Pile It On Challenge #103

Hello my friends!

It's another gorgeous weekend here in East Texas.  I am headed out on an early morning hike with my friends again, before we go to church.  I love being able to get out and do stuff, before the heat sets in this spring and summer.  Fortunately, I got some time to make some stuff during the week, after work.  It was a crazy, busy week for me, so I needed that crafty time to unwind.

There is a new challenge posted over on the Pile It On blog today.  This weeks challenge is to use the color green, with two other colors.  Here is the card I made.

     
I actually watercolored with distress inks for this card.  I wasn't sure if I was going to like the outcome, but in the end, it's really pretty.  I chose to use Squeezed Lemonade, Tumbled Glass and Mowed Lawn.  I blended them onto my panel, and then spritzed with it with lots of water so that the colors would blend more, and pool up a bit.  Once it was dry, I cut it down with the largest Simon Says Stamp stitched rectangles die.  I popped it up with some fun foam, and added some  Tumbled Glass splatters, before adding it to my card base.  This is such a cool card, and it was so easy to put together.  I'm glad I finally dove into trying the watercoloring thing.  Now I'm going to try my other watercolors I have on hand, that have never been used.  Wish me luck! :-)

I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges:
Cardz 4 Guyz #109: Create your own background
Star Stampz Challenge: Embossing
Crafty Creations #310: Sentiment As Focal Point
AAA Cards #59: Embossing
Less Is More: Color Week - Citrus
Hiding In My Craft Room #241: Spring Colors

So that's all for me.  I do hope you'll head over to see what my friends have also created for you today.  They're always so beautiful.  Hopefully, you'll get the chance to join us for this challenge.  You have two weeks to play along.  We enjoy visiting your blogs to see your creations and leave bits of love.  I hope ya'll have a great day, and an even better week!

Hugs!

 

Pile It On Challenge #102

Greetings!

How are y'all doing this weekend?  Have you gotten the chance to get crafty?  I have to admit that I haven't stayed indoors much lately.  The weather in East Texas this week has been absolutely gorgeous!  We've been in the 70's, with lots of sunshine and the perfect amount of breeze. *happy sigh*  I am trying to enjoy every minute of it, as I'm headed back to Michigan on Monday, for more work training.  I see the highs there next week are only going to be in the 30's, with more snow on Thursday and Friday.  Bleh.  I will be happy to return, after my training is done. lol

It's time for another Pile It On challenge.  Our challenge this week is to use paint.  We also have a lovely sponsor, Doodle Pantry.  The winner will get to pick 3 digi's of their choice, from the shop.

 Doodle Pantry is honoured and excited to be sponsoring Pile It On!  We have a nice variety of all styles of digital images at the shop  from the whimsical to realistic. If you've never worked with digital images before we also have a full freebies page! We look forward to seeing what everyone creates this week. We also invite you to join our Challenges.

Here is the card I made.

I needed a masculine birthday card for a friend, so I wanted to challenge myself to create one for this challenge.  And who says you can't send a guy a shaker birthday card? lol  I stenciled the stars onto the base panel, with white paint.  I then created my shaker part, and glued it on.  I finished with a couple of stars and a vellum sentiment.  Easy peasy, and I like how it turned out.  I hope he enjoys it. :-)

I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges:

Seize The Birthday:  Birthday
Stamp, Ink, Paper Challenge# 35:  Sketch
Addicted To Stamps & More Challenge #181:  Anything Goes
Fab & Funky Challenge #292:  Male Birthday
Simon's Wednesday Challenge:  Shake It Up
The Male Room Challenge #29:  Monochromatic
Time Out Challenge #50:  Photo Inspiration (I loved the text and colors in this photo)
Friday Mashup Challenge #243:  Birthday & Use Stencils

So that's all for me!  I'm off to church, then going to this cute little fruit and vegetable market with one of my friends.  I'm excited to get some fresh fruit before I head off on my Michigan adventure.  I hope you'll get the chance to play along with this challenge.  Don't forget, you now have two weeks to join us.  I hope y'all have a great week!

Hugs!

Pile It On Challenge #101

Hello friends!

I hope you've had a great weekend, filled with crafty goodness.  It was another beautiful weekend here in East Texas, so I took full advantage to do as much as I could outdoors.  I went for a walk with a friend, checked out the local farmers market, and spent some time exploring downtown Tyler.  It was a great time, and now I'm ready to watch the Super Bowl this evening.  Go Broncos! :-)

There is a new Pile It On challenge posted for you today.  The new challenge is to create your own, handmade, embellishments.  Here is the card I made.

I'm trying to keep it within the CAS style again.  I like how this turned out, but feel like it's missing something.  I may add to it later, but for now, I'm ok with it.  I made my butterfly for this card.  I started by embossing on some watercolor paper, and then using distress inks to add the colors I wanted.  I cut them out with these beautiful butterfly dies from MFT, and layered them together.  I popped up the wings a bit for more dimension, and added a pearl to finish it off.  I will add this to my stash of Valentine's I'll be sending out this year.  I dig it!  I was excited to combine the following challenges in my card too.

Retro Rubber Challenge #131: Feel The Love (Red, White & Pink)
Try It On Tuesday Challenge:  A Fine Romance
Card Concept Challenge #48:  Sweet Hearts (Photo Inspiration)
Simon's Wednesday Challenge:  Have A Heart
4 Crafty Chicks Challenge #284:  Love
Aud Sentiments Challenge #148:  Use A Love Sentiment
Cute Card Thursday Challenge #411:  In The Pink
Time Out Challenge #49:  Inspired By The Lyrics
Alphabet Challenge:  Y Is For You Choose
Fab Friday Challenge #80:  Real Red, Watermelon Wonder, Blushing Bride (I tried to get as close as I could, with what I have)
Friday Mashup Challenge #242:  Valentine
Just Us Girls Challenge #329:  Valentine

That's all for me today.  I hope you'll head over to the PIO blog to see what the other designers have created for you.  I love everyone's cards.  They're all beautiful!

Have a great week!

Pile It On Challenge #100

Hello!

I apologize for the lack of content today, but I overslept and just realized I had forgotten to create my posting for today's challenge.

There's a new Pile It On challenge posted.  This weeks challenge is black and white with a pop of color.  Here is the card I made.

I stenciled the white pigment ink onto the black cardstock, for the striped layer, and then added the rest of my layers on top.  I heat embossed the sentiment, and popped it up for more dimension.  I have a friend who will enjoy this card.

I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges...

Die Cut Divas:  Something New (the circle dies are new, to me)
Happy Little Stampers Mixed Media Challenge:  Stencil
Aud Sentiments Challenge #147:  Anything Goes
Seize The Birthday:  Birthday
Crazy 4 Challenges #320: Add a "pop" of something to your project.

I hope you'll head over to the PIO blog to see the other fabulous cards that are posted.  As always, they're all pretty amazing!

Have a wonderful day!

Pile It On Challenge #99

Hey ya'll!

It's been a chilly, rainy weekend here in East Texas, which made it perfect for staying indoors.  I had to work for a bit yesterday, but afterwards, I cleaned my place up and then got my craft on.  I have to admit, I did have issues trying to figure out what to make.  I've been on hiatus for long enough that my mojo was missing for a bit.  Since I had been itching to make something, I was disappointed that my card didn't come together that easily.  Hopefully, I'll get to make stuff more often, so that I get back into the swing of things.  I'm sure it's just like riding a bike, right? :-)

Since today is Sunday, there is a new Pile It On challenge posted.  There is a slight change this year, as we will now be posting every two weeks, instead of every week.  We're hoping that gives people more time to join us.  The challenge this week is to use something on your card that begins with the first letter of your first name.  I chose sequins.  Here is my card.

I am trying to tap into more of my CAS side this year.  Lots of white space with small pops of color seem to appeal to me more and more these days.  I'm hoping that with practice, I'll be able to get better at it.  I'm sure the recipient of this card will be thrilled, as one of her favorite colors is red.  I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges...

Inkspirational Challenge #99:  Thank you & Use Something New (the thanks die and hearts die are new)
Simon's Monday Challenge: Something New
The ABC Challenge: Y Is For Your Choice (anything goes) 
The Card Concept #46: Inspiration Photo
Fab & Funky Challenge #286: Something New
Simon's Wednesday Challenge: Something New
Aud Sentiments Challenge #146: Thank You
CAS(E) This Sketch #154: Sketch
Just Us Girls Challenge #325: Metallics (the silver panel and my red hearts are metallic)

I do hope you'll head over to see the other cards that are posted.  They're fantastic!  Since our challenge is now two weeks, I'm also hopeful you'll be able to join us.

That's all for me.  I'm off to church, then lunch with friends, before I come home to make more stuff.  I hope you have a wonderful day!

Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: SU! Whisper White Cardstock, DCWV Red Foil Cardstock, DCWV Silver Shimmer Cardstock, Simple Stories Snap Color Vibe Patterned Paper
Accessories: MFT Blueprints 20 Dies, Memory Box Thanks Word Die, Memory Box Mini Heart Collection Dies, Avery Elle Winter Collection Sequins

Pile It On #96 - Fancy Folds

Hi ya'll!

I hope you're having a great weekend, filled with lots of indoor crafty time.  It snowed here on Friday, and we got about 10 inches.  What a great time to stay indoors! lol  My mom made a huge pot of veggie beef soup, and some homemade apple dumplings, while I put together a couple of crafty projects.  My daughter had to work yesterday, but the snow was already melting, and the roads were pretty clear.  She made it with no issue.  I'm glad to be moving back to Texas, before this stuff becomes more frequent, and permanent.  Whataburger, here I come too! lol

Since it's Sunday, there is a new Pile It On challenge posted.  This challenge is to create a project with fancy folds.  Our sponsor this week is Fresh Brewed Designs, and the winner will receive 3 digi stamps of their choice. 

To be honest, I struggled a lot with this challenge.  None of the previous cards I created turned out well, at all.  After three attempts, here is the most decent of them all. 

And here are a couple more pics, so you can see the folds.

 

I know that the recipient of this card will enjoy it, but I think I need to create more cards with different folds, so that I'm more educated on making them.  I don't think I've ever made a card that wasn't traditional.  The addition of this adorable Fresh Brewed Designs digi, and those gorgeous Pretty Pink Posh gold sequins were perfect.  I also added some clear Wink of Stella to my pumpkin, for some additional sparkle.  In all, I think I did ok.  I'd like to submit my card for the following challenges.

Simon's Monday Challenge:  Thanks/Thanksgiving 

Addicted To Stamps #171:  Anything Goes

Color Throwdown #369:  Rusty Orange, Warm Burgundy & Pear-like Green (I tried to get as close as I could)

Aud Sentiments Challenge #145:  Anything Goes With A Sentiment

CAS-Ual Chic #5:  Precious Metals (I have gold sequins on my card)

The Friday Mashup #235:  Let's Be Thankful & Sketch (my loose interpretation)

I do hope you'll head over to the PIO blog, to see the other beautiful cards that are posted for you.  As always, they're pretty amazing!

Have a wonderful day!

 





What's In It?
Paper:  SU! Whisper White Cardstock, Green, Kraft & Orange Cardstock, Bo Bunny Apple Cider Patterned Paper
Stamps:  Fresh Brewed Designs The Great Pumpkin, Simon Says Stamp Handwritten Greetings
Ink:  Memento Tuxedo Black, Ranger Old Paper Distress Ink, Clear Wink of Stella, Copics: YR12, YR15, G40, G43 & E74
Accessories:  Pretty Pink Posh Gold Sequins, Spellbinders Large Smooth Circles & Large Big Scalloped Circles Dies, MFT Stitched Scalloped Edges Dies

Pile It On #92 - Cute or Spooky

Hello!

It's been a while since I've posted anything crafty, so I'm excited to do so today.  It's been a CRAZY month, to say the least.  We've wrapped up all of our college visits, visited Kansas City to see the Broadway play Wicked, went to the zoo in Omaha, and had senior pictures taken yesterday.  Whew!  I'll be excited to have some down time.  That won't come for another couple weeks, as her birthday is next weekend and then mine is the following, but I'm trying to enjoy every last minute that I can with my girl.  I'm happy, and excited, and sad and much more emotional than I thought I'd be.  How is it that I'm almost an empty nester, when just yesterday I brought her home from the hospital?!  Goodness, how time flies!  *sigh*

With today being Sunday, the new Pile It On challenge has been posted.  This week's challenge is Cute or Spooky.  We're sponsored by Sami Stamps, and the winner will get a digi of their choice.  Here is my card.

I think it's cute and a little spooky.  You can ask anyone who knows me, I dislike spiders, with a passion.  I though this flower image was perfect for the challenge this week.  I colored it with my Copics and SU! Blendabilities, and added some sparkle with my Wink of Stella clear glitter pen.  Here is a close up, so you can kinda see it.

I think it's lovely, in real life.  It's very sparkly, and I didn't have to worry about using glitter, which I also dislike with a passion. lol  Once I was done coloring, I chose some Halloween themed papers and used some of my favorite dies.  This card came together quite quickly, and turned out exactly how I had pictured it in my head.  Love it when that happens! I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges:

Sami Stamps #30: Anything Goes
Mojo Monday #420: Sketch
The Challenge #47: Inspiration Photo
Stamp, Ink, Paper #19: Tic Tac Toe (I chose sequins, Halloween & patterned paper)
Addicted To Stamps #167: Make Your Mark
4 Crafty Chicks #269: Happy Halloween
Cute Card Thursday #369: Anything Goes
Fusion Challenge: All Hallow's Eve
Time Out Challenge #42: Inspiration Photo
Card Mania #73: 1 digi, 2 patterned papers, 3 embellishments

I do hope you'll head over to the PIO blog to see what my friends have put together for you this week.  They're all pretty awesome.  Maybe your schedule will allow you to join us for this weeks challenge too.


Have a wonderful day!

What's In It?
Paper:  MFT Black Licorice Cardstock, Neenah Solar White Cardstock, SU! Pumpkin Pie Cardstock, Pebbles Tricks and Treats Patterned Paper
Stamps: Sami Stamps Spooky Flower 2, Winnie & Walter Moonlight
Ink:  Mister Huey's Tannenbaum, SU! Blendabilities Pumpkin Pie & Old Olive, Wink of Stella Clear Glitter Pen, Copics: YR12, YR15 & G43
Accessories:  Maya Road Natural Twine, Recollections Orange Paper Flowers, Pretty Pink Posh Silver Sequins, MFT Stitched Jumbo Fishtail Banners Dies, MFT Blueprints 20 & Blueprints 21 Dies

Pile It On #88 - Comic Book or Manga Style

Hello everyone!

How are ya'll doing?  I hope you've been well, and have had lots of time to get crafty lately.  Things around here have been fairly busy.  With homecoming week, and working two jobs, I've had a hard time keeping track of whether I'm coming or going. lol  The weather has started to cool off, with temps only in the 70's during the day and dropping into the 40's and 50's at night.  This makes for a very comfortable sleeping environment.  At least I'm well rested. :)

Enough about that though, there's a new Pile It On challenge posted.  This weeks challenge is to create a project with a Comic Book or Manga theme.  Our sponsor this week is the awesome  KennyK, and the winner will receive 3 digis of their choice.

Here is the card I made for this weeks challenge.

I thought the KennyK Fist Hero image would be perfect for this challenge, and I had already decided I wanted to use the Comic Book theme.  I also used the Ka-Pow set from The Alley Way Stamps, which was perfect.  I created the background behind the main image, in hopes it would resemble a comic book strip.  I colored and cut out the super hero, and popped him up on top.  I stamped my sentiment in random places, added the "sunburst" and called it done.  In all, I really dig how well this turned out.  It didn't start off all that great (this is attempt #3). lol

I'm going to submit my card for the following challenges:

Mojo Monday #416:  Sketch
The Unicorn Challenge #1: Mythical & Magical (Superhero's are mythical, right?)
Simon's Wednesday Challenge: No Patterned Paper
Fusion Card Challenge: Sketch and/or Inspiration Photo (I was inspired by the colors in the photo)
4 Crafty Chicks #265: Sparkle & Shine (My teal cardstock is metallic, and sparkles in real life)
Seize The Birthday: Anything Goes

I do hope you'll head over to the Pile It On blog to see what the other designers have created for you today.  They're all pretty fantastic.

I hope to be back soon with another something crafty.  Hopefully, the cooler weather will spark my creative mojo back into action.  I love staying indoors, making stuff, while it's chilly outside.  I wish you a great day!

Stay crafty my friends!

What's In It?
Paper: Bazzill Metallic Teal Cardstock, SU! Whisper White Cardstock, SU! Basic Black Cardstock
Stamps: KennyK Fist Hero Digi Stamp, The Alley Way Stamps Ka-Pow, CAS-ual Fridays Amazeballs
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Blendabilities Coastal Cabana Group, Copics: R14, R17, Y13, Y18
Accessories: Spellbinders Small Smooth Circles

Pile It On #86 - Birthday

Hola amigas!

I hope you've all had a wonderful weekend, filled with crafty goodness.  I have been pretty busy, but I managed to get some time to myself and catch up on a few cards, and bible journaling pages.  My daughter had things to do, and and it was chilly outside, so that made perfect conditions to stay in my craft room.

Since today is Sunday, there is a new Pile It On challenge posted.  This week's theme is Birthday.  We are sponsored by Craftin' Desert Divas this week, and the prize they're offering is 4 bags of CDD sequins.  Who doesn't love sequins?!  Here is the card I made for this weeks challenge.

 
I really dig how this card turned out.  At first I wasn't too sure about the flourish, but as I look at it now, I like it.  I was hoping to create somewhat of a sunset over the beach kind of background, and think it turned out pretty close.  It's almost like looking out of a window, now that I think about it.  Either way, I love it, and will be sending this to a dear friend who lives on the West Coast.  I hope she likes it.

I'm going to enter this for the following challenges.

Virginia's View #18: Geometric Patterns
Happy Little Stampers CAS September Challenge: Colouring (I hope coloring with water colors counts)
Sunday Stamps #109: Inspiration Photo (Teal, Yellows, Orange & White)
Addicted To Stamps #161: Anything Goes
Freshly Made Sketches #203: Sketch (My interpretation)
Card Concept #39: Inspiration Photo (I was inspired by the colors)
Pals Paper Arts #267: Crushed Curry, Pool Party & Tangerine Tango (I tried to get as close as I could, with what I had)
Seize The Birthday: Anything Goes

That's all for me today.  I'm off to spend time in my craft room again, and hopefully get more stuff done.  I hope you'll head over to see what my friends have created for you over at the PIO blog.  As usual, they're all pretty awesome.

Stay crafty my friends!

What's In It?
Paper: SU! Whisper White & Daffodil Delight Cardstock, Neenah Silver Cardstock, Tim Holtz Watercolor Paper, Vellum
Stamps: SSS Happy, MFT Grid Background Stamp
Ink: VersaMark, Staz On Teal Blue & Jet Black, Distress Inks: Scattered Straw, Spiced Marmalade, Peacock Feathers & Mermaid Lagoon
Accessories: Detail White Embossing Powder, Lawn Fawn Large Stitched Rectangles Dies, Pretty Pink Posh Stitched Banner Duo 2 Dies, MFT Stacking Stars & Simple Leaf Flourish Dies

Pile It On Challenge #84 - Friend/Friendly Hello

Hello friends!

Thanks for stopping by!  I hope you've had a great weekend, filled with lots of crafty goodness.  We have been doing nothing, but relaxing.  My daughter just finished the first week of her senior year.  I was slightly emotional on the first day of school, but in all, I'm a very proud mama.  I cannot wait to see all of the things she's going to accomplish.

It's Sunday, which brings us to another Pile It On challenge.  This weeks challenge is Friend/Friendly Hello.  Our sponsor this week is Inky Impressions.  This weeks winner will receive a $10 GC to their online shop.  Awesome, right?!

Here is the card I made for this weeks challenge.

I have a friend who LOVES this color combo.  It's his favorite, and I wanted to try to use it for a masculine card.  I think I'm obsessed with stencils right now.  I want to use them on EVERYTHING. lol  I have to say, I really like how this turned out.  My focal cluster on the left hand side is simple, yet adds just the right bit of "something".  And I love those distress inks.  They're fabulous and blend beautifully.  I do hope the recipient of this card enjoys it as much as I do.  I am going to submit this for the following challenges.

Simon's Wednesday Challenge:  Anything Goes
Aud Sentiments Challenge #139: Fall Fun + Sentiment (my colors are very fall-ish)
CASual Chic #2:  Pretty Patterns
 Bloggers Challenge: Come Fly With Me (I have a wood veneer airplane on my card)
Just Us Girls #308:  Sketch (my interpretation)

That's all for me today.  I hope you'll head over to see what my PIO friends have created for you today.  They're all pretty amazing!

Stay crafty my friends!

What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Solar White Cardstock, Vellum, American Crafts DIY Shop Patterned Paper
Stamps: Reverse Confetti Circle Sentiments
Ink: Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, Iced Spruce & Spiced Marmalade Distress Inks
Accessories: MFT Bold Paisley Stencil, MFT In & Out Diagonal Stitched Rectangles Dies, Spellbinders Small Smooth Circles Dies, Reverse Confetti Triple Chevies Die, Studio Calico Wood Veneer

Congratulations

Hey ya'll!

I hope you've had a wonderful holiday weekend.  It's been nice, sleeping in the last three days, and spending time with family and friends.  The weather has been absolutely amazing here too.  So thankful for everything we got to do, and everyone we got to see this weekend. *happy sigh*

I was fortunate enough to get some time in my craft cave today.  Here is what I put together.

I've been hoarding this Lil Inker Designs ombre patterned paper, and was thrilled that it went with a couple of challenges I wanted to join.  I kept it simple, and love how it turned out, although I'm bummed that I got a small ink smudge in the top left corner somehow.  I was able to get most of it off, but it still looks kinda bad.  I was already done with the card when I noticed it, so I just left it.  Ugh.  What do you do when this happens?  

I'm going to submit this card for the following challenges.

City Crafter Week #268:  Nautical
Crazy 4 Challenges #293:  Monochromatic
Just Us Girls #300:  Congratulations
ShowCASe Your Style #18:  Inspiration Photo (Blues)
The Paper Players #252:  The Great Outdoors (sailing is done outdoors, hope this qualifies)
Pile It On #76:  Hot Fun In The Summertime (who doesn't like to go boating in the summer?)
Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge #276:  Choose A Past Sketch (I chose sketch #274, my loose interpretation)

That's all for me today!  I'm off to grill some ribs, and finish the potato salad for dinner.  I hope everyone has a wonderful evening, and a great work week.

Stay crafty my friends!

What's In It?
Paper:  Neenah Solar White Cardstock, SU! Baja Breeze Cardstock, SSS July Card Kit Patterned Paper, Lil Inker Designs Ombre Stripes Patterned Paper
Stamps:  Simon Says Stamp Sailing, Mama Elephant Hustle, Clearly Besotted My Hero
Ink:  Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, WPlus9 Lake House Dye Ink, VersaMark
Accessories:  Detail White Embossing Powder, Silver Embossing Powder, SSS Sailboat Die

Congratulations

Hello everyone!

I feel like it's been forever, since I made anything, just for fun.  With softball season starting and work being crazy, I haven't had much creative mojo.  Since the weather is gray and overcast, and I'm home alone today, I decided to make some stuff.  I turned off my cell phone (which was more difficult than I expected, and an eye opener), turned up the music, and just created lots of fun things.  Here is the first card I made today.

The colors in my photo are a bit washed out, but this was the best of the bunch.  In real life the colors are much more vibrant.  I clear embossed the flower onto some watercolor paper, and then used my distress inks to watercolor it.  I then used one of my green Copic markers on a piece of vellum, for the leaves.  I love how the leaves have a bit of striation from the marker.  I wish the photo would have been better, so you could see it.  I added my sentiment, not stamped in black for a change, and some sequins to finish it off.  I had to fight the urge to add more stuff, but decided that keeping it CAS would be best.  LOVE how it turned out!  I'm going to submit this for the following challenges.

Color Throwdown #344: Coral Pink, Pale Yellow & Spring Green (I got as close as I could)
Freshly Made Sketches #188: Sketch
Simon's Wednesday Challenge: Anything Goes
The Paper Players #247: Tic Tac Toe (I used sequins, embossing & die cut)
Pile It On #71: Focus on Coloring (I colored with distress inks)

I'll be back soon, hopefully, with another something crafty.  I hope you have a wonderful day!

What's In It?
Paper: SU! Very Vanilla & Watercolor Cardstock
Stamps: Reverse Confetti Fancy Word Coordinates, Stampendous Zinnia
Ink: VersaMark, Tattered Rose, Picked Raspberry & Worn Lipstick Distress Ink, Copic: G43
Accessories: Detail Clear Embossing Powder, Memory Box Lorelai Leaf Outline Die, Pretty Pink Posh Sparkling Clear Sequins

Thanks...You're Amazing

Greetings friends!

I hope you're having a great day.  I am really enjoying the awesome weather we're having, and plan on going for a bike ride with my daughter after work today.  It's so nice to be able to get back outside and "play".  I hope everyone is having nice weather in their area as well.  I hope it lasts for a while. 

Anyway, here is the next card I have to share with you.

I LOVE the bright, cheerful colors here.  The yellow with the polka dots paper from my March SSS Card Kit is fabulous!  I really like the colors this month.  I decided to make this into a shaker card, so I could use some of my new Pretty Pink Posh seed beads.  They are also pretty fabulous.  I know exactly who I will be sending this to, and hope she enjoys it.  I'm going to submit this for the following challenges.

Sparkle & Shine Challenge #1: Photo Inspiration
Retro Sketches #156: Sketch (my loose interpretation)
Pile It On #59: Green

I'm off to work, and am hoping to be done early, so I can leave a bit early.  I'll be back soon with another something crafty.

Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Solar White Cardstock, SU! Wild Wasabi Cardstock, SSS March Card Kit Patterned Paper
Stamps: Simon Says Stamp Talk Bubbles 2
Ink: VersaFine Onyx Black
Accessories: Star Dust Stickles, Simon Says Stamp Stitched Rectangles & Thanks Dies, MFT Stitched Oval Dies, Simon Says Stamp Green Seed Beads, Pretty Pink Posh Clear and Marshmallow Seed Beads, Pretty Pink Posh Mossy Green Sequins

Merry Christmas

Good day to all!

It's Monday, which means it's back to work for me.  I would LOVE to stay home with R and my daughter, but it's too busy at work to take time off at the end of the year.  I'm thankful that they will keep each other company, and truly love spending time together.  That makes it so much easier, for everyone. :-)

Here is the next card I made with the January SSS Card Kit.  This is pretty CAS, for me, which I'm getting more comfortable with.

These colors together are one of my favorite!  The contrast of the dark purple, and light aqua are so appealing, to me.  I have a feeling I'll be using this color combo again.  It's also my first time using Perfect Pearls.  I really love the sparkle they give to the snowflakes.  To tie the flowers into the rest of the card, I added a bit of ink to the petals, which I then used to sandwich some silver and white twine from Pretty Pink Posh.  Simple and beautiful.  I dig!  I'm going to submit this card for the following challenges...

Pile It On Challenge #49: Christmas/Holiday Cards
Friday Bloggers Challenge: Holiday Cards
Christmas Card Challenge #4: Anything Goes

That's all for me today.  I'm hoping to get some more time in my craft room this week, so I have more to share with you.  I am excited about Friday though.  Be sure to stop by, to see why!

Have a wonderful day!

What's In It?
Paper: SU! Whisper White Cardstock, Light Aqua Cardstock, White Grid Journaling Card
Stamps: Simon Says Stamp Holiday Envelope Sentiments, Simon Says Stamp Holiday Hellos, CASual Fridays Snowflake Greetings
Ink: VersaMark, Simon Says Stamp Fog Dye Ink, SU! Coastal Cabana Dye Ink
Accessories: White Paper Flowers, Pretty Pink Posh Silver Twine, Ranger Grape Fizz Perfect Pearls

25

Hello hello!

I hope everyone is doing well, and have been busy making lots of crafty things.  It has been another crazy couple of weeks around here.  My daughter turned 18 on the 1st.  That morning she took her test to get her drivers license, passed, and was surprised with a new vehicle of her own.  To say she was excited is an understatement, but she was only half as excited, as when I gave her tickets to see Maroon 5 (her favorite band) next March.  My babygirl had an awesome birthday, and I feel totally blessed to be able to do that for her.  On Friday I turned 39, and instead of going out, I chose to have a nice dinner at home with my mom and daughter last night.  They made me my favorite dish, and a homemade German chocolate cake.  It was amazing!  I think I'm getting old.  My favorite part of the whole weekend, aside from spending time with them, was getting to sleep in yesterday and today. lol

Seeing as how I was fully rested this morning, I decided to get my craft on.  Here is what I created.

 

I like the simplicity of this card.  It's a traditional Christmas card, but I think traditional is good sometimes.  And as most of you know, I don't like glitter or embossing powder much, but I decided to emboss this tag in gold.  I dig it.  It's not only metallic but also has some sparkle to it.  It took me forever to clean up all of the gold on my desk, but it was worth the effort.  I love how it looks in real life.  It doesn't look like much, but I combined all of the following challenges into my card. 

Christmas Cards All Year Round: No Patterned Paper

Addicted to CAS #51: Tag

Virginia's View Challenge #9: Metallic

52 Christmas Card Throwdown: Red, Green & Gold or Silver Metallic

Crazy 4 Challenges #261: Number It

The Paper Players #221: Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla & Mossy Meadow (i used whisper white)

Pile It On #45: Special Occasion

I think I'm going to make another Christmas card, since I've got that mojo flowing.  I hope to be back soon with another card.  I hope everyone has an awesome Sunday!

Hugs!

What's In It?

Paper: SU! Crumb Cake & Whisper White Cardstock, Bazzill Green Cardstock

Stamps: Verve Glad Tidings

Ink: VersaMark, SU! Cherry Cobbler Assortment Blendabilities

Accessories: Ranger Gold Tinsel Embossing Powder, SU! Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon, Verve Sweet Scallop Tag Die, SU! Petals A Plenty Embossing Folder, Memory Box Classic Numbers Dies

Happy Autumn

Hello friends!

I can't believe it's been almost a month since I last posted anything.  It's been a rough few weeks, and I haven't really been motivated to create anything.  I broke my foot, was sick (which almost never happens to me), then my mother was sick, and then I have been busy and traveling for work.  On top of everything, this last week was supposed to be homecoming week at my daughters school, but two of her friends were killed in a car accident on Monday so everything was postponed.  Sydney and Lexi had been friends since kindergarten.  I feel guilty.  I'm so hearbroken for my daughter, and for Lexi and Caleb's families, but I am so thankful that it wasn't my daughter in that vehicle with them.   It's been hard for my daughter, seeing as how this is the first time she's ever really had to deal with death.  As a parent I feel helpless, not being able to fix this for her. *sigh*  I am so sorry to ramble, I guess I just needed to vent, and I have never had a problem talking about the not so nice things we have to deal with in life. 

Anyway, I was finally able to muster up a bit of creative mojo, and make a card.  I decided to keep it simple.

 

This is about as simple as it gets, for me.  I used distress inks with a stencil for the chevron pattern, added white ink splatter, and then stamped the sentiment before adding a couple of sequins.  It looks how I pictured it in my head, so that's good.  Hopefully, I'll be able to create more cards soon.  I think it may take a while to get back into it though.  I'm going to enter this into the following challenges.

Wanna Sketch #20: Sketch

Addicted to CAS #49: Stencil

Pile It On #40: Autumn

Before I go, I want to share a picture of my daughter (on the left) and Lexi.  I hope she's resting peacefully.

 

Make sure to hug your children a little more each day, if you can.  Life is SO short!

Hugs!

 What's In It?

Paper: Bazzill Dark Brown Textured Cardstock, SU! Whisper White Cardstock, Papertrey Ink Kraft Cardstock

Stamps: Winnie & Walter Moonlight

Ink: Barn Door, Wild Honey & Mustard Seed Distress Inks, Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, Mister Huey's Opaque White

Accessories: Simon Says Stamp Brown Sequins, Studio Calico Chevron Mask

Thanks

Hello everyone!

How are y'all?  Things have been rather crazy around here over the last couple weeks, but I'm glad they're finally slowing down enough to get crafty again.  The weather has been chilly, so it's perfect for staying indoors and making stuff.  I've received several boxes of crafting goodies over the last couple weeks, so I'm excited to finally get to use them.

Chevrons seem to be super popular these days.  Winnie & Walter have this amazing stamp set called V is for Chevron, and I had to ink it up first.  Here is what I created.

I really like the bright colors on this one.  Set against the black, they really seem to pop.  I hadn't really used my Hero Arts Neon inks yet, so this was a great time for that as well.  I loved the Stitched Border die from Pretty Pink Posh too.  It added just the right touch of "something" I was looking for.  In all, I really like how this turned out.  I was excited to combine the following challenges in this card.

Virginia's View #7: Patterned Paper
The Friday Mashup #177: Sketch (my interpretation of it)
Pile It On #37: Flowers and/or Feathers (I used flowers)

Before I go, I will share a couple of photos from R's last visit.  He brought Hulk, and I have to admit, we all fell in love with him.  He's so beautiful, and such a sweet, sweet boy.  He's very smart too.  My daughter taught him how to sit and shake, just in the four days they were here.  He's going to be a very BIG boy though.  He just turned 3 months old on the 11th, and weighs 35 pounds already.  Full grown, we're told he'll be between 150 and 160 pounds. lol  We really miss them, and are happy they'll be returning for another visit soon.

 

 

I'm hoping to be back with something crafty, but different than cards or scrapbooks, in the next day or so.  It's something I've had fun participating in over the last couple weeks, and just realized that I could be posting pictures on my blog of each prompt. lol  I'm just waiting for the lighting outside to be good enough to get a decent photo.  I do hope you have a wonderful Sunday, filled with crafty goodness!

Ciao!

 

What's In It?

Paper: SU Whisper White & Basic Black Cardstock, Amy Tangerine Black & White Chevron Patterned Paper

Stamps: Winnie & Walter V Is For Chevron & You've Got Love Mail

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, Hero Arts Neon Pink, Blue, Yellow, Green & Purple Dye Ink

Accessories: Maya Road Natural Twine, I Am Roses White Paper Flowers, Pretty Pink Posh Stitched Borders 1 & Stitched Film Strip Dies

My Whole Heart

Good Monday to all!

I hope everyone is off to a great start to their work week.  I feel like the weekend flew by, and I didn't really do anything but make cards.  Love that!  I wanted to make a card that was bold, and bright to send to R, but wasn't sure what to do.  Then, I remembered something he wore to the gym not too long ago, and had an "a ha!" moment.  He LOVES the bright neon yellow that is so popular lately, and I just happened to have received all of the Hero Arts Neon inks recently.  This is how things turned out.

This bright neon ink is fabulous!  In my picture it looks a bit more orange, but in real life it's definitely neon.  The contrast of the bright dots with the dark chevron stripes made me super excited, and I love the small pop of color added with the pink heart.  This card is bold, like R's personality, and it's bright and cheerful like his smile.  I wasn't in love with this card at first, but it's growing on me.  It looked like very simple card at first, but the more I look at this picture, there seems to be a bit more going on.  I could totally see a room in our house with these colors. lol  I was excited to combine the following challenges on my card.

Simon's Wednesday Challenge: Emboss It
CAS-ual Fridays Challenge #134 - Tic Tac Toe (Dots, Gray, Twine this time)
The Paper Players Challenge #206: Sketch
Pile It On Challenge #30: Embossing (the background panel with the dots is embossed with the Diamond Plate embossing folder)

Wishing all of you a great week! 

What's In It?
Paper: SU Basic Black cardstock, SU Whisper White cardstock, SU Basic Gray cardstock, Simon Says Stamp Card Kit chevron patterned paper (from last year, I think it may be something from Amy Tangerine)
Stamps: Reverse Confetti Crushin', Papertrey Ink Polka Dot Basics 2, Simon Says Stamp All About Love
Ink: Hero Arts Neon Yellow dye ink, Hero Arts Neon Pink dye ink
Accessories: Diamond Plate embossing folder, Reverse Confetti Tag Me Confetti Cuts, SU Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon, Anabelle Stamps Natural Twine

HOC - Friendship

Howdy!

Wow, can you believe tomorrow is October 1st already?!  I swear time is going so fast, I feel like I'm missing a few days somewhere.  The woman I was hired to replace, announced her retirement a couple weeks ago.  Her last day is tomorrow.  To say that I'm stressed is an understatement, but I've been running the show on my own for a couple months now.  I guess it's just the realization that I'm losing my "safety net", that's causing my stress.  I've interviewed a couple people for the admin assistant position I have available, but so far no one has been a good fit.  I hope someone qualified will apply soon.  Until then, I'll be working from sun up, to sun down, trying to get everything accomplished.  I'm used to that, so no sweat.  I'm thankful that my daughter understands my situation, and is patient, and unaffected by my lack of presence.  I'll make it up to her when things calm down though.  She can count on that.

Anyway, enough of my rambling. lol  I have a new House of Cards project for you.  This week is the 5th week, so it's your choice of style with a photo for inspiration.  For all of the details, click HERE.  Here is the inspiration photo we have to work with.  I love the beautiful fall feel to it.

And here is my card.

I think it turned out nicely.  This card is a bit more special than any other I've ever made.  If you look at the top of the card, I have a strip of multicolor orange tatting, under the bakers twine.  This tatting was from an old pillow case that my great grandmother made for my mother.  When the actual fabric of the pillow case fell apart, my mom carefully removed the tatting.  When we were looking through some old boxes, she came across it and asked if I wanted a piece.  I doubt this card will be donated to anyone, ever, but I am happy with being able to use it creatively. 

I'm happy to be able to combine the following challenges in my card:

Delightful Challenge - Happy Fall Y'all!
2 Sisters Challenge #163 - Anything Goes
Chocolate, Coffee & Cards #49 - Flowers
Come and Get It - Fall Colors
Pile It On #39 - Leaves

I do hope you'll head over to see what the other DT have made for you.  They will be showcased throughout the week, so you'll have plenty of eye candy.  And, they're all pretty fabulous! 

I'm off to start another busy week.  Hope yours is a good one!
Hugs!

Rejoice

Hola!

Happy Humpday!  I hope your week is going as well as mine is.  School started on Monday, and because my daughter is a pretty good teenager, we've already gotten into our daily routine without any trouble at all.  What a year it has been for us, and I'm thankful that things continue to get better. 

So, I created this card, just for fun.  I wanted to try a couple things, and I wanted to use colors that I probably never would have combined, had I not been challenged by them.  This is definitely out of my comfort zone, but it's growing on me.  Here's my card.

This is my very first attempt at a one layer card.  I think the butterflies might disqualify me from being a true one layer, but it needed something.  Everything else is stamped on the main panel of my card.  I used a stencil/mask from one of my Simon Says Stamp card kits, and think the added design works well enough.  I stamped my sentiment in the masked center panel, and then I stamped the flourish on the side.  I liked how it seemed to appear layered with all of the elements, but it was still in need of something.  That's when I added the butterflies.  In all, I like my card, even though I don't know if I'd use these colors together again.  I can't lie though, it is pretty bright and bold, and cheerful. :)

I've combined the following challenge in my card today:

Card Crafters Circle #88 - Winged Things
Stampin for the Weekend - Butterflies
Cupcake Inspiration Challenge #224 - Lime, Berry & Eggplant
The Paper Players #159 - One Layer Card (this was my first attempt, not sure I pulled it off though)
Pile It On #33 - No Designer Paper

I hope you have a great rest of the week.  I hope to be back soon, with another crafty project.  It's going to be a busy weekend though, as we've got our last trip planned for this weekend.  Guess we'll see what happens.

Have a wonderful day!
Hugs!