Julia's Creative Musings

Owl Punch again.

2010-10-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Owl Punch!

Russell had requested some craft time, specifically to use the Owl Punch. We made bookmarks for the kids who are at our bus stop. They were cut with the cricut, as were the initials. We added wings to the owls by punching 1-1/4 inch circles and punching those with the Scallop Circle Punch to get the wavy underside. Russell wanted it to look like his owl had its wings folded behind itself, and figured out how to do that.

The Owl Punch can also make bats! Punch as usual. This time, punch a 1-1/4 inch circle but when you insert it into the Scallop Circle Punch, concentrate on aligning the circle to produce the bat underwing instead of the round scallops (look at the pieces you punched for the owl wings-- the opposite side of what you used is pointed like bat wings). Russell liked these so much he decorated his Reading Log with them, and has requested we make these as the toppers for this year's Halloween pencils (look at OCt 2009 for a photo of those).

2010-09-25T16:55:00.000-07:00

Yea it's Fall!

Swap time! I have to apologize though-- Petra did participate and I loved her card. So much so that it is on the way to my Dad for his birthday, and someone will have to send me a picture of it to put on the blog!

This first card is by Tracy. I love the fall colors and how she blended colors on the leaf. Beautiful.

Aww, isn't he cute? Nancy made him with the cricut-- inside he asks "Ruff Day?" That has also already gone in the mail to a friend!

Heidi was nice enough to give me TWO of her cricut pandas! I HAVE to find some time to use my cricut.....

This is SU!'s new Owl Punch and I love it! Too easy and too cute. The tree and envie are stamped with Season of Friendship.

Back to School Chocolate

2010-09-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

My favorite kind! Both the brand, and the words "Back to School"! :)
Yes, I know, my kids don't think I am funny either. Molly's Open House was last night and tonight we have Russell's. I am not sure why, but I always start the year by giving the teachers chocolate! I am not usually organized enough to have it for Open House Night, but this chocolate was calling my name-- needed to get it out of the house QUICKLY. There are 2-- one for his new teacher, and one for last year's teacher who we will miss immensely.

All I did was my favorite chocolate wrapper technique-- I cut Rose Red CS to 7 1/2 X 5, and cut the designer paper (retired Raspberry Tart) slightly smaller. The ribbon is Purely Pomegranate satin ribbob, and that about finished the roll. Darn, I loved that ribbon. Whoops, time to go, later!

Upsy Daisy

2010-08-25T05:55:00.000-07:00

This is also a CASE, this time pretty much an exact one! I was inspired by kirstysb's pretty red daisies, but also wanted to use the new Daffodil Delight yellow SU! introduced. Perfect summer cards!

Elements of Style

2010-08-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

I was tickled pink to get this stamp set-- vintage is a style I don't often use. I had such a time with this and no, I do not mean a good time. I had various beautiful creations from SCS as guides and couldn't make any of mine look that wonderful. Finally, I tried CASE-ing one done by Susie Nelson (search for susie nelson on SCS) and it worked! I really like this. I used Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, and Very Vanilla. The bird is Cherry Cobbler stamped on Crumb Cake (or can I just call it Kraft?).

Happy New Baby!

2010-08-09T10:47:00.000-07:00

Neighbors welcomed a baby boy on Wednesday. Another neighbor organized some meals to give them a break. It wasn't until I was baking a cake to go with the meal I was taking them Saturday that I realized I hadn't made a card yet! Off to SCS for some inspiration (which came from addicted2crafting). I did several changes to her card, but the scalloped square animals from Wild About You and scalloped edge top layer are straight cases. Changes I did make: matting the scallop squares, different color for the giraffe, a polka dot background, bow instead of mounting the squares on the ribbon, and not making it a one-layer card.

More Fifth Avenue Floral

2010-08-08T06:41:00.000-07:00

Why did it take me so long to use this set? I love it! I wanted the flowers to have the same color variations as if I had colored them with the Reinker Spread technique-- but of course, as I was coloring these at Tae Kwan Do, that would have been a bit messy! So the Wonderful Watercolor Crayons came back out and I colored and shaded and dabbed and redid......I'm pretty happy with all of these. Then, once home, I painted Crystal Effects on the roses for a little more "oomph." What do you think?

This last one is on the way to my sister Debbie, who fell down the stairs on the first day of their family vacation and broke her foot! And, sad stamper that I am, I didn't have any cards ready to send. I'll get back downstairs tonight (I"ll need to craft -- or drink--after a late afternoon shopping trip with my 13 yr old) and remedy that. I love Pixie Pink and Basic Black together.

Fifth Avenue Floral

2010-08-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

OK, you all know my stampin' mojo went south on me and sometimes it seemed it would never be back! Russell started Tae Kwon Do (did I spell that correctly?) this week, which brought back memories of when both kids did karate. I think I stamped most of the time they did karate, I always had a project with me (and no doubt bored all around me as I stamped and chatted away!). Piano lessons. Gymnastics. Everywhere. So this week, I packed a box of supplies, a stamp set that has gotten very little love from me, and off we went. I needed 3 birthday cards for Byron's mom, sister, and sister-in-law (yep, within 2 days of each other). Watercolor crayons are great for this kind of on-the-go coloring. I'm hooked again! Since I made these on Thursday, I have also done birthday cards, thinking of you cards, and a (if I do say so myself) adorable baby card. Stay tuned, I will post them soon!

Finally back!

2010-08-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, it has been a while. Since February to be precise! Life took a hard left and there just was not time to keep playing on Blogger. Of course, right now I am supposed to be doing homework, but we won't go there. I did stamp in the long months since February, but it was always in a super-hurry, get-this-done-and-in-an-envelope way.

I fell in love with the lighthouse stamp thanks to the influence of my friend Kelley (who I hope is recuperating well from a bad fall) who is always on the lookout for lighthouses-- her hubby is a retired USCG officer. I CASED these cards I do apologize, I did them so long ago that I have forgotten where I stashed the creator's names. I will do better from now on!

With Sympathy.......

2010-02-24T15:03:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the long absence, once again I am snowed under with work (pardon the pun! and NO! I do NOT want any more snow this winter! Go away, snow!). Here is another card from our swap. Heidi made these STEP sympathy cards at my request, as I knew of 2 situations for which I would be needing these. Unfortunately, this month I had three friends lose members of their families. There is little enough one can do for someone suffering a loss, but a beautiful card certainly lets that person know they are in your thoughts and prayers. Heidi CASED this from SCS. The steps "unfold" and it can stand alone. The shine is from the glossy paper, and the set is Asian Artistry. CASE or not, she did a lovely job!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T06:08:00.001-08:00

I never got around to making more Valentine's-- Heidi to the rescue! She sent me this pic of ones she made and was nice enough to hand me one, too. Thanks Heidi!

So glad for inspiration!

2010-02-11T07:23:00.000-08:00

You have no idea how many times I have wished for some free time since going back to work. Ironic, then, that once we did have some, thanks to our epic snow, I couldn't get anything going creatively!! I'm in a monthly swap with 4 other stampers, which keeps me on my toes (I'll be sharing their designs later). I stamped and fiddled and stamped and rearranged and finally gave up. Molly loves it when this happens, by the way, because she gets everything I stamped and didn't like. In desperation I surfed my favorite inspiration site and soon my brain was spinning from the never-ending talent displayed there.

This card is an almost-exact CASE of one by kharmagirl, whose designs I have copied before. CASE, by the way, means Copy-And-Share-Everything. When someone posts a design on a stamping site, he or she is giving permission to copy the design, but it is always a good idea to give credit, too. Thoughts and Prayers has been sitting in my stash-- this is the first time I have pulled it out (but won't be the last). I used Elegant Eggplant and Old Olive markers to color the image. It just didn't look right until I followed Judi's lead and paper-pierced the edges, too. Judi's card used some HodgePodge Hardware and the sentiment was stamped in Eggplant on Rose Red-- I didn't have 15 pieces of hardware that were the same, so I just stamped the sentiment on the main image. The sentiments are from Elegant Cheer-- I use that one so often you probably already recognized it-- and I did 5 each of Birthday Wishes, Many Thanks, and For my friend.

Of course there had to be something stamped on the inside! This is something I picked up from Gretchen Barron and it is very rare now that I do not stamp something on the inside panel. I think it just adds that little extra touch!

And after adding an extra touch to the inside, could I let the card be put in a PLAIN envelope? What do YOU think?

Oh thank heavens....

2010-01-29T17:03:00.000-08:00

It's Friday! You have NO idea how much I am looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow morning, and maybe seeing some friends Saturday. I am exhausted. It has been a draining week, with exams and some other crisis going on at school. I THINK everything is settled, but I still have 20 exams to grade (and then all the grades to enter on Monday). Can you believe I am actually hoping we do NOT have a snow day Monday? I have too much to do!

Back when Heidi, Nancy, Tracy, and I got together, I worked on (and have already sent) Valentines. Here's this year's card! Happy early Valentine's Day!

My card

2010-01-27T17:11:00.000-08:00

I can't take credit for this, although I would love to-- I completely cased it! The only problem is, I am not sure from whom (if any of you out there recognize this, please let me know!). I think it was Amy Celona or Andrea Wolford, but that is just a vague memory. This card was the reason I bought all that Afternoon Tea paper, but this is the first time I have made it. I do love it, but I will pass on to you that having watercolor paper is a must so that the color doesn't get muddy. The poppies were cut out and popped with a dimensional. I love doing that!

Heidi's cards

2010-01-22T13:53:00.000-08:00

These were supposed to be posted Thursday, using the photos she sent me via email, but for some reason I couldn't "pull" the photos into blogger. Finally this morning I just photographed the cards myself! Heidi used an adorable Cricut cartridge to make silhouette cards. I am so in love with the little girl holding the hearts, with the dog tugging at one? helping her carry it? I haven't quite decided. Also love the color scheme. Kudos, Heidi!

Still smiling!

2010-01-19T16:36:00.000-08:00

Yep, I am still smiling from stamping cards with friends yesterday. And, um, a wee bit of my good cheer comes from the fact that #1 ranked Texas LOST last night to KC State! That should mean my beloved Cats (#2 last week) MAY get the #1 ranking, IF they do not lose (so far we are 18-0) this week......here's hoping, but truly, the only ranking that matters is the one at the end of the NCAA tournament......

Here is Nancy's card! Look at the detail in the wreath. I thought the shiny stuff was small crystals but it is glitter. Very elegant!

Stamping as therapy....

2010-01-18T13:27:00.000-08:00

Truly, stamping is my therapy. I have TONS of stuff to do before heading into school tomorrow, but I am so glad I got to spend some time with some stamping friends today and get all inky. A lot cheaper than therapy, yes? And you actually have something to hold in your hands afterwards! We organized a quick swap-- we each made 12 cards (all the same design), 4 with a birthday sentiment, 4 that say Get Well Soon or Thinking of you, and 4 Thank You's. The ladies said I could share their cards with you on the blog, so we'll start with our hostess.......

Tracy's card! Bright and sunny. Look closely-- she sewed that layer onto the card (you can always get a close-up view by clicking on the photo to enlarge it). This is just the card to cheer someone up, don't you think?

more quick birthday cards

2010-01-06T17:39:00.000-08:00

I hope your week is going well! I'm finally out from under that ton of paper and starting to come up with Mid-Terms. In some ways a chore, but I am laughing at myself at how some quickly old teaching tricks are coming back to me (after all, I last taught in 1996!) and at how much homework *I* am having to do to keep up with the higher level kids ( IB 1 and 2 classes). In some ways that is a pain, it others it does give me a fair amount of freedom. For example, DC just enacted a 5 cent charge on plastic grocery bags (environmental reasons). Since in IB2 we were reading about smaller merchants versus giants (Walmart vs Mom and Pop stores) and how "le cabas" (reusable tote bag) came about, I pulled a comparison of plastic bags versus paper bags off of Le Monde.FR (lots of good green vocab, but if YOU know what Eutriphication is-- yes that is in English-- you are one up on me!) and assigned that for reading. Tomorrow we'll talk about the DC law, the article, and then (gasp!) they will have to write a short essay in class, using lots of good debate phrases also pulled off the internet-- a lovely UK site that is devoted to getting students through A- and O- French (I think that is our AP or Honors classes). I must say the internet is a godsend right now!

Ok on to my very quick cards! These are fold-out cards-- the cupcake swings open to reveal "Happy Birthday!". One for a boy(Only Orange candle and mat), one for a girl (Pixie Pink candle and mat), Tempting Turquoise for both, retired SU DSP, and OF COURSE there had to be glitter!

Girlie Money Holder

2010-01-03T12:15:00.001-08:00

Russell was invited to 2 birthday parties this weekend. As I am up to my ears in paperwork right now, I knew I'd have to do something quick for each of them. Fortunately, my WONDERFUL hubby gave me an electronic cutting system for Christmas, so I played with it and quickly came up with 2 projects (I'll post the other later in the week).

Maddie's birthday party was Saturday. Her mom told me she was saving for an iPod, so that made the gift selection easy-- money! I quickly measured a piece of retired SU Designer paper to wrap around my bill, and for a bib inside to hold the money in place. Maddie does not like pink, so I thought this soft Bashful Blue with tiny flowers was just the ticket. If you can't see the small flowers, just click on the picture itself and it should enlarge. The lace edge was punched with the Lace Edge punch (makes sense, yes?). "Maddie" I cut with Plantin Schoolbook.

On the back, Plantin again for the grass, but various SU punches for the flowers and circle centers. Quick and easy!

And most important-- the inside! I love that the double-sided paper saves me from having to do much with the inside. Happy Birthday, Maddie!

Happy First Day of 2010!

2010-01-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

Here are the final designs of New Year's cards we sent out this year. All except one used designer paper from that Vintage Victorian pack I picked up at a going out of business sale and gold, Mellow Moss, and Purely Pomegranate paper. The lone exception matched Riding Hood Red paper and ribbon (the one with the bow). Only one had the gold dove because it just didn't look right!

Je vous souhaite "Bonne Année et bonne santé". Que tous vos rêves se réalisent !

I wish for you all a wonderful year and good health. May all your dreams come true!

(I'm doing lesson plans today, had to warm up the brain for French again!)

One last Christmas card!

2009-12-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Day with our friends Kathy and Scott. Every year I browse through the cards they have received-- Kathy has some stamping friends who are amazing. This year was no exception. I particularly liked one card. Later when I saw my friend Heidi (who is also a friend of Kathy's), I described a card I saw at Kathy's made with Frosty. Heidi burst out laughing and told me she thought it was her card! Then she brought me one the next time we got together, and yep, she was right! I LOVE this card.

A very Happy New Year's Eve to all of you, and please be safe!

New Year cards!

2009-12-29T06:38:00.001-08:00

Here are the first designs of New Year's cards we sent this year. I have to confess that at a certain point, I stopped making Christmas cards and switched to New Year's instead, so I'd have a chance of sending them on time! As long as they arrive sometime in January, I'm good, right? Hope so anyway!

Glass Block Gifts

2009-12-24T11:01:00.000-08:00

I try to make something for Russell's Sunday School teachers' gifts. Maybe because I am in there once a month and I know how hard it can be to still smile at the end of the hour? I really appreciate them and want them to know it. You all KNOW my wonderful Russell (yes I mean that) and what a handful he can be (boy do I mean that). Now imagine a class full of Russells!! Enough said.

With our epic snowstorm, church was canceled last weekend, which gave me just enough time to finish these and get them into bags. I know we'll see Miss Melinda at church tonight, and I hope Miss Amy will be there too, but if not, she's around the corner and I will drop it off. The Santa image is from Wandering Words, from the Holiday Mini. I had all sorts of plans to use this, but as my time ran out, I only used it for these gifts!

I stamped with Staz On after dabbing Lovely Lavendar, Brocade Blue, and Night of Navy in a circular pattern around my Barely Banana moon. The tree is from (what else?) Lovely as a Tree, and to get the perfectly circular moon I punched a 1-3/4" circle out of a post-it note for a mask, and used the circle opening left over to sponge the moon. Microbeads diffuse the light. It is hard to get a good picture, but these are really pretty sitting in a dimly lit room!

Chrismas cards

2009-12-23T04:44:00.000-08:00

Back when a local scrapbooking store went out of business, I found a pack of Vintage Victorian paper whose colors matched the then In Color Purely Pomegranate. I tucked away the last of my PP paper with that and basically forgot about it until a friend asked if I had any more Purely Pom paper. I gave her what I could find, but KNEW I had more somewhere. It was a happy surprise to find this patterned paper! Not all the designs worked with the images I wanted to use (Gifts of Christmas) but I do like what I came up with.

I embossed the edge of the Very Vanilla card in gold, and the designer paper as well (but not the mat). I liked that so much I carried on with the envelopes (there you go, that's my over the top touch for this year!). The sentiment on the inside is embossed as well, and matted with the coordinating color. Making 40 of these in one day, I started to worry about my heat gun giving out!

This patterned paper (from the same pack) is shot through with silver marbling, so I decided to try a few with silver. I like these better with the Happy New Year stamp (I will show you those in a few days)-- I think it is just personal preference, I like the gold better.

This paper (still the same pack) was a perfect match for Mellow Moss, and had gold marbling (hard to see that). I liked this combo, too, but my favorite of all was the Purely Pomegranate-- it seemed more the Victorian look I was going for.

2009-12-22T06:33:00.001-08:00

The snow meant I couldn't get out and do last minute shopping for my sister's grandkids in KY. NavyFed gift cards to the rescue! These gift card holders are patterned after one given to me by Audrey at least 2 years ago (I never throw anything away that I might be able to use as a pattern!). It is a strip of CS 2.75 by 8.5, scored at 3.5, and folded up to form the holder. Clip the ends with scissors and decorate as desired. That's it! I used Holiday Tag Team for the images. My wonderful husband rushed these and some other goodies to the Post Office. I hope they get there in time!

Kim's card

2009-12-21T05:09:00.000-08:00

A friend who used to stamp in one my clubs sent me this card-- she's moved away but we email occasionally. I bought this set-- Delightful Decorations--- and the matching punch, but due to going back to work, haven't had a chance to use it! Notice this is a gate fold card, which is always a WOW. Kim, I hope it is OK I show off your creation since I don't have one of my own!

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

2009-12-20T05:47:00.000-08:00

The wish of every school child (and not a few teachers, LOL!) on the Eastern Seaboard was granted over the weekend. Snow began falling Friday night and didn't stop here in Northern Virginia until late Saturday night. This is the view from my front door around 4 pm Saturday. At 11 am Saturday the reindeer were up to their knees in snow. At 5, it was up to their rumps! The plows have not yet made it even to the somewhat major street that leads to our subdivision; church is canceled and I imagine the stores are still shut. A good day to get overdue Christmas cards done, yes? Though I am beginning to think I should just make New Year cards instead-- then it will look like I PLANNED to be late!

In honor of the snow-- another snowman card! This one is from Tracy. Wasn't this a good swap, I loved both Heidi's and Tracy's cards. My kids think this one is adorable--love that little snowman! He is from Punch Pals.

I'm back!!

2009-12-19T08:04:00.000-08:00

I do apologize for not posting regularly!! My excuse is, of course, going back to work. I have been exhausted and boy do I have new respect for moms who work full-time and still manage everything. Grades were due this week for the all-year classes and being in the "taking over at the end of the grading period" situation, there was a lot of paper to check and grade and enter but it is done!! And with 12 inches of snow on the ground and more falling (we may get 24"!!!), it looks like school will be out Monday and Tuesday.

Here is the gorgeous Christmas card I spoke about maybe 2 weeks ago (Heidi is so organized that hers was the first card I received). I love Gifts of Christmas and I think she did a beautiful job!

Heidi's Thank You

2009-12-07T02:57:00.001-08:00

This week I will start by sharing Heidi's and Tracy's cards for our swap. Both chose snowmen. Heidi's choice was Frosty, a set I have always regretted not purchasing. I'm going to have to borrow hers after seeing this card!

2009-12-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post this yesterday! I get emails from a demo named Gretchen Barron. She takes as much care with the inside of her cards as the card itself. She has inspired me to start doing a little more with the inside of my cards. This is the inside of the Snowflake Thank You posted yesterday. I used the 1/16th inch circle punch to make the circle scallops match.

Here's today's card, and the last of the thank you's I made for the swap with Heidi and Tracy. Again, designer paper for a colorful background, then some felt flurries and bling to top it off. What makes this card, though, is the Lace Edge punch.

another Thank You

2009-12-04T13:32:00.000-08:00

Here's another Thank You. I know I saw this general idea-- using designer paper with a ribbon bow-- on Splitcoast, but I'm not sure who did it first. Cards like this are EXACTLY the reason I bought the "thank you" Sizzlit for my Big Shot-- I think this looks great (so modest, yes?). Have a WONDERFUL Friday and keep your fingers crossed-- we might get some snow Saturday!

Thank you cards

2009-12-03T10:49:00.001-08:00

One great way to keep your stamping going is to join a swap or organize one informally. Heidi, Tracy, and I decided to make thank you cards so that one more Christmas "to do" would be off our lists. We decided each of us would make 12 cards and divide them amongst the three of us. I actually made 3 designs of 12 cards each because I forgot to check my supplies before starting! I'll show them all to you over the next few days, plus I will post Tracy's and Heidi's after I get them. Here's the first, inspired by a Gretchen Barron creation. I do love these colors together!

Petra's Christmas card

2009-12-01T12:04:00.000-08:00

Petra came over on Black Friday-- while the kids visited, she and I stamped! She finalized the design for her Christmas card, while I did "thank you's" for a swap I am in -- I'll post those later in the week. Forgive the short posts, I am getting used to my work schedule and getting up earlier than usual.

Petra chose Not Quite Navy, Whisper White, and Brushed Silver. She was inspired by a card on SCS. The tree is from Lovely as a Tree and the sentiment from Season of Joy. Heat and Stick powder holds the Dazzling Diamonds on the image. Isn't this pretty?

Molly's thank you's

2009-11-30T05:11:00.000-08:00

Molly decided to use some of the Thanksgiving break getting ready for Christmas. She always stamps some thank you's to send for the gifts sent by our families. She's all ready to go! These were 100% her own work, color choices, and design, even to choosing to stamp the flower in a darker hue than the paper. I do like sharing crafting time with her, now I just have to get her to the point where she automatically cleans up after herself!

Glass Blocks

2009-11-28T15:44:00.000-08:00

I'm still having issues with the photo editing package (sigh) but Byron says he'll have some time later tonight to help. I think I had better write down the instructions this time! So I surfed through my files and found this Glass Block photo (hmmm...I still have some of these downstairs......hmmmmm). This one does not have microbeads attached, as requested by the person for whom I did it. The one below does. I love microbeads, they diffuse the light and make the block sparkly.

Mary's casserole

Every holiday I make Mary's casserole with the leftover turkey (it is equally delicious with shredded chicken). Mary made this for us when Molly was born-- I think Byron and I ate the whole pan in 2 days! It was that yummy. If you need something new to try with your Turkey day leftovers, I highly recommend this.

1 box Stove Top Cornbread stuffing
5 tbsp melted butter
8 oz sour cream (light or fat free is fine)
1 can Cram of Chicken soup (I use 98% fat free)
1.5 cups chicken broth
4-5 shredded chicken breasts or same amount of leftover turkey

Mix the stuffing and the butter. Spray 13 X 9 pan with cooking spray and put 1/3 of the stuffing in pan. Top with shredded meat ( I just shredded turkey by hand until I had a nice thick layer, I didn't measure). Mix the sour cream and soup together, spread on top of meat. Sprinkle remaining stuffing mix on top and drizzle the chicken broth over all. Bake uncovered 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until bubbly. Delish!

Christmas is coming.......

2009-11-27T18:57:00.000-08:00

Come on, now, confess-- how many of you automatically sang along with "the goose is getting fat, please put a penny in the poor man's hat!". Ohh--just me? Blame it on my mother, who hails from England. I never hear that phrase without a snippet of the song running through my brain!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and snagged some Black Friday deals! Molly and I went out around 11 and were amazed at the lack of crowds. Not much on either of our shopping lists. My big-hearted daughter scooped 2 tags off the Angel Tree; she's using her cat-sitting money to buy presents for a 6-yr old girl and 9-yr old boy. Then we dropped by the music store to pick up Russell's drum set. They actually called Tuesday to let me know it was in and (bad parent!!) I just couldn't face it, I left it until today. He's thrilled and I am ready to buy the rubber pads that fit on top to save my sanity.

I have a ton of new pictures (which I will whittle down to 6 or so) but the photo editing package is not cooperating, so here is one my 2008 Club ladies (I miss you!) will recognize. This was inspired by Master Brayer Artist Michele Zindorf. We took the easy way out and sponged our dawn sky-- I did try several times to get the same amazing effects she does, without success, so out came the sponges.

Noah is in heaven now

2009-11-23T17:58:00.000-08:00

One of my kids today drove me to the wall. Attitude, mouth, disrespectful, ungrateful, you name it. I wasn't exactly nice when dealing with it, even if I did keep it together. Then tonight, sitting here totally frustrated, I got a reality check. I wrote earlier about a little boy named Noah, dying of Neuroblastoma. I'm sorry to tell you Noah died this morning.

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/21522646/detail.html

If you sent a card, or said a prayer, thank you.

My friend Kathy told me today of another child here in Stafford suffering from the same thing. Check out Carter's Crusaders at www.carterharris.blogspot.com and please keep Carter in your prayers.

Suddenly, I'm very thankful all my child suffers from is ADHD and a big mouth.

Back in business!

2009-11-21T18:09:00.000-08:00

Byron installed Windows 7 and it did something screwy to my photo editing program, so he pulled up a different one. I of course moaned about it and wanted the old one back! But I am thankful he patiently tutored me through this new one despite my complaints, because now I can post again.

This is the punch art pumpkin card Russell's class made on Friday. Russell's teacher wanted the kids to write a thank you note for something they were really thankful for, so I volunteered to come in and show how to do some easy cards. We had a ball and yes I let them use my punches, and even my Big Shot! They could choose a turkey or a pumpkin, and if they finished the first one they chose, could do the other. I had an assortment of designer papers pre-cut for them to choose from (cleaning out my stash!). The pumpkins are ovals, the bottom two placed side by side, almost overlapping. The top one has a Word Window punch stem and curled vine (thin strips of Garden Green wrapped around a bamboo skewer to curl it) glued to the back, then is placed over the overlapped two with a dimensional. When we did these in class last year, we sponged the edges with ink for more dimension. I did THINK about doing that with the kids, but quickly decided we might have pumpkin-hued kids if I did, so I let them loose on the punches instead.

The turkey card was a bit trickier but still fun. I did instruction sheets for the kids for both cards-- I'm such a visual person!

The punches used:
1-3/4" circle, 1 " circle
Spring Bouquet flower punch for the feet (now retired)
small oval punch

Here's how the body goes together. Adhere everything to the back, then flip when done.

The wattles I pre-punched. Punch a scallop circle with the Scallop Circle Punch. Of course, you're flipping the punch to see what you are punching, yes? Now insert just the edge of the scalloped circle back into the punch and punch a squiggly wattle. That is glued onto the back of the 1" circle. Flip that over, attach googlie eyes (these should have been just a bit bigger but these were what I had) and a hand-cut orange triangle for a beak. Pop the head onto the body with a dimensional, and your turkey is done!

Finally, another comment on cellophane bags. I NEVER run out of these. These gusseted ones I bought from Gina when she ordered a bunch last Christmas to wrap loaves of bread-- SU! no longer carries gusseted ones. Monday was my once a month "play day" and I sat and measured, cut, and put together templates for cocoa holders and candy holders-- I had seen some on a blog and was determined to do something like that, they were just amazing. With all that went on this week, Thursday evening came and I still hadn't done the goodie bags for Molly's church retreat leaders. Down to the basement I go. I packaged gourmet cocoa packets into a clear envelope and stamped a topper. Chocolates got tossed into another cello bag, tied with brown ribbon. Put those in the gusseted bags with packs of nuts, peanut butter crackers, Kashi bars, chocolate-dipped mint sticks. Tied up the bags with Chocolate chip Satin ribbon and wearily made my way upstairs to bed. The next morning I kept looking at the bags, wondering what I had forgotten. UH-- SOMETHING STAMPED!! I ran back down to the basement in between feeding the kids breakfast and quickly made Post-it Note books (these are so easy and quick!) and matching RSVP pens, opened the bags back up and threw it all in. Done!! Molly comes home tonight; I know she will have enjoyed herself thoroughly and I hope she will have grown a bit spiritually.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained*

2009-11-21T07:30:00.000-08:00

I DO have some photos to post but I am having computer issues!! It is beginning to sound like those Windows/Mac ads around here, and I hope it will be resolved in time to show you some cute turkey and pumpkin Thank You cards Russell's class made yesterday.

The week became unexpectedly busy and not much else got done! A little background here-- long before I got my library degree, I fell in love with French and pursued it as far as a Masters (and 2 years in France!). Taught briefly at a private high school and a junior college, and had to admit to my mother that yes, I should have listened to her about becoming a teacher. Much more recently, I've had to do it again, as I started substitute- teaching for the kids' schools last year and truly enjoyed the whole experience.

I had called the high school up the road on Monday because I noticed there was an opening for a French teacher. I left my name and number with a note that I could sub long-term in French if they had trouble filling the position. The person I spoke to was not encouraging at all (they were already interviewing candidates) and I thought, "Eh bien, qui ne risque rien, n'a rien*." Much to my surprise, Monday afternoon they called and asked me to interview! The madness began. I had earphones on most of the next day, listening to Byron's old French tapes, as well as a quick dash to Potomac Mills for something to interview in. As nervous as I was, I had fun at the interview, too, because I spent 2 blocks in the classroom interacting with the kids. When I was in high school I could barely answer a rote question in French. Not these kids! Class was in French, some even managed their questions about the assignment in French, and they obviously felt comfortable with it and their teacher. The teacher who is leaving (hubby got a new job) has really set the bar high. I left yes, wanting them to call and offer the position, but trying to be realistic about my chances. Luckily, there was a lot to distract me: Russell's parent-teacher conference, Molly's guitar lesson, TNT meeting Thurs, Russell got an award at school, touched base with Petra right after, ran to commissary, and Thursday night not only got Molly ready for the big Ocean City retreat but prepped supplies for Russell's class to make cards and made goodie bags for Molly's leaders. Had to get all that done because Friday I ran around looking for a purse for Molly before volunteering in Russell's class at 11 and actually subbing in 5th grade that afternoon!

My cell phone was in my pocket but I had no reception, even on the playground. I could see that a Stafford County Schools number had called, but couldn't access the message. It was not until 4:05 that afternoon that I listened to the message offering me the position! Yipppeee!!!

This will be quite a change for the family (no Mom at their beck and call) but I think it will be crazy but good. I am so excited!!

Update on Noah

2009-11-14T16:02:00.000-08:00

The family has been overwhelmed with cards and gifts. Unfortunately, Noah is too ill to know they are still arriving, and the family requests only prayers now. Here is the posted update from his care page:

Wow!! Thanks! Please STOP!!!!

Posted 21 hours ago
Wow! The outpouring of love and concern for Noah is just amazing! Scott and I never in a million years thought that so many people would want to send Christmas cards to Noah. However, please note: We did already celebrate Christmas LAST Sunday -- November 8th.
PLEASE STOP SENDING CARDS AND GIFTS!!!!
Noah is very ill. He is not getting out of bed and it's time for Scott, our families, and I to concentrate on our son. His time is very short and he needs us.
Scott and I would like to say thank you so much for the support and continued show of love. However, we are asking that everyone please stop sending cards and gifts.
Also, everyone please post the stop order on Facebook and any other websites or organizations that you belong to. We need the peace right now.
Thank you for your understanding in this request.

Please keep the family in your prayers.

julia

Can't stop painting pumpkins!

2009-11-10T17:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day! I hope you are enjoying the holiday (it felt so good to sleep a little longer today). I really enjoyed the Veteran's Appreciation program at Russell's school yesterday. Pastries were served in the library before the whole school gathered at the flagpole to honor the veterans with patriotic songs and their service hymns. Byron was able to attend, in uniform. He then went to Molly's school-- they honored veterans at lunch. It doesn't always work out that he can participate when the schools do something; I am so glad he was yesterday. Take a moment today to offer a prayer of thanks for our veterans, and even better-- thank one for his or her service.

It's true, I am addicted to watercolor paper and the lovely pumpkins in Harvest Home. This time, after a base of More Mustard, I striped them in Only Orange and Pumpkin Pie. I love it when the colors are vibrant like this. And as Petra pointed out when she chose the colors for the card base, sedate background colors keep the focus on the watercolored image instead of what is going on around it. She ran by to drop off some things and I dragged her downstairs to help me chose--- then argued with her about her choices!! In the end I admitted she was right (boy was SHE surprised!) and even sent her one as a thank you. She painted the fire-tipped leaves for me as we talked, aren't they lovely? If I had time I would make a card with only those leaves! Assuming, that is, that she would paint them for me-- mine came out a bit muddy.

The finished card:
CS: Chocolate Chip, Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Watercolor paper
Embellishments: Baja Breeze Striped Grosgrain, brads, Petra's leaves

I forgot to take a picture of the inside. I mounted a 5 1/8" X 3 7/8" piece of Very Vanilla sponged with Baja Breeze. On it I stamped the sentiment from Harvest Home:
Season of Thanks
Season of Blessings
Season of Love

On most of the cards ( I sent 12!! my mail lady loves me, she says I'm keeping her employed) I wrote: "Enjoy the season!"

Have a wonderful day!

Thanks, Mitzi!

2009-11-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

I cam home today to find the cutest thing on my door! Mitzi called and said she was leaving a late Halloween treat and I was mystified as to what it could be. It was TANG!! Boy that takes me back years, I think I was 11 the last time I had Tang. So you are only seeing the adorable topper for her "Spooky Brew" because Byron and I promptly mixed and enjoyed some Tang! We had to use a spoon to mix it though, because Russell grabbed the licorice stirrer and munched away. What a great idea for Halloween. Thanks so much, Mitzi!

A card for Noah

2009-11-07T19:02:00.000-08:00

Today I read on SCS about Noah, a little boy dying of cancer. Noah was diagnosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma in February 2007. He went into remission in August 2007. In September 2008, Noah relapsed with lesions in his right arm and right leg. After going through six different trials, the cancer continues to spread.

Sadly, Noah will not make it to Christmas. The Biorkman family has decided to celebrate early with him. Friends and civic groups in Detroit are pitching in to help (Santa will come by, courtesy of the fire department). And cardmakers are asked to help out, too, by sending a card.

Please help the fulfill the Biorkman family's wish to make this the best Christmas ever for Noah.

You can send your Christmas cards to:

Noah Biorkman
1141 Fountian View Circle
South Lyon,Mi 48178

Snopes:
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/medical/biorkman.asp

Detroit news video:
http://www.clickondetroit.com/video/21525126/index.html.

Obviously, time is of the essence, so I dug into my stash of cards instead of stamping a new card. This was my Christmas card 3 years ago. I hope Noah likes it.

Card details:
Stamp City of David in Staz On on a precut circle. Color as desired. Cover the entire circle with Versamark ink and emboss with a mixture of clear embossing powder and Dazzling Diamonds (this is called Faux Diamond Dust, and really makes cards pop!). The top of the ornament is a scrap of Brushed Gold cut with specialty scissors (now I would just use our Scalloped Edge punch) and you can use anything that works for the branches (this is the large single tree from Lovely as a Tree). Someone on SCS was the first to do this and I fell in love with it-- I wish I had written down who, so I could give credit.

Happy November

2009-11-02T05:54:00.001-08:00

Say it with me....November already!! Keeping this blog not only lets me anticipate things to come, but reflect back on what was going on only a few short months ago. It seems as though it has been ages since I scooped up back-to-school ice cream sundaes in the driveway, but it was only 2 months ago. Wow. In one short month I will be struggling with what to write for our Christmas letter (I never know what to leave out and what to keep in-- a lot of joy in our life, but a lot of distressing moments, too). Anyway, that is NEXT month's issue!

For today's post I am again featuring a card from last year-- this was a "card front" swap I did for my upline's meeting to show that yes, I could do simple, LOL! Ok, the oval is a frame, and yes the Always Artichoke is stamped with Chocolate Chip-inked Canvas, and yes, I cut out leaves, but come on-- don't you think this is simple?

Off now to very, very slowly clean the house. I woke up today feeling blessedly normal, but I'm determined not to push it. I don't want another couple of days on the couch feeling miserable.

Stay healthy!

julia

Oink! Oink!

2009-10-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

One final Halloween card! This is a holdover from last year because I loved it so much I wanted to keep an example. NOTHING got done this week-- I'll bet you guessed why from the title of the post! Yep, the dreaded flu hit Wednesday and I am just now surfacing on Friday night. Bless my husband (did everything for the kids, and hit the commissary too) and Giant's Bakery Dept (I thought it was much safer to get them to make the cookies I committed for Russell's school party). One quick trip out to get those and I was on the couch for the rest of the day. Even the cat avoided me (can cats get swine flu?). Not entirely sure that is what it was, I didn't go the doctor-- I guess I will know for sure if it returns, worse, in a day or two as it did for my friend Lori (who didn't get BOO-ed because I was in bed! Sorry, Lori!).

Have a safe, HEALTHY Halloween!!

julia

More Halloween cards-- Booglie Eyes!

2009-10-21T11:49:00.001-07:00

I'm having such fun with this set!! I stamped these, colored, cut them out (thank goodness Tracy gave me the really sharp SU! snips as a gift one year--lots of little angles!, added googlie eyes, and popped them up with dimensionals. These are already in the mail on the way to family and friends. Next week-- Halloween treats for teachers, bus drivers, and some special "Boo!" bags. Have a great weekend!

julia

2009-10-21T11:40:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween pencils (and erasers, and decorations.....) Every year I make pencil toppers using Batty for You, circle punches, and the Scallop Circle punch. After noticing one the kids in Russell's class last year had used a stapler to put his back together again, I experimented on how best to keep the topper on the pencil: dimensionals (NO), glue pen (NO), sticky strip (NO), double-sided tape (NO), hot glue gun (NO). The inevitable champ? a slit in the bottom circle scallop to thread the pencil through, and CRYSTAL EFFECTS! I laughed to myself-- yet another use for CE! Did I tell you I had to order a separate bottle for Byron to keep in the garage? He stole-- sorry, USED-- mine one too many times! I'll take these in on Thursday morning for Russell's class.

Say Thank You to your Bus Driver!

2009-10-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

Wednesday is National Bus Driver Appreciation Day! I was called at the last minute to sub today (yea!! and it was a great day, the kids were really good and sometimes too funny) so with that, homework, and drum lessons, I did not have a lot of time to play. I quickly threw dinner on the table and ran to Target for some chocolate. I love wrapping chocolate bars as a small treat-- it is very easy to do and looks super when you tie a bow of wide ribbon on it. The tag I made with my Big Shot and some off-center nesties, and by now, everyone recognizes my "thank you' Sizzlit! Viola! The sheath is slipped off and you can even reuse it (just buy a new chocolate bar and change the tag). Russell will give it to Miss Vickie tomorrow.

If you haven't had time to whip up anything for your bus driver, take heart-- this entire week is Bus Driver Appreciation Week, you still have time!

julia

Getting ready for Halloween!

2009-10-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

My friend Tracy came to stamp today and we both worked on Halloween cards in between catching up on everything that is going on each other's family and some mutual friends. I thought her card was adorable, and she was nice enough to leave one for me (I'll post my cards over the next few days). I love both the Booglie Eyes set (now retired unfortunately) and Batty for You (still current).

Staff Appreciation at church

2009-10-18T10:13:00.001-07:00

October is Church Staff Appreciation Month! At times like these I am so glad I am a crafter, because there is no way I could buy gift cards for all the people at church I need to thank for their efforts with my children. Even if my kids were little angels, a thank you would be in order. As they are NOT, I start planning for October in August! Notice I said planning because execution usually is the night before. This year, 1/2 was done in advance (progress!) and 1/2 on Saturday.

Recognize the mini composition notebooks and jumbo paperclip bookmarks? We saved them for this, paired with some Hershey's Bliss chocolates and packaged in a cello bag with a cardstock topper. I LOVE cello bags, they make packaging a breeze! My Sizzlits "thank you" was perfect for this. I no longer put the Big Shot away, it stays on the side table, because it truly makes crafting easier. These 5 went to Molly's middle school Sunday School teachers.

Russell has 2 Sunday School teachers this year and I am always amazed at how cheerful and loving these ladies are, despite the uproar of a HUGE class of 4th graders all eager to contribute, talk, play games, talk, hunt for Bible verses, TALK! I help out once a month and it never fails: Miss Amy and Miss Melinda are smiling when the kids arrive and smiling when they leave (no small feat, that). For them, and Miss Shari, the Children's Ministries Director, post-it note books bound with the BIA. In the middle of the flower embellishment is a circle that reads, "In everything, give thanks- 1 Thess. 5:18" which I thought so appropriate! That's from Happy Harmony, a SAB set from a few years ago that I hung on to. I painted a clear round button with Crystal Effects and put it directly over the saying-- it really pops in real life. Each bag also has a RSVP pen (with coordinating paper in the barrel) and what else? Hershey's Bliss Chocolates (thankfully, the last ones in the house, so the diet is safe for another day). The tag is from God's Blessings: Blessings brighten when we count them. Thank you for blessing my life in such a wonderful way!

Did you know tomorrow is National Bus Driver Appreciation Day? I forgot too! We just have one bus driver year, and Russell is not on the bus at all tomorrow, so she'll get her thank you on Tuesday. That gives me time to make something for her.....it is so chilly today that maybe a collection of teas, coffees, and chocolates would be welcome........ I'll post it after I figure out what to do and make it!

Blessings to you!!

julia

Goodie Boxes!

2009-10-04T21:25:00.001-07:00

Molly's middle school is hosting All County Chorus auditions on Tuesday. She really enjoys Chorus-- keep your fingers crossed that she makes it! I'll be there for a shift at the snack bar, and I volunteered to make goodie boxes for the judges. Why? Not quite sure!! The judges do receive a little bit of money for 6+ hours of work. I think I just needed another project. I forgot that October is Staff Appreciation Month at church, plus there are at least 10 Halloween card designs buzzing in my head, not to mention Christmas cards for Operation Quiet Comfort....what's that, honey? the house? Oh, yeah, I'll get to it when I can! LOL!!Anyway, I hope the Chorus teacher -- and judges-- like them!

Each box contains a post-it notebook made with the Bind It All. I LOVE that little gadget! I loaded up on post-it notes when Staples had such a fantastic deal many moons ago (2008?). I'm down to my last few chipboard coasters though. The fall-themed paper for this project came from a big box retailer, because I volunteered to do these only last week-- I didn't have time to order the wonderful Autumn paper in the mini. Recognize that shiny middle of the flower? That's right, a clear round button! Of course, a matching RSVP pen is in the box too!

Hershey's Bliss chocolates-- light and dark-- are in these sour cream containers. These are soooo easy to make-- I think all 6 took me maybe 10 minutes. I threw those chocolates in there lickety-split-- trying to stay on my diet!

Mitzi gave me these gable boxes a while back-- I've used some for other projects. I was thrilled to see I had 6 left for this! Inside the boxes, wrapped in tissue paper, are the post-it notebook, pen, sour cream container, mini bottle of hand sanitizer, packet of kleenex (it is flu season, after all!) and Tic Tacs.

have a great first full week of October!

julia

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2009-09-24T18:33:00.001-07:00

It is my Dad's birthday this weekend! I bought this set specifically because he is a golfer (maybe a golf addict would be more accurate!) and I loved the sentiment: "Hope your day is par-fect!". This card was cased from one by JanTInk, someone else did the inside as the flag on a golf course but I didn't write down who! I like Joy fold cards because they are different. I had to hold it shut to photograph it (notice how the chocolate chip frames the main element). I sponged the sky and grass but so ineptly that I had to throw my first attempt away and start over. This time I stamped my golfer on a separate piece of paper, colored him, cut him out, and pasted him on the (now nicely sponged) grass. Some days are just like that! I was pretty happy with this in the end, and I hope he is, too.

More Operation Quiet Comfort cards

2009-09-22T09:39:00.001-07:00

I did it! I have 24 cards ready to send out for Operation Quiet Comfort. Here are my last 3 cards, all cased from SCS.

Operation Quiet Comfort-- Can you help?

2009-09-18T10:58:00.000-07:00

When surfing a favorite site for inspiration, I saw a card request that resonated with me. Many of you know I like to send cards to organizations that distribute them to deployed military members (many of you have contributed cards to send with mine--thanks!). This request, however, was for the medical teams that wait to perform surgery and care for our wounded heroes.

This struck my heart like a blow. I do not know why. Maybe because I still remember the fear that gripped me when Byron fell off the roof-- and he was only 40 miles away for treatment.

The doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and orderlies that treat these heroes are not on the front lines per se, but think for a minute of the stress of trying to save the lives of the fallen-- and worse, the despair when all efforts fail.

Operation Quiet Comfort, in addition to putting cards with messages in transition bags, is also soliciting cards to distribute to medical teams; a small thank you for all they do.

My first 12 are ready to go (4 of each design I'm showing today). If you would like to send some too, all the info is below. Please-- the note about no glitter is a must, you know how that stuff spreads and breeds-- the cards are going to hospitals so NO GLITTER. If you are in the Stafford area, I will gladly include yours in mine-- my first package will be sent Tuesday Sept 22 (I hope to have 24 done by then).

Operation:Quiet Comfort www.operationquietcomfort.com

Cards for the Troops

Store bought and handmade cards are needed to include in our GO Bags (transition kits which are sent to over 60 combat support hospitals). Direct any questions to Diane Schneider (diane52381@nc.rr.com)

Types of cards: patriotic, thank you, thinking of you or just a cheerful hello from children and adults

Size: approx.4x5 – cards must fit into a quart size baggie

NO ENVELOPES
NO GLITTER

Blank cards will be sent to an OQC member to fill with a heartfelt message. However, we really need cards that are signed with a personal message. Begin with “Dear hero,” or a simple hello greeting. This can be used for any military branch. The messages can be long or short, simple or complex. A simple “Thank you for your service” or just write from your heart.
I’ll also accept messages written on 4x5 sheets of paper. I’ll attach to blank cards.

Cards are always needed, in any amount, from children and adults.

Sign the card with your name (First name only is fine) and city/state to show support comes from all over the U.S. Mail to:

Diane Schneider - OQC
6305 Cape Charles Drive
Raleigh, NC 27617

Include a slip of paper with your email address so receipt can be confirmed. Acknowledgements will also be posted on the OQC Yahoo group site.
**************

Wednesday I ignored all the housework and watercolored away. I am so happy I found my watercolor paper, it truly makes for a good experience! Above is my first attempt this season with Autumn Harvest. Stamp with Staz-On and gently add color a bit at a time. You may not be able to tell, but I lightly colored these pumpkins with watered-down More Mustard ink before painting them with both Pumpkin Pie and Only Orange-- there'e even a little Really Rust in there! Old Olive and Pumpkin make the leaves glow a little (they really pop in real life!).

Harvest Home is such a pretty set (are you really surprised to learn that I own all 3 of the stamps featured on page 26 of the catty? Nope, didn't think so!). Again, I stamped with Staz-On then went to town! I love crisp autumn days when the sky is so blue it almost hurts your eyes. Here, I added water to Tempting Turquoise and gently added about 5 coats to get the effect I wanted (yes I waited for each to dry just a little before going on). The leaf is colored with Really Rust, Old Olive, and a touch of Dusty Durango-- I wanted it to look like it would crack and fall apart. Here's a close-up of the image. Love these colors-- I am definitely an Earth Elements fan, all my favorite colors are in there!

Finally, below is a simpler version of the easy cards I made the other day. I love using that swirl (from Season of Joy)to suggest the wind.

Take a minute today to count your blessings!

julia

Fall cards

2009-09-16T07:09:00.001-07:00

I stamped 6 easy cards last night! I left my long-suffering hubby to deal with getting the kids to bed (after I checked backpacks, etc) and stamped away. These were to be for a very important "card mission" (I'll tell you about that in a post later this week) but when I re-read the instructions I found I had ignored some size restrictions!! So these can be used for something else, and I will spend the afternoon recreating similar ones sized correctly.

I hated that Seasonal Whimsy retired! I love fall images as you know, and anything with leaves. Another loss for me was when the Spectrum pad retired-- fortunately all the colors in it are still current, so I re-inked them!

I was inspired by-- where else?-- my favorite stamping site for this design, which I first made with Petra last year for thank you cards for our Staff Appreciation committee members. We had to make over 24 that time, so only did the swirls to suggest the wind, and did not add the cut-out leaves for those. This time though I wanted to add the leaves, and a stronger contrast by using Old Olive for a mat (the originals were a bit monochromatic, with Really Rust and More Mustard mats).
On this one I used the Swirl from Season of Joy and tried to postion stamped leaves to suggest the wind was making them dance. OK, maybe too poetic a description, and I hope the result is not too busy. I do love the colors, and one of my favorite fall moments is to see a cluster of leaves suddenly swept up into a whirlwind.

Looking at these pictures-- taken on the floor of the family room-- I think it is time to write MAKE A LIGHT BOX on my to-do list so I don't keep taking close-ups of the family room carpet!

Have a great Wednesday!

Cards!

2009-09-10T17:54:00.000-07:00

I love getting cards! The top one arrived courtesy of Angie, a friend and inspired stamper who moved to Louisiana. She's bright and bubbly and has a knack for cheering people-- I miss seeing her and getting together to stamp! I loved this card when I saw it on her blog and am thrilled she sent it to me. Thanks, Angie!

I'm cheating-- this one is really not for me! Petra came over for a bit to work on birthday invites for her son Erik's party, and hand-delivered Russell's invite. Russell agreed to let me have this just long enough to photograph it and post it. Petra's inspiration came from our favorite stamping site, originally designed by craftcrazy98 (just search by "lego" and you will find it). I'm going to make Erik a Lego-themed gift card holder (yes, I wimped out on choosing a gift-- I love gift cards!!).

I'm itching to hide in the basement and make cards, but instead I am cataloging all my stamp sets and making an index for them. I recently asked my friend Heidi if by chance she had a BBQ stamp. She consulted an index in a binder, and within a minute handed me her stamp set. Wow, that was impressive! She dropped by Wednesday for a visit and shared her system with me. I pared down my sets last month, and when I finish indexing them, will know exactly what I have AND WHERE-- always assuming, of course, that I put everything back where it is supposed to go!!

Back to School treats

2009-09-08T06:12:00.000-07:00

Back to School! Woo hooo! The kids were excited this morning to head back, even if Molly had butterflies in her tummy! Russell has one of these tucked into his backpack for his teacher, and handed another to the bus driver when he got on. It is the bag in a box that we learned how to make in class last Christmas. I love this because it lets you use up remnants of designer paper (you only need 5.5" X 11" for this size, and can adjust size as needed). This paper was stuck in a drawer in the craft room, I found it when we moved. It coordinates beautifully with Pumpkin Pie ribbon and Bravo Burgundy cardstock. "Enjoy" comes from Lovely Labels, one of those stamp sets I think I will always hold on to! Inside is 1/2 a bag of Hershey Toffee and Almond Chip Nuggets. I deliberately did not buy those until yesterday, as they are my favorite! Today will be taken up with errands and getting some cleaning done. Isn't it funny, I can't wait to clean -- I won't be interrupted every 5 minutes. I might actually get a lot done today! Our neighborhood celebration is Friday-- breakfast at a restaurant. What are you doing to celebrate?

Birthday girl!

2009-09-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

My sister Debbie's birthday is this month. I planned to use Bloomin' Beautiful-- the large image- for her card. I'm not sure what the flower is, but I figured if I colored it in purple, it would remind her of violets or pansies-- both of which she loves, and both of which remind me of her. While surfing my favorite source of inspiration, all plans changed! I followed links from one card in the Bloomin' Beautiful gallery to several others and was just blown away by one card (kharmagirl's). This is almost an exact case, except I think I colored my images with a bit more detail. Can you tell the tips of the petals are outlined with a white signo gel pen? She also wrapped gold cord several times around hers. This photo is not from the best angle-- you can see the edges of the stamped images underneath the mounted ones. Of course, when you use a very dark color for the base, you have to mount light cardstock on the inside for a message. I continued the theme with some Pink Pirouette, edged with the Scallop edge punch, with an inset of Whisper White. I'm itching to get back down in the craft room and do some of these with some orange and golden shades! Can anyone tell me the name of this flower? Leave the answer in a comment and I will send you one of these cards! (I made 2).

Ice Cream Invites!

2009-09-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

At the end of the school year, my friend Lori treated the kids at the bus stop to ice cream cones. I filed the idea away to use here in our new neighborhood. Russell's bus stop is practically in our driveway (very convenient!), plus I ran into a good deal on waffle sundae bowls, so on Tuesday, when school (SCHOOL, GLORIOUS SCHOOL-- imagine the music to Oliver here and then you will NOT be able to get it out of your head, LOL!) starts, I've invited the friends up and down the street to gather for ice cream in the driveway. I couldn't just verbally invite them, now could I? Nooooo! Here's the invite! Very quick and fun, done entirely with punches.

Back to School with Mini Composition Notebooks

2009-08-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

Oh, those glorious words........BACK TO SCHOOL! I'm giddy just thinking about it! Not that I don't love my kids.........but I am SO READY for them to be back in a routine and using their brains again other than looking for ways to annoy each other and ME.

While shopping for school supplies, my eye fell upon these bundled mini composition notebooks from Target (.99 for 2 notebooks). How could I resist? We had done these in a class maybe a year ago, and the jumbo paperclip bookmarks even earlier than that.

First, gather your supplies:

mini composition notebook
2 pieces designer paper, 5 1/2" by 6" each
coordinating cardstock, 2" X 4 1/2"
ribbon, 18" to 24" depending on how big you want to make the bow
jumbo paperclip
supplies to make the paperclip coordinate with the DP-- Big Shot, punches, etc
dimensionals
rhinestone brads, regular brads, as desired
optional: Build a Brad kit

Recognize the paper and ribbon? Yep, Afternoon Tea DP and Groovy Guava ribbon and cardstock. Told you I hoard supplies!

Fold the DP in 1/2 so that the paper measures 5 1/2 by 3 when closed. Slide one side (make sure the side of the paper you don't want to use is facing up) into the front cover of the comp book-- it will go almost the binding. Run adhesive of choice along the edge of the binding and close the paper over the front of the notebook. Use a bone folder to bond the adhesive, cover, and paper together.

Flip the notebook so that you see the inside of the notebook. Press the edges of the paper along the edges of the notebook to create score lines. You may cut these away before adhering the paper to the exposed cover, or just fold them in and use some extra adhesive (smoothed with a bone folder to bond it).
Blurry picture, sorry! Now close the notebook and line the edge of the DP by the binding with Sticky Strip. Do the other side. Do not peel that liner yet! First use the crimper (if desired) on the 2" X 4 1/2" cardstock, and gently make the short edges meet so the cardstock can curl around the binding. No, you still can't peel the liner.
Slide your ribbon into place-- the middle of the ribbon should hug the binding. Open the ribbon back up. NOW you can peel the liner on one side!! Press the ribbon into the sticky stip, and gently curl the crimped cardstock around the binding. Flip and repeat on the other side.
Tie your ribbon into a pretty bow to hold the notebook closed. Yes, it took me a few tries!!
Petra was prepping for a project while I made these, and she suggested this Embosslet would go well with the design on the paper. I agree! I just wish I had eyed that paper a little more carefully-- can you see my mistake? I cut two of these, one for the front and one for the back.
After I added leaves to the flower (that 5 Petal Punch is worth the price just to be able to use it for leaves!), I added a Build A Brad element to the front. Then I placed dimensionals on the INSIDE of the front flower to keep the paper clip in between the two flowers. I stacked them so I wouldn't have to press the flowers too thin, and added some others on the side for stability). A little bit of ribbon knotted on the bookmark completes it.
Finally, slide the bookmark into the ribbon and voila! a neat little BACK TO SCHOOL (I'm singing this-- if only you could hear) gift for a friend, a teacher, the office ladies......
Here's a close up of the one masculine notebook and bookmark. I thought the macho DP deserved a star (OK-- the other side of the DP had a cowboy theme).
As the star has extended points, I felt there was a greater chance of it getting messed up with everyday use, so first I adhered DP to thin cardboard (you get a 12" x 12" piece of this with every packet of designer paper) and punched out two circles for a base. Then I stuck the stars to the circles. The front circle got a Build A Brad.
This little star (flower?) is from Little Pieces, which is now retired. I stamped it, then used the 1/2" circle punch to punch it out.
Use a little bit of adhesive or glue and adhere the punched shape to the brad. Then pop the clear rubber button (how do you describe those things?) over the top for a little bit of shine!

Here's the finished product!
One afternoon chatting with a friend (luckily all the kids got along today!) and yippee! 8 of these ready to go! Let me know what you think, please-- I love comments! If you already made one of these with me, did you give it away or did you keep it? 'Fess up! Does this make you want to head to Target to check out those school supplies? Let me know by leaving a comment before September 4. On that date, I'll put everyone's name in a hat and have one of the kids draw a name. The winner may choose one of these notebooks as a prize! Yes, even you long-distance readers are eligible for this one-- I'll mail it to you. Good luck!

til next time,

when school (SCHOOL, GLORIOUS SCHOOL!!) will be in session---

julia

Swap Cards!

2009-08-21T16:02:00.001-07:00

I absolutely love to swap cards with other stampers! I get into ruts sometimes with my stamping, and swapping cards is a good way to shake everything up. The details, color choices, composition.....I pour over all of it, and often incorporate something I noticed or learned into my next projects. And nothing beats having a stack of cards ready to go! My fellow swappers graciously agreed to let me post their cards here-- thanks, everyone!

Tracy's card

Sharon's card

Petra's card

Nancy's card

Lori's card

Kathy's card

Donna's card

Audrey's card-- can you see the embossed background?

Stamps for sale!

2009-08-19T17:03:00.001-07:00

Stamps for sale: I have tried to really pare the amount of stamps I am keeping (though I do not know if I will be able to EVER part with some favorites). I'm trying to avoid eBay, so let me know if there is something on the list that interests you. I'll do this sale for one week, then head to the 'Bay.

FOR SALE
All I have seen used 5.00
Amazing to zany New, unmounted 20.00
Be happy used 8.00
Big blossom stained 3.00
Calendar Cues new, unmounted 5.00

Carte postale some staining 15.00
Give thanks used 8.00

Greetings Galore, used 8.00

Hung Up on the Holidays used 4.00

Little pieces, only 2 mounted 5.00
Looks like spring used 10.00

Make it count used 5.00
On gossamer wings 12.00
Perfect presentation only some mounted 12.00

Season by Season mounted but not inked 5.00

Small Script used 3.00

So Many Sayings only one used 8.00
Wild rose used 12.00

Wonderful Words used 10.00

Yummy new unmounted 6.00

HOUSE MOUSE-- very clean—I didn’t use most of these!
Making a snowmouse 1997 7.00
Marshmallow Bounce 8.00
Pogo Stamp Limited Edition #3840 8.00
Sitting on a branch 1997 8.00
Sleeping with strawberries 1998 5.00
Stamp a kiss limited edition #3793 10.00
Squeaky clean 1999 8.00
Wrapped and Ready 1998 7.00

Coronado Island Stamp

Jungle Tiger 8.00

Misc Stamps

Tiger Eyes 8.00

Tiger face (small) 4.00

Flower pot change of address cards

2009-08-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

Last night some friends came to craft. It was great to have some time with them! I worked on my change of address cards. I had one all planned out that used Heart and Home in red and black. Then I surfed SCS for a little while in the afternoon and saw the flower pot card-- I loved it. I have done these once before, for thank you cards. I still had some of the So Saffron grosgrain from SAB-- that is the prettiest ribbon. I used the Big Shot first for Daisies but they didn't look exactly right --one size was too big, one was too small. The Flower Burst embosslit looked better. I wanted dimension so I sponged the white flowers with So Saffron and the So Saffron flowers with Pumpkin Pie. The leaves behind them are punched with the 5 Petal Punch with my last sheet of Wild Wasabi. The tag is punched (and printed, because I didn't have a stamp that says "we've moved") and the info is printed as well (covered up of course because ANYONE can see it on the web!). Now I can address envelopes and send these out, hoping the people will realize they have to pull the flowers up to reveal the card with our new address!!

I'm back!!

2009-08-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know, pick your jaws up off the floor. It has been a VERY long time since I posted. I'm happy to report that we are almost 100% moved into the new house and loving being here. The kids are having a blast in the pool, and getting to know the new neighbors while having plenty of visits from friends from the old neighborhood. Best of all-- BYRON HAS FINISHED HIS MASTERS!! Wooo hooo! I am so proud of him, and so so glad that life can get back to some semblance of normal. In fact, he is responsible for the this blog entry---after church he took the kids to see Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs so I could stamp. Then, he took them outside to ride bikes before dinner-- and after dinner, watched them outside again so I could finish up my cards. It felt so good to have some time to myself again.

My first order from the new catalog arrived during the week (aren't you amazed I was able to wait until August? I know I was!) and included the "Many Thanks" sizzlit. My list changed many times, but that item always stayed on there. I have to tell you that I was a little apprehensive about the size, and whether I would have a problem getting the letters to "release" cleanly (sometimes that is a problem with the leaf one). For this project, I used Bella Rose DP and the letters popped out easily. This is the other side of the paper I chose to use with the Big Shot Top Notes die.

Are you wondering why I chose the Bella Rose DP-- after all, it is retired! I had to. No, not another example of using up my hoard (although I do need to do that). When the move was mostly done and I could start organizing my craft room, I used up all my 48 regular colors reinkers to reink my pads. They needed it, but it also meant I could throw away some boxes and save some space. This technique, however, needs reinkers! And the only ones I had left were the In Colors. So I dug into containers for first the DP, then coordinating colors: Kiwi Kiss, Riding Hood Red, Pink Pirouette.

First, emboss a line image with white or clear embossing powder. I prefer white because there is more definition. After it cools, squeeze a drop or two of reinker onto a plastic lid. Spritz your embossed image with water-- not a little , A LOT. Then use an Aqua Painter to pick up some reinker and touch it to the water. The color stays in the "well" created by the embossing, and the paper sucks it up. Let dry, then spritz again and use the deeper color for a contrast. You do have to let this dry thoroughly (overnight should do it) before attaching it to a card, and voice of experience-- use more color than you think you will need, because for me, this time at least, the roses faded a bit. I am still very pleased with it though!

Another hint-- emboss the images on separate pieces of paper. I ruined an entire sheet trying to put nine on one page. Plus-- cut them out after you color them. Much easier to see what you are cutting that way!

The finished card! I used the large swirl from Baroque Motifs in Kiwi Kiss on the Kiwi Kiss layer because it needed something. Then I stamped the swirl in Riding Hood Red on the inside corners of the card, and the envelope, and finally I was happy with it.

Bunny Treat Holder

2009-03-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm getting ready for Easter a little early this year. I saw this Top Note treat holder on Angie Juda's blog around Christmas time and it popped up all over SCS. Then Jackie Topa shared a picture of her punched bunny -- I knew the two would go great together! Even better was discovering that three Ghirardelli Chocolates fit in here nicely. Love those chocolates, and had a bag just sitting downstairs waiting to be used. My bunny is a little different than Jackie's (because I used a smaller punch), but still cute. He's grasping a large egg punched from Raspberry Tart designer paper (I'm still in love with that paper!). I chose to use a smaller oval punch for the handle, then fiddled with almost every other punch I have until I found what looked right to pop out the "happy easter." The flowers and sentiment are from A Good Egg, and yes, I plan on playing with that again as soon as I get some time-- I'll post them when I do them!

And the winner is........

2009-03-06T16:20:00.000-08:00

TRACY! Congratulations, Tracy, Bitty Basics is yours. Thanks to everyone who entered!

More Botanical Blooms

2009-03-04T04:46:00.000-08:00

I love this set! (Don't forget, as a SAB set, it is available only with a $50 SU purchase, and only until Mar 31). I had seen some very spring-like cards made with it, so using again some retired DSP (whittling that stash down little by little), and basically the same design as the birthday card we did for the SAB Mystery Hostess, I spent the afternoon stamping with Petra. 8 cards! None exactly the same, but all similar. Ihave to admit, I am starting to really like the Certainly Celery Poly-Twill ribbon, too (also a SAB selection). These 4 are the best ones. 3 are already addressed and stamped, waiting to wing their way to Kentucky to thank my parents and sisters for their birthday gifts. How did you spend your snow day?

I got my wish!

2009-03-02T13:06:00.001-08:00

Boy, did I get it! Most of you know, when the talk would turn to spring, I would shake my head and tell you I just wanted ONE more snow day. Just one! We haven't exactly been blessed with snow this year. Yesterday, though, the flakes started falling and I will bet we have 9' out there! School is out (the kids are thrilled). I should be downstairs stamping but I just want to curl up with a cup of tea, a book, and the view!

Blog Candy!

2009-02-27T11:02:00.000-08:00

Testing, testing....this is only a test.....are you out there? As promised, here is my first blog candy event! Why is this a test? I'm trying to get a good read on how many people actually read my blog, and if the "subscribe by email" function works. This first "candy" give-away is restricted to those in the Stafford area (if you are close enough to come for class, you are eligible to enter). I'll do an non-restricted one in the future. The candy is a new, unmounted set called Bitty Basics. Here's what you have to do to win:

*Leave a comment describing how many of these images you think you could use on one card or scrapping page;
or (for those of you who have had difficulty in leaving comments on the blog)
*Send me an email describing the same.

That's it! I will put the names of all the entrants on slips of paper and have an impartial person (Byron, the kids, my neighbor at the bus stop) draw a winner! Enter by Thursday March 5. I'll announce the winner here on the blog on Friday, March 6. Good luck!

Birthday Time!

2009-02-25T11:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to me! Yes, it is that time again (we won't discuss the number!). Just as at Christmas, one of the things I enjoy most is seeing an envelope addressed to me in the mailbox. Tracy was the first this year (she even beat my mother)-- her Fishy Friends crayon resist card is just too cute, but now Russell is mad at me because I sold that set when it retired. I think I can hook him up with some images, though! Heidi was next, using one of my favorite (retired) SAB sets, Send a Celebration. I laughed at the inside sentiment:

FRIEND. GOOD. -Frankenstein

She knows that is the ONE stamp I like from Smarty Pants!

My annual SAB Birthday Bash was last night and today! It may seem funny that I throw myself a party, but it ensures a delicious dessert ( Pampered Chef's Cappucino Mousse Trifle), and that I have fun stamping with some of my favorite people. What better birthday present could I give myself (besides of course all the dies for the Big Shot that I have so far resisted, LOL!).

Birthday card #1 featured Botanical Blooms, a SAB selection this year. That's Raspberry Tart designer paper adding style to a very easy card. The flowers were colored (Pretty in Pink and Rose Red), then painted with Crystal Effects for that shiny raised effect. This one will go to my mom --she gets all my best efforts. Why? because one year I sent her a card I hadn't stamped. My upline (the incomparable Mary Hall) had sent me a GORGEOUS card, and pressed for time, I used it for Mom's birthday. Oh my heavens, the comments on that card. No, not that I didn't stamp it-- she didn't know! But she has NEVER EVER complimented one of my cards so lavishly. I learned my lesson, but I am still trying to top that beautiful card. One day I will get there!

This is the masculine card, using Crazy for Cupcakes. Simple coloring with an aqua painter, and Dazzling Diamonds to make that frosting full of sparkle. Now that I have this cupcake set, I'm looking longingly at all the others........

See why my BS die collection is growing? This is the fastest card I think I have ever done! The Top Notes die provides an elegant setting for the embossed flowers (the die cuts them too!). I knew I would end up with a leaf die. I don't mind cutting at all--except for leaves and stems. This is so much easier! The sentiment is from Elegant Cheer. Love that font!

Finally, a whimsical dragonfly made from elements in the Pretties Kit: a hatpin, bugle beads, and pearls. The wings are petals from Pick a Petal -- his head and antenna are a rhinestone brad! Bella Toile in Bashful Blue creates an oh-so-soft background for him.

What's that? You'd like to RSVP for next year's bash already? Not a problem, I will put you on the list (LOL).

More Valentines

2009-02-19T06:42:00.000-08:00

Yep, more Valentines! I was laughing at myself, because I had plans to do much more elaborate packaging, but push came to shove and I quickly reached for the cello bags again. The Ghirardellis fit perfectly in the 3 1/2" wide bags. I love those chocolates, and I was sure to fix those first, otherwise the chocolate might have--ahem!--disappeared. I was the lucky recipient of this Valentine's treat! Do you recognize the style? Yes, Audrey again! This little foldover box held the only Valentine chocolate I did receive (Byron was respecting the diet, which is probably a good thing but boy was I glad to have a little something). It held a delicious chocolate graham cracker coated in semi-sweet chocolate and sprinkled with candy cinnamon hearts. I hurried to photograph it so I could eat it! Thanks so much Audrey, I think I'll base my Easter candy treats on this box.

Don't forget my big Birthday Bash next week! Two sessions, Tuesday evening at 7 or Wednesday morning at 9:30. Each $25 purchase (pre s/h, tax, and yes, you can email orders to me and still be eligible) nets you one raffle ticket for the hostess benefits (assumes we reach $150 in sales) and another for door prizes. Normally I ask for birthday cards (it is my birthday, after all!) but this year, with every card with envelope that you bring to send to a deployed service member, you'll get an extra door prize raffle ticket. RSVPs by Sat at 5pm please!

Cello bags to the rescue again!

2009-02-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

I always keep SU!'s cello bags stocked downstairs. This morning is a good example why! Last night, Byron and I took the kids to see Bedtime Stories at the base theatre (great movie! all four of us enjoyed it. Nice to have some family time, too). On the way back, we stopped at Giant to pick up a potted plant as a Valentine's gift for Russell's Sunday School teacher. This morning, I somewhat belatedly remembered that Molly has teachers too! FOUR of them! I guess I should explain that Molly is now in MIDDLE SCHOOL Sunday School, held in the dungeon--I mean basement-- of the Ministry Center. I'm not allowed down there ("MOTH-ER! Some one might SEE you!") so as I have no interaction with the teaching team at all, it is kind of easy to forget about them! I whipped up four candy bags with toppers in maybe 10 minutes. These are the small 3 X 5 cello bags (you can see them on page 157 of the catalog, 50 for $3.95) stuffed with a snack-size Hershey bar, 4 Hershey's miniatures, and 3 Reese's peanut butter cups. Topper is a 3 1/2 X 4 piece of DSP (last year's Dashing, so I used up some more of my hoard! yea!). The heart is from Best Wishes and More, and to be honest, I can't remember which set the sentiment came from! These went together so quickly that I just may do the same for Russell to give his teachers (and the specials teachers, and the nurse, etc) at GES. We like to say thanks! (You have met my kids, right? 'Nuff said!).

2009-02-06T12:33:00.001-08:00

Some friends and I got together to craft yesterday. We had such a good time! I concentrated on Valentines. I love A Happy Heart. It really is very versatile, with whimsical, elegant, and playful stamps all in the same set! I particularly like this dandelion image losing hearts in the wind. I CASE'd the main image for this card from LyndaLee28's on SCS, but added ribbon, a scalloped greeting, and different DSP. Drum roll please-- these are addressed, stamped, and waiting in the mailbox as I type this! Now that I have patted myself on the back, I guess I should confess I was supposed to be scrapbooking yesterday but wasn't organized enough to be ready for it!! My friend Audrey is so creative-- and so generous. She makes and donates gift card holders for our church's Gift Card Ministry-- you buy the card through the church, and a portion of the proceeds benefits the Building Fund. Last week she described a punched flower to me and knew from the befuddled expression on my face that I just wasn't getting it. Last night at class she handed me this gift card holder, with the flower on it. All I could say was "WOW" (followed pretty quickly by, "Can I put that on my blog? LOL!). Most of you have the tool to make this flower in your stamp room right now! To make this flower, Audrey punched 3 Scallop Circles. She then cut every other petal, which makes the petals resemble little hearts (so appropriate for this time of year!), layered them, added smaller punched flower (I'm guessing the Spring Bouquet punch) to the center, anchored with a heart brad. Some green punched hearts serve as leaves. She even made her own strip of DSP by striping the bottom of the tag. Beautiful, Audrey!

Time to USE my stash!

2009-02-01T15:39:00.000-08:00

Confession time! I am such a hoarder. I hoard ribbon. Designer papers. Embellishments. I'm not exactly sure why I carefully tuck away all my treasures....surely I had projects in mind when I bought them? Today, I looked at all the In-Color ribbon-- In-Color 2007-2008, thank you-- and decided it was time for action. This ribbon is too pretty not to use, as is the designer paper (yep, almost 2 full packs of that Afternoon Tea DSP sitting in my stash). Plus, if I don't hurry, my In-Color inkpads will dry out and I won't be able to use this! I desperately need to send some thank yous (you know who you are, and THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR PATIENCE!). I have seen so many simple, elegant cards lately on SCS and some blogs I find myself on. I was inspired! Thinking back, I didn't CASE anyone's cards, but I am pleased with some of these.
Petal Pizzazz, Wild Wasabi paper, Groovy Guava and Soft Sky inks.

Yes, those are the teeny-tiny Ice rhinestone brads as the flower centers.

The "thanks" is from the new set "Thank You Kindly," page 133 in the catalog. I love the font!

Joy Fold cards with Fun and Fast Notes, another set I should use more often.

The butterflies are from Dreams du Jour-- the Afternoon Tea DSP has chocolate butterflies on the paper, I thought this complimented them. The flower is from Wild Roses-- and I managed it without my Stamp-A-Ma-Jig (yea me!) because I couldn't find it (not so yea me).

I stamped this for Byron shortly after the club met last time, and have kept it hidden until now. You'll recognize (of course!) the Top Notes die, cut in half, to serve as a base for the red embossed hearts from A Happy Heart and Best Wishes and More (sentiment: Hugs and Wishes). Have you stamped your Valentine's yet? Better get cracking!

"Thanks for your service"

2009-01-21T06:42:00.000-08:00

One of my resolutions this year was STAMP more and SEND more. A related resolution was to remember service members that are, as our pastor would say, " doing dangerous and difficult jobs in dangerous and difficult places". Addresses of several deployed members were posted on a church bulletin board so I snagged them. Yesterday I finally had a chance to play with The Free and the Brave -- I don't want to tell you how long it has been in my stack of stamps! I kept stamping, changing layouts, and coming upstairs for Byron's opinion (I'm sure he enjoyed that-- he was trying to study!). His opinion is valuable to me because he is the first to tell me if I am going "over the top". As these are to thank the addressees for their service, I wanted to be pretty sedate and dignified, and to only use embellishments if it truly added something appropriate to the card. Here are some the designs we finally agreed we liked. Heidi, Mike is getting the one immediately below!

Byron didn't care for the rhinestone brad in this one, but did agree that it needed something. What we couldn't agree on was exactly what it did need!

I also used a Bravo Burgundy/Night of Navy combo on some cards. That is a very "Americana" color combo that I loved using for Land That I Love (another oldie but goodie that needs to see some ink--maybe next month). I didn't care for it so much with this stamp set, though-- not sure why. Maybe a bit too sober when compared to the Real Red cards?

On to thank you cards today, as my sub day was canceled (darn budget cuts!)-- as some of you have no doubt noticed, they are LONG overdue!

Have a great day!

January Stamp Club

2009-01-16T17:17:00.000-08:00

I so enjoy the ladies in my club. We always have a great time laughing and creating together. Wednesday was no exception (we missed you, Kelley!) except there was a bit of sadness. For the time being, I can't commit to another round of the club, and I think we all realized just how much we will miss each other (and the swap cards!!). We should find out if the bank will accept our offer on the other house (it is a short sale so the bank has the final word, although the sellers have already accepted and it is no longer being shown to others). If yes, then I will have a good solid 2 months work getting us packed up and settled in, not to mention getting this one ready to be rented. Byron has already done most of the kids' bathroom (ours is next!) and it will be so nice that staying here a little longer won't be a hardship. Oh wait, there go the dogs again..... Keep your fingers crossed for us! I'm trying very hard to emulate Doris Day (que sera, sera....) but we had expected to hear by now! The realtor said mid-Jan.

There is a definite learning curve to the world of blogging and I haven't turned the corner yet, so this does not look as smooth as I would like. Above is the Hershey Bar holder (you could also use Laffy Taffy, but I am addicted to that, so chose not to have so much tempation around!) we made at the January Club meeting. You can get 3 of these out of one piece of cardstock. I based this on Amy Celona's Kind Friend candy holder, just made it smaller and centered. You can see all of Amy's creations at www.ustampforfun.com. She's amazing!

Heidi B. showed me how to make a scalloped medallion. It was so easy I was eager to show everyone. The medallion was the easiest thing about this card! Then I fiddled and fiddled and fiddled with how to embellish it. I put everything down and went to bed, incredibly frustrated that the simple-yet-elegant Valentine's card I envisioned was not materializing. The next day, I came back and tried to figure out the red inside layer. That worked, but I still wasn't happy with anything else. I tried several different color combos, any large embellishment I had, still no joy---nada, nyet, niente, rien! Finally a scrap of gold metallic ribbon fell across the card as I rummaged through yet another container and EUREKA! I knew exactly how to finish the card. I matted brushed gold behind the medallion, embossed "I heart u" and punched it with the Curly label punch. Just needs a little something more.......the heart from A Happy Heart was too large, but this one from Best Wishes and More was just right. Mission accomplished!

This next stamp set is oh-so-my- style. SU! gives demos the option of purchasing level 2 and 3 sets before the catalog comes out and this was my choice, Echoes of Kindness. You know how I love to watercolor! I followed a link from SCS and found myself on Jenn Dierks blog, Stamp Your Heart Out. She had the ingenious idea of going over the colored parts of the image with a Versamarker, then embossing with Crystal Clear EP. Then, sponging the color for the background is a breeze, because the embossed bits won't take the ink. Good one, Jenn!

I love daily planners. Mine is always tucked into my purse, ready to be pulled out and scribbled in. I found these at Michael's-- I would have preferred the larger ones we did last year for the Christmas Gifts Class, but these are more traditionally-sized and turned out pretty cute! I started to stamp the year on my design (don't you love the new Raspberry Tart designer paper? So pretty!) but something nagged at me; I knew somewhere in my stacks of sets there was the perfect saying for this. 15 minutes later, I held "Full of Life" up triumphantly and set to work. "Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans." So appropriate for a planner! The flowers are from Petal Pizzazz-- that set is so not my style. I got it mainly so I would be forced to stretch a bit artistically! I can hear some of you groaning right now-- "great, something else to cut out!".

Have a wonderful long weekend!

julia

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T11:02:00.000-08:00

2009 begins.......

Of course I have been thinking of resolutions....... yes, weight, better habits, but mainly of stamping and scrapping. I did very, very little scrapbooking in 2008. Best of intentions, but no follow-through. 2009 WILL be different!

I pledge to stamp more for ME in 2009. That probably sounds funny-- you all know how much I do stamp! It seemed to me, though, that every time an exciting design sparked in my brain, it would have to wait until my "need-to-do" stamping got done. With better organization and not so much procrastination (hey, it is the New Year, I am supposed to dream BIG!), that should not happen so much.

Lastly, I pledge to stamp more for others. Friends and others from my church who are deployed. Friends who are not feeling their best, or going through a rough patch. Cards for friends with whom I have lost touch. Cards to say "thank you"-- for amazing special music at church. for providing a shoulder for me to lean on, for doing something nice for one of the kids. What I enjoy most about stamping is knowing I have tucked in a little love into every envelope. I need to do that more often!

What are your stamping resolutions for 2009?