pictures. I'm calling this oops creative freedom!!!!

Hope you've been enjoying the projects the Clear Dollar Stamps DT has been showing you. Be sure and check out the CDS blog HERE for all the good stuff! See you back here again tomorrow for Day 3.

Clear Dollar Stamps Product Parade Day 1

2012-01-07T11:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the first day of our Product Parade for the latest release at Clear Dollar Stamps. I have lots to show you over the next four days so grab a cup of coffee and sit down for some fun. First up is the set Toucans of Love and the sentiment Toucan Prayer. I don't think I've ever seen a toucan these colors before, let's just call them hybrids!!!! An almost one layer card, but the sentiment is popped up to help cover up an inky oops!!

The rest of my cards today are making use of all the individual scriptures that are in this release. Here is Valentines John 3:16. Don't you love the vertical highlighting of the word Valentine out of this beautiful scripture.

Next up is Psalm 116:1. The voice that I imagine the Lord hearing is my singing voice, and oh boy, I might be in trouble with that. Of course I don't think I have a bad singing voice, I just don't know what other people think!!!!! I paired this up with another CDS stamp called Sheet Music.

John 15:12 is next. Have you told someone you love them today?

Romans 5:8. When I'm sitting and watching TV, I like to crochet these flowers. I even showed my sister-in-law who has been crocheting for a lifetime how to make them. She laughed when I told her I learned how to crochet from the internet!!!

Luke 12:34. I noticed I was using a lot of pinks on my cards, so I decided to go blue and a little vintage looking. I used the Blooming Bouquet die set and felt for the flower and the scripture is stamped on a die cut from the Cross Messages die set.

And the last card for today shows off the scripture from Deuteronomy 6:5. I cut AND embossed the pinked edge circle with the sentiment which looks like it's been layered. Gotta say, I'm lovin' those stick pins.

Now be sure and come back tomorrow for more projects. And check out the CDS blog, Clearly iStamp for lots of inspiration from the rest of the DT.

For My Valentine

2012-01-06T11:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome back to another Clearly Inspired Challenge. It's a fun one too, so full of love...make a Valentines Day card. For my card I used the January Featured Digital set Conversation Hearts - this is one fabulous set containing colored hearts with and without sentiments, line art heart for you to add your own sentiments, and 3 digital papers. WOW!!! I used the precolored hearts and digital paper, sizing the hearts so I could punch them out in one inch size. Only 3 of them are popped up going down the diagonal to say I Love You. You have two weeks to play along with this challenge before a new one is posted. Then at the end of the month, winners will be announced for some really awesome prizes. Be sure and read all about it HERE on the Clear Dollar Stamps blog.

Tomorrow Clear Dollar Stamps is having this quarter's release of some really lovely new acrylic stamps. We will be showing off samples using these stamps so be sure to come back tomorrow at 11am EST and get ready for some wonderful inspiration.

Stella Says Sketch

2012-01-06T00:16:00.003-05:00

I do love a good sketch challenge. Combine that with my love for Bugaboo Stamps and it's a match made in heaven! Here is the sketch found on the Catch the Bug challenge blog. It was posted on New Years Day and will run for two weeks, so plenty of time to play along.

Here's my card using the following Bugaboo digital stamps: AKV Too Baseball - Batter, AKV Too Basketball - Slam Dunk, and AKV Boxing - Punch. A perfect card for a sports nut...hmmmm, my Dad's birthday is coming up, and he likes sports, hmmmmmm. Well thanks for stopping by. I really should get to bed before I fall asleep here at the computer.

Winter Bird

2012-01-05T03:08:00.000-05:00

With the cold and snow, I've made sure I've kept my feathered friends well fed. The blue jays yell at me every morning because the dish of peanuts in the shell is empty. When I fill it up, they call to all their friends that breakfast has been served and they all come!! I love my birds, so you can imagine how much I love this inspiration photo for our challenge at Paper Lovin' Gals.

And of course I had to include a bird on my card!! This birdie is trying to stay warm with it's winter scarf!! I used a Bugaboo Stamps digital image called Winter Birds - Scarf and tried coloring him up like the inspiration bird. Now let's see what inspires you with our photo. We'd love for you to join us this and every week at Paper Lovin' Gals.

Brrrrrr!

2012-01-04T04:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Yesterday we saw snow and high temp of 20 degrees...brrrrrrr! If you're suffering from the same frigid temps, or even if you're not, stay indoors and start stamping! And while you're at it, join us at Sweet Sketch Wednesday.

Our sponsor this week is Saturated Canary, and the winner will receive two free images. Good luck deciding on just two!!!!!!

And here is exactly what you need for cold winter brrrrrrr days, a hot cup of cocoa. This image from Saturated Canary is called Hot Cocoa, A Chilly Ragamuffin Boy. She also has a girl version that is downright adorable too. I started with some Basic Grey Oliver paper and too my color inspiration from there. Now I sure hope you can join us this week at Sweet Sketch Wednesday. I'm trying to get back into the swing of things now that everyone is back to school...my first task is to remember what day it is!!!!!!! The holidays have really messed me up on that!!!!!

Relax and Unwind!

2012-01-04T03:58:00.000-05:00

That's something we all need to do now that the holidays are over, relax and unwind. And if that involves a spa treatment, well more power to ya!!! This card is for the new month long challenge over at the Fresh Brewed Blog, Something New. Back on Cyber Monday, Heather had a sale on rubber stamps at Fresh Brewed Designs, and I bought the sheet of Sassy Coffee Girls. Shhhhh, don't tell Heather on me, but I haven't inked any of them up yet, until now. So to me, this stamp, called Some Things are Better Rich, is new!! Also, the sequin flower embellishments I've had forever and, like the stamp, have used them for the very first time. It's amazing what you can find in your stash when you take the time to look!! With any month long challenge, a prize is involved, so be sure and play along. You can find out everything you want to know about the challenge on the Fresh Brewed Blog. Hope to see you there.

Bird and Snowman

2012-01-03T04:02:00.001-05:00

Now I know Christmas is over (I still have my tree up though!!), but I had to create with snowman! I think he is adorable! He is a digital stamp from Fresh Brewed Designs called Have a Tweet Christmas. The sentiment was one of the 12 Days of Sentimental Christmas and you can find all twelve HERE. I was hoping by going with non-holiday colors I could get away with using him!! Another quick and easy card, one that is flat because of no embellishments, but still has all those layers I love! I am sending this one off to my niece who lives in Florida...I want to remind her of what she's missing!!!!! She moved to the sunshine state in July from PA so she knows what it's like to tackle the snow and ice.

Tomorrow our new challenge begins on the Fresh Brewed Blog so be sure and come back!! It will be the month long challenge which means a prize is involved!!! How fun!

Love Those Bunny Slippers

2012-01-02T17:43:00.002-05:00

Well the snow has arrived, boo hoo. But it's supposed to warm up into the 40's so it will all be gone, HOORAY!! Nothing keeps you warmer than a big warm blanket and a pair of fuzzy bunny slippers. I love this colored digital from Clear Dollar Stamps. You can find it HERE. It is also available in acrylic stamp form too. I'm using the sketch from Card Positioning Systems, and CDS is the sponsor this week!!! Totally fabulous!! This card was quick and easy but with the layers that I love. I'm mailing it off to my niece at college to say "hello" and "stay warm."

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T01:48:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year!!!! We were watching a movie that went well past midnight, but stopped it for a few seconds just to wish everyone a happy new year. Above is a photo for inspiration for this week's Catch the Bug challenge.

I was inspired by the new year theme as well as the lady's lovely red dress. Here is Margaret Calendar Month - January from Bugaboo Stamps. Doesn't she look marvelous in her red dress and diamond earrings and bracelet!! So fun to make, but I really must get some mojo back and start crankin' out more cards for my DT requirements. I took this whole "take a break" over the holidays a little too seriously!! Enjoy your day and thanks for stopping by.

Snowman Love

2011-12-31T11:27:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year's Eve! Hard to believe we are about to say good-bye to 2011. Where did it go? I wanted to share my anniversary card for my parents. Their anniversary is next month so some snowman love is perfect! This image is from Fresh Brewed Designs, a digital called Snow in Love. I used my copics on it along with a little Stickles. The sketch is from a new challenge blog called Seems a Little Sketchy. Their sketches are every other Monday so you still have time to play along since this is the first week. You also have time to play along with the Christmas themed month long challenge over at the Fresh Brewed Blog.

Enjoy your last day of this year. Stay safe and best of everything in 2012.

I've Got the Blues

2011-12-29T03:01:00.000-05:00

Hello and Happy Thursday! Wow, hard to believe it will very soon be 2012! I feel like I just got the hang of writing 2011 for the year!! Since it's Thursday, that means a new challenge over at Paper Lovin' Gals. Here is your photo to find inspiration from. Isn't it fabulous?!

And here's my card using the two shades of blue (Pacific point and Tempting turquoise) and the general layout of the rosettes. I turned it into a birthday card 'cause I needed one!!! Now I am so anxious to see what everyone else comes up with, because this photo REALLY gave me grief! You all are such an inspiration to me. I want to wish all of you a very Happy and Safe New Year!

Hello My Feathered Friends

2011-12-28T03:01:00.000-05:00

I do love my feathered friends. I have an array of bird feeders for different types of birds. With a wooded back yard and waterfall amongst the landscape, birds of all kinds come and say "hello" at my feeders. I had to move the vast array of feeders that I have onto my deck because the deer were forever eating it all when they were in the yard. Only one problem, I now have squirrels and raccoons climbing up onto my deck to eat out of the feeders. I have to bring them inside at night because I'll take a squirrel over a night time scavenger of a raccoon any day!

Believe me, my bird story does have a purpose on this Sweet Sketch Wednesday of a day. Our sketch is another winner...and speaking of winner, this week our sponsor is...

A Day for Daisies. The prize up for grabs is a $12 gift certificate for the store of A Day for Daisies.

Now here's my card and the reason behind my bird story! This sweet image is called Birds for Bree. I used Copic markers to bring her to life as well as the beautiful Basic Grey papers Picadilly. I thought of a few of the birds that visit me everyday and decided to color these birds the same way for Bree! Thanks for stopping by and be sure to check out what the rest of the Sweet Sketch Wednesday DT members created, they are sure to inspire.

Happy Snowflakes

2011-12-25T21:59:00.003-05:00

And I hope you had a wonderful Christmas day! With the kids being a little older, the need to get up at the crack of dawn to open presents is no longer...thank goodness!! I found my way into my craft room this evening and made a card for the Catch the Bug challenge - red, pink, blue and a touch of glitter. I used the Bugaboo Stamps fabulous image Snowman Bells. All my papers, card stock and designer, were once again from my scrap bin!!! LOVE IT!!

We're traveling tomorrow to my parents for the holiday. The weather sounds like it will cooperate, which is always a good thing!

Hello Friend

2011-12-24T23:50:00.003-05:00

And Merry Christmas!! Okay, it's Christmas Eve at this very moment, but the house is so quiet, the presents are wrapped and under the tree, and I got it all done before 2am!!!!! HOORAY!! I got my PaperTrey Ink order today and had to play with my new filigree border punch. Isn't it beautiful?!! On my desk was this digi and sentiment, both from Clear Dollar Stamps. The flamingo is from the Tall Trio Color and the sentiment is from Turtle Greetings. A perfect little card to send to a friend with a nice note inside. Sure beats getting bills in the mail all the time!!!! Anyway, I'm off to make some popcorn and watch a movie, don't know what it will be. Have a wonderful Christmas morning opening up all those presents!!!! I know I will!!!

So Much Inspiration

2011-12-22T03:01:00.000-05:00

What a festive picture! What inspires you? That's what our challenge is all about at Paper Lovin' Gals, use whatever speaks to you from a photo and create something with it. I loved the Christmas trees and the colors, greens and silver. Let me tell ya though, I wish someone would come to my house and decorate like this for the holidays!!

Here's my card with a silver embossed tree, several greens and brushed silver card stock. The tree is from an old Stampin' Up set called Scandinavian Season...a must have stamp set for me that I don't think ever saw ink until now!!!!! How sad is that??!! A simple card with lots of texture and shine. Now please join us this week for our challenge, we love seeing what you create. And tell all your friends about our weekly inspirational challenges at Paper Lovin' Gals.

Merry & Bright

2011-12-21T03:00:00.001-05:00

So, are you ready for Christmas? I am far from it!!! But I'm still in the spirit of Christmas card making!!!! And it all started with this fabulous sketch from Arlana of Sweet Sketch Wednesday.

This week is our ever popular and very generous sponsor Digi Stamp Boutique. Sally Ann is offering the winner 6 FREE digital stamps of their choosing!!! All I can say to that is...WOW!!!

And here is my card using the totally adorable image Sketchy Snow Person. If you love snowmen like me, then this is a must have!!!! My colors of card stock include brown, red and green while my dsp is scraps I found on my desk from another project that ended up being rejected!!!! They worked great together here! I hope you can find some time to play our sketch challenge this week.

The Night Before Christmas

2011-12-20T04:00:00.000-05:00

I know, it isn't Christmas Eve yet, and thank goodness for that because I am far from ready!!! I have seen some challenges in the past asking to use non-holiday stamps and turn them into a Christmas card. As soon as I saw this image from Fresh Brewed Designs called Night Owl I knew exactly what I wanted to do. This owl brought to mind that wonderful poem "The Night Before Christmas." I thought of the line at the beginning: "And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled down for a long winter's nap." If you want to read the whole poem, check out my post on the Fresh Brewed Blog. The sentiment was one of our freebies in the 12 Days of a Sentimental Christmas. I hope you had scooped all of them up because you should now have a wonderful array of holiday sentiments.

I finished baking all my Christmas cookies...finally. They really seemed like a chore this year. Now I need to finish up my shopping and do more wrapping. It's not like I don't know when Christmas is every year, but I never seem to ever be ready!!!! Thanks for stopping by.

White as Snow

2011-12-18T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hello and welcome to this month's Clear Dollar Stamps Blog Hop. This month's theme is "White as Snow." Now you should have arrived here from Christi's blog. If not, please head back to the CDS blog to start at the beginning. A blog hop always means a fun prize and this one is no different. A winner will be chosen randomly from one of the DTs' blogs, so increase your chances by commenting on them all!!

Like I said, the theme this month is "White as Snow." I have been so lovin' the white on white cards I've been seeing in galleries and on blogs that I had to give it a whirl. I used the stamp set Christmas Scriptures and followed the sketch from Seems a Little Sketchy. You have no idea how hard it was for me not to add color, but I stuck to it and kept it white!! The three different embossing folders helped as did popping up the sentiment layer as well as the very bottom layer to the main card.

This is your last stop on our hop today. I want to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I am still trying to get ready for it all, guess I'd better hurry!!!

Warm and Fuzzy

2011-12-17T04:00:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness, I found this card that I made last weekend and realized I never posted here on my blog!!! It was made for the Warm & Fuzzy challenge for last weekend's VSN at SCS (that stands for Virtual Stamp Night at Split Coast Stampers!!!). I used from Clear Dollar Stamps a pre-colored digital image from Bunny Slippers. I pulled out some paper scraps to make up this card, adding a little ribbon and tiny white pearls. Oh, and it's my favorite size of card too, 4.25" square. Speaking of Clear Dollar Stamps, we are having our monthly blog hop tomorrow starting at 11am EST, so hope to see your there!!

I'm hoping to get the last of my Christmas cookies baked this weekend. Only 5 more kinds to go!! Three are bar cookies so they will get done super fast, one is no bakes, and the last one is a drop cookie that makes a large batch of yumminess!! So not too bad!! Wish me luck!!!

My Snowman

2011-12-16T04:00:00.000-05:00

Today marks the final day of our 12 Days of a Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs! I sure hope you have scooped up each and every one of 'em! And a little elf told me there might be more than one freebie today!!!!! HOORAY!! Check it out HERE. I know you're tired of hearing me say how much I love snowmen, but I do!!! So this sentiment was perfect for me to use with the fabulous image My Snowman. And did you notice, it's on sale too!!! Thank you so much for visiting and leaving such wonderful comments. Now I'm going to ask that you thank Heather, owner and artist of Fresh Brewed Designs, for her kindness and generosity during these 12 days of free sentiments and images. Leave a comment on today's post at the Fresh Brewed Blog...and tell her Linda sent ya!!!! Hehe!

Digi Day

2011-12-15T11:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, this is my third post for today, so be sure and browse your way thru them all!! Today is digi release day at Clear Dollar Stamps!!! It was hard holding back from spilling the beans earlier about these images, they are all soooooo wonderful. Check 'em all out HERE on the CDS blog. This card uses Window Box Wishes Color. You may recall this as an acrylic stamp, well now it is in digi form!! I love using the color versions of digi stamps as well as the coordinating papers, it makes for one quick card!!

Here is my "what else can I do with this set" card for the Christmas Cupcake Wrappers. I printed off the wrapper three times, cut it out, scored it and folded them all. I then used score it tape and adhered my three sections together and formed a rosette. Let me tell you, it took lots and lots of manipulating to get this in a somewhat round shape!! If you try this, be patient!!! The Merry Christmas circle center is also from the set as is the coordinating paper. The pink strip with all the rhinestones on was strategically placed to try to cover up two of my three seams.

And now we move on the Valentine's Day with Heart Hugs. Again I used the color version and lots of scrap papers!!! I was on such a roll with making cards that I ended up using the thank you sentiment that is part of this set instead of the Happy Valentine's Day. I hate when I do dumb things like that! And what's worse, it took me several days to realize my mistake!!!!! I'll blame it on holiday stress!

Speaking of the holidays, sure hope your preparations for it are going smoothly. I always say I work better under pressure and that's why I'm never prepared ahead of time! Well the pressure is getting to me so it's time to sit back, take a deep breath, and remember the true meaning of the Season. Happy Birthday Jesus!!!

Merry Christmas Baby

2011-12-15T04:00:00.000-05:00

It's the last two days of our Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs. As you can see, the freebie today is "Merry Christmas Baby," and you can find it HERE. I paired this sentiment up with Snow in Love. Aren't they a really cool couple??!! I went with paper that was sitting right on my paper cutter in hopes of using it up, but no such luck. I was also a bit distracted when making this, I was watching "Top Chef" at the time. I am pitiful, I know!!! Can't wait to see what you create with this sentiment. Be sure to post it to our Christmas theme challenge over at the Fresh Brewed Blog. And this is my second of three posts for today so be sure and check 'em all out!!

Christmas Goodies - YUM!

2011-12-15T03:01:00.000-05:00

Yes, I make loads of cookies every year for Christmas, but believe me, they never look like this, beautiful AND delicious!! Welcome to another photo inspiration challenge from Paper Lovin' Gals. What inspires you? The first thing that came to mind for me was the snowman...and I love snowmen!

So a snowman it is!! I guess I should clarify myself by saying I love all snowmen, except the kind I have to go outside in the cold, cold snow and make myself!!!! I was warm and cozy inside when I made this one with a die and coordinating stamp set from PaperTrey Ink. I used the colors from the photo too, blue and green. I just might have to make a few more of these and use as my Christmas thank yous! Good idea!! Now be sure to head on over to Paper Lovin' Gals and play along. Make something quick and easy in between your batches of cookies too!!!! Nothin' says lovin' like homemade cookies from the oven!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-14T04:01:00.000-05:00

Here we are onto Day 10 of our Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs. Your freebie today is the sentiment "Merry Christmas." I paired it with a newly release digital image called Santa - Coffee Lover. I turned this into a gift card holder.

Here's a pic of it open with the fun surprise inside. This had to be the the absolute easiest gift card holder to make, ever!! You can find the video tutorial for it HERE. This is definitely something I can make over and over again and give to all my coffee lovin' friends! Pick up your freebie today and create your own project with it, then join us for the Christmas theme challenge at the Fresh Brewed Blog.

Sweet Santa

2011-12-14T03:00:00.000-05:00

It won't be long till we hear sleigh bells in the night sky and the Ho Ho Ho of sweet Santa. But what you will see even sooner is the awesome challenge we have for you at Sweet Sketch Wednesday. It's actually a blast from the past sketch that we bring out once a month for your challenging pleasure!!! And like every week, we have a wonderful sponsor, and this week it's Bugaboo Stamps.

Everything That You Ever Wanted to Know About Bugaboo Stamps: As if raising five children in the frozen land of the North was not enough of a challenge, Jodie Mackrell decided to dip her cold little Canadian toes into the world of paper crafting by opening an online store full of her illustrations. That was two years ago. Today Bugaboo Stamps is one of the leading companies in digital images, and we're still growing! From seriously snarky to sugary sweet to sublimely soulful all the way over to the other side of the super sexy spectrum, you're bound to find all that you need and more to create your paper projects. Jodie works very hard to provide New Releases and Freebies every week!

If your taste runs to rubber (and you know who you are), you can find Bugaboo Stamps stamps at Totally Stampalicious. And finally, join the Bugaboo Stamps DT for weekly challenges at Catch the Bug.

Yes, you see this right, the grand prize winner will receive 7 free digis of their choice!!!! How amazing is that??!!

Now I had the pleasure of working with Stocking Santa Star...isn't he fabulous? I don't think I've ever met a Bugaboo image that I didn't like!! My card is pretty straight forward. My flowers along the bottom were created with a punch that I had no idea I had!!!! Amazing the things you'll find when you clean up your space around you!!!!! Each flower consists of two punched flowers and a rhinestone brad. Be sure and check out what the rest of the DT has created at Sweet Sketch Wednesday and leave 'em a little love.

Let it Snow

2011-12-13T04:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it, today is Day 9 of our 12 Days of a Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs. As you can see, Heather has another fun freebie for you, "Let it Snow" and it can be found HERE. I paired it up with another newly release digital image called Girl With a Snowman. It's been great fun making these cards, I get to use up some of my scraps. About 2 months ago I had challenged myself to not buy any more designer paper until my birthday...in September!!!!!! Do you know how many wonderful holiday papers are out there now?!! I'm sure you do, 'cause you bought them!!!!! Hehehe!! And I know there won't be any fabulous papers next year...just kidding!! But I have been strong and not purchased any. I'll let you know how I'm doing in the many months to come.

Now hurry on over to Fresh Brewed Designs and scoop up your free sentiment. Then create something with it and join us for our month long Christmas theme challenge at the Fresh Brewed Blog.

Up on the Housetop

2011-12-12T22:38:00.002-05:00

I DID IT!!! I completed the 12 Days of Christmas mini challenges over at Bugaboo Stamps challenge blog, Catch the Bug. "On the 12th day of Christmas my true love gave to me, 12 drummers drumming." And the challenge was to use a Christmas song as inspiration. The instant I saw this image when it was first released, I started singing "Up on the Housetop." This image is called AKV Santa - Chimney and can be found HERE. And you too can sing along with the lyrics to the song here:

Up on the housetop reindeer pause
Out jumps good old Santa Claus
Down thru the chimney with lots of toys
All for the little ones, Christmas joys

Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn't go?
Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn't go?
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down thru the chimney with good Saint Nick

First comes the stocking of little Nell
Oh, dear Santa fill it well
Give her a dolly that laughs and cries
One that will open and shut her eyes

Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn't go?
Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn't go?
Upon on the housetop, click, click, click
Down thru the chimney with good Saint Nick

Look in the stocking of little Will
Oh, just see what a glorious fill!
Here is a hammer and lots of tacks
Whistle and ball and a whip that cracks

Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn't go?
Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn't go?
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down thru the chimney with good Saint Nick

Christmas Kisses

2011-12-12T04:00:00.000-05:00

And warm winter wishes. I can't believe it is Day 8 of our Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs. And another day means a different sentiment absolutely FREE, for today only. You can find this freebie HERE, so be sure to scoop it up. Sometimes Heather slips in something else for free, so don't miss your chance at some yummy goodness!! I paired this sentiment up with the newly released digital image Boy With Candy Cane. At first I thought about paper piecing his sweater or scarf then decided to just add texture by using my colorless blender Copic marker. I attempted a plaid which at first looked goofy, so I colored over it. Then I tried again and came up with this design and said "okay, stop, no more!!" Now I can't wait to see how you use this sentiment. Remember, our month long challenge at the Fresh Brewed Blog is Christmas, so be sure to enter.

Masculine Plaid

2011-12-11T23:07:00.004-05:00

My title tells you what the theme is for days 10 and 11 of the 12 Days of Christmas mini challenges over at Bugaboo's challenge blog, Catch the Bug. Day 10 was to make a masculine card, and nothing says masculine more than a boy sitting in a candy cane dressed up like an elf!!! And if he can pull it off, that's my kind of guy!!!!!! I used the digital image Deacon Christmas - Candy Cane. Still doing the layering I love but trying to keep the embellishments to a minimum. I am also submitting this to the photo inspiration challenge being held at Crafty Sprouts which Bugaboo just happens to be sponsoring!!! I was inspired by the candy cane portion of the picture.

Next is day 11, use plaid. I ended up paper piecing this snow tuber's coat and hat with plaid paper. Looks like they're having fun! This image can be found HERE. I'm using the sketch from this weekend's VSN over at Split Coast Stampers in which it represents a snow globe. Again I used non holiday designer paper but the colors seemed so perfect. One more day and this mini challenge will be complete. I can't believe I have stayed with it from beginning to almost the end! For a chance at some free Bugaboo images, I'll do anything!!! Hehehe!!

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2011-12-11T04:00:00.000-05:00

I'm back with a new freebie to show you from Fresh Brewed Designs. Isn't it fabulous??!! You can pick yours up today HERE. This is part of our 12 Days of a Sentimental Christmas. I hope you've been with us everyday and scooping up your freebies. There were some days that an extra free digi was thrown in just for fun!! I paired the sentiment up with the adorable Angel Cake and Mr. Snowman. I loved the bright fun colors of the dsp and just went with it! The days here have been colder, in the 30's. I dread the snow and super cold temps, I am so not a winter person!! Yesterday the sun was shining, and even though it was in the low 30's, I hung some laundry up outside...boy did it smell good when I brought it in. I got another batch of Christmas cookies baked last night too - nothin' says lovin' like chocolate chip cookies from the oven!!!! I am always minus a few cookies because they never make it into the oven 'cause I eat the dough!! YUM!!!!! See you tomorrow.

Sentimental Christmas Day 6

2011-12-10T04:00:00.000-05:00

So how have you been enjoying our Sentimental Christmas, 12 days of freebie Christmas sentiments from Fresh Brewed Designs? I know I've been having a blast creating with them! Today's sentiment can be found HERE, but it will only be there for one day, and if you miss it, don't worry, it will be in the shop for purchase. I wanted to highlight this lovely sentiment so I didn't pair it with an image. I also tried to keep the embellishments down to minimum to let the verbage shine. Don't forget our Christmas monthly challenge over at the Fresh Brewed Blog too. We have so much going on and it is all so fun!!!!

Giggles and Mery Wishes!

2011-12-09T23:30:00.003-05:00

I am back on track with the 12 Days of Christmas mini challenges over at Catch the Bug. I fell behind a day but now here are the latest two. "On the 8th day of Christmas my true love gave to me, eight maids a milking." The challenge was to use the theme MILK AND COOKIES. I used the digital stamp Kitchen Ginger - Chocolate Chip from Bugaboo Stamps. This reminds me, I need to get going on my Christmas cookie baking, or poor Santa won't have any when he comes down our chimney!!! YIKES!! Now I know this image is from the Kitchen Ginger line, but it reminds me of the Pillsbury dough boy!!! Hehehe!!

"On the 9th day of Christmas my true love gave to me, nine ladies dancing." Today's challenge, make a FEMININE CARD. I used the image Christmas Prim Angel. I am far from a girly girl. As a kid Mom made me wear dresses to school, but I would sneak on a pair of shorts under the dress because I played football with the boys at recess!!! Poor Mom, she always wanted a girl, but she got a tomboy instead! So no pink here!! I got a country vibe from this darling little angel, so blues and reds it had to be. I decided to make a tent card, something I haven't made for awhile. Hey, I added a little glam with Stickles, so a feminine card it is!!!

Mistletoe

2011-12-09T04:00:00.002-05:00

Day five of our 12 Days of Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs. I sure hope you've been checking in with us each day and scooped up your your freebie sentiment. And did you notice the fun new freebie yesterday? Fabulous wasn't it!!!! Now start creating with your new sentiments and show up what you've got made! You can find today's freebie HERE. Our month long challenge at the Fresh Brewed Blog is Christmas, so how perfect is that?!! As you can see the freebie is "I want to kiss you under the mistletoe," and I paired it with the gorgeous Kiss Me Santa Baby digital stamp. A fun and simple card, something I've been trying to do with Christmas cards.

Peace on Earth

2011-12-09T00:57:00.003-05:00

I've been trying to stay on track with the 12 Days of Christmas mini challenges over at Bugaboo Stamps challenge blog, Catch the Bug. The challenge for day 7 was to use the above photo for inspiration.

I liked the colors so kept it with the green and red color combo. I used Bugaboo's Bobblehead Christmas Elf. I just bought this image, and at a 50% savings!!! The sketch is from

OWH's Sunday Sketch challenge. Now to go work on Day 8...maybe tomorrow, too tired right now.

Winter Wonderland

2011-12-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

I am so not ready for cold and snow! I really would be happy for one day of snow, and that's on Christmas. Guess I need to move for that to become a reality!!! Anyway, here we are at Day 4 of our Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs. For 12 days Heather is offering a different Christmas sentiment absolutely FREE...and I'm going to let you in on a little secret, she might include another freebie sometime so be sure and check it out everyday HERE. I paired the freebie "Winter Wonderland" with the digi Tommy's Snowball Fight. Nothing says winter more than a good snowball fight!! And I'd be happy watching it from indoors!!!!!

Good Tidings

2011-12-08T03:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to another Photo Inspiration Challenge at Paper Lovin' Gals. What a gorgeous pic, don't you think?! So rustic, so calm. But I have to admit to you, I was not calm when it came to creating my card for this photo!!!!! I had a difficult time pinpointing my inspiration, if that makes any sense. I ended up going with the pine green and red colors as well as the snow.

And here it is, and it went together lickety split quick too, thanks to die cuts and embossing folders. I used a Papertrey Ink stamp set called In the Meadow and the coordinating dies for both the stamped images as well as the snow banks. I embossed the mounds of snow with the Swiss Dot embossing folder and the bottom layer with the Snowflakes folder. The smaller "hill" is popped up for that wonderful yummy dimension. I had stamped the sentiment prior to embossing, love that effect. Some Stickles and I am done! Quick to make but oh so stressful to think up!!! Now be sure to check out what the rest of the DT created and join us at Paper Lovin' Gals.

Ahhhhh Christmas...

2011-12-07T04:00:00.000-05:00

It is the most wonderful time of the year!!!! Actually, that's the sentiment that you will find free today as part of our 12 Days of a Sentimental Christmas over at Fresh Brewed Designs. Now remember, it will be free for today only, so be sure and scoop it up HERE. Now yesterday Heather snuck in a snowman freebie too, so who knows what you will find each day, so be sure and stop back often. This card is also for our new monthly challenge over at the Fresh Brewed Blog where Christmas is our theme. I used the freebie sentiment along with the digital image A Snowman's Gift. I used Copic markers on him as well as a glitter pen to add the polka dots to his scarf. Another challenge to myself was to use non-Christmas papers - hearts and flowers are definitely not Christmasy, but definitely fun!!!!

Sassy and Sweet Santa

2011-12-07T03:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday!! Not only is it "over the hump day," but it's also a new challenge at Sweet Sketch Wednesday. And what a marvelous sketch it is!!!!! Gorgeous Arlana, as always.

Our fabulous sponsor this week is Sassy Cheryl's. You really must check out her digital store! So much fun and whimsy, that's for sure. The prize this week for our winner is a $5 gift certificate to the Sassy Cheryl's store.

Here's my card using the image Jumping Jack Santa. He's doing some exercising to get himself ready for his big production Christmas Eve! I just wanted to use some different colors to go along with these papers that I wish I could remember who they were from!!! Join us this week, we always love to see what you create!

Dear Santa, Define Good!

2011-12-06T20:51:00.003-05:00

Hehe!!! Who doesn't love the sarcasm of Stella?!! You can find this and lots of other Stella digital stamps at Bugaboo Stamps. The one I used is called Stella Christmas - Good. I'm submitting this card for Day 6 of the mini Christmas challenges they are having at the Catch the Bug Blog. Today's challenge, humor! Stella always makes me chuckle so how perfect.

In the Meadow we can Build a Snowman

2011-12-06T04:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Day 2 of our Sentimental Christmas freebies at Fresh Brewed Designs. I love snowmen!! I have a small collection of them that come out every Christmas to be put on display. Heather has a bunch of snowmen in the store, and I used Hearts and Stars Snowman to pair up with this sentiment. Now take a good look at this card, what do you see??? NO DESIGNER PAPER!!!!! I know, I can't believe it either!! Just some fun non-traditional colors of cardstock that I embossed with a snowflake folder. Now be sure to scoop up your free sentiment today only, you can find it HERE. Be sure and create something with it, show it off, and tell all your friends about our 12 days of Sentimental Christmas at Fresh Brewed Designs.

On the 5th Day of Christmas...

2011-12-05T22:43:00.002-05:00

My true love gave to me, 5 golden rings. Believe it or not, I'm still chuggin' away at the mini Christmas challenges over at Catch the Bug. Today's challenge is to use gold. I have gold brads and gold paper layered under the dp. The Bugaboo Stamps digital image I used is the AKV Reindeer Skate. Why is it just when I am almost done with a card does a splotch appear out of nowhere!!! UGH, so frustrating!!! Luckily I was able to cover it up with my sentiment, and a hug is what I needed!! I had fun using some non-Christmas paper that somehow still worked!

Have YOU Been Good This Year?

2011-12-05T04:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our 12 Days of Christmas, sentimentally speaking! Normally on the first Monday of every month, you are reading a post from me about a freebie over at Fresh Brewed Designs called Mocha Manic Monday. In the spirit of the holiday, we are changing things up a bit. We are having 12 days of Mocha Manic freebies, all Christmas sentiments! Heather has even threatened to mix in some other freebies here and there as well...she's sneaky like that! Now the sentiment will be free for that day only and there will be a different one everyday for 12 days. If you miss a day, don't worry, they will be in the store for purchase. Today's sentiment, "Have you been good this year" I have paired with the totally adorable Nice List Girl. I used my gold gel pen to color in her jingle bells and belt buckle. A fun layout, some simple embellies, my favorite sewing, a super sentiment, and my card is complete. Now scoop up your freebie today HERE and make something fun. Head over to the Fresh Brewed Blog for more about our 12 days of a sentimental Christmas.

4 Calling Birds

2011-12-04T22:24:00.003-05:00

"On the 4th day of Christmas my true love gave to me, four calling birds..." Wonder what birds have to say when they call?! I am on a roll with the mini challenges over at Catch the Bug. The challenge today called for a bird to be on your project. I used the digital image Poppi Christmas Tree from Bugaboo Stamps. Today was a busy day but I don't seem to have a lot to show for it. Just one card? Yep, that's all I got done. But I did get a wonderful surprise...I am this week's Featured Stamper over at Split Coast Stampers!!! Talk about an honor and a thrill! That truly made my day. Come back tomorrow for another fun 12 Days of Christmas that you won't want to miss.

Merry Wishes

2011-12-03T19:07:00.003-05:00

" On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me, three French hens..." Yep, I'm still singing the song 'cause it's the theme for the mini challenges over at Catch the Bug. Today's challenge is to use an animal. I found Rudy in my stash of digi images that I already had printed off so I colored him up with Copics and put him on a clean and simple card. This Bugaboo Stamps image is called Rudolph Stars and can be found HERE. I'm off to get dinner made then back to my stamp room. Got lots to do!!!!

Some Christmas Love

2011-12-02T20:29:00.003-05:00

"On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me, two turtle doves..." Yes, it's the second day of mini challenges over at Catch the Bug and we had to use the theme love. Don't you just "love" this adorable Bugaboo Stamps image Ava Christmas - Mistletoe Fairy?! I know I do!! And the sketch is from a brand new challenge blog that Bugaboo Stamps happens to be sponsoring, Seems a Little Sketchy. I'll enter this card there for yet another chance to win some Bugaboo Stamps!!!!!!! I wonder what Day 3 will bring?!

Bugaboo's 12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-01T23:21:00.002-05:00

Today starts the 12 Days of Christmas Challenges on the Bugaboo Stamps blog, Catch the Bug. There will be mini challenges for the next twelve days based on the song 12 Days of Christmas. Today was the first line: "On the 1st day of Christmas my true love gave to me, a partridge in a pear tree." Yes, I was singing it as I was typing!!! The challenge was to use a tree on our card. I used this digital image from Bugaboo Stamps called AKV Santa - Tree. I used my Copic markers and several scraps of dsp. Now I can't wait to see what tomorrow's challenge will be!!!

Very Merry Christmas

2011-12-01T03:01:00.000-05:00

What a gorgeous picture!!! What do you see first? Is it the colors, the Christmas theme, the stockings hung by the fireplace? That's what our challenges are all about at Paper Lovin' Gals, using a photo to inspire your creativity. I used to be very intimidated by photo inspiration challenges, but now I'm finding I love 'em because there's no wrong answer.

The colors are what caught my attention first. Then when I saw this pre-colored digital stamp set from Clear Dollar Stamps called Loves Ornament, I knew I had my inspiration! Amazing how some things so right seem to fall out of the sky!! And no, I'm not talking snowflakes!!!!!! I used 2 of the 3 digital papers that are included in this set...aren't the colors perfect?! I know, another Christmas card, but 'tis the season. Enjoy your day and join us for this week's photo inspiration challenge at Paper Lovin' Gals.

Let It Snow

2011-11-30T04:00:00.001-05:00

I am having so much fun making Christmas cards! I especially adore snowmen and this little guy is a new Fresh Brewed Designs digi called A Snowman Christmas. This card is for our new challenge over at the Fresh Brewed Blog to use fabric or felt. I die cut the three flowers out of felt and topped it with a button and twine for a fun embellie. Be sure and join us for this new challenge, we always love seeing what you create. Speaking of wonderful creations, take a peek at what the rest of the DT did for this challenge HERE on the Fresh Brewed Blog.

Which Way to the North Pole?

2011-11-30T03:00:00.002-05:00

Christmas sure is on its way!! Songs are playing in all the stores (along with crazed shoppers!!), the neighborhood is all lit up, and all my favorite winter flavored coffees are in at Starbucks!!! To help you out on boosting some mojo for those wonderful Christmas cards, we have a wonderful new sketch here at Sweet Sketch Wednesday.

Not only do we have a fabulous sketch, but we also have a very generous sponsor this week. A big round of applause for Di's Digi Downloads!! The prize up for grabs is a gift voucher valued at $10. This is fantastic because all of her images are $2 - $2.50. Of course, as the winner, you can choose more than the dollar amount and simply pay the difference.

I had a blast playing with this adorable image, "Which Way." You can find it HERE under the Seasons and Holidays section. I love, love, love snowmen, so of course I was drawn to this image immediately. The only problem is, Di has so many snowmen to choose from!!! So there's another reason to play along with us this week at Sweet Sketch Wednesday. Remember, to be eligible for the prize you must make a comment on our challenge blog. Thanks for stopping by, be sure and check out what the rest of the DT created.

Under the Mistletoe

2011-11-29T04:00:00.000-05:00

I fell in love with this image the moment I saw it! It's a new digi from Fresh Brewed Designs called Kiss Me - Santa Baby. Heather has released a bunch of new digis and they all can be found HERE. You may notice that my image is "flipped." To find out how I did that with just a few extra clicks of the mouse, check out today's Fresh Brewed Blog post. I made a gatefold card, soon becoming a huge favorite of mine. If you own a Scor-pal, the markings for the score lines are right on it, making this a quick and easy card to create.

Wonky Merry Christmas

2011-11-27T04:00:00.000-05:00

Well the lights are up outside as well as the huge lit wreath above the garage...and now my hubby is done with Christmas preparations! Everything else is left up to me!!!!! That's why I am soooooo stressed over the holidays. Here's a card I made using a Fresh Brewed Designs digital called Wonky Christmas Tree. This is my kinda Christmas card, nothing about it is "traditional."

I also wanted to be sure you were aware of the BIG CYBER MONDAY SALE that will be happening tomorrow at Fresh Brewed Designs. You can do some fun shopping in your pj's with your coffee and bagel (or is that just me who sits in front of the computer first thing in the morning that way?!). I have a few rubber stamps I've had my eye on that will be on sale!!! Oh what fun!!!!

Bugaboo Christmas

2011-11-25T14:41:00.002-05:00

So how is everyone feeling today? Still stuffed? Tired from shopping early...or was it late?? I popped into my room and made a quick card with this adorable Bugaboo Stamps image called AKV Christmas - Girl Tree. Did you notice...no designer paper!!! I pulled out some embossing folders instead. Now head on over to Bugaboo Stamps, they have a sale going on, but it ends tonight!!! I'm off to make a purchase myself, maybe I'll see you there!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T03:01:00.000-05:00

Ahhhhh yes, a day of eating and lying around watching football! I am thankful for so many, many things, like football and lots of good food!! What's on the menu at your house? Today I want to welcome you to another photo inspiration challenge over at Paper Lovin' Gals. Hope you can join us this week, we would love to see you. What inspires you with this photo?

I went with the Thanksgiving theme and colors. I used a digital stamp from Fresh Brewed Designs called Fall Harvest. I colored the image with copics and sponged blue ink around it while it was still in the nestie after cutting and embossing. The colors are Pumpkin pie, More mustard, Old olive and Chocolate chip. The piece of designer paper is, you guessed it, from my scrap bin! I made a pledge to myself to not buy any more patterned paper and so far so good. It's barely been a month though, but have you seen the fabulous papers out there for the holidays!!!!! They're gorgeous!!!! Stop, breathe, you can do this, you are strong. I will continue to remind myself of this when I get the urge to buy!

Thanks for stopping by on this wonderful day. Enjoy your time with family and friends as well as all that good food!!!!

A Whimsical Sweet Wednesday

2011-11-23T04:00:00.000-05:00

A sweet Wednesday it is!! I am off to do a little Christmas shopping today, so wish me luck! Be sure and join us this week for another fabulous Sweet Sketch Wednesday. We are actually bringing back and oldie but a goodie of a sketch this week.

We have a wonderful sponsor this week, Whimsie Doodles. The prize is a $10 gift certificate for the Whimsie Doodles store. Here is a little bio about Whimsie Doodles:

Whimsie Doodles is so excited to be sponsoring the new challenge! In March of 2009 Melyssa Connolly, artist and owner, began turning her whimsical hand-drawn images into digital files for sale online. Whimsie Doodles' digital stamp line features images that range from cute little boys and girls, to punny stuff, and everything in-between. We enjoy sharing lots of samples on our company blog, where we also post challenges and tutorials.

Special Offer:

A special offer for Sweet Sketch Wednesday fans - use the discount code SwtWed10 at the Whimsie Doodles online store and receive 10% off your next order! Code expires 30 days from today.

Here is my card using the adorable image Santa Leah. She is such a sweetie in her holiday sparkly clothes!! I had fun pulling out scraps of designer papers that may not be meant for a Christmas card, but today, they sure helped turn it into one!! Be sure and check out what the rest of the Sweet Sketch Wednesday team created. And don't forget to leave a comment when you've posted your card to be eligible for the prize!!

I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. If you're not a football fan, be sure and come back tomorrow, I will have a card to share!

You Rock!!

2011-11-23T03:00:00.001-05:00

Hooray, it's Wednesday! My oldest starts his Thanksgiving break today, so I'm taking him shopping for Christmas. The boy is starting to dress up a little nicer for school and totally enjoys all the compliments his clothes are getting him (especially from the girls!!). We are not going shopping on Friday, I avoid the stores at all costs! Our Fresh Brewed Challenge starting today is in honor of Black Friday. Since I'm not the shopper, I chose to go with "black" and use one of the newly released fun and funky cake digitals from Fresh Brewed Designs called You Rock Cake. My only embellishment, if you want to call it that, is Stickles. A good mailable card!!

As you know, the Monday after Thanksgiving is called Cyber Monday. More sales can be found that day without even needing to leave your home! How fun to shop in your jammies! Fresh Brewed Designs is having a sale, even on rubbah, so don't miss it!!!!

Katie's Celebrate Life Blog Hop

2011-11-22T11:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our "Celebrate Life Blog Hop", our tribute to our Design Team Coordinator here at Clear Dollar Stamps, Katie Renz. Katie was the founder and creator of the Tuesday Tutorials HERE on the CDS blog. We decided to not only hold this blog hop on a Tuesday to honor her legacy, but also to CASE one of her cards. You should have arrived here from Lovely Lisa's blog. If not, please start back at the beginning on the CDS blog.

Here is Katie's card that I am Copying and Sharing with Everyone. I loved the combining of the two nestie shapes she did on it. I also liked the embossing.

Well here is my card, minus the embossing! I was so focused on the layers of papers and nestie shapes that I forgot to emboss it!! Oh bother! And I know Katie with her quick wit and funny sense of humor is up in heaven snickering!! Anyway, the image is from the Snow Friends stamp set.

Continue on your way by hopping next to Terrific Trudy's blog. Thank you for joining us today.