House of Cards April Challenge

Greetings y'all!

Happy Friday!  How has your week been?  I'm so glad the weekend is here.  I sort of get to sleep in tomorrow, and Sunday, and will try to relax as much as possible.  I'm volunteering at our local food bank tomorrow morning, and doing some house work, but that's pretty much it.  The weather has been a bit rainy this week, but this weekend is supposed to be awesome.  Maybe I'll see if a friend wants to go for a walk at Tyler State Park.  I should try to take advantage of the great weather, before it gets too hot and humid.

I can't believe it's the first of April already.  This year is going by so quickly, youch!  Since it is the first of the month, the next challenge at House of Cards has been posted.  This months challenge is to incorporate script and/or the colors in the inspiration photo below.  It's such a pretty picture, and the colors are so very spring.

Here is the card I created.

I tried everything, but couldn't get a picture where the script stood out any more than it does.  I think the ink I chose was a bit too light, to get a good picture.  There really is script on this card though.  The cover up and the sentiment panel both have script on them.  I love the gradient of colors these two distress inks created when I blended them together.  I can't say it enough, but I think distress inks are my favorite.  They always look amazing!  I added a small bow and popped everything up on foam tape for added dimension, then called it done.  I'm going to send this to my mother.  She's awesome.

That's all for me today.  I'm off to start my chores, and hopefully make it outside for something fun.  I do hope you'll head over to the HOC blog to see the cards that are posted for you.  As always, they're pretty spectacular.  Since this challenge is a month long, hopefully you'll get to play along.  I'd love to see what you create.

Stay crafty my friends!

   

House of Cards March Challenge

Welcome!

How are y'all doing?  It's been a crazy week for me at work, and it's only Tuesday. lol  Since I was in training all last week, this week is catch up and month end.  I'm sure it'll all get taken care of, but until the weekend, it's going to be very busy.  As I'm typing this post, I'm finding it hard to believe we're in March already.  Wasn't it Christmas just yesterday? lol  Time continues to fly by, and all we can do is watch. 

Since it is March 1st, it's time for a new House of Cards challenge.  This month's challenge is Silhouette. 

Here is the card I made.

I was aiming for a CAS look, again, and think it worked out pretty well.  I love how these inks from Avery Elle blended together.  I used Pixie and Mint To Be.  Once I was done blending the inks, I added my silhouette flowers and the sentiment.  I splattered on some white Mister Huey's and a few Pretty Pink Posh sequins, and I was done.   I'm excited to combine the following challenges in my card:

Addicted To Stamps & More #182:  Make Your Mark
Color Throwdown #381:  Pink, Light Green & Kraft (this challenge is now closed, but I still loved the color combo)
Freshly Made Sketches #225:  Sketch (my loose interpretation)
Simon's Wednesday Challenge:  Anything Goes
Cute Card Thursday #414:  Florals
Crazy 4 Challenges #325:  Spring

I hope you'll head over to the HOC blog to see what the other DT members have created for you.  As always, they're pretty fantastic.  And don't forget, you have a whole month to join us!

Stay crafty my friends!

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!

CASE-ing Christmas September Challenge

Greetings!

I am SO excited that the weekend is finally here, AND, it's a three day weekend at that!  I got to sleep in this morning, and I get to sleep in again tomorrow and Monday too.  Woot!  We have no real plans of doing much, except maybe BBQing some ribs, and catching that movie I promised my daughter.  Aside from that, it's going to be a relaxing weekend, I hope. 

Anyway, onto why you're here today.  This month we are CASEing Mynn, at CASEing Christmas.  Here is her adorable card.

And here is my card.

I kept the layout the same, but went for a different color combo and theme.  I do have a few people on my Christmas card list, who don't speak English, so this will go to one of them.  You can't really tell from the photo, but there is a small line of Stickles along each of the snow drifts, for some added sparkle.  I was excited to finally put my new Bossy Joscie flair to good use too.  I love this peppermint looking piece.  It was perfect for this card.  This will add to my stash of Christmas cards nicely.  I'm going to enter this for the following challenges.

House of Cards September Challenge: Stitch It Up
Simon's Monday Challenge: Trio of Colors (light blue, white and red)
Papertake Weekly: Anything Goes
Try It On Tuesday: Try Something New (I've never used flair, or the snow drift dies before)
Jingle Belles: Tree Skirt Tic-Tac-Toe (I chose stamping, die cuts & glitter)

I hope you head over to the CASEing Christmas blog to see what everyone has created today.  I also hope you get to play along with us this month.  What better time, than right now, to start building your Christmas card stash, right? :-)

Have a safe and happy holiday weekend my friends!

What's In It?
Paper: SU! Whisper White Cardstock, Light Aqua & Red Patterned Paper, Old Bo Bunny Red Patterned Paper, Vellum
Stamps: Verve Glad Tidings
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink
Accessories: Stardust Stickles, MFT: Stitched Rectangle Frames, Let It Snowflake, Tree Lines & Stitched Snow Drifts Dies, Bossy Joscie Peppermint Flair Button

CASE-ing Christmas Challenge #25

Happy Friday!

How is everyone doing today?  Around here, softball season is in full swing, so there has been a lot of work, and hanging out at the ball fields.  I'm not complaining though, my tan is coming along quite nicely. lol  All of the games are packed into the months of June and July, so we have been at two to three games per week, plus Saturday tournaments.  With it being so crazy at work, on top of trying to go to as many games as I can, I have had very little crafting time.  It's all worth it though.  My daughter is going into her senior year of high school, and I don't want to miss a minute of it.  I only have one child, so this is it.  Her last year of school, SAT/ACT's, college visits and applications.  Wow...it has all come much to quickly for this mama.  *sigh*

Anyway, enough rambling.  There is a new CASE-ing Christmas challenge posted.  This week we are CASEing Ellen.  Here is her beautiful card. 

 

And here is my CASE.

I chose the layout and colors this week.  I wanted to try a new (to me) technique of layering patterned papers under the focal point.  In all, I think it turned out ok, but I'm not sure it is exactly how I wanted it.  It'll grow on me though, I'm sure.  Either way, it's another Christmas card for my stash.

I do hope you'll head over to see what the other designers have created for you.  Their interpretations of Ellen's card this week are awesome.  Maybe you'll get the chance to play along, and start building your Christmas card stash. :-)

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Solar White, Silver & Navy Cardstock, Carta Bella Bundled Up Patterned Paper, Echo Park Keepin' Cozy Patterned Paper
Stamps: Verve O Christmas Tree, Simon Says Stamp Holiday Hello's
Ink: Simon Says Stamp White Pigment Ink, Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink, MFT Electric Red Dye Ink, Wink of Stella Clear Brush Pen, Copics: R46, R89, Y35, G46
Accessories: Simon Says Stamp Falling Snow Stencil, MFT Pierced Circles Dies

CASE-ing Christmas Challenge #23

Hiya!

I hope everyone has had a great week, and is going to get some crafty time in, this weekend.  As you read this, I am on vacation in Atlanta, visiting one of my awesome crafty friends.  This is my first time visiting Atlanta, so I'm looking forward to seeing the city, and trying the yummy food they have to offer.

Since today is Friday, I have a new CASE-ing Christmas challenge for you.  This week we are CASEing Judy.  Here is her beautiful card.

And here is my interpretation.

I chose to stick with the layout, and colors this time.  I had been DYING to try THIS idea from Laura Bassen (she's one of my favorite crafty people), and this gave me the opportunity to do so.  I think it turned out ok.  My Copic coloring needs a lot of practice, but I'm happy to have done something outside of my normal box.  It's a very clean Christmas card, and I love that about it. 

The other designers have created some amazing cards to share with you today.  I hope you get the chance to go check them out.  We always enjoy it when you get the chance to join us too!

Have a wonderful weekend!

What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Solar White, Desert Sand & Ivory Shimmer Cardstock, MFT Grape Jelly Cardstock
Stamps: Verve Bright Spirits
Ink: SSS Smoke Dye Ink, Copic Markers: V20, V22, V25
Accessories: SSS Stitched Rectangles, Full Card Hexagons & Kate Snowflake Dies, MME Enamel Dots

Mission EMBOSS-ible, Take 2!

Happy Friday!

I'm excited that today is Friday, and I get to sleep in tomorrow and Sunday, sort of.  This afternoon, my daughter, her BFF and I are headed to Kansas City for the Maroon 5 concert tomorrow.  I cannot wait to see Mr. Adam Levine, up close and personal.  Anyway, onto my card for today.

It's the second week of the embossing challenge over at the jingle belles blog.  Here is what I made.

I wanted to keep this card simple as well, again, focusing on the embossing.  I included both wet and dry for this card too.  The Nativity Border die from Taylored Expressions was perfect for this card, and it really looks lovely set against the dark blue background.  I wanted to add a bit of "something" to my card, but wasn't sure what.  Then I decided to stamp the smallest star from the Verve Star of Wonder set, and then cut it out.  For some added "pop", I added some gold Wink of Stella, and called it done.  Simple and elegant.  I think I will make a few more of these, in different colors, and send them to the people in my bible study group.  I know they'd love them.

Again, Stephanie and Lauren have created two gorgeous cards for this week.  You should head over to the blog to see what them.  They're nothing short of amazing.

Have a wonderful day!

What's In It?
Paper: Neenah Desert Storm & Solar White Cardstock, SU! Night of Navy Cardstock
Stamps: Verve Star Of Wonder
Ink: VersaMark, Gold Wink of Stella
Accessories: Simon Says Stamp Detail White Embossing Powder, Taylored Expressions Nativity Border Die, SU! Cloudy Day Embossing Folder

CASE-ing Christmas Challenge #1

Greetings!

I am so excited you've stopped by!  Today is the first challenge over at the CASE-ing Christmas challenge blog.  The idea behind this new challenge is to CASE the card that is posted on the blog, created by one of our design team members.  I think this is a fantastic idea.  It's another great way to help build up your Christmas card stash, throughout the year, and I love that.  Our challenges will be posted weekly, on Friday's.  There is an odd team, and an even team, so there will be tons of inspiration for you.  I do hope you'll head over to the challenge blog to see what is posted today. 

So, months ago, I had decided that I wasn't going to be on anymore design teams.  With my daughters busy school schedule, planning college visits, and planning a wedding, I didn't think I would have the time to dedicate to it.  Then the holiday got closer, and I was excited to send cards out for the first time in a couple years.  As I made my list of cards to send, I realized that I only had enough cards for the people on my list, which cleaned out the Christmas card stash I had built up over the last two years.  It was at that point that I felt I needed the motivation to help get me back on track, and build up my stash for next year.  Fortunately for me, a couple months prior, I had been invited to be on the team for a new holiday card challenge, and the owner was kind enough to let me think about whether or not I could make it work.  As you can see now, I am going to make it work. :-)

Anyway, I'll stop rambling now, and get to the first card that we were to CASE.  This one was created by Mynn.  I think it's lovely.

And here is my card.

 

I chose to CASE the layout of the card.  The sentiment I wanted to use was a vertical sentiment though, so I flipped it.  I wanted to figure out a way for my background to be simple, and kind of look like there was snow on it.  So I used the Candy Cane Stripe embossing folder on kraft cardstock, then I ran my white pigment ink over the raised parts and embossed them with clear embossing powder.  As you can see, the stripes are not saturated with white ink.  There is just enough to make them noticeable, but you can still see the kraft underneath.  I don't normally use traditional Christmas colors, but for this one, I couldn't help but to pair the candy cane stripes with red and white.  In all I love how this turned out.  It's nice and simple.

I'm hoping you'll join us for this weeks challenge.  I would love to see what you come up with!  I hope to be back soon, with another something crafty.

Have a wonderful weekend!

What's In It?

Paper: Papertrey Ink Kraft Cardstock, SU! Whisper White Cardstock, SU! Real Red Cardstock

Stamps: Verve Peace On Earth

Ink: Avery Elle Pure White Pigment Ink, Memento Tuxedo Black Dye Ink

Accessories: Red Saddle Stitched Ribbon, Candy Cane Stripe Embossing Folder, Detail Clear Embossing Powder, Martha Stewart Double Circle Border Punch

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

Thanks For Being Awesome!

Hi y'all!

It's a gloomy, foggy, rainy Thursday here and I've got one of the worst sinus infections I think I've ever had.  I'm working from home today, but did get time to snap a quick pick of a card I made last night.  Here is what I created.

My friend Rochelle and I had been talking about all of the crafty stuff we own, but weren't using.  So, we decided we were going to challenge ourselves to make something last night, no matter what (operation #getchacrafton).  I have to say that even though this is simple, I love how it turned out.  I can't remember the last time I wet embossed anything, or if I've ever embossed on black cardstock. lol  I really think it looks pretty cool, as the white pops against the black.  I hope to try this again.  I will be entering this into the following challenges.

Cardabilities #109: Sketch (my loose interpretation)
Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge: Burlap Banner
Simon's Wednesday Challenge: Use Kraft

I'm off to do some more work, and hopefully rest a bit.  I hope everyone is having a great week, so far, and will get lots of crafty time to make stuff this weekend.

Hugs!

What's In It?
Paper: Papertrey Inc Kraft Cardstock, SU Basic Black Cardstock, MME Cut & Paste Flair Patterned Paper, MME Lost & Found Heirloom Patterned Paper
Stamps: Verve "Being Awesome"
Ink: Avery Elle Pure White Pigment Ink
Accessories:  SU White Embossing Powder, Simon Says Stamp String of Hearts Die, Freckled Fawn Blue Glitter Enamel Dew Drops

Winter Wishes

Greetings!

It's kind of gray and overcast this morning, so I plan on doing very little today, with the exception of spending time with my daughter.  School starts on Tuesday, so we're trying to get one more day of fun laziness and movies in, before she goes.  I can't believe how rapid this year is going by.  It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the New Year.  Wow...

Anyway, I have another card to share today.

I love these snowflakes!  Even though you can't tell in the picture, the snowflakes are very sparkly.  Thank goodness for glitter glue.  I think I'm the only papercrafter out there who does NOT like glitter.  I don't own any, except for a bottle of Dazzling Details from Stampin Up. lol

I'm excited to combine the following challenges.

Christmas Cards All Year Round August: Sparkle & Shine
Cardabilities #105: Sketch
Jingle Belles: Hanukkah Song (a winter or winter holiday card other than Christmas)
Just Us Girls #254: Blue, Green & Any Neutrals
Christmas Card Challenge #38: Embossing (the polka dots are embossed in clear)

That's all for me.  I'm off to cook a few meals for the week, and wait for her to wake up so we can start our movie marathon.  I hope everyone has a great day!

Hugs!

What's In It:
Paper: Papertrey Ink Kraft cardstock, SU Very Vanilla cardstock, Blue & White Snowflake patterned paper, Green Polka Dota patterned paper
Stamps: Verve Glad Tidings, CASual Fridays Snowflake Greetings & Out Loud, Papertrey Ink Polka Dot Basics 2
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black dye ink, VersaMark, Frayed Burlap distress ink, WPlus9 Ocean Drive dye ink
Accessories: Simon Says Stamp Kate & Eliza Snowflake dies, Studio Calica Green Gems, SU Dazzling Details

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!

Thank You Tombow!

Hey y'all!

How's your holiday weekend going?  I did have to work a bit yesterday morning, but I'm glad that I did.  I will be ahead of the game when I get back to work tomorrow, and things are crazy, which they always are after a holiday.  I did, however, get time to make a card.  Yay!

Recently, the wonderful people at Tombow gifted me some of their awesome goodies, in celebration of their 100th birthday.  I received some lovely bright markers, some really nice colored pencils and some adhesive.  Check it out!



I wanted to use all of these items on the card I was going to make, but wasn't sure what to do.  Then, I saw the CAS-ual Fridays challenge (from two weeks ago...yep, I'm behind lol) and loved the color combo of aqua, green & orange.  So, here's what I made.

I stamped the large butterfly, twice, and colored them with the colored pencils.  I then stamped the small butterfly, and colored it with the markers.  I layered them together and added a pearl.  The dimension on this butterfly is SO awesome!  I love how it turned out.  I was excited that the colored pencils matched the background chevron paper almost perfectly.  I added a pop of yellow, teal and orange, and my card was good to go.  It's simple, and lovely. 

If you get the opportunity, check out the festivities at the Tombow blog.  In celebration, they're donating to the Council for Arts Education.  What a great thing to do!

I'll be back soon, with another something crafty. 

Have a wonderful day!
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!

Happy Birthday!

Good day!

How's it going?  I hope you had a great weekend, hopefully, filled with lots of crafty time.  My house was filled with teenage gossip, laughter, and snacking.  All of my daughters friends who stayed with us over the weekend, call me mom, and I wouldn't have it any other way.  It is a bit like herding cattle though, at times.  They had me running in all different directions on Friday night.  Fortunately, they were at the pool for most of the day on Saturday, and then the mall on Sunday.  Thank goodness for small breaks in the action.  I'm getting old, and my body told me this on several occasions throughout the weekend.  lol  I'm glad everyone had a great time though.  School started today, and my daughter was more than excited to go back.  I'm lucky that my child loves school.  I have a feeling this year is going to be a great one.  Can't believe she's a sophomore already though.  Wow!

Anyway, onto why you're here, right?   I have a new card to share with you for our latest House of Cards challenge.  This month there is a sketch, and this weeks challenge is Classic & Elegant.  For all of the details, click HERE.

I have lots of birthdays coming up this fall, so I wanted to get a head start on the cards for everyone.  I was able to get a few cards made for my stash, but mostly I made birthday cards for specific people in our family.  I really like how this card turned out.  I used a page from an extra bible we had in the house.  I just randomly tore one out.  I stamped the leaves on it in two different colors of green and then double matted it in white and blue, which you can't really see that well in my photo (sorry).  I then used my handy dandy distress inks and Nestabilities, to create the sentiment, then added a bit of twine and was done.  Also, I outlined the inside of the Nestie while the paper was still in the die, for added dimension, but you can't really see that in this photo either.  In real life it's really cool and sparkly.  I hope the recipient of this card enjoys it.  I tried to combine many things I thought they'd enjoy.

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

Sieze the Birthday - Always Anything Goes (Birthday related)
One Crazy Stamper August Challenge - Birthday
Just For Fun Challenge #1 - Anything Goes
Daring Cardmakers - Colors of the Sea

As always, the other cards posted today are stunning!  I do hope you'll head over to see them, and maybe get to play along with us this week.  I'll be back with another something crafty soon.

Enjoy your day!
Hugs!

Two For One

Hello!

How's your day going?  I'm enjoying a bit of a break from the chaos that is 4 teenage girls sleeping over, while they're at the pool.  I can only imagine that they're going to come back sunburned and/or "crispy" from being there most of the afternoon. lol  In the nice, quiet, alone time I have had, I created two cards.  I usually only post one at a time, but I wanted to share both of these right now.  I was a bit impatient in sharing these. :-)

Here is the first.

A few weeks ago I saw a card posted using a crochet mat.  I did some investigating, and found that Jessi Fogan, makes AND sells them.  I was super excited to place my order, and was even more excited when they arrived so quickly at my house the other day (she's awesome!).  I've asked her to try to find some neon thread.  Wouldn't they be awesome?!  It had been a while since I'd created anything but a square card, so I went with round for this one.  My peach/white flourish panel is actually the emboss resist technique, which I really should do more often.  I matted it in a pale yellow, and added it to my sage green crochet mat.  I then added a wood veneer banner that came in one of my Simon Says Stamp card kits, a twine bow, a hand crocheted flower I ordered on Etsy, and a few sequins.  In all, I think this card took me 20 minutes to complete, and I love it!

I've combined the following challenges in this card:

Stampin Royalty #189 - Photo Inspiration (hope I got close enough to the colors)
Drunken Stampers #137 - Twine (Hi Jessi!!)
Totally Gorjuss #197 - Die Cuts/Punches (my shaped card was made with dies)

And, here is the second card. 

If you know me, you know I LOVE blue.  I reminded myself about the need to continue my use of the emboss resist technique, and wound up with this beauty.  I made two identical panels, only one is embossed with snowflakes and has Mr. Huey's mist on it.  For a bit of added interest, I matted them in opposite directions.  The bottom layer starts with the darker colors at the top, and the focal panel starts with the lighter colors at the top.  I have to say, this turned out much better than I expected.  I added an MFT snowflake, a beautiful I Am Roses paper flower, and some cork paper leaves on top of my ribbon and sentiment, and was finished.  I think the emboss resist technique will be used again this afternoon, for some gift tags.  Or maybe a couple of bookmarks.  Ooooh, yeah...that would work!

I've combined the following challenges in this card:

Cards Galore August Challenge - Bingo (embossing/masks, sprays/inks, ribbon)
Cardabilities #81 - Sketch
Jingle Belles - Tic Tac Toe (embossing heat or dry, ribbon, stamping)
Just Add Ink #178 - Just Add Snowflakes
Just Us Girls #202 - Monochromatic Blues

Now that my long post is done, I've got a question to ask you awesome crafty people!  I recently started thinking that I might want to try my hand at getting published.  I've added it to my bucket list, but am in no hurry.  What advice would you give someone who's never tried this?  Any tips or hints at anything to help me out would be greatly appreciated. 

I'm off to try to create something else to share later in the week.  I'll be back on Monday with my next House of Cards project.  Hopefully, you'll get the chance to stop by and check out what I've made for that.  I do hope the rest of your weekend is fantastic!

Stay crafty my friends!

Believe In Miracles

Hi there!

I hope your week has been going pretty well.  It's been nice for me, but I'm sure that won't last long.  Nothing in transportation ever stays the same.  School starts on Monday, and I'm going to have a house full of teenage girls for the weekend, so I'm hoping to be able to hide and get a few cards made to add to my stash.  Guess we'll see how that goes. lol

It's the 15th of August, and I have a new Use Your Words project for you.  Our challenge word is: Believe.  For all of the details, click HERE.

I was really trying to focus on making more layouts for this DT, but I couldn't find any photos or papers that really went together, for me.  It just wasn't clicking.  So, I did what I usually do, and made a card.  I LOVE my new Simon Says Stamp Card Kit papers and couldn't wait to dive into them.  I think they are gorgeous.  I'm very happy to report that I have a friend who sent an email a couple weeks ago, stating that her latest check up shows no sign of cancer, after a year.  She is officially a survivor, according to her.  Amen!  I wanted to send her some happy mail, and let her know that I'm still praying for her.  What amazing news though. *happy sigh*  When we were hanging out in Dallas, I remember going to the fair with her, just about every year.  How perfect that these papers have a carousel on them.  And, the Believe stamp set from Verve was perfect for this card.  I know she'll love it!

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

Card Mania #27 - Your Favorite Embellishment (Love my twine!)
Scrapping Everyday Miracles August Main Challenge #31 - An Accomplishment
Creative Craft Challenges2 #16 - Tic, Tac, Toe (I chose twine, ivory, distress)
Ribbon Carousel Challenge #84 - Summertime Fun (hoping my patterned papers will work)

That's all for me.  I do hope you'll head over to the Use Your Words blog to see the beautiful projects the other designers have posted.  I'm lucky to be on a team with such talented women.

Have a wonderful day!
Hugs!

Blue Skies

Greetings!

I hope everyone is having a good week, so far!  It was a lazy weekend around our house, but I was able to get a couple of crafty things done.  Here is a card I made for a friend in need of encouragement.

I wanted to try a technique that Dawn McVey introduced on a weekly tutorial for PTI, that uses two different background stamps together.  You can barely see the light pink polka dots in my photo, but in real life, they're pretty cool.  I have a feeling I'll be trying this technique again.  It's easy.  I've had this stamp in my stash forever, and decided it was time to ink her up after neglecting her for about a year.  I paper pieced the umbrella, and cut her out so I could pop her up.  I think this card is bright, and cheerful, and I'm hoping it will bring a smile to my friend.

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

Crazy 4 Challenges #197 - Paper Piecing
Sketchbook Saturday #102 - Sketch
Dynamic Duos #64 - Strawberry Slush & Daffodil Delight (I tried to get as close as I could)
Our Creative Corner - Words, Words, Words
Kaboodle Doodles #183 - Anything With Scallops (my lace has scallops)
The Pink Elephant #211 - Texture
Flourishes Timeless Tuesday #232 - Backgrounds (using your stamps)

I am hoping to get more crafting done this week, as we're expecting rain over the next few days.  Great time to make a bit pot of homemade veggie beef soup too, I think.

Have a great day!
Hugs!

A Man's Heart

Good day!

How's it going?  I hope you had a good weekend, and are starting your week off well also.  It was a nice, relaxing weekend in the Castro house.  We didn't do anything but go see the movie The Conjuring on Friday.  My daughter and I are huge scary movie fans, so this was a must see for us.  I wasn't sure if it was going to be that scary, but there were some great moments.  I think we'll see it again, once it's on DVD.  We've begun our vacation countdown as well.  In 3 days we'll be in my favorite place, Denver!  I am dying to get there already, and am finding it more and more difficult to be patient. lol  If any of my crafty friends are in the Denver area, and want to have lunch or something, let me know!  It would be awesome to meet any of you!

Anyway, I'm back with another House of Cards project for you.  This weeks theme is Shabby & Vintage.  I've gotten better at CAS, which means that Shabby and Vintage are now two styles that I really struggle with.  For this weeks challenge, click HERE.  Below is the card I created.

I really distressed all of my edges, and I tried to make it look "vintage" with my inking.  I do hope it's close to being considered shabby and vintage.  I really wanted to support this weeks group, so I am just going to go with it.  I've got another card for my stash now too.

I've also combined the following challenges in my card:

WordArt Wednesday #89 - Anything Goes
The Paper Players #155 - Sketch (I flipped it)
Addicted to Stamps #60 - Lots of Layers (I've got 8)
The Hybrid Chick Card Caravan #46 - Red, White & Blue

I do hope you'll head over to see what the HOC Shabby & Vintage DT have created for you this week.  They're beautiful! 

Have a good day!
Hugs!

HOC Month One - Classic & Elegant

Hiya!

This is my second post for the day.  To see what else I've been up to, please scroll down.

It's Monday, which brings us to the next challenge at House of Cards.  I've been participating with them since the first post went live, at the beginning of the month, but this week is focused on my group - Classic and Elegant.  Below is the theme for this month.  For this weeks challenge, click HERE. 

And here is what I created:

I LOVE butterflies!  These Verve butterflies are among my favorite, and when I saw the theme for this months color challenge, I knew exactly what I wanted to do with them.  I colored them with my Copics, in the colors matching the theme, and then cut them out.  I don't like to fussy cut, much, but they're exactly what I hoped they'd be, once I put them on my card.  I used THIS sketch, even though the challenge is now closed, because it was perfect for what I wanted to do.  And, I'm happy to have another card to add to my stash, yay! 

I have also combined the following challenges in my card today:

Totally Papercrafts #175 - All of a Flutter
Speedy Fox & Friends #168 - Favorite Technique (dry embossing)
Robyn's Fetish #168 - Things With Wings
Hybrid Chick Card Caravan #46 - Red, White & Blue

I do hope you'll head over to the House of Cards challenge blog to see what my friends have created for you today as well.  They're pretty fantastic!

I'll be back with more crafty goodness soon...
Hugs!