The Weekend Stamper

Goodbye for Now.

2011-06-05T08:57:00.000-05:00

I know you haven't heard from me for a while, and it doesn't look like it is going to get any better any time soon. My life has suddenly become extremely hectic and complicated, and while I was hoping it was going to let up, it hasn't. I need to let some things go for a while. Unfortunately one of the easiest things is letting my blog and blog finds go. I'm sorry that I have to make this decision, and I'm definitely going to miss you. I will be back, I just don't know when. So for now I'll just say, see you later!

Matt Made Master!

2011-05-21T07:55:00.001-05:00

My wonderful hubby was just notified that he made MSgt. I'm so excited. This is the last promotion we needed in order for him to retire at the pay level he wanted. This means that in exactly 3 years and 10 months we will no longer have to worry about Afghanistan, Iraq, or anywhere else in the world that needs some military support. I made this card for him. I'm so proud of him!

My Pretty Punch art Princess

2011-05-20T07:26:00.000-05:00

As some of you know, I am a member of VC Rocks (VC stands for Virtual Convention). This is a yahoo group that gets together every spring through fall and disbands over the winter. Anyway, this year I am hosting a card swap. Sugar and Spice is all about girly cards and inner princesses. So, to honor my card swap, I created this cute little princess. Isn't she adorable?

Princess Card

2011-05-19T07:50:00.000-05:00

I'm hostessing a VC Rocks swap this week. Sugar and Spice, and everything nice.... :) We had to make girly girl cards. For those of you that know me, you realize this is slightly outside my comfort zone. My son is probably more girly than Katie is, and I'm definitely not girly at all. But this is what I came up with.....what do you think?

Chocolate Chocolate Everywhere!

2011-05-18T08:40:00.000-05:00

Since we are new to the area, I joined Matt's unit's wives group. This month we had a Chocolate night. Everyone brought something chocolate. With a little help from my German friends, I was able to obtain some German chocolates to bring. Since some of the candy had alcohol in it, I wanted to make sure everyone knew which ones were which (guess that is m

y substance abuse training, I would hate to have someone in recovery eat the wrong kind!). So, I broke out my chocolate stamp (that I never used......even though it is no longer available. Dang move!) and made these little labels. I think they turned out really cute, and of course the chocolate didn't last. It was so yummy!

Easter Baskets

2011-05-17T08:34:00.000-05:00

A month or so ago I was able to participate in a great bulk buy run by seaside crafts (if you haven't checked them out yet, go to Yahoo groups and take a moment. They get amazing deals on some really cool crafting stuff!). Anyway, one of the items I bought was these cool clear paint cans. I decided that they would make great Easter Baskets this year, so I used my big shot and some DE sheets to decorate them. As you can see, the bunny matches the bunny clues I showed you yesterday and the Chick one matches the chick clues I forgot to take pictures of. The kids loved them and they are packed away with the reusable clues for next year. I love it when my crafting bug actually creates something that is useful!

Easter Hunt

2011-05-16T08:29:00.000-05:00

This year we decided to put together a hunt that was a little different. I had thrown away all of my easter eggs, and didn't really want to buy some more. So, Matt and I spent an afternoon putting together bunnies and chicks for the kids to find instead. On the back of each of these was a letter. Once the kids found all the clues, they had to unscramble the words to figure out where their baskets were hidden. I forgot to take pictures of the chicks, but here are the bunnies. Matt made these all by himself. He was so proud. I did laminate all the pieces so we can use these over and over again.

VC Rocks Blog Hop- Color My World

2011-05-14T07:20:00.001-05:00

I'm so lucky to be a part of VC Rocks again this year. VC stands for Virtual Convention......a group that exists only during the summer for those of us that are super excited about the Stampin' Up! yearly convention. This group is open to everyone, not just SU! demos who want to participate in a virtual convention. During the summer we have several blog hops, so this weekend is just the first of some amazing projects.

Our theme this time around is Color My World. As you can see from my card, I

interpreted the theme to mean watercoloring. I always was in awe of the amazing watercolored projects I see all over the internet. I always thought it was too hard though. I'm not an artistic person, so I believed that watercoloring was outside of my talent level. Boy was I wrong! With SU!'s watercolor paper, ink, and an aqua brush I created this gorgeous card! Trust me if I can do it, so you can you.

This card was made using Always Artichoke, Old Olive, So Saffron, and Tangerine Tango ink. By using the water to blend the colors you can come up with amazing hues. Like I mentioned earlier, I used the watercolor paper as well as So Saffron, Always Artichoke and Tangerine Tango card stock. For best results, you should also use a detailed stamp. For this I chose Elements of Style. I love the way this turned out....don't you?

Now, if you want to see some more amazing coloring techniques make sure you visit Mary Campbell's blog. And if you didn't just come from Ellen Kemper's blog, make sure you go back and check her's out as well. Enjoy the rest of the hop!

Easter Blast back

2011-05-13T07:29:00.000-05:00

If you remember, my computer wasn't accepting my camera's card over Easter, so I wasn't able to show you any of my cool Easter projects. I thought I would do a flashback to Easter over the next couple of days so I could show you everything I made. This first project was for my co-workers. I filled these little guys with jelly beans and handed them out the Friday before Easter. They seemed to like them, and they sure were fun to make!

Sympathy Card

2011-05-11T07:24:00.000-05:00

I think I mentioned that Matt was gone over Mother's Day. It wasn't by choice. His Grandfather passed away and he went home for the funeral. Due to distance and funding, we weren't all able to go, but I wanted his Grandmother to know that we were thinking of her. This is a card I had made at a downline meeting. I like the fact that hope was a part of this card. Sympathy cards are always difficult, but I know she is a strong woman, and I know she has the strength to get through this.

My parent's 50th Anniversary Invite

2011-05-10T07:20:00.000-05:00

So, Mom and Dad were here over Easter. Mom sat down in my stamp room and helped me figure out exactly what I needed to do to "fix" her invites. I wasn't happy with the ones I showed you yesterday. We decided that embossing gold on gold and using an embossing folder to meld the numbers into the card would make it look so much better. So, without further ado, these are Mom and Dad's anniversary party invites. I think they turned out pretty good. What do you think?

My parent's 50th Anniversary

2011-05-09T07:16:00.000-05:00

So, like I mentioned yesterday, we are throwing my parents a 50th anniversary party. I can't even imagine being married to Matt that long (after missing Mother's Day, he may be lucky if we last until 15! :) ). I wanted to put together their invitations using Gold, since it is their golden anniversary. These though just didn't tickle my fancy. I only have one stamp set with numbers, so I was pretty limited in the 50, but I was able to play around some more and come up with something I liked a little better. But this is the trial run. I'll show you the finished project tomorrow.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T07:11:00.000-05:00

I found this awesome tutorial to make a gerbera daisy and a vase on Sweet Pea Stamped Art. My parents' 50th wedding anniversary is coming up and we are throwing them a party. Since My mom had daisies at her wedding, I thought about making these as table decorations for their party. I wanted to do a trial run to see how hard they are to make though (not super hard, just time consuming!). Since Mother's Day is today, and since my hubby is in Maine and my kids didn't do anything for me. (I know, a pity party for myself!). I decided to make myself a present. I think it turned out pretty cool. What do you think? Can I get about 45 of these made before the end of June?

My Mother's Day Card

2011-05-07T07:09:00.000-05:00

I needed to make a card for my mom. I've decided that this year, I would actually use the cards I've been making. No more hoarding them and then giving them away when I get ready to move (which is what happened this last time). So, I put this card together and actually got it in the mail on Monday!!! Wow, a card made, AND sent on time. Maybe this really is a new leaf for me!

Stamping at Jay's Class

2011-05-06T07:50:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Jay's teacher, Mrs. Prather, invited me into the classroom to help the kids make Mother's Day Cards. While I did prep the flowers for the card, the kids did all the stamping. Each one was able to pick their own flower and card color. Needless to say we had some interesting combinations, but I'm sure all the mom's will love them!

Stamping with Jay is always exciting

2011-05-05T07:53:00.000-05:00

This is from a different crafting session with Jay, but I have to say, stamping with him is always fun. This time he had me thinking outside the box a bit. He decided he wanted to be a Ninja for the day. He had all the black clothes and gloves, but he was missing a mask. He didn't want me to make it for him, he wanted to do it himself. So, a little bit of cardstock, some black marker and some SU string, and he was good to go. Later we did make him a name tag that said NINJA on it, just in case anyone had any question.......

My Red Black and White Card

2011-05-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Jay thought it would be fun if we both made cards with the same colors. Yesterday you saw his, and today I'll show you mine. This card was for my extra special German friend, Ela. She has been awesome at keeping me in German chocolates since I moved. She has sent me two care packages full to the brim with all the great German stuff I love! The inside of this card says "I miss you!" and boy is it true!

Jay's Creation

2011-05-03T07:48:00.000-05:00

As I told you yesterday, Jay was the first to volunteer to stamp with me in my new stamp room. He decided he needed to make a card for me. We have been working on his spelling skills, so the alphabet stamps seemed to be the perfect choice. He also picked out the colors (and I had to make a card with the same ones. I'll show you that tomorrow). The inside says I love you. I couldn't ask for a sweeter little boy!

I'm finally Back!!!

2011-05-02T07:45:00.002-05:00

Ok, computer issues solved, stamp room unpacked, entire house relatively straight. I am finally back. Just in time too. VC Rocks (virtual convention) just started! So, I now can show you some of the things I've been working on. Since I haven't had a way to post them for a couple of weeks, you are going to see some Easter stuff a bit late.....I sure hope you don't mind.

First up is this card I made for my wonderful son, Jay. He was the first to volunteer to come down to stamp with me in my new room. He wanted me to make him a card, so this is what I came up with. I think he liked it....what do you think?

I'm so Frustrated!!!!

2011-04-21T07:42:00.002-05:00

My house is finally unpacked, and I can play with my stamps.......Which is great. So, I've taken some pictures of stuff I made in the past few days and want to post them to my blog.....well now the stupid computer won't recognize my sd card.......GRRRRR. Hopefully this weekend I can get hubby to look at it. So, I guess you will just have to wait until Monday for my creative genius. I know, I know...you've waited this long, what's a few more days :) Hope you all have a wonderful Easter, and I promise I'll be back soon with some actual creating!

It's a miracle....My stamp room is unpacked!

2011-04-09T14:19:00.001-05:00

After I showed you my boxed up stamp room, several of you asked to see it when it was done. Well, Hubby went out of town this weekend, so I spent my Saturday morning unpacking my toys! I haven't had time to stamp yet, (still have several other rooms of the house to go) but it was so nice to finally get everything out of boxes! Hope you all enjoy it. I know I am going to.......So, who wants to come over and stamp?

What a Mess!

2011-04-06T08:40:00.002-05:00

Well, as some of you already know.....my stuff finally arrived last Thursday. The past few days have been hectic to say the least. We are finally making progress on the rest of the house, but my poor stamp room has sat there completely neglected. Look at what I have to work with! Anyone want to come over and help me dig my stamps out? :)

Last card from my adopted downline meeting

2011-03-26T09:04:00.000-05:00

This is the last card I have to show you right now. Who knows, maybe I can get some stamping done again sometime soon. This was the second card we made at Jan's downline meeting. I finally got a chance to use Four Frames. Until my stamp stuff gets here, I'm pretty much out of luck. No point in ordering stamps when all my ink is in a box on a boat! Thank you Jan, and everyone else for adopting me into your group. It was so nice to meet all of you!

But wait....there is more!

2011-03-25T08:58:00.000-05:00

Not only did I get to go to Jan's library class last week, but I was also adopted into her downline meetings. Talk about a great group of ladies. They welcomed me with open arms. It was a huge change from the downline meetings we had in Germany. Usually it was just Sara and I stamping into the middle of the night. This meeting had ten of us I think! (Jan did say that was bigger than usual, but anything more than two seems huge to me!). We made a couple of cards there. And Jan, being the ever respectful stamper that she is, made sure I knew who to give the design credit to. This first card we made was a case from Monika over at Add a Little Dazzle. Jan did change up the metal sheet colors though, so I think that makes it an adaptation instead of an out and out CASE, but I could be wrong! :)

My Final library card

2011-03-24T08:56:00.000-05:00

I don't know what it is about this card, but I absolutely love it. Maybe because it has the great color combination. You all know how much I love orange. This was suppose to have a sentiment on it, but I couldn't figure out which one to us, so I left it off. I still think this makes a great little note card. Now all I need to do is make some more friends (who weren't at the class) so I can send it to them!

Another Library Card

2011-03-23T08:54:00.000-05:00

This card was so pretty when Jan did it.....I'm not sure I'm as impressed with my attempt. I just haven't quite gotten down how to watercolor (and you would think after making 50 of those watercolored Christmas cards this past winter I would be a pro!). Oh well, I do love the stamp set. I can't remember if I have this one or not. I tell you, when I finally get my stuff and unpack it will be like Christmas all over again!

I got to stamp yet again!!!

2011-03-22T08:49:00.003-05:00

How lucky am I? Last week, my stamping Angel Jan Hoyt invited me to stamp with her group at the library. We made some amazing cards! And of course, as always, I am going to share them here on my blog. This first card is absolutely gorgeous. I love the black and red combo. And of course that little butterfly makes it so cute. How could anyone say no, to that little guy? This card is going to Jay's new 1st grade teacher. I've never seen that boy so fired up about school before. He can't stop talking about Mrs. Prather, so I know it is all because of her. Now if we could just get him as excited about doing homework as he is about going to school!

My Final INKY Fingers card

2011-03-14T09:14:00.000-05:00

Well folks, this is the last card I made at that card class Tuesday night. Considering my stamping stuff still isn't scheduled to be here for another month, it may be the last one for a while. (Of course, I'm hoping for an invite to stamp at one with one of my new friends before then!). This one uses wild wasabi ink. I wan't thrilled with this color at first, but it has definitely grown on me. If all my new friends hadn't been at that card class, I would send it to them. They made me feel so welcome and at home. While nothing can ever replace stupid hour stamping with Sara, this came close. Thank you again for the open arms. I really enjoyed myself.

One more possibly birthday card

2011-03-13T09:11:00.000-05:00

This card can be used for a birthday, or anything else worthy of celebrating (I may send it to myself if I ever find a day job! Now that would be worthy of celebrating!). It uses some of the new Sale-a-Bration ribbon and buttons collection. I hadn't gotten my hands on any of this stuff yet, but now that I have I want to get some more. These are awesome. Not only do I love the vibrant colors and that they all match, but they are FREE (with a $50 purchase). What more can I ask for?

My MOM's birthday card

2011-03-12T08:08:00.000-06:00

It's a good thing that I was invited to this card class a couple days ago. My Mom's birthday is coming up the 25th of March, and after all the money I spent on a new car, washer and dryer, and furniture I barely had the money for a stamp, let alone a gift. Luckily this super cool melted ribbon flower card was one of our projects. I'm sure Mom will love it, and I can pretend that I was planning on giving it to her all along....Shhhhh, don't tell her :)

Another Birthday Card

2011-03-11T08:05:00.000-06:00

For some reason, birthdays must have been on my mind. Which is weird....I don't know anyone whose birthday is coming up (well, except my MOM, but I'll show you her card tomorrow.) This card uses the absolutely gorgeous Concord Crush ribbon from our In-Color collection. This stuff is so easy to use, and it really pops on a card. This card also uses my new favorite stuff, Crystal Effects. I love how shiny it makes the number 3. It really pops! Maybe now I'll stop using it only for bottle caps!

I got my Fingers Inky!!!!

2011-03-08T21:59:00.002-06:00

Yes, you read that right. My fingers did get a bit inky today. No, it wasn't my ink, but my demo friend Jan invited me to a card class out in Lebanon, IL tonight. I met an amazing group of ladies who welcomed me into their stamping midst with open arms. So, not only did I make a few new friends, I came home armed with some awesome cards to show you all!

This first card I am going to share is probably my favorite. It uses punches (which of course you all know I love!) as well as this cute little pom pom garland that you can purchase in the Spring mini. (do you hear shopping in my voice? :)

) . How perfect is it for the icing on the cake.....quite literally!

We've arrived, and a Stampy Surprise!

2011-03-05T20:16:00.006-06:00

Yes folks, that's right. We are finally in Illinois. After much trial and tribulation we are getting settled in to the new location, new house, and even a new car. It's been a rough few days, but thanks to my wonderful parents, we have managed to acclimate quite well. Everyone needs a little bit of stress relief though, and Jan Hoyt came to my rescue. I came home today from running around picking up things for the house, setting up my cell phone, and buying groceries to find these delicious treats sitting on my porch. Not only did she give me chocolate, but she also invited me to stamp! Thank you Jan for everything! You are a life saver.

Punch Inspiration

2011-03-01T01:41:00.000-06:00

You all know me and my punches......I love to use them to create new and different punch art. But Jonia over at Stampin for Me reminded me just how awesome our punches can be to create exactly what they were made for! This card is absolutely gorgeous! Oh, and for those that are following our moving saga....well today I'm on a plane headed to the states. We land around 6PM Central time and will finally get to see our new house this evening! I'm sure I'm going to be jet lagged and the kids and the pets will be whining, but I want you to know that my internet will be hooked up tomorrow. So, hopefully blog finds and the weekend stamper won't lag too far behind! Thank you for all your patience while my family and I try and get settled into our new life!

Double Layered Inspiration

2011-02-28T00:42:00.000-06:00

You all know how much I love my big shot. It's so easy to make boxes and bags in no time flat. Well Bev, over at Stampin Ovation gave me a new idea. By making a double layer on your fancy favor box you can create this cute little party favor!

Inspired by Ice Cream

2011-02-27T02:11:00.000-06:00

I bought the petal cone die right before we packed up my stamping room....but I haven't had a chance to use it yet. Well, thanks to Jackie Topa, I do now. These amazing ice cream cone birthday cards are so cute...how can you even resist?

Inspiration with a Tutorial

2011-02-26T00:06:00.000-06:00

I love gathering all this inspiration on the internet, but I have to admit, I'm a bit lazy. So when Madeline Morcelo from the Stamping Studio not only gave me inspiration but also a tutorial, I was jumping for joy. Make sure you check out her post so you can create one of these cute little tissue holders!

Really Cool Wall Art

2011-02-25T02:05:00.000-06:00

Watercolor Wonder Crayons. Yes, I have some....but no, I rarely ever use them. That is until I saw this cool project tutorial by Debbie Martin over at Clever and Cute. I love the way this collage turned out. Now that I have a new house, I need to decorate it. I'm planning on using her tutorial to create some amazing pieces of artwork that match our home decor. Who says stamping is just for cards!

Spring Inspiration

2011-02-24T04:29:00.000-06:00

After all the snow and cold this winter I was in need of some spring time inspiration. Luckily Keri from the Stamping Grounds had exactly what I needed. Daffodils are one of my favorite flowers. Every spring growing up we had Daffodils in the front yard. It was always so heartening to see those bright yellow flowers pushing up through the snow. Now I don't have to wait for spring....I can have my daffodils all year round, although I think that may be the first thing I do at the new house....plant some daffodils.

Bottle Cap Inspiration

2011-02-23T03:09:00.000-06:00

Remember last November when I went Bottle Cap Necklace crazy? Well, It may start again. Especially now that I have seen Nancy's Bottle Cap Keychains over on Creative Wishes. I am so glad that I will be back in the states with the big box stores so I can get all the little extras, (like key chains!) easily!

Easter Inspiration

2011-02-22T02:55:00.000-06:00

When I got this in my email from Split Coast Stampers, I was shocked! An Easter Basket? Already? But then I realized that my sense of timing has been off. I had forgotten Easter was coming, heck, I almost forgot Valentine's Day! So, when I saw this, I figured it would have to be one of the first things I make when my stamping supplies arrive in the states. I just thought it was too cute! Now I just hope I can find the carrots!

Inspiring Ribbon Designs

2011-02-21T01:29:00.000-06:00

I was browsing around the other day and came across this cool ribbon project over on Cristena's blog, Gettin Crafty. I guess a friend of hers makes hair bows, and put together this cool ribbon butterfly. Now my daughter is way too old for ribbon butterflies (according to her), but I'm sure not! Imagine these on cards and presents and scrapbook pages! Now I just need my ribbon so I can sit down and see if I can figure this out.

Another Use for MDS

2011-02-20T01:24:00.000-06:00

You have to go see what Barbara Kempton from Embellish-It did with her MDS. She created this amazing Quilt Square. I've made T-shirts with my MDS, but never thought about using it together with my quilting obsession. I am definitely going to have to try this as soon as I get my printer back :)

Inspiration from the Dark Side

2011-02-19T01:17:00.000-06:00

I just had to share this amazing little box made by Sandy over at Stamp with Sandy. You all know how addicted I am to punch art, (do I need to bring up the Star Trek and Chuck Norris cards?) but I never thought of doing Star Wars. Sandy has done an amazing job of Punching Darth Vadar! I will definitely be trying this one out once my stamp stuff arrives. Hmmm,....wonder what other characters I can make from those movies? I see an R2D2 in my future!

Hippy Inspiration

2011-02-18T01:00:00.000-06:00

Today's inspiration comes from someone who I am honored to call a friend, even though she and I have never met! Marisol from A touch of Sol created this birthday invitation for her daughter's Groovy 60's birthday party. After reading her description of the fun party events she has planned....I want to go :)

How NOT to use your Big Shot

2011-02-17T01:16:00.000-06:00

This was not me, but it sure could have been. Check out Ann over at Stamper Dog to see how NOT to use your big shot!

Cool Button Bracelet Inspiration

2011-02-16T01:10:00.000-06:00

Ok, back in November, I tried my hand at making button bracelets for a craft fair. I really liked the way they turned out, then I saw these from Julie Davison. I have no idea how her's are so layered, but I love they way they look. Besides, what a great way to use those wonderful SU! buttons!

Punch Art Chuck Norris Valentine

2011-02-15T05:00:00.000-06:00

Ok, this project has some background behind it. When I first got into Stam

ping, my husband challenged me to make him a Chuck Norris card. Well, it's been 3 years and it is still the running joke between us. The other night at my Upline Sara's house, he brought it up again. She and I decided that this was the right time and we put together this card for him. The punch art was relatively simple and the other requirement hubby made was that the card be able to kick. He wanted a round house kick, but we couldn't figure that one out......so he just got Chuck Norris's shoe coming at him. He thought it was funny, and Sara and I couldn't stop giggling as we made it.

A Valentine Box for Jay's Teacher

2011-02-14T04:58:00.000-06:00

This idea came from a crafting magazine that Sara had. Of course we changed it a bit, but I love the way it came out. It was a half a piece of card stock scored at 6 1/4 and 4 3/4". It was so simple, and you can fill it with whatever color candy you need for the appropriate holiday. I'm pretty sure I will be making these again!

Can you believe I'm back.....with Inky Fingers!

2011-02-13T04:54:00.002-06:00

After two months of not having any of my stamping supplies, 2 weeks on a boat and another week of dealing with movers I am finally back. Well at least for a little while. My wonderful upline took pity on me this weekend and let me come over to stamp. It took me a little while to get my MOJO back though. This was my first attempt at doing anything. A Love Note/Valentine for my 7 year old son. The longer I look at it, the less I'm impressed, but I do have to admit that things got a bit better as the night progressed. It's ok though, my son thought it was pretty cool!

Weekend Stamper is On Vacation

2011-01-21T01:14:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone! I just wanted to let you know that for the next two weeks, there will be no updates to this blog. I will be cruising around the Med with my family. This is our last trip while in Europe, and I promised them that I would not spend the entire time doing blog finds or working on my blog.....so, I hope you all have a great last few days of January and I'll see you in early Feb!

Charming Inspiration

2011-01-20T01:31:00.000-06:00

Ok, I admit it. When Stampin' Up! came out with these amazing charms, I had to have one. I bought one of the small round ones, and a bracelet. Then, you know what I did with it? NOTHING! It has sat on my craft table for over a year now. I just pick it up and move it from one side to the other. Now, thanks to Mary over at Kreates Kards, once I get it unpacked I know exactly what I'm going to do....Make this awesome purse charm!

Animals for Inspiration

2011-01-19T02:13:00.000-06:00

Today's inspiration comes from Regina Andari over at Workin Out the Inks. To make this adorable lion card, she uses the big shot scallop circle die. What in the world did we ever do before the Big Shot? Did we really cut out all those shapes by hand? Crazy isn't it. Well now that I've seen this lion, I have all kinds of plans for other animals using this die. Can you think of some other's that would work well?

Punch art and 3D What more can I ask for?

2011-01-18T01:44:00.002-06:00

In case you haven't noticed, I'm a 3D paper crafter. Don't get me wrong, I make cards (lots of them actually!) but my favorite things to make are the 3D items. Well today's inspiration comes from Kim over at Paper Punch Addiction. She made this adorable Valentine Bear Tin. The best part? If you take a moment to visit her blog, you can download the tutorial for free! Now is that inspiring or what? :)

Oh, and in case you were wondering where I was yesterday....well I hate to admit it but I completely forgot to post. I guess my brain fell victim to the long weekend. Sorry about that!

Another MDS page by me

2011-01-16T04:19:00.000-06:00

I think one of the reasons that scrapbooking, even digitally, takes me so long is because I spend the time reminiscing. This one especially took me into la la land. Last March, before Matt deployed, he and Katie attended a Father Daughter Valentine Dance. They both looked so great, and she looks so grown up. I think this was the first time either Matt or myself had any idea she was no longer a little girl, but growing up into a young woman. Awww, it's going to make me cry.

Not exactly a blog find.....

2011-01-15T04:15:00.000-06:00

Ok, I don't know if this counts or not, but this isn't off of Blog finds for today. Instead it was sent to me through the Late Night Stampers Demo group by Melissa Johnson. I don't know if Melissa has a blog or not, but these were too cool not to share. She hosted a game night, and made up trophies for everyone. What a great use of her supplies!

Monochromatic- What could be more inspiring

2011-01-14T01:39:00.000-06:00

There is nothing as much fun as watercoloring. Whether you are using the watercolor crayons, the blender pens, or the Aquapainter, it feels just like it did when as a child you sat down with a brand new box of crayons and a coloring book. Now, I am no expert when it comes to watercoloring, but there are many out there who are. Today's card is an example from one of these amazing watercolorers, Ann Craig. She took her watercoloring one step further and made it monochromatic. Now being able to force that many shades of color out of one shade always amazes me. Make sure you stop by her blog and check it out for yourself!

My Favorite color, what more inspiration could you need?

2011-01-13T01:16:00.001-06:00

My favorite color in the whole world is orange. Don't ask me why, I just know that when I have something important going on in my life (a job interview, a test, a big move) and I need to make myself feel less stressed, I wear orange. It works every time. Orange just makes me happy! But orange isn't a color that I use in my stamping very often. Oh, I bring it out in October and November, but the rest of the year it sits in my paper holder getting dusty. And we have such great oranges too....Pumpkin Pie and Tangerine Tango. So, when I found this card on Glenda Mollet's blog, I had to have it for my inspiration for today. Maybe now, when I get my stuff unpacked I have a reason to break out my oranges anytime of year!

Scrapbooking Inspiration

2011-01-12T01:01:00.001-06:00

Today's inspiration comes from an unusual place.....well, at least an unusual one for me. You all know I am not a scrapbook person. I have scrapbooks (almost up to date ones actually), but they are all digital. Way back when my tween was a baby, I did the whole paper and glue and embellishments, but now, in today's busy times, I only use my computer. That's why when I saw this layout by Tracy Raymond I was so surprised at how much it inspired me. I love the way the page looks of course, but I think it was her sentiment that got me that most. I love the thought that we can spend the entire year thinking of it as a clean slate. I can't re-create her exact page, but I can do what I do and make it on MDS. I'll have to show you what it looks like when I'm finished!

Baby Blossoms Inspiration

2011-01-11T01:38:00.000-06:00

Today's "ripped from the blog finds" inspiration is Krista Fenton's Baby Blossoms Card. I don't own this stamp set......YET, but I think it may be on top of my list. I keep seeing such gorgeous cards being made with it. It was so hard this mini not buying everything I saw, but buying a house and moving is going to take up most of our spare cash. Oh well......I'm hoping I'll get a chance to get this set though. I really like it! Maybe you could use your set to make more cards, and then I can show my hubby how important this stamp set really is.......:)

Valentine Robot- Chocolate Inspiration

2011-01-10T01:31:00.000-06:00

Ok, I admit it. I love Chocolate. I was so afraid that my surgery would hinder my chocolate addiction, but I can still tolerate it. Just not as much :) Anyway, when I saw this adorable chocolate robot from Patty over at Patty Creates, I fell in love. Who could resist this technological marvel? Not me! Add another Must Do to my ever growing list! For directions, make sure you check out Patty's post!

A Project- Done By Me!!!

2011-01-09T01:35:00.000-06:00

I know, are you totally amazed? I actually created! How you ask? Why using My Digital Studio. I've decided that MDS is the perfect wa

y to get my creative fix without my stamps and ink. Don't you agree?

Anyway, don't ask what this is all about. A couple adult men, behaving like children! Surfing down the road on a chair! At least no one got hurt. Ahhh, good memories :)

Today's Inspiration- A ribbon blossom

2011-01-08T01:21:00.000-06:00

Ok, I admit it. I'm a ribbon hoarder. I hate to use up my ribbon. It's not like SU! is going to run out or anything, so why I am so hesitant? Well, now I have a good reason to use some up (when I get my stuff unpacked in the states that is!). This Ribbon Blossom card, designed by Lynn Pratt of Stamp-n-Design really spoke to me. It said, "quit being such a ribbon hoarder!" So, now number 5 on my list of Must do's when I get settled in my new house is make a ribbon blossom! Luckily, the tutorial is on Split Coast here. Why don't you all do me a favor.......give it a try for me and let me know how it goes!

Inspiration from NZ!!!

2011-01-07T01:09:00.000-06:00

Today's inspiration comes all the way from New Zealand in the form of a card from Bron Heslop. I was lucky enough to become friends with Bron during Operation Hero watch, and I've been privileged to continue that friendship via the internet. Isn't stamping wonderful? Not only does it provide a creative outlet, but now I have a reason to go to NZ (and maybe even have a place to stay :) ). I promise our friendship has nothing to do with me selecting Bron's card for today's inspiration though. I saw it and absolutely fell in love. I think it is the paper beads running down the side of the card. I haven't had a chance to play with Paper Beads yet, but it's now on my to do list. I better be careful.....My to do list (for when I finally get to unpack my stamps) is getting really long! Enjoy Bron's card, and please let me know if it inspires you to create!

Today's Inspiration.....My Digital Studio

2011-01-06T01:32:00.000-06:00

Some of you may remember that before the mad holiday rush Stampin' Up! was hosting a My Digital Studio contest. Well, my MDS skills aren't quite up to par, but as I was doing the blog finds, I happened to run across the blog of one of the winners. She definitely thought outside the box, and I loved her Christmas tree made from stamped images in My Digital Studio. Connie Collins, from Constantly Stamping walked away with $400 worth of MDS downloads. I for one can't wait to see what she does with them!

Today's Inspirational Find- Valentine Defined

2011-01-05T01:26:00.000-06:00

Ok, somewhere buried in my box of goodies I actually have this stamp set. Of course it is completely unmounted and never played with. It kind of bums me out that I bought all this great Valentine's stuff, and now I can't use it. Oh well........There is always next year :)

This card is from Morgan over at Stamp Cravings. I love the fact that she chose to use more subtle colors than the typical Real Red for her Valentine. I think I will be using this color combination as soon as I possibly can!

NO MORE STAMPING FOR ME!

2011-01-04T01:00:00.000-06:00

Yes, you read that right...I'm done, finished, finito with stamping.....well at least temporarily. We still don't have our orders, but as most of you know we are suppose to be moving to Scott AFB sometime in late February or early March. Do you realize that is in about 6 weeks?? Anyway, to prepare, we have started sorting and rearranging and purging stuff. This weekend my hubby screwed up his back, so emptying the Attic was out of the question (wimpy movers won't bring the stuff down, we have to do it) so I decided to tackle my stamp room. Thanks to a couple great friends it only took us an afternoon. Now that my stamps and inks and everything else is all packed away I realized that today would have been the perfect day to stamp. Just in case you want to see what my stamp room looks like now......here's a picture. Oh and in case you are wondering....that really tall box on the floor.....Yeah, it has nothing but stamps in it. I might have a slight addiction!

So, what does that mean for this blog? Well I'm not going to be posting as much. I'm hoping every once in a while my downline or my upline or one of my customers will allow me to come play with their stamps, but for the most part I will be inkless until at least April. I will try not to leave you totally inspirationless though. My plan is to pick my favorite Blog Find of the Day and feature it here. Today's find is this adorable robot box from Kim over at Paper Punch Addiction. I'll see you tomorrow with another great inspirational blog find. Oh, and do me a favor will you? Stamp twice as much as normal....that way I can get my stamping in vicariously through you!

Luminaires aren't just for Christmas

2011-01-03T03:26:00.000-06:00

Every year I see all these amazing ideas to decorate for Christmas. Unfortunately, I always run out of time trying to make them. So this year I figured, why not see if I could use some of those great ideas for the rest of the year. I know you all have seen the adorable paper luminaries made out of card stock and vellum. Well I figured I could make one that would work any time of the year. I think this one will go in my daughter's bedroom. Now I'm off to see what other Christmas gifts I can use year round :)

Playing with Shrink Plastic

2011-01-02T03:13:00.000-06:00

Before the holiday I showed you a couple of projects we made with Shrink plastic. Since then I have had a ton of people ask me what exactly Shrink Plastic is.....well it's just a sheet of polymer that when heated shrinks down to about 1/4 of it's original size. Most people know it as Shrinky Dinks! You can use Sharpies or Staz-On ink to color them. Jay and I were playing around with it one day, and he made this bag pull for his backpack. We used Staz-on for the image, and then wrote his name with Permanent Marker. Can you tell my boy is a little rocker?

It's time for those Resolutions.....

2011-01-01T03:35:00.000-06:00

So why not do what this little dog is doing and Wish Big!!! Hope you all had a wonderful New Years!

New Year's Coasters

2010-12-31T03:29:00.000-06:00

With all the New Years parties tonight, I thought I would share a quick and easy way to save your coffee tables from those unsightly rings. Using SU! cork, cut it into circles and then use craft ink to stamp whatever image you would like onto the cork. Hit it with a heat tool to set the ink and voila......new coasters. This is a great thing to take to those New Year's hosts instead of another bottle of wine.

Wondering what to do with those left over Candy Canes?

2010-12-30T03:10:00.000-06:00

How about make up some of these simple little Winter treats. They are both generic enough to be used all winter long, and who says that Candy Canes are only for Christmas? I have yet to have someone turn one down just because Christmas is over!

Quick Gifts for Kids

2010-12-29T03:07:00.000-06:00

Now that Christmas is over, I need to get back to crafting! One of the things I always need to have on hand is little gifts for Birthday parties, visiting friends, etc. I try and keep a coloring book and some crayons around just so I have an emergency gift. Who doesn't like coloring? This time around I decided to make my own. Using a simple matchbook album and some outline stamps i was able to make these cute little coloring sets. Quick and easy to throw in a purse or bag and entertain the kids while you wait. Just slip a crayon through the ribbon and you are good to go!

A Trekkie Christmas Card

2010-12-28T02:59:00.000-06:00

My hubby is a nerd....yep, you read that right. I married a bona-fide, I love Star Trek nerd. So this year for his one of a kind Christmas card I figured I would make him a Punch Art Starship Enterprise......It was appropriate. Having him here for Christmas made it out of this world!!! (If any of you have other Trekkie nerds, I've also included the punch pieces to put together your own starship!).

Jay had a Punch Art Halo Christmas

2010-12-27T02:55:00.000-06:00

Jay's newest love is video games....as a matter of fact, he is enthralled with the HALO video game series. I admit it, I'm probably a bad mom cause I let him play with his dad. (Santa even brought him an XBox so he could play). While I'm not condoning the violence, I thought Halo was a better option than Call of Duty that he kept asking Santa for, so I caved. Anyway, I couldn't find anything HALO online as far as punch art goes, so I had to create my own. If any of you have HALO fans in your house, I thought maybe you might be interested in how I made Master Chief out of SU! punches, so I've included the punches needed.

Special Christmas Cards

2010-12-26T02:46:00.000-06:00

Every year I try and make my kids and my hubby a specialized Christmas Card. One that has something to do with their tastes and what they are into for this year. It all started when my son complained that I always made cards for other people, but he never got one. This year I made Katie a snoopy card. It was not my original idea, but I loved the card I saw here. So I copied it. Needless to say, she loved it too!

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-25T01:38:00.000-06:00

From My family to yours!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Christmas Eve...and why it pays to be my customer

2010-12-24T02:27:00.000-06:00

Every year I host a customer appreciation party. This year was no exception. Those that attended received a Charm from me, and were able to make an insert for every month. While I did borrow the idea from my good friend Angela Walters, I did adapt it to make it fit the charms. I was really happy with how they turned out, and I think my customers were too. Want to come to my party next year? Place an order or host a workshop!

2 Days until Christmas

2010-12-23T02:24:00.000-06:00

Quick and easy stocking stuffers....That's what I need. I always seem to forget about the little things until right before Christmas. Personally, I think my stocking is more fun than my actual presents.....something about opening all those teeny tiny gifts. Anyway, I put together these little notebooks with matching pens. I thought they would be perfect in someone's stocking. And they are winter themed, so you can use them anytime after the holiday. Oh, the little charms are made using that shrink plastic (aka shrinky dinks).

3 Days until Christmas

2010-12-22T02:22:00.000-06:00

Need an extra hand with all those last minute projects? How about your own personal elf to put the finishing touches on all the presents you need to wrap? Well, I don't know about wrapping, but this little guy can at least put a smile on your face. Something about those pointy ears I guess!

4 Days Until Christmas

2010-12-21T02:19:00.000-06:00

Need a little holiday spirit? How about some Luminaires to help you get in the mood? These are simply made from card stock and vellum with a little waffle paper wrapped around the outside for decoration. Now, obviously you can't use a real candle with these, but you can use the battery operated tea lights......I love the way they glow in my windows!

And the Countdown Begins-----5 Days Until Christmas

2010-12-20T02:17:00.000-06:00

yes, can you believe it? Only 5 days left! Where does time go? If you still are missing gifts, you better get a move on....how about this one...it's a simple little candy bar covered to make it festive. You have to love the singing reindeer!

December 19- Only 5 Crafting Days left

2010-12-19T02:08:00.000-06:00

yes, I admit it...I'm a last minute crafter. I just can't help it. I'm so good at procrastinating. That's why this year, I couldn't believe I actually made little neighbor gifts early! What is wrong with me? I wish I could say this was all my idea, but it wasn't. A Facebook friend found the idea somewhere and sent it to me. These are instant snowman kits. All you have to do is add snow. They come with a hat, scarf, and a flannel carrot nose (cause we never have carrots around here!). They all fit in this cute little basket. I have to admit it, I'm pretty proud of myself. Considering that I had not really used a sewing machine until this summer, I was amazed that I could figure these out!

December 18- Tag Books

2010-12-18T02:02:00.000-06:00

Today's share is this adorable Tag Book. I've shown you the idea before here, but this time I decided to make a bunch up for Christmas. I figured this would be a great place to put pics of the kids with Santa or even have them write on the tags what their favorite gifts were. Just an easy place to put simple memories. These were made with the leftovers from a simply scrappin kit. They were so easy to put together, and turned out pretty darn cute.

Martha Stewart Presents....the 16th Day of Christmas

2010-12-16T04:46:00.000-06:00

For some reason, I managed to get a Martha Stewart Living Magazine in my mail box a week or so ago. I'm not sure where it came from, and I'm pretty sure I didn't order it, but never the less there it was. Well, first having never read or even looked at a Martha Stewart Living magazine, let me just say I was impressed. Ya know, I poke an awful lot of fun at that lady, but she has some incredible ideas! Now that I am buying my own home, I keep picturing all these home made Holiday decorations....anyway, on to what she inspired me to make!
In her magazine she had these 3D trees covered with Sequins. Well I didn't have any sequins, but I had circle punches in several sizes and some metal sheets. Since my living room is purple, I figured I would make some trees to match. This was my first attempt. He needed a little something extra, so I went ahead and used the polka dot embossing folder to give him some texture, some tinsel to give him some glitz, and of course, what tree is complete without a star? I really like the way this turned out. I think I may make an entire forest of them!

The 15th Day of Christmas?

2010-12-15T05:10:00.000-06:00

Ok, I know it doesn't match the song...but just go with it ok? :) How about some mini treat pails to get you through today. These were simple and quick, and it is so much fun tying all those little ribbons through the handle. Ok, fun may be pushing it, but it is a great way to use up all those little scraps of ribbons.

December 14th....Are you getting excited yet?

2010-12-14T05:04:00.000-06:00

I know I am. Have any kids in your life that you need to give gifts to? Well with my two social butterflies, every year their list of friends who "HAVE TO" recieve gifts from us seems to grow. This year we put together these cute little reindeer necklaces using shrink film, a wheel and the ever popular dasher stamp. Looking for an easy way to box things up? How about the Advent Calendar kit from the Holiday mini. This makes a perfect quick packaging idea.....besides for Christmas, these little boxes will work wonderfully for Valentine's Day as well!

the 13th Day of Christmas (Only 12 to go!)

2010-12-13T05:02:00.000-06:00

How about this cute little Teddy Bear Candy Cane holder to keep you company while you wait for Santa? He looks cute enough to sleep with, and when you are done looking at him, you can steal his Candy Cane for a sweet treat.

Snowman Soup on the 12th Day of Christmas

2010-12-12T05:59:00.000-06:00

Well why not? These Frappiccino bottles make great "soup" holders. I can't remember where I go the great idea for the 3D punch snowman, but you have to admit he is adorable. I know the recipients of these will enjoy their warm winter treat! It tastes as good as it looks!

On the 11th Day of Christmas

2010-12-11T05:54:00.000-06:00

My gift to you is a great little teacher gift. These cute little pouches came from Nicole over at Be Creative with Nicole. As you can tell they not only hold pencils, but work great for candy canes too!

10 Days down, only two weeks to go!

2010-12-10T05:49:00.000-06:00

Can you believe we only have two weeks left until Christmas? Me neither. Now is when I start the mad rushing around. It never fails, but I always seem to forget some one I need a little gift for. You know, the mailman, the bus driver, my favorite grocery clerk, etc. Well this year I decided to be prepared. I put together some of these cute little candy bowls during my recent Kids Only Workshop. With a Snowflake Decor Element and a quick cello bag of candy tucked inside I'm all set. No more last minute shopping trips because I forgot that someone special.

Twas the 9th Day of Christmas......

2010-12-09T05:45:00.000-06:00

And everyone in Santa's village is beginning to prepare for the big Night. That includes Rudolph. You don't think he leaves home without a couple spare bulbs for his nose do you? And what better way to carry them than in this adorable little test tube. Rudolph must have been a Reindeer Scout.....He's prepared!

It's the 8th Day of Christmas

2010-12-08T04:35:00.000-06:00

And at least here in Germany we are headed for not only a white Christmas, but a buried in snow Christmas. In order to help to get rid of some of it, I thought I would share a MDS layout showing how to make Snow Ice Cream. My son thinks this is awesome, and I'm sure you will too!

On the Seventh Day of Christmas came ...

2010-12-07T05:36:00.000-06:00

a surprise for my kids....Ok, technically it came on the sixth for St. Nick Day, but I've been dying to show it to you. This year St. Nick brought my kids the trip of a lifetime.....we are heading to the North Pole for Christmas, Literally! We will be learning how to Mush (for my Husky loving daughter) Driving a Reindeer Sleigh ( for my son) and crossing the Arctic Circle (for my hubby (if he makes it back from the desert in time) and myself!). Anyway, in order to tell my kids all about it, St. Nick hijacked my MDS and created a passport for each of the kids explaining where we were going and what we were planning on doing every day we will be in Finland. I think he did an awesome job considering he usually has his elves do these kinds of things. All I can say is this is going to be one Christmas to remember!

On the sixth day of Christmas Not a Creature was stirring...

2010-12-06T02:29:00.000-06:00

Well, maybe a mouse. But he's cute and delicious too! This little guy is made out of punches and Die cuts, but my favorite part is the yummy tail! He's almost too cute to eat.......almost! :)

The Fifth Day of Christmas brings Mittens

2010-12-05T02:11:00.000-06:00

Lots and lots of mittens. I was lucky enough to get involved with a bulk buy that allowed me to get a bunch of metal sheets. I wanted to play with them but had no idea what I could do with them. Then I saw the cute punch art by Jackie Topa on how to make these mittens. I just punched them out of my metal sheets, embossed them with different embossing folders and then clipped them up to my "clothes line". I really like the way this turned out. What do you think?

It's the Fourth Day of Christmas!!! aka Dec. 4.

2010-12-04T02:04:00.000-06:00

And today I have this adorable little mini scrapbook to show you. I actually didn't make it, my upline Sara did. But I contributed the mini board book so I feel like I should get to show you the project. Unfortunately all of this project is retired, but it was too cute not to share!

On the third day of Christmas

2010-12-03T06:59:00.003-06:00

My gift to you is this cool looking Rag Quilt Wreath. Ok, I admit it, I didn't use any SU! products on it, but as soon as my Scallop Squares Duo Die comes in I will be using it to cut out the squares.....It makes it so much easier. I just needed a smaller Square than the Scallop Square die or I would have used it. I really like the way this came out. I think I am doing to use it on my Holiday table and place a candle in the middle as a centerpiece. It could probably be hung up as well, but it would need to be stiffened a little to hang right.

On the Second Day of Christmas.......

2010-12-02T03:04:00.000-06:00

I'm going to show you this super cool 3D Snowman inspired by Lynn Pratt
To make him stand up I inserted a shish ka bob skewer into the middle. I think he is quite a dashing young thing...but my daughter still thinks he needs a face. What do you think?

And the countdown begins!

2010-12-01T05:47:00.000-06:00

Can you believe that Christmas is in only 24 short days? As if that isn't exciting enough, My hubby should be returned from Afghanistan this month. This has been the longest 6+ months of my life. Anyway, in order to celebrate this wonderful season I have decided to post a new Christmas project every day from now until then. So, I guess you could say this is my Christmas present to you :)

On the First Day of Christmas.......I present to you.......
A Bottle cap Advent Calendar (CASED from The Southern Stamper)

Isn't it super cute? All it takes is 25 magnets, 25 bottle caps, some accessories and a Simply Scrappin Kit. These were so much fun to make, that not only did I teach a class with it, but I also made 6 all by myself!