365 Cards: Sketch Sunday

Welcome to Sunday people! What a fun week it has been and I am excited to start a new one. So lets get on it! Here is today's sketch over at 365 Cards. I am pretty sure you will have fun with this one this week (um... do I say that every week?) Well, it's true!

Here is my take on said sketch:

I used ALL Cosmo Cricket papers. I covered the entire front which is something I rarely do. I also added paper to the chipboard party hat and trimmed it out. I used some faux stitching on the background paper and the sentiment. Both chipboard sentiment and hat come from Maya Road. I made up that little pom pom by wrapping bakery twine, tying it together and trimming the loops. (I am sure you know how to do this already, but for some reason find myself explaining it anyway!)

That's it for now! Have a relaxing and glorious day!

loves~

k

Deets:

Paper: Get Happy by Cosmo Cricket. Stampers White by Papertrey Ink

Accessories: Chipboard by Maya Road, Bakery Twine by Martha Stewart, Brads by American Crafts, Embroidery floss and black pen (stash)

365 Cards: Cutting Cafe Strawberry!

Well peeps, it has finally come. The very last day of our Cutting Cafe Week. Oh what a week it has been! I am really sad that it is over and that this is my last card to show, because honestly it feels like a bit of a downer. Wish it looked a bit better or was more interesting, but alas, it's all I got:

I paper pieced the strawberry and added yet more stickles. I outlined the pieces with a marker to add a bit of pop. The rest is self-explanatory ; )   The challenge for today is to put the image front and center with the white all around, so it didn't leave much more for me to do!

ok. so today, I am off to the Brooklyn Bridge to watch a friend get married, or arrested...whichever comes first. We are pretty sure it is illegal so we might have to make a run for it. (I just hope its not cops with horses ; ) You know, sometimes you have those kind of friends that just don't care. It should prove to be a good time and I am really happy I have been working on my running abilities as of late. They just might come in handy! I will fill you in if anything ca-Razzzy happens.

Thank you for checking in with me! I so look forward to your visits and comments. You make this so fun! I have been enjoying seeing what you have been working on this week as well. It's always inspiring!

Have a great weekend!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Printable Stamps Fruits by Cutting Cafe

Paper: Pure Poppy, Vintage Cream by Papertrey Ink, Berry Sweet by K&Co

Accessories: Earth Element Markers by SU!, Adhesive Gems by K&Co. Stickles, Corner Rounder

365 Cards: Cutting Cafe Cherry!

Happy Friday!! I was thinking it would be a bright and sunny day to go along with my card, but low and behold, it is raining! And actually its the perfect day to stay in, cozy up with the kids and make soup. Just a little bit of winter time activities for a rainy spring day. Anyway, here is my card for today using the Cutting Cafe Cherry image. The challenge to go along with it is to use only 2 colors. Well lets just say, I tried:

I thought I was doing really well and then realized I had used brown on the cherry stems! Oooh, SO close to keeping within the guidelines! So what I did today was printed the image at 100% onto watercolor paper and used dye ink with an aqua pen. I think it's only the second or third time I have tried watercoloring. But I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Then I stamped my square (diamond) and also created a mask and then stamped random lines across the front. 
I actually wrote over the sentiment with a black pen to make it nice and bold and then outlined it with a red pencil. I had to reprint the sentiment on regular paper because the colored pencil was catching in the grooves of the watercolor paper (just a tip if you want to try it too).  I added some stickles to the cherries and some twine bows and called it good! I really love the pop of red off of the green card.

I'm excited to see what everyone else creates today! Thanks for stopping by!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Printable Stamps Fruit by Cutting Cafe, Faux Ribbon and Borders and Corners by Papertrey Ink

Ink: Ruby Red, Garden Green, Close to Cocoa by SU!

Paper: New Leaf, Vintage Cream by Papertrey Ink, Watercolor Paper

Accessories: Aqua Pen, Colored Pencil, Bakery Twine by Martha Stewart, Black Pen, Stickles

365 Cards: Cutting Cafe Watermelon!

I don't know about you, but I have thoroughly enjoyed this week of Cutting Cafe images at 365 Cards. There are only a few days left, which makes me sad! I love these special challenge weeks. This one has proved to be challenging but OH so rewarding!  Today's challenge involves the Cutting Cafe Watermelon Image. I had a lot of fun making this one:

With today's card I printed one large image (at 125%) and colored it with pencils. I used two greens to get the rind to look more real and then used two on the actual melon part. Red around the seeds and pink for the rest. Blending more than one color is what gives you the depth you need to make it more real.

I then resized the watermelon image to 50% and printed it three times, colored, trimmed and used it as a 'scallop' edge. I also cut strips of this cute checkered paper by K&Co. and sewed around each strip. I wanted my picnic blanket to look handmade! I used diamond glaze on the big seeds and colored around the sentiment to help it pop a bit. Of course I used pop dots all over this baby! Here is a close up of the bottom detail:

I cheated a little bit on this card by using an actual stamp of the bitty ant. (Kim Hughes Summer Trees). I just really wanted my ants to be carrying those watermelons right off that picnic blanket and to their home! I popped up a few with dots and glued the others flat. I just love this little ant image... it's SO cute!

I hope you can play along today. Remember the challenge is to make a card inspired by a watermelon (you don't actually have to use the image). Be inspired by the shape, or colors, anything that helps you sit down and create. Can't wait to see what you have in store for us! We love looking through all your submissions, so keep 'em comin'! And if you are loving the images you have been seeing this week, head on over to Cutting Cafe to visit Regina. She has so many wonderful sets to choose from all at a great price!

That's it for today. Thank you so much for taking time out to stop by and say 'hi'. I love hearing from you. Hope all is well in your neck o' the woods!

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Printable Cutting Cafe Fruit, Summer Trees by Kim Hughes (ant)

Ink: SU! Basic Black

Paper: Papertrey Ink Vintage Cream, New Leaf, Citronella (pattern) by K&Co.

Accessories: Colored Pencils, Pop Dots, Hibiscus Burst Satin Ribbon, Vintage Button (PTI)

365 Cards: Cutting Cafe Pears!

Hey there, and Happy Wednesday to ya! Today we get to use another cute image from Cutting Cafe. The pears! The pears! OH, how I adore the pears!! The challenge from Pam today is to use pears and make an anniversary or engagement congrats card. So without further ado, today's card:

I decided to paper piece the pears. When you use fun papers it really takes these images up a notch.  I increased the size of the pears to 110%, printed the image on my cream cardstock, and then on two different patterned paper. I cut them out and popped up the separate pieces with dots. I added the PP in strips and let it do the work for me. The only additional stamp I used is that zigzag stitch to 'sew' together different strips. I also cut around the scallops in the paper to emphasize them.

Here is a close up of the piecing. I added some diamond stickles to the inside 'seeds' on the pear. They sure do sparkle! You know, my youngest brother is getting married this summer so I thought this would make a good engagement card, or even wedding card. (even though it's not in the brides colors ; ) That is why I added the 'best of luck' tag instead of a 'congrats' sentiment. You could go either way and have it legit (I think!) We are all so excited for them and we wish them all the best!

Have a great wednesday today! Thanks for stopping in and for taking time to share all your wonderful comments, I LOVE hearing from you!!

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Printable Stamps Fruit by Cutting Cafe, Sewing Kit by Gel-A-Tins, Faux Ribbon by Papertrey Ink

Ink: Ocean Tides

Paper: Vintage Cream, Ocean Tides by Papertrey Ink, Dutch Girl by Cosmo Cricket

Accessories: Vintage Buttons by Papertrey Ink, Satin Ribbon by Tai Pan, twine, corner rounder, pop dots, Diamond Stickles

365 Challenge: Cutting Cafe Week!

Hey All! Day #3's challenge of Cutting Cafe week is "The Eye's Have it!" Use the word Eye somewhere on your card. The 365 Cards DT-ers are to use the apple image from Cutting Cafe. Here is my card:

I made a window of acetate. The base card is a dark green (Ripe Avocado) and the inside is a light green (spring moss). I also score the top of the card in about 1/4 inch on either side of the fold, punched holes and wrapped my string through to create a little 'book binding' look. I liked cutting out the words on my first Cutting Cafe card so I tried that again but paired it with some chipboard letters.

Hope you are enjoying Cutting Cafe week so far. What do you think?? The images are so fun and there are endless possibilities. We hope you like what you have seen!! Check back tomorrow for another card. See you then!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Printable stamps Fruits by Cutting Cafe

Paper: Ripe Avocado, Spring Moss, Stampers White, Bitty Dot by Papertrey Ink

Accessories: Twine, Heidi Swapp Chipboard, Nestabilities, Acetate, hole punch, black pen, SU! Earth Element Markers

365 Challenge: Cutting Cafe Week!

Happy Memorial Day to each of you! What a lovely day and an especially important day to honor those men and women who have given themselves to serving our country. I salute them and feel a swelling of gratitude and admiration for them especially today. What courage, discipline and faith it must have taken and still does take to serve. Bless you and your families for all you have given.

It's day #2 of our Cutting Cafe week and I am delighted to participate today in the challenge. Pam has issued it.... and I answered the call. The challenge is to use purple as the main color and use at least 5 circles on the card. Also, the DT member(s) are to use this adorable Cutting Cafe image. And here is my card:

The first thing I realized when doing this card was that I have ZERO purple patterned paper. So I got the chance to make my own. I used this dark purple paper that I think came from a Michael's pack, but I couldn't be sure. There was only one sheet sitting hidden among the other colors. I used 2 PTI Background Basics sets with white ink. I printed my Cutting Cafe grape image and colored it with the SU! Kid Markers (they are bright and fun colors!). My 5+ circles are the little jems I picked up (Michael's dollar spot.) I used my Nestabilities to cut the circle and scallop and popped them up on dots.  

I hope you have a wonderful day and have a chance to play along with the challenge. How much purple do you own? It doesn't seem like an overly used color, so stretch yourself today and take on the challenge. I can't wait to see what you create!!

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Printable Stamps By Cutting Cafe, Polka Dot Basics and Background Basics: Retro by Papertrey Ink

Ink: Fresh Snow by Papertrey Ink

Paper: Dark Purple by Michaels, Stampers White and New Leaf by Papertrey Ink

Accessories: Plum Pudding Saddle Stitch Ribbon by Papertrey Ink, Nestabilities Scallop and Circle Die Cuts, Pop Dots, Adhesive Gems by Studio 18

365 Cards Sketchy Sunday + Cutting Cafe!

Hey there folks! It's a special Sunday today because not only do you get to see a 365 Cards sketch, but the DT got to use some fun images from the company Cutting Cafe to go along with it! Here is Pam's Sketch for the week:

And here is my take on it:
I used one of the big cupcake images from their Cupcake Set which is just so cute! You get SO many cupcake images in different sizes and such fun sentiments too for a great price. You print out your image on your cardstock using your computer/printer cut it out and decorate it how you would like. It's super fast and fun. The thing about printable stamps is its a breeze with storage (there is none!) and you don't have to use ink, blocks and other 'stamping paraphernalia'  to get a cute card made! Regina has some really great tips on her website on how to use these images. She has done a spectacular job with designing these amazing and fun sets. 

Doesn't this cupcake look good enough to eat? I love how large and inviting it is. I added some crystal glaze to the little hearts and some stickles to the big one. I stamped the scalloped circle with a woodgrain pattern and popped the cupcake up. The sentiment comes curved like that which is really fun. Be sure to stop by 365 Cards to see the other Cutting Cafe images the DT members have used, and have fun participating with this sketch today.  Also check back with 365 and the DT every day this week for more fun images from the Cutting Cafe!

Thanks for visiting today. 

loves

k

Deets:

Stamps: 'All About Cupcakes' by Cutting Cafe PRINTABLE stamps, Happy Campers (woodgrain) by Cosmo Cricket

Ink: Papertrey Ink Dark Chocolate

Paper: American Crafts Metro Line, Papertrey Ink Raspberry Fizz

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Raspberry Fizz Ribbon, Button, twine, stickles, crystal glaze, Nestabilities Scallop Circle, corner rounder

Oh NO!!!

Well, my weekend has come to an end!! It was so short and went so fast. However every minute was glorious and memorable. The real problem is that I kinda forgot to take pictures. You know we were just so busy! Here is the ONLY picture I took:

Goes to show what my priority is.... FOOD! This is our fondue spread. Fruit, brownies, cake, some marshies... all to dip in chocolate.

And you would probably be HORRIFIED to know that I only made ONE card. Yup, ONE. I was too busy talking and cooking and eating but let me tell you, I don't really mind one bit. I guess you could say our 'weekend' was more like 24 hrs. than the entire weekend (cause we all have family responsibilities and we have to go to church tomorrow!) and our 'stamping' was more chatting and being together as friends. However one friend did really well and made a lot of cards (she is always so much more focused than the rest of us). Since she did so well, I feel that stamping was a success.

The one card I made can be seen tomorrow for the first Cutting Cafe challenge at 365 Cards. Can't wait to show you! It was super late when I made it (what, with so much chatting!) and my brain was so tired from all the days prep that it took a long time to put it together. I figure that's why I didn't get more done. But I am planning on participating in all the Cutting Cafe challenges this week, so be sure to check back every day to see the cute images they sell. Everyone at 365 Cards is SO excited and we hope you are too!

Until then I want to leave you with a recipe that I just absolutely LOVE! I found it in the Rachael Ray Magazine last month and it is TO DIE FOR! *Bumble Berry Napoleons*

 You can read all about it HERE.  The picture alone is enough to make you ache and trust me when I say, you want to try this recipe. It is so wonderful you will be using it again and again. I know I will be using for all my summer entertaining. And just a quick note, if you are a recipe alter-er... try to refrain. This one is perfect the way it is. I have tried it enough to know! ; )

see you tomorrow!

k

Deets:

FOOD, FOOD and MORE FOOD!!

My Stamping Weekend

Well, the kids (and husb.) are finally gone. It's been a busy day full of preparations. I have some guests coming tonight, so I pulled out my stamping table...

A few of my stamping friends and I decided we really wanted to go on a stamping retreat. But no one has the pocket money for it. So we decided we would have a mini-retreat at my house this weekend. Two friends are kidnapping a third friend who will be moving away from us next month. We wanted one last chance to get together, but this time with NO kids.... it's going to be delightful. I am so surprised that none of us have spilled the secret of 'the kidnapping'. I am horrible when it comes to that, so its a good thing I don't live close to them. I hope this is a memorable night for all of us, but especially our one special friend who will be moving on. We love her so much and will miss her terribly. I have a fondue pot heating up, pound cake and fruit cut and I pulled together a bit of a 'stampers retreat' goodie bag:
I made these pinwheel stick thingys, and let me just say, I cannot keep them put together. I tried runners tape and glue dots. They just keep falling apart. Hopefully they will stay together long enough for them to squeal just a little bit.
Inside I put some ribbon, clear stamps, embellishments and a little notebook with their monogram on it in this cute bucket from Target. I was short on time so I got something already decorated. These flowers matched the ones in the Floral Frenzy set perfectly. I curved the sentiment "just for you" around the flower on the red paper.

My fridge is stocked and I have cards planned in my head. Should be a great weekend. The best part is I don't ever worry about my kids when they are with my DH. They are in great hands (if not better than mine) and so I know we will ALL have a great weekend!

Hope yours is wonderful as well. I will post pictures when I get them. 

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Floral Frenzy and Around & About SEntiments by PTI. Modern Alphabet by Amy Butler

Ink: Cyan by Color Box Chalk, Pure Poppy by PTI, Basic Black by SU!

Paper: Patterend by AC, Pure Poppy and White by PTI

Accessories: PTI Ribbon, Bamboo skewers, glue dots (lots and lots!)

Friend: Stamped Background

This week is quickly coming to a close and I am getting excited for the events coming this weekend.  Patrick is taking the boys camping, so I should get a lot of crafting done. I can't wait! I keep thinking I have been making a lot of cards lately but when it comes to posting, I feel there isn't a lot to choose from. Not quite sure why that is. Anyway here is my card for today:

I hand stamped the background using button stamps in clusters and then adding leaves to make them look like flowers. Then I just decided to stamp over them with a flower outline in Dark Chocolate to make them show up a bit more. This started out as an experimental stamping moment, but I liked it so much I decided to make it into a card!

Thats all for today. Quick and simple. Hope you have a good one! 

k

Deets:

Stamps: Gel-A-Tins Sewing Kit, Hero Arts Thoughtful Messages (flower outline), Papertrey Ink Polka Dot Basics, Floral Frenzy (leaves), Friends Til The End (sentiment)

Ink: Papertrey Ink Melon Berry, Summer Sunrise, Dark Chocolate

Paper: Papertrey Ink Dark Chocolate, Vintage Cream, Summer Sunrise

Accessories: SU! Scallop Circle Punch, Marvy Circle Punch, Papertrey Ink Summer Sunrise Twill Ribbon, Vintage Button. Martha Stewart Bakery Twine

365 Cards Challenge: It's Hip To Be Square!

Hey, it's wednesday again!! Today it's my turn to do a challenge at 365 Cards. Today's challenge is to use 5 squares somewhere on your card. And here it is:

I chose my five colors, squared them up and stamped an image on each one. I wanted it to be hip and simple and striking. I drew a frame using a Silver Deco Pen. What do you think? Can't wait to see what you create today! Hope you have a glorious day and remember to mark your calendars for Cutting Cafe Week starting on Sunday at 365 Cards!

loves to you today~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Hero Arts Hello Circles, Pink Paislee Sweet Cakes, Papertrey Ink Polka Dot Basics, Sassafras Lass Oh My Deer.

Ink: Papertrey Ink Pure Poppy, Spring Moss. Hero Arts Soft Pool. SU! Pink Passion, Summer Sun, Chocolate Chip

Paper: Papertrey Ink Pure Poppy, Stampers White, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Lemon Tart, Hibiscus Burst, Kraft

Accessories: Pop Dots, Deco Pen

A Very Special Delivery!

Hey there, Happy Tuesday to ya! You know, I have been thinking.... yes, dangerous I know. But I have decided to temporarily put Take-Off Tuesday on hold. There are a lot of things that I have been working on as far as crafting is concerned, and I am finding that TOT gets put to the back burner and then causes me a bit of stress. And you know I started this to release stress, not add it! Now don't worry I will still have a card every tuesday (and everyday for that matter), you will just find that it won't necessarily be a take-off of any kind. But if I feel so inclined to add one on any given tuesday, I will be sure to note it as such.

So without further ado, I bring you today's "non-take-off tuesday" card. It's based off of the challenge over at 365 Cards, which is to use plaid as your inspiration! Here she is:

The plaid lines are hand stamped using Pacific Point, New Leaf and Fresh Snow. I embossed the dashed lines with white powder. Here is a close-up:
These plaid lines were so fun to make. I paper pieced the onesie and used a new EK Success tab punch for the matted layer. I am hoping this card gets to go to our sister-in-law who just announced they are having their first baby in the fall. Of course if its a girl, I am sure I could figure something else out ; ) Congrats to them and Good Luck!!

That's all for today. See you tomorrow at 365 Cards. It's my official day! And don't you worry... the challenge is all that and a bag of chips! Also, prepare yourselves for our entire week of Cutting Cafe images starting Sunday. They are super fun and I think you will love them!

loves~

k

Deets: (all Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Stamps: Faux Ribbon, Bitty Baby Blessings

Ink: New Leaf, Fresh Snow. SU! Pacific Point, Basic Black

Paper: Old Avocado, Lemon Tart, Stampers White, Bitty Dot Patterned Paper. SU! Not Quite Navy

Accessories: Marvy Circle Punch, EK Success Tab Punch, Pop Dots, Embroidery Floss, Filigree White embossing Powder

Thinking Of You Today

A simple card for this simple Monday...

It's hard to believe a new week is starting. I know the older you get the faster time goes, but I just don't see how it can go by ANY faster. I can barely keep up as it is!  This week will be full of gardening. I have a bone to pick with some bamboo in my back yard. It's taking up precious space where my tomatoes want to go.  Wish me luck. Word has it when you pick a fight with bamboo, you rarely win. But I am determined to beat it even without a backhoe. So things could get ugly. But for now I leave you with a card, and a simple hello. Hope your day is grand.

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Gel-A-Tins Big N Wild Things, Papertrey Ink Everyday Classics

Ink: Papertrey Ink Ocean Tides and Fresh Snow. SU! Basic Black

Paper: Papertrey Ink Ocean Tides

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Vintage Buttons 

365 Cards Super Sketchy Sunday!!

Hey there all! I have had school on the brain lately. Ronin had his Kindergarten Orientation last week, and my mother is a school teacher and it all ends for her in 3 weeks! I am trying hard to prepare myself to be a mother of a school kid. It's quite a stretch for me ; )

So because of all this, I thought I would break out my favorite teacher set by Kim Hughes to use for today's sketch. Here it is:It stumped me for a bit, but you know Pam always stumps me. She is so great at giving challenges! Here is my card:

This is the first Kim Hughes set I ever purchased and I still adore every bit about it. Most of the images are from 'Making The Grade'. The grass is from her 'Summer Trees' set and the two patterned stars are from Gel-A-Tins.
Here is a close-up. I have this large spool of burlap that I inherited and I have been dying to use it on a card. I threaded some bakery twine by Martha Stewart through it to give me the diagonal in the sketch. I added in the school house because my card was visually off balance.  It was important to add even if it deviated from the sketch a bit. But of course that's what makes doing this fun! I can't wait to see how you interpret today's sketch. I hope you have fun with it!

Have a great one today!

love to you and yours~

k

Deets:

Stamps:  Kim Hughes 'Making the Grade' and 'Summer Trees' (for CHF), Gel-A-Tins 'Super Star'

Ink: SU! Summer Sun, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Ruby Red, Basic Black. Hero Arts Soft Pool

Paper: Papertrey Ink Kraft, Vintage Cream

Accessories: Heidi Swapp Journaling Tabs. Martha Stewart Bakery Twine. Burlap. Pop dots

Wishing You Well

Another card using the Everyday Classics Set that I just adore! Little tea cups with polka dots... Just the epitome of cuteness!

Keeping it simple today. I guess I have nothing to chatter about. Is that even possible??? I'm out and about today but be sure to check back tomorrow for my take on the sketch at 365 Cards.

Have a great Saturday!!

k

Deets: (all Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Stamps: Everyday Classics (2nd Anniversary Set)

Ink: Dark Chocolate. SU! Summer Sun, Pumpkin Pie

Paper: Dark Chocolate, Summer Sunrise, Vintage Cream. SU! Really Rust

Accessories: American Craft Ribbon, Marvy Square Scallop Punch, SU! Scalloped Line Punch, pop dots

You're My Favorite!

Oy! It's finally friday!! I just can't believe its actually here!  I have been crafting a lot this week. It's been fun but boy, you should see the floor! Today I have been taking notice of all the things falling apart around me while I have been busy. Laundry, dishes, floors, yard... it's quite the mess around these parts! Thats what I will be working on today. But for now, here is todays card:

A little polka dotted Papertrey goodness for ya! I purchased all this purple paper from them and haven't been using it much. It's a hard color to wrap my brain around, but I do love it paired with red. And that button I love so much. I want to use it on every card, it's that great! 

Here's a little close up for ya:
I embossed the sentiment and flourish with sparkle white embossing powder. It gives a fun little oomph to it. That's all for me today. The weekend is pretty full, but I do plan to be around for some posts. Something simple tomorrow and my 365 Cards Sketch on Sunday, hope to see you around! Have a great weekend!

k

Deets: (all Papertrey Ink Unless Noted)

Stamps: Everyday Classics

Ink: Pure Poppy, Plum Pudding, Dark Chocolate, Fresh Snow

Paper: Plum Pudding, Stampers White, Dark Chocolate, Pure Poppy, Bitty Dot Pattern Paper

Accessories: Pure Poppy Twill, Vintage Button. Sparkle Embossing Powder (can't remember brand!)

CPS #115

Here is this weeks CPS Sketch. So basic but the possibilities are ENDLESS! 

Here is my card for today:

I wanted to get a bit 'scrappy' with it. I am trying to explore different styles and wanted to stack some stuff on my card. No clean and simple for me today! I embossed the white polkadots on the background. Cut up some more Urban Prairie papers (thanks again Sherry!). Stamped the bottom scallop image (comes with stamp set). Layered two ribbons, layered my dolls, flowers, gems and added my scalloped circle. Plus I used the scraps from a nestabilitie for the bigger circle.
Here is a close up of my cutie dolls. This set reminds me of my MIL because she spent some time in Russia. I received my first Matrushka set from her. Ahhh, sweet memories. I colored these with some pencils to give them a color boost, but kept them monochromatic.

All in all, such a fun card to make. It took me all night because I stopped to watch a movie with the husb. half way through. It's finally thursday, and for some reason I feel the week is dragging, but then also going really fast. I think its all a matter of what time of day it is. The mornings rush by and the afternoons drag since the kids can hardly wait until Daddy comes home from work. Thats when the day gets really fun!  And you can only send them outside with popsicles so many times. But at least the weather is fantastic!!

Ok, have a good one today. Thanks for visiting me! I love to hear from you, so drop me a comment if you have time. 

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Hero Arts Matrushka Dolls. Papertrey Ink Polka Dot Basics

Ink: SU! Basic Black, Old Olive. Papertrey Ink Summer Sunrise, Pure Poppy. Hero Arts Soft Pool

Paper: Papertrey Ink Sweet Blush, Stampers White, Spring Moss. Basic Grey Urban Prairie. Michael's Soft Blue

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Hibiscus Burst Satin, Raspberry Fizz Grosgrain. Prima Flowers, K&Co. Gems, SU! Scallop Punch, Scallop Circle Nestabilities, pop dots

365 Cards: Hand Written Sentiment

Hey there! Today's 365 Card Challenge is to hand write your sentiment. This was a tricky one because I really don't like my handwriting and I practiced a lot to get it right. I decided a small sentiment was something I could handle because I didn't have to look at it a lot and analyze it. Here is my card:

Now that it is done I actually wanted to do another card with a bigger sentiment. I felt like I was in grade school again doodling little sayings on my notepad. I will definitely try doing something like this again. It's a good challenge! I stamped my flower image right over my polka dot paper. That half scallop circle was intentional ; ) and I double stacked my buttons and double matted my sentiment. Quick and simple today.

Thanks for checking in and for all you amazing crafters who participate at 365 Cards every day or week. You really are SO wonderful at doing the challenges. I am amazed to see how you fit it into your day and I have loved watching your design abilities grow. You are getting so fabulous! So link up your creations HERE, I can't wait to see what you make and have a great day *(half way through the week guys... we can do this!)

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Gel-A-Tins Big N' Wild Things

Ink: Papertrey Ink Ocean Tides

Paper: Papertrey Ink Ocean Tides, Stampers White, Dark Chocolate, Spring Moss Bitty Dot.

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Vintage Buttons, Martha Stewart Bakery String, SU! Scallop Punch, Marvy Circle Punch

2 Sketches 4 You: Sketch 26 (Re-Post!)

**I had originally wanted this to post at the end of the day but in my sleepy stupor last night I forgot to change the time on the post so it posted first. You probably think my ramblings make no sense. But basically I am just out of it, so I am posting it again at the right time!

Here is the sketch from 2 Sketches 4 You. 

Here is my take:
Again I used Basic Grey Paper (for trees and bottom) but used a whole lotta stampin' for the rest of the card. The sky background is from the Papertrey Ink Background Basics: Retro set. It's the stitched squares and I just stamped it randomly across the paper. The fence, trees and bird is from Kim Hughes Summer Trees and I also used the wood grain and sentiment stamp from Cosmo Cricket's Happy Campers Set. I thought this might be a good "welcome to the neighborhood" card, but I don't actually own that sentiment. I thought this one worked just as well for the occasion.

So that is it for today's Take-Off Tuesday(s). Hope you enjoyed all the cards I made. It feels good to have some challenge cards done for the week! I hope to get a few more made, but we will just have to see ; ) 

Be sure to check back tomorrow for my 365 Cards Challenge! See you then!

loves~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Papertrey Ink Background Basics: Retro, Kim Hughes Summer Trees, Cosmo Cricket Happy Camper

Ink: SU! Basic Black, Ruby Red, Close To Cocoa. Papertrey Ink Dark Chocolate, New Leaf. Hero Arts Soft Pool

Paper: Papertrey Ink Stampers White, Linen Vellum, Dark Chocolate, Kraft. Basic Grey Urban Prairie

Urban Prairie Scraps

I received a sweet email last week from a new friend Sherry. I met her over at 365 Cards. If you haven't been over there yet, I don't know what you are waiting for. Everyone is so nice and the challenges are fabulous!! When I commented on a card Sherry made using some Basic Grey Urban Prairie papers she emailed and offered to mail me some of her scraps! Now, this was SO incredibly thoughtful of her and obviously inspired because one of my favorite things to do is sit with a pile of scraps and create something. I seem to do better with that sometimes than full sheets of paper! So Thank You Sherry.... Here is the card I made for you:

The other fun thing about this card is that tag was actually from a new pair of jeans I just bought. I wanted to use it (and the rope) so I covered it with some paper. The paper was the perfect size too, so I didn't have to shed any tears by cutting into a full sheet. I love not crying over cut paper ; )

Anyway. Thanks again Sherry for the scraps (you will see more in the next card) and for helping me with another Take-Off. If you haven't hit Sherry's blog yet (I have linked her 4 times already!) Go over to HER BLOG and say hi and see the fun things she is doing!

See you again!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Papertrey Ink Friend's Till The End (Sentiment)

Ink: SU! Basic Black

Paper: Papertrey Ink Stampers White, Basic Grey Urban Prairie

Accessories: Tag, Rope, Flowers, Button, Floss

Card Patterns Sketch 14

Here is the sketch from Card Patterns. I decided to use the new Kim Hughes Set for this one:

Here is my card:
I just adore Kim Hughes sets. It's odd that I don't own more of them when I love them so much! And honestly I adore Kim. She is so nice and SO amazingly talented. If you have never visited HER BLOG, you really must. She is just fabulous!! 

I used some Basic Grey and K&Co. papers. I love how bright and cheery it is. And I just had to add that little ant there at the end because our ants are out and livin' it up in the summer sun! Every time Cache sees one he has to yell to me to come and look at it. I guess it's because he never has seen an ant before. Kim's ants are much cuter than the ones at my house, thats for sure!

Ok, thats 2 for 2. See you in a bit for another fun card!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Kim Hughes Summer Trees for CHF

Ink: SU! Tangerine Tango, Close To Cocoa, Purely Pomegranate, Ruby Red. Papertrey Ink New Leaf. Hero Arts Soft Pool

Paper: Papertrey Ink Spring Moss. K&Co Citronella, Basic Grey Urban Prairie

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Lemon Tart Saddle Stitch Ribbon, Vintage White Button. Embroidery Floss, Pop Dots

Caardvarks Quote Challenge

We are going to start off light this morning. I had a real hard time with this challenge from Caardvarks. The challenge is to use a quote or verse as the focal point. I can tell this was the first creative moment of the day because it's always tough getting going.

I used my background stamp from Stampers Anonymous which I haven't used it in a loooong time. Then stamped my brackets and quote over it. I wonder though, is it an actual quote if no one knows who said it??? Well, this really is just a warm up for today. Check back in a bit and I will have a second card to show you and hopefully you will find it a bit more interesting to look at. 

Thanks for checking in this morning.... see you again!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Stampers Anonymous, Papertrey Ink Wise Old Owl (sentiment) Pink Paislee Fancy Frames (brackets)

Ink: Papertrey Ink New Leaf, Lemon Tart. SU! Not Quite Navy

Paper: Papertrey Ink Kraft, Linen Vellum. SU! Not Quite Navy

Accessories: Hero Arts gems, Distressing Tool

Take-Off Tuesday # 25... Extravaganza!

Hey there. Happy Tuesday! I had a thought about todays Take-Off. You see, yesterday was just fantastic. I received my PTI Anniversary Set in the mail and I was purdy happy and then I checked the mailbox to find the new Kim Hughes set (which I won from her blog) AND some Urban Prairie paper scraps from my new cyber-friend Sherry. So you see I had a lot of creating that I wanted to do, plus I always struggle to get challenge cards done during the week, so I decided for this weeks Take-Off, I would do some challenges. They are all sketch challenges, and I think that is totally a 'Take-Off' in their own way. You think I'm stretching the definition here?? Well maybe, but what's done is done and I have 4 (yup, count 'em FOUR) cards to show you today. And since every challenge blog wants you to link right to their card, I will be doing separate posts. So check back throughout the day as my Take-Off Tuesday Extravaganza will keep you guessing. Sound fun??? Good!

See you soon!

k

Absolutely Fabulous

It came, it finally came!!! Today I received my anniversary set in the mail AND actually got ot use it! And let me just say, I absolutely love this set!

Today nap time was a bit of a train wreck, but I managed to squeeze this little baby in. Ronin picked me some mini flowers which were yellow and green. The way it looked made me think of a star in a flower and so that is what I did for this card! I added some buttons and a sentiment. This little guy is something like 3.5 squared. So not big. 

Happy Monday to ya! I hope to get a post in tomorrow before the day is actually gone!

This week should be fun right? It's always a good omen to get a stamp set on a monday.

Love to you!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Papertrey Ink 2nd Anniversary Set

Ink: SU! Old Olive, Summer Sun, Basic Black

Paper: Papertrey Ink Stampers White, Kraft

Accessories: Papertrey Ink White Buttons, Embroidery Thread

365 Cards Super Sketchy Sunday!!

It's Sunday Sunday Sunday!!! Welcome again for a 365 Cards Sketch.  Here is today's sketch:

 And here is my card:

I rotated it for fun. Stamped some background stuffs (yes, I have deemed that a REAL word) and added some scalloped chipboard and ribbon. Now there is always a favorite part of every card for me. With this one it's that little buckle. You see it? It is actually a REAL buckle from my fav. pair of shoes that just took their last walk. They were lime green flats and so much fun. I cut off both buckles because I just knew I could do something with them. It adds a fun detail! Although I don't recommend chopping up your shoes until they are really dead and gone. ; )

So that is it today. Have a wonderful Mother's Day to you all! Whether you are a mother or not, I believe today celebrates all women who love and mother in their very own way. We can all be good influences on those children (and adults) around us. So happy day to you!

love

k

Deets:

Stamps: Papertrey Ink Scattered Showers, Background Basics: Retro

Ink: Hero Arts Soft Pool, Papertrey Ink Pure Poppy, SU! Basic Black

Paper: Papertrey Ink Stampers White, Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Aqua Mist Saddle Stitch, Summer Sunrise Twill, Buckle, Pop Dots

Quick and Easy... Kind Of

Hey there on a Saturday morning! I am supposed to be running right now, but you can see that  I am not. I wanted to post this little guy that I worked on last night:

I stamped the large woodgrain circle from Hero Arts in four different colors and then cut them square for the back ground. I curved the background stamp which is from the PTI Background Basics: Retro set and then the chandelier from Heidi Swapp is stamped and embossed in white. Simple and modern-y. So it looks pretty simple, but did take a bit of time and thought. I guess that means I learned something! I like that it is one layer, with some layered stamping

So what do you have planned for this saturday?? I hope it is delightful! I am going out to buy my Mother's Day gift, which is so funny when I read it, but really this is the only way. I really want a bread maker and need to scram with the kids so Patrick can work for a few hours. Plus I have been told my real gift won't be her for a while. So don't worry, my husb. is still on top of it! 

Be sure to check back tomorrow for my 365 Cards Sketchy Sunday card! 

And have a good one!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Hero Arts Hello Circles, Papertrey Ink Background Basics: Retro, Heidi Swapp Chandelier

Ink: Hero Arts Soft Pool, SU! Summer Sun, Tangerine Tango, Basic Grey, Color Box Chalk Ink Moss Green, Papertrey Ink Fresh Snow

Paper: Papertrey Ink Stampers Select White

Accessories: Filigree White embossing powder

Kwerner Color Challenge #51

I haven't had a chance to participate over at KWernerDesign in a loooong time. In fact, I have only participated a handful of times, so I am happy I got a chance to create this week. Here are the colors:

Here is my card:

I hate to say this, but this card makes me say "ICK!" It started really good, but I totally over worked it. I was going to make a different one, but I have honestly run out of time. I have guests coming to stay tonight and the house is a monstrous mess! I also color corrected this a bit in photoshop but did it sitting in a sunny window, so I am pretty sure the colors are off now. But I do love the images and the paper I used. Pink Paislee love comin' your way!! 

I hope you friday is as glorious as ours. I love opening all the doors and windows, playing music and cleaning up while the kids run and play in the sun outside. It has been raining all week, so I really appreciate the good weather today! It has been so wet, that I had two plants go moldy! Have you ever had that happen? So bizarre. Of course I am new at this gardening game, so it may be totally normal.

Anyhoo.... have a fantastic day! Thanks for visiting me. Yeah for the weekend!!

love to you~

k

Deets:

Stamps: Pink Paislee Fancy Frames, Sweet Cakes. Hero Arts Thoughtful Messages

Ink: Papertrey Ink Dark Chocolate, Fresh Snow, Summer Sunrise

Paper: Papertrey Ink Dark Chocolate, Summer Sunrise, Stampers White. Scenic Route Polka Dots

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Dark Chocolate Grosgrain, White button, Pop Dots

Mother's Day Gift

Whew! I bet you thought I wasn't going to post today huh? Well actually even I didn't know if I was going to post today. I took these pics yesterday thinking I would put the post together last night. But we had Kindergarten Orientation until late (oh how time flies!) and I was just clobbered by allergies so I laid down for a bit and that little bit became the morning. Which was full of preschool shuttling, playdates and friends. So here I am finally sitting down to share with you my project today. This is another nifty gifty; Mother's Day Style. 

Now indulge me for a bit while I talk about my sweet mother. All my life I remember her being a crafty sort. She is quite the amazing quilter and for many years did toll painting. Now that she is back at work and going to school (to become a principle!) she hasn't had much time for crafting. Well, I visited her a while back and took my stamping supplies. Now I am not sure if she has been humoring me, but she has developed quite the interest in stamping now. We share together our love for our favorite products and she has been stamping her heart out! So in light of this, I thought she could use a box to store her creations in. Enter this years Mother's Day Gift:

I made up a box much like the one I did for the first 365 Cards Challenge. I covered it with some Wild Saffron papers and stamped a tag for the front with her name. 
I made up some dividers using my tab punch and more lovely papers. I also punched a few extra tabs so she can make up some more dividers if she needs them.
I made a card to match using my PTI Mother set and some rub-ons, stickers and gems from the same Wild Saffron line. I added some blue stickles to the yellow circles.
Inside I added a big pack of my favorite 6x6 papers.  I added a belly band with some rope and made up a tag to go with it. I cut out another butterfly from the paper to add to it. Now here is the final kicker... Every year Papertrey Ink makes up their anniversary set given free for those customers that purchase at least 12 of their sets in a year. Now as the final month approached (february) we both were on the phone every week talking about how many sets we had purchased and if we were going to qualify for the coveted anniversary set. We ordered each month with gusto to ensure we would and when it all came down to it, my mom was short 1 set!!!! Apparently we miscounted and she was DEVASTATED to say the least. Soooo I did a little searching and found someone selling a set off of EBay and I snatched it up and added it to her gift! (That is the package in the yellow) Needless to say she is going to FREAK OUT when she opens it. I just wish I could see her face when she gets this, that would totally make my year! The extra funny part about this is that I still have not received my set (which I did qualify for). She kept giving me a hard time about using the set when she wouldn't get one. And now she is getting one and I don't have mine yet! Apparently there has been a glitch in the system and I hope to get it sometime soon. I am kind of stalking my mailman. The waiting is SO painful!

Here is a shot of the top of her new box and her Mother's Day card. It went out today and should show up by the weekend. I told her she couldn't read my blog until she got it in the mail as to not ruin the surprise. I hope she complied!I am so blessed to have a mother that shares my interests and dreams. Thank you to a wonderful mother who has raised me and loved me and is constantly encouraging me to be better. I love you mom!! Happy Mother's Day!!

Thanks for visiting me today! 

loves

k

Deets:

Stamps: Papertrey Ink Faux Ribbon, Simple Alphabet, Mother, Bitty Baby Blessings. Amy Butler Lotus Set.

Ink: Papertrey Ink Pure Poppy, Dark Chocolate. SU! Pumpkin Pie, Hero Arts Soft Pool

Paper: Papertrey Ink Kraft, Vintage Cream. K&Co Wild Saffron

Accessories: K&Co. Wild Saffron Rub-Ons, Adhesive Gems, 3-D Butterfly stickers, corner rounder, 3-D alphas

365 Cards: Think Pink!

Today is my day at 365 Cards and I had such a fun time making up this card! As with my last card, I made up two for this challenge and the second was 'oh so much better' than the first. Here it is:

I figured with all that pink, I would need a little sass in it too. I love this image from Pink Paislee. I put some diamond stickles in the star patch, which is like sass in a bottle! I stamped the large circle from THIS Rubber Soul SET for the background. I started with Raspberry Fizz ink and then topped of with a few white circles. I think its so fun to go through your stamps and see which ones can be used for backgrounds. Usually you will find a few that you wouldn't have thought of originally. The sentiment is from Kim Hughes "Ahoy Matey" Set. Which is so cute too. 

So that is my pink card for today. Hope you like it! It's great fun to do a one-color card. I think I will try it now with each color I own. That would get interesting!

Thanks for stopping by today. Can't wait to see your own creations, so don't forget to link up after you get your Pink on... Good day to ya!

k

Deets:

Stamps: Rubber Soul "It's Your Day" Pink Paislee "Vintage Pop", Kim Hughes "Ahoy Matey"

Ink: Papertrey Ink Raspberry Fizz, Fresh Snow, SU! Basic Black

Paper: Papertrey Ink Raspberry Fizz, Hibiscus Burst, Bitty Dot Paper

Accessories: Papertrey Ink Vintage Button, Embroidery Floss, Pinking Scissors