Another Chance

TAKE IT TO HEART BIRTHDAY & STAMPIN' UP INSPIRATION TABLE

2012-02-05T14:35:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was celebration day for my granddaughter's 17th birthday, which was on February 2. Of course I waited until yesterday to make her a card and get a gift. In the morning I went over to the Antique Mall for her gift and bought a stack of old 50s and 60s vinyl records (45s ), as she is in love with her antique turntable we got her for Christmas. I wrapped them all together in a stack before putting into a box to wrap. I told my husband she would never be able to guess what they were before opening the wrapping (even tho they are round and she could feel them). He kept saying that she would because you could feel them through the paper. Well I was right, because I knew she had no idea what a small 45 record looked like (let alone a stack of 30). She was elated when she saw all those old records and also liked her vintage lead crystal perfume bottle. So we spent an hour listening to some oldies (for me). It brought back a lot of memories of my high-school dances and listening to records in my bedroom. I swear, I am so blessed to have a granddaughter that loves vintage as much as I do -- we both can spend hours at antique stores.
Last Thursday I got the rest of my Stampin' Up product needed to prepare projects for Ronda Wade's Sale-A-Bration and Occasions Mini Kick-Off Event on February 11. So it is crunch time for me, as I usually start at least 3 weeks prior to an event if I am doing a presentation. I can't show you pictures of what I am doing until after the event, but wanted to show you what works for me: my INSPIRATION TABLE. I learned this trick first from Andrea Walford and then noticed that Ronda Wade does pretty much the same thing. I get all the product in one place that I need to use for my assignment/theme and then work from that to create. It really saves a lot of time and keeps me focused on what product I need to use for my projects. Here are some pictures of what last week was about for me (right-click on the pictures and select "open in new tab and/or window" to enlarge):

Holly's Birthday Card using the Take It To Heart, Elements of Style, and Loved Ones Stamp Sets; Hearts Collection Framelits Die; Adorning Accents Edgelit Die and Textured Impressions Embossing Folder; Distressing Essentials Tea Stain; Vintage Trinkets Brads; Marina Mist Satin Ribbon; and Watercolor Wonder Crayons.

And here is Holly using some Stampin' Up product to finish her poster board for a class project.

My Inspiration Table: The bucket holds the majority of my Stampin' Up product that I will be using for my projects, next are the Big Shot Dies, Embossing Folders, etc. that I will be using.

Next are my tools, stamps, a few accessories, and working spot.

Next is my "entertainment and inspiration." I think that explains it all -- LOL!

Here is the long shot of my Inspiration Table. Yes, it looks like a junk pile, but I have to put up with it until I'm done, then everything goes back to its assigned spot. It works for me because I have everything close to inspire me and keep me focused on just the new product I want to use for the event. Sometimes (if I am very lucky), I set up my Inspiration Table with product that is discontinued or I haven't used in a long time, just so I make sure I use what I buy.

I would be very interested in what you do to inspire you when you are creating. As you can see, I have used many tips/ideas from all my stampin' friends, and I always love to get new ideas to try out. So leave me a comment that includes how you get organized to create.

Until next time,
Sandi

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the just run to it and are safe." -- Proverbs 18:10
"Father, how quickly I forget how safe I am in Your love. Help me come in from the dark and my fears, and simply curl up and rest in the safety You provide." -- Roberta Rogers

CARD CLASS SAMPLES

2012-01-26T20:41:00.000-06:00

How about this weather?? Can you believe it. I just went outside and it is pouring rain. But I'm not complaining -- who would complain about rain in January? I just have this awful feeling we will be in for a real surprise before June gets here (have we ever had snow in May?) One of the reasons I love living in Michigan -- you just never know what the weather will be like, and if you think you know than 9 times out of 10 you will be wrong.

I finally got started today working on my assignment from Ronda for her Sale-A-Bration Kick-Off Event. I'm not lying when I say I sat at my work table for almost 4 hours looking at my designer paper trying to get something to pop in my brain. Well nothing really popped right up in my mind, so decided to try this new idea using one of our new dies. After wasting one whole sheet of designer paper, my brain started working. So my whole day was spent just thinking (which we all know is hard for me) and I only finished one sample!! Now I know why my doctor has been sending me for all this testing. I could have saved myself a lot of time and money if she would have asked me and I could have answered -- "No, I don't have a working brain at the moment. It hibernates in the winter -- Don't they all?" So I am really hoping my creative juices will runnith over tomorrow and the man in brown shows up at my door to bring the rest of my supplies.

Oops, I almost forgot. You came here to see something new. So here are the rest of my cards from my card class:

Supplies: Flirtatious Specialty Designer Series Paper; Melon Mambo and Whisper White Card Stock; Distressing Essentials (Tea Stain Ink); Soft Suade Classic Ink; Fleurette; Pretty In Pink Brad; Organza Ribbon; and Tagtastic Stamp Set.

This card design came from Ronda Wade. Supplies: Pretty In Pink, Real Red, and Whisper White Card Stock; Real Red Classic Ink; Real Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon; P.S. I Love You Stamp Set; Adorning Accents Textured Impressions Embossing Folder; and the Hearts Collection Framelits Dies.

Another Design from Ronda Wade. This was a card we made at her SAB Baggie Book class. I didn't have the same ribbon she used (new Pool Party Seam Binding Ribbon), so used the Poppy Parade 1/2 Stitched-Poly Ribbon (I love this line of ribbon, it ties up so nice and neat). Other Sale-A-Bration product used (my favorites): Fresh Vintage and On Your Birthday Stamp Sets; Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper; Pool Party and Poppy Parade Classic Ink; and Pool Party, Poppy Parade, and Whisper White Card Stock.

Happy stamping everybody -- I think I will go have a very small glass of wine (if I can find some), its just that kind of night.

Until next time,
Sandi

For my two younger sisters who will be flying in an airplane for the first time with me soon (after 60 years of their first life):

"If you ever get a second chance at life, you've got to go all the way." -- Lance Armstrong.

RUE DES FLEURS MEETS EDGELITS DIE

2012-01-19T23:17:00.001-06:00

Well it looks like ole' man winter has final stopped in town. Here we are freezing our buns, and everybody in stampin' land is down in Texas enjoying the sun and Leadership. I won't give it away, but get ready for an awesome new product coming soon from the company (aka Stampin' Up). I am so excited and thrilled that I work with the best direct sales company in the country (if not the world!!). The company doesn't keep up with the trend -- IT MAKES THE TREND, which the other companies follow. You will just have to stay tuned for the announcement, if you don't hear it from me first.

So getting on with today's post. I have a beautiful card to show you today, my favorite design for this Saturday's card class. Also, a great tip on how to use your new Edgelits and Framelits Dies (actually, I think I will use it for most of my Big Shot Dies). So here we go:

I think this is the 1st white on white card I have every created, and I love it. I used the new Reu Des Fleurs and Loving Thoughts Stamp Sets stamped in Basic Gray Classic Ink, on Whisper White Card Stock. The card base was embossed with the Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder with a 1" strip of Basic Gray Card Stock adhered behind the bottom front of the card that was cut with the new Adorning Accents Edgelits Die.

I love the inside as much as the front. I used the beautiful sentiment stamp God's Blessing for the inside of the wedding card. At the bottom I used the Romance Standard Wheel (sorry, I just realized it was discontinued from last year's IB&C). Everything was stamped in Basic Gray Classic Ink.

Here is how I cut my card stock using the new Edgelits Dies:

You might want to "right-click" your mouse on the above picture, and select "open in new tab" to show a larger picture. First, I cut a portion of Grid Paper (p. 207 of IB&C) the same size as a Big Shot Standard Cutting Pad. I then high-lighted the 1" lines in red marker, and extended those and the 1/4" lines (high-lighted in black marker) across to the right. I also wrote in the inches on the left. If you don't have grid paper and choose to make your own template, make sure you use very thin paper like copy paper or vellum. You don't want anything thick like card stock because it will be too tight to run through the Big Shot with your dies. To keep it clean and intact, and because I knew I would be using the template a lot, I covered the back and front with Avery Self-Adhesive Laminating Sheets.

A picture of the template laying on my Multipurpose Platform (in this case on Tab 2). I used a little Dotto repositional adhesive on the platform to keep the template in place (you don't want it sliding all around everytime you use it).

I "built my sandwitch" laying a Standard Cutting Pad on top of the template, then my White Card Stock making sure I use the gridlines on all four sides, then I positioned my Edgelit on the template/card stock. Notice that the left and right scallops on the card stock are even (i.e., I centered the Edgelit using the template). For my card above I wanted to cut off 1" from the bottom of my card (so my stamped wheel would show from the inside), so I lined the Edgelit up on the 1" line (marked in red marker). I did not have to tape the Edgelit down, I just carefully laid my Standard Cutting Pad on top to finish my "sandwitch" and ran it through the Big Shot.

I hope you can use my tip. I know I will get a lot of use from the template, as I plan on using it with a lot more of the Big Shot Dies. Another tip: Use an old, scratched up Standard Cutting Pad on the bottom of your sandwitch because it will get a lot more scratches on it from the edgelit (no sense ruining a brand new cutting pad). Have a nice weekend everybody,

Until next time,
Sandi
"The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of distress."
-- Psalm 9:10
"No matter what, I will trust in You, for You will be with me Lord." -- Mary Brown

STAMPIN' UP SALE-A-BRATION & MORE

2012-01-12T11:15:00.001-06:00

I am so excited because Stampin' Up is having their annual Sale-A-Bration event starting on January 24th!! And because I am a demonstrator, I got to order Occasions Mini Catalog product in December and received free Sale-A-Bration product!!! Yes, the home office does spoil us -- another reason you should sign up to be a demonstrator, tons of free product and let's not forget that discount!! And of course if you sign up now, there are some extra benefits. I know you want to, so give me a call and I will get you set up. Some of my cards today were done at our RubberQueen meeting this week, another great benefit if you sign up as one of my recruits.

I have developed a terrible cold (thanks to my sister Pam who stayed at my place last weekend), so I am going to move right along to show you these awesome cards featuring product from the Occasions Mini Catalog and new Sale-A-Bration sets.

I designed this card last weekend when my other sister was here (she is also a demonstrator) just to play around with the new Hearts Collection Framelits Die. As soon as I saw this in the Occasions Mini Catalog, I knew I wanted to make a card shapped like a heart. For this one I used a standard card size (10" x 4 1/4" folded in half), in Whisper White Cardstock. I'm going to do another one, but use the larger Heart Framelit, so it will fit in Stampin' Up's large square envelope.

Here is what the inside looks like.

I pulled the tag out for this picture.

This was one of Ronda's make'n takes at our meeting Tuesday. Of course I wasn't feeling well so I took it home to make it, and then realized I didn't have the stamp set she used. So it does look a little different.

This is what I came up with for the inside. I punched the little hearts out, then punched some in Mellon Mambo Card Stock and applied them a little off center to look like a shadow.

Another make'n take from our meeting. I just changed the punced border on this one because I love this punch!!

I need to go Vick's up and fix me a hot toddie as I can't breath, sorry for not giving a list of supplies used this time. If you have any questions, just leave me a comment with your e-mail address.

Until next time,
Sandi
"Love your enemies . . . and pray for those who . . . persecute you." -- Matthew 5:44
"People may mock our message but they are helpless against our prayers."

ORGANIZING!!

2012-01-05T17:36:00.001-06:00

Okay, I know I'm slipping here by not posting in over two weeks. The truth is, I have been goofing off along with doing some long-needed cleaning in my house. I actually have been stamping a lot and finishing some projects, but nothing you probably would want to see. I stamped about 150 Christmas cards and mini projects since after Christmas (in between cleaning). I told myself that I was not going to pack away my Christmas stamps and designer paper this year until I finished all the projects I started in the last 4 years (yep, you read it correctly -- FOUR YEARS!!). A lot of it was already cut and prepped, but there was still a lot to complete. As of this moment I am done!!! The rest of my day (as soon as I finish this) will be spent cleaning my room and packing everything away.

Another thing I finished was putting together all my stamp sets from the new Occasions Mini Catalog. So that was 20 stamp sets (including Sale-A-Bration sets). While I was doing this I thought I would take pictures and show you how I put my clear mount stamp sets together and organize them when I am done. I am a "little" finicky when I organize and have to make sure I don't switch my methods. When you get my age, "organization" is the fix for loosing your memory (along with carrying a pad and pencil around with you all day to take notes so I can remember what I went upstairs to get; or better yet, what I was going to get when I went from one end of the room to the other). So here is how I do it:

1. Remove all the stamp images from the rubber sheet (I personally think it is easier if you push them out from the back).

2. Remove all the white backing from the foam (you can stop here and just mount on clear acrylic blocks or add the label).

3. I remove one backing at a time, then line up the stamp backing (foam side down) to the sticky label and press down to adhere and then pull up. The stamp is now ready to adhere to your acrylic block. Tip: When mounting on the clear block press down and count to 10 -- you should be able to see bubbles on the label when it is mounted correctly so it does not fall off even when cleaning.

4. I then cut off the label at the bottom of the label sheet.

5. Remove the white backing from the front of the label.

6. Stick the label on the bottom front of your DVD case.

7. This is the front of one DVD case. Notice I have written in the catalog and year at the bottom. This saves me a lot of time when I am asked or need to know what catalog I purchased the stamp set.

8. This is the back of my DVD case. I have cut the picture of the set, along with the price and number of stamps, from the catalog. This saves me time also if I decide to sell at a later date by knowing what was the original cost.

9. Another picture of the bottom side. I put the label here because my bookcase shelves are not tall enough for me to store like a book and to see the name when I pack in boxes to store after the set is discontinued.

10. This is what the set looks like inside. I always keep the original rubber sheet to put the stamps back in so they stay organized and I am able to see at a glance if a stamp is missing.

This is my shelf for CURRENT stamp sets with everything labeled and organized by theme. Notice I have one section (middle shelf on right) just for the current mini catalog (no, I don't have "all" the Occasions stamp sets yet).

Close-up of my wood-mounted stamp sets with typed labels. Besides the name of the set, I include the price, number of stamps, and brief description of stamps. (Enlarge the picture for more detail by selecting the picture and doing right-click to open in new tab).

This is overall view of all my current stamps that sit right in front of me at my stamping desk.

After all of that, I think you deserve a picture of something I created today. This piece of white cardstock has been sitting on one of my work stations for months, I think it was left over from a class when I embossed it in the wrong direction. So decided to put something on it for next year. The good news is that all the product is still current!!

I hope you got some ideas about how to organize your stamps today, or maybe you could leave me a comment and give me some tips to use about how you do yours. Yes, I probably overdue putting my stamps together -- but trust me, it saves me tons of time later. Look for more tips in upcoming posts.

Until next time (hopefully sooner than this time),
Sandi

"And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. . . ." -- Genesis 1:31
"Father, everything You make is good. Let me look for the pattern of Your goodness in all the happenings of my life." -- Pam Kidd

STAMPIN' UP: FROSTWOOD LODGE & LETTERS TO SANTA

2011-12-23T08:55:00.002-06:00

Well I didn't think I would be posting again before Christmas, but wanted to show you this album cover that I decorated before I give it away for Christmas. I decorated the 20 album pages a couple of years ago with a now discontinued Stampin' Up Christmas Simply Scrappin' Kit. The actual album is our discontinued On Board 8 1/2" x 11" chipboard album. But, I decorated it with our current Frostwood Lodge and Letters To Santa Designer Paper. I hope she likes it.

And look, no stamping!!

Before I leave I want to say thank you to Nancy Dawson for honoring me with The Versatile Blogger Award. It is always such a joy to know others like your blog and might go away with some ideas.
Please take a moment to visit Nancy's blog here, she is a really talented stamper and I love her card using the new Gnome Sweet Gnome stamp set.

Merry Christmas!
Sandi
"Give me time to tell this new generation (and their children too) about all your mighty miracles." -- Psalm 71:18
"Heavenly Father, thank You for the books, classes, workshops and groups of friends that help keep my mind active and my life punctuated with pizzazz." -- Patricia Lorenz

STAMPIN' UP BELLS & BOUGHS

2011-12-19T11:10:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday!!
Is it getting crazy at your place yet? I think by tomorrow I will be in my "frantic" mode. Still haven't even started making my gifts yet -- so many ideas floating around in my head. My kids have mentioned so many different things that they want me to make for them, that it is hard to narrow it down a bit. I guess I will start with the things they asked for last year, which I didn't get done and will keep me busy right up until Christmas Eve. Thank goodness the guys in my family never seem interested in hand-made gifts. Or could it be that "I" am not very talented in that area? I think it is the later.

I have been fooling around for 3 days just completing cards that I started "last year." Yep, don't even ask me to explain, but the short version is I completed about 60 Christmas cards from left over supplies and projects I started last year. I am so tired of having this huge plastic wash tub full of stamp sets, cut card stock, accessories, etc. sitting in my storage area. I have actually enjoyed doing them (maybe it is because it gives me an excuse to not start something new?). So, because I have been fooling around and not creating "new" projects, I am showing you a couple of cards I have gotten this year and one of my cards (from last year) that I finished this morning (I had supplies for 10 cut and ready to go).

This is my card from last year, I just changed it a bit. Everything but the designer paper is still current product: Bells and Boughs Stamp Set, Belle Standard Wheel, Gold Embossing Powder, Cherry Cobbler Ink and Card Stock, Sahara Sand Card Stock, Very Vanilla 1/8th inch Taffeta Ribbon, Watercolor Brush with Cherry Cobbler, Garden Green, and Tea Stain Ink.

This is a card I received from my sister Lois Purcell. Love that Glimmer Card Stock!!

This card I received from my friend, neighbor, and customer: Cheryl Tonkin. And, no, she did not do this card at one of my classes. She is a very talented stamper on her own!

This card I received from another friend, whom I am forever in debt to because of all the times she has typed her heart out entering product into my Automated Excel Workshop Forms. And that would be Linda Tarolli, from New York. Isn't it so cute with all the bling and Mica Flakes.

Thank you ladies for the beautiful cards. I am being totally honest when I tell you that receiving hand-made cards really is the highlight of the holiday season for me. It is so true, even for us stampers, that it truly brightens your day to get a stamped card in the mail -- forget the gifts, I'll take a card any day!!

I probably won't be posting again until after Christmas, so I want to express my gratefullness to all of you who visit my blog and take time to leave a comment (another thing I love). And I leave you with these words from one of my very favorite stamps this year (it so expresses what I want to say and exactly what I would never be able to come up with on my own): "May the miracle of Christmas find you safe in the Peace of God, warm in the Light of Christ." -- Stampin' Up Gods Blessing

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,
Sandi
"Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife." -- Matthew 1:24
"Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading." -- Chambers

STAMPIN' UP CLEARANCE RACK BLITZ!!

2011-12-15T11:27:00.001-06:00

Clearance Rack Blitz Begins Today

December 15, 2011

From December 15, 2011, through January 5, 2012, nearly 200 products are being added to the Clearance Rack in the Online Store--with some discounted up to 80 percent! Visit my Online Store and click on the "Shop Now" button to take part in the savings yourself!

Please note: Within the Online Store, in the Clearance Rack Blitz category, there will be some identical punches that have two different item numbers; this is because we are using inventory from both our American and our European warehouses. It will indicate which punches this affects in the product description.

Dates: December 15, 2011-January 5, 2012

Details: Nearly 200 new Clearance Rack items are being added to the Online Store at discounts up to 80 percent off retail--while supplies last!

Things to Remember:

Only online orders qualify for this promotion. Orders can include non-Clearance Rack items, as well.
The Clearance Rack Blitz includes old-body style punches.
There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.
Qualifying Clearance Rack orders are eligible for hostess benefits/Stampin' Rewards.
Following the Clearance Rack Blitz sales period, some blitz items may remain in the clearance rack; others may be removed and reappear at an undesignated time in the future.
Clearance Rack Blitz items are only available while supplies last. There are no refunds or exchanges on Clearance Rack items.
You may view Clearance Rack Blitz items by going to my Online Store here then click on the "Shop Now" button. (Make sure my name is indicated on upper-right as your demonstrator so you get the lower "preferred" price.)
Deadline: Thursday, January 5, 2012; 11:50 PM (MT)

If you have any question please give me a call or e-mail me. I hope to update my blog again soon with some new projects, just started Christmas shopping yesterday (finished in 2 hours) and still have a lot of gifts to make. Hope you are all are having a merry holiday season (I know it is hard sometimes with all the things on our list, but actually I am!!).

Until next post,
Sandi
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" -- Romans 12:18

GIFT CARD TUTORIAL

2011-12-05T14:40:00.005-06:00

I finally remembered that I promised you a tutorial on the gift card my ladies did at my Stamp-A-Stack. The idea for this card came from a RubberQueen make'n take (I just designed differently and changed measurements so it fit in a Stampin' Up Open End Envelope). I would have had this posted yesterday, but no juice in my camera! Because this is so lengthy, I’m getting right down to business (pick yourself up!). You can use the card to insert a gift card or picture(s), or both!! That is why I love the design. This is what you will be making (doesn’t look like much, but so cute in person).

STAMPIN' UP PRODUCT USED:

STAMPS: Jolly Jingles Jumbo Wheel and Snow Much Fun

CARD STOCK:

6" x 8" Crumb Cake (card base)

1 ½" x 6" Cherry Cobbler (punched with Scallop Edge Border)

1" x 7" Cherry Cobbler (belly band)

Two pieces of 2 ½" x 4" Crumb Cake (inside note cards)

Whisper White (1 ¾" circle punch) and Cherry Cobbler (2 Round Tabs) scraps.

INK: Black StazOn and Night of Navy

ACCESSORIES:

Markers (Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake, Pumpkin Pie, & Marina Mist; Punches (Scallop Edge Border, 1 ¾" Circle, Round Tab, & 2 3/8" Scallop); Medium and Open-End (#107286) envelopes; Sticky Strip; Dazzling Details; and Dimensional.

DIRECTIONS:

Instructions 1 and 2
1. Score 6" x 8" Crumb Cake at 2 ¾" and 5 ¾".

2. Fold so the long end (2 ¾") folds inside and the short end (2 ¼") folds down on top for front of card.

Instructions 3 & 4
3. Unfold and turn card stock to the front, with short end at bottom, to decorate.

4. On the short end (2 ¼") wheel the Jolly Jingles Jumbo Wheel in Night of Navy.

Instructions 5 & 6
5. Punch the 1 ½” x 6” Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, using Scallop Edge Border Punch & adhere to front panel (short end).

6. Stamp the long end top-fold (2 ¾") with Snow Much Fun Stamp Set and color with markers.

Instruction #7
7. Seal a Medium Envelop and fold it in half. With the fold at the bottom, cut ¼" off from the top (gives you 2 pockets).

Instruction #8
8. Apply 3 pieces of Sticky Strip (approx. 2 ½") long to the front, center, and back of envelop – making sure each strip is centered in the middle (see picture). If you tape around the edges it will be too tight. Adhere to inside of the card.

This is what the inside will look like after attaching the pocket.

Instruction #9
9. Assemble belly band using 1" x 7" Cherry Cobbler (I used small piece of Sticky Strip to tape together); punch a scrap of Cherry Cobbler Card Stock with the 2 3/8" Scallop Punch; and stamp the snowman on Whisper White scrap, punch with1 ¾" Circle Punch, and color with markers. I used a dimensional to adhere to belly band and used a drop of Dazzling Details on each scallop.

Instruction #10
10. Stamp one of the 2 ½" x 4" Crumb Cake note cards and leave the other note card blank to adhere the gift card. You can use these note cards to attach pictures also. For class purposes, I had them stamp one of the note cards so they could adhere a picture over the top when they got home if they wanted. Punch 2 Round Tabs from scrap Cherry Cobbler Card Stock and adhere to tops.

Finished card on outside and inside.

Wow, there must be an easier way to add instructions than the way I just did. I sure hope with all these pictures that I didn't leave anything out -- if nothing else, I think these are over-kill!! However, if for some reason I did, please let me know so I can edit this post. Thanks for hanging in there!!

Until next time,
Sandi
"Most people don't realize that writing is a craft. You have to take your apprenticeship in it like anything else." -- Katherine Anne Porter

ADVENT CALENDAR: 25 & COUNTING

2011-11-27T11:37:00.000-06:00

Glory be!!! Finally I have my Advent Calendars completed. I can only show you one because that is the only one I have a picture for (yah, nothing like waiting until the last moment -- my favorite saying!!). I started this project in the middle of October because I had to put the Advent Boxes together (yes, that was a story that we won't go into now). It came in about 5 flat boards, which you glued together and then made the boxes and glued them together. Okay, got that done and thought the worst was over -- nope, opened my paint up that was mixed at store to match Stampin' Up's Cherry Cobbler and it was an ugly pink/orange!! Okay, didn't get real upset as I had my backup mixed paint that was matched with Stampin' Up's Early Expresso. You can probably guess what color that looked like -- I can't write what I was thinking, but a synonym would be "do-do." I called my husband in despair, and he came to the rescue by going back to the paint store. Of course, they made him pay for a new can and could only create a color for the Cherry Cobbler -- Early Espresso was not in their computer (don't ask, that would be another book). The good news is that I got them painted in time for the Creative Retreat weekend, but only managed to get my Stampin' Up designer paper glued on 50 boxes (hey, Ronda keeps us busy). So for the entire month of November I have been designing all the boxes off and on -- yep, this week was crunch time!!

Okay, if you are still with me, how about some pictures? These are not the best because we have no sunshine today (just rain), but if you right-click and open in new window or tab you can see the larger picture. I will take it as a "yes" that you don't want me to write any longer and just show the pictures -- LOL.

And here it is!!

Sorry, this is a little blurry, but best I could do at my age! These are my favorite 2 boxes (just love the shaker frame with all that dazzling diamonds). And yes, that would be our retired Pretties Kit hanging off the ornament.

Don't drop over - - I actually sewed Santa's bag with Deck the Halls Designer Fabric and lining!! Hanging is a Beveled Windowpane.

ADVENT CALENDAR WITH MY DIGITAL STUDIO & SUPPLIES (PARTIAL LIST)

Stamps: 25 & Counting

Ink: Marina Mist, Garden Green, Cherry Cobbler, Early Expresso, Soft Suede, Mahogany Distressing Ink, Versa Mark

Paper: Marina Mist, Garden Green, Cherry Cobbler, Early Expresso, Soft Suede, Whisper White, Red and Silver Glimmer Paper, Crumb Cake and Letters to Santa and Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper.

Big Shot Dies: Peek-A-Boo Frames, Stocking Accents, Northern Frost, #2 Circles, Movers & Shakers

Punches (some that I remember): Curly Label, Large Tag, Doily Triple Layer, Ribbon Border, Eyelet Border, Scallop Square, 1” circle and Square, 1 ¼” Square and Circle, & Postage Stamp.

Ribbon: Victoria, Very Vanilla Satin, Cherry Cobbler Stripped Grosgrain, Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding, Whisper White Taffeta, Cherry Cobbler Quilted, Vanilla Designer Velvet, and Baker’s Twine.

Additional Accessories: Stitched Felt, Shaker Frame, Beveled Windowpane, Basic Rhinestones and Pearls, Gold and White Embossing Powders, Dazzling Diamonds, Vintage Trinkets, Frost White Shimmer Paint, Deck the Halls Fabric, Jingle Bells, On-Board Sheets, Dazzling Details, Anywhere Glue Stick, Multipurpose Liquid Glue Stick, Glue Dots, Crystal Effects, and Distressing Essentials (Precision Tools). (You will see a few discontinued items also; e.g., Hodgepodge Hardware and Pretties Kit).

The supply list above probably does not include a few things, as I started putting things away before I thought of writing down everything I use. Let's just put it this way -- my "inspiration table" is 10 feet long and it was covered and stacked in some places!!

Please let me know what you think by leaving a comment -- I always appreciate feedback (pros & cons).

Until Next Time,
Sandi
"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. . . ." -- Mark 12:30
"Lord, help me to love as intensely as You do." -- Lucile Allen

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"SNOW MUCH FUN" WITH MORE CHRISTMAS CARDS

2011-11-20T11:24:00.001-06:00

Good Morning America (and my friends in other countries!!)

Well here I am on this beautiful Sunday, blessing the Lord for all the sunshine he is sending our way. I have to admit, I can handle the cold and snow so much better (about 99.9%), as long as the sun is shining. Here in Michigan, noted for the least amount of sunshine in the states, I always feel like it is a blessing to see the sun.

Yesterday was card class day and I created some really different (and a little more challenging) cards. This class was not a "stamp-a-stack" so I could have cards that took a little longer than 10 minutes to re-create. But I have to tell you, and this is the truth, my customers met the challenge with flying colors and said they enjoyed learning the new techniques. They water colored with crayons for the first time, did a gate-fold card using a difficult fine-lined stamp to emboss, did some paper piecing, and created a beautiful gift-tag holder (I will post that, with step-by-step directions, next post). Here are three of the cards:

I loved this card, very simple -- but a few tips to make it work. My images were from the Welcome Christmas and Christmas Lodge Stamp Sets. The tree was stamped in Wild Wasabi Classic Ink and before stamping I applied Garden Green Marker directly on top of the ink to highlight areas before stamping. Then used Early Express Marker on the image for the tree bark. The Baja Breeze Card Stock was then misted heavily and set aside to dry while the snow layers were put together. I cut a 3" x 4" piece of Whisper White Card Stock and stamped it with the Welcome Christmas stamp image. Then it was torn and sponged with Baja Breeze Classic Ink (the smaller piece of torn card stock (top piece) was flipped over to expose the ripped edge prior to sponging). The object here was to cover the bottom of the tree image that was stamped in Wild Wasabi. Then the sentiment on the tag was adhered. Ask me why I didn't spray the Frost White Shimmer Paint on the whole card. Okay, I confess -- found out the hard way that my Basic Black Classic Ink images bled because I wanted a "lot" of snow affect!!! And it looked better dog gone it!!

Another simple card, but different card layout for my customers. I believe this was the first time they have ever done a gate-fold card. I used the Merry & Type Stamp Set; Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, and Whisper White Card Stock; and Early Espresso 1/4" Taffeta Ribbon. The main tip for this card is to make sure you use your Embossing Buddy on the card stock prior to stamping the ornaments in Versa Mark Ink because this is such a fine-detailed stamp. I also cut my gate-fold panel at 4" x 5 1/4" and scored at 2" and 4", using Stampin' Up's new Simply Scored tool, to allow a 5 1/2" x 4 1/4" back panel in the Early Espresso Card Stock. Did I mention how much I love this new tool???? One of the very best new tools since the Big Shot!!

Okay, I thought this card would scare the crap out of my customers -- but was totally surprised when they all wanted to start at this card station. I gave them 2 versions (this one and the one below) and told them they could watercolor a lot or as little as they wanted. I didn't get to see all of the finished cards, but the ones I did see had watercolored the entire card and they did a totally awesome job. None of them had used Stampin' Up's Watercolor Wonder Crayons before so this was a learning experience for them. One lady just didn't want to stop and was late to her child's semi-finals game. Anyway, I used the totally awesome Snow Much Fun Stamp Set and the following Watercolor Wonder Crayons with the Aqua Pen: Tempting Turquoise, Pacific Point, Cajun Craze, Real Red, Wild Wasabi, Garden Green, Tangerine Tango, Basic Gray, Crumb Cake, and Early Expresso.

Here is my "oopsie" card that I used just to demonstrate how it would look without watercoloring everything (or everything but the sky -- LOL).

That is it for today. Now I have to get my order ready for tomorrow's Online Extravaganza, Stampin' Up's annual sale to kick off the holiday shopping season. It will run through Wednesday, November 30, 2011. Log in to my Online Store* on Monday, November 21, to take advantage of great savings, like FREE digital downloads valued at $40 when you buy My Digital Studio Express, 60% off select Designer Fabrics, and 30% off an exclusive ribbon bundle!

In addition, there will be two items on sale for 24 hours only (November 21, 12:01 AM – 11:59 PM [MT])—so make sure you don’t miss the first 24 hours of Online Extravaganza! Even I don't know what these items are, so I can't wait to find out!!!

Remember your blessings on Thanksgiving Day!
Sandi
"To every thing there is a season. . . . A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance." -- Ecclesiasters 3:1 - 4
Lord, thank you for blessing me with the knowledge that as I grow older, there will always be new life, new joy, and new discoveries. -- Sandi

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VINTAGE BACKGROUNDS

2011-11-12T10:52:00.001-06:00

Well today is your lucky day!!! Yep, I am posting the last of my cards I made for Creative Convention. You will remember, my assignment was to showcase background stamps for my presentation. (Of course, I gave the assignment to myself because I love using Stampin' Up's background stamps.) I am so glad that Stampin' Up still comes out with new backgrounds every year. I was afraid we were going to loose them with all the marvelous Big Shot Embossing Folders (which I consider in the same category as Background Stamps). Females love to have it all you know -- kinda like shoes and purses, you can never have too many.

Speaking of "never having too many," I found out that men have this same problem -- at least my man does!! My husband has this habit of going to the grocery store (mind you, I do all the grocery shopping and cooking -- so don't know why he needs to get in the grocery isles) and buy 5-10 of the same items. It drives me bananas because I have very little cupboard space, so I end up having to store groceries in the spare bedroom closet. At any given time you will see 10 jars of pickles, mustard, boxes of cereal, doggie treats, etc. You get the picture. And the very worse part: NOTHING WAS ON SALE!! Now would any woman in her right mind buy something that is not on sale????????? (Exception of course would be Stampin' Up product -- but that is okay because we have saved so much from buying everything else we need on sale.)

Okay, I hear you. Here are the cards you came here to see:

I paired the Sweet Floral Background Stamp with the Netting Background Stamp (sorry the picture is a little dark).

Another card using the Sweet Floral Background Stamp Set. You can't really tell by this picture, but parts of the flower petals and leaves are raised using Stampin' Dimensionals. I got this idea from a card done by Lynn Pratt.

Another using the Sweet Floral and Netting Background Stamps. This actually was a throw-away card because when I stamped the Sweet Floral it was way to bright after sponging for a vintage look. So put it aside and then came back to it a week later and decided to experiment by stamping the Netting Background Stamp on top using VersaMark and the new Pewter Embossing Powder (also for my frame around the sentiment).

This card is a CASE from the Stampin' Up Idea Book and Catalog, page 125, adding the Netting Background Stamp.

And my final card to show you (yes, there were a few more I'm not showing because I didn't really like them). Again, I used the Sweet Floral Background Stamp. This was a last minute card to use up some of stamped tissue paper from the vase made in my previous post. Just a quick, easy card using leftovers.

I hope you have enjoyed my series on background stamps. May Stampin' Up keep making background stamps forever. To me, not having a background stamp is like looking outdoors and there is no sky, clouds, or sunsets. Yes, we make beautiful cards without backgrounds. However, we need options (or everything) depending on our moods -- our cards depict the mood we are in or want to portray to others.

Happy Stampin'
Sandi
"You are the light of the world. . . ." -- Matthew 5:14
"Father, let my attitude light the way for happy times -- anywhere You choose to send me." -- Pam Kidd

2011 CHRISTMAS STAMP-A-STACK

2011-11-06T14:32:00.001-06:00

Okay, change of plan!! I was getting tired of posting my presentation projects using background stamps, so you are going to get some Christmas today. It is still a little early for me to think of posting Christmas projects but I know I will be doing a lot more in the next month so I will interchange between my Christmas projects and Fall projects. As long as there isn't snow on the ground yet, I guess I can get away with that plan -- how does it sound to you?

These cards were done for my annual Christmas Stamp-A-Stack. I really concentrated on doing cards my customers could send in the mail without having to pay for extra postage and something fast, yet still have a "WOW." I don't know if I achieved the "WOW" factor, but the ladies liked them (of course I was holding an axe over their head when I asked). A couple of the cards were CASEd from swap cards. (Sorry I don't have the all of the names who I CASEd from, so make sure to tell me if you know, that way I can give proper credit.) Fast and simple cards are very, very hard for me so most times I have to CASE these, but I did create a couple for class or put my own twist on a CASE. So here they are:

I got the layout idea for this card from one Ronda Wade created, just changed the image (Polar Party Stamp Set) and border to the Ribbon Punch, using the Silver Glimmer Paper (I just love this sparkly paper.)

This was a total CASE from another Ronda Wade card -- just changed the sentiment -- featuring the Christmas Lodge Stamp Set.

Very simple card featuring the new Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper, Cherry Cobbler Quilted Satin Ribbon, Stitched Stockings and Hand-Penned Holiday Stamp Sets, and the new Stocking Builder Punch.

You can't get any simpler than this card, but I still loved it and it was a favorite of my customers. I used the Christmas Lodge and Welcome Christmas Stamp Sets. (I have loved this set since seeing all of Tamie Ackerson's cards last year but waited to see if it would stay before buying it this year).

And finally, as soon as I saw this card Melissa Davies did for the Creative Convention shoebox swap, I knew I was going to CASE. Yes, it does take a little more time, but I had everything prepped for my customers so it wasn't as bad. They loved the card as much as I did.

Please leave a comment and let me know which one is your favorite (I hope you have one at least). Now this girl has got to get back to decorating my Advent boxes!!!

Until next time,
Sandi
"Now the body is not a single part, but many." -- I Corinthians 12:14
Father, help us to remember that it takes many people joining hearts and hands around the world to share "the gifts His goodness gave."

HELLO, DOILY AND PARLOR PRINTS

2011-10-31T12:43:00.000-05:00

Wow, I survived another great weekend!!! Twice a year I get to attend Creative Retreat and be pampered, and I love every minute. However, you can't play without paying. Attending Retreat means no "sleep." I mean my gosh, there are priorities when you go to Retreat -- and sleeping is not one of them. I think I had a total of 6 hours while I was there, and that was a lot more than most of the ladies attending. I bet Ronda Wade and Melissa Roberts (our hosts) had no more than 4 hours of sleep, and that is being generous. They prepared awesome make'n takes and the classes were the same. Great food, games, Halloween costumes, and people attending; along with many other surprises.

However, I know you are stopping by to see what I have created lately, so here are some more of my cards I made for Creative Convention (I promise, only one more post and I will be done showing you these cards). Today I am featuring the Hello, Doily and Parlor Prints.

If you enlarge this picture by using the "right-click" on your mouse and select "open in new tab," you will see that I have embossed the Hello, Doily Background Stamp with the new Pewter Stampin' Emboss Powder. I love this new embossing color and hope SU will have it in our new 2012-2013 Idea Book and Catalog next July. I also used the Delicate Doilies Stamp Set, Brushed Gold Cardstock, and Victoria Ribbon (using Basic Black Ink Refill to dye).

This card was inspired by a sample in the 2011-2012 IB&C (page 201), with a few things changed. You can barely see the Window Pane used, but it is gorgeous in person.

I had a piece of stamped tissue paper left over from my glass votive candle and couldn't bear to throw it away so this is what I did with it. Hello, Doiley was embossed on the tissue paper with White Embossing Powder.

I love the Parlor Prints Background Stamp!! It screams "vintage" at me. I have paired it with the Always Grateful Stamp Set.

Again, another use of the Parlor Prints Background Stamp Set paired with the Studio Scetches Stamp Set.

Well I guess it is time for me to get some real work done around here, so until next time enjoy this Fall weather while you can!!

Thanks for stopping by,
Sandi

". . . If he [your neighbor] cries out to me, I will hear him, for I am compassionate." -- Exodus 22:26
"Heavenly Father, give me the grace to know when listening is the best thing I can do for a troubled friend." -- Oscar Greene

SUNFLOWER SEASON

2011-10-24T10:29:00.001-05:00

Yikes, I guess I am a little behind on updating my blog!! Sorry about that, but things just kept getting in the way. I had an awesome weekend of stamping with all my friends in my stamping class. Did my first Christmas Stack class for the year (yeah, yeah -- I know I started a little late this year). But that seems to be my middle name lately, "late." Sorry I'm not showing pictures of the cards today because I still have pictures from my Creative Convention presentation on "Background Stamps." Today I have a few using the awesome new Sunflower Background Stamp and my shoebox swap.

I paired the Sunflower Background with the Alway Grateful Stamp Set here. Accesories: Cajun Craze 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon and Vintage Eyelets.

The Sunflower Background Stamp was paired with the En Francais Background Stamp. The Sunflower was stamped on tissue paper in Not Quite Navy Classic Ink and sponged with Soft Suede Classic Ink. Accessories: Lucky Limeade Ruffled Ribbon, Linen Tread, Jewelry Tag Punch, and Anywhere Glue Stick.

I don't think you can get anything more simplier than this card -- it is literally a 1-minute card including cutting! The Sunflower Background Stamp is stamped directly on Well Worn Designer Series Paper, in Cajun Craze Classic Ink and the sentiment (from Pursuit of Happiness Stamp Set) is stamped in Early Expresso Classic Ink.

I decided to do a bookmark for the Creative Convention Shoebox Swap as I had a lot of the plastic inserts left from a purchase I made a couple of years ago. Supplies: Always Grateful Stamp Set; Pizzazz and Confetti White Cardstock; Spice Cake Designer Series Pape; So Saffron, Marina Mist, and Wild Wasabi Markers; and Pear Pizzazz Classic Ink swipped direct to paper using blank rubber stamp.

I hope you like! Probably only two more posts and I will be done showing you my projects from Creative Convention presentation -- so bear with me.

Until next time,
Sandi
"Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." -- Matthew 28:20
"Lord, thank You for the ways You reveal Yourself to me, even when I'm not paying attention." -- Gail Thorell Schilling

ANCESTORS WITH BACKGROUNDS

2011-10-16T21:55:00.001-05:00

LOL, how do you like that title? Of course I am still showing you pictures of my projects using background stamps for the Creative Convention. So technically, it is correct -- just had to throw that little "pun" in my title. I am just going to plop in some pictures with this update because my show is on in 2 minutes (shows you where my priorities are, doesn't it). So without any more to-do, here are my album pages using background stamps:

My inspiration for this layout (on left) came from Page 16 of the Holiday Mini Catalog. Tami Ackerson had shown me a card she made using this weaving technique, and I loved it so much that I knew I was going to do a page for my heritage album using the weaving. I incorporated the sample on page 150, of the IB&C, also on this page and the one on the right.

Supplies Used: Parlor Prints, Sweet Floral, and Wonderfully Worn Background Stamps; Well Worn and Paisley Prints Designer Series Paper; Gently Falling and Letter It Stamp Sets; River Rock, Wild Wasabi, Early Espresso, and Not Quite Navy Card Stock (and some more, but can't remember); and Lace Ribbon Border, Scallop Corner, and Corner Rounder Punches.

I used the Cracked Glass Technique on the Sweet Floral panel (embossed in White Embossing Powder). Supplies: Same as page on left, plus Heat and Stick Powder, Holly Berry Bouquet Wild Wasabi Button, and Linen Thread.

As always, click on the pictures to enlarge so you can see the details. I love to scrapbook, just wish I did it more often!!

Thanks for stopping by, and would love your comments/suggestions.

Sandi
"It is good to give thanks to the Lord . . .." -- Psalm 92:1
Thank you, Lord, for reminding me of the importance of expressing my gratitude for small favors.

FALL WITH SPICE CAKE

2011-10-10T18:20:00.002-05:00

I hope you aren't tired of seeing some more of my projects I made for the Creative Convention. I told you I had a lot, and I still have enough to show for the rest of my posts this month. Today I am featuring the Spice Cake Product Suite, along with another background stamp. The weather and colors of this past week make it the perfect product to showcase. I just can't get into showing Christmas samples until at least the month before Christmas or there is some snow on the ground. I think too many of us skip over those beautiful Fall days with all the colors (can you tell it is my favorite time of the year). I have had these projects done for almost two months, so I am totally excited that I can finally show them on my blog.

This circular box was CASEd from the Holiday Mini Catalog, page 19. I have never made a circular box from scratch before so it was a challenge for me to do the math. But got lucky on the first try!! I used Wild Wasabi Card Stock for the base of the box, stamped with the new Parlor Prints Background Stamp in Not Quite Navy Classic Ink. Accessories included: Petite Pennants Builder Punch, 3/8" Twill Tape, On Board Merry Medley Chipboard, Antique Brads, Brass Eyelets (oops, I thought these were still current), Always Thankful Stamp Set, and Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper.

And here are my fabric pumpkins and card box. I got the pattern for the pumpkins from Martha Stewart'sWEB SITE (actually have had it for over a year, just didn't get done last year). These were easy peasy to make. I used the Spice Cake Designer Fabric, Chocolate Chip Baker's Twine to make the veins on the pumpkins, and some Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon. See below for box supplies.

The box was made using Stampin' Up's new Stampin' Card Keeper. I covered the entire box with First Edition Speciality Paper, then stamped the Sunflower Background Stamp on tissue paper with Not Quite Navy Classic Ink, ripped around the flower and adhered to the box with SU's Anywhere Glue Stick. I then sponged around edges, etc. with Soft Suede Classic Ink. A piece of the Spice Cake Frabic was tied around the lid and bottom of the box, then flowers made with the Sunflower Background Stamp Set (stamped on First Edition Speciality Paper and cut) were adhered. There is a Spice Cake Designer Button in the middle of one of the flowers that you probably can't see until you click on the picture to enlarge.

I hope we squeeze in one more beautiful day before the rain starts, but either way enjoy your week!!

Blessings to all,
Sandi

"He will be our guide even unto death." -- Psalm 48:14
"Dear Father, may all our partings be filled with Your peace." -- Karen Barber

TISSUE-STAMPED DECOUPAGE VASES

2011-10-05T15:36:00.003-05:00

Hello all!!
Today is another quick post because it is really to nice outdoors to be in front of this computer screen!! We are having some beautiful 70-degree Fall weather here in Michigan. And the trees are in full autumn color -- love this time of year, another reason I stay in Michigan!!

I am posting pictures of my tissue-stamped decoupage vases today. I totally loved doing these, and could have made tons more, but just not enough time. The wonderful part about doing these is the fact you will never have any two look alike, so it feels like a whole new piece of art each time you are done. I had so many demonstrators ask me how I made these at the Creative Convention, so I promised I would include this information when updating my blog. I have to give Sharon Field a huge thank-you for posting a tutorial on her blog, HERE, with the directions on how to make these. They are very easy, and very quick. Another project that the young ones (and teens) would be able to tackle and never have mistakes. My 16-year old granddaughter begged me to make one after she saw my first vase completed, and absolutely loved making hers (see picture of her finished jar below).

Make sure you click, or double-click, on the pictures to enlarge as the details really don't show up in these pictures. This is the first vase I made. I used the Sunflower, Sweet Floral, Wonderfully Worn, and French Filigree Background Stamps on white tissue paper. I think it turned out like a Claude Monet, who was a founder of French impressionist paintings.

This vase uses the Sweet Floral and Woodgrain Background Stamps.

My granddaughter made this glass urn, using the Sweet Floral and En Francais Background Stamps. She used SU's Markers to color the Sweet Floral. Didn't she do a great job!!

This was an old empty candle jar with a lid. I used the new Hello Doily (embossed in White Embossing Powder) and the En Francais Background stamps, then brayed over the tissue paper in Baja Breeze, and then sponged on some Crumb Cake Classic Ink.

Just another picture showing the jar with the lid removed and how opaque the glass is when applying the tissue paper.

Hope you enjoyed these, and you really need to give it a try because you will love it (you don't need to use a background stamp, but make sure you use a solid stamp as lined stamps don't work as well).

I'll be back in a couple of days with more projects!

Sandi
"Hear O Lord, and have pity upon me; O Lord, be my helper." -- Psalm 30:11
"Thank you, God, for the people who give me a helping hand. And today, please help me to be a helping hand to someone else." -- Linda Neukkug

CREATIVE CONVENTION!!!

2011-10-02T21:20:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a fabulous four days I have had!!! Most of you know by now that I have been preparing projects as a presenter for Ronda Wade's Creative Convention this last weekend. Well, let me tell you, it was absolutely fabulous. I learned so much, stamped for 4 days, and made some fabulous new friends as well as getting a chance to really sit down and visit with my old friends. There were 80+ ladies there, from all over. From the awesome Canadian ladies, to the large group from Tennessee, and demos in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and my home state, Michigan, we had a great representation of demonstrators from all over. If I left anybody out, please forgive me and remember that I am a senior citizen!!

So what does this mean to you? It means you are going to see tons of projects in the next couple of weeks from some very talented stamping demonstrators. Today is just a warm up -- so trust me, you better make sure you come back every couple of days to check out the rest. Tons of new ideas for you to try out!!

Today I want to show you our "convention bags" we received as we checked in -- so cute and very durable -- thank you RONDA!! And then some of the swap cards that were swapped on the night of our Social (when we were treated with a yum, yum chocolate fountain).

Yes, there were even SU product goodies in our bag. Don't you just love how Ronda designed the bags with the name of her convention, with matching notepads and pens. And of course, the added WOW was the monogrammed scalloped circle to identify who it belonged to as there were 80+ of these sitting all over the place!!

This was my swap card -- the theme was "Anything With a Stocking." My layout was somewhat CASEd from Debra Currier, just different colors, technique, etc. I used the reverse masking technique to make a shim before using the Snow Burst Embossing Folder and then brayed over the top with Whisper White Craft Ink. Card stock: Old Olive, Marina Mist, Whisper White, Riding Hood Red, and Letters to Santa Designer Series Paper. Accessories: Mini Jingle Bells, Baker's Twine, Rhinestones, and Stocking Builder Punch.

I had to show you this card done by Sheryl Spitzley, from Portland, Michigan -- isn't it gorgeous!!! You know I love anything vintage!!

And the winner of the "Anything With a Stocking Swap": Melissa Davies, of Michigan. Isn't this just the cutest design you have ever seen!! The details of this card can be found on her website, at www.rubberfunatics.blogspot.com

Well, I've had my shower and put on my "Advanced Nighttime Repair Serum" so I guess I am going to try again to see if it works and hit the sheets (it never has worked in the past -- I still wake up every morning looking old, but I'm hoping one day to be surprised). Please make sure you stop back to see my projects I made for my inspiration table -- a lot of new stuff and techniques!! I promise there will be something for everybody (especially when I also have over 100 new cards)!!

Thank you for stopping by,
Sandi
"Even in old age they will still produce fruit and be vital and green." -- Psalm 92:14
"Heavenly Father, thank You for the adventures that lie ahead." -- Patricia Lorenz

PROJECT H.O.P.E.

2011-09-16T15:37:00.001-05:00

What is PROJECT H.O.P.E? I'm sure many of you already probably know from reading Ronda Wade's Facebook or Blog posts that she has established a charity. However, it is worth repeating and passing the information on to everybody; hence, my update today is to spread the word.

Project H.O.P.E. (helping other people experience God's love) is dedicated to "helping others in times of need to experience God’s love through prayers, cards, and donations." To accomplish this goal we need you as part of our prayer and card warrior team. The Bible says:

“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.” -- Luke 6:38.

After sending out cards the other day, I cannot even put into words how on one hand, I felt pain for those individuals going through difficult times, life-threatening illness, or even death. On the other hand and at the same time, I felt blessed beyond words because I am able to make just a tiny difference in someone's life by praying for them and sending a card so they can experience God's love in a tangible way. My gift has returned to me in full and more!!! Take time today to visit Ronda's Project H.O.P.E. web site (still in the process of being expanded) and join our team. Let me know if you sign up and/or if you have any feedback/questions or write directly to Ronda.

Here are a couple of the cards I sent last week on behalf of Project H.O.P.E.:

A stamp set I haven't had out in a long time, but perfect for the little guys in the hospital undergoing cancer treatment. Did I mention that this is a good way to use your discontinued SU product?

Another old (but great) stamp set I haven't had out in a long time, using the stamp sanding technique (behind the oak tree).

On a lighter side, I want to share some pictures of what goes on at my place during the summer. We have so much fun and I'm already missing the picnics and swim days. And yes, I love to swim and do all of the silly things below when I am swimming. My plan is to keep on doing this for as long as my body allows me to get around (however, today the bones are really creaking). So I am now officially announcing the pond is closed for the season. Let the leaves begin to fall, the pumpkins adorn the house, and the bonfires begin!!!

I accidentally started a bonfire that got a little out of hand. This picture was taken after it had burned about halfway down). My granddaughter Holly is helping me with the water buckets.

My daughter Tricia (in middle) and some of the grandkids are really enjoying the weather!!

Ethan, Tricia, and granddaughter Emily acting like little kids but having a blast. (No, you are not going to see my picture.)

The younger grandkids decided the grown-ups were having too much fun so decided to get in on the act with their dad, Ethan.

Have a beautiful weekend!!
Sandi

"It is more blessed to give than to receive." -- Acts 20:35
Lord, thank you for your blessings that enable me to give in your name. But help me today, Father, to receive in your name as well as give.

TRIPLE EMBOSSED MASKED BACKGROUND

2011-09-07T17:30:00.001-05:00

Well how about that for a Title!?!? Okay, I have wanted to do a "double" embossed card for ages, but the technique just wasn't clicking in my head (no surprise there). Finally, after my 3rd different video, it clicked in my head. So yesterday for my RubberQueen meeting swap, I decided, "Hey, now that the light-bulb went off and I understand this technique, why not do a "triple-embossed" swap card. The card was very simple, it took me a lot longer to figure out the correct depth I needed for my shims (I think all Big Shots have a different pressure when rolling your embossing folders through them). So after taking about 2 hours making all kinds of shims (for different types of embossing folders), it took about 5 minutes to do the actual card. You can see Sage Kimble's video HERE on how to do double-embossing. Thank you so much Sage for your great video and making "double-embossing" understandable for even people with a burned out light bulb!! Here is my card:

Yes, this card is very, very plain!!! I knew that and tried to add a ribbon or some other embellishment, but every time I did, it took away from the focus of the card -- which was the embossed flower. So just use your imagination on what it what look like with an embellishment. For the triple embossing I used the Tulip, Oval Designer Frame, and Flower Garden Embossing Folders. I also used the Masking Technique (for a frame around the outside and oval in the middle) before stamping the background with the new Parlor Prints Background Stamp.

This was one of our Make'n Takes at Ronda's RubberQueen meeting last night: a telescope snowman card. I can't believe this is the first time I have made one -- so very cute!! This is actually one I made this morning because the one I made last night looked like I was drunk (his mouth and eyes -- LOL).

Here it is all opened up.

I just had to show you my yearling buck standing right outside my studio door one morning. It is not unusual for deer to be out there, but it is the first time I have gotten a good picture of a buck. The sun was starting to go down for the evening -- usually they are here during the morning. Click on the picture for a larger view -- he had all this fuzzy stuff on his antlers that I couldn't capture with my camera.

I received some awesome swap cards last night, and will be sharing some of those in my next update.

Until next time,
Sandi

"I have showed you kindness, that ye will also show kindness. . . . -- Joshua 2:12
"Help me make the most of all You've given me, Lord." -- Rick Hamlin

BODACIOUS BIRDHOUSES

2011-08-27T13:21:00.001-05:00

Well here it is, another week since I have posted! Seems like this is becoming a habit no matter how hard I try to update more frequently. I have worked in my studio every day this week (including this morning), and it seems like I am getting nowhere. I only have a week left and my granddaughter Holly, who is my official paid assistant now, will be going back to school. So I have been working her rear off this week. At first she refused to get paid for it, but after I explained that I would just have to pay somebody else and told her how much work she would be doing she finally relented. Thank goodness because I was feeling a little guilty after she helped me mount around 20 stamp sets one day last week. She has found out that she will never, ever make another flower again. She said there were just too many steps (and you know how picky and detailed I can get -- LOL). But she has learned tons of things, is very opinionated (like me), and has an attitude like me so we get along just fine. She did tell me to make sure I didn't tell her mom (Tricia) that she has fun every day she comes over here, as her mom thinks it is like a punishment and/or chaperon for her. She is old enough at 16 to watch herself, but doesn't always make good choices when she is left on her own. So she gets to do her favorite things when she is here: swimming; learning to stamp, sew, and cook; and go antique hunting with me. We have been having a blast this summer!! (Another reason I haven't been stamping as much.)

Now on the other hand, I have been working non-stop this whole week on "one" WOW project for Ronda Wade's upcoming Creative Convention (along with Holly's help). I did take a break for a couple of hours on Tuesday to make something for Ronda's Appreciation Event WOW table. I wanted to make these as soon as I saw it on Patty Bennett's blog. It was an Origami birdhouse, made by Myra Shaw, for Patty's Luv2Stamp Group. I thought it looked hard to make when I saw Myra's video (check it out HERE). But after making my first one, I couldn't believe how easy it was and helped Holly make two more. Here is what I ended up with:

Isn't it just the cutest!!! I used the Beau Chateau Designer Series Paper for this, along with the Bird Punch.

Holly made this one and the next one, using the Berry Blossoms Designer Series Paper.

Didn't she do a great job!!!

While Holly was making her 2 birdhouses, I made the inside cards for the sentiment. It just tucks right inside the birdhouse!!

This beautiful card was sent to me from my friend Linda Tarolli so I took it with me for the WOW table. Everybody loved how she popped up the punched flowers.

And finally, here is a card Holly made (in her free time -- LOL). She picked out her own stamps and did her own design so I didn't see it until she was done. Yes, it is a discontinued stamp but the sentiment is a sneak peek from the new Holiday Mini Catalog. I wish there wasn't an age limit on recruiting as I would be signing up Holly as a demonstrator today if I could!!!

Okay, it is back to work for me. No rest today as I have a couple things left on my "to do" list yet!!

Enjoy your weekend -- it is beautiful here!!
Sandi

"And He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in his paths. . . ." -- Micah 4:2
"How foolish I am, Lord, to think I know the way. Thank you for finding me whenever I'm lost. Amen." -- Phyllis Hobe

REMEMBER WHEN: HAVE A SEAT

2011-08-19T19:27:00.001-05:00

Hello Everybody!

Having a great day today! We finally have all of the house and outdoor electrical problems fixed from the lightening that struck on August 3 -- what a relief!! I could have actually stayed in my PJs today, as I was pretty sure I was not going to have any visitors (aka: repairmen). But I didn't, so guess it will be next Thursday before I might have a chance to stamp in my PJs all day.

I have been in mourning since Wednesday. I am grieving the loss of our two 30+ year-old Blue Spruce trees in our front yard that grew on both sides of the walk up to our front door. My husband planted these trees before we finished building our house, so they have really been "part of the family." I normally always go out and sit on the front porch when I first get up in the morning and have my first cup of coffee (my 2nd cup is when I am surfing blogs). I always watch the birds flying into their nests, the pigeons making a mess (yuk), and say my morning prayers every morning from that spot. Now I go out there and there is NOTHING!!! Its just me and the hummingbirds now -- all the other birds got mad and left. So yesterday I decided it would make me feel better if I made a sympathy card for myself and that is what I did. Plus, I wanted to get my "Remember When" cards out for this month and decided this would work for those cards also. The first thing that came to my mind was a card I had seen on Michelle Zindorf's blog almost a year ago -- I loved it the instant I saw it. (Who doesn't love all her cards!!). So I did a "total" CASE of her card (well somewhat -- I will never be a Michelle Zindorf). And here is my sympathy card to myself:

Please excuse the picture -- the colors are much brighter in person. Darn camera is not working!! Supplies used: Have A Seat and Thoughts and Prayers Stamp Sets; River Rock, Basic Black, and Whisper White Card Stock; River Rock, Sahara Sand, Basic Black, and Early Espresso Classic Ink; Sahara Sand and Crumb Cake Markers; Sponges; and Post-It Notes (Masking Technique).

I just changed the sentiment (using Elements in Style Stamp) on this version to send out as part of my "Remember When" project.

Thank you Michelle for letting me CASE your card. I thought it was perfect for my loss of 2 magnificant trees. In case you don't "get it" -- the empty 2-seat chair represents my two trees and the "starkness" of the room represents the emptyness left. I hope you like.

I will create a two-page album sample using the above card for my next blog update, as part of my "Remember When Card Versatility" project (go to my July post if you missed the information). I also started creating projects for a presentation at Ronda Wade's Creative Convention coming up next month (yes Tami, it takes me 2-months to prepare projects -- and I don't want to hear one giggle from you!). I can't show any of these until after the Convention, but I got the best compliment in the whole world the other day from my dear husband on the first project I completed. He told me it was the best piece of art he has ever seen of mine. Now I know, that statement can have a double meaning (think about it) -- but I decided it was a compliment and a big one because my husband doesn't throw them out very often. So really, am I not the "Queen for the Day"??? Don't worry, I'm not going to spoil my glory by telling you which one it is when I finally post my pictures, as beauty is after all in the eye of the beholder. Also, I don't want to hear any "what was he thinking" from anybody -- LOL.

Until next time, thanks for stopping by and have a great day!! Sandi

"A word of encouragement does wonders!" -- Proverbs 12:25
"In the hustle and bustle of daily living, it's so easy, Lord, to take one another for granted. Help me to remember that appreciation and words of encouragement do indeed work wonders, especially to my children." -- Fay Angus

ELIZABETH

2011-08-10T13:41:00.001-05:00

Hello my stamping friends!!

Yep, I'm back for the day (or at least right this moment). What a "ride" this last month has been. You already heard my "corn blasting story" and the need to remove everything from my house to clean out the "corn dust particles" in my last post. Worked right up to the moment my brother arrived from New Mexico (last Monday) for a family reunion picnic day at at my place last Wednesday. Two of my out-of-town sisters arrived the night before (last Tuesday), and all was going great until 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday (yep, the big day when everybody else was going to arrive).

At 2:30 a.m., I'm asleep with my sister out on our back porch couches when I was awoken by a big explosion and a flash of white light. I thought the windows (which cover all 3 walls on the porch) were blown up and my sister was sleeping right next to them. Woke her up with my scream to ask if she was okay and she thought I was crazy and just dreaming (I just don't know why people don't believe me). There were no lights and it was pitch dark, so I assumed that the storm had knocked out our power. I lay back down and started thinking, "why is the generator running and we still don't have any lights???" So woke my sister back up and she just said, "yep, that is strange, now go back to sleep." So I go outdoors to make sure it was the generator I am hearing, yep!! Go back in and trip over a bunch of stuff getting to my husband to wake up and he looks at me and says, "just go back to sleep, you are dreaming." Okay, so I say to myself, "I must be really going crazy." Next thing I know my husband must have thought about it and realized the generator was running, but we had no power and he got up and went outside. He turned the generator off and told me there was nothing he could do until morning so we all went back to bed. Got up the next morning, and walk out to the living room in my p.j.'s to see our electrician standing there (thank goodness, he has seen me in my p.j.'s before -- that is another long story). So let me cut to the chase: Our house was hit by lightening, or I should say the big Oak tree next to the pond was hit, traveled to the outdoor light and pond well pump (blew both of those up); traveled up to the back of the house into my basement studio, then over to the main power box where our power surge protector was (blew that up -- but saved us from tons more damage).

Ended up we started the picnic at 4 p.m., and had an awesome time with the family swimming and playing games (awesome food). They all left the next day (Thursday) except my brother who left yesterday. It was really great visiting with all of them and the kids, grandkids had a great time. As far as our damages; I still have no phone service (fried the outside phone box), our electrician is digging the ground right now to lay new wire to our pond well and outdoor light and plugs to our pond; 2 out of 6 TV's were fried; satillite dish, hotwater box, underground dog fence, 2 circuit breakers, wall plugs, and many electric wires were fried. But the Lord blessed us all by not having our house catch on fire or hitting anybody with lightening. Plus He showered us with memories and good times to last for a long time. What more can anyone ask for, thank you Lord!!! However, if anybody would like to come over and kidnap me I will pay them a couple of hundred to get me away from all the workmen coming every day.

So that is my story for today (and I'm stickin to it). I just know you were expecting a long post today because it has been over a week since I last posted. You also know that every day in my life has "excitement" in it -- so thank goodness I only told you about the major "excitement" -- trust me there was a lot more.

And of course, I need to reward you for reading this far (I hope), so here is a picture of a card I made to put with a gift for my Postmaster. She went above and beyond the call for me this week tracking a package. You don't find good customer service much any more, so when I do, I like to acknowledge with a thank you. Nothing fancy, just a quick card and some gift cards in a box to let her know she is appreciated.

You can hardly see in this picture (unless you click to enlarge), but I used one of the new embossing folders that will be in the Holiday Mini coming out September 1. So you are getting a sneek peek of the oval frame in the Textured Impressions Designer Frames (what a deal, you get two embossing folders). Also used: Elizabeth Stamp Set and my Personalized Stamp Set; Poppy Parade Card Stock and Stiched Poly Ribbon; and Paper Patterns In-Color Designer Series Paper Pack.

It was so simple, but looked so sweet when done -- hope you like.

Until next time,
Sandi
"And in Your name, I will lift up my hands." -- Psalm 63:4
Lord, thank you for watching over my family and blessing us with beautiful memories of times spent together. Create in me a contagious joy as I ride the unexpected turbulence of my days.

ESTABLISHED ELEGANCE

2011-07-31T14:12:00.001-05:00

This is your lucky day!!! Because I goofed off and went swimming in the pond all day yesterday, I am way behind on my schedule with tons of things to get done yet before my family gets here, so this is going to be short. In the process of cleaning up my studio this morning, I realized I had a scrap left over from my post the last time, so made another card before I took care of the materials. (At least that was my excuse.) So forgive the pattern because it is very close to my larger, long card before. Just used different stamps. Here is what I came up with:

The base of this card is Crumb Cake Card Stock, with the stamped panel also on Crumb Cake layered on Close to Navy, with a strip of punched Riding Hood Red Card Stock. The other panel is from the Well Worn Designer Series Paper (that was my left over from card before -- LOL -- my excuse to make a card this morning instead of working). I used the new Fancy Fan Letterpress Plate, inked with Very Vanilla Craft Ink. The panel is stamped with the Notable Ornate and new Established Elegance Stamp Sets. Watercolor Wonder Crayons and Distressing (Blue) Ink were used to color.

So there you have it, hope you like. I see there are around 10 people down in the pond, and here I am stuck in the house cleaning and baking. Oh well, I will play all next week.

Until next time,
Sandi
"Make me to know thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths." -- Psalm 25:4
"Heavenly Father, when a new path seems too steep for me, help me pause and listen for Your voice telling me whether to go ahead." -- Mary Brown

TIMELESS TREASURES

2011-07-23T21:51:00.001-05:00

Good Evening Everybody!!
I took the day off today from Spring cleaning (there is a method to my madness, just don't ask) to get my fingers inky. I was surprised when my granddaughter called early this morning to ask if she could come over to scrapbook and swim. Well, being as I already knew I was taking the day off, I told her to get herself over here so we could get started. She scrapbooked when she was younger, but is really starting from scratch almost because she is using the "best" product now. So yes, she had to be shown how to use SU's big cutter, Color Coach, and a few of their other tools. Before I was introduced to Stampin' Up, I already owned tons of product from that "other" company that doesn't sell stamps. However, I can't even get her to use it (and she used to love it) because none of the colors coordinate, they didn't have ribbon or any accessories, and after stamping cards with me for a couple of years she absolutely refuses to use "those stickers" from that company (I don't blame her, I wouldn't either -- no comparison with a piece of real rubber). I just look at all those thousands of dollars I spent on product from the other company (which at the time I thought was the best) and shake my head. The only thing I will use it for now is when the little ones come over and they want to "play" with crafts. Long story short, she ended up doing a beautiful 2-page spread with awesome Stampin' Up product, learned a lot, and was very happy.

So back to my original plan to create a card to update my sorry blog (don't worry, I will get back on a schedule again sometime). I didn't actually get to "really" work on it until after dinner because all I got done when my granddaughter was here was make decisions on my color scheme, designer paper, and stamp set. The layout of this card was inspired from a card my BFF sent me for my birthday. I actually saw it when I was at her house in Arizona last November, loved it, and asked her to send it to me for my birthday (only good friends can do that you know). So this is what I came up with, and I hope you love it as much as I do:

All Stampin' Up Product Used: Timeless Treasures and Notable Ornate Stamp Sets; Textured Basic Black, Crumb Cake, and Night of Navy Card Stock; Mocha Morning Speciality, First Edition Speciality, and Well Worn Designer Series Papers; Vintage Ink Distressing Essentials; Watercolor Wonder Crayons, Neutrals Button Collection; and Victoria 5/8" Crochet Trim Ribbon.

This was a fun card to make and I am so in love with the Mocha Morning Speciality Designer Paper. The flocking makes it look so rich, and of course, I love all vintage-looking designer paper!!!

Until next time,
Sandi
"And lead us not into temptation, but deliever us from evil. . . ." -- Matthew 6:13
"Lord, You bore the agony of the Cross for us. Have mercy on all who are in pain." -- Mark Collins

REMEMBER WHEN: SUNNY FUN

2011-07-09T21:07:00.000-05:00

Wow, I cannot believe it has been 2 weeks since I last posted. Talk about setting a record!!! The last two weeks have flown by -- busy, busy, busy. I did manage to get in a Scrapbook event the last week of June, put in some orders, and finally get a chance to stamp for myself a couple of times this week (very short times).

This last week has been a "week in a dust bowl." Usually every Spring we have something major done to our house to either update or just repair. Well early in March we contracted with a company in Wisconsin to come and restore our log house. Specifically to remove all the layers of paint to restore it back to its original log finish. No problem right? They come in, do their job, and it is done. Ha, ha the joke was on us; or me, specifically. My husband failed to mention to me that they would be "corn blasting" -- notice I did not say "water blasting" -- to remove the paint. And you know me -- the ditsy blond that I'm not -- I just figured that was a term they used in Wisconsin for water blasting. The 1st day I pulled my drapes so they couldn't spy in and didn't notice much, only that it was really noisy and seemed like it was foggy in the house (of course my husband said it was in my head). The 2nd day I decided to go downstairs to my studio to get away from the noise so I closed the patio doors to our 4-season porch because they were blasting the back of the house. Well I came up when my husband got home and opened the patio doors to go out on the porch and about had a heart attack. The entire room, going the length of our house was covered in a thick layer of corn dust!! I mean EVERYTHING!!! What is in the room: bookshelves loaded with books, DVDs, family videos, my sewing machine that was open, another antique sewing machine, TV, satellite dish, DVD player, speakers, tons of toys for little kids, 2 couches, table and chairs, popcorn maker, 5 quilts (it gets cold out there and the kids like to snuggle when watching TV), and lots of do-dads. I wanted to just close the door and hope the whole porch would fall in. That is when I found out 2 major things: "corn blasting" means fine-ground corn is used with the water blaster; and more important, "four-season room" means it is not well-insulated!!! Four hours later we had most of the top layer done but I will still have to take everything out again when they are done (hopefully in another week). The other rooms just need a good sweeping and waxing; along with washing all the bedding, curtains, etc. Now you know why I have not been around -- shouldn't even be here tonight, but a girl has to take a break. Plus the workers left to go home to their families until Monday, then they will be back. They really needed a break because they were here every morning at 7:30 or before and worked 12 hours every day with only a couple of 15 minute breaks.

MORAL OF THE STORY: "Corn Blasting" means exactly like it sounds!!

See what happens when I don't blog for 2 weeks -- you get a novel!! But I do have a couple of samples to show you. I completed my first set of cards to send out for my "Remember When" series. I talked about this in my June 12 blog. I used a card kit from Stampin' Up when they were offering their "grab bags." Some of the product is discontinued but I added current product to finish the card and album pages. The last pictures are my album pages I made with my card as an embellishment when scrapbooking (Card Versatility).

The cards feature the Summer Fun and Word Play Stamp Sets.

Same card kid just different design.

Card Versatility: My album pages (12 x 12) using one of the cards for an embellishment and the new Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper. I also used some discontinued Vintage Letters Rub-Ons. (Click on the picture to enlarge).

Close-up of left page.

Close up of right page.

I have one spot left to receive my Remember When cards, so leave me a comment and tell me why you would like to receive them, and I will pick a winner. (You might want to make sure your go back and read the first post so you have an idea of what I hope individuals will do with the cards.)

Until Next Time,
Sandi

"The birds of the air nest by the waters; they sing among the branches." -- Psalm 104:12
"Thank you, God for teachers who open our eyes to the beauty at our feet and the glory in the skies." -- Fred Bauer

FLOWERS & CACTI

2011-06-24T14:26:00.000-05:00

Have you had enough rain yet???? It's hard for me to decide because with all the rain, the tree foliage is so vibrant and full that I am nothing but mesmerized when I'm sitting here looking out my window. My laptop PC sits in front of a window looking out to the back yard and all the oak trees, the pond, and woods behind. This is one of my favorite spots to sit when I am in the house. My studio and PC is in the lower level of the house and we are on a hill so the view is gorgeous. I wish I could paint a picture or Stampin' Up would create an irregular oak tree stamp (you know, one of those big gnarly ones with all the imperfections). Boy oh boy, can you imagine all the different scenes you could create?

And that leads me into one of my pictures I'm showing today. This comes as no surprise to everybody that knows me, but I am known for killing all plants and flowers (i.e., I do NOT have a green thumb). That is why I love looking at trees obviously, but also why I buy so many flower stamps for my cards. I may not be able to grow them, but don't get me wrong, I love to look at them. All that being said, I can't believe that I have found a plant that I can't kill: CACTUS!!! One of my customer friends brought me a few pieces over, and I just dropped them in between rocks (no dirt added or anything) and they just stay alive. Don't ask me what they are called, because there is no reason for me to know the names of flowers/plants when I can't grow them - LOL. I am so proud of the fact the cacti are still alive that I had to share.

This same customer friend who gave me the cacti, gave me some pansies she had crocheted. For me, anything that is not Stampin' Up product (when crafting), can be duplicated. I told her that SU sold beautiful crochet flowers and they could be colored to match our card stock, and promised I would do this technique to show her the effect. So one of the cards uses her hand-made pansy and the other is Stampin' Ups'. This is just to show you how awesome they are and how Stampin' Up makes it easy to shop for all your crafting needs in one place (one-stop shopping).

This is the flower my friend crocheted that I used with Stampin' Up product (see below). The colors came out beautiful with my Classic Ink Refills.

This is the same card with different colors using the following product: Happy Greetings and Flower Fancy Stamp Sets; Daffodil Delight, Concord Grape, Melon Mambo, and Whisper White Card Stock; Concord Grape, Daffodil Delight, and Perfect Plum Classic Stamp Re-inkers; Aqua Pen; Always Artichoke, Concord Grape, and Old Olive Classic Ink; Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon; Fleurettes II, and Big Shot Top Note Die.

And here are my cacti just starting to bloom. Today there are many more that have opened up, but as usual, too much rain so I couldn't get a picture. If anybody knows the name of this plant/cactus, please leave me a comment and let me know what it is.

This is a close-up of one flower. Isn't it beautiful. I can't even believe that it is growing in my rocks and isn't even in the ground. Plus, they are still alive after more than 2 years. So there is hope for me!!!

Have a wonderful weekend (even tho I believe it is suppose to rain both days)!

Sandi
"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." -- Ephesians 4:32
"Lord, let the power of forgiveness be at work in my life today and always." -- Eric Fellman

MORE FATHER'S DAY

2011-06-18T19:11:00.001-05:00

Hello all!! Thought I would just jump in with a quick update tonight to show you one of a couple of cards I made tonight for Father's Day tomorrow. I decided I did not want my son-in-law's to feel neglected because I make my daughters Mother's Day cards, so after dinner I thought I better get busy. I could not use any of the new nautical stamp sets or embellishments because my daughters already made a lot of cards using those product for Father's Day. Of course, I did get to use it for my husband's card (previously shown). So I decided I better not trust my memory as to what I have given them before (good thing huh?) and did a design I have never tried and a stamp I have never used.

Yes, the products used (stamps and designer paper) will be retired at the end of the month (another reason you should buy it before it is gone). I have wanted to do an origami (sure am glad spell check caught my spelling error on this word, I almost had an x-rated post) shirt for years, just never got around to it, so it was really fun doing these cards. And I'm ashamed to admit how easy it was. Yes, even with the kids coming over to swim and me taking a break with them, it probably took me 15 minutes total to do a few of these cards (most of that was deciding what designer paper I was going to use -- decisions, decisions!!). I will definitely be doing this in a class, I know the ladies would love it -- anything fast and easy is loved.

So here it is:

Yes Tami, I thought of you the whole time I was doing this card (black and white/vanilla only). Kinda crazy with all the patterns but I like it and this is the way men dress anyway as they don't have a clue when it comes to not putting stripes with patterns together. Actually I think anything goes in today's world. Products used: All Holidays and Smarty Pants Stamp Sets; Love Letter Designer Series Paper; Very Vanilla Card Stock; Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder; and Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch.

I am going to sooooo miss my Smarty Pants stamp set. I have used it for so many different occasions and totally love the sayings. Of course this is one that I will keep forever, so you better get yours before it is gone forever at the end of the month (mine will never go on sale no matter what someone wants to pay for it).

Enjoy your time tomorrow celebrating Father's Day, until next time,
Sandi

"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. . . ." -- Romans 12:6

CARDS, CARDS, CARDS

2011-06-12T14:57:00.000-05:00

Do you ever wonder (especially if you are a demonstrator) what to do with all those cards you have accumulated (from swaps, card class samples, presentations, etc.)? Of course we all send out tons of cards through the year for special occasions, etc.; but, I still have tons left over. I've been saying for years that I should sell some, but I just don't do it. I always think it is not worth the work involved, nobody will buy, I don't feel it's right, and the list goes on and on. So a couple of days ago I came up with this brainstorm of an idea when I was working on my heritage album.

Everybody knows that the most important thing we can give to our children is love. (No, that wasn't part of my brainstorm.) Besides monetary things like food and housing, second on my list would be teaching them about how to live and providing them with memories. These two things include many things you do on a daily basis. But why not include our knowledge and memories with something we love to do: STAMPING!! So here is what I am going to do for at least the rest of the year -- not only for my family but my friends.

I will be sending out "Remember When" cards on no specific date or time -- just at least once a month to many people. My "Remember When" cards will include a printed note telling them about a memory we shared or one that I or my ancestors had when growing up. In my first card to that person, I will tell them that they will be getting these cards throughout the year, and that I hope they will create a scrapbook using their cards and "Remember When" stories on their album pages. If I have a picture, I will include that with the card. How awesome that would be to create a heritage album based on actual stories from the past. This will be especially important for my children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews because they are always asking me questions about their family heritage, or what it was like when I grew up (I know, that is not the "norm" for kids, but I guess my personality has rubbed off on them more than I thought). Actually, my mother passed it on to me and my siblings so they would love to do this too. It also helps because most of my family has scrapbook albums. I would love to get a handmade card in the mail with a "Remember When" story -- wouldn't you???? I will keep you posted on how this works out, but wanted to share my idea to all those that love to pass on memories. After all, memories teach us so much about life and values on how to live, plus they can pass them on to their family.

Okay, this is about the most serious post that you will ever read of mine again so don't start thinking it will continue. What will continue is pictures of my projects. So with that in mind, here are some pictures of my thank you gifts this month for my customers. These were so fun and fast to make. I got the pattern measurements from Holly Krautkremer if you would like to check it out.

I used the Two Tags Bigz and Fun Flowers Bigz L Dies for the boxes, that were embossed with the Elegant Bouquet Textured Impressions Embossing Folder.

The gift tags for inside the box were made with the same Big Shot Dies.

And you thought I was going to posts lots of cards, didn't you!!! Sorry about that, but I will next time.

Until then,
Sandi

"He has made everything beautiful in its time. . . ." -- Ecclesiastes 3:11
"Every day is a gift, Lord, each moment a treasure, give us eyes to see beauty, hearts to hug pleasure." -- Fred Bauer

FATHER'S DAY AND MORE

2011-06-08T12:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, I know you are all wondering what is more important in my life than updating my blog? I hate to let you down, but there really has been a lot going on that was more important. This is always the busiest time of the year for me with birthdays, dinners, and cleaning inside and out. And before you ask; yes, stamping is more fun than all of those things but a girl has to get the "obligatory" jobs done so she can make others happy. For those of you with husbands, you know how important it is to keep them happy so they don't feel neglected when you stamp every day in your life (sometimes for me it is the whole day long!!). So there is a method to my madness, as I think anybody who does those mundane/obligatory jobs has to have a very big reason!

Trust me, I have been stamping a lot this last week but couldn't quite fit in the time to update my blog. I'm going to get back on schedule by posting at least twice a week. If I start to fall off, please leave me a comment and tell me to "make time."

Today I am going to post the last two cards from my stamping event last month. I made both of these cards at Ronda Wade's last Baggie Book event featuring product from the Summer Mini Catalog. I loved them so much that I added them to my card event. Everybody totally loved them, especially the bleaching technique used on the "Sail Away" card. The first card below is my swap card from last night's RubberQueen meeting. I can't wait to show you Ronda's make'n take cards we made at the meeting -- but you are going to have to wait because we used all new product featured in the "2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalog." I don't like showing product before it is released because it takes away the joy and surprise (plus, I feel like it is old before it even comes out). So make sure you stop back, as I have some really good posts coming up.

Watercolor Crayons swap card product used: Happiness Shared Stamp Set; Wild Wasabi, Melon Mambo, Pretty In Pink, Garden Green, and Watercolor Cardstock; Watercolor Wonder Crayons (cardstock colors and Rose Red, Chocolate Chip, Always Artichoke, Basic Gray, Crumb Cake, and River Rock); Pearls; and Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch.

Father's Day Card products used: The Open Sea and Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Sets; Not Quite Navy, Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake Card Stock and Classic Inks; Very Vanilla Card Stock; Baker's Twine, Square Lattice Textured Impressions Folder; and Sponge.

Sail Away Birthday Card products used: Sail Away, Sanded, and Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Sets; Basic Black and Marina Mist Card Stock; Whisper White Craft and Versamark Ink; Black Embossing Powder; Neutrals Brads; Hemp Twine; Distressing Essentials Kit (Precision File).

Well I guess it is time for me to get some "wifely" duties done, as I am expecting company and probably should at least get dressed now that it is after 1 p.m. and I am still in my PJs (aaah, I live such a hard life).

Until next time (when I hope to have a very interesting post for you).
Sandi

"He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge. . . ." -- Isaiah 33:6

"When we are puzzled Lord, and wonder why, assure us we'll know in the sweet by and by." -- Fred Bauer

ICE CREAM PARLOR 6" X 6" ALBUM

2011-05-29T13:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Sunday Everybody!
Gosh, where did the month of May go? It certainly didn't pass by fast because of me working outside. I even had to pull some weeds a couple of days ago in the rain because I couldn't stand them any longer. The sun is really trying hard to pop out today, so we do have something in Michigan to be happy about -- no rain, and "some" sunshine. However, I do have to admit that while typing this post, I am looking out the window into my back yard/woods and don't think I have ever seen the trees, grass, and foliage look so full and awesome with the different shades of green. I did finally turn the pond well pump on yesterday to start filling it up (usually it is full before Memorial Day weekend). With all the rain this season however, the water level did go up about 3-4 feet so it saved on running the pump (aka: running up the electric bill). Yep, I am so ready to spend time outdoors in the sun!!!

As all of you know, this is National Scrapbooking Month (at least for 2 more days anyway). And yes, I did do some scrapbooking but not with current Stampin' Up product. Well, actually it was current when I started -- during the yearly Stampin' Up Sale-A-Bration Event. So I thought I better post some scrapbooking before the month is over (yep, yep -- better late than never, that would be me). I CASEd this entire album (20 pages) from Ronda Wade's March Retreat (album class). I'm not sure if Ronda or Melissa Roberts did the design, but know for sure they both worked on it. I did change quite a few pages, so it is a little different. Either way, all kudos go to Ronda and Melissa. I hope you like it, and remember these layouts will look awesome with any of the Stampin' Up Designer Series Paper.

Sorry about the glare in all these pictures, but I was in a hurry to get this in the mail the day I took them so they are still in their page protectors. Remember that you can click on any of these pictures to enlarge to get a better view of the accessories.

I used the Ice Cream Parlor Designer Series Paper & Quick Accents and Ribbon & Button Pack on all the pages (free Sale-A-Bration product).

I had a really hard time not keeping this album for myself, but I will make a 12" x 12" album for myself using the same layouts.

I love going to Ronda and Melissa's Scrapbooking Retreats for many reasons, and taking their classes are always a highlight of the event. The next one is scheduled for October, so if you are in the East Lansing, Michigan area make sure you sign up -- you won't be disappointed!!

Until next time,
Sandi
"Set your affection on things above, not on things on the Earth." -- Colossians 3:2
"Father, thanks for showing me that letting go of old things can bring new rewards." -- Libbie Adams

LOVELY LETTERS GIFT BOX WITH CARDS

2011-05-23T20:04:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday!!

Is it too late to post my Mother's Day gifts??? Probably so, but the good news is you can use this gift for any time of the year -- just change the Designer Series Paper. Yes, my DSP was current when I made these -- just forgot to post. This idea was totally CASEd from Ronda Wade and I fell in love with it immediately and had to share. My customers also got to make the DVD gift box this weekend at my card event, as my gift to them for being such loyal customers. They ended up loving my cards so much they wanted to pay more for their regular class so they could make them also. So they ended up with their regular 8 cards, plus the gift box and four monogrammed cards and envelopes to store inside.

We had one of the best classes ever (for me anyway, and I think them also). It was such a beautiful day outside that we sat out on my patio and chatted for a half-hour before I said they needed to get started. The rest of the morning continued on the same vein: lots of laughter, sharing secrets, and learning new stamping techniques (I even learned a couple of new things). So I guess you want to see something, but you will have to wait until my next post to see their cards. I wanted to just showcase the gift box and cards today. I couldn't make up my mind what picture to show, so you are going to get a bunch. Thank you Ronda for such an awesome idea!!

Product Used: Clear-Mount Stamp Cases; Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper (Occasions Mini - Discontinued); Rose Red 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon; Lovely Letters Alphabet, Four Frames; and Share What You Do (Limited Edition 2010 Stampin' Up Convention Theme Stamp) Stamp Sets; Trinket Keys; Night of Navy Card Stock; and Scalloped Circles #2 Bigz Big Shot Die.

Close-up of one of the gift card boxes.

Another close up -- different color designer series paper and stamp.

Monogrammed cards inside of gift box (4 cards and 4 envelopes)

I made 5 of these for Mother's Day gifts in honor of my mother who passed away over 5 years ago. I give them away as gifts because I know my mother would have truly, truly loved to have gotten one of these from me as she loved to send cards with notes. It makes me happy just writing this because I know she is right here with me shaking her head "yes."

Until next time,
Sandi
"When we love each other God lives in us and his love within us grows ever stronger." -- 1 John 4:12
"Lord help me to accept that my ways may not be others' ways." -- Patricia Lorenz

GRADUATION & BIRTHDAY

2011-05-19T10:52:00.001-05:00

Wow, I just looked at the clock and can't believe my morning is just about over and I still have about 12 hours of work yet to do! So what in the heck am I doing updating my blog? I guess just because it has been a week and I didn't want you to forget me. Oh yes, I have been working up a storm for a month now but just haven't had time to post. Some of my projects are now discontinued (or in dormant stage I hope), but I will be showing these to you hopefully before the month is over.

Today I am showing two birthday and graduation cards. Both of the designs are the same but switched up the colors and/or layout. I could make another contest out of this to see if somebody can guess all the slight differences between the two cards. They used to do that in the People Magazine all the time, and they still might but I haven't read one in a couple of years. I always loved playing it, as I do any game. Anyway, I have to get back to work so here are my cards:

Birthday Card for my grandson featuring: The Open Sea and Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Sets; Nautical Expedition Designer Series Paper; and Distressing Tool Kit.

Slightly different version using some different accessories.

Graduation Card featuring: Word Play, Go Graduate (discontinued), and Something To Celebrate (Occasions Mini) Stamp Sets; Owl Punch; and Tasteful Trim Big Shot Bigz XL Die.

Same card, just a few differences.

So there you have it for today. I have classes all weekend, but hope to update again by Monday -- or maybe sooner if I have extra time (that "CAN" happen you know).
Until next time,
Sandi
"Your word, O Lord, is eternal. . . . Your faithfulness continues through all generations. . . . -- Psalm 119:89-90

FABULOUS FLORETS AGAIN!!

2011-05-12T10:44:00.000-05:00

Yes, Fabulous Florets is my new "in" stamp set for this month. I can't help it. I love Stampin' Ups' stamp sets because you get so much all in one package. This one in particular has two types of stamps in one set: bold and outline. Plus you get a sentiment. I could go on and on about how fabulous the quality, style, and designs are, but most of you that visit my blog already know there is not another brand out there that even comes close to giving you all this, plus keeping the prices below what you pay anywhere else. I love "win-win" situations!!!

Today I'm going to show you what it is like in my world when I try to come up with a card design -- please don't laugh! I hate even confessing to how long it takes me after watching my fellow RubberQueens stamp a card in 5 minutes and it's ready to slip in the mail. The only time I am able to do this is when I am watercoloring with my crayons or doing a vintage card. However, there just might be a couple of you out there hiding in the closet like me, and I want you to know there is someone else who has a difficult time coming up with a design. My challenge to you is to come out of the closet and post pictures of your "out-takes." Yesterday, I sat down and tried making my "out-takes" into some sort of a card. So here goes:

This is the actual design I ended up swapping at the RubberQueen meeting. I first did the embossed resist technique using our new Wild Wasabi and Tangerine Tango Embossing Powders, then brayed with Marina Mist Classic Ink. I then dry embossed using the new Flower Garden Textured Impressions Embossing Folder and then sanded the embossed image using SU's Sanding Block to bring out the Whisper White Card Stock used for this layer.

I fixed this "throw-away" this morning by adding some of the new Beyond the Garden Designer Series Paper to cover up my boo-boo on bottom. I also added the sentiment from the Cute by the Inch Hostess Level I Stamp Set, and used some Pacific Point Classic Ink on the background. This ended up being my favorite card (wish I would have thought of doing this for the swap!).

I believe this was my 2nd try at trying to figure out what I was going to do for my swap -- didn't like!

This was my 1st try -- YIKES!!! Yep, that is a lot of Tempting Turquoise and Daffodil Delight Classic Ink going on there!!!

This was my 4th try -- which is very similar to final. I decided I didn't want the sentiment on the card and switched out the Tempting Turquoise for the Marina Mist Classic Ink.

And I can't leave you without showing you this darling treat box/purse Ronda Wade demonstrated at her meeting. Sorry, Ronda, for cutting off your head; but you would not let me take another picture. At least I got your beautiful smile!!

So that's it for today. Enjoy our beautiful weather and have a great weekend!

Until next time,
Sandi
"There is no feat in love, but perfect love casteth out fear. . . ." -- I John 4:18
"Jesus, when I'm afraid, help me submit my fears to Your love." -- Julia Attaway

FLOWER FEST WITH MESSAGES FOR MOM

2011-05-06T11:46:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday Everybody!!

Two days of sun!! I can hardly stand it. The trees have tiny leaves on them, my flowers are up high, and there are dandelions in the yard!!! I have had lots of different things going on since my last post. I had so much fun making cards at Ronda Wade's Summer Mini PJ Event. And no, it ended up I couldn't wear my pajamas because I had to stop at the store on the way there. I was a half-hour late, making poor Ronda worry sick as I am always the first one to arrive (I thought it started at 6:30, but it was 6 p.m.). So she helped me catch up. We made baggie books again, featuring 4 new stamps and product from the Stampin' Up Summer Mini Catalog. We ended up with 20 beautiful cards that I will be CASEing many times over for sure. Then to top my night off, I got lost twice on the way home (mind you, I only had about 10 miles to drive at the max). It wasn't so bad because I expected it would happen when I saw I couldn't go back the same way, as the road was closed. I have taken different routes many times, but for some reason it felt and looked entirely different at 10:30 p.m. (in pitch black darkness). So I just kept driving around in circles until I found my way. I never get upset or freaked out when I get lost because it happens all the time and I have a compass in my SUV (didn't take my GPS of course).

Today I want to show you my Mother's Day card I made yesterday using the new Flower Fest Stamp Set in the Summer Mini. My mom passed away 5 years ago, but I honor her by making cards for my daughter's instead as they are mother's and need kudos also. I didn't think I would like this stamp set as it is so different from what I typically buy. However, I can't resist stamp images that you can use with our punches. I ended up loving the card, what do you think:

Product Used: Flower Fest and Messages for Mom Stamp Sets; Daffodil Delight, Early Expresso, Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, and Shimmer White Card Stock; Bold Brights Brads (Daffodil Delight); Basic Pearl; Tangerine Tango, Melon Mambo, and Wild Wasabi Embossing Powders; BIGZ L Petal Cone Big Shot Die; and various punches.

I've been doing a lot of stamping the last couple of weeks, but mostly trying to catch up on my stacks and stacks of discontinued half-started projects. I have so many card designs cut and packaged left over from the last 3-4 years (yes, I can't believe it either). So my goal this Summer is to get all these cards completed. I did about 40 so far (just a drop in the bucket). These cards were "fix-up" cards and/or precut cards that needed to be assembled featuring the discontinued Watercolor Trio Stamp Set (which I so wish would have been carried over to the new catalog), discontinued Cottage Wall Designer Series Paper, and some current product. Even if you do not own this discontinued product, I wanted to post pictures because I loved the designs and knew it would be easy to substitute with any stamp set you might have on hand.

I hope all of you have a beautiful Mother's Day, even if you are not a mother, I'm sure you have served as a fill-in mother (which is even better yet). Personally I think everyday should be Mother's Day, but then it probably wouldn't be as special if we celebrated every day. Thanks for stopping by.

Until next time,
Sandi
"As a mother comforts her child, so shall I you. . . ." -- Isaiah 66:13

FABULOUS FLORETS MEETS NATURE WALK

2011-04-29T08:40:00.002-05:00

Happy Royal Wedding Day All!

Okay, I was up at 4:30 a.m. this morning (yes, I overslept a little), to see probably my last Royal Wedding. It was well worth the early morning, who doesn't love a fairytale. I was sad and happy at the same time. Sad that Princess Diana was not there physically to be with her son when he get married, and happy for the new bride and groom, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Every once in a while you would catch a glimpse of Princess Diana in Prince William, as when he gave the shy sideways glance with his eyes looking up. Don't you just love fairytales!! And didn't you just love the beautiful hats worn by the ladies. I always seem to buy new hats when I am in a new store or traveling, but then end up only wearing them once. But I love them, and think we should go back to wearing them all the time (I'm ashamed to admit that when I was much, much younger, this was the highlight of going to church; to wear a new hat and see what others would wear).

Prince William just kissed his new bride, so I guess I need to get going to start my day. Seems kind of stupid but I need to take a shower and then put on clean pajamas so I can go to a PJ party tonight. Yep, even old folks have PJ parties if they are a RubberQueen. Thank you Ronda for keeping us young, and including a stamping night at the same time. Tonight we will be doing 5 new baggie books to showcase the new 2011 Stampin' Up Summer Mini Catalog. Woohoo, can't wait.

Here is a new card featuring a sneak peek at one of the new stamps in the Simmer Mini catalog, the Fabulous Florets Stamp Set. What an easy stamp set to use, with bold and line stamps all in one set. I also used two stamps (the bird and butterfly) from the current Nature Walk Stamp Set, which you can still get until tomorrow. I stamped the green foliage in Old Olive Classic Ink, and watercolored the rest of the images using Stampin' Ups Wonderful Water Color Crayons before cutting them out. My main crayon colors for the flowers were Melon Mambo, Regal Rose, Cajun Craze, and Daffodil Delight. The bird was done in the Baja Breeze, Daffodil Delight, Basic Gray, Early Espresso, Soft Suede, Sahara Sand, and Basic Black Watercolor Crayons. And finally the butterfly was done in Baja Breeze and Pacific Point Watercolor Crayons. The first picture is my completed card that was done first. Then I went back and decided to see if I could fix a Whisper White panel I had started on my first try, but got smudges on the foliage from my hand and threw away (don't you just hate when you do that!!). Later I pulled it out of the trash and decided to see if I could salvage. So the second card is my "fixed" version of my "throwaway" -- I think it was worth fixing up. My inspiration for this card came from a very old "store-bought" card that I had kept because I loved the flowers and bird -- how about you???

My first card.

This is my "fix-up" card -- do you think it is good enough to send???

Some unfinished business: the answer to my previous post: baby mice!!! How sick, sick, sick!! She had to buy them for my granddaughter's pet snake's food. And Tamie Ackerson thinks she has problems with all her pets!! I will never look at a snake again without thinking about those baby mice.

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog; and for those of you that take time to leave a comment, you make my day by giving me feedback and letting me know who belongs to those "numbers." Sometimes I get comments from people named "anonymous" and I feel bad because I cannot acknowledge your comment. So if your comment has the your name posted as "anonymous," I would love it if you signed your name and (if you like/can), provide your e-mail address, and blog address. I love to visit the blogs of people who comment.

Sandi
(I thought the following verse appropriate to remember based on my fetish for hats. I'll try to do better Lord.)

“Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel – rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.” -- 1 Peter 3:3-4

BIRTHDAYS AND FLOWERS

2011-04-21T19:11:00.001-05:00

I know you won't believe this, but it has been so long since I have posted that I can't think of anything bright and intelligent to pass on and make it worthwhile for you stopping by my blog. Normally I'm so intelligent with all this great information and exciting things that happen in my life that I could write a book. My only excuse is that I have been in "birthday" mode for the last two weeks. And probably will be until the first week in June. However, I will promise (in writing) right now, that I will do something fantastic to share by this time next week. I know I will be stamping a lot because I have many more cards to make and am working on finishing an album tonight.

I did throw an awesome double birthday party for my two youngest daughters on Monday (it was suppose to be Sunday, but all of the family members took part in the 5K Race for Cure breast cancer fundraiser). Absolutely too cold for me, plus I was cooking all day. My girls put in their birthday dinner orders and this is what I made:

A pork roast and 2 beef roasts (they all wanted leftovers to take home).
Homemade egg noodles in gravy (just thinking about this makes me bloat up!!).
Homemade biscuits.
Mashed potatoes (about 5+ pounds).
Fresh steamed broccoli.
Fancy salad with stuff in it that I don't like (green onions and Feta cheese).
Light hors d'oeuvres of fresh pineapple and cantaloupe (which they devoured so they couldn't take any home).
Two homemade (that's from "scratch" folks) cakes (one for each birthday girl) -- this request is on all my kids/grandkids list this year. You would think they never get homemade food, when I know for a fact both my daughters make everything from scratch and a lot healthier food than I make.
And of course ice cream (no it was not homemade, as grandpa wasn't in the mood to make it -- has to be hot outside he said).

They all stuffed themselves and gave me all kinds of kudos (they know they better by now or it won't happen again). And after talking about all that food, I have to tell you what my daughter (Trisha of course) brought over for cake decorations. She hands me this sack and said it was for the top of the cake. So I open it up and inside is this baggie and I look at it closely, then screamed and threw it in her face. It was so very disgusting -- you will never in a million years guess what was in the bag. As a matter of fact, it is so disgusting I am going to let you guess. Another one of those posts to check to see if you have read this far -- LOL.

Huh, for somebody that didn't have anything to say, I still managed to write a chapter in a book!! I'm sorry I don't have a card to show you, but I can show you some birthday party pictures and a picture of "one" of my Big Shot flowers I made for table favors (another thing the girls have been bugging me to make for them). I made four identical flowers that can serve as either a hair decoration or pin (I put a barette and pin on the backs). I found four vintage buttons that belonged to my grandmother that matched perfectly.

Here is my granddaughter, Holly, with her flower. I made them in the same colors as one I did for Holly last month for a gift for a friend of hers and she had told me then that she wanted another one just like it for her.

Here is Holly's older sister, Emily, with her flower. Must have been steamy in the room as my camera lens had moisture on it.

Here is a close-up of Holly.

My daughter Tricia, in the middle of her daughters.

My middle daughter, Deborah, with her youngest son/my grandson, Nicholas. You probably can't tell in this picture but his cousin Holly got the same eye glasses as he did.

Birthday girls with their cakes -- the table looks so bare after removing all the food. You will note that Deborah (on right) has tissue in her ears because Tricia gets so excited and loud on her birthday (wonder where she gets that from).

And of course, we have Holly again who takes right after her mother and great-grandmother (notice I skipped a generation). She loves to take pictures of herself just like her mom. I couldn't figure out why she was spending so much time in my bathroom. Of course I found out the next day on Facebook when I saw all these pictures.

Okay, there you have it -- a day in my life with my family doing what I love to do the most -- celebrating!! Don't forget to guess what was in the bag my daughter brought over to put on the cake. I will give you one other hint (besides the fact that I screamed). The contents were pink.

Until next time,
Sandi
"And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. . . ." -- Luke 22:44
"Jesus, lead me to pray passionately in the midst of anguish, knowing that in prayer I grasp the hand that pulls me up to You." -- Carol Knapp

BIRTHDAY BAKERY

2011-04-16T06:10:00.000-05:00

It's birthday time today folks!! No, it is not my birthday. However, it seems like Spring is a very popular time in my family for babies to be born. All of my girls, most of my grandchildren, and the majority of my siblings were all born during March, April, May, and June. So there are tons of parties going on that is for sure. I remember when my youngest daughter was born, Tricia, and having to sit in the hallway with her after she was born because there were no rooms available. One of the nurses told me that the month of April is always their busiest month for births. So do the math and it becomes very obvious as to why. Could it be because my husband and I always went on vacation in July (and back in those days, most family vacations were in July)? Lots of free time and relaxation? Hmmm, something to think about I guess.

Obviously, I have been doing a lot of birthday cards. So today I'm sharing another birthday card with you. Very simple, no frills card but very yummy!

Oh yah!! Don't you just want to dig into all that chocolate!! Stampin' Up product used: "Birthday Bakery Stamp Set;" Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip, and Very Vanilla Cardstock; "Sweet and Sour Speciality Designer Paper;" Markers; Decorative Label and Scallop Trim Border Punches; Matchbox Bigz XL Big Shot Die; Neutrals Brads; and discontinued Masterpiece Ribbon Originals.

Here is what the inside looks like (the designer paper on the right bottom does not belong there; I was just covering up my writing as I didn't take a picture before I wrote inside). The birthday cake is from the "Bring On The Cake Stamp Set" (in the Occasions Mini Catalog).

So there you have it, and now I am off to make some party favors for my girls!! Have a wonderful weekend everybody.

Sandi
"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. . . ." -- Psalm 139:14
"Lord, may I use my birthday to celebrate the person You created me to be." -- Carol Kuykendall

BUILD A BLOSSOM: WEEK #10 CHALLENGE

2011-04-12T00:01:00.035-05:00

Hello stampers!

It's time to play Try Stampin' On Tuesday using Week #10's sketch. I only had a couple of hours today to play so don't be too harsh on me. I knew what I wanted to do with this sketch as soon as I received it from CherylAnn, but then at the last minute today, I decided to change the flower I was going to use. This will probably be the last time I use the Build a Blossom Stamp Set for a while as we only have a couple more weeks to order from the Occasions Mini. So if you want this fabulous stamp set with the punch and Big Shot Die, let me know or order directly from my link on the left. I'm so hoping it will be carried over to the new catalog in July, but you just never know.

So this is what I came up with for your inspiration this week:

This is a 5 1/4" x 5 1/4" square card, using all Stampin' Up product:

Build A Blossom, Bring On The Cake, En Français, and Sanded Stamp Sets; Level 1 Hostess In-Color Designer Series Paper Patterns Pack; Poppy Parade, Sahara Sand, Not Quite Navy, and So Saffron Classic Ink and Cardstock; White Craft Ink; White and Iridescent Ice Embossing Powders; Fun Flowers Bigz L Die; and 1" Circle Punch.

Here is CherylAnn's Try Stampin' On Tuesday Sketch #10

I have a busy weekend coming up celebrating and taking a few minutes to be sad. Everybody will be over for Sunday dinner to celebrate two of my daughters' birthdays. I will be taking a few minutes feeling sad (that's all I will allow myself), because my "baby" is turning 40 (actually yesterday was her birthday, but I am trying to add a couple of days to be in denial). Very hard to believe because in my mind I remember every second of their births like it was yesterday. Okay, that was one-minute out of my "few" so I am going to stop before I have to hunt up the Kleenix! (If you ask me how old my first born is, I'm just going to say "I don't know" so don't bother!)

Don't forget to click on this link to enter into this week's challenge!!

Until Next Time,
Sandi
"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." -- Romans 10:17
"Spirit of Truth, as I read the Bible, help me to find the Word within the words, and be open to the adventure of God's transforming power." -- Andrew Attaway

USING UP THROW-AWAYS!!

2011-04-07T20:10:00.002-05:00

Hi Everybody!

This is going to be my quick Thursday night post so I'm not even going to tell you about the trash going on in my life right now (lucky you, huh!). Like all trash though, I just toss it out and then have a good laugh. You have no idea how hard it is for me not to tell you all about my adventures the last three days. Something exciting happens to me every day. (Note: Your definition of excitement might be different than mine however.) For example, trying to run through my patio door when it is closed is exciting for me -- and this usually happens a couple times a month. Man, that is hard on the nose and sometimes the stars I see in my eyes are the colors of Baha Breeze, Rose Red, and Almost Navy (my favs!). The doctor has told me I will probably be on my blood pressure pills for the rest of my life unless I cut down on my excitement. I told her that would only happen if I grew 6 inches (according to her chart, I am not tall enough for my weight).

Okay, moving right along, today I did a card using up an image that I had watercolored, with SU's Watercolor Wonder Crayons, about 3-4 weeks ago. I didn't like it and was going to throw away (I smudged a little of the black StazOn ink when stamping). I came across it when I was cleaning my desk and thought maybe it didn't look as bad as I thought. So I came up with a whole new layout using a fold that I have done many times but never with it opening in this direction. I ended up really liking it, mostly because it was different and gave me the opportunity to try a completely different layout. So here it is:

It doesn't look like it in this picture, but I believe this is called either a Z-Fold or Joy Fold card.

This is how it looks when sitting on table.

Side view showing the folds.

Picture of the inside of card.

Close up of the flower made out of nylon panties (LOL -- just for you Tamie), and cut with the new Fun Fold Bigz L Big Shot Die. (The leaves are from the Bird Punch with a little free-hand lines drawn using Always Artichoke Marker).

I know it is a little boring looking at an image I had stamped previously, but I really loved how this card turned out and wanted to share (it is going to a very special person). I hope you like it as much as I do.

Until next time,
Sandi
"For he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness . . .." -- Joel 2:13

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY CHALLENGE #9: SILHOUETTE SENTIMENTS

2011-04-04T00:01:00.010-05:00

Good Morning America!!
Did you miss me??? Well, I missed hearing from all of you. I guess the moral of the story is if you don't "feed" your viewers with some art than you shouldn't expect to hear anything. Yah, yah I know that is how it works but it would be nice for somebody to just drop in and say, "Hey girl, I'm missing you so get off your duff and post something new." To be honest with you that is exactly what I have been doing -- nothing!! Well almost nothing, I started the week off by finally doing my taxes. Oh my gosh, I about fell out of my chair at what I had to pay. Nobody told me I would get taxed on my Social Security!! Dah, I should have known that the government takes their 3rd out of "everything." Stupid me, I thought that was all taken care of when I was working. So not only did I get a whopping amount due, but had to pay a penalty and have to start making quarterlies (pretty sad when I have never had to pay in my entire life, and then it is after I retire). Oh well, what can you do but move on and feel blessed that I didn't have to take out a loan -- LOL.

I also updated my Automated Excel Workshop Forms with all the new 2011 Summer Mini Catalog items and posted it on Splitcoast. So if you want an updated version, go to Splitcoast or leave me a comment requesting a copy. And I spent a little time doing some organizing in my studio -- a never-ending job for all of us, but something I love to do, as I find all these treasures that I forgot I owned. All in all, it was a great relaxing week. I knew I would need it, because the rest of the month will be busy, busy, busy. I have tons of birthdays to celebrate (my girls, grandchildren, family), so lots of cards to make, shopping, and dinners to make.

And of course, I did my Try Stampin' On Tuesday inspiration card and a few birthday cards for family that I can't show you right now. Here is what I came up with for inspiration using this week's sketch:

A little Braying and Sponging Technique with this one. All Stampin' Up product used: Silhouette Sentiments, Clearly For You, and Pocket Silhouettes Stamp Sets; Peach Parfait, Pear Pizazz, Baja Breeze, and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper; Bashful Blue, Baja Breeze, Pear Pizazz, Crumb Cake, Wild Wasabi, and Soft Suede Classic Inks; Neutrals Brads; 1" Circle and Designer Label Large Punches; Square Lattice Textured Impression Big Shot Folder; Signo White Gel Pen; Brayer; Markers; and Sponges.

Try Stampin' On Tuesday Challenge Sketch #9

Okay, you know the drill: get your stamps out and get your fingers' inky for an entry into this week's challenge. Here is the link for CherylAnn's Try Stampin' On Tuesday blog with the details on submitting your entry. Good Luck!!

Until next time,
Sandi
"Let your light shine before men . . ." -- Mathew 5:16
"Shine your light, Father , on my slower pace today." -- Elizabeth Sherrill

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY #8: PEACE WITHIN WATERCOLOR

2011-03-29T00:02:00.002-05:00

I am writing this post Monday afternoon so I can automatically update my blog at midnight tonight. Trust me, I WILL NOT be awake past 8 p.m. tonight or up tomorrow morning before 8 a.m. I am totally walking around like a zombie today, after 3 days of being sleep deprived (my own choice by the way). Twice a year, I attend my upline's (Ronda Wade) and sideline's (Melissa Roberts) Creative Escape Retreat. This last weekend was the Spring retreat; thus, the reason for no sleep. I had so much fun, non-stop, that I didn't even remember to take pictures again! I am so sorry (Lynn) that I didn't because I had said I would in my last post. Trust me, there was so much fun going on that taking pictures was the last thing on my mind. The next retreat will be in October, so if you are in Michigan and want to attend, let me know as ladies were putting deposits down before they left this weekend. The spots go really fast, so putting a non-refundable deposit of $25 down is really worth it to reserve your spot.

And here it is, the last Try Stampin' On Tuesday challenge for the month of March. So very hard to believe there are only a few days left before April 1st. This also means it is the last inspiration card for me that features the Watercolor Wonder Crayons from Stampin' Up. I have had so much fun trying to improve my watercoloring this month and playing with one of my favorite accessories (crayons). But it is time to move on and create new and different projects with the other awesome Stampin' Up products. Here is what I came up with to inspire you for this week's challenge:

Thank you card using the following Stampin' Up Product: Peace Within and Tiny Tags Stamp Sets; Very Vanilla and Early Espresso Card Stock; Botanical Gazette Designer Series Paper; Watercolor Paper; Antique and Vintage Brads; Victoria Crochet Trim; Twine; Distressing Essentials (Precision File and Mahogany Stain); Watercolor Wonder Crayons: Cajun Craze, Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke, Old Olive, River Rock, Soft Suede, Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron, Early Espresso, and Basic Gray.

Try Stampin' On Tuesday (CherylAnn Robinson) card sketch for Week #8

Don't forget this is your last week to get in on the drawing for this month's prize. And to sweeten the pot, CherylAnn will have an additional prize drawing for "followers" of her blog if there are at least 50 followers signed up by the end of the month. So get on over to Try Stampin' On Tuesday for more details and get in on the fun!!

Happy Tuesday!!
Sandi
"Casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you." -- I Peter 5:7
"Lord help me to be open to your unconventioinal methods of healing." -- Roberta Messner

CARD EVENT SAMPLES

2011-03-24T11:38:00.001-05:00

Well here it is, Thursday, my favorite day of the week. Usually I stay in my PJs all day on Thursday because this is my stamp day. Nothing better than stamping in solitude all day in your PJs (well maybe “To Die For Chocolate” ice cream from Quality Dairy). Even when I go out to check the mail in my PJs, if a car comes by (which is rare), I just wave at them and let them think what they want (being a senior also helps in this respect because most people expect seniors to act weird, so who am I to let them down).

And today is a very special Thursday because I’m packing for retreat this weekend – Yippee!!! Maybe Tamie and I will stay in our PJs all weekend while we stamp (she’s not as old as I am, but she thought of it first). I still don’t know what projects I will be working on, but I will be taking some of Ronda’s and Melissa’s classes and doing the fabulous make’n-takes they have planned for the weekend. So that leaves me very little time to socialize, which is the biggest reason I attend retreat. I mean, really, with almost 60 females attending, who would not want to socialize and see what they are creating. This will be my 7th retreat weekend. I have attended all of them since Ronda Wade first started back in March 2008, and she has them twice a year. Every one has been awesome. So if you are interested in attending the next one (probably in October), leave a comment because people reserve their spots early (a lot will do it this weekend).

I suppose you want me to get on with showing you whatever new stuff I have been doing instead of how “happy” I am. As promised in my last post, today I have cards created for my last class event. I’m only showing 3 of them as I previously showed the 4th card (I do 4 designs and they make 2 of each). Okay, okay, okay – here they are:

This card is a CASE from one of the make’n takes we did at Ronda Wade’s demonstrator meeting. It is so gorgeous and was a real hit at my event. My 20 yr. old granddaughter had to leave early but had to make the “doll card,” as she called it before she left. Supplies used: Easter Blossoms Stamp Set; Crumb Cake, Baja Breeze, and Very Vanilla Cardstock; and Baja Breeze Seam Binding Ribbon.

This birthday card would be great for males. Product used: Bring on the Cake Stamp Set; River Rock, Not Quite Navy, and Whisper White Cardstock; Woodland Walk Designer Series Paper; Regal Brads; and Circles #2 Big Shot Die.

My Iris Fold technique card below was the “hit” of the class. We did this card together classroom style at the beginning. The first client who finished just kept sitting at the table, so finally I told her to feel free to start any of the other cards at the work stations. She just looked at me with this surprised look on her face, saying: “Oh, I thought after doing 2 of these we wouldn’t be doing any more because they were so beautiful.” Now you just know she made my day. This is why I love doing events – to see the joy in their faces when they are done. I wish I would have had my camera to take pictures of their faces when they turned their card over to look at their Iris Folds they had created. They thought it was going to be so hard, and was amazed at how easy they were. Here is the card:

Product used: Elements of Style and Oval All Stamp Sets; Baja Breeze, Early Expresso, and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper; and Basic Pearls.

I have to run because I need to get that packing done, make a challenge card, do my laundry, and take my nap (all in that order -- LOL). Being as it is now noon, I doubt I will get my nap :(

Until next time (hopefully I can take pictures at retreat and post this weekend).

Sandi
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you . . .." -- John 14:27

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY #7: BEARY NICE WISHES WATERCOLOR

2011-03-21T23:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone!

This week I am continuing with my collection of cards using the Watercolor Wonder Crayons for the Try Stampin' On Tuesday March challenges. I want you to know that I went "way" out of my box this week. So not only was this a challenge for the design, but a challenge to not make a vintage or flower card. Way too much for me to handle all at once. But I was bound and determined that I was going to complete it (and you know how us women are when we are determined to do something come * * * or high-water!). Yes, I did want to throw in the towel many times, but the Lord saw me through and provided me with the patience I needed to stick to it. No, it is not one of my best, but when I was all done I really liked it and some little girl will love it I am sure.

Here is what I ended up with:

Now isn't she just the happiest "Bearthday" girl with her glittery crown and balloons!! Here is what I used: Beary Nice Wishes, Beary Best Friends, and Berry Best Times Stamp Sets; Wild Wasabi, So Saffron, and Perfect Plum Cardstock; Watercolor Paper; Linen Thread; Rhinestones; Stampin' Dimensionals; Decorative Label Punch; and Baja Breeze, Marina Mist, River Rock, Garden Green, Wild Wasabi, Perfect Plum, So Saffron, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso, and Basic Gray Watercolor Wonder Crayons.

Week #7 Card Design Challenge from CherylAnn Robinson, Try Stampin' On Tuesday.

Now I know this isn't one of my very best watercolor cards, but I think it would be nice if all of you would leave a comment to at least congratulate me for completing my personal challenge!! Don't forget to check out CherylAnn's Try Stampin' On Tuesday blog to see the other inspiration cards from the Design Team and directions on how to participate.

Make sure you stop back later in the week because I will be posting pictures from my Classy Card Event (my new name for my card classes because my ladies really don't need "classes" any longer). Only 4 more days until I go to Ronda's Getaway Weekend Event -- woohoo!!!

Until next time,
Sandi
"And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me." Genesis 21:6
"Today, dear God, let me not beat myself up for my blunders -- and perhaps even see the humor in my mistakes." -- Linda Neukrug

BUCKLE PURSE FOR 3" X 3" NOTE CARDS

2011-03-18T14:00:00.001-05:00

Well I got my house all cleaned so that means I can sit down and play!! WooHoo!!! But even before I do that, I thought I would share with you an oldie-but goodie Buckle Purse for 3" x 3" Note Cards that I made for my thank you gifts this month. This pattern was introduced to me from my upline, Ronda Wade, way back in 2006, and I love it now just as much as I loved it then. So simple to make, but it is always a WOW. I was afraid I wouldn't find my instructions so I could get all the measurements. But I did, and I am so glad I only had 2 different places I had to check.

So moving right along (as I want to play you know), here is how it turned out:

I inserted four card and envelopes -- nothing fancy, but I liked them and they look so pretty in person as I misted with Champange Mist. Click on the pictures to enlarge. I used Night of Navy Card Stock and Classic Ink, of course my favorite Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper, Perfect Punches Stamp Set, Vanilla Grosgrain Ribbon, Rhinestones, and Elegant Lines Embossing Folder.

Here is a close-up of the notecards and how the inside looked.

I hope you all are enjoying this beautiful weather, as I know I have been out yesterday and today just loven' it and soaking it all in before it changes. Have a beautiful weekend, as I plan on it!

Until next time,
Sandi
"Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law." -- Romans 13:8

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY #6: FAST & FABULOUS WATER COLOR

2011-03-15T00:01:00.001-05:00

Yep, it's Tuesday again and you know what that means. It's time to Try Stampin' On Tuesday! And that is exactly what I have been doing since 7:30 this morning. Of course I am writing this on Monday and you will be reading it on Tuesday -- not to mix you up or anything. Actually I will be doing the same thing tomorrow, as I am prepping for Saturday's card event. I have decided not to call them "classes" anymore because that would infer that I am teaching something. Nope, usually my participants are teaching me new things. So I must come up with a new name for our group events -- adding it to my very long list of things to do (any suggestions would be welcome)!!

Getting right to the point today (pick yourself up from the floor), here is my creation for this week's challenge:

At first I thought this flower was a Daylily, but now that I see this picture, I realize it is a Gladiolas. Fortunately for me Gladiolas come in many shades of color!! Products used: Fast & Fabulous Level II Hostess and Perfect Punches Stamp Sets; Cherry Cobbler, Riding Hood Red, and Watercolor Cardstock; Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper; Black Staz-On and Cherry Cobbler Classic Inks; Scalloped Oval XL and Scalloped Trim Border Punches; Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon; and Watercolor Wonder Crayons: Cherry Cobbler, Riding Hood Red, Daffodil Delight, Wild Wasabi, Garden Green, Basic Gray, Baja Breeze, and River Rock.

This is what the inside looks like.

And this is the design CherylAnn provided for Try Stampin' on Tuesday Week #6.

Has it dawned on you yet that I am using the same technique?? Yep, I decided I am going to try to use my Watercolor Wonder Crayons (watercolor technique) for all of the challenges in March. Not sure if the next two designs will be appropriate for watercoloring, but I will be trying my hardest.

Okay, you know the drill: get your stamps out and get inky, it's time to Try Stampin' On Tuesday!! Click on the link to go directly to CherylAnn's blog for more information. Have fun and thanks for playing with us.

Sandi
"The Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, the the Lord looks at the heart." -- 1 Samuel 16:7

RUBBERQUEEN MEETING & SWAP

2011-03-10T19:58:00.000-06:00

Good Evening Everybody!
I had to make sure I posted tonight so I wouldn't forget to tell you this very exciting news. It won't mean much to those that don't live in Michigan, but for me it was a WOW day. I had actually already experienced this last week, but failed to mention it because I thought I was dreaming, but today I had a witness so I know it was not my imagination. Have you guessed yet? Okay, I will spill the beans. This morning around 7 a.m., when I was having my cup of coffee and sitting on the front porch talking with my sister, you will never believe what I heard and she heard from my phone. Yep, that's right -- all the birds chirping!! She was totally floored because they were so loud. To me it was music in my ears. You know what that means, Spring is around the corner. Count on it -- the birds know!!! Every year I know when the birds come back, the weather will warm up. Plus, the wild turkeys are all over the place (doing their thing and driving my dogs crazy), so I think they are looking to make their nests. I have yet to get a really good picture of them or the birds (we have some very colorful birds -- but then my husband feeds them better than us). So tomorrow (if I remember -- and that is a big "if"), I am going to carry my camera around with me to see if I can get some good pictures. Anyway (as Helen D. would say), my sister was thrilled that she got to hear them singing and I was thrilled because I could see and hear them (she said the birds haven't come back to her place yet).

So as long as I'm here, I might as well show you my swap card I did for Ronda Wade's RubberQueen meeting Tuesday night and a few that I received. Everybody votes on their favorite card and the winner receives a prize from Ronda. Let's just say I did not vote for myself this time -- I mean there were some GORGEOUS cards!! I have quite a few already set aside to CASE at upcoming classes. And here they are:

The winning card, done by Heidi Wilkins, using the "Baby Blossoms" stamp set from the Occasions Mini.

Here is mine using the Hostess Level I stamp from the Occasions Mini, "A Slice of Life."

Isn't this beautiful!! Done by Lynn Schulz, using many of SU's beautiful Big Shot dies and Embossing Folders.

Are you feeling like it's Spring yet?? If not, here's one more to get you in the mood. Done by Jackie VanDommelen featuring the "Inspired by Nature, Flight of the Butterfly, & Sincere Salutations Stamp Sets" and the "Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die."

Okay, if these cards have not helped you get out of the Winter blues then you are going to have to stop back to see my next update. I'm working on something using Daffodil Delight and if that doesn't shout "Spring" then you need a glass of wine.

Until next time,
Sandi
"God gives blessings to us so we can give glory to him." -- Our Daily Bread

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY #5: ELEMENTS OF STYLE WATER COLOR

2011-03-07T23:14:00.002-06:00

Welcome back for another week of Try Stampin' On Tuesday Challenges. I really, really had a tough time with this challenge design this week. Don't get me wrong, stamping, water coloring, and coming up with my image was easy. I just can't "cut" in a straight line, it's just not my forté. These old eyes just can't manage that any longer at all . So you will have to look past this issue, and just try to imagine what it would look like if I could cut straight, LOL. Otherwise, I loved the final result.

I hope you are enjoying these challenges. I know it has really stretched my creative abilities and allowed me to try new things. I have been told I need to keep my posts a little shorter (which is just not "me"), so without further ado here is the challenge:

Here is your Challenge #5 Design This Week

This is what I came up with for some inspiration. I so enjoyed using my "Watercolor Wonder Crayons" last week that I had to use them again. Products used: "Elements of Style Stamp Set"; "Staz-On Black Ink"; "River Rock & Night of Navy Card Stock"; "Watercolor Paper"; "Photo Corners Extra Large Punch"; "Bashful Blue 5/8" Satin Ribbon"; "Aqua Pen"; and "Watercolor Wonder Crayons: Bashful Blue, Marina Mist, Old Olive, River Rock, Always Artichoke, & Basic Gray."

And before you all raise your eyebrows; yes, I just realized the "Bashful Blue 5/8" Satin Ribbon" is discontinued. Somehow I neglected to remove this ribbon from my current products (maybe because I love it???), so never even gave it a thought when I used it on this card (hey, it went with my colors). You can substitute this color with the "Marina Mist 5/8" Satin Ribbon" however, and it would be just as good. Obviously I had a tougher time on this card than even I thought when I started this post. I hope you still like my creation anyway.

So now it is your turn. Get on over to the Try Stampin' On Tuesday blog and check out the rules. I really would like to see a few more of you joining the challenges -- I promise you it is fun!!

Sandi
"I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you should love one another." -- John 13:34

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY #4 - MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD

2011-02-28T23:08:00.000-06:00

Here it is Week #4 already of the Try Stampin' On Tuesday Challenges. Boy has that went fast. As one of the Design Team Members, I was very excited to do this challenge because I have wanted to use the "Nature Walk Stamp Set" every since my good friend Tamie Ackerson posted all of her samples using this stamp set. I cannot believe I was able to wait this long, but wanted to wait until I had the right design so I could showcase the Watercolor Technique with "Stampin' Ups Watercolor Wonder Crayons."; (Page 194, of the IBC). I so love working with their crayons, even tho I find it a challenge, I think they are easier to work with for coloring then the pencils. Plus, how awesome is it that you can coordinate your colors with all of SU's color collection (card stock, designer paper, ribbon, brads, etc.). I have yet to find any other company that has this capability. Yes, I am a total Stampin' Up geek, but I love their quality products and how everything coordinates.

Week 4 Challenge Design:

MY DESIGN:

My take on a Mountain Bluebird from the Rocky Mountains Region. Supplies Included: "Nature Walk Stamp Set"; Marina Mist and River Walk Card Stock"; "Watercolor Paper";"Botanical Gazette Designer Series Paper"; "Marina Mist and River Walk Classic Ink"; "Navy and Tea Stain Ink"; "Marina Mist 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon"; "Stampin' Dimensionals"; "Watercolor Wonder Crayons"; "Aqua Painter"; "Distressing Essentials"; and "Cutter Kit Distressing Tool."

Please click on the picture to enlarge, as it is a little busy looking in this small picture (well it might be a little busy looking for some of you even if it is enlarged, but I love it!!). And you will notice I couldn't go more than a week without doing another vintage. Design-wise, I feel you have so many more options when doing vintage projects, what do you think?

You know the routine by now, check out CherylAnn's blog (HERE), to get more information on the challenge and to see the rest of the design team's samples. We had an awesome group for the challenge last week, but let's top that this week.

Good Luck!
Sandi
"Consider this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." -- 2 Corinthians 9:6

CARD CLASS

2011-02-25T20:14:00.001-06:00

I just got done looking at all the comments from my last post again to see who correctly guessed the product that I failed to list when creating my Try Stampin' On Tuesday challenge card. First, thank you all for taking time to comment. As most of you know (who have a blog), it is always a great joy to hear from those that stop by and look at your art. It not only validates your existence in the blog world, but really makes you feel good. Some would say they don't need validation or someone else to make them feel good, which would be nice if we did feel that way. But I have to be honest and admit it does make a difference. I especially like comments because I always go check out the person's blog to see where they live, what type of art they create, and just get a "feel" for that person. Basically, that is why I blog -- because I love to socialize (ask any RubberQueen!) and because I "really do" love showing others what they can do with Stampin' Up products (which I also "love"). I also loved reading all the guesses for the missing product -- some made me chuckle, some made me think "where did that come from --LOL," and some were very close or right. So the first person that provided the correct product name was Linda Tarolli, she said:

Linda Tarolli said...

Another great card, Sandi. I think you forgot to mention the shimmer -- either shimmer paint/alcohol or the Smooch Spritz vanilla.

February 23, 2011 4:37 AM

Yes Linda, it was the Shimmer Paint/Alcohol mixture (Frost White) on the main image. I know I said this was just a "challenge," as I don't do blog candy, but I am going to mail you the card and a small surprise just because it's Friday. However, I feel like we were all winners because it was a lot of fun and you all sure did try hard to figure it out.

Now, how about me showing you my cards from my last card class? Okay, I like that idea too! All of these cards were CASEd (with a few changes/additions). The ladies truly loved these cards and so did I.

This is a CASE of Patsy Waggoner's card I received in a swap. It features the "Blossom Party Originals Die" and the "Word Play" stamp set ("Vintage Vogue" stamp on the envelope).

For the inside of the card I decided to use the "Something to Celebrate" Level II Hostess Set from the "Occasions Mini Catalog." Now it is ready to add a note for a graduation, new home, new job, or anything you want to congratulate someone special in your life.

This was CASEd from another RubberQueen (thank you to Susan Wohlfert), I believe from our Shoebox Swap. I changed it to a belated birthday card because I never remember to do these. It features our circle punches with the "On Your Birthday Stamp Set," "Elegant Soiree Designer Series Paper" and "Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die."

Isn't that owl just the cutest!! This was CASEd from Ronda Wade's Baggie Book class featuring "Sale-A-Bration" stamp sets. I used the "So Happy For You and Punch Bunch Stamp Sets," "Elegant Soiree Designer Series Paper" and "Baja Breeze 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon."

And finally, I call this my "Happy Card" -- so much fun and happiness in this card, which was another CASE from Ronda's Baggie Book class. This features the same two stamp sets as above: "So Happy For You and Punch Bunch." You will notice that my envelop has designer paper on it -- that wasn't put there because I planned it. Yep, it is to cover up my boo boo made when I was trying to stamp. I was lucky enough to have the "Hostess Level I Designer Series Paper Pack - In Color" that went perfect with Peach Parfait circles.

Well that's it for today. I hope you liked these as much as I did, and thanks for stopping by.

Sandi
"Do not hasten in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools." -- Ecclesiastes 7:9

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY #3

2011-02-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

Yes, it is Tuesday and time for another challenge!! And boy, it was really a challenge for me this week. But, as you know, I love challenges and do not quit 99.9% of the time. I was bound and determined that I was not going to do another vintage. I wanted to get out of my box. And you know that "anything" can happen when I decide to "get out of the box." Even with CherylAnn's design, I just couldn't figure out what I was going to do. I kept seeing visions dancing through my mind of the new "Newsprint Edition Speciality Designer Series Paper," "Nature Walk Stamp Set," "Baja Breeze Seam Binding," "Springtime Vintage Designer Fabric," etc. Wow, was that hard -- it was like having a box of chocolate clusters in front of me and telling myself, "No, Sandi you cannot have ANY of that luscious chocolate and nuts." Does this mean I have to stop buying my vintage product, just like I don't buy chocolate anymore???? I don't think so -- think again!! What it means is that I have to learn how to do something different, or do a lot more CASEing. One would think it would be easy-peasy. After all, I have the best-of-the-best showing me how to make easy-peasy WOW cards at our monthly meetings (Ronda Wade, Tamie Ackerson, and Melissa Roberts to name only a few). You will see what I mean when I show you (next post) what we did in our card class last Saturday -- all WOW cards CASEd from them!!

Okay, okay. Yes, I am stalling as I know you are expecting something "WOW." But it just isn't happening this time around -- however, it was the best I could do, and I like it. (And yes, it took me all day to figure out what I was going to do -- oh my gosh, I could write a novel on how that went!) First you need to see CherylAnn's Challenge #3 design:

Challenge #3: I know, I know. How much easier can it get? (Simple for you to say.)

And here it is (click on picture to enlarge). I call this "Espresso Majic," because I used the Black Majic Technique on "Early Expresso Card Stock." Products used: "Peach Parfait," "Daffodil Delight," and "Early Expresso Card Stock"; "Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper"; "Blessed Mother Stamp Set"; "Early Expresso and Peach Parfait Classic Ink"; "Whisper White Craft Ink"; "Stampin' Pastels"; "Petals A Plenty Textured Embossing Folder"; "Rosettes"; "Peach Parfait 1/2" Stiched-Poly Ribbon"; and the "Corner Rounder and Dotted Scallop Ribbon Boarder Punches."

Whew, that was a lot of product. However you might have noticed, I left one tiny product off the list. And because I love challenges and want to see how many of you made it to the bottom of this post (LOL), let's see who can be the first person to post a comment with the "correct" product left off my list above.

Okay, it's time for you to play with us, so get out your stamps and start inking away. Check out CherylAnn's blog to see the rest of the samples from the design team and to post your sample before next Monday, at 9 P.M. I can't wait to see what you come up with!!

Sandi
"Bear one another's burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ." -- Galatians 6:2

EASTER BLOSSOMS SWAP

2011-02-18T11:16:00.000-06:00

Today is my "cleaning" day (ugh!), but I am taking a break and thought I would share my swap card I did for this month's RubberQueen meeting. I am so mad because I forgot to take my camera to take pictures and really don't have time to do it now, as I need to get my cleaning done. This is a typical day-before class chore. If it wasn't for my classes, my house would never get a thorough cleaning. Sometimes I think that is the only reason I keep on having them -- but that really isn't true as I would miss seeing my friends and the fun we have. I must say, I do have a really fun group, and I always think of it as a girls' get together. The first half-hour we don't get much done as it is catch up time on what is going on in their life, then we get busy and try to stay focused (which is really hard for all of us).

Anyway here is my swap card -- truly nothing fancy. My goal was to create a card that didn't require "accessories," but at the last moment; I had to add a little shimmer with my new Baja Breeze Glass Glitter. It really doesn't show up much in this picture, but it is there.

Wow, what happened to my colors??? The card base is Very Vanilla card stock with a layer of Baja Breeze, then a layer of Rose Red card stock that was embossed with the "Vintage Wallpaper" folder that I inked with Crumb Cake on the debossed side. I stamped my image on Very Vanilla card stock and cut with the new "Clearlits Scallop Rectangle" die. For the life of me, I cannot remember what mini I bought that from, but I love it because you can see through the glass to position your image.

Okay, I need to get going so I can get the studio cleaned and set up for card class tomorrow. I have some awesome cards for them, ALL OF THEM CASEd from the RubberQueens!! Stop back so you can see what you miss by not attending meetings and events. Have a wonderful weekend!!
Sandi
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The Lord is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid?" -- Psalm 27:1

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY -- WEEK #2

2011-02-14T22:45:00.004-06:00

Welcome back for Week #2 of the "Try Stampin' On Tuesday" challenges. We had some awesome cards submitted last week for Challenge #1 and hope you will join us this week. Check out CherylAnn's blog here (or click on the button in my right margin) to see the other projects from the design group and to enter your project for a chance to win.

The sketch challenge this week is (click on the pictures to enlarge):

Week #2 Sketch Challenge

I used the sketch challenge to create my grand-daughter's birthday card (she just turned 16, but loves vintage). Product Used: "Easter Blossom," "Baby Blossoms," and "Elements of Style" stamp sets; "Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper and Fabric"; "Scallop Circle and 31/2" Circle Big Shot Dies"; "Scallop Trim Border Punch"; "Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder"; "Frost White Shimmer Paint"; and "Soft Suede, Baja Breeze, and Very Vanilla Card Stock."

Inside of the card.

I never realized until I was doing this post that I used the same designer paper and embossing folder as I did for last week's challenge. Do you think maybe that's because I love both!! Yes, but honestly, I did not even realize I was using the same product. My grand-daughter, Holly, loved it. She is an "old soul" and has been her entire 16 years. She loves, loves to come over and look at my ancestor's pictures, books, and everything I have (which is lots) from my ancestors. Every once in a while, I will give her something that means a lot to me and it just melts my heart because she gets all teary and sentimental with happiness. Sunday when we took her out for her birthday dinner, all her jewelry was family vintage, and she also asked me to make her and her friends more vintage fabric flower hair clips (they all want one now because she has started a trend at school). Here is a picture of her:

She thinks she studies better with her fake glasses on!

I have been so very blessed to have such kind and caring children and grandchildren. They may not live their everyday life the way I would, but they have to find their own paths. All I can do is be there, show by example, and pray. So far, all my prayers have been heard, but not necessarily answered in the way or time I would have thought they should. God does work in mysterious ways!

Thank you so much for stopping by, please take a minute to leave a comment. I love hearing from all of you.

Sandi
"But the plan of the Lord stands forever, the design of his heart, through all generations." -- Psalm 33:11

BUILD A BLOSSOM INSPIRATION #3

2011-02-10T20:00:00.000-06:00

Hello Everybody!

Boy did I ever get Spring fever today!! I mean, can you believe that sunshine and clear sky all day long. And here I was stuck in the house all day cleaning!! Well somebody has to do it. I don't have a Tamie, and my husband doesn't do laundry (thank goodness!) or cook dinner (another thank goodness), so that leaves only one person in the house that has "hands." I haven't yet taught my ex-boys how to clean yet, all they do is drag their toys around the house all day and eat my shoes! Notice I said "ex-boys." I guess you would call them "its" now -- they both had major surgury 2 weeks ago next Monday so they are "its" now. I've already noticed that their voices have changed, but that is about it (well, there is that "other thing" that is not there any longer, or is that "things" -- I really don't know???). I feel sorry for them because it wasn't like we asked them their opinion, and it just doesn't seem natural not to have the ability to have fun any longer. I guess maybe that is why they at up another pair of my shoes this week -- payback???

Okay, I just looked at the clock and Bones is going to be on in a few minutes so I am going to make this short and just show you the last of my cards from Ronda's event featuring product from the Occasions Mini Catalog. And here they are:

Yes, it has been a couple of years since I used my "Kindness" Jumbo Wheel and the matching "Simply Said" stamp set. Isn't it gorgeous with the "Build A Blossom" stamp set and coordinating "Blossom Petals Punch." I used the "Scallop Trim Corner Punch" for the trim.

Very simple card using one of the petals from the "Build A Blossom" stamp set and the punch for the candle flame and "Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper" for the candle.

Everybody loved my little fishies made with two of the stamps from "Build A Blossom" stamp set. I got the idea for doing the fishes from Jackie Topia, but added shimmer paint to mine directly to the stamp after inking. I can't believe it turned out of my very first try.

And here is my last one, using the stamp set and "Fun Flowers bigz L Die" for my flower and "Priceless" stamp set.

Okay, I have to run so I can make my salad and get settled in for "Bones." Looking forward to my scrapbooking night tomorrow, it has been a long time.

Until next time,
Sandi
"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." -- 1 Thessalonians 5:18

TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY

2011-02-07T23:01:00.021-06:00

Good Morning America (been a long time since I have been able to say that!!)

Guess what? I have been asked to serve on the "Try Stampin' On Tuesday" Design Team (click here for website)!! I am very excited and feel very honored to be asked. The team coordinator is CherylAnn Robinson, a fellow Stampin' Up Demonstrator. The other two Stampin' Up Demonstrators and design team members are Kristen Conant (Rubber Hugs by Kristen) and Tracey Old (A Stampers Touch). Please check out their fabulous blogs, I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Our sketch challenge for this week (using a Valentine theme):

Here is the sketch!!

And here is what I came up with using the above sketch.

I had no intention of putting the card in a frame when I started, but because of all the vintage going on, I decided to put it in this frame that is over 100 years old. (There is a story that goes with this as to how I happen to have this frame, but cannot share with you on my blog, nor do I want anybody else to share it with you -- meaning you, Kathleen, or all of goodies on my list for you will be removed.) When I get tired of it in the frame, I can take it out and send it on as a card. I used two different techniques in this card: Iris Folding and Cracked Glass and here are the supplies I used:

Stamps: "Grateful Greetings"
Card Stock: Always Artichoke, Pear Pizzazz, Rose Red, and Very Vanilla
Ink: Rose Red, Crumb Cake, and VersaMark
Accessories: "Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper," "Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder," "Frost White Shimmer Paint," "Victoria 5/8" Crochet Trim," "Rose Red Ink Refill," "Heart-to-Heart Extra-Large Punch," "Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware," "Antique Brads," "Vanilla Rosettes," "Rose Red Marker," and "Glassy Glaze Enamel."

I hope you liked my design for the challenge. For a chance to win a prize make sure you join in on the fun challenges each week (they begin each Tuesday and run for the week --check out CherylAnn's blog for more information). Make sure you stop by the other Design Team's blogs and then create your card to submit!! Can't wait to see what everybody comes up with.

Sandi
"Fill us at daybreak with your kindness, that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days." -- Psalm 90:14

BUILD A BLOSSOM INSPIRATION #2

2011-02-03T11:31:00.000-06:00

Wow, the sun is shining today!! Do you think maybe it is a sign that we will go for a whole day without snow? Wouldn't that be lovely. I have to get busy today and do some "organizational" work in my studio, so I decided to procrastinate (as usual) by updating my blog. I only had about 2 hours sleep last night (that always happens to me when I don't get a nap during the day), so I have to keep moving to stay awake. Right this moment the only thing that is keeping me awake, as I usually fall asleep when I am on the computer, is the fact that my feet are freezing. I don't think I have been warm for at least 6 weeks. So very unlike me.

Okay, I hear you, so I'm going to get right down to business. Here are some more pictures of my projects I created for Ronda Wade's SAB and Occasions Mini Event last Saturday (remember you can click on the pictures to enlarge for a better view):

I have had this wood frame for quite a while to make a clock, so what better time then to showcase the gorgeous Stampin' Up "Build A Blossom" and "Sense of Time" stamp sets. Along with the stamp set I used the new "Blossom Petals Extra Large Punch;" "Botanical Gazette" and "Love Letters" Designer Series Papers; "Victoria 5/8" Crochet Trim" ribbon; and a "Trinket Key."

Very fast and simple card featuring besides the stamp set and punch, the new "Vintage Flower" as an adornment.

Punched the stamped flowers and applied them to Stampin' Ups "White Vellum" card stock that was embossed with the "Vintage Wallpaper" textured impressions embossing folder.

I used the faux silk technique on this card (featured in January's "Stampin' Success" magazine available to demonstrators only).

I hope you enjoyed my projects as much as I did creating them. I still have lots more to show you, so stop back again. I also want to add a big thank you to all those that stopped by earlier this week and then took the time to leave me such encouraging comments. It really means a lot to me.

Sandi
"Cast your burden on the Lord, and he shall sustain you." -- Psalm 55:22