Paisley Scraps

Christmas with Sparkle

2011-10-27T09:37:00.001-07:00

Christmas is coming, and that means my Christmas Stamp a Stack is right around the corner. My theme for Christmas this year -- SPARKLE! I am in love with some of the new (and the old) SU options to make things glimmer, and sparkle is simply my favorite accessory! While preparing for this class, I had a long stretch of being in pretty unreasonable pain, and sitting for a long spell of designing just wasn't working out, so I relied on the design talents of other amazing cardmakers for my designs. Usually designing is my favorite part of this process, but it is so wonderful to know that when it is not an option, there are so many great resources out there for help -- Splitcoaststampers.com is my favorite place to go to be inspired! Thankfully, I started on new medication this week, and am feeling MUCH MUCH better, so I'm hoping that the streak continues and I'll be back to my old stamping self again soon!!

Anyway, here are the designs I have so far for my Christmas Stamp a Stack...I have a box of goodies arriving today, so that I can work out one more card before class next weekend.

This first card uses the Medallion stamp to create a wreath image in Old Olive. I used Frost White shimmer paint, mixed with rubbing alcohol in a mini mister to create the shimmer, and our new Dazzling Details glitter to add sparkle to the berries.

This card (design courtesty of JanTink) uses the Snow Burst embossing folder, the Scallop Square Die, The Northern Flurry snowflakes, and the Ovals Die (mask) for the Bigshot. I sponged the oval in Marina Mist, stamped the image in Night of Navy and added touches of Frost White Shimmer paint directly to the image with a makeup applicator. Of course Rhinestones finish of the sparkle!

This one sparkles! I love using non-traditional colors for Christmas cards - and this one is certainly non-traditional, with Blushing Bride, Early Espresso and Soft Suede. I embossed the tree image from Christmas Lodge in Irridesent Ice embossing powder, and added halfback pearls for just a little extra shimmer!

And finally, my favorite! I love this fabulous snow friend from the set "Snow Much Fun" ...isn't he the cutest! I added Mica flakes to the bottom for a snowy sparkle, and Dazzling Diamond glitter to the snowflakes and the snowman himself...and a ton of Rhinestones for his sparkly buttons!

Well that's it, off to bake some brownies with my daughter, and wait for my package to arrive so I can get one more card ready for class :)

Have an awesome day!

BOO!

2011-10-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

I finished making treat boxes today for Lauren's class for Halloween. We haven't done any Halloween crafts the last couple of years, as my kids have been off track during the month of October, but this year Lauren starts back to school on October 31st, so obviously - must have treats! She and I searched quite a bit to find the fun project we liked best, and this is what she picked - I found the template for these on a great blog www.chicnscratchlive.com . The blog is filled with tons of fun tutorials for projects like these! Lauren helped with punching, emossing spider web heads, etc. so it was a real team effort and I think they turned out pretty cute! Now to get busy with Christmas Cards!! I still can't sit for very long, so projects are going slow, but I have a few ideas in the works for my Christmas Card class, should have pictures ready next weekend so hopefully I will find time to share them!

For those of you that read my last post about my health and are waiting for the update here, I am happy to say that everything is fine! I do not in fact have cancer! Doctors tell me that my bone marrow is "unusual" and "unique to me" in that I do indeed have a decreased bone marrow signal, but funtionally this is not causing any effect on my blood/ plasma production etc. So it is not cancer, and it is not harmful! I am still on medical leave however, related to my Fibromyalgia and ongoing back and body pain. It has been a long couple of months, and although my muscle spasms have decreased with not sitting for extended periods, I still am struggling with quite a bit of pain. I think the best I can hope for at this point is learning to tolerate the pain to the best of my ability, and working through it finding strength where I can, as it seems this is just all part of who I am and what my life will include. I am hoping to return to work on November 1st - keep your fingers crossed for me that all works out and I can remain strong and positive through the challenges that life brings!

Upcoming Class Selections

2011-08-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

Hey there everyone! Yep, six months...that seems about right. I haven't given up entirely on the idea of a blog...it just does not seem to fit in the reality of my life at this time! But I may as well pop in every so often and share what I can and keep you updated on my life!

Life lately has been weird at best, medical challenges that have kept me from being my best. I am currently (momentarily) on medical leave due to back pain and muscle spasms that make work more challenging than it should be, hoping to have resolution to this particular problem SOON! Also had a scare around here recently, as my MRI showed that there is a possibility that I have Multiple Myeloma. I have to tell you, this has been altogether terrifying and life changing - even to have someone tell you that you MAY have cancer is some pretty scary stuff. Right now, everything seems okay. I saw the oncologist last week, and his feeling is that "most of the time" MRI's that look like mine do not turn out to be cancer, and that I have no reason to worry... so I am going about life doing my best not to worry. But with this new and added concern to my life, needless to say, things have been crazy and stressful. If you are already in the know and praying for me - you have no idea how much I appreciate the prayers and support I have received in the last couple of weeks. And if this is news to you -- I am really OK! But I appreciate any prayers and positive energy that you may wish to send my way! This has been an excellent reason for me to rethink many things in my life, and to prioritize in new ways. I have spent time in the last two weeks talking to people I have not talked to in years, and re-establishing friendships and relationships that mean alot to me and I had let get away from me. I have had more people than I can even count tell me that they love me and are praying for me, so even if there is nothing wrong with me at all, my life is so much better today than it was last week, and if anything is wrong - I have a whole lot of people standing by to support me and my family if we need them! I have had a bunch of tests and find out more for sure at the end of the month, and while I trust and am confident that everything will be just fine, once that bug is in your ear, it is hard to get rid of it and go back to life as it was!

Since I have a Stamp a Stack coming up in August, I have been trying to use some of my free time while on medical leave to design cards for my class. I came up with 8 designs to use, and my class participants will choose their favorite 5 to complete in class. My creative juices have been a little stifled, maybe due to stress - I relied a lot on Splitcoaststampers for inspiration and ideas when designing! At any rate, here is what I came up with -- Participants in my Stamp a Stack will be selecting cards based on the card number assigned:

#1 - Simply Soft
First is a card using two new Hostess sets, Simply Soft and Perfect words. I used Island Indigo, Pear Pizzazz and So Saffron on this card, and layered markers and white gel pen for coloring, with a little sponging around the edges. Class participants can choose from a variety of sentiments in the Perfect Words set for front sentiment.

#2 Zoo Review
This card is in response to customers request for more masculine/ gender neutral cards - I personally would be happy with all flowers and butterflies, but whatever - I guess we should send cards to guys sometimes too. This uses the new Zoo Review set, and the Family Reunion set. I think customers will love that they can personalize cards to whomever they would like using this set! and I love the animals in Zoo Review. Used the Big Shot for Houndstooth Background and Sizzlit buttons. Blender Pens and Watercolor crayons are used for coloring.

#3 Thanks Pocket Card
This is a pocket thank you card using the Hello, Doily stamp. It is heat embossed (twice) in Whisper White on Basic Gray and then Real red cardstock and scallop punched. I had a lot of fun making this one, however some of my customers have mixed opinions about heat embossing!

#4 Kindness Matters
I wish I could get a better photo of this! This card uses the GORGEOUS new set Kindness Matters - $8.95 are you kidding me! I will SO get my money's worth from this one! A little "First Edition" DSP, lace ribbon and watercolor - sigh. I love it, hope my customers do as well.

#5 Field Flowers Thoughts
This card uses the beautiful new set Field Flowers and First Edition DST. I can't even say how much I love this set. I think it might be my new favorite. And this color (calypso coral)- LOVE it!! YUM! I paired it here with Cherry Cobbler and Soft Suede. This set involves 2-step stamping. I will be offering customers an alternate "birthday" outside greeting for versatility in class for this card.

#6 Fabulous Florets
Another new favorite set for sure - Fabulous Florets - I have had SO much fun with this set! I used it here in fun tropical colors (Melon Mambo, Tangerine Tango, Daffodil Delight and Old Olive) and paired it with the new set Pursuit of Happiness for the wonderful sentiment. Class participants can choose from pursuit of Happiness or Delightful Dozen as sentiment options for outside of card to personalize this one.

#7 Delicate Doilies Birthday
Here's a fun one - This uses the new fabulous set Delicate Doilies - I can see MANY fun cards with this one! and the Happiest Birthday Wishes hostess set, as well as the new Lace Ribbon border punch. I used the gorgeous new In Colors - Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Island Indigo and paired them with Riding Hood Red.

#8 Sail Away
Finally I used the Summer Mini set Sail Away for another Masculine set. I FINALLY got the Teeny Tiny Wishes set to use for greeting choices for this card - I LOVE the versatility of this set, and I know it will be a standout favorite at my stamp a stacks!

Okay - that's it for cards for today -- off to clean up my messes and make some lunch. Hope everyone has an amazing day!!

Class participants, please be sure to email your selections to me at kpaisley1@gmail.com by Friday evening! Thanks! :)

New cards to share...

2011-02-21T18:14:00.000-08:00

Finally! Sorry for the lapse, I just have not had much to share. My mojo was in hiding for a while, and I just never had anything I was excited enough to blog about. In fact, it really seems like lately the only time I take time to be creative is when I have a class planned. I have been working on some cards for a Stamp a Stack coming up on March 13th, so I HAD to get something made, might as well share it!!

I think that the Occasions mini catalog was just what my mojo needed --I loved nearly everything in it! And yes, that means I bought nearly everything in it, and plan to get the rest as soon as possible! AND since it is Sale-a-Bration, I got a few new things for free as well. With all the new stamps, tools and papers I am surrounded by right now, I found a few things to get my creative juices flowing. As a matter of fact, I ended up with 11 cards I like, and now the hard part is to choose which 5 to use for my Stamp a Stack. Feel free to let me know your opinion if you have one! Of course, since have made 12 cards so far, maybe I will just plan a second class in April, and do them all :)

Anyway, here are the cards that I thought were cute enough to share.

I just love the new Create a Cupcake stamp set and coordinating punch. I combined these with the adorable Ice cream parlor designer paper available through SAB, and some fun Melon Mambo pom pom trim. I love the fun colors of this card.

This next card uses the beautiful new "Bliss" Sale a Bration set. The color combo here is Crumb Cake, Blushing Bride, Pink Pirrouette and Very Vanilla - I love these colors together! I was inspired by the challenge site Colour Q -- I love following along with these challenges, and often find new favorite color combos as a result!

Unfortunately, I have found a real need for Sympathy and Get Well cards lately, so I have designed a few that will work well for these needs. Great thing in designing these for classes, if if participants don't need sympathy cards, a thank you or thinking of you would work just as well. I think this is my favorite new set - called Nature Walk from the occasions mini catalog. I hope to find more time to play with this set and really share it's beauty and versatility. I love every stamp in this set! I used Marina Mist, Daffodil Delight, Early Espresso and Naturals Ivory - I love this combo.

I actually purchased 2 new "sympathy" sets, this one (Thanks for Caring) from the occasions mini, and Thoughts and Prayers. I have needed a good sympathy set for quite a while, and with these two, I know I will be able to make all the sympathy and get well cards I need for a while. I love this one, which uses my new Framed Tulips embossing folder as well as my new eyelet border punch to accent this set. I also used the Springtime Vintage Designer Paper, which I just LOVE!

Keeping with the same color combo and stamp set, I designed a second sympathy/get well choice.

This is a simple design, but I love this poppy stamp from the Sale a Bration set Punch Bunch, and this color combo (Rich Razzleberry and Wild Wasabi) is a favorite of mine.

Using the same "Punch Bunch" set, the Owl Punch, and the Ice Cream Parlor SAB paper, I created this cute thank you card. I love this little owl, he makes me smile.

I always find a need for more masculine cards, and think this one (using Thoughts and Prayers) works well for masculine, and would work with nearly any sentiment. I know it is pretty simple, but I really like it a lot.

Here is another birthday card, using the new Bring on the Cake set. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this set. I can't believe how many good stamps are in one birthday set! I used the Ice Cream Parlor paper, ribbon and button on this card - Can you tell I really like this paper - I love each and every piece, and need to make sure I earn more SAB goodies so I can get a couple more packs!

Using the same design as the Sympathy card above, I created this card using Baby Blooms and the Springtime Vintage paper. I think this card would be lovely for Mothers Day, Birthday, Easter...anything really.

And Finally, I created this birthday card using the Aviary set - finally got around to buying it! I love this set, and can see me using it a ton. I also love this color combo - Poppy Parade, Pear Pizzaz, Tempting Turquoise and Black.

Okay, that's it for now. I really do hope to check in again soon, since I hope to get back to creating just a little more regularly. Now I am off to decide which cards to use for my class...

Checking in...

2010-10-31T11:33:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a while. I guess I am not doing so well on meeting my blogging goal! Sorry to those of you who have stopped by to find nothing new! Life has been crazy - which is nothing new around here! I can't believe October is over, what a whirlwind...and now on to the even crazier holiday months!

I have been preparing for my "Grateful" stamp a stack, which is next weekend! I am finishing up the prep this weekend, thought I might as well share the cards we are doing with you. I find you can never have enough thank you cards, and I know most of my customers feel the same...

This is my favorite card for the class, of course...it is butterflies! This card is in Peach Parfait, Pear Pizzazz and Cherry Cobbler - love this combo. I used the Beautiful Butterflies big shot die, Vintage Wallpaper and Elegant Lines embossing folders, and scallop trim punch. The focal butterfly is embossed using Baroque Motifs, and sponged in coordinating inks. I love the pearls for accent too.

This next card is a simple but lovely card using the new French Foliage set - I really love this set! I used a clear acrylic block to stamp the shadow square behind the sentiment, and stamped the gorgeous images in cominations of Cajun Craze, Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip and Crumb Cake.

As you may know, I LOVE fall colors. And I am REALLY in love with CAJUN CRAZE, as my favorite new fall color. Here paired with Chocolate Chip and Old Olive I love the fall feel to this card. The design for this card was inspired by one I saw on Create with Connie and Mary, a blog I love to visit for inspiration.

Obviously when I saw the "Paisley Prints" set in the holiday mini, I HAD to get it and the coordinating wheel, and how cute are those paisley leaves! AND I am reaching the point that I simply can not make a card without using an embossing folder -- I do love my Big Shot!

This card uses the Days of Gratitude set, with River Rock and Early Espresso. I love this color combination, and how striking the colors are when paired together. I added just a touch of Cajun Craze for accent with the Ribbon Border punch.

Finally we are doing this card made with the Just Believe stamp set. Another new favorite! Colors here are Early Espresso, Marina Mist and Daffodil Delight. A little masking/ sponging and walla!

I hope the participants will enjoy making these as much as I have enjoyed planning them... I probably should get back to cutting kits for the class, I have 15 participants making 15 cards each - thats a lot of cutting to get done!

But before I go I wanted to share ONE MORE card :)

My daughter Lauren (age 7) did some creating with me this weekend, and when I was photographing my cards this morning, she wanted me to take a picture of her card as well. She is my crafty girl! I think she did a pretty good job with this one - won't be long before she is better than me!

Well, that is all for today! Have a Happy Halloween, and I will check in with more fun stuff soon!

Christmas is Coming!

2010-09-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

Christmas is my FAVORITE time of year - I love everything about it! I especially love making cards, decorations and gifts to share with everyone that I love. And it is coming! I went a little overboard this year buying stamps and accessories - the SU Holiday Mini catalog and I are VERY good friends, there was just WAY WAY too much cute stuff and I bought it all! Tinsel, Glass Glitter, Stamps, Die Cuts and Designer papers... So I have been playing a bit (time permitting) and have just a few cards to share with you today. These are the 5 cards that I have selected to use for my upcoming Christmas Stamp a Stack on October 17th. At least I think these are the 5...I keep changing my mind! I still have room in this class, so if you are interested in attending let me know! I will be accepting registration until September 27th.

I apologize in advance for the poor photo quality - every time I have the opportunity to take pictures, it is late and dark...this was the best I could do!

This first card uses Greeting Card Kids - I love this set! And I love Cherry Cobbler, my new favorite SU color. And don't you LOVE the new lace ribbon!

This card uses the new set Jolly Old St. Nick - I think this set may be my Christmas favorite this year...I love every single stamp in the set and have enjoyed making adorable cards with ALL of them!

This set, using the ornament punch and coordinating stamps I love for the color combination..Melon Mambo, Pink Pirouette and Certainly Celery - these colors just make me happy!

This card uses the new level 2 hostess set, Peaceful Season - I just love the elegance of this set. Hard to see the colors clearly here, but I love the Rich Razzleberry, especially that ribbon!

This card uses Tree Trimmings and the new greeting set Bright Christmas, paired with the Jolly Holiday Designer paper and some rhinestones for a little sparkle!

See....I did come back :)

2010-08-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

I told you I would! I am really proud of myself, as I have been sticking with my goal of regular stamping and although I wish I could do even more, at least I am doing something!

Mostly I am working on ideas for upcoming classes, this always keeps me on track, so making sure I have something scheduled will keep me in my scrap room for sure! I have an "Asian Inspiration" stamp a stack coming up, and have been designing asian inspired cards for the last couple of weekends. I love all things asian, and have made quite a few that I really like -- now the difficult part will be narrowing it down to the 5 I think will work best for a SAS! That is always the hardest part for me! Since I have really only been stamping stuff for classes, and since blogs are boring without photos, I guess I will give you a little peek at a couple of the asian cards I have designed. If you have an opinion, share it! Maybe it will help me decide if these two should make the cut for the class...

Although I rarely use retired products for classes, for my asian SAS I found that in order to get a variety of cards, I needed to - we only have a couple of current sets that are truly "asian" available at this time - however I have dozens in my collection, so I had a great time playing with some old favorites!

This first card uses the set Dream Gardens, as well as retired Background Bamboo II and sentiment from Essence of Love. The techniques used here include embossing, masking, and brayering. I saw a number of cards using this set with similar brayer techniques that helped to inspire this card over at splitcoaststampers.com - I love finding inspiration there!

This next card uses the Retired stamp sets Asian Artistry and Embrace Life, and sentiment from Fabulous Phrases. I used Watercoloring and a Paper Lantern technique which adds an asian flair in my opinion - I love the Rich Razzleberry, Pink Pirouette, Pear Pizzaz color combo!

Thanks for looking :) Have an amazing day!

UPCOMING CLASSES

2010-08-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

I've announced the dates for several upcoming classes for the rest of the year - hope to see some of you there!

All of my classes will be held at ROUND TABLE PIZZA located at 10054 Bruceville Rd. in Elk Grove, CA

The following classes are $40 to participate, we will make 15 cards with envelopes. Lunch (pizza and soft drinks) is included in the fee.
Classes start at 1:00 pm, and you can stay until you are done or until closing time!
All materials are provided, you bring your own ADHESIVE, and a sharp pair of scissors if you have them.

Classes are as follows:

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 11
Christmas Stamp a Stack - GET AN EARLY START on your Christmas cards!
Registration and payment due by August 28th

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 25
Asian Influence Stamp a Stack- my take on asian inspired designs, a personal favorite!
Registration and payment due by September 1st

SUNDAY OCTOBER 17
MORE Christmas Stamp a Stack - Better really get to those Christmas cards now! Cards will not be duplicated from previous class, you are welcome to attend both
Registration and payment due by September 15th

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 6
Grateful Stamp a Stack - the perfect time of year to make thank you cards, fall colors, thanksgiving and all year thank you cards.
Registration and payment due by October 5th

I am offering a $10 discount for anyone who wishes to attend all 4 classes and registers by August 28th!

Wanna come? Email me at kpaisley1@gmail.com to register and get payment info

Space is limited to 1st 15 paid participants :)

I am designing cards like a fool for all these classes, but I don't want to spoil the surprises, so I won't share just yet....but maybe I will give a little sneak peak before classes begin, since I am so excited with all my fun new stuff, I want to share!!

My SCRAPPY SPACE

2010-08-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

Since I have not posted since we moved to our new home, I never shared with you my new scrappy space - I thought I would share some photos of my wonderful, fabulous, fantastic room that I really really love! (and hopefully will start using a LOT more!!)

Of course my ONLY requirements in moving to a new home were that I wanted my own craft room - one with a closet and a door. My new room does NOT have a closet, or a door, or even WALLS... but I love it anyway, and you make do with what you have! It is much better that what I had before, and I have been able to take the time to make it exactly the way that I want it. It functions beautifully and I have plenty of storage space! And yes, someday maybe I will move to a space with a door, but this keeps me very happy for now. The home we moved to has a large loft area upstairs that I have claimed as my space - there is only one full wall, and then the rest of the room has half walls above the entryway and stairway, and one wall is all window - it's a nice open and airy space, but designing a room without walls made things interesting - I am used to going "up" for storage ideas etc.

Here is the work area where I scrap/ stamp etc. We used JETMAX cubes from Michaels to create the Desk support, and my husband installed countertop purchased from Home Depot to create the L shaped Desk. As you can see, I put the computer in my scrap space - which means I have to share with the kids! I may decide to rethink that at some point, but for now I enjoy having them share my space with me :)

I have storage on the wall around the window for punches and for primas/ flowers, and on the windowsill for buttons and doodads. I have lots of drawers under the desk for storage as well. It's hard to see in this photo, but I used rain gutter from Lowe's for ribbon storage - I LOVE this better than any ribbon storage I have ever used before!

I had my husband help me to create a standing height work space here - we cut a pair of JETMAX cubes in half to make the space taller, and mounted the countertop above that. I use this space for paper cutting, and using my BIGSHOT for die cutting, which I prefer to do standing up. There is lots of room here for paper storage, and the drawers house my dies, embossing folders, etc.

This is the one full wall in my room - I still need 3 more JETMAX cubes to complete my storage unit - I have all of my goodies in here! And I love that I can label what is in the drawers and everything is out of sight, NO CLUTTER! I recently unmounted all of my stamp sets, and they are in the Univenture binders sitting on top of the shelf unit - I am amazed at how much stuff I fit in such a small space!!

My husband helped me to get creative here too - since the JETMAX cubes are smaller than the width of the countertops, it bothered me that there was empty space between the cube and the wall - he helped me to create a "door" at the spaces where the desks come to an open end to finish it off and close up the space. But since is it a door, I can access the space for storage.

We created this rolling accessory cart to slide into this space and make it perfect useful storage while hiding an ugly clutter mess! This was part of an old broken craft table that was on the way to goodwill - we repurposed it, it fits perfectly to hold my stickers, rub ons, etc.

He also helped me to build this hidey space under my main scrap/ stamp space so that when I am in the middle of working on a project or page, I can set it on the pull out and slide it under the desk to keep my workspace clean without having to really put anything away - I can put quite a bit of stuff on here to keep it out of sight, then pull it right back out when I am ready to get back to work!

Hope you enjoyed the tour of my space! I'll be back soon :)

Back to the blogging world....at long last!

2010-08-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

Hello to my friends, and to anyone else who may happen upon this post and share my thoughts! It has been such a long time since I have ventured into blog land, but I am finally ready to get my feet wet and maybe even jump back in! Yes, you read correctly...it has been a year and a half since my last post. And a very interesting, busy year and a half it has been. I won't even attempt to catch you up entirely, that would be silly. But a few important things are worth explaining.

As my posts before I disappeared indicated, we moved, and at about that time life got pretty crazy around the Paisley household! We are all settled now, and quite happy in our new home, living happily and sharing our space with my mother in a beautiful neighborhood. Kids love it! But in addition to moving my life took a few strange turns, and as a result my scrapbooking and crafting really took a back seat in life. So I did not just stop posting, I really stopped scrapping. I have done a few things, and have tried to keep up here and there - but I have done very little photo taking, developing, scrapping, purchasing, etc. during this time, and am just now really getting back into the swing of my absolute favorite fun thing!

Back in February of 2009 I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Of course, I knew that there was SOMETHING wrong for some time before this, but around the end of the year in 08 it became evident that I had a real medical challenge, and this is what the doctors found. It has taken a bit of time and some trial and error with medications etc. to get me on a good path to feeling like myself. A few months after this diagnosis when medications did not really resolve the problem, and when symptoms continues even when inflammation was better, it was determined that in addition to RA, I also suffer from Fibromyalgia.

I know that many of you may appreciate the challenges of chronic pain and chronic fatigue, and may even suffer some of these challenges yourself. It has been a long road for me, but I am happy to share that I have found ways to control my pain through dietary changes that have allowed me to minimize medication needs and feel well most of the time. There are still struggles, but I am finally feeling consistently well enough that I am able to enjoy my hobbies again, and to appreciate those things in life that I love most, to spend quality time with my children and family, and to be present in my days every day! (well at least almost every day!)

So now that I CAN enjoy my hobbies, I really want to begin to share them again. I can't guarantee that I will be back to frequent classes, posts, design teams, contests, etc... but I am going to try challenging myself to at least twice monthly posts and that means I need to make something to share at least weekly! AND I am scheduling classes again, which always makes me happy.

So keep a watch out for new things, I promise it wont take a year for the next post! But if I am not always timely or on top of things, just know that I am trying!!

I did have a Stamp a Stack recently, so I thought I would share a couple of the cards that we made in that class, as I don't have much else to share right now...

STAMP SETS: Elements of Style, Because I Care
INKS: Brown Stazon, Daffodil Delight, Early Espresso, Old Olive, Crumb Cake, Cajun Craze
PAPERS: Early Espresso, Daffodil Delight, Confetti Cream
ACCESSORIES: Top Note Die, Lg Oval Punch, Oval Scallop XL Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Sponge Dauber, Daffodil Delight 1/8" ribbon, Blender Pen, Dimensional Adhesive

STAMP SETS: All A Flutter, Fabulous Phrases, Friends 24-7
INK: Marina Mist, Elegant Eggplant, Soft Suede, Brown Stazon
PAPER: Soft Suede, Marina Mist, Bashful Blue, Sahara Sand, Perfect Plum
ACCESSORIES: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Distressing Tool, Modern Label Punch, Bashful Blue Ribbon, Early Espresso Ribbon, 1 1/4 Square Punch, Dimensional Adhesive

Well, that's all for today - I will check in again soon (really!)
Have an amazing day!

I know, I know...

2009-01-03T07:37:00.000-08:00

It is completely RIDICULOUS that I have not updated in two months. I apologize to any of you that have stopped by to check in and found me seriously slacking!! The truth is, I have not had anything scrappy to share. I have not even been IN my scrap room since October, and sadly did not even make Christmas cards this year. It is pathetic really. I have intended to update often, but when I sit down to check in everything I think about typing feels like whining....and I don't want this to be a place where people come to listen to me whine!! But I guess I better update so you don't forget that I am here altogether.

Things have been a bit challenging around here lately - I won't go into great detail, but just know that I have been a bit preoccupied. Sadly when I get stressed and overwhelmed I tend to go hide in my corner (and eat!!). But 2009 is here, and this is going to be a MUCH better year! I am determined to make it so.

The big news for 2009 - we are MOVING! In order to survive our economic challenges and save money, and in order to provide the best possible lives for our children and our family, we are combining households with my mother. We are so truly blessed to have her in our lives, and as difficult as the last few months have been, we are really excited to have this opportunity. We expect to start the moving process sometime this month, so I may be scarce for a while longer. My mother purchased a bank owned home that is big enough for all of us and affordable enough that we can share expenses and stay afloat in this crazy economy! The house needs a bit of work, and I will spend the next year (or ten) trying to give it the personality that I can see hiding in the bland and ugly of it (lol) so that will keep me busy! And my husband promises that within the next few months we can convert part of the garage space to a scrap space for me... which means it may be a while yet before I get to do any serious scrapping! But I am looking forward to a designated scrap room soon! I will have to let painting and decorating a house fill my creative needs for a while I guess, and I hope to share the photos (once I have the AFTER photos) as we go...I will get to really test my creativity as I attempt to make this home mine with a $0 budget!

The kids are all doing great, and we all had a lovely Christmas. They have really enjoyed having time off from school the last couple of weeks, and have learned the real art of being lazy it seems!

I hope that the new year is finding all of you happy, healthy and prosperous, and I hope that you will come check in on me periodically as I hope to get back to sharing soon...really!

I do have a layout that I created before going in to hiding that I never shared...this was a layout that I completed for the Scrap Whispers challenge...I will leave you with it...have a lovely weekend!

Quick update...

2008-10-28T17:40:00.001-07:00

Has it really been two weeks since I checked in with you all? Wow...time flies. I was gently reminded by my lovely friend Shirley (Hi there Shirley!) that I was lagging. So I will do a quick check in and bring you all up to date. Sadly there has not been a lot of scrappy time around here, but I do have a few projects to share. Mostly I have been spending my time running crazy with these kidlets! We have been working hard at getting my oldest son back on his game with school - we had a rough few weeks but I am so happy to say that finals are over and he lived through his first quarter of 8th grade and actually pulled up his grades to A's and B's!!! Way to go Christian!...and he reported this morning that he plans to keep it on track and shoot for all A's next quarter - I am so glad to have my son back!!
My nine year old has his 4th grade Mission project due this week and we have been working on that - I love doing crafty projects with the kids, and we were encouraged to work on it together, so we are having a great time! But wow is it a time consuming project!
Lauren is getting so excited for Halloween! I can't wait to take pictures of her adorable costume! Grandma made it, and she is going to be a butterfly - it is simply stunning! She is so anxious to be able to wear it! And I am really looking forward to being able to scrap it!

Now on to the scrappy stuff... I did complete some items for the Tour De France Contest over at MonAme Memories. Last week's challenge was to complete a project for Breast Cancer awareness. We were asked to alter a Bra in any way that we chose -- and then of course in order to be coordinated and have a little fun, we were to make matching panties. Of course, like many of you my life has been touched by Breast Cancer, and I wanted to make something really special for this contest. And since we are talking about Breast Cancer awareness before I share my project I want to remind you to get your yearly mammogram - don't wait! I would also like to encourage you to click HERE to go to the Breast Cancer site, and please click to donate a FREE mammogram! It only takes a moment, it is free, and it may save someone's life!

Here is my project:

I decorated the bra and boy shorts in fall colors with silk flowers, rhinestones and ribbon. I added an adorable little owl pin and the tag reads: I'm here to support you. I have no idea what to do with this little ensemble now that it is done! But may someone living with Breast Cancer or a Breast Cancer survivor will see my project and know that I made it to support them...and maybe they will smile.

For this week's project, we were asked to create a mini album using the theme "Thankfulness" as our inspiration. Now I have to tell you, as busy as this week has been, trying to get a mini album done was REALLY a challenge for me. But I was determined to do this! And I am so glad that I did. We have faced some difficult times recently, and it has been really hard for me not to be focused on the negative. Really hard. So taking the time this week to focus on the things that I am thankful for was really a blessing for me. I do have so much to be thankful for, and no matter what challenges life throws at me, I KNOW that I am truly blessed. I do plan to add a few more pages to this mini - since I have much more that I am thankful for, but here is what I got done for the contest:

I used primarily Making Memories papers, chipboard, journaling notebook and stickers for this album along with some miscellaneous ribbon, buttons and lace, felt alphabet by American Crafts and some prima flowers. I wish the photos were a little better - but I always do! I am so pleased with how this album turned out - it makes me smile!

Well, that's it for now - I gotta go get back to work on my (I mean Ethan's) Mission project. Have a WONDERFUL week, and I hope to have something fun to share soon!

Good Morning!!

2008-10-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

I hope that today brings you lot's of smiles!!

Life has been going full speed this week, so I have had very little time for scrappy endeavors. I am still playing in the contest at Moname Memories, and am pleased to say that I am holding tight to third place for two weeks in a row - woohoo! What has been fun about this challenge for me is that there is a "speed" component to the race in addition to the scrapbooking, and working quickly in the race earns more points, at least for some of the challenges. So if you know me, you know that I am anything but fast - so I have really had to push myself - the layout that I completed for last week's challenge I got done in just a couple hours - no pondering, no setting it aside and coming back to is later...just get it done! AND I even overcame my fear of writing on the page and wrote (with permanent marker even lol) all over my layout, the flowers, the edges, the journaling... So although it is not the most fabulous thing I ever created, I jumped over some hurdles and enjoyed doing it!

We used a sketch for this one, and that of course made it go much faster. This is my daughter at her 3rd birthday party trying out the beautiful purple makeup she was given for her birthday! Journaling reads: Someone thought it would be a good idea to buy you makeup for your 3rd birthday. You sure had a good time, and Purple is definitely your color!
I used My Mind's Eye patterned papers, Bazzill cardstock, Pink Paislee diecut paper, Making Memories glimmer brad, Sharpie marker, AC thickers, misc. lace trim, AC alpha stickers and a cute little butterfly that I have no idea where came from.

My project this week won't be fast - I am caught in a whirlwind this week and don't know when I may have time to sit down and work, so hopefully I can hold on to my spot!

Aside from this page, my only crafty time this week was getting to go make a tile mosaic with friends from work - My friend Dawn got us together and put together the supplies and somehow convinced her husband Bill to help with framing, grouting etc - it was a VERY fun day with creativity flowing and oozing all over the place - thanks Dawn and Bill!

Well, gotta go wake up the kids to get ready for school, work and another insanely busy day! Hugs to you all

Fall is Here!!

2008-10-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

How exciting! Fall weather has finally joined us here in my little corner of the world...cool and cloudy...just enough to make you want to stay snuggled inside with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book... Now don't get me wrong - next week or so I will be whining that I miss my sunshine, but right now I am loving the change!

And it feels like a full season has passed since I last updated my blog...oh well, what else is new? I have finished a few fun things recently, although not nearly as much as I would have liked. Although my mojo has finally returned and I am starting to feel those creative juices flow, my available time has been pretty limited - I take what I can get!

Here is a little fall layout to get you in the mood! This is my daughter last fall decorating pumpkins.

I used Scrapworks and Cosmo Cricket patterned papers, Scenic Route chipboard alpha, Basic Grey alpha stickers and a buncha buttons from my stash.

I am excited to say that I am participating in a fun contest over at Moname Memories. I think a good contest is just what I needed to kick my creativity into gear and get me in the mood to scrap! The contest is called the Tour de France, and we are racing to the finish line - for the next 4 weeks I will be working on challenges for this, and so far I am having a GREAT time! Hope that the old bike is not too rusty to keep up, but either way, it should be a fun ride.

Here is what I created for the first leg of the race. The challenge was to use the theme "greatness" for the layout, and then to create a card using only the items that you used on your layout.

I have to tell you that this challenge was really a blessing for me - As I started thinking about the "greatness" theme, I knew exactly what I needed to do. I have really been struggling with my oldest son, Christian. At 13 he is really starting to test me, and we struggle daily to keep him on the right track, especially with school and homework. Being a mom is SUCH hard work, and I often feel like my role in life is to be a nag, which I just hate. So I created this layout about my struggle with my son, and it helped so much for me to express it and to put it into perspective.

Sorry the photos are not the best - it is dark here, and my efforts to lighten in PS did not do them justice, but that's the best I can do.

The journaling reads:
Christian, I know you think I'm too hard on you...that I am too strict, I push you too hard. You are RIGHT! I do push hard. I have known since you spoke your first words that you were an amazing gift - so incredibly bright! I see a future for you filled with such great potential. I know in my heart that you can do ANYTHING! I want you to learn to always do your best - to reach as far as you can. I want you to see that "good enough" is just NOT good enough for you. I will keep pushing you to live up to your potential, and I pray that one day you will realize that I do this because I LOVE YOU and because I know that you are DESTINED FOR GREATNESS.

Then here is the card I created using the same supplies:
The products that I used are: We R Memory Keepers patterned papers and chipboard shape, Stampin Up cardstock, ink, journaling pen and brads, Heidi Swapp chipboard alpha, Making Memories tiny alpha stickers, and misc. buttons.

Here is another simple card I never shared...

as well as a little journal that I made to keep track of my phone calls at work:

Well, I guess that covers the work I have done for the moment - I am in the middle of several things, so hopefully I will get some time soon and can pop in and share them!

On another note, I did want to mention that I will no longer be participating on the design team at Making Memories for You - I won't go into details except to say that everything happens for a reason, and I have discovered that the reasons this time are so much better for me. I have been reminded that I really do need to listen to my gut - I keep thinking that I know this, but apparently I need periodic reminders. I did learn a lot from this experience - which is why I continue to try new things! I created some things that I LOVE and am very proud of, I made a few new friends which is ALWAYS important to me. I learned that I really enjoy doing sketches, and I think this is something that I will continue - at least once in a while!

And at least for the moment, I will use my time to scrap just for me, and I will continue to challenge myself and enjoy my love for creating because it brings me joy!

I am off now to go dig in to some paper and see what I can get accomplished. Have a scrappy day!!

New Sketch, Layout and Card to share

2008-09-21T18:11:00.000-07:00

I am ALMOST feeling human again, and the kids are on the mend. I have been trying like crazy to find my mojo... not sure where I left it but if you find it, PLEASE send it home! I think my creativity is just on hold since I have been feeling so lousy, so I hope that as I feel better, my mojo comes back. In the meantime, I am trying to keep scrapping - not always successfully, and very very slowly - I swear it drives me crazy when I work for hours on something and it is still just ...eh. But that is the way it goes I guess.

At any rate - I do have a couple things to share. I did another sketch this week.

Here is Sketch #4:

I decided to try a 2 page layout this time. Now, I know that not many people do 2 page layouts at this point...that's okay! My intention was to design this so that each individual page could be used on it's own, and yet those that want a 2 page option can use it as such.

Here is the sample I created for this sketch -- more photos of Lauren - yes, I am done scrapping these pics and will be moving on to something else now, I promise...but I still love em!
Sorry these pics are so bad... my day did not go exactly as planned and I lost the good light before I got around to taking pics.

I also finished a Fall card today...

I had SOOOOO many other things on my list today, but I only succeeded in making a mess of my desk...oh well. There's always tomorrow. Pray for my tummy to feel better so that I can get back to being a productive scrapper...oh, and remember - keep your eyes out for my mojo... I miss it!

Catching up again

2008-09-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Hope this post finds you happily scrapping or otherwise enjoying your day! I have a new sketch and layout to share - sorry i didn't get to it sooner, this has been a pretty rough week! I had a head cold all last week, but fought my way through it only to have the joy of catching the stomach crud this week! And now that I am feeling a bit better, my children are all hit with the stomach crud today! I gotta tell ya, I am exhausted. BUT I am doing my best to keep it all together and keep myself sane with a moment here and there to scrap. Unfortunately feeling lousy doesn't bring out my best creatively, but I keep trying!

I did complete a sketch over the weekend, as well as a layout to share. Hoping that this weekend allows me some time to get more scrappyness in. One can hope :) And in the meantime I am staying away from any and all germs!

Here is SKETCH #3

And here is the layout that I created as a sample:
I had a terrible time trying to get a photo of this one, so sorry it is a little blurry. I used Bazzill cardstock, Scenic Route papers, Basic Grey letter stickers and chipboard alpha, Maya Road sheer journaling blocks and Queen & Co felt strip (stars). I unfrotunately can't remember the manufacturer of the chipboard stars.

Well, I am off to try to get something accomplished with my day... or maybe just a nap lol

Hugs to you all!

Altered Matchbox "Memory Game"

2008-09-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

Good Morning everyone! Just a little project to share today...

This week for my design team I needed to create something to share as a challenge for the board, and I was asked to do a "Three Things" challenge - participants use 3 selected things on a layout, card or altered project - this is always so much fun - I hope you decide to play along! Of course I picked my three FAVORITE things for this challenge:

The color PINK
Butterflies (at least one visible butterfly on the project)
BLING!

If you decide to play along, please share your work here!!

This is the sample that I created as inspiration for this challenge. I received a 7 gypsies matchbox in my kit from the Keep In Touch shop. I altered it using Fancy Pants papers, Luxe label, Making Memories tiny alphabet, Prima crystals, and a vintage button. I made a "memory" game for my daughter Lauren using 12 different photographs of her on one side and then 6 pairs of butterfly photos to match on the other side. I hope that this idea inspires you - Lauren LOVES her special game made just for her, and I really think these would make great gifts!

I hope that you all have a wonderful day! I am off to try to sneak in a little more scrappin before the weekend is over! HUGS!
KP

Another Sketch and a layout to share

2008-09-07T16:23:00.001-07:00

I completed a second sketch for the September challenge at MMFY. You can find my challenge here if you would like to join in the fun for a chance to earn a RAK!

Here it is -- Sketch #2

I'd love to see what you create with it - if you use it, be sure to leave a comment with a link to your work here :)

And here is the layout that I created using this sketch:

I used Fancy Pants patterned papers, Prima crystal flourishes, Doodlebug alpha stickers, Making Memories tiny alpha's, American Crafts thickers, October Afternoon rub on's.

Hope you all have a scrappy week!

I'm a-sketchin'

2008-09-06T07:12:00.000-07:00

So...as part of my responsibilities at MakingMemoriesforYou.org I am moderating the "Sketches" forum, and of course that means, I need to share sketches and sketch challenges. I decided that since the whole point of me sharing work on a design team is to challenge myself creatively, that I would try my hand at designing my own sketches.

The concept is not new to me - I just haven't really put the time into putting my ideas into sketch form - when I scrap, I generally envision the completed layout in my head and skip right to the finished product, rather than sketching the idea first. In fact, I nearly failed art class in High School, as I refused to sketch my work first. That was back in my arrogant days and I told the teacher and principal I did not need to sketch or "do it twice", I did it right the first time...ah, those were the days! Smarting off to the nuns, that was good times!

At any rate, I have decided to try sketching, and will be sharing weekly sketches on the site. Now keep in mind, I am a beginner at this... but I will be learning and growing from the experience, which is why I am doing it! I hope that in the process I can inspire someone else! This is my first sketch:

Thankfully I live with a 13 year old computer genius who can help me with the computer part...Thanks Christian!

You can see the sketch challenge as well as the layouts members create with this sketch here. If you decide to create a layout with this sketch, I would love to see your work! Come share it on the site and please leave a comment here with a link to your creation!!

I am off to spend the morning doing some scrappy things today! Have a wonderful weekend!!

Check this month's Ezine...

2008-09-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

Making Memories For You puts out a monthly Ezine, and for the next three months I will be contributing to it. Check out this month's issue - HERE
Each month there are calls for new layouts - submit your work and join in the fun!

Long overdue update, and new things to share!

2008-08-31T11:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, in fact it has been forever. This month has been a little challenging for me, and I truly apologize for not being around more. But things are looking up and I really hope to have lots to share over the coming weeks!

So where have I been?? I had a challenge earlier in the month in which I had a bizarre reaction to some medication, which also caused me to tweak my neck. I have been gradually recovering and working through the pain and am nearly back to myself! In the meantime I have been crazy busy with work, kids, start of school, stamp class, and a new Design Team commitment...whew!

Lauren started Kindergarten last week - WOW, can you believe it! Here is a photo from her first day

She also had a Hula Show last week - she was so adorable! Here is a pic of her with her cousin before the show:

They had so much fun! The boys have been busy and are enjoying the start of school as well, but sadly I did not end up with any fabulous pictures of them this week - need to get snapping a few more! We are leaving shortly for a BBQ at my mom's so maybe I can get some good ones of them there!

My really exciting news for the week is that today begins my role on the Design Team at Making Memories for You. I am so excited to be able to be a part of this team. I love the people on this board, and really enjoy spending time there - if you haven't done so already, come by and check it out - and PLEASE join in the fun! My design team commitment is through November, and I am really looking forward to sharing fun things with you during that time.

This month I received a Fabulous "Big and Juicy" kit from Kelly at Keep In Touch. This kit was jam packed with scrappy goodness! It was a travel themed kit, featuring mostly items from the Making Memories Passport line. Since we just returned from a trip to NY, I was inspired to complete a travel album. I had an acrylic album in my stash just waiting to be used. This was my first attempt at an acrylic album, and it was worth the challenge - I had a lot of fun making this! In addition to the acrylic album, I also used stamps, felt trim, lace, a couple of the flowers, chipboard and alpha stickers from my stash. All of the papers and all of the other embellishments and trims are from this amazing kit. Thanks Kelly and MMFY!

Here is the album I created:

I also created a card for DT...I added the red Bazzill, thickers and rubons, stamped image and the prima to the card, papers, trim and button from the kit:

Well, that is all for now. Thankfully I am feeling better and getting my "GROOVE" back, so hopefully you will see a lot more of me in September.

Happy Scrapping and HUGS!!
KP

I'm able to share this after all...

2008-08-04T18:27:00.001-07:00

I am sad to say that I was eliminated from the contest that I was participating in, because I did not read the rules carefully enough and uploaded incorrectly. I felt pretty silly at first, but then realized that half the contestants made the same mistake, so I guess that just confirms that I am average! LOL. But even though I am sad not to be moving on and playing in the contest, I am delighted to be able to share this layout with you. I created this layout for the WWW.MakingMemoriesForYou.Org Simplicity Or Embellishment Contest.

This layout is of my bestest and sweetest friend, Charissa. Yep, she rocks.

Patterned papers and Die Cut are Pink Paislee. Cardstock is Bazzill and SU. Lace is from Joanne's. The chipboard alpha is Scenic Route, and the alpha stickers are Basic Grey. I made the flowers using old newspaper. I sprayed them with Walnut Ink and then sponged on some blue ink. I found the idea to make flowers like these here - I think they are FABULOUS and love the way they work on this layout....you should try it! They were a lot of fun to make! The stems are just torn and rolled cardstock.

Aside from this one, I have just been working on cards. Slowly I might add. I spent the weekend with a HORRENDOUS migraine and am just getting back to myself, so I hope to get in some productive time this week and get the cards done so I can get back to SCRAPPIN!! Have a wonderful fabulous amazing week!

Okay, I know...

2008-08-02T10:43:00.000-07:00

I am a serious blog slacker!! I apologize for not updating sooner...life has been... yes let's say it together...CRAZY! We made it back from our amazing trip, and things have not settled down since! I have not even had a chance to edit the photos yet, but I promise I will share them (and the scrappy pages I create with them) soon. We went to Niagara falls - it was gorgeous! And we had a great time toodling around Western NY - I am so amazed at how absolutely beautiful it was there, and I just loved the small town feel and gorgeous old homes in the town we stayed in. I LOVED IT there! The wedding was lovely, and it was an all around good time.

Since we got back, I have been trying to recover the lost sleep from travel weariness, and keeping really busy with work. I have done a little scrapping, and have one page to share with you today.

This layout is of my daughter Lauren with her cousins Adeline and Lily on Lauren's 5th birthday. My husband brought home a gigantic cardboard box from work and made it into a castle - the girls had so much fun playing in it! And aren't they just the cutest little things ever!

I created this layout using patterned papers from GCD Studios and Creative Imaginations, foam letters from American Crafts (thickers), alpha stickers from Pink Paislee, brads from Creative Imaginations, rhinestones are Crystal Elements. I used an exacto to cut the flower design from patterned paper. I stitching is done by hand. I cut the butterflies using Scenic Route chipboard as a template, added glitter and rhinestones and raised with 3d glue dots.

I am working on some other layouts, but they are for a contest over at MakingMemoriesForYou, and I am not allowed to post them until after the contest ends...so if you want to see them before then you will have to visit the gallery here. The contest opens and entries are due tomorrow, August 3rd so come check it out! I am also busy working on card designs and prep for my upcoming Stamp A Stack, but can't share those yet either. Here's hoping I get a LOT more scrappy time next week!

Hope you all have a great weekend...
hugs, KP

I MADE IT!!!

2008-07-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be able to announce that I will be joining the Design Team for Making Memories for You!! I am so thrilled and honored to be chosen...this site is so much fun, and I am truly enjoying the friendship of the members here as well as the amazing talent that they share! I can't wait to get started. My "term" on the team will start in September. I will have the pleasure of working with kits from THIS shop - I can't wait, these kits are ROCKIN' and I hope to really be able to do my part to show them off! I will be anxiously awaiting my first shipment - it can't get here soon enough!! Did I mention that I am excited?? I hope that you will join me in the fun over at MMFY!!

We're leaving on a jet plane...

2008-07-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

Woo hoo - taking the red eye tonight, going to New York! I have never been, but my SIL is getting married on Saturday, so we are going to celebrate her nuptuals, and enjoy a week of fun and excitement! We will be in upstate NY, and plan to visit Niagara Falls. I simply can not wait, I think this has got to be one of the most beautiful and amazing places on the planet! We have a few other things in mind to do on our trip, as well as a must stop plan for some wings while in Buffalo! I have the camera packed, and am hoping for some great scrap photo opportunities! Everyone have an amazing week!

I'm still SCRAPPIN!

2008-07-07T19:50:00.001-07:00

This week has been filled with lovely things like birthday parties, sleepovers, BBQ's, fireworks and fun by the pool with friends. But I still managed to get in a little scrappy time!!

I have decided to try ONE MORE TIME for a design team spot - I am determined to keep at it until I find the spot for me! This time I am in a DT contest for MakingMemoriesForYou. I love this place, so hopefully it turns out to be a great fit, but even if not, I am having a wonderful time challenging myself and have created a layout that I absolutely love.

Of course, this is my beautiful daughter Lauren. I LOVE this photo of her, captured at her preschool graduation ceremony... looking up at me with that special "I love you mommy" look. The CS is Bazzill. The patterned papers are Prima, as is the rub on. I distressed and inked the edges, and then I exacto cut the flowers. I applied a Glitz pearl in each flower center. I had a hard time finding the right flowers for this layout, and ended up cutting most of these from an arrangement in my bedroom (how's that for recycling!) The vintage buttons were a gift from a LOVELY lady from one of my classes that let me pick through her grandmother's collection - THANK YOU SHELLEY! They are just gorgeous! The chipboard keyhole is Melissa Frances and the alpha is Creative Imaginations. The tiny alpha is Making Memories, the tiny key charm is Heart & Soul, Lace is from Joanne's.

Here are some close up shots for detail:

I also made a card for this call. I had a lot of fun with this one - The flowers are hand cut circles that I distressed, inked and doodled. I hand stitched the stems and leaves. The papers are Fancy Pants, and the Rub On is American Crafts.

AND I even had time to get one more layout done just for fun. I have been wanting to capture Ethan's adorable little freckles in a layout for awhile, and finally snapped some pics this weekend that really showed them. His sweet little face makes me smile!

CS is Bazzill, Papers are My Mind's Eye, Creative Imaginations and BoBunny. The Rub On is Glitz, and the Chipboard is Scenic Route. The buttons are from my growing stash.

Have I mentioned that I LOVE BUTTONS!! I think I may be working through a little addiction on this one. I just can not get enough, and seem to use them on EVERY layout. If anyone else has a grandma's collection that they want to share, you know where to find me!!

I am off to get the kids to bed so that I can veg out and watch some reality tv...yep, tonight is the Bachelorette Finale (lol YES I DO watch this stuff!)

I hope to get some scrappy time this weekend, but we are gearing up for a big trip, so who knows how much play time I will get. It all depends on how organized I am I guess...keep your fingers crossed that I get a little time, so I don't go crazy!
Have a WONDERFUL week!!
HUGS, KP

A fun layout to share

2008-06-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

I had SOOO much fun making this layout. I love working with circles, and of course everyone knows I love LOVE buttons, so this challenge was right up my alley. For the last round of the Last Scrapper Standing contest that I am playing in, the challenge was to use circles for the layout - we could do anything we wanted, as long as circles were the focus. I created this layout using a 12x12 acrylic sheet as the base...I love how this turned out and will be doing it again for sure! I think it is fun and whimsical, and love how the buttons are floating on the page!

The patterned papers are Creative Imaginations, We are Memory Keepers and BoBunny, the transparency is Hambly Screenprints, the mini alpha stickers are Making Memories, and the chipboard alpha is AC Thickers. I don't know the maker of the felt circle strip, and the miscellaneous buttons are from my collection. The other entries this round are fantastic!! You should check out these AMAZING ladies work HERE! I feel so honored to be playing amongst this talent!!

Thanks for Looking!!

What else is new with us? Not a lot - we are busy, and finding time to scrap is as always my biggest challenge. The kids are done with school, but the little ones will be starting CDI (childcare at the school while off track) for the summer since I am working every day -- it looks like they make it pretty fun for them...I sure hope so! We are gearing up for our trip to New York - my SIL is getting hitched. We are looking forward to a week in a hotel with a pool, and we are planning to see Niagara Falls (and who knows what else we may have time for) while we are there.

As you know, my favorite thing to do (next to scrapping of course) is to visit scrappy sites and message boards looking for inspiration. I love to share ideas and the general love of all things scrappy. I have been sharing a few of my favorites lately, so I wanted to share another NEW FAVORITE!! Making Memories for You has become a new daily visit -- the people there are SO friendly and fun, the chat is lively, and the talent is fantastic!! The gallery is in transition at the moment, so you have to wait a bit on that, but join me over there and jump in the fun!

Well, that is all for now...I am off to clean the scrap area and maybe try to work on a project before bed -- I have been in the sun all afternoon though so I may just read a book instead. Have a WONDERFUL weekend!!

Oh, how exciting!!

2008-06-23T19:43:00.001-07:00

I am so excited, I can hardly stand it!

I have been participating in the "Last Scrapper Standing" contest over at Create My Keepsake. This is an ongoing contest that the winner of the final round receives a Design Team position on their site. Now, I can tell you that I honestly feel that Create My Keepsake is one of the VERY best message boards I have visited, and it is filled with the most amazing and talented scrappy women I have EVER come into contact with. If you have never visited, I HIGHLY encourage you to check out the AMAZING gallery and visit the lively and fun forums. I am seriously inspired every single day by the work on this site.

Anyway, I have been participating in this contest, and am DELIGHTED to share that I have made it to the TOP 10!!!!! I nearly wet myself when I learned this morning that MY NAME was on the list with 9 other PHENOMENAL artists moving on to the next round. I am so honored and amazed, and DELIGHTED!!!

Here is the project that I submitted for this round -- yes it is a bit unusual, but there is a story (detailed below), and the result is one that is very meaningful to me.

The challenge for this round was to use a T-shirt slogan as inspiration to complete an altered art project or a card. I decided to use the slogan "GEEK INSIDE" found HERE as my inspiration. My son loves the T-Shirts at www.thinkgeek.com and any shirts related to computers and gaming. I thought that I would create an altered photo frame for a picture of my "geek". I decided that it would be fun to use the parts from our old computer as embellishments for the frame. As I worked through this idea, I really started an emotional journey which led me to this project.
The only reason that we still had this old IMAC around, is because it holds a LOT of sentimental value. It was the last thing that my father gave to our family before he passed away. This was his gift to my son on his 7th birthday -- and in fact I am quite certain that one of the main reasons that my dad hung on and fought to live for as long as he did was that is was SO important to him to see this gift given to my son. He passed away just a few weeks after my son's birthday. From the time that my son was born, he and papa were BEST friends, and in addition to this computer, he shared with my son an overwhelming love of and obsession with computers and technology. It has been his gift, and is now my son's passion. This computer was used as our family computer up until the end of last year when it finally died. It was really difficult to lose it, as it always reminded me of my father. So I decided what an interesting and meaningful project it would be to preserve this gift as an art project, and memory for us all of my father's gift and legacy to my son. Yes, it is unusual, but it will be treasured. My son helped with this project - he really enjoyed disassembling the computer and keyboard for the parts I used as embellishments, and sat with me through many of the hours I struggled with this to see how it was coming and offer his input - he has never taken an interest in my scrapbooking before, so that was quite a treat for me!

I used Pink Paislee papers. Ribbon is SU, Tiny alpha is Making Memories, chipboard is Basic Grey, transparancies are Club Scrap. I used computer parts and keyboard letters as embellishment, and the cool green strip at the top left area is from inside the keyboard.

The base of the imac is stained green with ink, and then I used reinforcement holes as a mask and inked with stazon for the stripe of dots around the base. I covered a vinyl pocket protector and attached it and put the "WHOLE" story inside so we will always remember WHY this computer is so special to us.

This was a really fun project, and I am so glad to have had this experience. AND I am so excited to work on the NEXT challenge.

You can see the work of the other competitors as follows:

Initial Entries
Challenge 1
Challenge 2

In other news -- I am planning my next STAMP A STACK! I am only doing these about quarterly now - life is JUST TOO BUSY to do more right now, but I LOVE doing them, and having a chance to see my stamping friends! I am really looking forward to planning one for the NEW CATALOG! I will be holding the class on Sunday, August 24th - making 18 cards using new catalog goodies! I can't wait to get my new toys and start planning some fun stuff!

Thanks for stopping by and sharing in my great day! Hope your week is wonderful!
Hugs,
KP

One SWEET challenge!

2008-06-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

I have been working on a layout for a challenge over at CMK. The challenge was to scrap my "weakness", which of course is SUGAR!! I actually have to work hard to avoid sugar, or my addiction can get pretty out of control. Working on this layout has led to several days of sugar frenzy, since I had to BUY all of this candy in order to use the wrappers for the layout...so of course, I had to eat the contents...MMMMM that was one sweet challenge!

I had a lot of fun with this one! CS is Bazzill and I used Bazzill edge, felt is Queen & Co, Foam letters are AC Thickers, and Sugared letters are Doodlebug, Chipboard letters are Basic Grey, Patterned Papers are My Mind's Eye and Pink Paislee. I used Licorice, Skittles and Mike & Ike's (sprayed with acrylic sealant) on the starburst wrapper flowers - hard to see but the other flower uses a punched gobstopper box and says "candy" on it.

Here is the page showing the hidden journaling: It reads "It is my weakness. Licorice, Dots, skittles, jelly beans...I love it all! I really need to avoid it completely, because once I have a little, I just can't stop!"

Thanks for looking! I am headed off to an afternoon at the pool...enjoy your weekend!

More Scrapping!

2008-06-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it - I finished another layout. I did not get a great photo, will try again later and update if I can - i never seem to get good pics of 2 pagers...and I had to do a 2 pager for this one because I really loved all of the photos. These are more of Lauren in her hat (we made it together) for the Mother's Day Tea at preschool.

The patterned papers are all Paper Salon, the Cardstock is Bazzill, the Chipboard alpha is Basic Grey, the foam alpha is AC Thickers, flowers are prima, misc. buttons. I used my BRAND NEW Threading Water punch - yeah, it rocks!

I am off to do some serious lounging and a whole lot of relaxing today - maybe read a book. Yep, life is good!

Have a WONDERFUL day.
Hugs, KP

One done!

2008-06-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

Well, I said I was going to scrap this weekend - I have a party to go to this evening, so I am trying to get what I can done before going. I finished one layout, and am getting started on a second - hopefully to finish at least one more by Sunday night. This one was completed for Challenge #2 at 2ScrappyChixDesigns online crop - the challenge was to use at least 2 types of bling - yeah, I picked that one of course.

I used Paper Salon and American Crafts papers (that I bought last night --LOVE these colors!) Bazzill Cardstock, Doodlebug and Luxe alpha stickers, Glitz Icing and Prima Say it with Crystals, Creative Cafe and Bazzill brads, Stampin' Up! Rub on.

I am off to try to get another layout done before I leave...have a WONDERFUL and restful weekend!

I've found a new place to play...

2008-06-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

I am always in search of fun places to talk scrap, and have stumbled upon a new message board that I am enjoying playing at -- today I will be hanging out at the virtual CROP at 2ScrappyChixDesigns. Come join me there and let's get scrappin!

I DO plan to be scrappin most of the day today, so hope to have some new stuff to share tomorrow! I went on a serious shopping spree yesterday, only because my friend NICOLE is a VERY bad influence, so I have new pretties to play with... I am so excited!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Another lovely week!

2008-06-04T21:21:00.000-07:00

What good week we have had - I kid you not - feeling good is such a beautiful thing. I just want to shout from the rooftops - I am so grateful to have the blessings that I have, and to feel good enough to completely enjoy them all!
We had a busy weekend - Friday night was the Family Fun Night at the kids elementary school. They had such a good time!! And Lauren and Ethan won goldfish, so we have new pets too! Then on Saturday we went to the wedding of a long time family friend - it was a lovely ceremony, and a really fun reception. My mother made the wedding dress - it was simply stunning. I got a little teary when the father of the bride (my dad's best friend) mentioned how much he wished my dad could be there. I really do too. But it was a beautiful night - my daughter and her two cousins danced the night away, it was simply priceless!
Sunday was relax day - I even enjoyed a little scrap time!!

I completed this layout. This one is kind of a 2-fer - design team work and a contest entry. I used products from my design team at Scrappin with Grace - this is the Katlin line from Crate Paper, and it is simply gorgeous! I completed this layout for the "Last Scrapper Standing" contest at CMK - the assignment for the initial entry was to do a scraplift of one of the design team's work. I chose this layout by Amy Tara Koeppel to lift - she rocks, and I love every thing that she does! I really love the way this layout turned out! The flowers and vines are cut from the patterned paper, and layered with dimensional adhesive, and the frame around the lower photo is raised as well.

All papers are by Crate Paper, the letter stickers are doodlebug designs and AC Thickers, and the brads in flower centers are by Creative Cafe.

Thanks so much for looking! I hope that you are all having a wonderful day!
I just got to go out to dinner to a new Vietnamese restaurant-- it was just SO fresh and yummy and I had the delightful company of a new friend....yep, life is good!

Blessings,
KP

Two new layouts

2008-05-26T11:52:00.001-07:00

I was able to finish 2 layouts yesterday for my design team at Scrappin with Grace -

All papers are Pink Paislee - Love these colors! Cardstock and buttons are SU. Felt is Creative Cafe. Chipboard letters are AC Thickers and alpha stickers are Pink Paislee.

I LOVE these photos of Christian - it is so rare to catch a smile, and it is such a beautiful thing when you get a glimpse of it!! Tried to keep this page simple and masculine - never easy for me. Papers are all Pink Paislee, transparancies are Hambly, tiny alpha is Making Memories, and Foam alphas are AC Thickers.

Have a WONDERFUL Holiday Weekend!!

2008-05-25T11:33:00.001-07:00

We are planning on laying low this long weekend - grateful for the easy pace and a little quiet time! We're hoping to get the kids to see Indiana Jones this weekend, and then if the weather allows, a BBQ and swim outing with friends on Monday. And of course, as much as I am able, I will be scrapping!! It seems layouts are taking me forever to finish lately, so I hope that I can remedy that and maybe get a few accomplished over the long weekend - we will see!

I did get photos from Easter and some from the Mother's Day Tea at Lauren's preschool printed yesterday, and they go beautifully with the papers that I received for this month's design team projects at Scrappin with Grace - so I have no excuses!!

I finished this layout this morning.

The patterned papers are all Pink Paislee (LOVE LOVE PINK PAISLEE!!). The chipboard alphas are Scenic Route and Lisa Bearnson. Letter stickers are Pink Paislee. Ribbon, pearls and CS are SU, lace from Joanne's. And yes, the "beauty" in the title really shows up just fine - just not in the photo! Below is a detail shot of the flowers and pearls - they are raised with pop up glue dots.

I am off to make a yummy and extremely fattening brunch for the family, and then back to scrapping! Hope you all have a wonderful and restful weekend!
KP

Happy Monday!

2008-05-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all doing well! I can honestly say that I am doing GREAT! We had a lovely weekend, even though the weather was over 100 degrees here! We spent the day Saturday swimming at grandma's, went out for a lovely dinner with the inlaws, and then yesterday I took the kids to see Horton Hears a Who at the nice, chilly movie theater! I am feeling so fantastic and energetic these days...who knows, I might even start to catch up with my crazy life! I started drinking an amazing nutritional supplement that has done such wonderful things for my body - How awesome is it to feel great!?!

Anyway, I got a layout done this week!! I was so excited to receive my kit for design team at Scrappin with Grace this month! There was a mix up with last month's kit, so I received both April and May on Friday. I have so much pretty stuff to play with! I am hoping to get lot's of time this week so I can really show it off. I received products from Crate Paper (April's Sponsor) and from Pink Paislee (May's Sponsor), and an adorable album set from SEI - all of which I LOVE LOVE LOVE so I have no excuses not to scrap! Although I do need to spend some time editing photos so that I have something to work on!

This layout was done using the Blue Hill collection from Crate Paper...OMG I love every piece of paper in this collection! The colors are simply gorgeous!

These photos were taken of Lauren at Disneyland last summer - she LOVED having her face painted!! I used the negative space from some Scenic Route chipboard as a template for the butterflies.

All patterned papers are Crate Paper. The chipboard (glitter) letters are American Crafts Thickers, the crystal swirls are Prima, the pearls are Icing by Glitz Designs, the rub on is by Hambly Studios, and I used Making Memories tiny alpha. I wished the photos showed the "bling" a bit better!

Well, I hope you all have a wonderful week - blessings and hugs!
KP

A Crazy Week, A Crazy Night, and some Crazy Women!

2008-05-05T23:40:00.001-07:00

Yep...that's what I have to talk about since my last update. I know, I ALWAYS say life is Crazy...but it is always true! The past week or two have been no exception. I am back to work full time, which is great, but means I have less time than ever, so yeah...CRAZY!! In fact, in the last two weeks I have had my son's birthday, my husband's birthday, my wedding anniversary, my Mother in Law's birthday, a party for a friend's birthday and two of the kids friend's with birthday parties to attend. Yikes!

Can you believe my oldest child has become a teenager! I can't... I am trying to let it sink in. The fact that my house has been TP'ed and I get prank calls from silly children on a regular basis makes it very clear that this is real!! I had the pleasure of having 5 teenage boys to spend the night the weekend before last... THAT was an experience! Aside from losing a night of sleep, I think the part I will carry with me always is the memory of thirteen year old boys (most of which I have known since kindergarten and one of which I gave birth to) telling "That's what she said" jokes till dawn. Painful. I want to laugh, and cry at the same time! Sigh.

I have had a little scrappy time (a very little, but I made it worth it!) and made a gift album for my dear and beautiful friend Nicole, who turned 30 today (well, I guess officially yesterday since it is now after midnight) -- HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICOLE! Here she is at her cutest!

That is one hot momma!! :)

She was totally surprised - which rocked! I was so glad to have been a part of making her day special.
Here she is with her best friend Stephanie, who throws one fantastic party!! Good Times, I tell ya!
Of course, I loved getting a chance for a night with the girls, and got to spend time with the very lovely Charissa - this girl rocks!

AND I got to see my sweet friend Ali, who better email me so we can see eachother more than once a year!!

Here is a group shot -- Aren't we cute?? And isn't it adorable that we all somehow ended up color coordinated. Yep, we are cool.

One more photo...me and my birthday buddy. We made a pact that I am going to wait for her to catch up to me before having any more birthdays of my own. Yes, it is silly that I have friends turning 30... I think it says a lot for my maturity level!! (I also agree that you are as old as you feel - so it works!)

Here is the album I made for her to keep notes and photos to remember her special night. I added some pages for guests to sign, and she can add pics and mementos as well. I used a Maya Road chipboard album, and mostly Pink Paislee products for this book! I had so much fun making this for my friend, and hope she truly enjoys it!!

I got to meet T!M today!!!

2008-04-26T17:38:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness I had the best day EVER! I happen to think that Tim Holtz is a genius... just a creative miracle. And I had the absolute pleasure today to spend the day watching him create, learning amazing techniques to use with his incredible products. It was truly a day to remember!!

Tim came today to do a FREE demonstration at Stamper's Corner...the local scrapbook store in my neighborhood. I was a little worried that it would be impossible to get in - after all, this is TIM HOLTZ that we are talking about, so I got to the store at 6:30 this morning...I was the first one in line. Yep, it was worth it.

First in line meant I got the first photo with Tim, and I got the best seat in the house for the demo. I was so impressed, not with just his creative ability - (although I was impressed with this of course - I wish just a LITTLE of his brilliance would rub off on me! Hopefully after a day of being 2 feet away some of the magic dust will have been absorbed! I am sure he "flicked" some my way!) -but also with how personable, fun and down to earth he was. I learned a few new words and phrases that will stay with me for a while. He is a funny man... seriously adorable.

I was able to participate in 2 separate demonstrations (morning and afternoon) - one on grungeboard, and one on ATC's and ink techniques... I learned so much!! We got to make a grungeboard bracelet (cute) and I had him autograph a Grungeboard "T" for my layout of these photos!

Of course, the demo was free, but this man is a born salesman and, well ... I am weak and easily convinced - so I bought a lot of goodies, and have a new LONG list of things I "NEED" (like I needed help in this area).

Anyway, I am so thankful to stamper's corner for hosting this wonderful day, and to Tim for sharing his brilliance with us here in Elk Grove. And I am certain to become a serious Tim stalker now so I will be saving for my scrap cruise - someday!

Hope you had a great day too - although I am certain it did not come CLOSE to as great as mine! Thanks Tim!

Finally!!

2008-04-19T12:46:00.001-07:00

A little scrappy time today! I finished up some layouts I have been working on -- I just have not had any time to scrap all week, so these sat incomplete on my desk sadly awaiting my return. It feels so great to have them done, and I got to clean up my work space so I can get started on something new later today!! Maybe I can start and finish a layout before the end of the weekend...keep those fingers crossed that the mojo keeps rolling!!

Both of these layouts were completed for challenges over at Coordinates Collections...

This first one was completed for the Daisy D's sponsor contest - I do love Daisy D's!! All papers and the journaling die cuts are Daisy D's, the chipboard letters are Scenic Route, the Vinyl letters are American Crafts Thickers, the Rub on's are Luxe Designs, the stamp is Stampin' Up! and the brad is Creative Imaginations.

This next layout is one I completed for the Guest Designer contest. The only guideline was to use 4 photographs on a single page layout. I really wanted to push myself to do something outside of my comfort zone, and I am really pleased with the result. This is my first effort at an "off the page" design - I really enjoyed doing this! The cardstock is Stampin' Up!, the patterned papers are Autumn Leaves, the Journaling stamp is Stampin' Up! and the crown stamp is Pink Paislee, the crown tape is the new clear tape by Prima (love this!), the sugar coated chipboard letters are Doodlebug, and the foam letters are AC Thickers, ghost flower is Heidi Swapp, brads are Creative Imaginations, scallop cardstock is Bazzill edge, Lace cardstock is KI.

Thanks for looking! Hope you are all having a great weekend!

Happy Sunday!

2008-04-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all having a lovely day! I had a Stamp a Stack today, so although I am exhausted from a long day, I had a very fun day - got a chance to hang out with some lovely ladies, and I actually got to do some stamping! FUN FUN!! Here are the cards that we completed today - I bought pretty much the entire Occasions Mini catalog, so many of the stamp sets used are new toys! I did my best to keep it simple, and everyone seemed to have a great time!!

This first one uses the new set "Essence of Love" with one of my favorite color combinations, Soft Sky and Chocolate Chip.

This card uses a new one for me, part of the "Free Wheelin" promotion - Wonderful You, in Blush Blossom, Groovy Guava and Close to Cocoa.

I love this new set, "Friendly Flowers" and love this color combo of River Rock, Black and White .

Loving these new Star punches - I used the Celebrate Everything stamp set, and punched a hole buncha stars - the small star is from the Nursery Necessities set. I liked this color combo since it can work for those masculine card needs! Old Olive, Real Red and Night of Navy.

I thought this one would make a great Mother's Day card... I used the Bloomin Beautiful set - a new favorite of course!! I love it with the Floral Background and Canvas background. Colors are Pale Plum, Perfect Plum, Elegant Eggplant and Mellow Moss.

And finally this is the Big Bold Birthday set - I LOVE this set for birthdays! Color combo is Real Red, Wild Wasabi, Bashful Blue and Pumpkin Pie.

I had a great time -- thanks to those that came and played with me!!

In other news...
We are having a contest for the GUEST DESIGNER SPOT for MAY at Scrappin' with Grace. The winner will receive products from our May Sponsor PINK PAISLEE!!!! to design with and share in the month of May. PINK PAISLEE ROCKS OUT LOUD so come and play, we'd love to see your work! Entries are due by April 30th. Details are HERE.

We are also having a CRATE PAPER contest - entries for this are due by April 27th. Just design a page using products from Crate Paper, our April Sponsor and submit them to our gallery. The winner will receive a prize package of Crate Paper products!! You can enter as many layouts as you like, for more chances to win! Hope to see your entries! The details for this one are HERE.

That is all for now...have a wonderful week!! I start back to work full time this week, so I may have even less time for scrappy goodness, but I plan to keep on trying and checking in as often as I can. Hugs,
KP

Counting My Blessings - New Layout

2008-04-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

I finished a new layout this week, so I wanted to take a moment to share. I actually did this on Thursday, when I got the chance to have a little scrappy time with my friend Charissa. Great company as always, and I had a great time on this layout.

The patterned papers are Pink Paislee (Graph, Multi-stripe and orange die cut) Rhona Farrer (green floral scallop) and My Mind's Eye (orange paisley); The letter stickers are American Crafts Thickers and Pink Paislee, Flowers are Prima, Chipboard 3's are Basic Grey, Rusty Pickle, American Crafts, and Lisa Bearnson, Plastic 3 is Heidi Swapp, ink Stampin' Up!

Thanks for looking! Hope you are having a great weekend!

Halooooo!

2008-03-28T17:10:00.000-07:00

Yep, I am still alive. I can't believe how long it has been since I have posted. Every day I have it on the list of things to do, and every day gets away from me and I don't get to it! It has been a couple of busy weeks, so I have lots of catching up to do!

My husband took the kids camping during spring break -- they had an awesome time! I did not have any vacation time available, so I stayed home...and completely enjoyed 5 days of quiet time, a clean house, a chance to eat, sleep and scrap when I wanted...it was just delightful! My friend Nicole came to have dinner and scrap with me one night, which is a rare and wonderful treat!! And I went on a shopping trip with my mom, and then out for the BEST dinner I have had in ages...mmmmmmm, we went to Bandera for grilled artichoke and Prime Rib, followed by a delightful Creme Brulee. Which means that NOW, I am back on my diet. Bleh.

We had a great Easter...very laid back and fun. The kids enjoyed playing out at my Mom's and seeing their cousins, aunts and uncles. I actually got a few decent photos of egg dying and the hunt...This is the first Easter EVER that I have had anything scrap worthy, so I am looking forward to doing something fun with them.

I start back to work full time soon, so I am trying hard to pack in as much of my other duties as possible before then...which means things are BUSY! But I am so delighted that my work is giving me the opportunity to work more... it really is time, and hopefully it will help!!

I have not updated regarding the "contest" yet -- I had so much fun doing that, and really look forward to other opportunities to learn and grow! One of my competitors, Leah, ended up the grand prize winner, but I am so thrilled to have been in a "runner up" position. Since I never imagined I would make it anywhere near the final three, I certainly can't be disappointed...I feel so honored and proud to have achieved "finalist" status! I got a fabulous prize package from Coordinates Collections...I can't wait to use it! I received several scrap kits from Cloud 9 designs, one from Scrapworks, some Thickers, a book, some MM foam stamps and chipboard...and more! What a wonderful treat! Definitely worth it, so look out next year!

I have completed a few layouts since I last shared with you.

This layout was created for Design Team at Scrappin' with Grace, using the Cosmo Cricket "Cogsmo" line. I really enjoyed working with the Cosmo Cricket Blackboard. These photos are of my middle son, Ethan, back in Kindergarten, with his best buddy. All products are Cosmo Cricket except Dymo label tape.

The next layout is my beautiful daughter, Lauren. I love that she is still willing to "cheese" for me, and I always get a ton of photos of her when I pull out the camera. I decided to do a 2 page layout for this one, as I just could not leave out any of the pics! I used the March kit from Create my Keepsake for this one. Patterned paper and die cuts are Pink Paislee (love this stuff!) Cardstock is Bazzill, Die Cut Cardstock is KI memories, Pop Culture. Felt Flowers are American Crafts and Stampin' Up!, Chipboard alpha is American Crafts, and letter stickers are Doodlebug Designs, flowers are Prima, Crown is grungeboard.

And finally this one is of my oldest, Christian. He will be 13 next month, and the signs of things to come are all there...ALMOST a teen, I can hardly wait! I used the February kit from Create My Keepsake for this one. Patterned papers, alphabet stickers and journaling strip are Collage Press, Felt is Queen and Co, Rub ons are Daisy D's and Heidi Swapp, Ribbon unknown, Chipboard alpha and embellishment are Scenic Route.

The Final entries

2008-03-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

With voting complete for the Scrapping with the Stars contest at Coordinates Collections, I am able to share these with you now. These are the last two layouts completed for the final round. This first layout was to be done in the style of Kimberly Madrid, designer for CC.

Cardstock is SU, Patterned papers are My Mind's Eye, Lace is Joann's, Chipboard flourish is Rusty Pickle, Chipboard alpha is Lisa Bearnson, Flowers are Prima, Bird Charm is Blue Moon Beads, letter stickers are Basic Grey.

The Journaling reads: Lauren, this is a game we play together often. I tell you I love you, and you respond "I love you more". If I love you to the moon, you love me to the moon and back...and to Texas, and Hawaii, and Japan, and Sri Lanka, and back. It can go on for hours, so I usually let you win. But here is the truth, and don't ever forget it. I love you more!

This next layout is based on the work of Cathy Zielske. Cathy writes and designs for Simple Scrapbook magazines, and her trademark is work in a clean and simple, graphic style - this one was really hard for me!

I used SU cardstock, Cosmo Cricket and Fancy Pants patterned papers, AC Thickers, and the circle embellishments were from a bulk bin, so the source is unknown. I struggled to get a clear photo of this one - sorry it is not more crisp, I tried a dozen times!

The journaling reads: I have often said that you, Ethan, are my "EASY" child. Your good nature and easy-going personality are such a blessing! I can always count on yu to get your homework done without a struggle, clean up your mess when asked, play nicely with your sister, be ready on time...whatever I ask, really. And you typically do it with a smile! Life can be so difficult. It is nice to have you in my life, and to know that you are just "EASY".

A Layout at last!

2008-03-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

I have one to share! I finally completed this layout for the Design Team at Scrappin with Grace. Cosmo Cricket is our sponsor this month, which could not make me happier since I love all things Cosmo Cricket, and I especially love this COGSMO line that I got to work with. I have been trying for months to find the right papers to scrap these photos from Halloween, and the colors in this were just perfect! I have a few more projects in the works, just need to print some photos, and then find some time!

Here are closeups of each page...

All Patterned Paper is Cosmo Cricket COGSMO
Cardstock is Bazzill
Plastic letters are Heidi Swapp
Letter Stickers are Doodlebug Designs
Foam letters are AC Thickers
Chipboard Photo Corner is Bazzill
Buttons are Misc
Ink and pen are SU

I had a good time with this one, and am loving the vibrant colors!!

Hope you are having a great weekend!
Hugs, KP

Oh my heavens...

2008-03-14T20:22:00.000-07:00

I tell ya, I can't believe how nervous I am about this crazy contest! I am honestly completely and totally fine with being one of the top 3, and given the competition, not winning is just fine, but even so, I am so totally perseverating on it. It is torture. Monday can't come soon enough. I have become a stalker - as if checking in will make me know the answer sooner. So now you all know what a total goofball I am. I have no life. No more contests for a while - I can't handle it! lol

Love you all - I need to stop stalking and get busy scrapping...hope to have new layouts to share tomorrow!

Gaining some perspective...

2008-03-13T20:44:00.001-07:00

So, I just felt like sharing some thoughts today. I try not to delve into a lot of personal "real" life on my blog - keep it light and positive, that's what works for me. But today I am in a rambling about real life mood, so bear with me! Life has been truly challenging lately, and we are above average stressed. Mostly our challenge at this time is financial - we are blessed to live in California, which we love, but as I am sure you know, the housing market and economy are "pooh-pooh" of late. Since we refinanced when the market was high, and because my husband had been working as a home inspector and in school to be certified as a building inspector, this has hit us VERY hard, and it has left a lot of things up in the air and frankly scary. So this is life, and I know that I am by no means the only one experiencing it, but it is hard. I have tried so hard to stay positive, to keep my mind on the fun things, and I have been blessed with many happy distractions, but I do find myself taking far too much time in self pity and "poor me" moments.

HOWEVER, over the last few days, I have been really forced to gain perspective on what "real" problems are like. Yes, this sucks - but it is only money, only material possessions, and a house is only a house. period.
I spend a lot of my free time sharing with a large scrapbooking community, caring about others on message boards, blogs and the like, and my "cyber friends" keep me entertained, informed, and all around blessed. It is crazy, but these strangers are such an important part of my life, and they add so much to it! AND over the last few days, they have brought me to tears and called me to prayer more often than I would like to count. I have learned of deaths of children, read about children that have cancer, husbands with rare illnesses, parents in tragic accidents...it is overwhelming and heartbreaking, and real actual painful problems that make mine seem so small and insignificant.
I have spent today really counting (physically counting) my blessings. And through my tears and prayers for others, I have found so much to be thankful for. I am blessed. I am so sad and heartbroken for these women, and I want to be certain every day that while I am here, and while we are healthy, I don't waste time that will later be missed and regretted. So this is my reminder...my "note to self" if you will.
I have beautiful, healthy, amazing children. I have a hard working husband that is here every day and takes care of us. I get to talk to or see my wonderful mother every day. I have a job that makes me happy. I have friends that support me, and that I completely adore. I am blessed.

I truly hope that this finds you healthy and happy, and counting blessings of your own.
KP

OH. MY. GOSH.

2008-03-06T21:09:00.000-08:00

I am SOOOO excited to share with you that I made it in to the FINAL THREE in the Scrapping with the Stars contest at Coordinates Collections. I am truly so thrilled, honored and proud of myself for making it this far! The other participants in this contest have been SO amazing, I really feel so blessed to be among them. Considering that up until just a few months ago I was afraid to even enter a contest, to be competing and making it this far has been such an awesome experience. I have really been challenged to try new things, and have grown so much as a result. And I LOVE the work that I can now call mine that has come out of this!

Here are the layouts that I completed in the last round. The first is in the style of Jenn Dubbs - Design Team member at Coordinates Collections.

I used My Mind's Eye and My Little Shoebox patterned papers, Lisa Bearnson chipboard, My Mind's Eye journaling card and transparancy, Stampin' Up! Ink, and a lot of exacto work!

The next is a layout in the style of Tim Holtz. This one was really challenging for me. I adore Tim Holtz, and think he is a genius, but his style is very different from my own. That said, I am really happy with how this turned out, as hard as it was.

I used PP by K & Co, Bazzill CS, Grungeboard and cutout alpha letters byTim Holtz, letter brads are Rusty Pickle, small round letters are K & Co, Leather frame is Making Memories, Tags are Avery, Stamps are Stampin' Up!, inks are Ranger and Stampin' Up!. The keyhole and photo corner embellishments were from a bulk bin, so source is unknown.
The journaling along the edge reads: Fishing, Hiking, Climbing, finding rocks and pinecones...my boys LOVE to explore.

I can't believe I did it...and now I have to do ONE MORE round - voting for the next round will be from March 13 - 17, so be sure to check it out during that time, and wish me luck!!

In other news...
Today was Ethan's 9th birthday. I can't believe he is possibly that old... what does that say? I know, I am REALLY getting up there lol. We were invited to dinner with my LOVELY friend Charissa, who had coupons for some ROCKIN' burgers at Chili's. I ate so much I am going to explode. And since tomorrow is the birthday party, tomorrow is a wash for the diet as well! Ethan loved getting to go out, and getting some POKEMON cards, since that is the current obsession! I am so glad he had a nice evening, I sure do adore that sweet little boy!

Lauren and I spent most of the day at the dentist - we went twice because they had not reserved enough time to do the work they decided to do to fix her front teeth. Sadly the tooth next to the one that broke had started to turn dark. Since she is probably 2 years from losing the teeth naturally, I really wanted to try to improve them cosmetically. They did some bonding work on both teeth, and although they are "better" they are still not "good". But unfortunately each time we go it seems to get more challenging, so I think I just need to live with it. No one but me even really notices (and I can always photoshop the smile in her pictures for the next 2 years - so it will be like it never really happened lol). I wish I new a great cosmetic dentist who would work on kids! But her smile is still gorgeous, just not the SAME gorgeous it used to be.

Christian is still fighting with being sick - we thought he was better, but he had a little rebound last week, and had to miss more school. It is KILLING us, since he really is not getting time to recover fully with all of the extra school work to make up he is up so late every night, dragging, and I am not sure he will EVER get on top of it! It is so frustrating to watch, as I know he is really trying but just can't catch a break! I can't wait for spring break so he can hopefully just rest and really get well!

I better be done for tonight - I need to wrap things up and watch American Idol before bed. Hope your night is fabulous!

Layouts done!

2008-02-28T13:44:00.000-08:00

I finished up my entries for the contest at Coordinates Collections today -- WHEW that was the hardest round yet!! I am so glad to be done. I can't upload them, but you can stop by and see what I created HERE and HERE. The layouts are not due until the 3rd, so I expect you may have to wait to see what the competition looks like...but I am really pleased with how these turned out, and mostly glad they are finished! I won't be able to check in for a few days, so have a great weekend!

It's Thursday again...

2008-02-28T07:27:00.000-08:00

Good Morning! Finally a moment to catch up here. I would say it has been busy, but it really has just been the everyday craziness that is life. Everybody is healthy here (YAY!) and I am delighted to say that we are heading out for a weekend trip tomorrow to play in the snow. We need a brief break from the everyday, and are really looking forward to it! We get to play, visit with friends, get some new material to scrap - all around good times!!

I finished this layout earlier in the week, just did not get a chance to share yet:

I completed this one for a challenge at Create My Keepsake. I love making these cute flowers!

Paper are My Mind's Eye and Making Memories, Felt flowers and ric rac are Creative Cafe, Chipboard letters are Scenic Route, Rub On's are Making Memories, and buttons are fabric store finds.

In other news.... I made it through to the next round in the Scrapping with the Stars contest at Coordinates Collections- I am so excited (and shocked!) - we are down to 6 participants. I am really having fun with this!! I need to finish my entry for this round today, since I will be out of town this weekend. Wish me luck!!

And don't forget to stop by at Scrappin' with Grace to check out the details for our Last Scrapper Standing contest!! Entries are due on the 1st (THIS Saturday) and I promise it will be FUN!!

Have a great weekend!

Last Scrapper Standing contest...

2008-02-23T09:34:00.000-08:00

Scrappin with Grace is holding a fun contest - be sure to check it out!! You can find all of the details HERE

I hope you will come and join in the fun!!! I get to enjoy being a judge in this one, how cool is that!!

The LAST SCRAPPER STANDING runs through the month of March - and the PRIZE is a $50 value COSMO CRICKET package!!!

In order to enter, you need to submit a layout that you consider to be your best work by March 1st at 6:00pm CST. GET BUSY, send us your best - the design team and administration at SWG will vote to choose the top 75% of entries to move on to round one by March 3rd. I hope you will come and play - it will be a lot of fun, and who doesn't love COSMO CRICKET!! Check it out! I look forward to seeing your work!

I'm still here!

2008-02-21T20:27:00.000-08:00

Sorry - I know it has been a few days ...time just seems to get away from me some days! It has been a little crazy, but what else is new! Christian is back to human again - thank goodness - he is SOOOO skinny though! We will be stuffing him with junk food for a while so he will be able to hold his pants up again lol. Everything else is status quo...reality television seems to be interrupting life and keeping me from getting much done - I don't know how I became such a junkie!

The voting has ended for this round of the Scrapping with the Stars contest at Coordinates Collections, so I am able to share my layouts with you now.

This layout was inspired by the work of Elsie Flannigan

I love Elsie's use of fun and unique embellishments, and had a ton of fun working with these trims, beads and buttons. She made similar paper flowers that were posted on her blog and I LOVED them - these make me smile! I painted and hand journaled, hand drew and cut the title.

The second layout is based on the work of Mimi Shramm - designer for Coordinates Collections. Her work is soft and often sentimental. I love her use of strip journaling, and single photo layouts.

I won't find out until Monday if I make it to the next round, but either way I sure have had a lot of fun playing! I am just finishing up a couple of projects, and expect to have layouts to share this weekend. Have a great night!

What a Week!

2008-02-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

Wow. So glad to say that this week is almost done! My oldest son has been SOOOOO sick. It is so hard as a mom to watch him be miserable and not be able to do a thing for him! He has been hit really hard by the flu, and has been in bed since Thursday of last week. He has lost weight, and is so very weak! Doctor prescribed antibiotics yesterday as he has developed a sinus infection. I really hope we are almost done with this - I miss my boy and his sense of humor - the house is so quiet!! And he NEEDS to get back to school.

Anyway...I have been scrapping, but can't share what I have done yet, since it is for the contest at Coordinates Collections. I am just finishing up my work for this round (really tough!) and it is due tomorrow. Voting starts again on Monday, don't forget to check it out! Once voting begins on Monday, you can check the two categories HERE and HERE. Only those that are registered members before voting begins will be able to vote, but you can certainly check out what I am babbling on about even if you are not a member.

I hope to get a chance to do some other projects this weekend, if things settle down around here! have a wonderful weekend, and a restful holiday!
Hugs, KP

Live Out Loud

2008-02-12T19:10:00.000-08:00

Here is another layout that I finished for the Design Team for Scrappin with Grace. This layout was done with the "Live Out Loud" line by Reminisce. I LOVE LOVE the bright, vibrant colors and the fun and funky feel of this line - I had so much fun with this layout!!

I MADE THE TOP TEN!

2008-02-11T07:49:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it!! I am so excited right now - smile smile smile!! Picture me jumping excitedly around the living room. If you have not been following, I am in a contest at Coordinates Collections and I made it through to the next round. I know I will really have to step it up this week, because those other 9 are GREAT! I am so nervous my stomache hurts. I find out what the next assignment is tonight - if you don't hear from me this week it is because I am locked up with my scrap stuff trying to be creative!

Since the voting is over, I am able to share my layouts for round one - here are my entries:

This one was based on the style of Mahlin, one of the design team on the site - Love her work! Very inspiring - colorful, fun, a little whimsical and bold.

This layout is based on the style of Ali Edwards - Simple and graphic style, lots of photos, minimal "clutter" which was a tough one for me!!

Anyway - I am excited...thanks for stopping by to share my giddiness.

New projects!

2008-02-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

I got some scrapping in yesterday! I completed this layout using the new February kit for Scrapping with Grace (available in the store soon!). This is my first layout for the design team. This kit includes the FLIRT line by Reminisce. All papers and Die Cuts/ Stickers are from the kit, and are Reminisce. I added Prima and Bazzill flowers, Cosmo Cricket Rub ons, SU pearls, Lace and Buttons from my fabric store stash!

I also completed this altered mailbox with products from the Reminisce FLIRT line from Scrappin with Grace. I love making these little mailboxes! I got the tin from the Target $1 spot. Papers and stickers are Reminisce, and I added SU ribbon. I think these make such cute little gift boxes - filled with candy, gift cards, or other small treats...

I hope to get more time to play today, so hopefully I can share more soon!! Have a great day!

My POOR BABY!!

2008-02-09T18:23:00.000-08:00

Oh, I can't tell you how sad I am! My poor Lauren broke her tooth on Thursday!! Of course, she was rough housing with the boys, and they were all being a bit too wild and wound up, and she ended up with this!

I could really just cry!! Of course, it is just a baby tooth, and it is not THAT horrible, but her beautiful smile will never be the same! I took her to the dentist this morning, and they did a little repair. It looks better, but still not great. They are going to recheck it in a couple of weeks to see if the tooth is going to stay healthy, and if it still looks okay, then they will do a little better fix - of course, no one else can even notice it now that they repaired it, but mommy can. Sigh...

On a brighter note - I am scrapping this weekend!! I got my very first kit from Scrappin with Grace to design with. This month we are designing with products from Reminisce. I got a ton of stuff to keep me busy, and will definitely have a few things to share by Monday! (as long as the kids are not killing each other while I try to work!)

Off to get a very tired Lauren to bed and get to work! Hope your weekend is restful and productive!

Happy Tuesday!

2008-02-05T21:42:00.000-08:00

Today was a very very very tired day. Did I mention I am a little tired? Hoping hoping that I am not getting sick - since it seems like everyone I talk to is sick...but I definitely feel ...well, tired. Okay, enough of that. No whining KP!

I am anxiously awaiting the arrival (due any minute now) of my very first kit as design team member for Scrappin' with Grace!! I really hope that it makes it here by tomorrow so that I can spend time on my day off playing! (of course, I have to do my taxes that day, so who knows if I will get time to play...I am hoping I get through it quickly and get a little fun time in! But either way I am super excited for this first assignment! We have a new contest that just started over there -- if you are up for a fun challenge, go check it out HERE.

Voting is underway at Coordinates collections! I am trying hard not to stalk the board to see how it is going -- maybe there is a reason I never entered any contests or challenges in the past - I don't like grey hair much. But I know that I did my best, and I know that there are some WAY WAY talented ladies in this competition.

If you want to see the entries, the links are HERE for the "Mahlin" inspired layouts, and HERE for the Ali Edwards inspired layouts. Good stuff!

I hope to have a few new things to share by the weekend...many projects in the works, not enough hours in the day. I am off now to get some sleep. I am happy to say that I get to go get my hair cut tomorrow -- yippee!! That always makes for SUCH a nice day. Have a great night!

I'M SCRAPPIN WITH THE STARS!!

2008-02-04T08:07:00.000-08:00

And if you want to be able to VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE you need to register TODAY!! Yeah, I know, thanks for the notice...but I did not realize that voters had to be members before voting began. SO go register NOW so you can be part of the fun!
You can link HERE at Coordinates Collections, and click on "register" - the rest is easy - and I promise they won't spam you! Once you are registered, you can log in tomorrow until the 8th to VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE! I hope that you well register and at least check it out. There are some really amazing entries - I hope that mine is in the running! You can check out all of the entries HERE - mine is under username kpaisley1.

The goal of this contest was to submit work based on the scrapping style of 2 stars - in this case, Ali Edwards and one of the design team members on the Coordinates Collections board, Mahlin. This was such a challenge, but I had so much fun and really learned a lot.

Thanks for stopping by - now go register :)

New Layout to share...

2008-02-03T17:43:00.000-08:00

I have been working on layouts for the contest that I am participating in over at www.coordinatescollections.com for the last week. I can't share those yet, but this one is one that I created for the contest and then decided was not quite right. I really love the layout, but I am supposed to be creating a layout based on the style of other artists, and this one was a little too "ME" and not quite right to submit for the contest. Anyway - this photo cracks me up, and I had a lot of fun scrapping it!

I used Bazzill and Stampin Up! cardstock, Autumn Leaves and Stampin' Up! Patterned Papers, Rusty Pickle Chipboard, Stampin' Up stamp, ink and embossing powder, KI Lace cardstock, Petaloo flower, Dymo label maker, Heidi Swapp bling, and LOTS of buttons and ribbon from my stash.

I keep trying to scrap today, but I am feeling very lazy and doing a lot of procrastinating. Sure hope to have more to share soon! Thanks for visiting... Have a great night!

And the WINNER IS....

2008-02-03T12:06:00.001-08:00

Kathy Lang! Congratulations Kathy, you are the winner of the BLOG CANDY offered!! WOO HOO! I hope you enjoy your goodies - I will get these out to you on Monday!

I had Lauren draw a name from the hat, so you can thank her too!

Thanks again to everyone for continuing to visit me here -- I really enjoy sharing my thoughts and my work with you. Please come by again soon :)

I will be sharing the links from the contest I am participating in tomorrow, so that you can go and VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE, so check back in then to get the scoop!

Have a Great Day!!!

Happy Thursday!

2008-01-31T17:50:00.000-08:00

Whew - what a day! Today Surewest came to switch over our TV and internet - a couple minor glitches, and an all day process pretty much, but it is done. I will have a new email addy but got tired of waiting to get it set up, so that is a job for tomorrow! We had Lauren's "reward" dinner for sleeping through the night (and not waking up the momma) for a whole week -- that was a nice reward for momma too! She picked crab, and I decided if we were having crab we needed shrimp and steak as well, a little salad and sliced peaches -- YUMMO!

I have spent what time I could today getting caught up on some scrapping and other projects - still a lot on the long list of crafty things to do, but I made some headway! I start my role TOMORROW as design team member for Scrappin With Grace. Have I mentioned how excited I am about this?? Saturday is our all day Winter Wonderland crop -- I will be around the message boards most of the day - I hope you will come and join me!! If you have not been by before, please check it out - make sure to say hi if you come by - tell em KP sentcha! :)

I finished this layout this week for the final round of the Winter Wonderland contest at Scrappin with Grace as well. The challenge this week was to use Flair Designs patterned papers, and to complete a layout with at least 25% white space. Wow, was it hard for me to do this - really a challenge to try something out of my comfort zone. But I am SOOOO pleased with the way that this turned out. This is among the photos that I found last month that had never been printed -- I just loved this phase with Lauren, expect to see lots of that cute little face for a while!!

I used Flair Designs patterned papers, Bazzill Cardstock, Rub Ons and Stamps are Stampin' Up (and BTW these new rub ons ROCK!), Prima flowers, buttons from my stash, Grungeboard Heart, Crystal elements from Mark Richards, and my DYMO label maker.

I have also been working on the layouts for the Scappin with the Stars contest at Coordinates Collections as well - but I can't share them until the judging starts -- I will be sure to link you to the gallery for the contest when all of the entries are in. The competition already looks stiff, and I am really laboring over my layouts for this one... much MUCH harder than I expected it would be!

Well, I am off to try to get a few more things finished before bed -- have a great night!

Some Scrappy news...

2008-01-26T14:18:00.000-08:00

So if you have been following my blog, you know that my goal for 2008 is to focus on my personal growth as a scrapper, to challenge myself to create my best work and to stretch myself creatively. I am sure working on it! I have been entering contests, completing challenges, and really spending time trying to learn new things and gain insight and inspiration!

I entered the "Scrappin with the Stars" contest over at Coordinates Collections, and to my shock and delight, I made it through the "Dance Off" and am in the top 20!! I am starting work on round one, and am frankly terrified! There are some truly amazing and very talented scrappers in the competition - I hope I am up to the challenge. But I know that all I can do is my very best, and I am just so delighted to have an opportunity to push myself and try something new! I am not allowed to post the layouts for the contest until it is over, but when I post my creations over there I will share a link so you can check out my work, and the rest of the amazing entries - and of course you can go and vote for your favorites! Round one voting starts Feburary 4th, so I will update things then.

I am also growing VERY excited, as I will officially start my role on the Design Team for ScrappinwithGrace on February 1st. And right off the bat we are having an all day CROP on February 2nd!! I hope that you will join us! I will post the details as it gets closer, but let me just say that there are tons of fun things planned! Challenges, games, prizes - it promises to be tons of fun!

In other news around here - I got to go to the urgent care today with my son Ethan, who has a delightful infection in his thumb - a tiny cut that has grown into a nasty mess!! Hopefully antibiotics will end that challenge quickly - EWWW!
Lauren has let me sleep for 3 days in a row, and I am FINALLY starting to feel human again. I resorted to bribery - lol - I promised her a crab dinner if she did not wake me for a whole week. She REALLY likes crab, so she is working for it!! Hope it is enough to break the cycle of sleepless nights and start getting things back to normal around here!
Christian is ...well he's Christian. We are having a good time with his newfound love for Led Zeppelin. I think it is too funny that his favorite band at 12 was also mine. He is learning to play Stairway to Heaven on the guitar, and lives with an ipod attached to his head.
Larry is back to school --one more semester and we will finally be DONE!!

Well, I think that sums it all up for now -- wish me luck in my new endeavors. I'll be back soon with some new layouts and projects to share!

Good Morning!

2008-01-24T07:20:00.000-08:00

See, I knew you guys were out there! I guess it just takes bribing you with goodies to get you to talk to me lol! If you have not done so already, check yesterday's post and leave a comment for a chance to win a prize!

So I finally slept last night. Whew. My insomnia (and my sleepless 4 year old) have been getting the better of me, and by yesterday I was really feeling it and getting a "tad" on the grouchy and whiney side. I don't like me when I am that irritable, so thank goodness sleep has come! I took a muscle relaxant last night, went to bed at 9:30 and never heard my husband come home from school last night or leave for work this morning, slept through the alarm and dragged myself out of bed after 7am. Which means that my son missed his zero period, but it was worth it - obviously I needed the sleep. I have the day off today, and plan to make it a restful one. Maybe I will get some scrapping in too.

I have not done any scrapping this week. I have been working on getting the cards done for my upcoming Stamp a Stack. Since I took off a couple of months from my Stampin' Up! classes, it was a little hard for me to get back into the swing of designing cards for a class - I am so glad they are finally done - designed, prepped and ready to go! I am going to share what I made for the class -- NOTE, if you are a customer and are coming to the Stamp a Stack and prefer to be surprised, QUICK - SHUT YOUR EYES! lol

When I design for a Stamp a Stack, I have to plan cards that are simple enough that we can get them all done int he 4-5 hours we have available (we are making 21 cards - 3 each of 7 designs) and cards that stampers of any skill level can complete -- but they have to be CUTE and be something that everyone can use! I am hoping that my customers like my choices this time - here they are:

This first card was made using the new sets One of a Kind and Boho Backgrounds, Berry Bliss desgner series paper, Purely Pomegranate, Close to Cocoa and Pretty in Pink Cardstock, Purely Pomegranate stitched ribbon, the Key Tag punch, Horizontal Slot punch, Boho Blossoms punch, 1/2" Circle punch and Ticket Corner punch, and sponge daubers.

This card was completed using the new set Pun Fun, and Seeing Spots. I used watercolor crayons, watercolor paper, and cardstock in Taken with Teal, Rose Red, Pumpkin Pie and Old Olive. Ribbon is Pumpkin Pie grosgrain and I used the ne My Way (arrow) punch.

This SUPER simple card uses the new From the Garden background (hostess) stamp, Itty Bitty Backgrounds, and sentiment from One of a Kind. I used Confetti Cream, Bordering Blue, Close to Cocoa and Chocolate Chip inks and cardstock, Chocolate Chip 5/8" grosgrain, brayer and sponge daubers.

This one is made with the new Embrace Life set (my new favorite of course!). I used Ginger Blossom designer series paper, Ruby Red, Groovy Guava, River Rock and shimmery white cardstock, Stazon and watercolor crayons with blender pens, Groovy Guava stitched grosgrain, the Ticket Corner punch and the Word Window Punch, and sponge daubers.

I love these new Felt Flowers!! And this new background stamp too! This card was made using the background stamps Pretty Petals and Paisley, and the new Celebrate Everything set. I used the 5 petal flower punch, NEW felt flowers, and silver brads. Cardstock and ink are Old Olive, Purely Pomegranate and Pumpkin Pie, and ribbon is Old Olive 5/8" grosgrain.

This card uses the new set Big Birthday Candle, Happy Happy Birthday wheel, and Dotted Background. I also used the hostess "prints pack" of prints designer paper. Prints papers used on this one are in Real Red, Bashful Blue, Wild Wasabi and So Saffron. (Cardstock and ink in these colors as well) Ribbon is Bashful Blue grosgrain.

This card was completed using the new (and completely adorable) set A little Birdie, and the flowers from Time Well Spent. I used the print patters papers (for paper piecing) in Pretty in Pink and Apricot Appeal. Cardstock is Certainly Celery, Apricot Appeal, Pretty in Pink, Tempting Turquoise and Whisper White - ink in Basic Black and Regal Rose, stampin write markers in Tempting Turquoise and Regal Rose, small and large oval punch, Turquoise grosgrain and silver cording.

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day!

Blog Candy Anyone??

2008-01-22T20:27:00.000-08:00

Unbelievably, I have received almost 7,000 visits to my little blog. I think this is frankly amazing, and I want to offer a little thank you for stopping by to visit me!! SOOOO I am offering a prize -- just a little box of stamping and scrapping goodies that I hope will make you smile! How can you win?? Just leave me a comment on this thread between now and February 1st. I will randomly select one winner from those leaving comments. You'll have to come back and check to see if you win, so I can send it to you!! Good Luck :) and thanks for stopping by!

All about ME!

2008-01-19T11:35:00.000-08:00

Well, it is isn't it? LOL

In all of my years of scrapping, I have never done a "ME" page. Feels kind of strange, really. So, since I am on a "try new things" roll, here it is. I completed this layout for this week's contest entry at Scrappin with Grace. The challenge was to use the word "NEW" in the layout title, and this is what I came up with. Hope you like it, thanks for looking!

I used Daisy D's and Fancy Pants patterned papers, Rub on's by Luxe designs (these are AWESOME quality rub on's - can't wait to get more!) Petaloo flowers, AC Thickers and Lisa Bearnson chipboard alphabets.

I'm excited!!

2008-01-15T19:52:00.000-08:00

I decided to throw my hat into the ring and apply for a design team position at ScrappinWithGrace and was delighted to find out this morning that I made the team!! I am so excited, as I think that this will be a really great growth opportunity for me - a chance to really focus on my goals, try new ideas and products, and share my work -- I am really looking forward to the challenge!

These are the projects that I submitted for the design team application -- so glad they liked them :)
This layout of my "angel" (we can call her the occasional angel lol) was done using Fancy Pants patterned paper, die cuts, rub ons; Tim Holtz Grungeboard with acrylic paint and SU ink; Stampin' up! ribbon, pearls, hat pin; Bazzill and Prima flowers; Lisa Bearnson chipboard alphabet with SU ink and embossing powder.

My card entry was complete using all Stampin' Up! products - I used the stamp sets A Touch of Nature, French Script and Warm Words. I used watercolor crayons and an aquapainter for watercoloring.

Finally I completed an altered project using a mailbox tin from the Target $1 spot (my favorite place lately!!) -- Papers are Fancy Pants, ribbons and rhinestone brads are Stampin' Up! and flowers are Bazzill and Autumn Leaves. Crystal Elements for flower centers are by Mark Richards.

Again, I am just so thrilled, and even more than ever looking forward to sharing my work with you...thanks for looking!

Too Cool...

2008-01-13T14:22:00.000-08:00

This is a layout I completed of my oldest son Christian. He thinks he is too cool to smile! But even without a smile - I think he is the cutest! (don't let him know I said so -- eeew, mom!)

The patterned paper is KaiserScrapbooks (first time I have used this line - I like it!)
The flowers are Bazzil, Prima and Hero Arts, Buttons are Hero Arts and Stampin' Up!; Letter Brads are Rusty Pickle, Alpha is Grungeboard by Tim Holtz; ink is Stampin' Up!

Bling it on, Baby!

2008-01-12T10:57:00.000-08:00

I completed this layout for a contest at Scrappin with Grace - we are in week 2, and this week the challenge was to create a layout using "bling" - this one was really fun for me! You know I gotta say, I am really enjoying the message board at SWG -- I visit many, and enjoy them all for different reasons, but this one is just homey and personal - everyone there is so friendly and supportive, I find myself visiting often! If you have a chance, you should stop by!

Anyway, here is my contest entry - I wish I could get a better photo that really showed the sparkle - for my bling elements I used Bazzill Bling cardstock, I added glitter to the large heart, I painted and glittered the flowers, added bling flower centers and rhinestone brads.

Pattered paper and chipboard is My Mind's Eye, Cardstock is Bazzill; flowers, glitter, rhinestone brads and ink are Stampin' Up!; bling flower centers are heidi Swapp, ribbon is from the target $1 spot

Update on us and a new layout to share...

2008-01-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

So what's new around here? Well lovely sunny California has been seeing some pretty rough weather! Having lived here all of my life, when people talk about "big storms" it has never meant much to me - but Friday got a little scary. We lost a 30+ foot tree in the back yard, and a good portion of our fence with the winds - There were things flying everywhere, and still today driving around the roads are filled with debris, and the evidence of the storm is everywhere...there are still people with power out as well. I have seen trampolines on roofs, basketball hoops IN cars - It really has made me count my blessings. I am so grateful that I don't live in a place where storms like this (or much worse) are something to worry about all the time!

In other news - can you believe we are sick, AGAIN! What is UP! My daughter (who got the worst of it last time) is sick. I took her to urgent care yesterday, and she has a virus that causes painful ulcerations at the back of the throat - the poor thing is in so much pain! They gave her lidocaine to numb it so that she can swallow and be able to eat and drink. Unfortunately I woke up at 3am today with the ulcers on my throat - guess I will be stealing her meds until I can get to the doctor! The good news is that the doctor said that it is not airborne, and so it spreads with direct contact (kissing, sharing drinks, etc.) only - so it is okay to work and go to school. She is staying home today as she feels pretty rotten, but I can suck it up and work - I hate calling in sick!

Thinks are looking promising on the job search for DH - I hope you are still keeping us in your prayers, we really need them! We hope to have good news soon.

I did finish a new layout this weekend. I am really quite pleased with this one. I have been looking for MONTHS for a "winter" paper in pinks to use for these great photos of Lauren on our snow tip last year. I finally found these and I just LOVE them! I bought several snowflake embellishment options, but most of what I found was just not quite "right" - so the large snowflakes I made myself - I love how they turned out! I used a brass snowflake stencil with translucent embossing paste. For the white snowflakes I added glitter, and the blue I added pearlex powder and glitter. The exacto work was a little time intensive, but I love how delicate and shimmery they are!!

The supplies used here are:
Patterned Paper: Fancy Pants Designs - Holly Jolly line
Cardstock: Bazzill
Sugar Coated chipboard alphabet - Doodlebug Designs
Small snowflakes: EK success; Large snowflakes - Lasting impressions stencil, Dreamweaver Embossing paste, pearlex powder and Stampin' Up! glitter
Rhinestone brads: Stampin Up!
Ric- Rac: found at target $1 spot!

Following inspiration, or insight?

2008-01-03T18:50:00.000-08:00

So every time I sit down to create, I learn something - and even when projects turn out differently than I had planned, I get something out of it. I completed this layout today to participate in a contest at www.scrappinwithgrace.com
The challenge was to complete a one page layout with at least 5 photos reflecting on 2007. I printed out the photos last night, and had a layout plan in my head, but have been sick, and was just too tired to scrap, so I went to bed. I could not breathe this morning, and got up at 5:30 am and decided to start scrapping. At some time during the night, the contents of my scrap room must have shifted, and a bag of items I have not seen in ages (and frankly forgot existed) somehow ended up on the floor. The bag included a ruler and tape measure, and a grid stamp. I figured that it must be meant for me to use these items, and decided to use them as inspiration for my page layout. Now, I am really not sure if I like this page, and it is definitely far from my "style". Throughout the day ( and yes I struggled with this nearly all day) I thought about turning back and starting over, and doing something that felt more comfortable and safe - you know, floral or whimsical...but I stuck with it, and I have decided that even though it will never be a favorite page, it is good for me to try new things, and step outside my comfort zone. And I am sharing it with you because someone may find something they like and are inspired by.

Other things I learned - time to clean the scrap room and get organized so things don't fall on the floor and "inspire" me unnecessarily! lol

The patterned paper, ruler, tape measure and grid stamp are Club Scrap; cardstock and ink are Stampin Up!; ghost letters are Heidi Swapp; other supplies used: acrylic paint, staples, washers, drywall tape, hinges.

Oh No! It happened...

2007-12-31T13:29:00.000-08:00

My family has been sick, one after the other for almost 2 weeks. Through it all, I have fought it off. I pride myself on "never" getting sick (don't have time for it!). But, sadly here I am - you guessed it - SICK! This is my second crud in two months, so I guess that NEVER thing is out the window. Bleh. I woke up at 2am coughing and miserable - sore throat, earache. Waaah. And of course, it is just in time to return to work, after 10 days off. Hopefully I recover more quickly than the rest of my clan, since I don't have any more time off!

I did get a layout done yesterday, so I will share that with you before I crawl back to bed. I got a sewing machine a few weeks ago, and decided to try it out on this page. Funny, I never did learn how to sew. I know many people don't, but since my mom was a professional seamstress, you would think I might have picked it up! But I really have no affinity for it - in fact, I find it really quite challenging! I must not have this gene - like the cooking gene - it must skip a generation! But I tried, and got it done without TOO much swearing. This layout is of my daughter's first day of "big girl" preschool - she went from a 2 day tiny tot program to a full day preschool.

I took pics of the pages individually, since I think they show up better - I am having a hard time getting good pics of layouts - I just don't seem to have enough light! Here is page one...

And page 2...
The patterned paper in this layout is Tinkering Ink and Stampin' Up!; Cardstock is Stampin' Up! and Bazzill; Stamp set and ink is Stampin' Up!; Glitter alphabet stickers - K and Company; Foam alphabet - American Crafts; Ribbon - Stampin' Up!; Other - buttons from my stash.

I am off to take some Nyquil and crawl into bed - I doubt I will feel up to scrapping tonight, but hope to have something to share soon. You know the worst part of getting sick TODAY? It is New year's Eve - and although were were hanging out at home anyway, I bought steak for dinner...mmm steak. I have not had a steak for at least 6 months, and was really looking forward to to Steak, Baked Potato, Ceasar Salad...and my throat hurts and I don't feel like cooking. And our friends invited us to dinner tomorrow and I have to flake... I sure do hop to feel better in the morning!

Happy New Year to all of you - stay healthy, and be safe!!

Ack! Only three days left!

2007-12-30T10:26:00.000-08:00

I am not ready to go back to work! I have had such a nice, relaxing vacation - spent most of my time in sweats or PJs, spent at least a couple hours scrapping almost every day, had the kids home being lazy with me...it has been just lovely and I hate that the busy-ness is about to begin again! I hope to make the most of my last couple of days - scrapping, napping - you know, the things I love most!!

I finished another layout last night. Honestly, I am not sure about this one. I have had this layout designed in my head for months - but it looked so much better in my head! (LOL) I like it, but feel like it needs "something" - yet adding anything takes away from the photo...so for now, it is done... I love these papers, and this photo really makes me smile...

The patterned papers are DaisyD's, Paper Loft and Creative Imaginations; Cardstock and journaling pens and glitter are SU!; Rub On is Scenic Route, Ribbon is Basic Grey.

Thanks for stopping by!

Time Well Spent...

2007-12-29T09:05:00.000-08:00

See --not working really DOES give me time to be creative. I really need to win that Lotto - I love being able to create something every day!

I finished this layout last night - decided to dust off some stamps and my watercolors for this one. I used the new stamp set that Stampin Up! sent as a gift in December - it is called Time Well Spent, and was the perfect choice for this layout, not only because it is about spending time with friends, but also because the flowers work so nicely with the pattern on my shirt! :)

This photo is of me and my buddy Charissa on my birthday (when we went to So You Think You Can Dance!) Go ahead, you can say it - we ARE hot - LOL. We had so much fun, and I am so glad to have finished a fun layout of me and my FRIEND!

All Supplies are Stampin' Up! except the die cut turquoise cardstock by Bazzill.

Good Morning!

2007-12-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday turned out to be a pretty scrappy day! I actually had time to complete 2 layouts - and with 3 kids home I think that is quite an accomplishment! The kids are still moving a little slow recovering from their Christmas Cooties.

I am still trying to work through my Disney photos... I have so many photos from that trip, and really would like to have the accomplishment of a complete album! This first Layout is of my oldest son, Christian. Sadly Christian has reached that age where smiling for the camera is SOOO not cool. And since I refuse to scrap 12 year old attitude photos, I am finding that I have less and less of him to scrap! I keep trying to explain to my children that that I only plan to scrap happy memories of pleasant, obedient children, so that if they want to be in the books, they need to cooperate! I guess I need to keep working on that. Anyway, this photo is one in which I caught a couple of smiles from the boy... and I am so glad to be able to have SOMETHING to scrap where he does not have his eyes rolled at me lol. Gotta love pre-teens! It's a good thing that I adore him so.

All papers, die cuts, rub on and transparancy overlay are My Mind's Eye; Alphabet stickers are American Crafts Thickers, and Chipboard is Lisa Bearnson; Ink and Ribbon are Stampin' Up!

The design for the next layout is one that I loved from Creating Keepsakes Hall of Fame created by Jamie Harper. I love finding layout ideas that incorporate multiple photos, and as soon as I saw this one I new that I HAD to use it for these photos of the kids playing in the water park area in California Adventure.

Cardstock and Ink is Stampin' Up!; Patterned Paper is Daisybucket Designs; Gems are EK success, Chipboard is Basic Grey, Rub ons are K & Company.

I am hoping for more scrap time over the next few days, so I will be back soon!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2007-12-26T08:34:00.001-08:00

I hope you all have had a peaceful and joyful holiday, and had an opportunity to spend time with those you love! I know you will forgive me for not posting for so long -- this has been a crazy month. I can honestly say that I am DELIGHTED that the big day is behind us, and we can all enjoy the rest of the season at a slower pace!

What's new around here? Well, sadly my family has been sick. Lauren especially - she came down with a fever and cough on Wednesday night last week, and is still fighting with it. Fever is finally gone, and a Sunday trip to urgent care revealed ear infection in both ears (including a possible perforation in her left ear drum - trust me, it is not a relaxing day when you wake to find your child bleeding from the ear!) She has also had to be on breathing medication --this seems to be helping a lot and she is getting back to her busy self. The other kids and DH have had a milder version - so far I am okay, sure to get sick just in time to return to work! But despite the germs and such, we managed to have a very nice Christmas! Perhaps the lower energy level is what made things more peaceful!

My children are very well loved (ok - spoiled) and were very happy children on Christmas morning! I am hoping that this keeps them busy and quiet the rest of the week, so that I can enjoy my scrappy new toys and do some creating!

In other news, my husband went for another job interview last week, and has been asked back for second interviews for both positions he has applied for. Our fingers are still crossed - hope yours are too! I am so hopeful that our new year starts out with this new journey and new opportunities that will bring us to a brighter future together!

Well, I guess that is all for now... I hope that you have a wonderful day!

Wow...I passed 6000!

2007-12-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

Is that possible? I have had over 6000 visits to my blog since I started in June? Wow. I guess that must mean that people ARE in fact reading and looking - thanks for joining me! Would love to hear your opinions, what you like or don't. What you want to see more of!

This week has been so crazy, I have not had time to share anything...but I am sure you all understand, since you are living in December right along with me! I can't wait for next week - I have 10 days off, just hanging out with the kids, having family time, playing with new toys, hopefully a little scrapping for me!

Yesterday Lauren had her first Hula performance - they did a Holiday Hula, and danced to Christmas music (both traditional and Hawaiian) -- it was a great show, and my little darling is a star! I was so surprised at how well she did, especially since I expected she would refuse to go on stage once we got there, or just stand there in fear (since this is what I would have done lol). She did spend a good deal of time on stage watching the band (lol) but she really did great, I was so very proud! Did not get great photos as the lighting was horrible, but I will try to play with pics to share them soon.

I am off to do a little last minute shopping this morning before work. Hope you all have a great day!

Filled with Wonder

2007-12-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

I completed this page last night, and I am so delighted to share it with you. These are my FAVORITE photos of my daughter from our trip to Disneyland in July. This was her first trip to Disneyland, and she was SOOOO excited. We entered the park on our first day there as the parade was passing by Main Street. She was just filled with excitement and awe, and it was such a wonderful moment to get to watch her experience this for the first time. I LOVED being able to capture this on film, and am so thrilled with how this layout captures her experience.

Patterned papers are Fancy Pants and Daisy D's, Die cut is Fancy Pants, Hat pin and inks are Stampin' Up! Chipboard is Lisa Bearson, I also used Memory Makers Glitter Glaze, which is hard to see in the photo.

Thanks for stopping by! :)

Scrapbooking as Therapy..

2007-12-09T08:29:00.001-08:00

I have always said that scrapping is my "therapy"...that is keeps me sane. It relaxes me, and gives me time to decompress, and leave the worries of daily life behind for a little while. Sometimes it offers even more than this.

Over the past few weeks, we have really been struggling with my daughter, and with behavior challenges. There have been moments that I have been ready to pull my hair out, and I may have been willing to give her to anyone that asked. Thankfully (knock on wood) we seem to have faired the worst of it, and for the last few days she has been delightful - she just had to test the waters and see how far she could push me I guess. We also think that she may have sleep apnea, which would really explain a lot!

During the time that she was behaving like a holy terror, and I was crying out of frustration trying to regain control of my household, I chose to scrap. I found that choosing to work with photos of her during a fun and happy time really helped me to focus on how wonderful and loving she really is. I adore this child, and when she is not possessed by aliens, she is truly a delight. I am so thankful that I have this tool available to me so that I am able to step away from the chaos for a period of time, and remind myself why I am a mom, and why making it through the really challenging times is so worth it.

I created this layout of my BEAUTIFUL, fun, silly, and FIESTY little girl:

Patterned papers and Rub Ons are My Mind's Eye; Cardstock is Bazill; Ghost Letters Heidi Swapp; Alphabet American Crafts Thickers; Stamps Autumn Leaves; Ink Stampin' Up.

The photos are from August, 2006. Isn't she just the cutest! I am keeping her!

What a Weekend!!

2007-12-02T14:54:00.000-08:00

It has been a bit rough, that is for sure. I have so many projects that I am in the middle of, and am feeling somewhat overwhelmed (what else is new!) Unfortunately a rather large wrench was thrown in my plans, and we experienced the loss of my computer yesterday. I had most of my important things backed up, so it is not as great of a tragedy as it could have been, but still - we can't afford to replace it, and I can't possibly live without it. It is a bit of an emotional loss as well, as it is the last thing that my father gave to us before he passed away - we have babied it and tried to keep it alive as long as possible, but it is beyond repair this time. I think the thing that will be hardest to recover the loss of on that computer is my FONTS! I have spent years collecting a huge variety of fonts, and now I have to start over!

I am borrowing my mom's laptop, and it will do the job until we figure out a new plan (thanks mom!) but getting used to different software etc. is a challenge for me!

I have not made much progress on my weekend projects either. We did get the tree decorated this morning - I let the kids do most of it (and tried hard not to re-do it lol) and they had a great time! I had hoped to spend time scrapping and participating in the virtual crop this weekend at Scrappin With Grace but did not get a lot done there either. I finished one layout, which under the circumstances feels like a big accomplishment to me! Here is what I got done:

I also took my daughter to Fairy Tale Town yesterday for a princess birthday party - they dressed up, and they got to visit with SANTA! Here she is:

I also got a chance to play with my camera and my new lens, so I had a lot of fun! I am really trying hard to learn to take better photos! I wish some of the great shots I got were of MY child, but I did manage to get what I think are some great shots - here are two of Lauren's beautiful princess friends:

Well, I guess that is it for today. I have an extra busy week - but hopefully I will be able to check in again soon! I am off to get dinner started so we can get another tree decorated, I can finish up some Christmas cards and hopefully get another layout done before bed! Have a great day!!

Crossing our fingers and toes...

2007-11-28T05:14:00.001-08:00

If you could cross yours as well, that would be great! Anyone willing to send a little good luck vibe our way, send it now! My husband has a job interview today! The market is really tough at the moment, but we are VERY hopeful that they will choose him. This is his first interview since completing his certification program, and it would just be so good for him to get a job in his "chosen" field. It would also be great for our family, as it has a much higher (long term) earning potential and a place for him to grow. I hope, I hope, I hope...

What else is happening around here? Well, not a lot of sleeping, that is for sure. Monday night my daughter woke me up at 2 am, and I was not able to go back to sleep, so I drug my butt around in a daze all day yesterday. Last night she slept, but I tossed around, finally waking at 4am, and decided to get up at 5am, since I wasn't really resting anyway. I have a long list of things on my to do list this week, so I guess I will get a jump on them...

Hope you all have a great day - and don't forget to cross your toes!
KP

Princess Layout

2007-11-25T16:13:00.001-08:00

Okay, so this page layout turned out NOTHING like I had envisioned in my head. Frankly, it really frustrates me, but I have decided to let it go, and be satisfied with what it is. I have decided to do a mini book with these photos, since I think Lauren would really like it, and I really like the pics!

Patterned Paper -Fancy Pants
Rhinestone words - Me and My Big Ideas
Rhinestone crowns - Heidi Swapp
Some flowers are Petaloo, but the giant flower and flower ribbon source is unknown.
Stamps - making Memories
Ink Stampin' Up!
I also used a scrap of the fabric from her dress behind the photo.

I did include a page two, just because I wanted to include the photos in her scrapbook, but obviously no design involved.

WhooooHooootieeWhooooo!

2007-11-25T11:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, I had the VERY BESTEST time last night EVAH!

My dear friend Charissa and I went out on the town - a birthday celebration, and all around great time. We went for dinner - Thai, my favorite (YUMMY!) and then we went to see SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE!! Oh my heck was it ever good. I admit, I am a reality TV junkie, and I know most (or many) people probably think this is on the cheesy side, but trust me, this was entertainment at it's best!

We had amazing seats! I really can not believe how fantastic these performers are, and how wonderfully they danced for over 2 hours. My voice is gone from screaming so much! If you are a fan of the show, I really recommend trying to catch the tour! I already can't wait for next season!

The best part last night - well funniest anyway, was when local boy Dominic stripped down to his undies and then mooned the audience as he exited the stage - he was such a ham all night, but I laughed so hard at this I nearly fell out of my chair!

I am so grateful that I got such a fun opportunity! They really CAN dance!

Thanksgiving wishes and a new Layout to share

2007-11-23T15:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all! I know, it is actually the day after Thanksgiving, but I did not get a chance to wish it sooner. Unfortunately I came down with a NASTY bug on Wednesday, and slept through most of the day -- so needless to say I am a little behind! I felt better yesterday -- enough to enjoy a day with the family, but still moving slower than usual. Oh well - that is what holidays are for, right!

I had a lovely, relaxing Thanksgiving dinner with my family - we did it here, but everyone else cooked - how great is that! My mom wanted pics taken with all of the grandkids for her Christmas cards, so while they were here, we went across the street to the park, and I tried to get some --HA HA HA! I swear, trying to get 5 kids and my silly mother all looking cute at the same time is simply not a possibility. Sweet little Lilly, my niece, did NOT want to play! Here is what we ended up with - not horrible I guess.

I hope you had a lovely and relaxing day as well!

The kids let me have a little scrap time this morning, and I got a layout finished...

This is of my boys at our Disneyland trip (I am really trying to finish scrapping this trip!) - Getting Goofy --it was really cute - Max stole Ethan's "Goofy" hat, and then played keep away while Ethan tried to get it back - they were so playful and silly, and the boys were just cracking up!

(You can always click for a larger image)

Patterned paper and Die Cut letters - Paper Loft; Solid Cardstock - Bazill and Stampin' Up!; Big Brads - Hot off the Press; Rub Ons - Making Memories.

I am hoping to get in a few more hours over the long weekend! Hope you get to do something you love this weekend as well.

Hugs, KP

A Cinderella Story

2007-11-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

I finished this layout last night. I really enjoyed playing with the colors and textures in this paper, and thought the softness of it with the gorgeous flourishes and birds made it very "fairytale" like. So what better to use it for than a visit with royalty. These photos are from our Disney trip in July - Lauren LOVED meeting the "real" princesses and getting photos and autographs with ALL of them. Cinderella was a favorite of course...

Patterned Paper, Die Cuts, Letters and Rub Ons are Basic Grey (Periphery); Ink and ribbon are Stampin' Up!

Ethan's New Smile :)

2007-11-16T18:04:00.000-08:00

My cutie pie Ethan got his braces off yesterday! He was so excited. And honestly so am I - keeping teeth clean with braces is a lot of extra work for a kid (and for a mom if you want them to actually get clean!) He still has baby teeth, so we may have to do more work in a few years, but they sure are a huge improvement so far!

Here he is before and after - now isn't that a great smile!

Two in one day...

2007-11-15T19:52:00.001-08:00

And I am feeling pretty great! I get such a sense of accomplishment when I finish a page layout, and to finish two in a day feels awesome. Today the kids were so cooperative, my husband had the day off and helped keep things under control, and yes - I scrapped the day away (well, with only a few minor interruptions anyway). It was the most relaxed day off that I have had in a VERY long time, and I am thankful for it.

I finished this layout of the boys on our Hawaii trip last summer. We were at the Halona Blowhole on Oahu South Shore - quite lovely!

Patterned paper, Die cuts and Flowers - My Mind's Eye; Solid Cardstock and buttons- Stampin' Up!; Journaling - Signo white gel pen.

I am on a roll, almost hate to clean up - but at some point I gotta get the kids to bed. Hope your day was as lovely as mine!

"Miss You" Layout

2007-11-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

I completed this layout today. This one took me a few days - both because I ruined the paper once, and because the subject matter was a little emotional for me.

I decided that since I am trying to stretch myself creatively, that the best way to do that was to really challenge myself. And since most of my layouts are of happy beautiful children playing, this was indeed a challenge. But one that has been in my head for quite a while, and since I am scrapping for ME, this made the most sense to start with. I caught myself crying quite a bit over the past few days as I worked through this, but I am really happy with the results.

Patterned Paper, Die Cuts and Stickers - Cosmo Cricket; Chipboard letters - Heidi Swapp; Chipboard Flourishes - Deluxe Designs; Ink - Stampin' Up!; Journaling font - Anke Calligraphic

Journaling Reads:
The Truth is, I am all right.
Sometimes we lose the people that we love,
And it is difficult and painful,
But we move forward, and it is okay.
I am okay.

But that does not mean that I don't miss you.

When one of the kids laughs or smiles, and the expression
Reminds me of you...That is when I miss you.

When I think of something funny, and I know that it
Would make you laugh...That is when I miss you.

When I think about how truly amazing my children are,
And I think how proud of them you would be, and I wish that
I could share them with you...That is when I miss you.

When my computer is having trouble, and I NEED you here to
Help me figure it out...That is when I miss you.

When your beautiful granddaughter, who never had the chance
To meet you, but so very clearly KNOWS you, starts crying
Because she "misses her grandpa"...That is when I miss you.

When I am walking in a store, or at work, or around the neighborhood
And I see someone with a moustache like yours,
Or hear someone with a laugh like yours,
Or catch the scent of someone with a scent like yours,
That is when I miss you.

Every Day. That is when I...
(MISS YOU)

Shopping...again :)

2007-11-14T21:13:00.000-08:00

So, if you remember, the first part of my "creative goal" for myself, was to buy what I like. It turns out that this part of the goal is really not going to be any trouble at all! Since I just bought all I could carry at expo over the weekend, you would think that I was good for a while, yes? No.

Yesterday I was working on (and almost finished with) a layout (yay Kristine!) when I blobbed brown ink all over my journaling. Well, of course I had to start over, and of course I only had one sheet of the paper that I was using, so of course, I had to shop. I guess it really HAS been a while since I have shopped for scrapbooking supplies, since I just discovered yesterday that the store I usually go to in such scrap emergencies is gone. And they were not just closed, there was an entirely different business up and running. Imagine my surprise when I pulled up to the soccer store!!

So I had to head across town (like to the other side of Elk Grove) this morning to a NEW store. I say new, but they have been in business at least a year, I have just never been there. Probably never should have gone in there. I just needed one sheet of paper, but somehow my basket filled up...crazy! I did have a coupon, so I don't feel TOO bad. AND I got home and there is a birthday check in the mail, so I guess is was fate! And just in case my husband ever decides to read my blog --It really wasn't bad at all, honey! (LOL)

Off to finish the page I messed up! Have a great night!

Expo Photo

2007-11-12T08:16:00.001-08:00

So, at a table with six scrapbookers, all six of us forgot to bring a camera (duh!). One of the sweet ladies helping out at the crop was kind enough to take a photo of us and email it to me. Here we are!

From left to right: Charissa, Michelle, Me, Sonda, Christina, Jenn.

Scrapbook Expo

2007-11-11T13:21:00.000-08:00

Are you having a great weekend? I am. I had the opportunity to go yesterday to Scrapbook Expo, and had such a nice day! I spent the day with my dear and fabulous friend Charissa, which always makes for a nice day. I had an opportunity to see friends I don't see nearly often enough - Jenn, Christina and Tonja - and thoroughly enjoyed their company. And I got to shop - which was amazing - I have limited myself so much with shopping that just being surrounded by new and fabulous products made me giddy - At one point I literally broke into a sweat with the excitement of it along with the anxiety of trying to decide which of the MILLIONS of things I wanted that I could possibly narrow it down to. I picked up some great things, and am very hopeful that they will actually get used - soon! And got a nice list going for all of the things I want when I can budget for them...boy are there ever some amazing new products available!

I took two classes. The Rusty Pickle class was fast paced and really fun, and the layout is beautiful -- I need to find some photos to compliment it, and then I will share -- we used Burlap on the page - a new element for page design for me, and a VERY messy (but cute) choice. I also took an S.E.I class that was sadly not as wonderful. I had fun, and shared the class with Jenn and Christina, so I enjoyed laughing with them, but the page is simply ugly, and I am doubtful I can salvage enough to even keep the page - just a crazy, busy, loud design - not at all my style. But I learned a little, I guess. I won a delightful "booby" prize - seriously I can't imagine where they got this - left in a warehouse since 1984 maybe...it is a iron on velvet page element that includes igloos and polar bears - truly hideous. I couldn't give it away! IF anyone out there has a love for the obnoxious and enjoys winter cartoon scenes on their pages, let me know and it is yours! LOL

The crop was a lot of fun - heck, just an opportunity to be out with the girls and surrounded by paper is a truly exceptional thing. And I have some truly talented friends - the layouts they made were just lovely. I got one layout finished, and started a second. I was a little off my game...it has been so long it may take a while for my creativity to start flowing freely I suppose, but I am happy with the layout I finished, and even more happy that I got a layout DONE.

Here is what I worked on:

These are photos taken of Lauren last month at the pumpkin patch. I used the following to create this layout:
Stamps: Fabulous Flowers, True Friend
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Really Rust
Patterned Paper: Apple Cider
Inks: Chocolate Chip and Really Rust Craft
Accessories: Chipboard - Blossoms and Basics and Lots of Letters, Build a Brad, Chocolate Satin ribbon, sponge dauber

Hope you had a great day as well! KP

Thoughts on my CREATIVE CRISIS...

2007-11-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I have been doing a lot of thinking lately. Serious thinking about where I am in my life "creatively". This might sound like a silly thing to be thinking about, but if you know me at all, you know that my NEED to express myself creatively is one of the things that really drives my life and defines who I am. Without it, I am not me. And frankly, I am not happy with the place I am creatively. It has been gnawing at me for a while, and really hit home recently. I think I finally got a handle on it, and got to the heart of what is bothering me this week when I met my dear friend Nic for coffee. We really had a good chat, and it really got me thinking. (Thanks for listening Nic).

If you know me, you know that scrapbooking is my passion. Creating an artistic representation of the memories that are important to me - I NEED to do this. And yet I have found that in the last year, I have done virtually NO scrapbooking. I think about it, I want to do it, but I dont get to it. I am deeply saddened by this, and by the time that has been lost while I have been too busy to do what is really important to me. I am really busy, and this is not likely to change soon. And what creative time I have available to me, I spend planning workshops and preparing for classes, which brings me pleasure,, but keeps me from my TRUE love.

I love stamping - really I do. But I started stamping to supplement my scrapbooking - to add a little more to my pages. And somehow over the past few years, it has taken over. I love Stampin' Up, and think the products are fantastic, but being a demonstrator has put me in a place that makes me feel that all of my available "free money" should go to SU products, and this keeps me from truly expressing myself creatively - if I were true to my creativity, I would just buy what I liked, regardless of how it would affect my "business". I am not really sure how or why I have allowed "business" to affect my art, but it really has. I love card making - LOVE it. I love teaching classes, sharing what I love with others, and especially inspiring people to create. But the time that I spend thinking of class projects, preparing for classes, etc. keeps me from being able to really create for me, and I am feeling stifled, stuck, and I NEED to break out of this place and move my focus from "business" to creativity - and really focus on MY memories, MY scrapbook pages.

About 3 years ago I set a goal for myself that I wanted to be published before I was 40. Guess what. I am a week away from 39, and have progressed nowhere in those three years. I have not grown in my art. I have not produced the kind of amazing pages that I KNOW in my heart live inside my head - in fact I have produced relatively few pages at all! This is a goal that I want to accomplish - maybe not by 40 (since I waited so long) but someday. If I don't work, and don't try, it can't happen.

I want to work on a design team. I want my art to be an inspiration to others. But if it stays here in my head, it can't. And I can't enjoy it, and my children can't cherish it. I have to scrap it.

So what does this mean? Where is my rambling caffeine induced monologue taking us? I am not entirely sure. But I know that I have reached a point of change, and the direction that I go from here will define my creative future. I know that I need to step back from my "business" and not allow it to direct my creativity. I need to not have all of my creative time be spent on cards, workshops and classes - it is not enough for me. And the change needs to happen now, while I am motivated, inspired and driven.

My goals for NOW:
1. Buy what I like, and USE IT. Whether or not I can sell it or demonstrate it will NOT be what directs my art.
2. At least 50% of my creative time is for ME, and will be spent scrapbooking for me (the rest can be for classes, gift making, card making etc. )
3. Learn, grow and progress with my art - get out of the rut, think creatively, and do what I like, not what will sell.
4. Build confidence so that I will submit work for design teams, contests etc., and then SEND IT.
5. Learn how to say no - my time is important.

And why did I share all of this with you? Because if I write it down, and I put it out there, then I am accountable for it. I know that there are a few of you out there that will push me to meet my goals, and I need to be pushed. I need to be reminded of what art means to me. This is important to me. I will do this.

Another photo to share...

2007-11-06T16:59:00.000-08:00

No, it's not stamping...not yet. I am DEFINITELY getting some scrapbooking done this weekend, though - so next week will have plenty of stuff to share - really! I am going to Scrapbook Expo this weekend, and I am so excited. I am taking two classes, and can't tell you how thrilled I am to get to be the student for a change. I am doing a Rusty Pickle class (i LOVE Rusty Pickle) and a technique class by SEI. Then I am cropping the night away. I need to find some time this week to put together some stuff so that I go prepared and get some pages done! Hopefully I will finish some pages that are cute enough to show off!

I did want to share this cute pic of my youngest. You know, she looks so sweet in photos. It is so deceiving...she is such a handful! (okay, more like two hands full). But I just adore her anyway... We are out the door to Hula class. Have a great night!

Updates...

2007-11-04T07:31:00.001-08:00

Wow. Can you believe it has been a whole month since I have been able to post. Obviously I can't start every post with an apology, but that seems like the way it is working right now. Not sure why life has gotten away from me - things just seem to get busier every day!! But in November and December I am taking a break from SU workshops and classes, so that I can focus more on some of the projects I want to do around here. Hopefully that will translate into more things to share with you!

I HAVE been stamping, but mostly for workshops and gifts, and did not take photos! I enjoyed making halloween treat bags for my daughter's preschool. This is what I came up with this year:
I used the Batty For You set, Batty wheel, Arachnophobia wheel, Creepy Crawly paper, Pumpkin and Black paper and ribbon, Circle, Scallop and Key Tag punches. I used 4 x 8 paper bags, and created front and back panels. They were pretty quick and easy, I like the way they turned out, and the kids enjoyed them.

My kids had a great time on Halloween this year! We went to a local church Harvest Festival - the kids got a TON of candy! We enjoyed spending time with our friends the Arch family too! Here are my cuties:

Lauren was Princess Aurora (Sleeping Beauty). She was so lovely. She has been wearing the costume daily since the week before Halloween - she LOVES to dress up! Isn't she just the cutest EVER! (yes, I am biased).

My boys (Christian and Ethan) were Mario and Luigi. They had so much fun, and enjoyed the attention of being "recognized" by the gaming public.

Here are the photos with their friends Kean and Miriam...

In other news... Hmm, what else can I share?? My son Christian's soccer team will be in the Championship playoffs this weekend - even though the team lost every game of the season - go figure. They dominated at the tournament - came through when it counted I guess. He is excited. He also had his first Band Performance last week - he is LOVING band!

The other kids are busy with activities, and keeping me busy daily! Ethan is off track, so I am trying hard to keep him occupied. He learned how to Pogo stick this month, and can easily pogo 1000 times in a row! And Lauren is LOVING her new Smart Cycle - wow is that a great invention!

Me? I am focused on my weight loss and "life changes" and doing really well. I am quite proud of myself. I have lost 13 pounds so far, and still motivated.

I promise that next time I update, it will be with stamping to share!

Stamp a Stack cards...

2007-10-03T19:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know - it has been FOREVER since I have shared something new, and I apologize. All of my "FREE" time has been taken over by my children's activities, and every spare moment I can squeak in to stamp has been spent getting ready for my Stamp a Stack this weekend. I love doing Stamp a Stacks, and they really do force me to get creative and use my stuff! AND I get to spend time with people I like doing my favorite thing! I am really looking forward to this weekend - we are making a variety of Thank You and Friendship cards. And since I have not done anything else creative this week, I thought I could at least share these with you. I really strive to create cards for these events that are simple to create, but really interesting - visually rich and appealing. Here are the cards for this class...If you are a customer and are coming to this event and want to be surprised - QUICK - Shut your eyes! (lol)

This first card is made with Artfully Asian and the Weathered background. I used Watercolor Crayons to color the focal image, and sponging for detail. I really do love the Tafetta ribbon, and this color (Bashful Blue) is just so pretty. Cardstock Colors are Close to Cocoa, Sage Shadow, Blush Blossom, Bashful Blue and Whisper White.

This card is very simple to create, but I really love the color combination, and I personally think ANYTHING made with Baroque Motifs is just gaaaawgous! The colors here are Bravo Burgundy, Always Artichoke and So Saffron. I used craft ink to stamp the focal image, and sponge daubers to apply ink at the edges for a richer look.

Okay, I may have mentioned that Fabulous Flowers has climbed into my FAVORITES - I seriously LOVE this big flower! I did have a hard time coming up with "simple" for this set. But I am really pleased with how this came out. I used Purely Pomegranate and Soft Sky ink and cardstock, basic stamping and some cutting. (with just a touch of glitter) I love these colors together! I do have some customers who DON'T love cutting (imagine that) and 3 layers per card might do them in, so I offered an alternate for those who preferred.

This is the alternate card. This color combo is much cuter in real life - I used Certainly Celery, Taken with Teal and Rose Red ink and Cardstock, with the In the Spotlight hostess set.

I really like this card. I CASEd this one about a year ago for my own use, and unfortunately did not record where I got the design idea from, and can not find it again! So if you are the original designer - holler so credit can be given. Anyway, I stumbled upon the card while planning and thought it was just right for this class. I used the Linen and French Flair background stamps, Carte Postale, and Sincere Salutations, and circle and square punches. Colors are Brocade Blue, Night of Navy and Very Vanilla. I used the White Signo Gel Pen to accent the swirls and add dimension.

And of course I needed a MANLY thank you...I love these western sets! So much fun to stamp with. For this card I used Bronc Buster, Wanted, Sanded (my new favorite background) and Amazing to Zany. I used a snip of the Outlaw Designer Series Paper, and a Pewter Jumbo Eyelet set with the Crop a Dile and tied with Hemp. I also distressed the edges with the cutting tool, and sponged. Colors are Close to Cocoa, Really Rust, Chocolate Chip and Kraft. Focal image was stamped with Craft ink.

And finally, this card made using True Friend - I SOOOOOO love this set. It just makes me smile every time I use it! SURE do hope it makes it to the next catalog (hoping hoping hoping). For this one the colors are River Rock, Really Rust, Groovy Guava, Close to Cocoa and Very Vanilla. I used Apple Cider designer paper (fab!) and Chocolate Satin ribbon (yum!). I also got a chance to share my scallop punch ... LOVE it!

Whew. That is all of them. I better get back to cutting...thanks for stopping by and have an awsome day!

Emerging Fall Colors

2007-09-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, I love this technique! I have been wanting to try it for several days, and finally found a little time yesterday to play. I love fall colors, and love the way this flower turned out in these shades. You can find the tutorial for this technique, called "Emerging Color" here.

I followed the tutorial above, however with a slight modification for this card. Before stamping the colored images, I used the brayer to add More Mustard ink to the Whisper White cardstock, so that my focal image flower would have color as well. This stamp set, Fabulous Flowers (should I say it is my favorite???), is perfect for this technique.

The ingredients for this card:
Stamps: Fabulous Flowers, All Holidays
Cardstock: Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Ruby Red, Really Rust, More Mustard
Ink: More Mustartd, Ruby Red, Really Rust, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive (classic and craft), Versamark
Ribbon: Chocolate Chip Taffeta
Accessories: Clear embossing powder, Brayer, Heat Tool, Ticket Corner punch, Rhinestone brads, Dimensional Adhesive, Sponge Dauber

Tumbled Tile Coasters

2007-09-16T18:12:00.001-07:00

One of my coworkers has been asking me to put together a tile coaster class for her and a group of her friends. I love making tile coasters, and have finally found some time to figure this out for her. I spent time this weekend making up some samples. Unfortunately, all of the stamp sets that I own that work best for tile coasters are retired sets --but rather than buy several new sets, I have decided just to use these - they are some of my favorites, and really work beautifully for this project! You can click on images for a larger view.

There are a variety of methods to making tumbled tile coasters, and everyone has their favorite way to do these. You can find tutorials on Splitcoaststampers.com for alternative ways to do these. I personally prefer not to use methods that require me to spray an acrylic sealer over the tile. Since I want them to be used as coasters, I want the natural stone to maintain it's absorbency.

The best stamp set choices for making tile coasters are those with fine line drawing images, and plenty of area for adding color. Fat lines and solid images do not stamp as well in my experience. I love choosing stamps that have a lot of subtle detail - images with shading and stippling add a lot to this project!

When I make tile coaster, I purchase the "Botticino" brand tumbled tiles from Home Depot. I wash them to remove the powdery residue, and allow them to dry before beginning the project. Once dry, I stamp my focal image in Stazon (permanent ink) - Timber Brown is my favorite color choice. I like to use a background (especially French Script) so I mask the focal image, and then stamp the background in Stazon as well. For best results, allow the Stazon to dry overnight (it really does make a difference!) Then I use craft inks and a blender pen to color my images. It takes just a tiny bit of craft ink - I have all 48 Stampin' Up! colors in the Stampin Spots, and I smudge my desired colors onto a palette (a blank CD works great for this, and we all have one we messed up on or has gotten scratched laying around - or a free one AOL sent us, right). I pick up a little of the lightest color choice first, then add color for accent in darker shades. Once I have colored my images, I bake the tiles to "really" set the color. About 5 minutes at 375 seems to do the trick. Colors do fade slightly once the tile is completely dry, so keep this in mind when coloring your image and make them more vibrant than you may desire in your completed work. Once they are baked (and cooled) I add felt pads to the bottom of the coaster. Tie sets of 4 together with a ribbon and add a cute handmade gift tag and VOILA! These are a lot of fun to make, and make awesome handmade gifts.

Missing and "Wanted"

2007-09-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

One of my coworkers is ill, and will be off of work for several months. The office is kindly taking food to his family every week....but I don't cook. And for those of you that know me at all, you know that taking MY food to a sick friend is really NOT an act of kindness. So I decided to make some cards to send ALONG with the food that others are taking instead.
Of course, if you know me, you know that masculine cards are not my best thing either...but I am working on that. I had an excuse to buy these fabulous (truly FABULOUS!) new western stamp sets so that I could make a special "WANTED" card. I am so excited by these stamps.

I aged the paper used for the focal image on this card using lemon juice. This is a really simply technique, and looks GREAT for cards that you want to look aged and distressed. You simply take your neutral colored paper (in this case, I tore the edges of mine first) and use a sponge or paintbrush to apply lemon juice. I like to use an uneven coat of the lemon juice so that I get "puddling" in some areas if possible. Then you heat the cardstock with a heat tool. The heat burns the lemon juice on your cardstock and turns it brown. This takes a while, so don't give up! Heat it more in some areas than others for the variation in color. And BE CAREFUL - the paper can catch fire, and fingers can get burned (no real need to ask me how I know) so take your time and proceed with caution :)

You might also notice that I have been adding Jumbo Eyelets to everything lately - well that is because they ROCK! These ones are the pewter eyelets, and gol' dang if I don't just love em! And of course you can't love the jumbo eyelets without the crop-a-dile. I bought this tool on a whim one day when I HAD to make a chipboard coaster box, and then it sat on my shelf for months. I am so glad I dusted it off and put it back into use - it really is a nifty little gadget.

Ingredients for this card: (note that this is a 5 x 7 card)
Stamps: Wanted, Bronc Buster, Canvas
Paper: Outlaw DSP, Chocolate Chip, Really Rust, Very Vanilla
Ink: Chocolate Chip (both classic and craft), Really Rust, Clost to Cocoa, Creamy Caramel
Ribbon: 5/8" Chocolate Grosgrain
Accessories: Lemon Juice, Heat Tool, Crop a Dile, Pewter Jumbo Eyelets, Sponge Dauber

Garden of Hope

2007-09-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is another card made with the GAWGEOUS set, Garden Silhouettes. But as predicted, my "set sampler" ended at just these two cards, because my new toys arrived and, well I got distracted. Come on, you new it would happen. But I WILL come back to this set! It is worth spending some more time with.

This card was very simple to create. I sponged inks in More Mustard, So Saffron, Creamy Caramel and Close to Cocoa onto Very Vanilla Cardstock. Then I stamped the leaf image in Chocolate Chip ink, and stamped off (stamped it again without re-inking the stamp) to create the shadow effect. I love how soft and ethereal this looks, but the colors are warm, masculine, and peaceful. I made this card for a coworker that is out ill - hope he will like it.

Pretty Pink Blossoms

2007-09-10T10:29:00.000-07:00

Oooooh! I am so loving this new Hostess Set - why are you all not beating down my door to try to earn it?! Seriously, cute! I am so excited to have had a few minutes to stamp (well, neglected other things to make a few minutes really - but that is beside the point). I have decided to work on set samplers for a few of the new sets I have recently received, and this one was just calling to me. It is so versatile, and just so pretty. Look for a few more this week made with this set (I hope). I have new toys arriving later in the week, so I want to make a few with this one before getting distracted by other new things!

The ingredients for this card:
Stamps: Garden Silhouettes (hostess), SO Many Sayings (hostess) Linen BG, Floral BG
Paper: Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink, Mellow Moss, Very Vanilla
Ink: Mellow Moss and Regal Rose markers, Regal Rose Classic and Craft, Mellow Moss and Always Artichoke.
Ribbon: Mellow Moss 1/4" Grosgrain
Accessories: Ticket Corner punch, Word Window Punch, Artichoke brads, Dimensional Adhesive, Sponge Dauber

I Scrapped!

2007-09-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I found some time to do some scrapping! For some reason lately it seems that finding time for this is next to impossible, and when I DO have time, creativity is somewhere else entirely. So I am very excited this weekend to have accomplished something. No, they are not my best pages, but the fact that I finished them is QUITE an accomplishment, so I wanted to share. I used up some of the retired papers and accessories that I have been hoarding (GOOD JOB, Kristine!!) I used the Retired "Treehouse" Designer papers, and the 2006 "In Color" cardstock and ink. The stamps and accessories used here include: Office Accoutrement, Genuine Article, Big Deal Alphabet, Short Order Alphabet & Numbers, Priceless, Everyday Flexible Phrases, On Board Chipboard, Spiral Punch, Jumbo Eyelets.
The photos are from last November, when My son Ethan and I did an overnight trip with the Cub Scouts. We took the train to San Francisco, where we spent the night in the Aquarium - slept in the shark tube! Then we took the bus to the Exploritorium. It was an awesome trip. I have a ton more photos, but am sadly out of this Designer paper, so will have to do the rest another day when creativity strikes again. I am off to try to do a few cards or simple stamped items before bed, as I still have a few hours in me! Have a great day!