Friday, December 24, 2010

Good Friday morning - Happy last day of 2010. What will the new year have in store for us? Do you make resolutions - I do not make resolutions in my personal life - I do make resolutions (probably there is a better word for what I do) in my crafting.

In 2010 - I decided I wanted to learn how to color better so if you look at my growing number of Copics - maybe I am getting better - or at least I have more colors to choose from - I have even used up certain color of Copics - I have not learned how to refill. Maybe I should learn how - it must be more economical.

So for 2011 - I don't want to make it too hard on myself -
* continue to learn how to color
* when I make a card for my personal use, to finish the inside at that time
* to continue to make cards for Operation Write Home

Do you have any crafting resolutions? Oh I forgot, I don't want to buy anything that is not an essential in the month of January - I can only buy adhesive or cardstock. I may have to go shopping today - I do have a gift certificate.

Oh I forgot to talk about the card I posted today - it is a card for Operation Write Home - the midweek challenge on their cardmaking blog Stars and Stamps is to make a "miss you card that is children oriented." My little animals are very child oriented - it was an image I found in my box of stamped images - I don't know who the manufacturer is. All supplies are old.

Happy new year - be safe - see you in 2011 - unless I get a card made today I need to post.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Good Tuesday evening - are you sure it wasn't Monday. We had a furlough day yesterday so it was a Monday on a Tuesday. Very busy day after being out of work for over a week - the next 30 days are a marathon for me at work.

Sunday I had a card making marathon working on a grouping of paper I had received at CHA several years ago. Tonight I am sharing 3 more of the 11 cards I made. I still have one grouping of paper to use. The cards are for Operation Write Home. I really should send out one more box to end the year and start at 0 for 2011. If you want to make cards for a worthwhile cause, OWH is such a good one - so many smiles are generated by one card. The card that keeps on giving.

Everyone have a wonderful evening. Big 10 basketball started tonight and the Badgers won - go Bucky - can't wait till the Rose Bowl this Saturday. Wisconsin versus TCU. Go Bucky.

Card details:
4.25 x 5.5
Paper: Piggy Tales
Stickers: SRM Stickers
Flowers: assorted companies - Prima, American Crafts
Scallop Die cut: Papertrey Ink

Monday, December 27, 2010

Good MOnday morning - I am happy to report I survived the holiday season - and once again I can return to card making - I had to clean up my area so we could eat at the tables I pile (excuse me - create on). I think I need a new year's resolution to put things away - that might last a week. Christmas day was a wonderful gathering of family - and granddogs - lots of good food and lots of leftovers. I return to work tomorrow so I think I may need to take some treats. I went no where yesterday -today I will venture out because I have company coming and they want to go shopping. I know we will be stopping at Hobby Lobby and Papa Murphy's for a pizza.

Well - yes today is Monday - so that means it is Oldie Moldie Monday - time to show some love for your old paper. It still makes beautiful cards. I had this grouping of paper from Piggy Tales - 6 x 6 samples of all their new collections one year which I got at CHA. It has been floating around my crafting area for years so I decided to start creating with it. I got 11 cards made yesterday - I have one more set to create with. All the cards are for Operation Write Home.

The first card is based on the weekly sketch at the Operation Write Home card blog - Stars and Stamps. Every Sunday they offer a new sketch to help your creative juices. With the holidays I did not get a chance to play - but yesterday - as you know - the paper came back out.

Well I need to go and get a few things done - the thought of returning to work tomorrow - very sad - now I can relax - the last two mornings I got up at my normal time - but at 7 I took at nap for 2 hours - it was very nice. Maybe over the New Year's week end I can continue this napping.

Everyone enjoy your Monday. Maybe I will buy myself a present today.

Card Details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Paper: Piggy Tales
Stamps - I don't know - they were in my box already stamped and colored and who knows where the stamps are right now
Stickers: SRM Stickers
Sentiment stamp: Hero Arts
May Arts Twine
Spellbinders
Prima Flowers

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Good Thursday evening - I have been frantically working at getting ready for Christmas Day at my house - my family is coming for dinner so I am cooking and cleaning. Today I made my make ahead mashed potatoes and cooked a turkey - I only bought an 11 pound turkey because I was going to have ham also - boy that is not very much turkey - I have another one in the freezer - I wonder if I should cook that also - I guess I will have some leftovers then. I do need to go to the grocery store in the morning for some fresh produce but that is it - I actually have the bones from the turkey simmering on the stop top right now.

I made this card earlier in the week. Isn't he or she the cutest little monster (Go Team digi image at I Brake for Digis). I have an online friend returning to school and I wanted to encourage her - and I thought this guy would make her smile. I very lightly colored him with a grey copic marker but his shoes, pennant and hat are bold colors. I wanted to play off the great colors in the Crate Paper collection I used for the card. I dug through all my ribbon until I found this twill tape and it was the perfect finishing touch for the card. The button is a large button from American Crafts but I punched out a circle of coordinating patterned paper and added it to the center of the button.

Everyone have a wonderful holiday season - I will see you on the other side of Christmas - I can once again dig out my supplies and mess up where we are eating on Christmas day.

Card Details:
Size: 5 x 7
Digi image: I Brake for Digis colored with Copics
SRM Sticker
American Crafts Button
Twill tape: Michael's
Pop Dots

Monday, December 20, 2010

Good evening - did you think I would forget to post some cards for Oldie Moldie Monday - no - I would not - as I was cleaning up I actually found some stamped golf images so I used those on two cards and then dug out my football helmet stamp and made another card with the same paper - I even found this old sticker which was green so it matched perfectly. I have no idea who makes the paper - it was just some scraps I found.

I was having withdrawal from making cards for Operation Write Home - I have put most of my cardmaking supplies away but yesterday I made these cards and another card which I will post later in the week. Would you believe Operation Write Home received 750,000 cards already this year - wow - and the year has not finished yet - I wonder if they will make a million next year - I bet they will - the word is spreading about this great project and the joy it brings to so many people.

I am off work and am busily cleaning and cooking. I did my major grocery shopping today - boy it was busy. I hate to see what the stores will be like in a couple days.

Well it is time to go and do some more cleaning. Everyone have a good evening and stay safe. More snow falling here in Wisconsin. YUCK.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Good Thursday evening - BRRRRRRRRRRR - is it spring yet. Ok enough whining for this evening - come back again another day and I am sure there will be more whining.

Of course, the cold and snow is a good excuse to stay inside and create. Right now I am cleaning and clearing my play area because we have to eat Christmas dinner in my area so I do need to find the tabletops and floor - but when December 26 rolls around - I can bring my stuff out again and play. It will feel so good - and just think I will have all that clear area I can create in and mess up.

My card tonight features a digi image from I Brake for Digis - this image is called Hoot - he or she retails for $3.25. He or she actually has a tree attached to the branch on the image but I just wanted Hoot in my card so I took out my Spellbinders and cut down the tree. You can see just a wee bit of it on the edge of the circle. If you are interested in Hoot or any of the other great digi images at I Brake for Digis, pop over there and use this coupon code SAVE10BARB to receive 10% off your purchase. Digis are already a great value but who doesn't like a discount and just think you didn't have to scratch off anything to find out what your discount was.

Well everyone have a wonderful evening - I am going to go work on clearing out another spot in the dining area aka crafting area.

Card Details:
Size: 5 inch square
Cardbase: recycled cardstock
Digi Image: I Brake for Digis colored with Copics
Paper: Making Memories
Brads: Making Memories
Sticker: SRM Stickers
Lace: from my supplies (what a perfect match)

Tuesday, December 13, 2010

Good Tuesday morning – and may I stillsay BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR – actually I think I need to add some more RRRRR’s to that statement.

Here is the second card I made on Sunday are for my neighbors. If you wish to hear why the Raccoon – check out yesterday’s post.

The card is based on the sketch at Our Creative Corner. A very fun sketch. I could not find the brads I wanted to use – so I just colored some brads with a red copic – they turned out great (well I think they did). It is nice to know you can do things like that to get a perfect match.

Well it is time to get ready for work – potluck for the building today – I am making hot chicken sandwiches. Yum Yum. Everyone have a wonderful Monday and hope it is warm wherever you are located.

Card details:
Size: 4.5 x 6
Paper: Crate Paper
Die Cuts: Crate Paper
Stamp: Stampendous colored with Copics
SRM Stickers
May Arts twine
American Crafts button
Brads: Imginisce colored with Copics
Pop Dots

Monday, December 13, 2010

Good Monday morning – and may I say BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR – the wind chill is 9 below. I do hope my car starts. I ran my errands on Friday night and then I hibernated the remainder of the week end. I did accomplish a few things – I actually made a couple more Christmas cards, some gifts for this week are ready to go. I even made cookies – I did post the recipe yesterday if you are interested – Oatmeal Cranberry White Chocolate – pretty yummy.

The cards I made on Sunday are for my neighbors. I will share one today – come back on Tuesday to see the second one. They take very good care of me. Sunday morning Jeff cleared my sidewalk and driveway – I have more than they do but he very graciously cleans it out for me. I chose to use the raccoon from Stampendous for my cards for their cards. This summer, we discovered, I had a family of raccoons living under my deck. This was discovered while I was on vacation – and they took it upon themselves to try and evict the family from under the deck. I do wish I had been home to see everyone in action. I know the little image will make them all smile and bring back some warm memories from the summer.

Yes it is oldie moldie Monday – this paper isn’t that old – I think it may have been from last year’s Christmas collection from Crate Paper. I may have combined both of their Christmas collections in these two cards. Today’s card is based on the sketch at The Sweet Stop. This card opens from the left side – this card is for my backwards family – all of their cards open on the wrong side – the first card I made for them was done that way on accident – well now it is a tradition – thus they are the backwards family.

Everyone have a wonderful Monday and hope it is warm wherever you are located.

Card details:
Size: 4.5 x t
Paper: Crate Paper
Die Cuts: Crate Paper
Stamp: Stampendous colored with Copics
Sizzix Die Cut
SRM Stickers
May Arts twine

Sunday, December 12, 2010

I did make a couple cards but they are for "oldie moldie Monday" so drop back tomorrow. I did bake cookies though - and I don't often bake cookies anymore - unless I can put them in a pan and bake as pan cookies. Cookies demand TLC. It was a new recipe so I thought I would share it with you. It is from an add for Ocean Spray Craisins.

Oatmeal Cranberry White Chocolate Chunk Cookies

2/3 cup butter
2/3 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 6 ounch package Craisins (dried cranberries)
2/3 cup white chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar together in a medium mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs, mixing well. Combine oats, flour, baking soda and salt in a separate mixing bowl. Add to butter mixture in several additions, mixing well after each addition. Stir in dried cranberries and white chocolate chunks.

Drop by roundedteaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookied sheets. Bake for 10/12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool.

Makes Approximately 2 1/2 dozen cookies.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Inside

There is a song running around in my head as I made this card - I think Elvis may have sung it - "Blue Blue Christmas" - to be kind to all of you - I won't sing. It is not pretty - and something I avoid doing - well ok - I avoid doing around other people - of course - you sing when you are alone.

Hard to believe Christmas is so close - I still have some more holiday cards to make - I have some left in my basket but sometimes - none of them seem appropriate for the person you want to give them to. We will see if it happens - and then I thought it would be nice to give my hair stylist - 4 handmade cards - I probably have some but do I know where the coordinating paper is so I can finish the insides - no - so it is almost easier to make new cards.

I was giong to make a new recipe for dinner - well - it was suppose to go in the crock pot - so I guess tomorrow I will make it. I am sure I can find something to eat. We are in the midst of a storm - so far we have just had rain - but I am sure the snow is coming and then winds and bitter cold. Some parts of the state are under blizzard warnings. YUCK. I wonder what tomorrow will bring.

My card today is for a special young lady in my life. I asked her her favorite color and she said it was blue - so thus the blue card. Caardvarks (their last challenge - thanks for all the inspiration) is to make a monochromatic card. This is pretty monochromatic - or pretty blue. It is also the sketch at Unscripted Sketches. It is a combination of papers. I had bought the blue snowflake stickers at Michael's - they added just the perfect finishing touch to my card and of course, those foam snowflakes I found at Michael's. They just dress up so nicely with the addition of Stickles. I had some already Stickled (is that a word) but the glitter was pinkish so I had to Stickle some new ones with a Stickle that had a blue cast to it. I also paper pieced the cup.

Everyone have a wonderful evening - stay warm.

Card Details:

Size 5 x 7

Paper: Die Cuts With a View and Momenta

Stamp: Whipper Snapper Designs colored with Copics

Foam Snowflakes: Michael's

Snowflake die cut: Sizzix

Sentiment Sticker: SRM Stickers

Snowflake Stickers: Michael's

Ribbon: May Arts

Pop Dots

Inside Verse: Hero Arts

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Good Thursday morning – I have a thank you card to share with you today. JoAnn Fabrics had a contest this last fall called “Craft for a Cause.” Operation Write Home banded together to get the organization into the final three and we did it. It is amazing what you can do as a group. The final three were then voted on by the public - Operation Write Home won second place. For winning second place they received $25,000.

This thank you note is for JoAnn Fabrics. It is made with product from their stores. We have a super store in Madison that is great fun to shop at. In fact, I was there today and bought some holiday gifts.

Moxie Fab has a challenge for Thank You cards in celebration of their new magazine Card Creations so I am going to enter my card in that challenge.

Everyone have a wonderful day.

Card details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Paper: Die Cuts With A View
Crepe Paper flower
Sizzix Die Cut
Stamp: The Paper Company
Ink: Colorbox Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
American Crafts button
May Arts twine

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Good Wednesday morning - I am going to go do my Christmas shopping today - I did not want to do it on the week end and looking ahead to work - this was about the only day I could take off. I only buy for 4 children so hopefully I will find some good stuff - I like to buy some clothing and something fun also. I buy for my Mom also - it is hard for a 92 year old to get out and do much shopping.

Have you noticed my cardmaking is slowing down - it always does over the holidays. Last night I spent the entire evening getting my Christmas cards ready to mail - one done - throw it in the basket - the basket is filling - I just have a few more to get done and that job will be finished. I know the post office hates to see me come in because each card needs to be handled individually. But I do believe I help keep them in business with my oversized, bulky cards.

Good news - Operation Write Home - won second place in the JoAnn Fabrics Craft for a Cause - $25,000 to help them with their worthwhile endeavors. I am very proud to play such a small part in this organization. Thank you JoAnn's - I guess today shopping - I should stop and buy something - I do need to send them a nice thank you card (of course - it should be handmade).

Today's card is for my niece Molly - it is pretty bad - when people put in their request for what they want on their cards - Molly wanted a dog on her card - so I had this wonderful digital image that Sandy Allnock - founder of Operation Write Home, had created. It worked great. Some fun paper and some great stickers and Molly will get her doggy birthday card. I did not put any Stickles on the card - shame on me - all little girls love glitter - there is a little piece of bling on the snowflake.

Moxie Fab is having a celebration for their new magazine Card Creations - and one of the categories is birthday cards - so I guess I will post this card in their challenge - I know it will make someone smile.

Well everyone have a wonderful day - wish me luck shopping.

Card Details:
Size 5 x 7
Image: Sandy Allnock
Paper: My Mind's Eye
Stickers: SRM Stickers
May Arts Ribbon
Bling - Canadian Dollar Store
Snowflake: Michael's

Monday, December 6, 2010

Good Monday morning – yes it is Oldie Moldie Monday. Time to show some love to some paper that has become well aged.

Amongst the holiday preparations – I have birthdays to celebrate also. I have a card to make this week for my niece Molly – I have the image and paper picked out – now color the image and make the card. Both my son in laws have December birthdays – but they usually get their cards late.

This card today is for one of my Ya Ya’s - my special group of friends –after we lost Shari this last year to breast cancer – has made our friendships even more important. Bert is the third Ya Ya to turn 60 – I will turn 60 next – but that is not until May. The other two are younger by several years so we won’t have to celebrate any more 60th birthday for a few years. Moxie Fab World is also celebrating their new magazine - Card Creations - and have a birthday challenge. This card fits perfectly into that challenge.

This image is from I Brake for Digis. I thought the chicken was hilarious wearing her little party hat. Add a touch of bling to her hat tassel and she is ready to party. If you want to purchase this lovely young chick – just pop over to I Brake for Digis. Remember if you decide to shop, you can use this coupon code SAVE10BARB to receive a discount. Everyone loves a savings and digis are so reasonable. $10 might buy one rubber stamp but you could get at least 3 digi stamps for that price and if you figure all the different sizes you can print the images in – you have a wonderful bargain.

I had to have this paper pad – and I think this is only the second card I have made out of it. It has glitter on it so I can’t use it for Operation Write Home cards. I love the colors so I don’t know why I have not created with it. Of course, I have quite the collection of 6 x 6 or 8 x 8 pads, so there is always something new to create with and the old paper gets forgotten.

Well I must go and get ready for work. Everyone enjoy your Monday.

Card Details:
Paper: My Mind's Eye
Stamp: I Brake for Digis colored with Copics
Ribbon: May Arts
Stickers: SRM Stickers
Bling: Canadian Dollar store

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Good Saturday evening. We had our first snow of the season - luckily it was not too heavy. I went to get my snowblower ready to go - filled the gas tank - primed the engine - went in the house - I know I need to prime the engine awhile before it will start. I started smelling gas - all the gas - drained out of the snowblower onto the garage floor. Yuck - it was not on my list of things to scrub the garage floor. My car probably reeks - I will have to move it outdoors tomorrow and open up the windows to air it out. Now I need to get the snowblower repaired. Not something I wanted to do.

I needed a gift card holder - so put together one - it is the challenge at Caardvarks - the challenge ends today. Boy I made it under the wire.

I am not too talky tonight - tired - had to shovel the sidewalk and driveway - but little Mr. Hunter - 9 year old neighbor - came over to help me shovel and then another neighbor showed up and helped and we had it done. It only cost me some hot cocoa.

Hopefully I will be able to find some time to create - I need to get Christmas cards in the mail and I need two birthday cards. Gotta get busy.

Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Patterned Paper: The Paper Loft
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics Paper
Inks: ColorBox® Fluid Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
Stamps: Stampers Anonymous – Teresa Collins
Trim: American Crafts
Treat bags: Target
Distressing Tool: Tonic
Pop Dots by All Night Media®

Tuesday,December 2, 2010

We are on the downward slide to the week end – but we have snow coming – so I guess that means time to get the snowblower gassed up and ready to go and pray it starts. I will get my stuff done on Thursday and Friday nights so I can stay at home and enjoy the snow.

I need to get my Christmas cards finished this week end and out the door. I need to clean up my crafting area. Maybe I will just keep out some paper and a few stamps, etc. to make some cards for Operation Write Home. Try to use up some of my paper. Of course, I will be making my cards using the wonderful images from I Brake for Digis. I already have them in my head – maybe that is why I have not been able to sleep at night.

I got this new stamp last week – sometimes I like to be a lazy stamper – one color stamping – no coloring. That is my definition of being a lazy stamper. I did try to add some red to the cardinal. Creative Corner has a challenge this week to use a tag on your card. I cut my tag using a Sizzix die. I was using paper from the Basic Grey holiday collection from last year but it was not coming together for me – I then went to this year’s collection and found the background paper. Enough color variation to make the background come to life. I believe the pretty brads are from Michael’s or from the dollar store in Canada. My personal shopper in Canada Ivanka finds the best stuff at her dollar stores.

Everyone have a wonderful day. I am heading to Hobby Lobby and the scrapbook store tonight - let me know if you need me to pick up anything for you - maybe I will stop at the liquor store also so I can relax and sip some wine over the week end and watch the snow fall.

Card Details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Patterned Paper: Basic Grey
Stamp: Unity Stamp Color
Ink: Colorbox Chalk Ink by Clearsnap
May Arts Twine
Brads: Michaels

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Yeah it is Wednesday – hump day – I think I can make it to the end of the work week.

I do have some exciting news to share today. I am now part of the I Brake for Digis Design Team and today is my first day. If you check on the sidebar you will see all the members of the very talented design team. Stop by their blogs and see what wonderful creations they have to share with you.

I am fairly new to working with digis – but the versatility of being able to size them to fit the card you are making is a great bonus. How many times have you gone to make a card, and the rubber stamp you have is just too small or too large for what you want to do. With a digi, you can make it the size you need. I have to work on that though – I tend to make them too big and so everyone is getting a big card when I have been using my digi images. You can flip or rotate your images – you sure can not do that with a rubber stamp. I know I have lots to learn – but it will be fun with all the great images you can purchase on the I Brake for Digis site. Just think – no shipping costs. Have you ever ordered something – and the shipping cost was more than the item you ordered – so you had to order more to justify the cost of shopping or buy enough so you got free shipping. I see you all shaking your heads in agreement.

I even have a coupon code for you to use when you go shopping at I Brake for Digis. Use this code SAVE10BARB and you will receive a 10% discount on your order. I know I like to save money. Digis are inexpensive compared to rubber or acrylic stamps. If you have questions on how to use digis – many questions are answered on the Frequently Asked Questions page.

My card today is for a very special young lady for the holidays. Purple is her favorite color. I love being able to make my cards personal – cards that reflect the recipient’s favorite color or animal. The snowman on this card is so cute. I think we would all love to go play in the field with him. I think he would give Frosty a run for his money. He only costs $2.75 and you get an infinite number of sizes. I have him printed out in a smaller size – now to find the paper I want to use and color him to coordinate. You can find him on page 1 of the Holiday Stamps.

My new year resolution for 2010 was to learn how to color better. I have invested in many Copics and I think my coloring has improved. But I will keep coloring to try and make that part of my cardmaking better. I wonder what would be a good cardmaking resolution for this year - I don't make personal ones anymore - but crafting ones I will make - and I usually can accomplish those.

I invite you to visit the other team member’s blogs; check out the selection of digital stamps at I Brake for Digis – use that discount code – and have some fun. If you make a card using one of the digis – stop by and leave me a note so I can check it out. There is even a blog for I Brake for Digis – stop by often and see what the team is up to.

Everyone have a wonderful day. Hope there is some creativity in your day.

Card Details:
Size: 6 inch square
Digi stamp: I Brake for Digis colored with Copics
Paper: Cosmo Cricket
Sticker: SRM Stickers
Ribbon: from my supplies
Bling: from my supplies

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Good Tuesday morning. Wet, foggy and yucky here in the state of Wisconsin – but we have had no snow yet – maybe this week end we will have measurable snow – I must say no snow in my area – northern Wisconsin has had snow. They can keep it. If they could figure out a way to keep it off the roads, my sidewalk and driveway – I would be more appreciative of the snow but until then – be prepared for 6 months of whining and complaining.

Today’s card is based on the sketch at Card Positioning System – it has been awhile since I have been able to do one of their sketches. This was a fun sketch. Ms. Fluffles was already colored so the card came together very well. Once again you can see orange being part of my design pallette. A young woman I have worked with is setting forth on a new employment venture so want to wish her well.

Come back tomorrow I have some fun news to share.

Card details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Paper: SEI
Stamp: Stampendous colored with Copics
Sticker: SRM Stickers
Ribbon: May Arts
Martha Stewart Baker’s Twine
Button from supplies

Monday, November 29, 2010

Good Monday Morning – the start of another work week – yikes – do you know how close Christmas is – I am trying to get my Christmas cards in order. I have been making them – some I make specifically for people – others – I make cards and then decide who gets them. I do need to put the insides in a few of them yet. I really must continue to do that when I make cards – finish the inside – so then you don’t have to worry about finding that paper again.

Sunday I broke out my new table – it is a table that adjusts to counter height – I am a stand up card maker so my back starts bothering me. After just an afternoon of use – I think I really like it. I have my cutter on it and I work there. It is not real wide so you can’t put lots on it but everything can be close at hand. I also sorted my spellbinders – I got out some sandwich bags and sorted each group together. It seems I spent more time digging through the container finding the right one – now at least all my circles are together, etc.

Today is Monday – so it means it is Oldie Moldie Monday – dig out some of that once loved paper and make a beautiful card. The paper today is from a Basic Grey pad I bought at Michael’s – I have never seen the collection in the stores. I also dug out some embossing powder I had never used – but had to have. Zing in a dark brown by American Crafts. I think I like it. The design of the card is based on the sketch at Clean and Simple Stamping.
Oh who – oh who shall get this card.

Everyone have a good Monday. Hope you find sometime to be creative.

Card Details:
Size: 5 inch square
Patterned paper: Basic Grey
Sentiment Stamp: Hero Arts
Doily stamp on kraft paper: Studio Calico
Zing Embossing Powder by American Crafts
Ink: Versamark and Colorbox Chalk Ink
May Arts twine
Button from supplies

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Orange - did you know it was the new Christmas color - I never really thought too much about the color orange or used it too much in my cards (except for Halloween) until I got a student worker whose favorite color is orange - so I have been designing cards with orange quite abit lately.

Unfortunately - the long week end is coming to a close and I think I have to work five days this week - oh my - I haven't done that for quite awhile. I hope I can - I hope I can - I hope I can. I did get the broth made for Christmas dinner - my Mom makes noodles from scratch - so you need homemade broth to cook them in. I now have chicken also but I have several potlucks coming up and will use the chicken for hot chicken sandwiches.

Here is my recipe for chicken sandwiches.

Slow Cooked Chicken Sandwiches

6 c. cubed cooked chicken or turkey
2 cups cubed process cheese (Velveeta)
1 can cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 can cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
½ c finely chopped onion
½ c chopped celery

In a 3 qt slow cooker, combine the first six
ingredients. Cover and cook on low for
3-4 hours or until onions and celery are
tender and cheese is melted.

Yield: 22 servings

This card is based on the sketch at The Sweet Stop (a new sketch every Saturday). The Stampendous Blog is also having a challenge for you to use the Changito monkey. I have been seeing some other winter Changito monkeys that I have never seen and I think I might need them - I love the ice skater. Very cute.

Everyone enjoy the remainder of the day and have a good week. Come back on Wednesday - I have some fun news to share.

Card Details:

Size: 4.5 x 6

Patterned Paper: Crate Paper and My Mind's Eye

Stamp: Stampendous colored with Copics

Sticker: SRM Stickers

Ribbon: American Crafts (I think)

Brad: Dollar Bin from Target

Snowflakes: Michael's

Stickes by Ranger

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Good Saturday afternoon or almost evening - I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving - I had lots of good food and spent some time with my family. My niece Molly got to stay overnight with me and my Mom on Wednesday night. We had fun but at 8:15 she said - can we got to bed - so we went to bed. She was up early so it is a good thing I like to get up early also.

No Black Friday shopping for me. I did not want to battle crowds. There is nothing I need that bad. This morning I went out early to a store but it was not crowded - I bought myself a new 7 quart crock pot - I broke the insert in my other big one so before Christmas Day I needed to replace that crock pot. Got some groceries, and had breakfast at Cracker Barrell. I always love looking at their holiday stuff. I bought a few ornaments that I could use on card fronts.

Today's card is for a challenge on Facebook - Operation Write Home - we want to try to post 45 thinking of you cards in two days to celebrate one of the shipper's birthdays. I got mine done. I had just bought this embossing folder and wanted to try it out. I like it - it will make some great cards - it will also make some great card for Operation Write Home cards - beautiful but easy to mail. Luckily I had ink that matched plus this card base was laying on the table yet from a card I finished yesterday. I embossed some of the Coordinations - Whitewash paper.

Well I must go - I am making my chicken broth for Christmas dinner - but this way I will have the chicken meat to use for some potlucks coming up. I have a great hot chicken sandwich recipe I can make for the potlucks.

Everyone enjoy your evening. Uw Whitewater won their football game - making their way toward playing for the Division 3 football championship. The UW Madison Badgers are winning presently - will have a 3 way tie for the Big 10 title - but also may be rose bowl bound. Go Wisconsin - the Packers just need to bring a home tomorrow.

Card Details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Stamp: TPC Studio
QuicKutz Embossing Folder
Coordinations Whitewash paper
Patterned Paper: Cosmo Cricket

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Good morning - winter is coming - rain and sleet and ice - that is worse than snow. I do not like to ice skate in my car. Unfortunately you will now hear me complain about the weather until spring comes - and spring can't come soon enough.

I have a quick post today - trying to get some things done around the house - never seems to be enough time to get things done.

I made this card for my office to send to a gentleman who is battling cancer - I work with his wife during my very busy times of the year and so appreciate all her help. This card is to cheer them and let them know they are in our thoughts.

The card is based on the sketch from The Sweet Sunday Sketch challenge - of course - I took a little license with the sketch - I had to made the strip longer to accommondate my sentiment. I had just gotten that paper in a 6 x 6 pad - if you haven't heard - I have a soft spot for 6 x 6 pads - or maybe you could say obsession.

Well I must go - I am doing dishes and I have an appointment to have something done on my car also. I imagine they would like me to come in something other than my PJ's.

Have a very happy Thanksgiving.

Card Details:

Size: 4.5 x 6

Patterned paper: Basic Grey

Stamp: Penny Black

Ink: Colorbox Chalk Ink

Buttons: American Crafts

Sentiment: SRM Stickers

Pop Dots

Tuesday, November23, 2010

Close up of image colored with Prismacolor pencils and Gamsol

Close up of sticker sentiment

Good Tuesday evening - my work week is done - yeah - of course - I will probably pay for it on Monday when I return to work. I need to go make my dressing for the fruit salad I am taking for Thanksgiving dinner. Will watch the end of Dancing with the Stars tonight - it has been an interesting season - sad Brandy was voted off - I would have loved to seen their freestyle - I know it would have been very interesting.

My card tonight is based on the weekly sketch at Card Pattern. A very simple sketch but with so many possibilities. The image was stamped on the patterned paper and colored. Love the looks of stamping on patterned paper rather than a plain color. Gives it so much more depth. I have problems coloring "red" with copics - I don't get results that I like so I dug out the colored pencils and gamsol. This is going to a very special lady (mother of my friend who we lost to cancer this last year) - I know Mae loves cardinals. I can remember Shari buying her cardinal things and doing a cross stitch for her.

Everyone have an enjoyable evening - I must get some things done around the house.

Card Details:

Size: 4.25 x 5.5

Patterned Paper: Basic Grey pad bought at Michael's

Stamp: another stamp that is hiding

Stickers: Little Yellow Bicycle

Ribbon: clearance from Michael's

Spellbinders

Monday, November 22, 2010

Good Monday morning – a short work week – yeah – everyone loves those. Lots of time to eat and be merry and visit with family.

But back to Monday business – it is Oldie Moldie Monday – time to dig into your supplies and find some paper that you once loved but it has gotten buried with new loves. It is time to show it some affection. I still like this particular grouping of paper – I have made numerous cards out of it and there will be more to come. It is a card for Operation Write Home using their sketch on their card blog, Stars and Stamps. Every Sunday they have a new sketch to help your creativity.

The stamps are from a local stamp company – Crackerbox Palace. I think the kitty is so cute and you know it will bring a smile to many people’s faces.

Well – I suppose – I must go and start my short work week. I suppose I should shower and get dressed though before I go. Everyone enjoy your Monday and please dig out some old paper and show it some love today.

Card Details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Patterned paper: Making Memories
Stamps: Crackerbox Palace
Ink: Colorbox Chalk Ink – Chestnut Roan

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Good Sunday morning - dreary wet morning in Wisconsin. The days of taking pictures of your cards outside or in sunshine - I think will not return until May 2011 so I apologize for my even worse photography.

I went to a stamp show in Madison yesterday. I bought one set of stamps and some 6 x 6 pads of paper. I also picked up a couple new Sizzix embossing folders - I had wanted the Basic Grey one that says Merry Christmas on it and I got it. Yeah. I actually used one of the new ones on my card. I have several snowflake embossing folders.

My card today is based on the sketch at "The Sweet Shop" - a new sketch each Saturday. This challenge has the twist of finishing the inside of your card. The sketch called to me - all those layers - love layers. I also had this image colored so I wanted to use it. I love those little snowmen. I hope I can find the stamp to tell you who makes it - it is an older stamp. I used my new snowflake embossing folder on this card. I tried something new on the inside that I had seen before on Operation Write Home. Embossing your image - well I just embossed my sentiment and even my signature - I added the signature before I embossed because I thought it may be a little difficult to write on the embossed inside.

Well - one more Holiday card made - everyone enjoy the remainder of today.

Card Details:

Size: 5 x 7

Patterned Paper: Bo Bunny

Stamp: colored with Copics (sorry can't find it - I stamped this awhile ago)

Sentiment stamp: Penny Black

Bazill cardstock

Sizzix embossing folder

Spellbinders snowflake

Ribbon: May Arts

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Good Tuesday evening. Brrrrr - winter is coming - that does not make me a happy person - and pretty soon - that four letter word - snow. YUCK.

I have been playing with digital stamps. I found this free one at I Brake for Digis. What a great image for a birthday card. The fun of digital stamps is that you can size them for the size card you want to make - if you don't like to color small detailed images - with a digital you can make it larger and easier to color. It seems so many of my friends are reaching the wonderful age of 60 - so I need some very special birthday cards.

I hope you enjoy my card. Maybe I will be back later with another post if I get this challenge card made and I think the challenge ends today. Enjoy your evening.

Card details:

Size: 5.5 x 5.5

Paper: Basic Grey

Digital Image: I Brake for Digis colored with Copics

Sticker: SRM Sticker

Ribbon: Michael's

Spellbinders

Monday, November 15, 2010

Good Monday morning – I had a good week end but I did not get much creating done – oh well – when I got home yesterday – I did manage to put together my “Oldie Moldie Monday” cards. They are more cards for Operation Write Home – it is time to make valentine cards. Archway Cookies has offered to donate up to 4000 cookies (hopefully that is boxes) for 4000 cards sent to Operation Write Home – valentine cards – my personal goal is 50. I think I will make it – I want to get them sent out Thanksgiving week.

Did you get a chance to do the blog hop with Operation Write Home on Saturday – wow lots of great creations. If you get a chance – try to go take a look at all the wonderful creativity. Sandy has a thumbnail of each card from the blog hop at this link - to make it easy for you to hop.

My first card is based on the sketch at OWH’s card blog – Stars and Stamps – every Sunday a new sketch – of course I needed to make my oldie moldie cards – so dug out this pad of paper from K&Co – I have embellishments also that match – but some of them have glitter – and glitter is a no no for OWH cards. Isn’t Mr. Iguana very cute? He will bring someone a smile – actually he will make many people smile.

Everyone have a great day. I have a fellow cardmaker coming this upcoming week end so getting the house in order and need to get the crafting area picked up so we can make some cards if we wish. I have some cooking done.

Card Details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Patterned Paper: K&Company
Stamp: Stampendous colored with Copics

Saturday, November 13, 2010 Time to Hop

Good Saturday morning – yes it is the day we have been waiting for – the blog hop for Operation Write Home in honor of Veteran’s Day – for Valentine’s Day. Gee – yes – yupers – you got it – it is time to think Valentine’s Day for the troops – even though you know we are still struggling to get our own holiday cards made. That is OK. The deadline for valentine cards for OWH is to have your cards to the shippers by January 7 …..but if you can get your valentine cards to OWH before December 1 – Archway will donate cookies to the troops – the goal is 4000 cards/4000 cookies – I do hope that is boxes of cookies. So get your craft on and make those Valentine Cards – we want the troops to get lots of good cookies and lots of valentines – my personal goal is 50 – I hope I make it – I think I have 10 to 20 made or ready to be assembled. I am not a mass production cardmaker – but have found for OWH I need to do it a little more.

Have you voted today at Craft for a Cause at JoAnn Fabrics for OWH – every 24 hours you can vote – just think if OWH could win – how many boxes of cards could be mailed with the prize winnings – you can vote through December 4.

Now onto my cards – I have a large collection of monkey stamps so I thought they would be fun for valentine cards. As you can see I had a problem – I could not decide which way I should place the image. Which way do you think the image should be placed -- Monkey upside down or monkey right side up. Leave a comment and you will be entered into a drawing for some blog candy – the big prize is the new soldier stamp from Whipper Snapper Designs and then I will also mail out 3 sets of monkey love images for you to make cards out of. Sorry – you will need to color them yourself.

I also had this other monkey valentine stamp so I had to make a card out of him also. I had just bought this pad of Cosmo Cricket paper so I used up entirely 3 sheets of 6 x 6 patterned paper for the 3 cards. I know it is a little untraditional in the colors but I like to be a rebel in my color choices. Who said you couldn’t use orange for Christmas. I can – can you? Gee that could be another challenge.

Now to continue your fun – you must hop onto to Joy's blog - Dustypenny Designs - to see what fun things are to be shared there. Enjoy your hopping.

After all this hopping – we are going to be very tired cardmakers – we will just have to sit and make more “love” cards.

Card details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Patterned Paper: Cosmo Cricket
Stamps: Stampendous colored with Copics
Heart cut with Spellbinders diecut
Brad: Hobby Lobby
Sticker: SRM Stickers

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Gee where did November and December go - now we are working on Valentine's Day - so we must have missed those two months of the year. No - it is time to work on Valentine cards for Operation Write Home - trying to squeeze a few in here and there. I love this little stamp - that Iguana is so cute. This card design is based on the sketch at Operation Write Home card blog Stars and Stamps - a new sketch every Sunday. I like to do nontraditional colors - there is a touch of red in there.

Lots of exciting things happening right now with Operation Write Home -

1. Craft for a Cause - make sure you pop over to JoAnn Fabrics and vote for Operation Write Home.

2. Blog Hop this Saturday in honor of Veteran's Day

3 - and now I see something new on the site - something with Archway Cookies - I must investigate that. I am sure it will be fun - maybe we will get to eat cookies while we make our cards.

Everyone enjoy the remainder of your evening.

Card Details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Patterned Paper: Cosmo Cricket
Stamp: Stampendous colored with Copics
Brads from the supplies

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Good Tuesday morning – another wonderful day weather wise – we are in the 60’s in Wisconsin – we will take it – any day you don’t have to put on a winter coat is a good day. We know what it is coming and we are not looking forward to it – snow – it is a great theme for a card – but to drive in it – YUCK - shovel it - DOUBLE YUCK.

My card I am sharing today is based on the weekly sketch challenge from Get Sketchy. A fun sketch – I always like putting things off balance like that. Bringing the two pieces to the bottom of the card was something I had not tried before. I keep working on my Thanksgiving cards – I continue to work on this grouping from Little Yellow Bicycle. The brown dot paper is actually a picture from a magazine of a paper grouping. I think it works great with the designer paper.

Once again – please stop by JoAnn Fabric’s Craft for a Cause – and vote for Operation Write Home – you can vote once a day through December 4. Think how many cards can be mailed overseas to bring joy to our Heroes and their loved ones.

This Saturday, Operation Write Home is having a Valentine Blog Hop – there are over 100 blogs participating – how fun will that be – I am sure there will be some blog candy along the way. I know I have some great blog candy.

Everyone have a great Tuesday. I must work so I can buy some new paper or a new piece of rubber.

Card Details:

Size: 4.25 x 5.5

Patterned Paper: Little Yellow Bicycle

Stamp: Inkadinkado

Ink: Colorbox Chalk Ink - Chestnut Roan

Ribbon: May Arts

Lace: Wyla

Brads: Karen Foster

Button from the supplies

Monday, November 8, 2010

Good Monday Morning – it is oldie moldie Monday – time to dig into your supplies and dig out some old – once loved paper – and make a card. The oldie moldie paper still makes great cards. I am pretty sure this is old paper – maybe just a year of mold on this paper. Slowly working on my holiday cards – trying to complete the inside also. I found a great stamp from Hero Arts in my collection that is the sentiment I am stamping on the inside.

This card is based on the sketch 80 at Unscripted Sketches. A great sketch – had to add a bow and ribbon strip on one of the blocks of patterned paper. The Mid Week throw down on the Operation Write Home card blog is to do paper piecing. The scarf is paper pieced. I love the look of paper piecing as long as the piece is big enough to cut out. Had to cut the piece out twice before I got it write. I just used some Tacky Glue to adhere it to the stamped image. Isn’t that penguin a cutie. Whipper Snapper stamps are so cute.

Operation Write Home has made it into the finals for the Craft for a Cause – please take a moment and go to this link and cast your vote for Operation Write Home. Just think how much postage the prize winnings could cover to get the boxes of cards to our Heroes stationed overseas. You could also join us by starting to make cards – every card brings smiles to many people. Next Saturday in honor of Veteran’s Day – OWH is having a blog hop – so far there are 100 blogs participating and I am sure the number will continue to grow. I still have to figure out what I am going to blog about – I have an idea in my head – I just need to get started on it.

Well I must get ready for work – everyone have a wonderful day.

Card Details:
Size: 4.25 x 5.5
Patterned paper: Kaiser Scrapbook
Stamp: Whipper Snapper Designs colored with Copics
Sticker: SRM Stickers
Brad: Karen Foster
Ribbon: May Arts
Stickles
Image pop dotted
Bling: Hobby Lobby

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Good Saturday - of course it is good - it is Saturday. I was at a conference for three days so it felt good to get back and play with some paper. Maybe the break was good. But so far today, I have gotten two more Holiday cards made and one Thanksgiving card. Yeah. I still have to go over and finish the inside but will do that and slide them into an envelope - I don't know yet who will get this card. Have to ponder that.

The Penny Black Blog is having a sketch challenge. Since I like sketches and also love Penny Black stamps and stickers, I thought I should participate. I saw this penguin stamp (I have a thing for penguins this year) on the SRM Sticker Blog and looked near and far and finally found it. I am having problems finding an ink that does not bubble on the acrylic but I can also color with Copics. I used Momento on this one - was at the scrapbook store and they suggested TPC Studio ink - have to try that - you do have to heat set it - but I do like to use the acrylic stamps.

I broke into some new Christmas paper. Love the somewhat nontraditional colors of the paper. The snowflakes are foam - bought in a package at Michael's - super inexpensive - I just added some Stickles to dress them up. Do you think I need some bling in the middle of each snowflake. I can't decide. I love the ease of adding an SRM sticker to the bottom of the card for my sentiment.

I am stewing chicken so we have homemade broth for Thanksgiving dinner. My mother makes homemade noodles - and of course - you need homemade broth for this. It amounts to a two day process by the time you stew the chicken and then let it sit overnight so you can remove the fat. It will be good to have it out of the way. My mom is 92 years old and can also make a wonderful apple pie. She said she can only make two in one day - she used to be able to make four in one day. She is amazing.

Everyone enjoy your day - I suppose I should try to accomplish something other than cardmaking but this is so much fun. Everyone enjoy your evening.

Card Details:
Size: 5 x 7
Patterned Paper: Echo Park Paper Company
Stamp: Penny Black colored with Copics
Sticker: SRM Stickers
Ribbon: Offray
Snowflakes: Michael’s
Stickles

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Good Wednesday morning. Yeah the elections are over - no more phone calls - TV ads return to normal - the news is not about the election - yeah - I can wash the mud off my house from all the mud slinging.

Now onto more fun things - card making. This card is based on the sketch at Operation Write Home card blog Stars and Stamps. Last week Hobby Lobby had all stamps on sale (wood based) so I had to buy Fluffles - I love this stamp - I got it in an image swap a few years ago and had fun with it. I thought it would also be a great image on cards for Operation Write Home.

Operation has some great events coming up. First they are in the running for the grand prize of money at the JoAnn's Craft for a Cause - come November 7 please stop by and vote for them - I will share the link as we get closer. A chance for OWH to win money they can use for postage. They are also having a blog hop week end after next. I will be having some candy - last count 75 people were participating but I imagine there will be many more once the day arrives - still contemplating what I should post about - do you have any suggestions.

Well it is time to go get ready for work. But it is hump day - yeah!!!! Everyone have a wonderful day.

Card Details:

Size: 4.25 x 5.5

Patterned Paper: Basic Grey

Stamp: Stampendous colored with Copics

Sentiment Stamp: Hero Arts

Lace from the scrap bin

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Good Tuesday morning – thought I would share a couple of cards I made based on the sketch at Get Sketchy. I wanted to make some Thankgiving cards. After I had cut the triangle of the argyle paper – I needed to use the other triangle. The cards just vary slightly in the placement of the circle. The bow on the cards is made from fabric – this was leftover fabric from a blouse my daughter made in college. I have gotten quite a few miles out of it for bows on cards. Love the color. A perfect fall accent.

Good News – Operation Write Home has made it into the finals for JoAnn’s Craft for a Cause – yeah – now we need everyone’s support. Please go and vote for Operation Write Home – vote as often as you can – if they win – the money will be used for postage for mailing cards overseas – the number of card they ship each month is amazing. Here is the link - http://www.joann.com/joann/common/content_noleftnav.jsp?catName=craftForaCause

Everyone have a wonderful day.

Card Details

Patterned paper: Little Yellow Bicycle

Stamp: Inkadinkado

Ink: Colorbox Chalk Ink - Chestnut Roan

Ribbon: Offray

Lace: Wyla (either tea dyed or coffee stained)

Button from my supplies

Monday, November 1, 2010

Good Monday Morning – yes it is Oldie Moldie Monday – I think this is my last post with this particular gouping of oldie moldie paper. I have gotten to the point that when I look at the paper – my stomach rolls – it is beautiful paper and I have made some wonderful cards for Operation Write Home and for myself for the holidays but enough. I have my cards to put the inside in yet and that will use the majority of the remaining paper.

This card is based on the sketch at Unscripted Sketches – I just flipped it the long way. I think this maybe the first time I have done one of their sketches. I also finished the inside of the card which is the current challenge on Caardvarks. As I have said before, as I make my holiday cards – I want to finish the inside and address the envelope so they are almost ready to go – I want to add a personal note right before I send. This card is slid into an envelope with the recipients name on the envelope – no address yet – I have to dig through my e mail for it. I have been away from sketches for awhile – I was trying to get lots of holiday cards made for Operation Write Home – right now I am focusing on my Thanksgiving and Christmas cards. So far today I have done 4 sketch challenges.

Would you believe it is time to make valentine cards for Operation Write Home? I have got some started. OWH will be having a blog hop in honor of Veteran’s Day. I will be offering up some type of blog candy that day. I am still trying to figure out what I will do for my post. Do you have any suggestions?

Well it is time to head off to work – I hope you enjoy the last of my posts with this particular grouping of paper.

Card Details:
Size: 4.5 x 6
Patterned Paper: Bo Bunny
Stamp: Penny Black (penguins); inside sentiment – Penny Black
Sticker: SRM Stickers
Stickles
Snowflake Die Cut: Sizzix

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Ok I have straightened the image on the card. Sorry.

Happy Halloween. Hope all your treats are good today and no overeating all the candy. I do not hand out halloween treats - too many big kids - so for my special children in the neighborhood - I went to Papa Murphys and bought their pumpkin pizza - looks like a jack o lantern. I will have to hide in the basement during trick or treat hours - oh gee - I will have to make cards.

Today I am trying to work on the house and make cards - I do believe I have been making more cards than working on the house - shame on me. I must go finish the bathroom - I wanted to get down on my hand and knees and scrub the tile but I don't think my back will tolerate that - next week end - I will do that first thing.

Today's card is based on the sketch at Taylored Expressions. I haven't been doing too many sketches lately. Been working on my Operation Write Home Cards so tend to mass produce the same simple designs. I bought this beautiful paper last year and luckily I could find it to make my cards. This is a new stamp I bought this week at Hobby Lobby (50% off) - it will be a good stamp for OWH cards next year. One color stamping. On Tuesday I will have a couple more cards using these same papers and stamps. I wonder how many cards I can get out of 4 sheets of double sided patterned paper. Two sheets of paper are identical.

Everyone have a great evening and week. I need to do my laundry yet and all kinds of other things I would rather ignore so I could make cards.

Card Details
Patterned paper: Little Yellow Bicycle
Stamp: Inkadinkado
Ink: Colorbox Chalk Ink - Chestnut Roan
Ribbon: Offray
Lace: Wyla (either tea dyed or coffee stained)
Button from my supplies
Twine: May Arts