The Power of 3

Today is our SCS Crafty Gals Blog Hop!  I've been looking forward to this since Melina mentioned having one during December!   What better time to get Christmas Cards done than for a blog hop.  I hope you'll check out all of the CRAFTY GALS listed on the right side of my blog as they all have inspiring cards and altered items for you to see!   Since our challenge was "The Power of Three",  everything on the card had to be in 3's -- paper and embellishments.   I cased this card from the SCS Gallery.   It was just TOO perfect for our challenge not to and as soon as I saw it,  I knew this would be a good one to include.   I used SU! Delightful Decorations Stamps,  3 Gold Star Eyelets,  Gold Cord and SU! Cardstock Ruby Red, Marigold Morning and Wild Wasabi.   I embossed the red with SU! Dots Emboss folder.  While I was at it,  I used my SU Scallop Edge Punch, SU! Ornament Punch and a corner rounder.   

The next card in my Power of Three line up is using a sketch from this week's MOJO Monday #217.  Fun Sketch to use.   I found these SU! Scraps in my scrap bin and since these are some of my favorite colors,  it was perfect for this card.   I used SU! Old Olive and Real Red.   The stamps are SU! Patterned Pines.  I added 3 brads,  1 red sleigh and 2 green Christmas Trees.  I also added 3 red stars and to bling them up added Christmas Red Stickles.   The ribbon is Ivory Satin miscellaneous I had in my Ribbon Drawer,.   Just to follow the theme,  I made 3 of these cards.   I also was pleased because the sketch was square,  I wanted something "different" for these cards.     



The last card I finished for this evening was from the Freshly Made Sketches #13.   I used A Muse Studio nordic
noel stamps,  Cherry Shimmer, Cherry Damask Shimmer and French Roast Shimmer.  The ink colors are Cherry and Wasabi.   I added Christmas Red Stickles to this card as well.    I had alot of FUN making these 3 cards for our Power of Three Blog Hop! 

I hope you enjoy!   Don't forget to check out the rest of the Crafty Gals Blog Hop.  

Happy HOlidays!

Woohoo,  finally my Christmas card MOJO has kicked in and I'm in the Christmas card making mode, whew!   I was really beginning to get worried that I wouldn't have any to send this year.   Once I got out the stamps and started playing,  ideas started coming together.   This card is another in on the list but probably not my first choice although IRL it did turn out cute if I do say so myself.   The sketch is this week's MOJO Monday #215.   I was especially inspired by Mary Fish at Stampin' Pretty. She gave a great tutorial on using Versamark on your embossing folder for a unique look.  Although it didn't work real well with this folder,  I did try it on another and it turned out great.  You should check out her tutorial if you get a chance!   The Holiday countdown seems to be starting...woohoo!   Enjoy!  

Supplies:  SU! Cardstock Riding Hood Red, Old Olive, Choc Chip,  Ink:  SU! Old Olive, Choc Chip, Riding Hood Red,  Stamps:  SU! Delightful Decorations,  SU! Glad Tidings,  SU! Emboss Folder Elegant Bouquet,  Michaels Holiday Ribbon,

to you from me

Have you ever had one of those days where all the cute cards in your head just didn't come out on paper like you were imagining they looked?  LOL!   Well today is one of those days!   I was actually trying to get my Christmas Cards done and they just weren't looking the way I wanted.  I decided to take a break and play with the Mojo Monday #214 to make sure I had my card done for that this week as it's a contest week.  Wouldn't that be fun to win some Verve stamps to play with :)    I also wanted to get my card done for the Perfect Sentiments #06 challenge by doing an "all occasion" card.   I had been browsing through the SU! Catalog last night and remembered that a sweet friend of mine had PIF'd me some of these cute owls!  I wanted to use them to make a card for her as she's going through a rough life moment and I just want to send her some happy thoughts.   This all came together and I love it!   Now if only my Christmas Cards were coming along this cute ... back at it!   Supplies:  SU! DSP Apple Cider, SU! Stamps Cute Converse,  SU! Ink Wild Wasabi, SU! Owl Punch,  SU! Bird Punch,  SU! Satin Ribbon,  Darice Glitter Sparkles

Friendship

I'm really disappointed as this round of Divine Secret Sisters on SCS is coming to an end and I've had a GREAT Little Sis to send cards to.  She shared with me that Fall or Thanksgiving cards are some of her favorites so I've really enjoyed getting out all the Autumn colored papers and stamps.   This cute sketch came from Monday Lunchtime Sketch Challenge #197.  I even dragged out some old SU! DSP scraps just for this sketch.  It also worked perfectly with the Paper Players #70 Challenge for this week to use Fall Colors.   They had an AMAZING Blog Hop on Saturday for their Fall Challenge.  Every card or item was beautiful!   Supplies:  Paper:  SU! Apple Cider DSP,  Really Rust CS;  Stamps:  SU! Language of Friendship, Trendy Trees;  SU! Ink Wild Wasabi, Choc Chip, Really Rust;  SU! Rhinestone Brads;  SU! Emboss Folder Finial Press,  SU! Slot Punch

J-O-Y!

Do you ever have moments of being overwhelmed with how many blessings we have to enjoy?  I was thinking that especially this weekend,  what a great weekend.   Still enjoyed Fall color even though cooler temps,  shopped, wrapped, crafted and altered a box of goodies for a Santa Secret Sis I signed up for and in-between all my "house stuff" I started an unmounting project for my wood-mounted stamps.  It just feels so blessed to enjoy lots of crafting time.   I'm very confident I'll use my SU! stamps more as I get them unmounted not to mention, I'm thrilled for the extra space I'll have.   This cute card inspiration and sketch came from my friends over at Perfect Sentiments #04.   It also worked for the fun challenge at PALS Paper Arts #117 to use some ribbon.  I got to dust off some pretty SU! Purely Pomegranate which I haven't used in a while.  Enjoy!  Supplies:  SU! Paper DSP, River Rock,  SU! Stamps Perfect Presentation, Snowflakes SU! Ink River Rock, Purely Pomegranate,  SU! Ribbon Purely Pomegranate,  SU! Rhinestones, SU! Emboss Folder Finial Press

Baseball and Apple Pie!

Ok, can you tell I've been watching the World Series, LOL!   I spent lots of time last weekend baking up the apples we picked at the orchard and this weekend was all about watching the Cardinals win the World Series although I was cheering for the Rangers.  It was a GREAT series.   Baseball though makes me think of Spring and it's sure not Spring outside my window!  They even said possible S**W Flurries tomorrow, ugh!  Well, That's what's so awesome about crafting,  it can be any season you choose.  Tonight it was Spring because I wanted to use my SU! Butterfly Diecut on this cute card sketch from Paper Players #69.  Fun, fun!   Looks like I'll be ready with some cute cards for next March and April.   Supplies:  Paper - Bazzill Arizona,  Basic Grey Sweet Threads, SU! Choc Chip, So Saffron;  Stamps:  SU! Whimsical Words;  Ink:  SU! Choc Chip;  Kaiser Rhinestones

World Series ...

of Christmas Cards?  I can't believe how many different Christmas Cards I've done this year already!  Usually I just do 1 or 2 designs, pick one I like and make several to send out.   This year I have been trying different designs and haven't picked just one yet I think is "the" one.   By the time I decide,  I'll have so many variety I won't need more ... I'm probably close, LOL!  This card was inspired from this week's CardPatterns #138.  I think I'm going to try another and emboss the background?   IRL, the rhinestones are just the right sparkle.   Well,  since the Texas Rangers lost tonight and there will be a game #7,  I guess I'll be back tomorrow night with an update...Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Cherry and French Roast Shimmer, Twas the Night Before CS;  Stamps:  cool yule;  Ink:  Cherry, Wasabi;  Wasabi Ribbon, Twinkles;  CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cart

Come Back!

Oh, I'm SO not ready for the beautiful Fall colors to fly away but with colder temps and rain, there are more leaves on the ground and the color is turning rapidly.  I enjoyed getting my favorite leaf stamps out to bring some Autumn color back into my craft space.   I always love to use buttons so this week's MOJO Monday #212 sketch was just perfect for grabbing my French Roast button bag.   Both of these cards are going out in the mail tomorrow to friends.  It's such a good feeling to have a way to wish them well during this Fall Season.   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Latte Woodgrain, Grass Shimmer Damask,  Papaya Shimmer,  Stamps:  fresh foliage,  Bakers Twine Chocolate,  French Roast Buttons, Twinkles

You Make Me Happy

I was thinking something silly when I saw this sentiment - "you make my heart happy".   I was actually thinking how happy my stamping and scrapping goodies make me, LOL!   It's so refreshing for me to work on cards and scrap pages.  I got into this hobby actually with recommendation from a "Career Coach"!  Yup!  I met with her several times expecting this incredible career advice.  After several weeks, she said I was missing balance and needed a hobby.  I tried several different "hobbies" and happened on some friends who scrapbooked.   After a rough start (perfectionist tendicies) I settled in and started getting pages done.  After that I discovered stamping and the first few years I only made Christmas cards.  As you can see I've branched out, haha!  The rest as they say is history...good history!  I really enjoy all the cards I make and send.  Some weeks I'm better at getting them out in the mail than others.   This cute sketch is this week's Sweet Sketch Wednesday 123-57.   Enjoy!   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Orange Gingham, Grass Damask, Grass Shimmer;  Stamps:  beautiful botanicals 2, hand scripted;  Ink:  Papaya, Orange, Grass;  Butterfly Die,  SU! Pumpkin Pie Satin Ribbon, misc charms

Friendship Appreciation

The challenge at Perfect Sentiments #2 this week is to make a card for friend.  They also included a picture for inspiration.   I liked the inspiration they provided because it seemed really peaceful and pretty in biege, browns and blues.   It was a great combination and it really made me start thinking of all of the friends I truly appreciate.   I made 3 of these cards to send to friends.   I hope they enjoy these as much as I enjoyed making it.  I also appreciate the inspiration from Perfect Sentiments!   Supplies:  Paper:  A Muse Studio Kraft,  Stamps:  A Muse on the wing, beautiful botanicals 2;  Ink:  A Muse Studio Bermuda,  Ocean and French Roast;  CTMH Opaque Pearls;  Twine, Misc Charms

Peaceful Moments

As I gazed out my living room window, I saw such a pretty site with a doe and fawn walking carefully along the stream that runs at the edge of my yard.  I wanted to go out and encourage them the other way so they wouldn't go toward the road but knew that would be pointless.  It was so pretty to watch them meander along the waters edge with no real destination it seemed.  

 I wish I would have made this card in a larger size but I wasn't exactly sure what I was going to stamp when I started.  I will definitely use this sketch again as now my mind is whirling with ideas.  I think these will be fun Christmas cards to send and am thrilled with my growing stash of fun cards done.   The sketch is from this week's Freshly Made Sketches #6.   It's also for this week's Red and Green Challenge at The Paper Players.  You know I'm not done making Christmas Cards yet ... more to come.   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Cherry Shimmer, Grass Damask, Grass Shimmer, French Roast Shimmer;  Stamps:  nordic noel;  Ink:  French Roast, Cherry;   Lime Satin Ribbon, Cloud Die, Twinkles

Happy Sweetest Day!

Sweetest Day --- Ever heard of it?

"Sweetest Day is a holiday celebrated primarily in the Great Lakes Region and parts of the Northeast United States, on the third Saturday in October. The first Sweetest Day was pronounced as October 8, 1921 in Cleveland.  The Cleveland Plain Dealer's October 8, 1922 edition, which chronicles the first Sweetest Day in Cleveland, states that the first Sweetest Day was planned by a committee of 12 confectioners chaired by candymaker C. C. Hartzell. The Sweetest Day in the Year Committee distributed over 20,000 boxes of candy to "newsboys, orphans, old folks, and the poor" in Cleveland, Ohio."   (Wikipedia)

I had no idea that "Sweetest Day" was a Midwest Holiday only.  My DH is always a dear and this year was no different as he brought me some beautiful flowers and a card.  I made him a cake (sweets) and made this card for him.  My hubby is a "traditionalist".  I've got flowers for Sweetest Day for the last 23 years.  I still like them and he liked his card.   Of course,  I pulled out red and black as I thought this would be his favorite.   The sketch came from MOJO MONDAY #210.   I also followed the challenge for the A Muse Studio Challenge blog to use stamps for your background.   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio -- Paper:  Sweetheart, Onyx, Cherry;  Stamps:  script background, my aim is true;  Ink:  Cherry,  Momento Black;  Heart Dies,  Cherry Buttons

Boss Day!

Well, I seem to be making cards for the men in my life this week, LOL!  First, a birthday card for hubby and now a Bosses Day card for my boss.   He's only been my boss since June but he's definitely one of the better ones I've had!   I think he deserves a card for putting up with me some days, haha.   I looked at several cards in the store hoping to find one for him but it just seemed that most of them said, "from all of us" and unfortunately my team mates are from different cities so it's not like I can get anyone else to sign.  So I came home and made one.   I've been traveling this week so I just love that it was quick and fun!   This cute sketch came from this week's Paperworks Co #101.   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio.  Paper:  Orange Polka Dot, French Roast Shimmer, Latte;  Stamps:  owls well;  Ink:  Orange, French Roast;  Twine, Buttons

Happy Birthday DH!

"Happy Birthday to you!"  Today is my DH Bday.  I'm traveling for work but I wanted to be sure I had a card for him.  I must confess,  I usually buy him a birthday card.  I make most of the other ones but it's just been a habit for so long to get him a funny one.  I just couldn't come up with "funny" but I decided this year to make him one.   He always puts them on the stand by his TV Couch so I know he enjoys getting them.  Even my DS made him a card because he made one for him on Father's Day and he liked it - a lot!   I always ask DH, "do you like this card?"   He always (of course) says "yes" but I noticed that he likes the really CAS (clean and simple) cards so this is what I made him.   I think he'll be surprised because I had DS put it out for him to find next to the coffee pot.   This sketch is October Week 1 of Viva La Verve sketch on SCS.  Fun, fun!  Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper Kraft, sage Polka Dotr, French Roast Shimmer;  Stamps: owls well; Ink:  French Roast, Papaya;  Fresh Blooms, French Roast Buttons, French Roast Organdy Ribbon

Leaves, Leaves and More Leaves

Right now, we live in what I would call a rural area.  No, we don't live on a farm and we do have neighbors that are close enough to walk to but we don't live in the "city", no sidewalks or streetlights, laugh!  Our property is surrounded by trees.   It's very beautiful in the beginning of Fall when all of the leaves are changing colors but as the leaves start to fall, it really becomes a lot of work because we are surrounded by trees.  We do have to continue to clean off the porches, the drive way to keep them out of the garage/house and the flower beds.  I still love all the colors and it was fun to stamp more leaves from my A Muse Studio fresh foliage stamps.   This fun sketch came from this week's Card Pattern's #136.   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Grass Shimmer, French Roast Shimmer, Grass Damask Couture, Kraft;  Stamps:  fresh foliage;  Ink:  French Roast, Papaya, Grass;  Buttons:  Grass Assortment;  Twine;  Nestabilities Labels 4

You Can Do It!

Happy Monday!  It's that time of the week when it's the toughest to get going, get motivated and get the week off to a good start.   My Sis has a job interview today and although I just made this card this weekend I was thinking of her!   She's amazing - 3 boys and soon to have a new addition to our family - our first niece.   How special!   I don't tell her enough how impressed and inspired I am by her.   She's a great Momma and a terrific Sis.   Pregnancy wears on your confidence though (probably exhaustion) and I was just wanted her to know ... I'm behind her!   Prayers, Good Luck Vibes and all the {{cyber}} hugs I can send are going her way today!   My card design came from a Sketch at Karen's Doodles #83 which I found when browsing through the Stampin' When I Can blog that compiles available sketches for the week.   Thanks for stopping by!   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio -  Paper:  Orange Gingham, Sage Polka Dot, Lime Shimmer;  Stamps:  making a difference;  Ink:  Orange, Lime;  Lime Ribbon,  Butterfly Die;  Twinkles

Sunshine Inspired

It's funny ... I have all of my Fall and Halloween stamps, inks and paper colors out next to my desk and it just seems that the 80 + degree weather we've been having has been inspiring me for Summer cards still?   This cute SU! Bella Rose paper was calling my name and it worked for the MOJO Monday #209.  I had this card done earlier this week and it's been laying here on my desk just waiting to be photo'd.   Not sure what I was waiting for?  The fun part is that I made 3 of these cards and I have the envies already addressed and ready to mail.   It's such a good feeling when you know just who's going to get Happy Mail!  Hopefully they'll enjoy this card as much as I have this week!  Supplies:  All SU!  Paper - Bella Rose DSP,  Stamps - Vintage Vogue,  Ink - Riding Hood Red, Kiwi Kiss, Choc Chip,  Satin Ribbon Olive

Still Decking the Halls

I just love these colors!  They make me think Christmas no matter what I add to it ... even flowers.  I'm just having such a great time trying out all of these Christmas card designs.   This year I might just be sending out a variety, LOL!  I know I'll be using these colors as they just strike my fancy this year.  I like the buttons and the sparkle too!   I'll be back with more Christmas cards I'm sure!  I'm adding this to my growing pile.  This cute sketch is from The Sweet Stop challenge #128.   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Wasabi, Cherry Gingham,  Twas the Night;  Ink:  Cherry, Wasabi;  Stamps:  cool yule;  Flowers:  Meadow Mix;  Cranberry Buttons;  Wasabi Satin Ribbon;  Sparkles

It's a Shout Out

Yep!  I'm givin' a "Shout Out" to 2 of my favorite stampin' friends -- Jenn and Samantha!  What's so cool is that they've started a new Challenge Blog - Perfect Sentiments Challenge!  So if you're looking for a fun challenge on Wednesday's stop by and check it out!   This week the challenge was to use lace and come up with a sympathy card.  Fortunately I don't need one right now but it will be good to have one in the stash.  The sketch is from this week's Freshly Made Sketches #5.  I always enjoy getting out the A Muse Studio Shimmer paper out.  Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Latte Woodgrain,  Ocean Shimmer, Ocean Shimmer Damask, French Roast Shimmer;  Stamps:  life is a song;  Ink:  Ocean, French Roast;  Flowers: Meadow Mix

Hope Is ...

This month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Think Pink!  It's especially meaningful to me because 38 years ago  this October my Mom died of breast cancer.  The treatments we have now weren't available but a cure would be even better!   As busy women, we sometimes forget to take time to care for ourselves -- Let's Not Forget Prevention is the Best Cure!  Hope is... believing in a brighter tomorrow.   This is an older SU! set, as a matter of fact, I don't even know what it's called?    I embossed the heart for PALS Paper Arts #113 challenge for this week.  This card sketch is from Card Patterns #135.   Supplies:  Paper - Basic Grey Sweet Threads, Archivers Olive;  Stamps - SU!;  Ribbon - Old Olive SU! Satin;  Brads - Amer Crafts

Yay Fall!

With all the wind we had today,  I had to go back to Fall cards because it's just such perfect timing.  As soon as I saw the cute card sketch today on the sweetest thing Challenge #137, I couldn't wait to play!  It was fun because it was a different size than usual.   I used 6.5 x 3.5, just in case you're wondering.  These A Muse Stamps are such fun leaf stamps.  I really need to get me some orange ink though because I'm jealous of the pretty oranges and reds that are starting to come on the trees outside.  I'll need to be moving to those colors soon to keep up, ha!  I added buttons for the A Muse Studio World Cardmaking Day Button challenge and I just checked out the A Muse Studio Challenge #7 this week and the challenge there was to add leaves so that works perfectly for my card.  Welcome October!   Supplies:  A Muse Studio - Paper:  Latte Woodgrain, Grass Shimmer Damask, Grass & Papaya Shimmer;  Stamps:  fresh foliage;  Ink:  French Roast, Papaya and Grass;  Buttons:  Buttercup

One Person CAN Make A Difference

Oh how I wish you could see this card IRL!  I added glitter to the bird and it's so just very sparkly with the glitter and the bling.   This was a fun card to make because the lovely A Muse Blackberry Shimmer paper was gifted to me on a PIF thread.  I only had enough for two of these cards and since I was making it for someone special, it felt just right.   The card sketch is from this week's Sweet Sketch Wednesday #121.  It was one of the cards I finished for World Cardmaking Day!  What a great way to share "thinking of you" thoughts than with cards.  Enjoy!   Supplies:  A Muse Studio,  Paper:  Blackberry Shimmer,  Blackberry Damask Shimmer, Wasabi;  Stamps: making a difference;  Ink:  Wasabi, Heather, Blackberry, Momento Black; Butterfly Die;  Twinkles; 

Have A Cool Yule!

So if you've been following my blog recently, you will have noticed that every other post seems to be a Christmas Card!  Whatever am I going to post in December, LOL!   Maybe Snowmen for January or Hearts for Valentines?   I don't know?  Every year I go through this process to find a Christmas Card design that "strikes" my fancy.  I make those to send out.  I tried one year sending out a variety but then I couldn't remember the next year who got what kind of card and I always think I want them to be varied.  It's crazy I know but it's fun ... really!   Usually after about 2 or 3 card designs I have just the one I like.  This year however, I seem to not be able to choose.  It's sure been a fun process though and I just might have to send a variety because so far ... I like them all.   This cute card sketch is from this week' sPaper Take Weekly and it worked perfectly for the A Muse Studio World Cardmaking Day challenge to use buttons.  These cherry buttons are my favorite!  Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Cherry Vintage CS, Cherry CS, Onyx CS; Stamps:  cool yule;  Ink:  Wasabi, Cherry, Momento Black; Cherry Organdy Dot Ribbon;  Cherry Buttons;  Washi Tape

Welcome October!

Happy World Cardmaking Day!!  I can't believe it's time to get out the Halloween stamps again and start scaring it up, LOL!  Well, not really because most of the stamps are "too cute to spook".   These fun new Halloween stamps arrived in my mailbox on Friday thanks to my GREAT A Muse Demo Samantha who ordered them up for me.   This set was just too cute to pass up and I'm looking forward to playing with them all of this month.  Of course, that will be in between Christmas cards as you know if you stopped by my blog in the last couple weeks I'm hunting for that perfect Christmas card design.  In the mean time, my collection of Christmas cards is growing!  This fun sketch is from this weeks Freshly Made Challenge #4 and was just perfect for using the fence diecut.   I embossed the cat for the PALS #113 challenge this week to heat emboss.  I hope to do another as I don't use those supplies as often as I should and always like the look.  Enjoy!   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper Grass Damask Shimmer, Pebble, Onyx, Papaya Shimmer;  Stamps:  Too Cute to Spook;  Ink:  Memento Black, Versamark;  Fence Diecute;  Washi Tape;  Misc (non A Muse) ribbon

Christmas Flowers

I do like poinsettias.   I have since I had a customer that was a grower and I used to tour their greenhouses in the Fall for all of the new blooms they had coming out for the holidays.   It was BEAUTIFUL to see rows and rows and rows of lovely red flowers.  Of course, one of the special spots was the greenhouse with all the research and development strains of poinsettias they were working on.   It was like a rainbow of mixed colors and sizes and they were unique and some were even pretty.   Since they were in research phase, some didn't come out exactly as they had hoped or planned.  This card is a little like one of the research flowers.  It needed just a little more sparkle for my liking.   I sprayed it with stardust finishing spray so IRL it has a glimmer but that doesn't show in the picture.  I also realized it's missing a sentiment so I'll have to go back and add one later or maybe just leave it for a nice Holiday Thank you card?  You'll see more of this raindeer though....Card Sketch from Paper Players #65.  Supplies:  All A Muse Studio - Paper:  Wasabi, Cherry, French Roast Shimmer, Twas The Night;  Stamps:  Nordic Noel;  Ink:  French Roast, Wasabi, Cherry;  Cherry Organdy Dot Ribbon,  French Roast Buttons, Twinkles, Stickles

be merry!

As you can see,  I'm back to playing with Christmas papers.  These Christmas tree stamps are some of my favorite and I'm sure one of my designs will include these CUTE trees.   Probably these will be for friends and family close as I like these flowers but mailing them is difficult.  I did get tags and Christmas Envelope seals in the mail today so it felt like another good day to work on a couple more Christmas card designs.  This sketch is this week's MOJO Monday #208.   I used these flowers in my design as part of the last A-Muse-A-Palooza Challenge #6 for A Muse Studio challenges.   I'm sure I'll be back this weekend with more Christmas cards, after all, it's World Cardmaking Day on Saturday ... who can resist?  Supplies:  All   A Muse Studio - Paper:  Candy Cane Stripe, French Roast Shimmer, Twas The Night, Cherry, Wasabi;  Stamps:  Cool Yule,  Buttons:  Cherry;  Stickles Holiday Red,  CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge, Sparkles

Woot! Woot!

Tonight I just needed a "Thinking of You" card!  It seems like it's been awhile since I've done just a card for every day.  I've been wanting to play with these Owls but hadn't come up with something yet until I saw the card challenge at Card Patterns #134 for this week.  I still had the twine out from the Amuse Challenge Blog challenge to use twine so I was inspired to use that again.  I just love when I use an idea from a challenge especially for a 2nd time!   Woot! Woot!   It's Wednesday.   Supplies:  All A Muse Studio :  Paper - Latte Woodgrain, Grass Shimmer, French Roast Shimmer;  Stamps - Owls Well;  Ink - French Roast, Papaya;  Cloud Dies,  Blooms, Twine, French Roast Buttons

Ahhh Bliss

I was talking (well actually texting) with my Sister and she tells me she's exhausted.  It's to be expected because she's pregnant.  This baby blessing is coming late in life, her youngest is 7 and her oldest is going to college next year.   We're all so very happy though because she's having a girl and we have all boys in the family right now.  I was thinking though about how different our life points are at this time.  I'm enjoying lots of free time because my youngest is a Senior in High School as well and my oldest is in college.   While I'm not exactly ready to have them both out of the house it does have it's moments like tonight.  I got home late, heated some leftovers just for me as they had already eaten and went to my stamp room to alter this notebook and 2 year planner for my SCS DSS.  What a great way to spend an evening ... ahhh, bliss!  The design for the altered journal was inspired by the sketch this week at The Paper Players #65.  I used some SU! Paper because she's a fan and some cute stamps I bought at a crafting garage sale.  Supplies:  Paper SU! Ginger Blossom,  SU! Stamps Bliss,  SU! Ink Groovy Guava, Regal Rose, River Rock, Choc Chip,  All Flower Punches SU!

Inspired to be Merry

Wow, I don't know what's gotten into me lately but I've sure been enjoying getting out the Christmas papers and getting some card designs completed.  Usually, I'm waiting until temps get colder and Christmas music comes on the radio but here I am again with another Christmas Card!   I always enjoy getting out the square card bases to mix it up a little.  If I keep going I'll have all different cards for this years holiday instead of just one design...that will be fun.   Today's sketch is inspired from this week's Sweet Sketch Wednesday #119.  I really have enjoyed mixing up my A Muse patterned papers and as you're quickly learning I'll need another Wasabi pack of paper before the holiday even arrives, LOL!   This week's Challenge on the A Muse Challenge Blog was to use twine and it worked perfectly with this card design!  Let's Be Merry!  Supplies:  A Muse  Studio Cardstock Cherry, Wasabi,  French Roast Shimmer, Candy Cane Stripe, Vintage;  Ink:   A Muse  Studio Cherry, French Roast;  Stamps:  A Muse  Studio vintage holiday greetings;  Ribbon:  A Muse  Studio Wasabi Satin

Still Celebrating Fall's Arrival

Autumn is such a pretty time of year ... beautiful colors on the trees and usually nice sunny days with moderate temps.  I am really enjoying playing with the new A Muse Studio stamps I purchased - fresh foliage.   The leaves in this set are just perfect for adding fave Fall colors to the card.  Tonight I chose Grass Green and Buttercup.   This fun sketch is from a new Blog I discovered Freshly Made Sketches #3.  I like their clean designs and hope to go back and do the first 2 sketch challenges as well.  I was also inspired by the challenge at Pals Paper Arts #112 to find some lace and add it to the card.  I think it really added nicely to this sketch.  I completed a card without the lace also and like this one much better.  Supplies:  A Muse Studio Paper:  French Roast & Buttercup Shimmer,  Grass Shimmer Damask,  A Muse Studio Stamps:  fresh foliage,  Ink:  A Muse French Roast, Grass,  SU! Summer Sun,  A Muse Studio Buttercup Buttons, SU! Eyelet Border Punch

2nd Post Today - Christmas #2

Ok, I wanted to get this posted before the MOJO MONDAY #207 closed for this week.  It seems Sundays are a great day for me to get stamping done so I always have cards for this weeks challenges ready to load.  I really like how this card turned out.   I do have another sketch idea for my Christmas Cards and hope to narrow down 2 or 3 designs that I like so I can start getting them mass produced.   Not alot, maybe 10 of each but always fun process.   I thought this was a cute sketch to use because I do like the fun A Muse papers for the background.   Supplies:  All Supplies A Muse Studio - Paper:   Candy Cane, Twas The Night, Wasabi, Cherry,  Stamps:  nordic noel, cool yule,  Ink:  Cherry, French Roast, Wasabi,  Ribbon:  Wasabi Satin,  Button:  Cranberry Mix

Fall Is Here!

Thursday was the first day of Autumn and it brought rain however this weekend it's been beautiful sunny days with high 60 temps here in Ohio...almost perfect for September.   The color is just starting to come out and the leaves are falling!  I couldn't wait to get out my new A Muse Studio fresh foliage stamps.  The leaves are SO cute in this set, very versatile.   The sketch this week is from PALS Paper Arts Challenge #111.  I also cut the leaves out and sprayed them with A Muse Stardust finishing spray for the challenge at the A Muse Challenge Blog #5 to make your own embellishment.  I really enjoy the stardust finishing spray!  It adds just the right touch of sparkle.   I'm really thankful for Fall and the color we're blessed with.  I'll be making more of these cards for Thanksgiving notes to friends and family.  What a great idea from the A-Muse-A-Palooza Challenge #5!  Supplies:  All A Muse Studio Orange Swiss Dot, A Muse Stamps fresh foliage, A Muse French Roast Organdy Dot Ribbon,  A Muse Lime Buttons

Looking for "The Card"

Every year it's time to start thinking about getting my Christmas Cards done I start playing with different designs and papers.   It usually takes me 3 or 4 different tries to find one I really like and want to make "the Card".   The one I'm going to send out to friends and family that year.   Of course,  all the "tries" get sent out too, LOL!   I really like this card design but I think I would use a different color green.  I have some new
A Muse Wasabi that I think would go great with this design,  just didn't have the ribbon to go with it and I liked the dimension the ribbon added.   Guess I'll just have to call my A Muse Demo and place another order for Wasabi Satin Ribbon, haha!  I'm sure she won't mind. Also had chance to use Stardust Finishing Spray which IRL, is very sparkly on the trees.

The card  is inspired from  Card Patterns #132.   I made this card for the A-Muse-A-Palooza Challenge #3.  More to come with my Christmas Cards ...  Supplies:  A Muse Candy Cane CS, Misc White CS, Stamps A Muse Cool Yule,  A Muse Ink Cherry, Lime (bottom card Wasabi),  A Muse Lime Satin Ribbon, A Muse Stardust Finishing Spray, Scallop Border Punch

At Peace

I'm sad today, My Aunt Gloria passed away Thursday.  She was 88 and died peacefully at home in her sleep.  I can rejoice that she is in a better place and I think she's enjoying Heaven and the chance to see my Uncle Leon again.   I have very fond memories of both of my Aunt and Uncle as I lived with them for a couple years when I was young during which time my Mom was so ill.   I still have some of the dolls and teddy bears she made for me.  She was quite crafty and loved to sew, knit and crochet.   She will be dearly remembered. 

Once again this week I forgot to write down where I found this cute card sketch.  I'm really going to have to do a better job of recording that.  It worked great with some cute Basic Grey Sweet Threads paper and my favorite A Muse Studio stamps "on the wing".   I cut the scallop circle  & the tab from the CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cart and used buttons and  pop dots on the scallop for dimension for the A Muse Blog Challenge.  Supplies:  Bazzill Olive CS, Basic Grey Sweet Threads, Stamps A Muse Studio "on the wing", A Muse Ink Lime, Bubblegum, Momento Black, Misc Olive Ribbon

Happy Labor Day!

Today is "labor" day around my house as we did a MAJOR Garage/Storage Clean Out!  Whew, it was alot of work but it's Done!  YAY!   It's been one of those projects that's needed to get done but just always had something else to do instead.   This weekend was the perfect time to what we hoped, get started but we ended up taking 2 days and just completing it.   We were worried we wouldn't get back out there, ha!   I was hoping for the A-Muse -A-Palooza Challenge on Facebook but they must have taken a holiday today.  This cute little card I hadn't posted yet, it was made while I was traveling.  SO glad I could take along some stamping stuff for a little creativity time.   I forgot to mark down which sketch it was,  I'm pretty sure I found it on the weekly sketches at Stampin' When I Can.   It's a GREAT site for lots of ideas but just need to make sure you write down when you find one to use so you can find it again if you want to use it again or do another one.   More Amuse goodies - especially the cool French Roast Woodgrain my friend (and Amuse Studio Demo) Samantha shared with me!  Supplies:  Amuse Ocean CS, Kraft CS, French Roast Woodgrain, French Roast Shimmer, Stamps On The Wing, Amuse Blooms, CTMH Pearls

Today It's 2

So yes,  I know I just posted another card not too long ago but today it's 2 cards because I want to get this one posted before the deadline tonight on the A-Muse-A-Palooza Facebook Site.   It would sure be awesome to win 3 new Ink Pads!   The challenge was to use Onyx and Orange.  Now these 2 colors would have probably been much better with Halloween stamps but I didn't have any.   I tried to come up with an idea with the stamps I had but after about 45 minutes,  I decided it was futile.  IRL,  the glitter doesn't look so heavy and gives a nice sparkle to the card.   The sketch is from the sweetest thing #133.  I'm sure I'll be back with another card using this sketch.   Thanks for peeking in!   Supplies:  Amuse CS Orange, Shimmer Damask Onyx,  Onyx Gingham,  Ink Amuse Lime, SU! Pumpkin Pie, Stamps Amuse Beautiful Botanicals 2, On The Wing, Sparkles

Off To College

My BFF daughter Kels, is off to WMU for her first year of college!   It's a big step and I'm very excited for her.  She may not admit it but I know she'll miss her Mom :)  I just wanted her to know I was thinking of her.  My sketch today is Mojo Monday #206.   I doodled around the outside for our September "ABC" Challenge on Friends That Scrap - "D" for doodling.  I'm off to make more cards ... my Ragweed allergies are definitely keeping me in doors during this time of year.  Supplies:  Paper Archivers CS, Basic Grey Hello Luscious and Sweet Threads, Stamp Amuse Wild Blossom, Ink Amuse French Roast, Misc Copic, Distressed Stickles Worn Lipstick, CTMH Sparkles

happy [belated] birthday

I made this card for my Admin at work.  She's TERRIFIC and I even had her birthday written on my calendar and I still missed it.  Oh well,   I guess this way she'll be really surprised.   I also missed the deadline for uploading my card for this week's Card Patterns #130 Sketches, it's the sketch I used on this one.  These cute Amuse Stamps were the stamp gift at Amuse On The Road!  If an event comes to a city near you,  Go!  Lots of fun!   Supplies:  All Amuse - Paper Sage Polka Dot, Kraft & Grass CS,  Stamps - a very merry un-birthday, Ink  - French Roast Lime, Buttons - French Roast, Butterfly Die, Twinkle Stickers

Inspiration Found!

This week's Amuse Challenge Blog was an Inspiration Challenge with beautiful colors!  SO love the Amuse Bermuda papers and Ocean Ribbon and of course one of my fave sentiment stamps, "Just Because".   This fun sketch for this week's card came from Free For All Friday from GinaK Designs, cute hunh?  I was so happy I was able to bring a backpack of stampin' goodies with me on this trip.  It's amazing how the MOJO works when you have limited supplies.  Always a fun thing.  Of course, after last week's challenge,  I'm thinking about adding glitter when I get home, LOL.   What do you think?   Supplies:  All Amuse - Paper Bermuda CS & Bermuda Polka Dot, Stamps Just Because, Ink Ocean, Papaya, Lime, Ribbon Ocean Stitched Grosgrain

Still Playing with Green

LOL!  I know, I know ... I need to get these beautiful Amuse "Green" scraps used up or off my desk!  They're just so pretty and hard not to pick up and play with when they're out.   I think I'm getting the hang of "CAS" cards as my new Amuse Studio Supplies lend themselves to this style.  I never thought I'd use the woodgrain paper that Samantha shared with me but I've found it fun to add however the Kraft is still my fave so far.  I'll have to come back and edit my post with an update on where I found this card sketch.  The French Roast Shimmer and Organdy Dot ribbon work so well with these greens.   All supplies Amuse.  Supplies:  Amuse Stamps life is a song, Amuse Paper Gingham, Shimmer Damask, French Roast Shimmer, Amuse Ink Grass, French Roast, Amuse Twinkle, Amuse Blooms

Thinking of You

These lovely products were still laying on my desk from creating my card for the Amuse Challenge Blog inaugural Challenge.  The Amuse greens are lovely shades, all of them are my favorite.  The branch cut out was the one I used on my last card, just using the reverse.   This "Thinking of You" card is for a friend of mine, she's going through a rough time.   I used the Mojo Monday #205 sketch.   Supplies:  All Amuse - Paper Grass Shimmer Couture, Grass Gingham, Grass Shimmer Damask, French Roast, Stamps Life Is A Song, French Roast Organdy Dot Ribbon, Bakers Twine, French Roast Buttons, Butterfly Die, Twinkle

Monday Moments

Tonight it was quiet around my house.  It was time for my DS to move back to college.  This year he's living in an apartment off campus so he was especially excited to get there and get moved in.  My DH and other DS drove with him since we had furniture for him so when I got home from work - it was just "ME TIME"!  Not that my family really bothers me in the scrap room but there's just something different about having the house to myself for awhile, it rarely happens.  Today was the launch of the Amuse Challenge Blog and the Challenge for this inaugural week was to use Glitter. Not something I use too often however last week at the Amuse On The Road Event, we did one card where we used it and it wasn't so bad.  My favorite part of this card however is the branch I cut with my new Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge from CTMH.  The Amuse Shimmer Paper cut so beautifully.  I love how the branch turned out.  I used the Sketch from this week's Viva La Verve.    I was thinking of my DS when I made this card because him and I had a wonderful time out on a "date" Sunday together.  I will miss him!  Supplies:  All Amuse - Paper:  Shimmer Couture CS French Roast, Grass;  Latte Woodgrain, Grass Gingham,  Stamps:  On The Wing,  Ribbon:  French Roast Organdy Dot;  Buttons:  Grass, French Roast;  Ink:  Grass, Papaya, French Roast, Glitter

Thank You!

This week I had the FABULOUS opportunity to go to an Event, "Amuse On The Road" in Akron, Ohio.  It was a delightful night of stamping and socializing and even more enjoyable, we got to meet Linda  (Owner) and Heather from Amuse Studios.    Of course, I got to also spend time with my favorite Crafty Couple - Samantha & Jeremy!   We had a GREAT time!   This is my "Thank You" Card for Linda :)  Of course, I can't wait for tomorrow - Amuse-A-Palooza so make sure to stop by my friend Samantha's Amuse Studio Blog for all the details.   For this card, out came my favorite stamps - "Just Because".   I also used this week's sketch from MOJO MONDAY #204  Supplies:  All Amuse Except Organdy Ribbon.   Amuse paper Bermuda Polka Dot, Kraft, Amuse Stamps Just Because, Hand Scripted, Ink Bermuda, Lime, Ocean, Amuse Meadow Mix Flowers, Amuse Twinkle

Yes, I'm Smiling!

I love Friday nights!  The work week is done, seems like everyone in my house has their favorite past time they like to go do and that leaves me free to stamp and scrap!   Tonight was no different and I was feeling inspired after a GREAT time at Amuse On the Road!   It was really neat to meet Linda, the owner.  Of course, the best part was spending time with my friends Samantha and Jeremy and I met some other nice ladies as well.   I didn't get to start making cards until late because I was scrapping but I wanted to get a card made to go out on Monday to my Secret Sister.  The sketch is from the sweetest thing "Sweet Sunday Sketch #130".   It worked perfectly also to use my Cricut for the main image as of course I had my CTMH Art Philosophy Cartridge already at work for my scrap pages.   This cute paper is from jillibean soup - Blossom - it's all darling!  I love the butterflies!   Enjoy!  Supplies:  Paper Bazzill Frosted Teal, jilliben Blossom Soup, SU! Choc Chip,  Stamps CTMH From Me to You, Amuse Hand Scripted,  Ink CTMH Olive, SU! Choc Chip, Misc Sparkles, CTMH Cricut Cart Art Philosophy

You Are Amazing!

This week I found a great sketch to use at Card Patterns #128. I especially enjoyed getting back out the BG Sweet Threads paper I got not too long ago. Such FUN colors! For the flower, I used my new CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge. It cuts so many amazing shapes!  Enjoy!  Supplies:  Paper Basic Grey Sweet Threads, CS Archivers, Stamps Amuse, MS Flower Border Punch, Amuse Button, CM Butterfly Punch, Misc Lace