Amanda's Paper Creations

Do not grow weary...

2012-02-08T11:25:00.000-08:00

This turned out so pretty!! I used the new Twitterpated DSP and some Bright buttons with Lucky Limeade Baker's Twine.

I cut the frame using my Cricut and the Home Decor cartridge.

The scripture stamp is from Verve. Love how this turned out! Thanks for looking!

2012-01-25T07:57:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for the biggest Sale-a-bration of the year? Do you love free stuff?? From now until March 31st, with every $50 purchase you will receive one Sale-a-bration gift FREE!

Items from the on-line clearance rack can be included in your on-line order and count toward your total! Spend $150 or more and you will receive BOTH Sale-A-Bration gifts AND earn Hostess Benefits!
View Sale-a-bration Catalog
It's a great time to host a show or stock up an all your favorite products.

Click on over to my Stampin' Up website now! ;)

2012-01-24T09:54:00.000-08:00

Coaster Perpetual Calendar

2012-01-23T09:55:00.001-08:00

I really love how this turned out! Very simple project with, I think, a 'wow' factor finish. Of course the Everyday Enchantment paper pack is awesome and makes this project too.

I just covered two 4x4 coasters with the patterned paper and then cut some cardstock and corner rounded it. I used a stamp from Cleardollarstamps.com to stamp the actual calendars and months and bound everything together with my Bind-it-All.

Great to keep with you or put on your desk or counter. Good tool to remember to send out those Birthday cards!

Twitterpated Birthday

2012-01-17T09:03:00.000-08:00

I really like how clean and fresh this card is. You'd think with all the gray skies we have here in Oregon that I'd be sick of gray, but I really like Stampin' Up's Basic Gray. And gray really does go with a lot.

This is a good sample of our current DSP in the Mini Catalog, Twitterpated. And the new stamp set Mixed Bunch along with the new punch, Blossom. The label and sentiment are from an old SAB set, Vintage Labels.

You Light Up My Lawn

2012-01-16T10:03:00.001-08:00

This little Gnome is so cute! I just received the Gnome Sweet Gnome set and thought I'd share a little sample. You can get this set from the new Mini Catalog that just started on the 3rd. Fun, fun, fun!

I paper pieced her little apron. Adds that extra special touch. I actually really enjoy and like the look of paper piecing.

Carson's Birthday Goodies

2012-01-13T13:11:00.001-08:00

Today my first born turns 8!! Friday the 13th, whoa! And of course I cannot just bring Hostess Cupcakes to school. Each of the kiddo's has to have a something special too. 34 kiddo's in his class.

I got these adorable mini clothes pins and put magnet on one side and decorated the other with patterned paper and the stars I cut from a Cricut cartridge. Cute, cute! And Carson picked out which colors he wanted me to use.

Then I just wrapped a Kit Kat, Carson's favorite candy. These were super easy and the kids are so fun when I bring goodies to their class. They all squeal and are so appreciative it's really nice.

Seems like yesterday I was holding this sweet little bundle. Oh he was the most gorgeous baby boy.

He's becoming such a big guy. And I am so proud of him. Carson is funny and thoughtful, he cares about others, he is a great big brother and I wouldn't trade him for anything!

I love you Carson. Thank you for making me a Mommy!

Everyday Enchantment Clipboard

2012-01-11T07:04:00.000-08:00

Where do I start? I wanted something really usable to keep my grocery shopping list and my coupons. I remembered I had picked up this 6x8" clipboard from the Dollar Tree a while back and so I decided to embellish it with the new Sale A Bration paper; Everyday Enchantment.

These are mostly all the same colors that I have in my kitchen! Now I can just put it up on my fridge, write down what we need and after I go through the coupons in the Sunday paper, I can just slip them in the envelope on the back! Whala, its all together and I just take it with me to the store!

For the back, I just sealed a kraft envelope and then slit open the top/side. I also just added the adhesive in the middle on the reverse side so that you can really slip your hand in and grab all those coupons.

Thanks for looking today!

Twitterpated Birthday Card Organizer

2012-01-09T10:46:00.000-08:00

I am just in love with this new paper pack! Twitterpated! Lots of great colors and so feminine and just makes you think, 'tea party' and 'spring'. Love it! Two of my favorite things!

I used the Two Tags Die and Sincere Salutations for the front cover, along with the Blossom Bouquet punches to layer on top.

Look how adorable these patterns and colors are together! Lovely!

I almost always add an extra page to the backs of my organizers to keep some anniversary and sympathy cards on hand. Here I used the Four Frames stamp set and the Decorative Label punch. My favorite things about Stampin' Up! = Stamps and coordinating Punches!! ;)

School Pictures

2012-01-04T07:43:00.001-08:00

Here's a little something I've been working on. School pictures for my family. Unfortunately for my family, I cannot just send out pictures! They have to be embellished and given in something cute. But that means that sometimes it takes a LONG time before they get any. ;)

These super simple matchbooks are a great way to share pics. And these include both this year and last years photos! Oh yeah, and soccer too. ;)

Here's my oldest! Cutie pie! I left the pics super simple, just adhered them to the pages and then wrote their descriptions. Names, age, year of school.

Hope you like this little project! They were super fun and I know my family will love them! ;)

2011-12-27T07:46:00.000-08:00

Huge Clearance Sale going on now! Punches under $10! Plus tons of buttons, ribbon, paper and embellishments! You don't want to miss it!

Check it out now! These won't last long! ;) Plus I'm on my way now! ;)

2011-12-22T08:13:00.000-08:00

Stampin' Up has announced that the stocking punch will not be carried over to the new catalog. Once the inventory is depleted, it will no longer be available.

Get it while it lasts!

The item number for the punch is #120495 and it is $16.95. You can order it through me, or through my SU! website, HERE.

The Stitched Stockings matching stamp set can be found in the Holiday Mini Catalog.

Clear mount item number is #123784 and is $19.95.

The wood mount item # is 123782 and is $27.95.

Don't forget about the Clearance Rack on my SU! website, too! Some items are 80% off!! Check it out HERE!!!

Birthday Card Organizer

2011-12-09T08:59:00.000-08:00

Ooohhh so pretty! I just love this new stamp set! Elementary Elegance available January 24th with Stampin' Up!'s Sale-A-Bration! You can earn it for FREE with a $50 order! This stamp coordinates with the Curly Label punch, one of my favorites! ;)

Birthday card organizers are one of my favorite things to make! They are super easy, and make such great gifts, and are one of my best sellers on Etsy too! Again, I used the Night and Day paper pack (it's discontinued so I'm trying to use up my stash! And making these organizers are also a great way to do that!) Plus black and white color schemes are always fashionable.

A couple years back I acquired this calendar pdf template online. I've used it over and over again! It's great!

Here you can see how great these look with cards inside. Such a simple and easy way to stay organized. And when you see that perfect card for someone you can just grab it, put it in your organizer and you're ready when their birthday rolls around!

Prayer Journal Gifts

2011-12-05T10:16:00.000-08:00

I always enjoy making these journals. They are quick, easy and always look great! This one was made with the now discontinued, Night and Day paper.

I generally add 3 sections in my journals. I used the round tap punch to make the labels. Works perfect everytime!

Also for this one I used the polka dotted acetate pages that are included in the Night and Day paper pack. So fun to have the clear dividers! You could write a special scripture or quote on the first page so you could always see it behind the acetate. ;)

The beautiful scripture stamp is from Clear Dollar Stamps. And the cute little cross is from Making Memories.

A few tips for making great journals is to always use a heavy chipboard for both your front and back covers. This increases their usability and durability so much! I also use my bind it all to add the spiral binding. I am considering changing to the Cinch. I know there are some real debates about which one is better. But I really think they both have some pros and cons. ;) Maybe I'll do my own product comparison one of these days. ;)

Hope you have a blessed day! Only 20 more till Christmas day! ;)

Christmas Project Ideas

2011-11-30T10:27:00.000-08:00

Ornament gift tag cards. At 3x3 these darlings fit perfectly into the Stampin' Up! mini envelopes! And though they will be perfect to tag your gifts with they will also make great little notes for co-workers or in your kiddo's lunches!

I really like this color combo of whisper white, cherry cobbler and certainly celery. They just compliment each other so well.

First I cut out 3" scalloped squares in Certainly Celery on my Cricut with the Storybook cartridge. Then I cut 2 1/2 x 5" rectangles out of cherry cobbler and scored them at 2 1/2". Next I cut 2 3/8" squares from Whisper White card stock and ran them thru the Big Shot with the Square Lattice Embossing Folder. After adhering these together I then stamped the ornament image from the Delightful Decorations stamp set in Cherry Cobbler ink onto Whisper White card stock. Punch them out with the Ornament Punch and using a dimentional adhere to the card. I then tied a knot with Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon and attached with a glue dot.

So easy, quick and delightful! Hope you enjoyed this cute little number! Now go make some of your own! ;)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-25T14:52:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple pictures of the goodies I brought to share with my family for Thanksgiving!

Give Thanks for Chocolate! ;) I do!

Who couldn't use an extra bookmark right?!

Hope you all enjoyed your day and counted your blessings!

Hugs!
~Amanda

You Don't Have To Wait For BLACK FRIDAY With Stampin' Up!

2011-11-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

SAVE UP TO 60% ON HOT HOLIDAY DEALS & 24 HOUR STAMPIN' UP! SALE!!!!

SAVE 20 to 60% on Stampin' Up! products! The Stampin' Up! On-Line Extravaganza Sale is here! click HERE to find the On Line Extravaganza Sale.

The On-Line Extravaganza Sale ends Nov. 30.

To see everything on sale during the On-Line Extravaganza, click HERE for the PDF link.

There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.

For product bundles, you must use the bundle item numbers provided. Bundle discounts will not be applied if individual item numbers are used.

Additional products from current catalogs may be purchased on the same order.
Discounts range between 20 and 60 percent.

24 HOUR SALE TODAY ONLY!!!

For the next 24 hours, take advantage of a 20% discount on two of Stampin' Up!'s hottest new products, Simply Scored Scoring Tool and Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps.

The 24 hour sale ends at midnight MST today!

Thanksgiving Favors

2011-11-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

So how is it that every year it seems that Thanksgiving just sneaks up on me? I don't know. This year however, I am so in love with this beautiful Spice Cake DSP that I just want to use it, use it, use it!

These adorable favors are so easy and wouldn't they be cute at each place setting or as a token to send away your guests with?! And please, who doesn't love some chocolate? Especially at this time of the year. he he he!

Super duper simple and quick, you can whip these up! Oh, don't forget the kiddo's teachers too!

Supplies Used:

Pear Pizzazz Card Stock (119795), Spice Cake DSP (124003), Day of Gratitude Stamp Set (121148), It's a Wrap Holidays Stamp Set (122772), Cellophane Bags 3"x5" (103104), Decorative Label Punch (120907), Top Note Bigz Die (113463), the Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439) and Hershey's Milk Chocolate Nuggets ~ yum! ;)

Gratitude

2011-11-14T12:36:00.001-08:00

I just love the new Spice Cake patterned paper from the current Holiday Mini. It is simply beautiful paper and SO me! ;) Here is just a cute little card I whipped up this weekend and thought I'd share.

I used the Fun Flower Die and the Decorative Label Punch. These coordinate so well together and with these stamps!

I also tried a little variation here and used the More Mustard card stock in the background of the flower here and just liked how the two cards look a bit different.

Remember, stamping INSIDE the cards is such a hot trend right now.

Supplies Used:

Crumb Cake Card Stock (120953 ), Very Vanilla Card Stock (101650), Spice Cake DSP (124003), More Mustard Card Stock (100946), Day of Gratitude Stamp Set (121148), Posy Punch Stamp Set (Hostess Only 122482), Decorative Label Punch (120907), Fancy Flower Punch (118073), Designer Printed Brads In-Color (122940), Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder (117335), Fun Flower Bigz Die (121812) and the Big Shot (113439).

Prayer Journal

2011-11-09T13:14:00.001-08:00

Here is a fun and beautiful prayer journal I recently added to MY ETSY SHOP.

I've been trying to use up some older stashes of paper. I love this series from Chatterbox. I've probably had it for 6 years or more!

Scripture stamps are from Clear Dollar Stamps.

Thanks for looking today!

FALL BLESSINGS BANNER

2011-10-21T11:06:00.001-07:00

I am so excited with how this turned out! I just love the Spice Cake paper pack from the current Stampin' Up! Mini Catalog. It is so beautiful!

Fall Blessings Banner and Blocks
Kits are now Available!

The only things you will need are a Chocolate Chip Classic Stamp Pad, a Stamping Sponge, 2 way Glue Pen, Stampin' Dimensionals, and 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo Brads
If you have some similar supplies, substitute with what you like.

Included in the kit:
· All the cardstock and Designer Series Paper pieces, already pre-cut for you. Including letters!
· Decor Blocks
· A step by step written and photo tutorial on how to put it all together.

Because this kit is being mailed and not e-mailed, I have to charge for postage :(

US residents - kit price $30 (includes $5.20 Priority Shipping)

Sorry, banners are no longer available!

Jonah Time!!

2011-10-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

Whoo hoo! This Thursday I am leaving for my bi-annual scrapbooking retreat at Camp Jonah!

3 days and 3 nights of glorious paper crafting bliss! An 8 foot table all to myself, home cooked meals, amazing women all in a beautiful Christian atmosphere. I'm telling you ladies ~ there is NOTHING better!! This will be my 5th retreat and I am so excited. This (I believe) will also be the biggest scrapbooking retreat ~ 60 ladies attending! SA WEET!!

Our theme this fall is Blessings. Beki Duke has put together three devotionals, one for each morning and what a beautiful perspective they will bring us. Yes, I got to have a peek at them already! ;) I love how it's not about what kinds of blessings we have been given like material things, but rather how God uses our circumstances to bless us. And what a blessing it is to TRUST in Him. Love it!

I am so excited to see all the familiar faces again and lots of new ones to meet. It is gonna be another beautiful retreat!

Here is a peek at something all of the ladies and staffies will be getting this weekend!

Hee hee hee! Camp Jonah here I come! ;)

October Big Shot Promotion

2011-10-01T09:47:00.000-07:00

LOOK AT THIS!!!

An offer to DIE for!

If you've been looking for an opportunity to do what you love, while getting a 20% discount on your favorite products, now is the perfect time!

During October, you'll get a FREE Big Shot (or up to $100 in FREE Stampin' Up! products) when you join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator.

Use the Big Shot die-cutting machine and Stampin' Up!'s exclusive dies to create uniquely beautiful projects in a flash.

In addition, the new-demonstrator Starter Kit--a steal at just $175--it contains over $345 worth of stamp sets, card stock, ink, accessories, and business supplies-everything you need to start your new business.

There are so many benefits of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, including
A 20 percent product discount!
A free monthly issue of Stampin' Up!'s demonstrator-only magazine, Stampin' Success!
Sneak peeks at brand-new products!
Invitations to exclusive Stampin' Up! events!
Regular get-togethers to stamp!
Free access to an online community of 30,000+ crafters/stampers and creative artists, as well as 160,000+ project samples!
Plus, access to an exclusive video and training for your new Big Shot!

Don't miss this BIG deal! Join today right HERE. Let's get going, Big Shot!!

Taylored Expressions Blog Hop

2011-09-21T07:44:00.001-07:00

This month's theme is Birthday / Birth day. In honor of Taylor having her first baby anytime now! As I have been in the 'back to school' mode, I thought I'd do a teacher's birthday card.

I used TE's 'Extra Credit' stamp set and CTMH's paper. I think they make a great pair!

I don't know about you, but I am so enjoying my kiddo's going back to school. The last two weeks I've just been trying to figure out my new schedule and getting two to three mornings to myself is like a new world! ;) Hopefully I'll be better about adding new creations to my blog to share! ;)

Thanks for popping by today and here's the list of all the participants in this months TE blog hop!

Have a very blessed day!

~Amanda

Stampin' Up! Simply Scored

2011-09-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

How about this! I’m so happy Stampin’ Up! has developed their own scoring system called Simply Scored!!!

Click Here to order your Score Up! today!

I would like to introduce you to Stampin' Up!'s original scoring tool--designed exclusively by and for Stampin' Up! with etched grooves every 1/8" and the ability to score card stock up to 12" x 12". The Simply Scored scoring tool will help you create perfectly measured score marks.

Features of the Simply Scored Scoring Tool

-Comes with a high-quality stylus instead of a plastic bone folder.

-Stylus is ergonomically shaped and features a comfort grip.

-The high-quality metal tips on each end of the stylus--they come in two sizes--glide smoothly over your paper.

-Features a unique set of place markers that let you mark your score lines when creating multiple projects with the same score lines.

-Includes three place markers.

-Additional place markers can be purchased for flawless scoring.

-Includes a hidden storage compartment in the back of the base to hold your extra scoring markers a candy bar and some lipstick! They pretty much thought of everything!

-Accommodates card stock up to 12" x 12".

Product Details

Item 122334 Simply Scored Scoring Tool $29.95

Simply Scored includes: one scoring board, one stylus and three place markers

Dimensions of scoring board: 15-1/8" x 13-1/4" x 1"

Click Here to view the NEW Holiday Mini Catalog

To shop online 24/7 - click here

If you don't have a Holiday Mini Catalog and you'd like one let me know
and I'll remedy that for ya!

Back to School Time

2011-09-01T08:26:00.001-07:00

Well it's back to school time around here and I am SO excited! My oldest will be in 2nd grade, my middle guy will go to Kindergarten and my baby is gonna go to Pre-school two mornings a week. This is gonna be a whole new world for me!! ;)

Needless to say, I am all about the school stuff right now! ;) So I thought I'd just share a little card I whipped up for the kiddo's teachers.

This is a really fun stamp set from Papertreyink.com.

Thanks for stopping by today! Be blessed!
~Amanda

One of my Favorites

2011-08-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

These Birthday Card Organizers have been a long time favorite project for me! They are super easy to make if you have a Bind-it-All or a Cinch machine. You just pick about 10 sheets of coordinating papers and with a few simple folds and your printer you can create these beautiful books!

For this one I chose to use some of Stampin' Up!'s retired Night and Day patterned paper. It is still available though and for only $4.79 while supplies last!!

I just love to see how all the coordinating papers look when it's all put together!

At the back I usually add an extra page for Anniversary and Sympathy cards to go into. Those are always good to have on hand. These adorable dies are from Clear Dollar Stamps and work perfectly for these organizers.

Hope you like this project, if you'd like me to make a class on this let me know and I'll schedule something for September or October (ya know, after school has started!!) ;) If you're not local and you'd like one of these I sell them in my Etsy store as well!

Thanks for checking in with me today! God's blessings to you today!

Ribbon For Sale

2011-08-26T08:05:00.001-07:00

Looky, looky! I now have ribbon for sale! I was able to purchase a huge amount of ribbon at a really amazing deal so I am passing these deals on to you!

Check out my Ribbon For Sale tab at the top of my blog for all the details!

TE August Blast From The Past Blog Hop ~ Collectors Annonymous

2011-08-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

So the theme for this months blog hop is 'Collectors Anonymous' and at first I wasn't sure what that really meant. But I found out that Taylor wanted us to use things that we normally stash away and hoard because they are too pretty to use or we don't want to waste them or that sort of thing. So that made me really have to think. What do I hoard?

Well fortunately for me, I don't think I hoard much. (I wonder if my friends might say different of me?) But I am one of those truly lucky women who has a craft space of my own and I can pretty much craft/play at any given moment (yes, my house is generally a mess). So anyway, my point is I get to USE all my stuff!

However, I do think I hoard one thing...kits! I am a sucker for kits! Like the TE Key Ingredients kits ~ if you ever want a cool kit (that comes to you in the mail ~ EVERY MONTH!!) the Key Ingredients kits are the ones to try. So many goodies and paper and ribbon and everything already coordinates for ya. Fun, fun, fun. So I think I do hoard kits, but then again I use those too. But I have to keep them in their cute little cases that they come in and keep everything together. ;)

Okay, so are you sick of reading my blog yet? Get on with it right?! Okay, okay, okay here is my first sample! And guess what? I used a TE Key Ingredients kit to make it! It's a kit from sometime last year, and look at the beautiful paper! ~ Yum!

These buttons and paper flowers are from my stash and actually I have been kinda hoarding the flowers lately. But not on purpose! ;) The sentiment stamp is from SU.

And here is my second sample. Actually I made this one first but then decided to change the background paper around (I always make two cards at a time ~ anyone else do that?) and then created the second/first card. ;) Just to confuse ya!

Everything on this card is from a TE Key Ingredients kit and the stamp and sentiment are from TE's Summer Afternoon stamp set.

Well I am really enjoying playing in this months blog hop, I hope you will continue on the hop and see everyone elses beautiful creations too!

Blessings to you today! You can always leave me some love in the form of a comment! ;)

Fabric Flower Pin Now for Sale in my Etsy Store

2011-08-08T09:27:00.000-07:00

I am just falling in love with FABRIC!! And why wouldn't I? It's just like scrapbook paper! ;) I am having so much fun with my Big Shot and making these adorable flower broaches. So many fun options with them. I have been pinning them to my t-shirts, but they are also so cute on hats, handbags, purses, even gloves.

I have taught, I think, 5 classes on these now and they always make a big hit. Some girly girls in one class really liked making them into barrettes and attaching them on their headbands too. I have taught from 8 year olds to Red Hatter's to make these and they are fun for everyone!

So what could be better than to start selling them on my Etsy site as well? These make awesome and personal gifts and could be for just YOU too! ;)

If you're interested in a class let me know. Or just order one today!

H2H66 Heart To Heart Sketch Challenge

2011-07-28T08:51:00.001-07:00

Yeah! I'm so excited to be participating in this weeks sketch challenge. What a fun sketch! I used all CTMH product, except the little lady bug. I picked up that little cutie at a scrapbook convention last year.

This is my first time to use this stamp set, Baby Love. It is so cute and it's been sitting here by my desk just asking sweetly to be used for some months now. ;)

To see more examples with this sketch, please visit the Heart to Heart blog.

My camera is still missing, but my sweet Aunt is letting me borrow hers for a little while so I can still post cards and keep up on my etsy site. So that is a nice blessing.

Thanks for stopping by today! Now go bless someone with a card! ;)

Camera is missing!

2011-07-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

Just want everyone to know, I haven't forgotten about my blog. My camera has been missing since last Thursday so I have no way of uploading anything I've been working on lately. I'll post everything as soon as I can borrow a camera or afford a new one.

Please pray for me! It's a little thing but a big thing too. ;) Our house is being painted today and my hubby is home and was having so much fun playing Star Wars with our three kiddo's and I am just so bummed I can't take any pictures of it! ;)

Blessings to you all!

TESC142 Taylor Expressions Sketch Challenge

2011-07-21T10:32:00.001-07:00

I used almost ALL Taylored Expressions product on this baby. The paper is Echo Park from a previous Key Ingredients kit I got some months back and the stamps are from their Much Appreciated set. So cute!

The pendents for the banner I made with my Cricut and my Tie The Knot cartridge. And the smaller banner I made with a Stampin' Up! Bigz Die, Petal Cone.

I think it turned out pretty darn cute! Loved this Sketch challenge! I think this is the first I've gotten into the new 'banner trend' and I do like it. ;)

Of course I had to stamp the inside as well. ;)

Thanks for looking today! ;)

Fun Flowers Birthday Card

2011-07-18T10:58:00.001-07:00

Oh, I just LOVE these flower dies! They are so versatile. And this color scheme is one of my favorites. This is a super simple and easy card to assemble and packs a major punch! ;) lol!

I cased this card from this scs example. I love to start with an idea and then make it my own.

Supplies used:

Big Shot Die-cutting machine 113439
Fun Flowers Bigz Dies 121812
Little Leaves Sizzlits Dies 114511
Subtles Paper Stack 117152
Daffodil Delight Card stock 119683
Scallop Trim Border Punch 118402
Word Window Punch 119857
Modern Label Punch 119849

CTMH Annotations (happy birthday) stamp set

Thanks so much for stopping by today! ;)

My Baby Girl is 3 Today

2011-07-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet Dalaina. 3 years ago I was in labor, hard to believe sometimes. What a joy she is, and a challenge. Our sweet little 'package of personality' we like to call her. This picture was taken last week at Yaquina Head Lighthouse on the Oregon Coast.

Here she is having fun at our local water park. She is such a little sparkler. I love how she giggles and gets excited about things. And she is such a tiny little peanut, this swimsuit is a 2T! And look how big the bottoms still are on her. Petite little package, but she doesn't let anything get in her way.

Here are my three little loves. So now, I have a 7 1/2 year old, a 5 1/2 year old and a 3 year old. How blessed my little girl is too, to have a loving Daddy and two big brothers. And even though she bosses her brothers around, they totally adore her and always watch out for her, love to teach her things and include her in all their games. They are all amazing.

Happy Birthday Lainie~Bug! Mommy loves you! xoxo

Life is like a Bowl of Cherries

2011-07-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

I don't know WHY I haven't used this stamp set before!! It is seriously SO stinkin' cute! ;) I bought this I think last year from CTMH and I can't understand why it's taken me so long to use.

I was in a card making mood yesterday and had so much fun with this stamp set and the paper. One of my little neighbor girls was over and watching while I was making them and just laughed at me as my silly side came out. ;)

And to you I say...Have a Happy Day! Thanks for checking in with me today! Blessings to you!

Materials:
CTMH stamp set: Bowl of Cherries
Paper : CTMH Cherry-O

CIC #31 Punches, Die Cuts, Cut Outs

2011-07-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

I am entering this fun little number in the Clear Dollar Stamps Clearly Inspired Challenge. It's been a LONG time since I have entered any challenges. But I'm planning to do it more often.

For this card I used 3 different punches, all from Stampin' Up! The new Triple Layer Punch, Blossom Bouquet is fun to play with and layer colors.

Then I used the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Boarder instead of ribbon. Fun and a different touch for me. And finally I used the now discontinued Designer Label.

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings to you today!

Pumpkin Pie Birthday

2011-07-13T08:27:00.001-07:00

I love the simplicity and classiness of this card. I stamped the background with pumpkin pie ink using the Always Elegant stamp set.

Thanks for checking in with me today! Blessings to you!

Thanks ...

2011-07-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to rebuild my inventory a bit lately. I am sorely short on Birthday, Thank you's and Baby cards! I'm NOT complaining! I've been blessed with a couple wedding orders here lately and though that is awesome, it cuts in on my time to make cards. ;)

So I've been trying to work on that lately. I have a couple of neighbors who like to come over and purchase cards and I always feel so bad when they only have one or two choices to pick from. ;) I want to be able to give them variety ya know. ;) I mean we do have a Hallmark store just a couple blocks from us. Yikes!

This 'thank you' is simple yet fun. I love this color combo and it's an easy choice for any recipient.

Have a blessed day and thanks for checking in! ;)

Cheery Summery Happy Birthday Card

2011-07-11T14:14:00.001-07:00

The new Beyond the Garden Designer series paper from Stampin' Up! is so beautiful! It's just bright and cheery and happy. Lovely for making birthday cards! Almost makes me wish I had a summer birthday ~ but I wouldn't trade my September Sapphire birthstone for anything! ;)

The flower and sentiment are from two older sets of Close To My Heart stamps that I have in my stash. I hand cut out the flower after I also stamped it onto the card. Love layered looks. And the ribbon is also something I've had in my stash for a while.

I've listed this card in my etsy shop and hope someone will be very blessed by it.

Thanks for stopping by today! Now go bless someone with a card today! ~ Amanda

You Always Do The Nicest Things

2011-07-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

This is one of the new stamp sets in the Summer Mini catalog ~ Happy Greetings. I really like this set. The sentiment sizes are great for making a focal point on your cards.

I also used one of my favorite punches ~ Decorative Label. See, look how great these sentiments work with this punch! That's my favorite thing about Stampin' UP! ~ stamps and coordinating punches! Sooo Fun! ;)

Now, this paper is discontinued, sorry. But I still have some left and I love these color combo's. And of course you can copy this layout with any color scheme!

Thanks for stopping by! Blessings to you! And as always you can leave me love by leaving a comment! ;)

Masculine Prayer Journal

2011-06-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

Here is a masculine prayer journal I made and sold on Etsy recently. This is an oldie but goodie paper set from Close To My Heart. The rustic browns and blues make me think 'MAN' so I thought this would be good for a men's journal.

This 'prayer journal' stamp is from Clear Dollar Stamps. I've used it tons of times. Prayer journals are one of my favorite projects to make.

Again, Clear Dollar Stamps offer some of my favorite scripture stamps. I usually make three sections in my journals and stamp a scripture for each divider. It gives a really nice touch.

I print all the paper myself and coordinate the lined colors with my patterned papers. Details, details, details. I use the Bind it All to make my spiral binding. I am thinking of upgrading to the Cinch soon though. With as many journals as I make I think this may be a bit more user friendly.

Thanks for stopping by today! God's blessings to you!

Birthday Boy Party Invitations

2011-06-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

These are so fun! Bright colors and two new stamp sets ~ to me anyway! The image stamps are from Recess in the SU Summer Mini and the sentiments are from Inviting in the current SU main catalog. Love'em both!
This little guys birthday is going to be at a local neighborhood park and they're gonna have a 'field day' theme. When I heard that I knew this set would be perfect!

I really like how simple yet striking this invitation set is. Very crisp and not foofy. ;)

Thanks for checking in with me today! Hope you like these new sets too! I have a feeling I'm gonna get a lot of good use out of them. ;)

Have a great day!

2011-06-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

Oh I just think this card is scrumptious! I was reminded of that word on Sesame Street recently. Gotta love having kids! ;) Anyway, I think that word describes this card wonderfully! This houndstooth paper is SU from the Night and Day paper pack, and it's being discontinued so hurry quick to get yours! The ribbon I just have in my stash and don't remember where I got it from. The large butterfly is from PaperTreyInk, one of their dies. And the small butterfly is from the Martha Stewart punch. The sentiment stamp is from SU from Sincere Salutations.

Thanks for checking in today! Blessings to you!

Retiring Stampin' Up! Products

2011-06-01T08:02:00.000-07:00

Today is June 1st and you know what that means...the day we all find out which beloved stamp sets and accessories are being discontinued from the Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog to make room for all the new products in the new catalog coming out on July 1st!

Discontinued Stamp Sets can be found HERE.

Discontinued Accessories can be found HERE and updated daily.

Discontinued Definitely Decorative products can be found HERE.

Discontinued stamp sets, Stampin' Up! will manufacture to fill demand. However, the accessories are first come first served, so don't delay in ordering! You can place your order with me - online HERE.

Sorry if my links are not working ~ they seems to be out of order and I've tried to fix it but it doesn't seem to change anything.

Please check out my Stampin' Up! website for all the sale and discontinued merchandise info: ABCandE.stampinup.net. Thanks!

Teacher Appreciation Week

2011-05-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, so what do you think? I got the idea of the mini shopping carts from my Stampin' Up! upline, Becky Roberts, when she did a gift for her bff a while back. They are so little and cute! They are from The Lakeside Collection and I bought these 3 from them a while back to have on hand. I am so excited to give them to the boys' teachers!

The cute little apple is from Papertrey Ink and I hand cut it and pop dotted it to the front of the cart. I hope the teachers will like these and keep them on their desks.

I made them each a little post it note holder. Paper is all Stampin' Up! and the apple and sentiment are from PaperTrey Ink and the letters and numbers in the background are from a $1 stamp I picked up at Craft Warehouse.

I filled the carts with goodies from Bath and Body Works. Fun little lotions and anti-bacterial gel and a candle. Then I stopped at World Market and got them a mini box of Altoids mints. Just a few little things to hopefully helped them feel refreshed during the day.

Thanks for stopping by today! And blessings to all the teachers this week! ;)

May is National Scrapbooking Month

2011-05-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of giving scrapbooking a try? It is easy with Stampin' Up!'s National Scrapbooking Month promotion where we have a wide selection of scrapbooking products including select stamp sets, select professional print products for My Digital Studio and special digital download bundles for My Digital Studio

at 30% off.

Click HERE to see what is on sale.

And - this is the perfect opportunity for those of you who are or want to be digital designers to join the Stampin' Up! family. During National Scrapbooking Month, new demonstrators will get 30 % off the Digital+ Starter Kit.
In addition, new demonstrators can purchase the Stampin' Memories Add-On kit for 30 % off, as well!

The Stampin' Memories Add-On includes:
1 stamp set
1 card stock pack
1 Designer Series Paper pack
1 Quick Accents pack
1 Designer Printed Album (12" x 12")

Regular price for the Add-On kit is $50. Now it's on sale through May 31st for just $35!
Digital+ Starter Kit (valued at more than $320!) regular price is $175.

Sale price through May 31st is $122.50! How about that?!

Click on over to my Stampin' Up! website and see all the goodies for yourself!

Oldy but a Goodie

2011-04-20T07:56:00.001-07:00

I got this idea from Diana Gibbs last year! Love it! And everyone cracks up when they read it!

Stampin' Up!'s Chocolate Bunny stamp and PTI paper. Nice combo! ;)

Butterfly ~ Just Because

2011-04-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

I just love the colors and simplicity of this card. Using the Butterfly dies from Stampin' Up! and a border punch and some pearls! So springy! It's fresh and clean and I just really like it! ;)

I got a big Stampin' Up! order yesterday so I'll be posting some new creations here soon! Thanks for looking today!

SCAL and Stampin' Up!'s Vinyl

2011-03-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

I have recently discovered the joy of owning SCAL (Sure Cuts A Lot). SCAL connects your computer to your Cricut so you can virtually die cut any font or image you can find online. It is AMAZING! So I've been playing with it a bit this week and altered these fun plates.

The plates already had the flowers on them, and I just loved them. So I thought it would be cute to add a fun word to them. Using my SCAL and the Lucida Handwriting font, I cut these words on black vinyl and they turned out pretty darn good.

What fun, plates like these would make for unique personalized gifts! By the way, the plates were purchased at my local Home Goods store for a $1.99 each! The vinyl is from Stampin' Up! which you can purchase through my website and it comes in a ton of great colors!

The ENJOY plate is for my Aunt. She wants to use it as a cookie plate for her Bridge club ladies. Great idea!

Thanks for stoppin' in today! Blessings!

St. Patrick's Pots of Gold

2011-03-20T18:21:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share these very fun little 'Pots of Gold' I gave out to my boys' teachers and all my neighbors.

These are so sweet and lots of fun to make. I painted a 3" terra cotta pot with black craft paint and then did a 2nd coat with a metallic black to give it a bit of a shine. Don't you think the Leprechauns pots of gold have some shine to them? I think they must. ;)

Then I hot glued some random different green ribbons to the rim and added a button shamrock and a little tag that I created with The Print Shop.

Inside is some gold shredded paper filler and 3 gold hershey's nuggets and a chocolate gold coin. Are you aware that it is darn HARD to find those silly gold coin candies!!?? I went to 8 stores not to mention, the dozen that I looked at on line to find them! That is a little obsessed I know, but the pots HAD to have gold coins!! ;)

I wrapped them up in cellophane a tied them with a sweet Irish Blessing that I found online. My kiddo's had a lot of fun handing these out to their teachers and knocking on ALL the (18) neighbor's doors to wish them Happy St. Patrick's Day. That's the best part. It's so fun for me to make these little goodies and then it's so fun to surprise people and give them a little something that they totally didn't expect!

Thanks for checking in with me today and May God bless you and fill your home and heart with gladness and cheer! ;)

Oh ~ I'll be posting my April class soon so keep checking back!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

2011-03-06T10:17:00.000-08:00

Today I wanted to share with you a little whim I had last week. I don't really know why but I have been really wanting to decorate for St. Patrick's Day this year. I also did a little research on line and found out more about the holiday and about St. Patrick. It's pretty interesting stuff! ;)

However, it is pretty difficult to find nice and inexpensive decorations for St. Patty's Day. So I decided I'd make something of my own. It's not like I don't have enough supplies around anyway, right?!

I grabbed some Wild Wasabi, Pear Pizzazz and Whisper White card stock and sat down with my Cricut and the Storybook cartridge. I made the banner out of 3" Wild Wasabi kinda rectangle scallops, then the Whisper White is 2 1/2" rectangle scallops. The letters are made with Pear Pizzazz card stock at 2 1/4". Then the flourish is also Pear Pizzazz at 1 1/2" and I shadowed it with the Wild Wasabi.
For the crown I used the Home Decor cartridge and made it at 1 1/2" with the Pear Pizzazz and Wild Wasabi shadow combo. The ribbon is a fun green with gold edge I had picked up at Michaels at some point.

I hope you enjoy my little project. Thanks for lookin'!

More Flower Fold Dies

2011-02-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

Here are some more pictures of fun ways to use the Flower Fold dies.

See the post below for more info. Have a blessed day and add a little bling! ;)

March Flower Pin and Card Class

2011-02-24T15:04:00.000-08:00

Is that FABRIC? Why YES it is! lol! This is the new Stampin' Up! Springtime Vintage Designer Fabric and it is darling! In my class this month you will have the opportunity to view this in person and get your hands on it!

In class we will also create this coordinating card to use to give our pins as a gift. If you can part with them! ;)

The Flower Folds die actually has 4 sizes and this is the smallest size flower on one of my daughters little beanies. But think of hats, purses, handbags, t-shirts, headbands! Just think of all the endless possibilities for these sweet little guys!

EDIT: Class is full! Thanks ladies!!

Class will be held at my house on Friday evening, March 11th at 7 pm
Cost is $12 all supplies included. If you bring a friend who hasn't been to one of my classes before then the cost will be dropped down to $10 for both of you! And if you place a Stampin' Up! order with me I will drop your class cost down to $8!

Please call or email me ASAP to sign up and reserve your spot, I only have 6 spots available!

Oh these are so so so so Fun! My wheels are turnin' with all the ideas for where you can use these! Where will you use yours?!

Don't forget Sale-a-bration is still going on! With every $50 purchase, you get to choose a FREE Sale-a-bration item!

Kids' Valentines

2011-02-13T22:57:00.000-08:00

Here are the pics I promised last week. They don't really show but each one has a tie at the top for the tag and holding it together. These are really fun and easy to make ~ believe me, I've made a bunch! lol!

The original idea and pattern comes from Becky Roberts and her 12 Days of Christmas Tutorials 2009. And I've just tweaked it some to fit my needs. ;)

Valentine's Mini's

2011-02-05T22:56:00.001-08:00

Okay, so it's totally like me to try to be in two places at once. Especially when it comes to my kiddo's. Both of my boys have their class Valentine Party's on the same day, of course, but also at the same exact times! And no unfortunately they are NOT in the same school yet. One's in First grade and the other is still in Pre-School. So that is my dilemma this week. Hmm...

These little treats are made with Papertrey Inks Tiny Treats: Valentines. I loved these so much but they sold out last year so I couldn't get them until after Valentines Day so I HAD to use them this year! lol! I totally copied this layout from the gallery on Papertrey's blog. So cute and simple. Love it.

I am going to use these same little stamps for both my boys' classes but they want to give M&M's with their Valentine's so I'll show you later this week what those are gonna look like. So fun!

Just Sharing a Cute Baby Shower Order I'm working on

2011-01-31T13:31:00.000-08:00

These are gonna be so cute when their all done. This is for an Etsy customer of mine. And they want between 100-125. I'll probably be tired of them when I'm all done, but what a darling treat they will be at the shower! I love all these colors! This paper was my customers choice, it is from Echo Park their new Little Girl's line.

All these bright, fun colors. Love 'em! Definitely lots of stamping here. These will also be topped with some ribbon, a flower and tag.

February Workshop ~ Featuring the Decor Accents Blocks

2011-01-27T12:45:00.001-08:00

These little blocks are so cute when decorated! Instead of stamp clubs for February I'm offering this workshop. We will be decorating these blocks with 4 different themes. And get to try and play with with lots of different products!

This workshop will be held at my house on Friday, February 11th at 7 pm. Cost is $20 and includes all your supplies and a lite snack. Please email me if you'd like to sign up. Space is limited.

Lions and Tigers and Bears...Oh My!

2011-01-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

These are a fun little favor that I sell on my Etsy site. They hold two Hershey's Milk Chocolate Nuggets. Yum! And they make a big hit at Baby Showers! The paper for this set is My Mind's Eye, from their Alphabet Soup line. I just wanted to share them with ya because they turned out so cute!

Thanks again for the order April, hope you have an awesome Shower!

Sale-a-bration starts in 3 days!!

2011-01-22T08:28:00.000-08:00

Can you believe only 3 more days until Sale-a-bration starts? I'm so excited!!

How would you like to fill your Stampin' Up! wish list and enjoy a discount on all your purchases? With the launch of the Sale-A-Bration promotion on Jan. 25, Stampin' Up! is offering a special Starter Kit just for YOU.

Choose either the Standard Starter Kit or Digital Starter Kit and save $15% ($148.75)
PLUS: You get the following bonus bundle absolutely FREE (a $50 value).

119883 Heart to Heart (or any punch), on page 202 in the Idea Book & Catalog

120806 Something Special Simply Sent (or any Simply Sent) on page 183 in the Idea Book & Catalog

117114 Live, Laugh Love stamp (or any Simply Sent Stamp) on page 183 of the Idea Book & Catalog

121620 Color Coach on page 165 of the Idea Book & Catalog

I ♥ FREE stuff, don't you??

Here are the details:

Save 30% on your first product order of $150 or more (placed within 45 days), plus earn hostess rewards AND receive a minimum of three Sale-A-Bration gifts (1 for every $50 in product purchased).

IT'S GOOD TO KNOW: There's no penalty to drop and you keep the kit and everything you purchased at a discount! You'll enjoy full demonstrator privileges through March 31, 2011. To remain active beyond June 30, 2011, $300 in product sales is required - including your own purchases!.

Starter Kit ships FREE.

SIGN UP ONLINE and enjoy instant benefits. Go to ABCandE.stampinup.net Click on Start Your Own Business.

January Blessings On Paper

2011-01-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

We are making these 4 beautiful and fun greeting cards! All supplies are from the new Stampin Up! Occasions Mini Catalog that just started on January 4th! So many fun new collections to sample! I love the chocolate set! ha ha ha!

The cost is $8 and everything will be supplied there for you! If you haven't signed up yet, please send me an email and let me know if you're coming!

This card is made using the Bold Blossom stamp set. The butterfly and blossoms are so adorable. Although you may get tired of me by the end of the evening making you cut these all out by hand! ;) And the so saffron taffeta ribbon, yummy. ;)

Same with this one. I also added a glitter brad, lovely. And I used the Designer Buttons ~ Subtles collection. Oh these are amazing!

This is the Eat Chocolate stamp set. Too fun! I also added some liquid glass to the chocolates to make them look even yummy-er and I sprayed the Rose Red card stock (after embossing) with some homemade glitter spritz. I love that effect.

And this card just makes me laugh. It is SO me. lol! I am a list person and a chocolate person and having 3 young kiddo's sometimes this is how I feel. ;)

This Friday night class will be so much fun. I absolutely LOVE all my ladies that attend. See ya Friday!

Adjustments to My Happy Place

2011-01-03T20:33:00.000-08:00

Okay so most of you know that My Happy Place is still in the very new stages. So that means that I will have tweaking and adjusting to do as I figure out the best way for everything to function in here. ;) And I like to SHARE those processes! lol! Things are really starting to fill in here. ;) Just ignore the right hand side, like from the end of the desk and over, I'll fill you in on that area another day. ;)

In my last photos of my room this section of wall was still pretty blank. So I've added a couple extra towel bars and the picture ledge with frames. Everything seems to really fit in place nicely and flows well.

Looky ~ looky! I am so excited about this! Okay so you know I am a new Stampin Up! demonstrator. Well I am not one that already has a collection of SU ink pads. I had previously really only had Close To My Heart ink pads, which I loved the way that I stored them and kept them so handy with the Ikea shower caddy's and towel bars. Now switching over to having SU ink pads, well...they don't fit the same way! And I don't really want a bulky ink pad tower on my desk. So look what I came up with!! It's the same Ikea shower caddy's I just turned them on their side! They still can hang from the towel bars and then I just (get this!!) twist tied the two caddy's together and just hung the top one from the towel bar. he he he! Each caddy can easily hold 8-10 ink pads, although keeping it to 8 is much more accessible. And I can just keep adding extra caddy's as my collection of ink pads increases. The caddy's are $1.99 and so is the towel bar. Pretty cheap!

In this picture you can really see the difference in how the two types of ink pads store in these caddy's. Also you can see that I keep my scrubber and spray handy in the top tray. My sponges are right next to that in the white hanging bowl. And next to the SU ink pads are my clear blocks. Everything within reach, in view and so accessible for all my stamping projects. You can see too that I hang my heat gun on a hook here and it is always ready when I need it. I really am a person who likes things in one room, everything in one place and within reach when I am organizing. I don't like to have to keep getting up to get something from somewhere else. ;)

This part is so much fun! I got this chunky frame and decor element in the bundle with the last Stampin Up! promotion and I love the way that it looks! I just haven't decided if I want a color or black and white picture in it yet. ;) And the Ikea frame next to it ~ they just totally look like they go together. Love it. Also the picture ledge is from Ikea too.

I think I'm gonna call this my 'Paper Manipulation Station'. lol! This is still one of my favorite finds. Purchased from Craigslist last year, it is such a nice piece of furniture and it really functions well for crafting. It's almost counter height so it's awesome for all my paper cutting, scoring, embossing and punching.

A bit of glare here, but more true to color for the wood of this piece. ;)

I LOVE having all my punches up now and I can see all of them in one place.

In the bottom right hand side cubby I use this large accordion file to store all my scrap paper. I love this system. It is organized just by color, so whenever I need a piece of red paper I can just go through that first before I start cutting anymore full sheets. Especially when I just need a bit of paper for a punch, it's really nice to have that handy. Also in that big green box is all my 'stuff' that I use with my Cuttlebug. Keeps everything within reach.

Thank you so much for checking in with me and my progress with My Happy Place. This has been such a joy for me and it's so much fun to share!

Have a blessed day!

By Jove ~ I think I've got it!

2010-12-26T22:31:00.001-08:00

The new name for my craft space... wait for it, wait for it... "My Happy Place!" What do ya think?! It IS my happy place! It's where I do so many things that I love; craft, create, teach, look at my computer, talk on the phone, hide from my kids...oops you didn't read that last part. Ha! ;)

I feel so blessed to finally have a room of my own to create in. Being able to spread out and work on multiple projects at a time, it's awesome!

This week I'll be posting some new journals and cards (hopefully) on my Etsy site. And here on my blog I'll be sharing pics of the Blessings On Paper January class cards we'll be making. All with fun new product from the new Occasions Mini that is just starting on January 4th!

Also there are only a couple more days to still order from the Holiday Mini Catalog! So if you've been waiting for your Christmas money to buy something special ~ don't wait any longer! ;) You can check that out on my Stampin Up! website at ABCandE.stampinup.net. Just click on Shop Now in the top right hand corner and then Holiday Mini on the left hand column. So many fun and beautiful things! Also don't forget about the Filled with Love promotion. You can read more about that in the post below.

Hope you all had a VERY BLESSED CHRISTMAS!! I know I did. I am so thankful to have such a wonderful family to share the holidays with. Blessings to you and don't forget to check back with me this week for more pics and updates!

2010-12-16T09:23:00.001-08:00

Are you ready to start thinking about Valentine's Day? You better just for a minute, so you don't miss this great promotion. Valentine's Day is the second highest card-giving holiday next to Christmas and Stampin' Up! has a new promotion for us! Starting tomorrow, from December 17, 2010, through January 24, 2011, receive a FREE package of Bitty Buttons (a $4.95 value) when you purchase the Stampin' Up! Filled with Love Bundle.

The Filled with Love Bundle contains the Filled with Love Stamp Set (in wood-mount or clear-mount) and the exclusive Love Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack. The Bitty Buttons are a great addition to the bundle. So many cute things you can make with using them!

To order the Filled With Love Valentine's Bundle or any other products, please visit my online store HERE.

My New Craft Space

2010-12-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, now keep in mind that this is a transformation of a garage! ;)

Originally my desk and shelves had been built into my entryway closet. So we (hubby and I) took those out and put them in the garage. I got the Jetmax storage cubes at Michael's on the Black Friday sale for my desk legs. and then it is just mounted on the wall in the back. I am going to put up some more of the Ikea towel bars above my desk to keep my tools handy.

Here is my table for all my ladies to come over and have stamp clubs. I had 6 ladies at a time this weekend and no space problems. Yeah!

Behind this curtain hides my furnace and hot water heater. Who wants to have to look at that! ;)

This may be my favorite part of the room. I picked up both of these cabinets off of craigslist.com. I love how I have space to display all my Stampin' Up! catalogs on the white cabinet and then I have the whole brown cabinet set up as a cutting station. All my cutting, scoring, embossing and punching supplies are here. And on the side I mounted an Ikea magazine rack for all of my card base papers. Love it!
And last but NOT least! Here is my Cricut and mailing station. And this is the entry into the room. I am so happy with my new space and love how it functions and allows space for me to share with others.

Thanks for stopping by! Have a blessed day!

You are Invited...

2010-12-08T10:08:00.000-08:00

I am so excited!! And I want you to join me!

This Sunday, December 12th from 2 pm - 4 pm I am having an Open House!

Please come and enjoy a free make and take, look at my new Stampin' Up product, drink some yummy cocoa or apple cider and see my new craft room!!

You can also sign up for a Stampin' Club, if you haven't already. I have just a couple spots left in the second Friday of the month club and am mostly open in my second Wednesday of the month club.

These clubs are awesome! Each month you get to come to my house and learn a new technique or project for FREE! Then as a club member you will have the opportunity to order new products (just a minimum of $25 is required) and build your supplies gradually. Everyone gets their chance to be 'hostess'. That means on your month to be hostess you will get at least one stamp set plus $15 in FREE product! It's a lot of fun, so don't wait! You can even call me and sign up today!

December's Blessings On Paper Class

2010-12-05T09:42:00.001-08:00

Friday night was so much fun! We had an awesome turn out, everyone was literally blowing in! lol! We made these super fun 4 piece chocolate boxes and a bunch of gift tags.

Today my family and I are home SICK!! I hate being SICK! Argh! So if you have a few extra minutes I'd appreciate your prayers. I have so much on my mind right now, with Christmas card orders, journal orders and my Open House and Craft Room Debut on the 12th! I NEED to get better ASAP! ;)

Blessings to you all! Thanks for checking in today!

Supplies for 4 piece chocolate box: Deck the Halls Designer series paper, Crumb Cake card stock, Cherry Cobbler and Always Artichoke Seam Binding, Tags til Christmas Clear Stamps, Extra Large Decorative Label punch, Medium Oval Punch. And Hershey's Milk Chocolate Nuggets. All supplies available to purchase on my Stampin' Up website (except the chocolate!!;))

2010-12-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

This is hilarious! You have to watch this video for a good laugh! I love Retro! ;)

http://www.scrapbook.com/pages/sunny.php?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Image+-+It%27s+Always+Sunny+in+Here!+-+A+Scrapbook.com+Music+Video&utm_content=kowalkermemories%40msn.com&utm_campaign=DAY+2+-+2010

First Day on the Job!!

2010-11-24T08:20:00.000-08:00

Would you like today to be your first day on the job? It could be!

Stampin' Up! is offering a Simply Amazing promotion.

Can you believe it?... you can join the Stampin' Up! family and my team for only $87.50. That is half price folks!!!! You can purchase either the Standard or Digital + Starter Kit at 50 % off the regular price..... plus free shipping! And the kit is worth over $300 in product! And you can totally customize your kit with what you want!

This is a great time to get a new business started. With the upcoming holidays, the stamping and sharing opportunities are everywhere!

Here are a few details:

Available Nov. 15 thru Nov. 30!

Take 30% off your first $150 Stampin' Up! product order (placed w/in 45 days).

Save 20% on all other orders

Pre-order from the 2011 Occasions Mini and Sale-A-Bration catalogs starting Dec. 1. Sale-A-Bration is around the corner and free stamp set opportunities multiply!

Enjoy tons of learning tools, including video tutorials on the Stampin' Up! demo site.

IT'S GOOD TO KNOW: There's no penalty to drop and you keep the kit and everything you purchased at a discount! You'll enjoy full demonstrator privileges thru March 31, 2011. To remain active beyond March 31, 2011, $300 in product sales is required.

What are you waiting for? You don't want to be late for your first day on the job! Ü

Online Spectacular Event Stampin' Up Sale

2010-11-22T13:23:00.000-08:00

ONE WEEK ONLY!!

This morning Stampin' Up! announced an online spectacular event for one week only. From now until November 30th!!

During this one week only, YOU can get incredible discounts--up to 50 %-- saving BIG on your favorite products, as well as qualifying for FREE SHIPPING with orders of $150 or more!

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE LIST OF DISCOUNTED PRODUCTS

Then call me at 503-484-4278 to place your orders! Whoo hoo! If you need to see a catalog let me know and I can bring one to you or you can come over for a visit! ;)

Mt.View Community Church's Girls Night Out

2010-11-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to have been invited to teach a couple classes on Christmas cards at the Mt. View Girl's Night Out! This is the card we will be doing. I have two classes at 35 minutes each, so we'll just be doing one card. This is a great one to start with, it is simple but has that fun 'WOW' factor! I used all Close To My Heart products, except for the Christmas Red Stickles and the Stampin' Up Dimentionals.

And can I just take a moment to say that not all dimentionals are created equal! Now I have been one to use whatever 'cheap' adhesives I could find, Dollar Tree is just fine to me. However, since I have now experienced the Stampin' Up Dimentionals ~ I WAS WRONG!! These are superior! They come off their sheet so easy and they aren't too thick and then their backing is so easy to remove too. Just thought I'd let you know that! lol!

I'm taking a month off from making ACES

2010-11-15T07:43:00.001-08:00

Hello Ladies!!

Well SO much has been going on this month already! So I have some big news to share with you...(drum roll please) ...I am going to be a Stampin' Up demonstrator!! Yeah! I am so excited to start sharing all their fun goodies with all of you! My personal favorite is how many of their stamps coordinate with their punches!! Our Christmas projects this year are gonna be such a delight! ;)

I plan on starting classes at my home in January and in preparation for that we are transforming our garage into a classroom/office! Erik and I have painted all weekend and I got some carpet and it's just coming together so beautifully. I can't wait to share it with you so... here are a couple pics for ya! ha!

This is obviously a BEFORE picture. Now prepare yourself for a bit of shocking color!

And that's all I'm gonna show you for now! I wanna keep you in a bit of suspense! lol!

So needless to say, I am taking the month off from creating my ACES. I will be teaching this Saturday night at Mt. View Community Church for their girls night out and we will be creating a Christmas card. Just one...I only have 35 minutes! ;)

Then next Saturday, November 27th, I will be back at Mt. View for a Christmas Bazaar! Fun, fun!

Novembers' Blessings On Paper Class

2010-10-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

So...Are you impressed yet?! lol! This month we are going to make these darling 12x12 plaques with a matching candle holder. I have made mine to coordinate with my living room. I am providing you with a shopping list at the end of this post for the supplies you will need so that you can make your plaque and candle holder to coordinate with either a room in your house or a holiday.

I stamped my images with versa mark and then embossed them to really make them 'pop' when illuminated. Think how adorable these would be with scripture stamps or holiday images and colors. The class supply fee includes a flameless candle too!

For embellishments, I noticed this paper had some circles within the design so I added some glittery brads to give it a little more 'pop'. Not that you can tell from my pictures! ha! I plan on hanging this in my living room with a collage of our family pictures around it.

Blessings On Paper November class will be held on Friday, November 5th at 6:30 pm. Cost for supplies is $6.00. Sign ups will begin this weekend at church OR if you know you're not going to be at church this weekend you can email or call me and I'll get you signed up. We are only getting one weekend of sign ups this time.

Your shopping list:
2-3 12 x 12 designed papers
1 sheet of either 8 1/2 x 11 OR 12 x 12 card stock for candle holder base
coordinating paint that will adhere to canvas
1 yard ribbon
Your choice of embellishments, ie; buttons, brads, glitter, ribbons, etc.
We will be providing brown and black embossing powder, if you need another color you will need to pick that up as well.

I will also have some important news to share with you this month at class. Please be preparing your hearts for that new update.

I still need a couple more ladies to share hand made Christmas gift ideas, if you have one you'd like to share please let me know ASAP!

Thanks for checking in today. Now leave me some LOVE in the form of a comment! Hugs!

Taylored Expressions October Blast From The Past Blog Hop

2010-10-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Whoo hoo! I am so excited to be included in this blog hop! My very first ever! And what fun it is with Taylored Expressions! I have been getting her Key Ingredients Kits for about the last 4 months and have SO enjoyed them. They are awesome and such fun to get in the mail! I am totally a fan! lol! Then when I saw her blog post about this blog hop I jumped right in on it! Yippee! I am using the CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS set and it's just beautiful. It's all about my Jesus so how could it not be right!!?? ;)

Here is the full view of my card. I love the 'Simply Jesus' sentiment. All I did was stamp the image on card stock and gave it a little Smooch. I think it has a rustic elegance about it. Hence the twine tied to the wide grosgrain. ;) I also dry embossed a frame about a 1/4" all around the card. Kinda hard to see that in the picture but it really adds something to the card.

This is my first experience using Smooch and I have to say, I like it! It has a really fine tip applicator and just gives your work that extra touch.

In this shot you get a closer look at the dry embossing I did around the edges of the card and a bit more of the Smooch!

Well I hope you liked my card and my first submission in a blog hop. I hope it's the first of many! Make sure you check out the rest of the fun examples and share some love with your comments!

HOPE is here!! New ACES October Release!!

2010-10-15T13:01:00.001-07:00

Whew another month is flowing by already! This month I have created a beautiful set of cards focusing on our HOPE in God and His promises. My hope with these cards is that they will be an encouragement and comfort to those you send them to to keep our perspectives in a heavenly focus.

* Due to the handmade nature of these cards, buttons and ribbons may vary. Also I do reserve the right to make minor changes of equal or higher value.

Changes for my Amanda's Christian Encouragement Series

2010-09-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

Whew! These last two months since I released my first two sets of ACES has been a whirlwind! Creating the cards, receiving orders, ordering more paper, buying new ink cartridges, receiving more orders, ordering more paper (again!), then creating more cards and well you get the picture! lol! Now, I am NOT complaining! Please be sure of that. ;) However, some of you may not know, that I also teach a paper crafting class on the first Friday of every month. So what I just didn't realize before was how busy the last week of the month would be with preparations for both my ACES and my class!

Not wanting to lower my quality in either case, I have decided to change my release dates for my ACES to the 15th of the month. This will allow me to stretch out my prep times a bit more. Also instead of 2 sets of cards every month, I will just release one set of cards. I hope this isn't too disappointing to anyone. I am thinking that it will allow me to put more focus and details into my work and make them even more beautiful for you!

Well those are my changes...new release date and one set of cards at a time. Any questions or comments are always appreciated. Thank you so much for your encouragement and your business!

~Amanda

September's Taylored Expressions Key Ingredient's Kit

2010-09-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share some of the fun cards I've been creating with this month's TE Key Ingredient's kit. Have I mentioned lately how much I love getting this kit every month!!?? They are so much fun!

Within the last 6 weeks or so Erik and I have had several friends and relatives experiencing some serious tragedy's, illnesses and losses. So needless to say the 'thinking of you', 'praying for you' and 'sympathy' cards have been heavy on my heart lately.

Our prayers go out to Marissa who was in a terrible car accident within her first week to college as a Freshman; Gary who has been diagnosed with Lymphoma Cancer, and my sweet young cousin Connie whose best friend of 16 years died after falling off a horse just days before they both were to leave for their Freshman years in college. Though we know not why God allows these things to happen, we take comfort that they did not come by surprise to Him and that He is always with us through them. We trust that in each situation God's glory will shine.

Purse-onally Perfect for Blessings On Paper

2010-09-18T20:31:00.000-07:00

For our next Blessings On Paper (BOP) class, October 1st we will be making these adorable purses with Becky Roberts tutorial! Love this! And to go inside our purses, I have designed 4 (super simple) cards that are made with just the scraps from our purse papers!

Sign ups begin this weekend at church! And I have made up a shopping list for each attendee so you can make it with your own choice of papers and embellishments!

My Shop Space

2010-09-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

Today I thought I'd share what I think is a pretty great idea for my little shop space at home. On the wall behind our front door I hung up a vinyl window cling as my shop 'sign' and then I used some IKEA towel racks, the same ones many of us use for our punches. With the help of some hooks and the coordinating baskets, I can hang all my cards and display my journals and card sets. All of it is so reasonably priced as well, the towel racks are $1.99, the hooks are .99 for a pack of 10 and then the baskets I think are $3 or 4. Right now I have about 50 cards hanging plus the 3 baskets, and everything is easily accessible.

Now I have a sweet little wall that serves as my 'shop'! I have a couple neighbors, friends and family that do come here to look at my inventory and buy right off my rack! Stay tuned...later this month I will share with you my crafting space. ;)

Heart 2 Heart Challenge and a little family update

2010-09-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

Wowzers! It's been way too long since my last post! I just can't seem to keep up! When you have a husband and 3 little one's life just seems to fly by in a whirlwind! Can I hear an AMEN out there!?

I really just want to get in on another Heart 2 Heart challenge though. I am inspired by everyone else on there every week, so I should be sharing too, right!? ;) This is a card I did a while back, but it fits right in with this weeks theme; 'sentiments'.

For those of you who'd like a personal note ~ both of the boys started school last week. Carson, 1st grade; 'Mom, that is a really LONG day!' ;) And Benjamin, 4 year old preschool class. They are both so cute and love to go to school this year. Ya know, Carson wasn't too keen on kindergarten. But now he gets to have lunch everyday at school and two recesses, so it's cool. ha!

Dalaina is having Monday morning play dates with Aunt Rosie and Uncle Terry and loves that too. Here are a couple pics to update ya! Thanks for checking in with us! Hugs!

2010-09-01T04:00:00.001-07:00

They're here!!

The second two sets of Amanda's Christian Encouragement Series ~
Love and Forgiveness.

~ Due to customer request all verses this month are in NKJV ~

Love ~ 5 Card set with scriptures focusing on how we are to walk in God's Love!

How often we as believers need a bit of encouragement to walk the good walk and fight the good fight! The Word says 'they will know us by our love.' These beautiful cards will certainly encourage other believers in their walk with the Lord to continue loving others even when it is difficult. Let your sisters and brothers in the Lord know when you are lifting them up in prayer.

Each set comes with 5 matching envelopes and packaged in clear plastic boxes ready to use or give as a gift.

* Due to the handmade nature of these cards, buttons and ribbons may vary. Also I do reserve the right to make minor changes of equal or higher value.

$12.00 for the set of 5 cards, plus $4.95 for priority USPS shipping

Forgiveness ~ 5 card set with scriptures focusing on God's Forgiveness

These beautiful cards will certainly encourage other believers in their walk with the Lord. Let your sisters and brothers in the Lord know when you are lifting them up in prayer.

Each set comes with 5 matching envelopes and packaged in clear plastic boxes ready to use or give as a gift.

* Due to the handmade nature of these cards, buttons and ribbons may vary. Also I do reserve the right to make minor changes of equal or higher value.

$12.00 for set of 5 cards, plus $4.95 for priority USPS shipping.

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H2H Challenge ~ Stitching Up Some Artwork

2010-08-23T20:40:00.000-07:00

Whoo hoo! I am finally participating in an H2H challenge! That's the main reason I started this blog in the first place! Isn't it sad how life takes over sometimes and you just don't end up doing the things you wanted to? Well, it's okay, because I've still been up to some great stuff, just not always according to my plan. ;)

So this weeks H2H Challenge is about stitching and since I have almost never sewn and I don't own a sewing machine, I use the very first stamp set I ever purchased from CTMH: Simple Stitches! Adorable! My card is from my new ACES set: Peace. I used the Splendor Paper and ink colors and my verse was done on my computer! Hope you like it!

Sticky Tape by Flight of the Conchords ~ SO Funny!

2010-08-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

This just made me laugh so I wanted to share it with you!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fycGFGSeKpc

Let me know what you think!

Whew...It's been too long!

2010-08-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

Well I just thought I'd put in a post here so ya'll wouldn't think I just disappeared! lol!

Thank you SO much for all the love and wonderful response to my first ACES release! I am just trying to keep up at this point! I have had to order more paper to create more cards ~ TWICE!!

Also by customer request, I will be making all my ACES cards now in either NKJV or NASB.

Only 14 days till the next ACES release!!

God bless you today!

My First Release of ACES!! Available NOW!!

2010-08-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

They're here!!

The first two sets of Amanda's Christian Encouragement Series ~

Peace and Salvation.

Peace ~ 5 Card set with scriptures focusing on God's Peace

These beautiful cards will certainly encourage other believers in their walk with the Lord. Let your sisters and brothers in the Lord know when you are lifting them up in prayer.

Each set comes with 5 white envelopes and packaged in clear plastic boxes ready to use or give as a gift.

* Due to the handmade nature of these cards buttons and ribbons may vary. Also I do reserve the right to make minor changes of equal or higher value.

Salvation ~ 5 Card set with scriptures focusing on our Salvation in Christ.

I created these cards with the idea in mind that they can be used to encourage those you are witnessing to and praying for. Then I realized that they were also good to encourage new believers AND to remind those that have been 'saved' for a while to rejoice in their salvation, meditating on the miraculous work that Jesus accomplished on the cross ~ redeeming our relationship with our Heavenly Father!

* Due to the handmade nature of these cards buttons and ribbons may vary. Also I do reserve the right to make minor changes of equal or higher value.

Postage: 1 to 4 sets will be charged a flat rate of $4.95 for priority shipping. 5 sets and more will be charged a flat rate of $10.70 for priority shipping.

Mojo Monday 148

2010-07-21T10:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is my first Mojo Monday challenge that I'm participating in. AND I'm still using my new Taylor Expressions Key Ingredients Kit. I'm loving it. It's so me! lol!

I used the Daily Designs stamp set from Papertreyink.com, along with the Daily Designs Sentiments. Such awesome quality stamps.

This sketch was kinda hard for me, not sure I really like what I came up with, but it was good to stretch myself. Hope you enjoy my blog! ;)

Count Down to ACES First Release! 11 Days

2010-07-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that it is only 11 days until the release of my first two sets of Amanda's Christian Encouragement Series. Peace and Salvation!

In case you don't know what I am talking about...Erik had a wild hair idea a couple months back and now I am designing 10 sets of cards to encourage people in their Christian walk. Each set will have 5 cards and they will be based on a theme, such as Peace, Salvation, Forgiveness, Love, etc. I will have two new sets available each month for the next 5 months. Each set will cost $12 ~ way less than buying cards from Hallmark! :) I will sell them both here on my blog and also on my etsy shop.

I never imagined I'd be doing something like this. So 11 more days and you'll get to see what I've come up with.

My First Taylored Expressions Key Ingredients Kit

2010-07-19T09:55:00.001-07:00

I just began a 6 month membership for the Taylored Expressions Key Ingredients Monthly Kit Club. I got my first kit in the mail on Saturday and whoo wee! Beautiful! And such fun colors and paper and ribbon, oh my! Here are a couple samples of what I came up with. I had so much fun using this combo!

I also used PapertreyInk's blooming button bits! I love all the button bits stamp sets! PapertreyInk's Tea for Two and Tea for Two Additions along with their matching dies! Ooh I love those too! And I used Taylor Expressions Summer Afternoon.

Whoo Hoo Cupcake Wars!

2010-07-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

This morning I received a sweet little email letting me know that one of my cards is featured in a Treasury on Etsy! Cupcake Wars! Here's the link so you can check it out, it's adorable!

I love seeing how creative people can be!

Happy 2nd Birthday Dalaina!

2010-07-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe my sweet little (and I do mean PEANUT) baby girl is two today! What joy she has brought to our family. Adding a little girl has changed the dynamics of our family in ways we could never have imagined. And what a little package of personality she is! She is funny and sweet and loving and tough. She likes pretty dresses and digging in the dirt. She is talking so much earlier than our boys did and it is hilarious the things she says. Her sweet little whispery voice is like a little bit of magic.

Both of her big brothers adore her and they have so much fun together as long as she isn't turning off the DVD player in the middle of their favorite movie! Dalaina, I am so blessed to be your Mommy. I wouldn't trade you for anything! Hug!

Blessings On Paper August 6th Class Project

2010-07-14T10:01:00.000-07:00

This month for our BOP class we will be making a Photo Box! I picked out this gorgeous Bo Bunny paper line called Kitchen Spice. So pretty and summery, I really love it. I think this box will be great to share summer highlight photos. But the color scheme is really flexible so it will work well for all occasions.

The cost for this class is going to be $8.00 and that is for all of your supplies. I know great deal right! ;) I take care of you ladies! ;) Sign ups will begin next weekend, July 24th and 25th at our church's weekend services. Mark your calendars, you don't want to miss this class!

Amanda's Christian Encouragement Series Cards

2010-06-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

New release date scheduled for August 1st.

There has been some delay in getting stamps made. This is a much longer process than I originally thought. And I'm not sure if I'm still going with Clear Dollar Stamps or not. I am still very excited about the whole process and am sure everything will be beautiful when it's completed. I do have my layouts and designs ready for some of the cards so that does make the waiting a little harder for me! I can't wait to show them to you! Just think, buttons, ribbons, rhinestones and beautiful colors! Plus God's amazing Word! Ooohhh, it's just killing me not to show you! lol!

I have created a new page here on my blog and so you will be able to purchase these cards from me directly! You don't even have to go over to my Etsy shop!

Super Cute Stationary Kit

2010-06-29T08:05:00.001-07:00

Here's another share of what I've been creating this summer. This adorable stationary kit idea came from one of my favorite bloggers: Becky Roberts. She comes up with some of the best stuff! And she sells her tutorials so you can learn to do her projects yourself! Love that!

Well this little stationary set is a free tutorial she has and here is what I came up with for it. I used the Boom-Di-Ada CTMH paper pack. I just love how it turned out, so fun, summery and cheery.

Becky definitely has more details for you on her blog, but this set holds 4 note cards and envelopes, a note pad and a pen. How cute is that!? She uses a magnet for her closure but I picked up some cute little clothes pins at Craft Warehouse so I decided to use those. I still want to decorate it with a strip of paper too.

2010-06-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

Oh I am so excited with how this turned out! This week I purchased the Filled With Flair template from Papertreyink.com. And I tried it out! I already had some Papertrey patterned paper so I used that too. Look how fun this is! I got this idea from Nichole Heady on her blog. What an amazing package! This stationary set has 30 hand stamped labels so you can make this set fit any occasion!
Now I want to make a bunch of these in all my favorite patterned paper sets!

Oooh, maybe Christmas cards would be great this way! I may have just had an idea for my holiday bazaars this year!! Yea! (Sorry my pictures are like everywhere on this post, I haven't figured out how to place them with my text. ???)

Heart 2 Heart Challenge ~ Color Challenge ~ Buttercup, Black and Tulip

2010-06-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Ooh, I think I love color challenges! This weeks challenge was to use Buttercup, Black and Tulip and make a card with them. Well what awesome colors to use together ~ love it! I've been wanting to use my "A Posy" stamp set and haven't yet so I whipped that baby out and this is what I came up with!

I used Papertreyink.com's white card stock. I used my Cuttlebug to emboss the Tulip card stock, then sponged the edges. I mounted that on the buttercup textured card stock and added black brads. I then stamped the posy in Buttercup, the stem and leaf in Sweet Leaf and the center in Tulip. I made an extra flower center and leaf and used dimensional adhesive to pop them up and add some dimension.

I'm really pleased with how this turned out and I love the color challenge! Yea!

My Playlist

2010-06-20T22:43:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day my LOVE

2010-06-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to put a Happy Father's Day out there for my sweet, sweet hubby. You ladies out there will realize very soon that I am a mushy wife. lol! ;)

So...Happy Father's Day Honey! I am so blessed that you are such a loving, hardworking, head of our home type of Daddy! You are doing a great job, especially NOT having had an example to follow. I appreciate you and LOVE you tons and tons! Keep up the good work!

Looky Looky! I'm a featured artist on Invitation Buzz's Blog today!

2010-06-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Wowzers! How cool! Invitation Buzz's blog featured two of my cards today! What an honor. And they have a GREAT site! Make sure you check them out and my cards they featured are available in my etsy store!

Heart 2 Heart Close To My Heart Challenge

2010-06-16T07:22:00.000-07:00

Father's Day Card ~ This week's challenge was to create something with scraps and recycled 'stuff'. Well my stuff isn't exactly recycled, but it does sorta have that look. lol! I used my Cuttlebug on the craft paper to emboss it. I used Verve stamps and some twine in the button.

Sentiment says: "I'm so proud to call you..." on the outside and inside says: "HUSBAND, Happy Father's Day." I just love that. So often I think we forget to appreciate our hubby's.

Blessings On Paper

2010-06-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Day two on my blog...I thought I'd tell you a bit more about me. Or about something that I am doing, I guess. In May of this year, I started teaching a paper crafting class at my home church, Greater Gresham Baptist. I have been so blessed at the amazing response, we had to cut off the class sign ups at 30 (!) because I just wasn't sure about how to facilitate that many woman and provide all the supplies! The class turned out wonderful and I was so blessed.

This class, I endearingly call 'BOP' has confirmed I am right where I am supposed to be. Using my gifts to bless others. I LOVE it! Every which way around it; planning, preparing, doing the shopping, holding sign ups, facilitating the class ~ it is all such a joy. We have just had two classes now and there is so much to learn and I just think it's gonna get better and better. We won't be having a class in July because our church's VBS is the same week, but I already know what we are going to do for August! ;)