I {HART} my preschoolers

Wishlist Wednesday

2011-09-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to my blog! Today is Wishlist Wednesday over at Preschool Teacher Blog. I am guest posting today and sharing my greatest wish for my preschool classroom.

There are so many things that I wish I had in my room! Things that would make my life as a teacher SO much easier. One thing I am waiting to be invented is a Ritalin pump. This contraption would pump Ritalin throughout the room and instantly calm the children. Yeah right! lol

Seriously, I have been drooling over lofts since I first volunteered in a preschool classroom over ten years ago! I think that they look super cool and they free up space in the room. They allow more children in a certain center (housekeeping would be my preference) and there would be less running over each other.

There are several types available but I love the one pictured above. I found it at ABC School Supply. Do you have a loft in your classroom? How do you feel about it? Please share!

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom!

2011-09-03T04:12:00.000-07:00

Among the books that I am crazy about is "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom". It is a simple children's book that teaches letters. We used this book for our theme the entire week last week! Here are some highlights:

We created our own coconut trees using apple slices, piroette sticks (those coffee sticks in the $ Tree!), malt balls, and letter shaped animal crackers (found them at Kroger)

Our theme this month is Language Arts so we decided to stretch the weekly theme onto our board!

I forgot to get a picture of our handprint coconut trees! We used the children's handprints to make the leaves and we drew a trunk. They glued foam letters onto the tree.

Last but not least, we listened to this catchy tune all week! My children still don't want to sit for story time so we let them dance while we hold up the book.

FREE Kindle Book: Organized Teacher, Organized Classroom

2011-08-20T05:52:00.001-07:00

I haen't read this yet but I just downloaded it to my Kindle! It is a free book worth checking out!

http://www.amazon.com/o/ASIN/B005307N0W/F50-20/KINDLE/

Our room is ready!

2011-08-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

Well, our room is mostly ready. There are no pictures of the inside of the teacher closet! I have "everything else" in there. I feel like our room is still a little sterile but I guess it will brighten up when there is beautiful child-made artwork hanging on the walls. This is my first time working in a brand new building! I am really excited to get started this year. Our old center was actually a re=purposed FUNERAL HOME!! Complete with VIEWING LIGHTS in MY ROOM!!! So, as you can guess, I am in Heaven in this room!

This is my "housekeeping" area. It is in the little alcove that my room somehow ended up with. I actually love it now!

My Block Area

Sand and Water Taable in front of my huge window! I love all the natural light we get!!

Science Area

Writing Center. In the corner is my big hat from a teacher who passed away a few years ago. I need to figure out how to clean and hang it up.

Our little Library

Paint/ Art Area

Our sink!! I love having this in the room!!

One of my two bathrooms!

Our music cart

My wreath. I need to hang it!!

I hope you enjoyed this little virtual tour of my room! I am hoping to have some free printables for you this week! Tomorrow is our first day of school so I don't know if I will be able to post tomorrow. I may be WORN OUT! ;)

Have Fun!

The Very Hungry Caerpillar CRAZY!

2011-07-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, as you know I have another blog that I am currently using only for my non-school crafts, spiritual stuff, books, etc. Well, I recently posted a great Resource Round Up all about "The Very Hingry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle! I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book and cannot wait until we start working on our VHC unit at Head Start! Until then, check out my post on my "other blog" and also a few more goodies I found on Pinterest!

My Very Hungry Caterpillar Resource Round Up
More resources!

My Pinterest Page is fluid so you can "follow" my VHC page on there or check back later to see if I added any more resources! If you need an invite, email me (check under the "about me" tab for my addy!) and I will invite you!

Pre-Service is Almost Over!

2011-07-27T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hello!! I just wanted to let you know that pre-service is almost over and I will have some regular posts to share soon! I have some great ideas from a class I took today and I am hoping to get some more ideas tomorrow! I cannot wait untlil we can get started in the classroom!!

Have Fun!

"Grand Opening!"

2011-07-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today's post is my first official blog post! I found out today that I will be teaching the youngest three year olds this year. I have never had children this young before so this will be a new experience.

Keep checking in to see what we come up with. I am planning on creating some usedful tools for the classroom, and I will definitely be creating some more great classroom crafts!

Have fun!

Facebook Mixer!

2011-07-24T15:01:00.000-07:00

As soon as I saw this on facebook, I knew I had to participate! My "official" Grand Opening is tomorrow but I wanted to post this announcement!

Kinder Fun, and awesome blog, is hosting her first linky party where all teacher blogs will get together and "like" each other on Facebook! My facebook frog is on the right sidebar of my blog, feel free to check me out! Click the picture at the top of the post to participate!

Have fun!

Blog Re-Do!

2011-07-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted on this blog in over a year! I moved everything to my new blog, Through My "I"s. Even though it is hard to keep up with one blog, I have decided that I need a "teacher" blog to post all of the great teacher ideas I have!

I left all of my old card posts on here if you are interested in checking them out too :)

So, without further ado, welcome to my new teacher blog,

i {HART} my preschoolers!

I didn't mis-spell heart, Hart is my last name!

Please follow me and visit often! I am FULL of ideas!!

OFFICIAL GRAND OPENING IS

MONDAY, JULY 25th

Have Fun!

Alicia

My Scrap Space

2010-06-30T18:04:00.000-07:00

I think that, as crafters,we all have a natural inclination to want to see other people's crafting spaces. I love to see other people's spaces. I even like to check out people's houses when I can. (the background of your facebook photos have been spyed upon if you are my friend.... fair warning!) I decided tonight that I would take some photos of my space so that everyone who reads this post can get an idea of how I organize my "stuff" and hopefully inspire you to organize yours as well (if it needs it...)

Remember, this is my closet so there's not much room...Here goes:

Let's start with drawers. I have two sets of drawers and one cabinet. This set came from "Fred's" a while ago on sale for $35. I bought it for something else and then ended up finding out that the drawers were 8 1/2 x 11. Great size for cardstock! My drawers are labeled. From top to bottom: TOOLS (scissors, bone folder, Crop A Dile, etc), PUNCHES (I don't have many so they all fit), ADHESIVES (all types- scotch tape, glue runner, baby X, dimensionals,etc), STICKERS (this drawer is rarely opened lol), CARDSTOCK (only what I will use as card bases. The cheaper stuff is stored elsewhere), JUNK (everything else... stickles, hodgeposge hardward, bling, stamp cleaner, etc)

The next set of drawers is these! They are about 13x13 square so they are PERFECT for 12x12 paper! I store my patterned paper on top, My stacks in the second (forgot a picture of my stacks... I use 2 gallon ziploc bags to keep each stack together with it's scraps), the third drawer is 12x12 soids, the fourth drawer is...guess... ink pads lol. I think the ink all over the drawer gives it away! The fifth drawer is my finished pages that need to be put away and a couple of small empty albums

Now my bins... this is a magazine holder my dad and I made a long long time ago. It is about 11x11 so the largest sheets of paper don't fit but I keep my scraps in here. I was using a large flat rate box that I re-purposed as a magazine holder. It is better for the 12x12 papers. I am thinking of moving my scraps to a bin in my cabinet that you will see soon....

I had a sterilite drawer that was placed here for my markers and it was perfect. Today I reached to get something off my closet shelf and dropped a yearbook on it and ~~cracked~~ obliterated the drawer. It went to the trash and in came this green caddy. I bought it at Dollar General for $1! I bought a few more for my Head Start classroom. I ahve my markers in it and I am thinking of putting some on-hand stuff in it. I use the mini clipboard to hold my images as I color them so I thought this was a good place to keep it.

I guess these are containers too... lol I have one for cards that I plan to donate, one for one cousin I want to send a "Care Package" to, and the other one is for another cousin... I like these boxes because they are free and only $5 to ship! I can fill 'em and mail 'em easily.

I save all the little zippered bags that curtains and bed sheets come in. I love that they are durable and have zippers! I was using one for my markers until I got the Sterilite drawer (and may be moving them back into a bag and THEN into the caddy...) Anyway, These are my bitty scraps that would make great 3x3 cards. I think that may be why I have been making so many of them. 3x3 cards are good for putting ON a gift and as a little note. I also have a template for a 3x3 envelope tucked into one of the invisible pockets inside the bag.

This is my "use it now" container. I put everything new that I recieve into it so that I am more likely to use it. I also dig through my stash sometimes and throw things in there that I "know" I'm going to use... yeah... Anyway, it really works! Throw stuff in there and pull it out first!

My new card catch-all. I use this to hold all of my newest cards until I file them in my high-class system (next picture)...

Yes, my dear scrapping friends... if you have known me a while, you know I love my Gain boxes... I put a plastic grocery sack inside so that soap residue doesn't get onto my cards. I stand them all up vertically and place them behind the appropriate tab. I have two boxes right now. I got rid of a TON of cards recently... time to fill 'em up again!

Now to my big baby! I invested quite a few bucks into this guy but he is my lifesaver! I bought the cabinet in Wal-Mart in the home improvement section. I bought each of the larger green containers at Wal-Mart in the "Rubbermaid" section for about $4 each. The rest are from Dollar Tree. I once decided that I needed to figure out what I own and group each like thing together. Here is what is inside from top to bottom, left to right: Stampin Up stamps-regular, Christmas, Bind It All and fixins, Cuttlebug and fixins, chipboard letters and photos that need to be scrapped, CuttleKids and fixins, Alterables, 5x7 cards (no they dont fit into my gain box...probably a big one though...) and small embellishments, card sets for gifts, hot glue gun/ heat gun/unmounted stamps, stamped images (in photo albums and lined up inside the bin with my House Mouse images on top), envelopes, ribbon, tutorial pages and ideas, and memorabilia that needs to be scrapped... Whew!! that was a lot!

Here's a close up of two of the boxes. I am thinking of labeling them all with my Stazon and my acrylic stamps. Before I bought these boxes, I really was using the larger Gain Boxes for my cuttlebug stuff, my Bind It All, and misc other stuff. You use what you have!

One photo I totally forgot was my loose stamps. I have a Sterilite drawer that was given to me by a friend and it has a larger drawer on the bottom and smaller one on top. It is on top of my 13x13 drawers. I keep my generic stamps in the bottom drawer and holiday ones on top.

I hope you enjoyed peeking into my space! I also hope that if you are over run with "stuff" that I have inspired you to simplify. You would not believe the amount of "stuff" I have given away! I had an entire flat rate box of paper and two to three trashbags full of stuff that I gave to novice scrappers. Share what you don't use and buy what you will use!

MY OLD SCRAP SPACE

Happy Scrappin! Alicia

Distressing without Da Stress

2010-05-16T10:42:00.000-07:00

Today I was playing around in my scrap area trying to get motivation to create some more cards for my Etsy Shop. As I was playing, I decided that I wanted to do SOMETHING with the "Ahoy Matey" images (Stampin Up!) that I recieved a while ago via a swap. I started out with the images and some patterned paper from "All About Boys" stack (DCWV). I then got the bright idea (!) to distress my images and then I ended up distressing everything! Here is how I did it WITHOUT buying any special supplies:

1. Gather your images/pieces together that you want to distress.

2. Use Apricot/yellow/ orange ink to distress the images. I used "Always Apricot" by Stampin Up but any similar color will do the job.

3. Using a cotton ball, dab..dab..dab the ink and then wipe it on the edge of the image going from the edge out. Dab...dab...dab the ink and wipe wipe wipe again. The cotton will touch the image so that you do not need to wipe directly on the image. Only the edges. If you don't see enough ink, come in a bit from the edge until the ink lands how you want it to. I only inked the white pieces with the Apricot ink. I ended up using a tiny bit on the edges of my card, too. I f you want the white to be more distressed looking, use the cotton ball to gently pat the left over ink onto the top of the piece. Do not dab first.

4. Use a dark brown ink to distress all edges. I used "Chocolate Chip" by Stampin Up! but any brown ink will do.

5. Use the same cotton ball and dab...dab...dab... the ink and then skate the edges of the piece. I stayed closer to the edges of the paper to give it a more subtle color since the brown is so dark. Also, I distressed the edges of the darker pieces with my scissor edge so that the ink showed up more. As you work on your pieces, you may decide to use more brown ink on certain places.

6. Now adhere your pieces together to create a distressed card. What do you think? I have this card for sale in my Etsy shop!

Have a Scrappy Day!!

Pink Stamper NSD Challenge #1

2010-05-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

Today is National Scrapbook Day! Over at mypinkstamper.com, Robyn is celebrating by posting a challenge every hour. I am really excited! The first challenge is to create a Mother's Day Card. I needed to make one for my Grandmother so it was perfect! Here is my creation:

The colors stink on the photo but it is actually blue and grass green... Hope you like!

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Days #141 and #142 and 2s4u

2009-07-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

Day #141- Super Sketchy Sunday

Day #142- Movie Monday- Here are the specifics:

Let the Twilight movie inspire your card: I have never seen the movie so I went with what I knew. The movie is a love story involving vampires.

Use a black card base or black background: I used black as my base and accents

patterned paper where the dominant color is red: The background patterned paper is
mostly red and the other paper has red in it.

embellish with either glitter or rhinestones: I used red rhinestones on the top right square and glitter on the black base flower

Anything else goes

This card also qualifies for 2s4u sketch #31

I decided that this card would be perfect to go along with a copy of the Twilight book or DVD. I have a friend who likes vampire movies so she may enjoy it...

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Days #139 and #140

2009-07-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's challenge on 365 cards was to create a card using the paper PEIRCING technique. Luckily I just cleaned out my scrap stuff and found my paper piercer which had never been used. I used Cosmo Cricket paper and I don't know where the doggy stamp came from...

Today's challenge was to create a card using paint somewhere. I got out my chipboard letters that I bought at Big Lots for $1 for like 100 of them. I painted them bright green and added some sugar coated glitter. I used all scrap paper on this one!

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Day #138

2009-07-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

Woot! Got this baby done early! Today's challenge on 365 cards was to create a card with a quote on it. I remembered some quotes I recieved in an image swap and went searching. I think the set is called "Funny Guy"? It has some really funny quotes. I found this quote and went searching for an image to accompany it. When I saw my poor boo-boo dragon, I thought he looked like he lost a few times. lol. I used scrap patterned paper and swiss dots embossing folder on this one.

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Days #136 and #137

2009-07-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

I think that posting my cards every other day is working best for me so I may continue to do it.

Yesterday's challenge #136 on 365 cards was to create a card using the colors black, white, and red. I made one card that was stretching the rules a bit. Then I decided that I didn't like it anyway and created another one.

Today's challenge #137 was to create a card by binding something. When I saw "Bind It" as the challenge title, I thought of my newest toy, the "Bind It All"! I bought the bulk discount wires from Bonnie's Best and, as the Zutter website states, they have less rings on them than the Zutter brand so you end up with three on the end. I used those "leftovers" on my card. I adhered my patterned paper onto some salvaged cardstock and adhered hot pink paper onto the inside. I used a snowflake shaped brad on the round tag and stickles on my snowmans little heart. I also used blue and white polka dot ribbon to finish off my binding.

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Day #134 and #135

2009-07-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

I did yesterday's card on time but was feeling sluggish and didn't post LOL

#134- Create a card using the sketch provided for inspiration. Something told me to make this into a sympathy card. Unfortunately, I found out today that I need it.

#135- Use a window and something clear on your card. This challenge immediately inspired me to create a shaker card. I love shaker cards but rarely make them. I have a zillion micro beads that I bought about a year ago and NEVER used.

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Day #133

2009-07-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

Today I went on a wonderful retreat and met some beautiful loving women. I am really refreshed and revived. I finished this card at lightening speed. I am actually pretty happy with it!

The challenge was to create a card using "bubbles" as inspiration. Today is the last day of the 365 week so I didn't have time to do what I really wanted to do which was to create patterned paper from bubbles and paint. I decided to create a card using this Bella image from a swap. I used my 3D poster paints again on the water/bubbles and some "skittles" for the bubbles too. It needed more so I glued some punched flowers together and attached a brad to them to finish it off.

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Day #132

2009-07-10T12:49:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to use this picture as inspiration! I took the colors yellow, orange, and red from the cake. I also decided to use the stars from some Independance Day patterned paper that I glued to the cardboard packaging of some juice boxes and cut out. I used my 3D poster paint again on the yellow parts of my kittys cake and I used a rub on sentiment because I have NO stamp that says "Happy Birthday". I didn't realize that until now. I NEED one! LOL Here's my card:

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Days #96, #105, and #131

2009-07-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

Slowly catching up for the year! I have three more challenges and I will be caught up! YAY!

Todays challenge #131- Ad Inspired- I was inspired by a lot of elements in this ad. Mostly I needed a sketch. I decided to use the ad as my sketch. The red and white polka dots is the girls robe, the fish paper, the shower curtain. The ribbon is the rug, and the background was supposed to be white but I just thought it needed "something". I also knew that Cosmo Cricket paper was in order!

Day # 105- Song Inspired- "Rainbow Connection"- I decided to use some paper that made me think of rainbows. I love this image and I added some color to make it match the paper!

Day #96- Fun with fabric- I bought this fabric YEARS ago. I never used it. I used my spray adhesive and attached it to some cardstock and used it as my base for this floral card. I think it needs more but I don't know what (again!). I think I need to start CASEing some cards so I can get in the groove...

Have a Scrappy Day!!

Lotsa New Stuff!!

2009-07-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

Today I have a bunch of stuff to showcase!I will try to stick to the basics so my post isnt too long!
365 Cards Day # 77- Make a Note- this is an old challenge that I never completed. We were to include a "note" on the card. I used my Bind It All to create the little holes at the top and used my scissors to cut in between to make it resemble a Rolodex card.
2 Sketches 4 You- Sketch #30!
I think I am going to save this for my friend's first day of work as a "real" teacher!

365 Cards Day #129- Stitch- we were to stitch an IMAGE on our cards. I decided to use this SU image and stitch over the little faux stitched parts and the bow at the top.
Use It Challenge #17- Here are the requirements:
1- Use your newest papers. I used my new Cosmo Cricket Stack
2- There has to be a name on the card. I used my fiance's nickname
3- Use at least one button. Got three of em!
4- Use your sewing machine, if you have, or try to stitch, a tiny piece, by hand. Stitched that image!
Here it is!

365 Cards Day #130- That Tickles Me!- We were to create an amusing card. I used a $1 set to create the sentiment and an image RAK from my friend Janie to create this funny card!
Pile It On!- I didn't realize that my card yesterday didn't count for Pile it on. I thought that as long as it was a new card, it counted. Oops! So today I created this card using the necessary 3 embellishments. I used Stickles on the pink on the cake and ice cream in my image, I used 3D poster paint on the cherries, I used ribbon, and I used brads!

...
Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Days #76 and #94 and extra

2009-07-07T14:26:00.000-07:00

I have a few "old challenges" from 365 cards to post and a new one from the Pile it On challenge! I am trying to catch up for the entire year at 365 cards! Wish me luck!!

Day #94- I thought I posted this one already but I cannot find it anywhere so I am re-posting it and linking it so I can get credit at 365 for completing it. The challenge was an "ad inspired" challenge and I chose the colors and pattern from the ad.

Day # 76- I completed this one today. The challenge was to create a card with the embellishments on all four corners and only on the corners. I am also entering this one for this week's Pile It On challenge, fun challenge blog where you are encouraged to pile on the challenges!! We were to use three different embellishments. I used buttons, bling, and a sticker!

Extra!! I was looking for something to create last night and decided to color in and use this cute little cowboy. I dug through my stacks that I have been hoarding and got this cute patterned paper from the DCWV All About Boys stack!

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 cards Days #127 and #128

2009-07-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was one of my favorite... a recipe challenge!Here are the necessary ingrediants:
1 5x5 Card- check- I also embossed it with my paisley embossing folder
1 Rub-on image- check!- I used a paisley rub on I got at Big Lots forever ago
2 Buttons- check!
1 Piece of patterned paper- check! I used a scrap piece!
1 piece of ribbon - NO BOW- check!
1 Sentiment inside the card- check-It says "sometimes good things just happen to people, like when you happened to me"

Yesterday's challenge was another sketch challenge. I had it ready yesterday but it still doesn't feel "done" to me. I added stickles to my little flower but it still feels like it needs something else...

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Day #126, Cuttlebug Challenges, and Pile It On

2009-07-04T08:18:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to create a card using the Patriotic colors of America... the old red, white, and blue combo! I love my flag and I love my country but this is not my favorite color combo. I decided to challenge myself and create a card that is NOT 4th of July themed. I also have been trying to use my favorite Stmpin' Up! set, Bugs and Kisses more.

I also am hoping to have this posted in time to count for the "Pile it On" challenge blog. It's a challenge blog where you combine thier challenge with at least one other challenge. This week's challenge was to use 4 buttons.

This card also qualifies for this week's challenge at Cuttle Bug Challenges. Use red, white, and blue and buttons!

Also, I would like to wish everyone a happy Independance Day! I am a proud direct descendant of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, John Hart! We will not be celebrating today though. We are moving our 4th to the 5th LOL due to timing issues! Have a great day and enjoy your freedom, wherever in the world you are!!

Have a Scrappy Day!!

My Scrap Space

2009-07-03T15:17:00.000-07:00

I was asked by "Sammie" from Mommysavers.com message board to post my scrap space. I love looking at other crafter's spaces too so I thought it would be fun to just go ahead and post it here on my blog!I still have a lot I want to get rid of and re-organize. I didn't post a picture of my counter because it has a pile of "stuff" on it right now! LOL

This is my right base cabinet. I have my ribbon in the cookie bucket and in some spaghetti/mason jars. I also have my "skittles" and mini punches on this side. I have the little bit of chipboard that I kept, mostly letters, in the paint bucket.On the bottom there is a plastic "shoebox" full of cards...

In my left base cabinet, I have my Christmas embellishments together in a box so I can work on Christmas cards, I have my Cuttle Kids and envelopes on the top shelf and my misc stamps on the bottom behind the Christmas embellies. Next to that is my box of "alterables"

In my wall cabinets, I have my brads, eyelets, and misc small items in those Craftmates containers. I have my images in the clear "crates" organizd in mini photo albums. My Stampin Up sets are stacked in here too. I also have some bins that I do not like holding my adhesives of all kinds. I am thinking of getting some more mini crates for that.

This is my cabinet that I bought at Home Depot. I LOVE this cabinet!!

This is the top of my cabinet. I have my cards in the recycled Gain boxes (40 load size)I put a small bag as a liner before putting my cards in. I also have a box of pens and pencils up there. And a scrapbook that I am working on for a friend.

This shelf is the home of my

CuttleBug and accesories (inside the Gain box- 80 load size) and the new home to my Bind It All. I am waiting to finish this box of detergent we are using now so I can keep my BIA accesories in it! LOL

Scrap paper! Solid paper on the right, patterned paper on the left...

This is where I keep my two snapware containers. I have hot glue and glue gun in one, heat gun, versamark, and embossing powder in another. My buttons are in one. Also on this shelf is my "stamnps to use now" crate, my unmounted stamps, and my embossing powders in Hefty containers.

This is the bottom shelf. I have my recycled cardboard pieces and my cardstock down here. I also have my growing collection of patterned paper "stacks" nestled in my recycled Priority mail box!

Hope you enjoyed seeing my messy space! I am hoping to get it better organized and I will re-post some updates photos when do! Please link here to show me your space!!

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Day #125

2009-07-03T08:35:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to create a card using some type of closure. I happened to be going through my tutorials folder this morning and totally forgot about the buckle closure card! I don't have a word punch so I punched two holes with my crop a dile and cut the paper from between them. Here is my creation-

Have a Scrappy Day!!

365 Cards Day #124

2009-07-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

Hmm.. I have some technical difficulties on the WORST possible day!! Today's challenge on 365 cards was to use something computer generated. That's great because I have fallen head over heels in love with Dustin Pike's digi images and planned to use one with a typed sentiment neatly snuggled underneath. But!! Big BUT!! My printer is designed to stop printing ALTOGETHER when one of the ink cartridges is empty. Well,I knew my color cartridge was empty but since I was printing in "black ink only" mode, I thought I was safe. I wasn't.... SO I dug out a previously printed Dustin Pike digi and used it for this card. I also used my fun patterned ribbon instead of patterned paper today. Thanks for Looking!!

I also ordered some more "o" wires for my Bind It All today from Bonnie's Best. I think they are a "knock off" brand but, including shipping, I only paid 58 cents each! I will be giving a report on them soon! I heard that they are just as good as the name brand. We shall see....

Use It!! and 365 Cards Day #122

2009-07-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

YAY! I finally got motivated to complete the "Use It!" challenge this week! I love this challenge blog! Here is this week's run-down:
1. Use something inspired by nature.
(flowers, trees, animals, etc.)
I used this image of the old lady relaxing in the water

2. Use polka dots.
I recieved this AWESOME Cosmo Cricket paper stack from winning a drawing at 365 card. In it was this polka dot paper that made me think of an old swimsuit from the 50s or something so I ended up using it and taking my card down vintage lane.

3. Use your favorite embellishment.
(ribbon, buttons, brads, bling, etc.)
I originally just had buttons on here but I LOVE ribbon and I felt I was missing something. I went back to the card last night and remembered that I have a whole tin of HodgePodge hardware in my cabinet. I grabbed this little ribbon thingy and some very vanilla ribbon and completed the look!

4. Mail your creation to someone special.
You'll make their day!
(Remember, you may need to add extra postage).
I know exactly the person who would appreciate this card! My good friend, Rena, whom I haven't seen in a while.

Just a side note, this is my very first vintage card and I love it! I used reg SU chocolate chip ink and a Mr Clean Magic Eraser to distress my base cardstock and image. Hope you like!

Today's challenge at 365 Cards was to use white space. Specifically, use the white space in the center and only embellish the diagonals. Well, I had an idea and it just didn't pan out how I wanted. Something is MISSING from this card, but I don't know what!

365 cards Day #116 and #122

2009-06-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

On 365 Cards on day #116, we were to create a wedding card with no sentiment. I couldn't figure out what I wanted to do. While struggling with the four seasons challenge (see yesterday's post), I came up with this card sans the wedding cake. I didnt like it for my seasons card but thought it would be perfect for my wedding card. I added the cake embellishment and it was ready to go:

Today's challenge was a little easier. We were to use wrapping paper on our card. Since I am completely addicted to pretty patterned paper, I have a small stash of wrapping paper that sits in my closet. I rarely wrap gifts but I love to buy pretty patterns. I planned on only using the wrapping paper (pink/orange polka dots) on the orange cardstock and the ribbon. While looking for an image to add to my card,I came across this one that I had already colored to match the blue hawaiian print paper. I added a strip of the Hawaiian print paper to the card, popped my image up on dimensionals, and the rest was history! I love how this one turned out! I am ussually one to match-match my patterns and colors....

365 Cards Day #121 "Four Seasons"

2009-06-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Oh my! This was a hard one for me. I just couln't get myself to think of something "original". When I saw the challenge I knew I wanted to incorporate the "seasons" scripture verse (which I now have memorized from typing it so many times - without saving it!). I stamped on white cardstock with always artichoke ink, on cream cardstock with old olive ink, on white cardstoick with black ink... I just couldn't get it right. I tore up everything and tossed it in the trash. THEN I got the bright idea that I did not have to stamp anything! I have a patterned paper stack called- get this- ALL SEASONS. Duh! LOL SO, after much fighting and arguing, here is my card for a church friend who is going through a rough "season" in her life....

I am thinking of adding a little button in the bottom left corner...

Money Saving Monday

2009-06-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

WoW! On 365 cards, today's challenge is a doozy! I was trying to think of some thing "different". We are to incorporate all four seasons into one card...

Anyway, today's project is going to be a cheat for me. I made a video last night and I am going to make that the project. If you don't have a bind it all, just use a crop a dile and cut two holes at the top and thread some ribbon through.

365 Cards Days #118 and #120

2009-06-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

The challenges on 365 cards have been getting more and more challenging. I love it! The only problem is that sometimes it takes me more than one day to get an "idea" so I tend to run behind.

Day #118 challenge was to create a card using a frame. I looked through my stash and couldn't find a frame. Then, I remembered that I had some kits in my drawer and in the drawer were my frames! I used this teeny frame to showcase the wonderful letter "A" (my initial ;) )to create a monogram card. I am thinking of using the rest of the frames to create a little set. These are something that i would have NEVER used! I am so glad I did! Oh, after I finished, I thought that the background piece would have been better if I had used my CuttleBug to emboss it.. oh well...

Day #120- today- the challenge was to use this awesome sketch as inspiration. I had my tart n tangy SU set out that I LOVE but NEVER use! I used the orange to create the little embellishment and then decided to try Versamark on my base. Well, the paper I used does not like to let Versamark soak in to create watermarks. SO luckily I had some clear embossing powder that I used to emboss the watermarks. I am actually pretty proud of myself for thinking of a little "extra". One day I will be like some of the other 365ers and create pure works of art. Until then.... I will continue to practice!

I have also uploaded a video on Youtube and plan to upload more. They are VERY simple videos but I enjoy making them! My username is "scrugglenamp"

Apple Book Video Part 1

2009-06-28T16:53:00.001-07:00

365 Cards Day #119

2009-06-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to create a card using a silhouette. I had this little turtle stamp from Target $1 spot that is solid colored. I used my black ink on white cardstock to create a silhouette.

365 Cards Day #115

2009-06-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

One of my most favorite techniques to admire is paper piecing. Today's challenge on 365 cards was paper piecing. This is something that I really don't do often enough! I had fun creating this little basket full of flowers. I stamped my Stampin' Up! basket onto my patterned paper from my scrap stash. I used my tiny scissors to cut it out. I then used some little punched flowers that I recieved in a RAK and glued the orange ones directly onto the paper. Then I used my Crop A Dile and punched the leftovers from some dimensionals to create teeny tiny dimensionals. I attached those to the blue flowers and slipped them into the spaces between the orange flowers to create some added dimension. I used my border punch and a piece of ribbon to complete the card.

Money Saving Monday and 365 Cards Day #114

2009-06-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

First I would like to thank Pam at 365 cards and Cosmo Cricket! I was chosen as the random winner of last week's contest!! I am really excited to play with a new PATTERNED PAPER stack!!! I love patterned paper!! YAY!

Today I combined my money saving tip with my card for 365 cards. Today's tip is to
MAKE YOUR OWN CHIPBOARD
I made mine with my Cuttle bug. First I used my ribbon Cuttlebug die and cut 6 pink ribbons. Then I used my Swiss Dots folder and embossed one pink ribbon. I ran all but one through my "little X" sticker maker. I then placed one on top of the one that wasn't sticky. I repeated this with each piece, ending with the one that was embossed.
The challenge on 365 cards was to use lavendar as the main color. Here is my creation:

365 Cards Day #113

2009-06-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

Super Sketchy Sunday! I love this sketch! It was a lot of fun to make this card. It's a simple card but I like it... And I finally used my Bugs and Kisses set again! I love this set but rarely bring it out!!

365 Cards Day #112

2009-06-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today's Challenge on 365 cards was to create a wedding card with the word "love" in the sentiment. I used some $1 stuff I had in my stash to complete this criss cross card.

365 Cards Days #110 and #111

2009-06-19T15:06:00.001-07:00

I totally forgot to post my card yesterday! Today through Tuesday I am hosting an online crop at mommysavers.com but I really want to win that prize this week so I will be posting here again tomorrow!!!

Day #110- Use Argyle Pattern and make it "male"

Day #111- Use bold and bright stripes (WHOO HOO!)- My scanner really messed up my pink though! LOL The base is actually a very hot pink!

365 Cards Day #109!!

2009-06-17T08:22:00.001-07:00

Whoo Hoo! I have been keeping up with 365 for 2 days in a row! That's an accomplishment for me right now! Today's challenge had me in "color shock" (I think its the "culture shock" of the paper crafting world! LOL)! We were to use these colors:

So not my colors! Very muted and serene. Very pretty but not me. Well, once again, Pam pushed me into trying something new and I totally love how it turned out!!
I saw this tearing "technique" somewhere and I thought it was neat so I got to put it to use here! Very simple but i think simple is my "style" LOL!

365 Cards Day #108

2009-06-16T07:57:00.001-07:00

Today's challenge was a slightly easier one. I had to create a little boy's birthday card. Last night I was looking at my Cuttlebug Embossed paper collection and thinking how much I REALLY want/could use the number folder. Today was the perfect opportunity to use the two sheets I had left from a RAK! I also used this digi image from Dustin Pike and some freebie clear stickers for the sentiment. This was also the last piece of this ribbon. Using that stash! LOL Enough of my WAFFLING (thanks for the new word again Bohemian Gypsy/ Michelle!) Here is my card:

Money Saving Monday!

2009-06-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

Or should I say Too Late Tuesday? LOL. I completely forgot that yesterday was Monday! If you know how to set blogger so that I can set it to post at a later date, please let me know! Thanks...
On to Money Saving Monday- CREATE A CHIPBOARD ALBUM

You can buy one for $1 and sometimes more or you can create one from old cereal boxes like my friend Wendy did HERE. I bought this one at Michael's and, with the help of my talented sticker-loving 3 year old, created a color book!

I traced off the pattern onto one each red, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, brown, black, and white cardstock. Then I cut it out and glued it onto the chipboard pages. I used my adhesive runner but spray glue is a better choice.

Then I let my 3 year old go through his box of stickers and he identified the colors and then stuck them to the corresponding page of the book.

At the end, we used some of my scrapbook stickers that I recieved as a RAK. They were rainbow themed and they were perfect for the back cover! I wrote "put them all together and what do you get?" and we stuck all the little rainbows on!

Don't forget! The Mommysavers crop will be hosted by ME! Starting this Friday! The Frugal Scrappers (Alicia sent you!!) will be having a "Frugal Scrappery" (similar to a crop with AWESOME prizes!!) on June 25!!

365 Cards Day #107 and Frugal Scrappers MMI #3

2009-06-15T13:22:00.000-07:00

Today at 365, we were to incorporate the word "girl" into our cards. I immediately thought of an old Stampin' Up! card I saw once that said "You Grow Girl!" and my preggo bella image I recieved from a friend. I combined the two with my favorite bright colors to create this:

At Frugal Scrappers (Don't forget to tell them I sent you if you join!- and they are having a frugal scrappery on JUNE 25TH – 30TH!! Dont miss it!!) the challenge was "Make It Monday" where we were given a template for this "Cute Bug Box". I decided to create a mini first aid kit with this template and my newest Dustin Pike image! I know I will get a lot of use out of this cute little guy!

365 Cards Day #104

2009-06-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

Whew! I have a couple of images that I colored and set aside with some patterned paper scraps. I planned to use these before anything else and they ended up sitting in my scrap area unused. Well, today's challenge at 365 cards was to use grass as our inspiration. As soon as I saw my Fourth of July paper and Grilling Fella sitting out, I knew what I would do!

On Mommysavers.com, our Use It challenge this week was a recipe challenge. We were to use: patterned paper, ribbon, 3 layers, and an embellishment we have never used r haven't used in a while. I used all of the above and the embellishment that I used was a sticker photo corner. I'm not sure I have actually ever used photo corners before. Oh! This card is for my rockin motorcycle momma friend who just got her first job as a second grade teacher!! YAY!

365 Cards Day #103 and Pink Stamper Color Challenge

2009-06-12T04:42:00.000-07:00

I had all this ready yesterday and got distracted and never posted! Aggh! Anyway, here is yesterday's challenge for 365 cards. It was a recipe challenge:
4.25 x 5.5 card
Solid Background
2 patterned papers
Stamped Sentiment
3 Jewels

Also, the Pink Stamper posted a color challenge on her blog. The colors we were to use were:
pink
dark brown
olive green
accent color: purple

Yes, I am still learning how to take pictures with this camera! LOL

365 Cards Day #102- Challenge Combo

2009-06-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

FIRST I want to post this invitation for everyone:
What is coming? Well....I can't quite tell you yet...BUT...it is gonna be big! It is gonna be fun!

YOU ARE NOT GONNA WANT TO MISS IT!!!!

Time: June 25, 2009 at 6pm to June 30, 2009 at 12pm
Location: Frugal Scrappers

More information will be coming SOON so go sign up today!

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to take one challenge from March, one from April,and one from May to create one new card. The challenges I combined are:
March- # 19 "keep it to yourself"- this challenge was to create a birthday card with no sentiment
April- #44 "money holder"
May- # 83 "make it match"- create a matching envelope

This card also fits the "Waste-Not Wednesday" challenge at Frugal Scrappers. Please consider joining frugal scrappers! There is a new challenge everyday and the ladies there are the best!

Here is my card:

365 Cards Days #100 and #101

2009-06-09T15:32:00.000-07:00

Can you believe we have been through 100 cards already!! I am only lacking a few before I hit the 100 mark with 365 cards but I have passed 100 so far this year!! I have mailed out more cards and remembered more special occasions than ever!! I am SO happy!!

Todays challenge was to use a vegetable in our cards. I knew immediately that I had some images I had stamped off of a friends SU Veggie stamps that I wanted to use. Then I had to decide which one! I chose the carrot because, honestly, i didnt have any paper to match my big green artichoke! I really wanted to use the artichoke! I also used some of the paper from yesterday's challenge in my attempt to go "scrapless"!

Yesterday's challenge was #100!! We were to use my favorite colors- bold brights! I decided that this lovely ladybug was begging for some fire red and that the perfect topper would be some of this black glitter that I have been hoarding for too long! I'm pretty new with glitter so its a little messy but I think it looks fine. I idnt add a sentiment because I thought that it would be best to wait until Im ready to use it to decide what I want it to say...

SO far BEHIND!

2009-06-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

Aggh!!! I have been trying to keep up with all the challenges from 365 cards, mommysavers.com, and other places but I think I am falling behind.... I completed these cards throughout the week but havent posted them because I didnt like the photos and I was waiting for a sunny day. A busy sunny day came and went and I still didnt retake the photos so here they are- blurriness and all:

DAY #99- Almost to 100 cards!! I am only lacking a few and they will prob be done soon. This card was to be inspired by the sketch and also include dragonflies in order to be eligible for a special prize!

DAY# 95- Wacky COlor Wednesday- Oh this one was fun! We had to combine BLUE, ORANGE, AND PINK!! I think it turned out really well:

DAY #93- CAll me. I actually did day #94 but never got a photo... so here is #93, telephone and all!

DAY #92- Another sketch challenge. I am working with my friends on mommysavers.com to create my christmas cards early so I planned to start making my sketch cards my Christmas cards...

Finished some more teacher gifts!

2009-06-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

I HAVE to catch up on 365 tomorrow! I have been in the mood to create something other than cards today, so I finished off these pocket cards with the decorated clothespins. I tucked a wallet size photo into each card. I got the idea for the cards at http://www.michellewooderson.blogspot.com . I LOVE LOVE LOVE this blog!!!

I also made 20, yes 20!! of these little artwork clips for the children in Jacob's class. I put a magnet on the back so that the children can display thier summer artwork on the fridge!

365 Cards Days #86 and #91

2009-05-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge was to create a card with everything close to the center. I used this Dustin Pike image and a Studio G stamp to create this simple but fun card. It also qualifies for mommysavers.com mini crop challenge to create something inspired by the word "laugh"

On day #86, the challenge was to create a card inspired by grapes. I knew I had SOMETHING in my stash that was "grapey" but couldn't think of what it was. I finally came across this grape paper and created this purple and black "grape" card.

365 Cards Days #89 and 90

2009-05-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to create a card using two colors. I also had to make a monochromatic card for the Mommysavers.com mini crop. I used the colors black and grey.
Day #90:

Yesterday's challenge was to create a card inspired by a watermelon. My two favorite stamps both have watermelons on them so this was easier :)
Day #89:

365 Cards Day #88- Quite a Pair!

2009-05-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was another one of those "??" challenges that sparks something in me and makes me thankful for Pam and the team! I was to create a card for an anniversary or engagement, NO wedding. Well, almost everyone I am in contact with is married already. BUT this challenge caused me to remember that a beautiful couple I know is going to be celebrating thier one year anniversary very soon! They are a lot of fun and I knew exactly which image and typed sentiment I wanted to use! I got this image from a RAK and I wasn't sure when I'd use it. I love how it turned out!!

The wonderful Sara (finkerdoodles) sent me my very first bottle of stickles! I used them on the heart brad in the center of the flower and also on the bouquet. I also added a little piece of bling to her hair-do!

365 Crads Day #87

2009-05-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to create a card and use the word "eye" somewhere on it. At first I was lost! Then I thought about the fact that I wanted to make more "praying for you" cards to send to people and decided to search for the perfet Bible verse. Psalm 121 was it!

Here's the verse:

I lift up my eyes to the hills- Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip -
He who watches over you will not slumber;
Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD watches over you
The LORD is your shade at your right hand;
The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm -
He will watch over your life;
The LORD will watch over your coming and going
Both now and forevermore.
Psalm 121

Here's My Card:

More cards, more cards.. lol

2009-05-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

Visit Stampin' Out Alzheimers

Okay, I'm trying to catch up and I am still falling behind. lol. I am at least trying to stay up to date though. I have to find something "grapish" to complete today's challenge. In the meantime, I am posting everything that I finished. My problem is that the rain has prevented me from getting good photos so I had to scan them. Here they are:

Day #83: Make it Match- match the envie to the card. I made another coffee card for this challenge.

Day #84: Card Recipe-
1 3x3 card
1 flower
1 brad
1 piece of ribbon
1 stamped sentiment
and NO PATTERNED PAPER!

Day #85: Super Sketchy Sunday-

365 Cards #72 and #74

2009-05-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

I was at a loss trying to do todays challenge so I decided to work on catching up. I completed challenges #72 and #74.
#72: Musical Monday- Incorporate Music Notes. I used my Cuttle Bug to cut out the music notes and used some card candy that I recieved in a swap last year.

#74: Handwritten Sentiment- I hand wrote in the little word bubble.

I also made this little owl card also using the card candy from last year.

I wanted to introduce my idea. I took a basket from the Dollar Tree and I started throwing in little items that I have recieved as RAKs or that I find in my cabinet and think that they need to be used soon. I call this my "Use This Now" basket!

365 Cards Days #73, 75, 78, 80, and 81

2009-05-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I'm all mixed up today! LOL! I worked on the challenges that inspired me today and then maybe tomorrow I can finish them and be caught up once again!

Day #81 (today)- Use 5 squares. I used 2 squares on the stamped image and mat. One square for my patterned paper piece, and 2 square brads.

#80- Use plaid. I was playing with these new stamps I bartered with a friend for. I used plaid ribbon to complete this challenge.

#78- Sketch. I used another of those cute bees to create this sketch inspired card.

#75- Coffee. I used some images I got in a mommysavers.com swap a LONG time ago!

#73- Circle, Scallop, Bling- Easy Peasy. I used a circle embellie that my friend sent me. It was already complete with bling on the little heart. I added some scalloped border and ribbon to finish it off.

365 Cards Day #79- Monday's Manufacturer

2009-05-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

My trip was FANTASTIC!! I learned lots of new stuff to take back to work with me in the Fall! I also had lots of fun goofing off! We spent each evening at the beach and a restaurant. Lots of "girl time" like a grown up Slumber Party!
Here is me with my Award:

Also, Saturday was Shawn's First Holy Communion. This was a big deal and he reveled in his celebrity status for the day! Here is the best picture I could have ever taken:

******************************************************************************
Today's challenge was to create a card using a majority of the items from your favorite manufacturer. I am really starting to love many different man. but my favorite is still Stampin' Up! I hear PTI is great but I haven't tried it yet! I used all SU products except for the ribbon. I have no clue where that came from. I recieved everything else as a RAK from my great friend Jess!

Last Post until Saturday!

2009-05-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

I am excited, nervous, and a little sad to leave tomorrow. I have never been away from my kids for more than overnight so this is hard. I am sure I will have lots of fun and I'm really worried about them missing me! I don't want them to be sad.

Anyway, I finished up a few things that needed to be done before the end of the week and here they are:
365 Cards Day #71:
This is the card I will give Shawn on Saturday in celebration of his First Holy Communion. He really loves this picture and wants one for his room so I thought he would love this as an image on his card.

I also needed to make small gifts for the other children in Shawn's class and his Sunday School Teacher. I decided to make prayer journals. There are 7 boys and 1 girl. I forgot to take a picture of the one girl one I made but these are the boy ones (I will be posting a tutorial when I get back). Also, I made his teacher a Post It Note Center with matching pen.

365 Cards Day #70 and Sunday School Goodies

2009-05-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was an ad inspired challenge. The ad is beautiful. My card is so-so. lol. I am not sure about it. I used three different squares of the same patterned paper to create a quilted look on the bottom panel. Then I hand cut the stamped images and matted them with a circle from my punch. I added some lace and called it a day. I think it needs something else...
AD:

MY CARD:

I also finished two covered notepads for Jacob's Sunday school teachers and some little peppermint patty treats for his classmates. Tomorrow is the last day of Sunday School until next school year. Shawn's First Communion is on the 16th so I will make something for his teacher and classmates sometime before then. I will be gone from Tues-Fri though! I am still getting the hang of this camera so the first picture is kind of foggy and the others are scans

ONE MORE THING: I am wanting to buy this stamp set that was used on the peppermint patties. It is called "All Gods Children" and is a retired Stampin' Up! set. If you know someone who is selling it, PLEASE let me know!! I really love this set. I got these images from an online friend a while ago.

Use It! Challenge #9

2009-05-08T15:05:00.001-07:00

This week's Use It! Challenge was a REALLY fun one! I think that's why I went ahead and did it. I needed something for my Pre-K son's Sunday school teachers and I thought that these covered notepads would be perfect. This one is for the assistant who is a 14 year old girl. I think that she will like this.
THE CHALLENGE:
.
1. Color challenge: PINK, BLACK, WHITE
Not as much white as I was envisioning but I like it. I immediately thought of these stickers when I saw this color combo!
.
2. Accents: SCALLOPS, RIBBON, AND BLING, OH MY!
I used all three of these on my book. I used ribbon to tie it shut. I made a scalloped border for the edge and a scalloped circle showcases my monogram. I used TONS of bling. I had a set of bling stickers that said "Bride" and had a heart and a martini glass. I cut the blings apart and decorated the scalloped circle, my lady's hat, and her bags.
.
3. Pattern: POLKA DOTS, BABY!
I wanted more polka dots but just didnt have anywhere to put them! I used dotted ribbon and use my bling to create dots on the scallop. I also used my Crop-A-Dile to create "dots" in my scalloped border. Did I mention that I used my "Swiss Dots" CuttleBug folder on the monogram circle?
.
4. D.I.Y.: aka 'do it yourself'
I completely made the border on this book. I used my corner punch to make the scallops and my Crop-A-Dile to create the circles cut out of the border.

THE CARD:

365 Cards Day #69

2009-05-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

Dontcha LOVE it when you have NO idea what you are going to do for a challenge and you totally outdo yourself?? That's what happened today! The 365 challenge for today was to make a graduation card. Since I had already made the only two that I need this year, I was trying to think creatively. THEN I remembered that my son would actually be "graduating" from Pre-K. I went in search of a great image and found this stamp that I havent really gotten much use out of. I then switched up patterned papers several times before settling on these two patterns. I used the 2 sketches for you sketch as a base but didnt follow it so I am not submitting the card for that challenge. I made the grad hat from black paper, a brad, and an altered piece of fiber. I used rubons that are AGES old for my sentiment and that's about it. I really LOVE this card though!

HERE'S MY CARD:

CLOSE-UP OF THE CAP:

MY LITTLE GRAD-TO-BE (He got to put our first bag of recyclables in the new main stream recycling truck at his school today!)

Catching Up Again!

2009-05-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

I had to play catch up again on 365 cards! I am leaving for my trip to St Simon's on Tuesday so I hope to keep up until then and then play catch up once more when I get back on Sunday! I also mananged to get my Use It! challenge card done while working on these.

Today's challenge #68- I WANT CANDY- I have had this song stuck in my head ALL morning! LOL I used a candy image from a Studio G set. I used my CuttleBug to add some dimension to my cardstock and used patterned paper as my main background.

Challenge #67- THINK PINK- I used my new Dustin Pike image on this one! As soon as I saw the image I knew I would use my coveted Ms.Elizabeth sprinkles paper! I wish i had bought more when they had it at Dollar Tree! I love this pattern!

Use It! and 365 Challenge #66- YOU ARE THERE I AM HERE- I accidently wrote it the other way when I wrote the sentiment. LOL. I also combined this with my Use It! Challenge. We were to use a flower- check, a piece of metal- my CuttleBugged aluminum can! (thanks MXD for the idea!)- check, and fibers- check

Challenge #65- MOTHER'S DAY CARD- I made this one to give to the ABC Women's Clinic. If I finish the cards by Monday, I could present it with the cards. I may just mail it to them with a little "thank you" and maybe a couple $$.

Challenge #64- SKETCH- Very simple card. I used faux stitching on this. It also qualifies for the Mommysavers crop challenge to include stitching.

BTW: To all 365ers, I cannot comment on many blogs anymore because my computer seems to go crazy when I get on blogs. It jumps to Internet Explorer (I use AOL as my server) and then it keeps opening the blog endlessly until I hit ctrl/alt/del and shut down the entire computer. I have never had these problems on my old computer! Aggh! I will still try to view and comment but I may not be able to do many before I have this problem again! Sorry!! Thanks for all of your great comments too!

365 Cards Days #62 and #63 and Cupcake challenge!

2009-05-04T04:15:00.000-07:00

I am running a little behind on 365 Cards. I will catch up! I celebrated National Scrapbook Day with The Pink Stamper and today is the first day of a weeklong crop over on Mommysavers! I am the hostess for next month's crop! Here are the cards for Days 62 and 63:
Day #62: Age is nothing but a number. This did not have to be a birthday card so I made it a Mother's Day card! It says: "34 number of years you have been a mother" (the age of my oldest sibling) and the inside says "Countless= the number of times I can thank you!" Also, using numbers was this weeks cupcake challenge!

Day #63: 8 FLOWERS. Aye Yi Yi! This was a challenge! I finally came across these neat 3 part flowers in my stash. I took one part off of the smallest one so that the total number of flowers is eight!

NSD Update

2009-05-03T13:35:00.001-07:00

I am finally going to update everyone on what I did for National Scrapbook Day! I stayed on The Pink Stamper ALL DAY!The videos were awesome and the giveaways were even better! There's still time if you'd like to join in! I am going to try to finish the last three challenges tonight but I am getting farther behind on 365 cards and there's a crop on Mommysavers tomorrow! Here are the challenges I completed:

Challenge #1: Combine the color brown with a pastel color. I used this patterned paper that was left over from my post-it center that I made. I just love this paper combined with a Bella image so I went through my swap images and found this one. I know plenty of kitty lovers so this won't be around too long! For some reason, I love to add red hair to almost all of my images. If not red hair, I make them African-American. I think it's because when I was a child, there were never any brown haired Barbies and I hated it (because I have brown hair) so I try to be sure to include all people :)

Challenge #2: Try something new. Aggh! This one had to be a chipboard album. I had two blank ones in my stash but have never actually decorated one. I didn't think I would like it. I REALLY thought that I would make it ugly. I like the outcome but it was a lot of work for me and definitely not something I'd sell at a craft fair.

Challenge #3: A Kid's Page. This is the pictures I have of my youngest DS playing with his FAV Christmas present. He is really into trains. When I saw this Nana's Kids stack, I knew I had to have it for the choo-choo paper!

Challenge #4: Mother's Day. I made this card combining the 365 challenge from Friday which was to create a card using numbers as the most significant part. The front says "34- number of years you have been a mother" and the inside says "countless= the number of times I can thank you!"

Challenge #5: Scrapbook Sketch. My middle DS loves Wall-E. He is absessive about the movie, the character, and the principals of recycling! He got SO excited when I added a recycling bin to my craft space! So, some Jacob and Wall-E themed pictures will be going on this "naked" LO

Challenge #6: Use patterned paper with your die-cut machine. I used my CuttleBug. I don't have very many dies for it so I was limited. I decided to use my little airplane and this whimsical colored patterned paper.

Challenge #7: Faux Chipboard. Robyn (The Pink Stamper) swore that everyone prob knew all about this but I had never heard of this concept before! I used my CuttleKids for this one. I used the fishy shaped die and some cheap cardstock I got from Big Lots for $1. I cut it out about 5 times and used my little "X" to make it sticky. I stacked all of the pieces and it turned out SO cute!! I used some more of that paper from challenges #2 and #6 (see Mish's tip for today HERE for more info on WHY)

Also, guess who #3 is HERE

(yes, me!! YAY!)

365 Cards:Caught up for April!! & Belli Challenge!

2009-04-30T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am finally caught up for the entire month today!! I had skipped day #47- the Pop-Up card. I actually tried it and was amazed at how EASY it was!! I also made my card for today's challenge. We were to use a leaf somewhere on our cards. I used this hummingbird image and I used some glitter stuff on the center of the flowers to add a little interest. I also used a jumbo brad to complete the challenge on Belli Blog I actually have a larger brad but it was too big! LOL

TODAY'S CARD (61) AND BELLI CHALLENGE CARD:

DAY 47 CARD:

Don't forget that tomorrow is the beginning of the "improved" Use It! Challenge Blog!! Please cheack it out and support this awesome challenge blog! (and use some of your stuff too!)

365 Cards Day #60

2009-04-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 Cards was to create a card using the sentiment "what". I hope this one counts! I printed out "What's Up Cupcake" on my computer and created this little row of cupcakes using Studio G stamps. I also got my color scheme from this ribbon that I bought at Michael's for $1. When I got home, I noticed that it was labeled for Christmas and thought that it should have been cheaper! LOL Anyway, here it is:

I just noticed how simple it is! LOL> Maybe I'll add some more to it later! LOL

365 Cards- All Caught Up! Days #57, 58, and 59

2009-04-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

I am finally caught up for this week! I thought I was going to end up getting too far behind. Here are the cards (commentary will follow each card):

Today's Challenge (Day #59):

We had to make a "Miss You" card. I dont have a stamp with that sentiment and no printer ink so I decided to combine this with Mommysavers Use It Up #2 challenge (again) and I used 1 piece of lace, 2 pieces of ribbon, 3 handwritten words, and 4 "skittles"

Day #58:

This challenge was to create a card with a fish on it. This was hard for me because I insisted I was going to use a fishy stamp that I have never used. Well, when looking for something for my "Miss You" card, I came across this Seahorse and "Thank You" sentiment. I then found a piece of Cuttlebugged paper with this wave design and completed the card.

Day #57:
THE SKETCH:

MY CARD:

This is "Super Sketchy Sunday"s entry. I tried to make it look kinda like a bandana. I also used some more "skittles" on this one...

Money Saving Monday and TPE challenge

2009-04-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

Today's Money Saving Monday tip is: FREE IMAGES
You can find free images on packaging that you are throwing in the trash or recycling bin! I was about to throw away the box to these baby cereal bars (like Nutra-Grain bars) and I noticed that the cute little bee might fit in my circle punch. I tried it out and it worked! I combined this with this weeks TPE sketch challenge and it's very simple but I think it's also very cute. This one will be donated to ABC Women's Clinic. Thanks for looking!!

THE BOX:

THE IMAGE:

THE CARD:

ATCs and Class Treats

2009-04-26T16:52:00.000-07:00

Sadly, I have not done my 365 challenge for today. I am not really inspired by sketches so I kinda put it off for tomorrow. On the other hand, I have been working! My camera is now in Camera Heaven. I dropped it yersterday trying to take a photo of my class treats and I broke the lens mechanism. I had a Cannon Power Shot and I LOVE it! It was my second one. So tomorrow will be another trip to the bank so that I can replace it. Unfortunately, I have to dip into my trip money for the summer :( Anyway, I borrowed my sister's camera to take today's photos:

At Mommysavers, we are having an ATC swap. There is no theme so I thought I'd use some new Studio G stamps I bought the other day at Michael's. They were scrapbook themed and I thought that, although they are the CUTEST, I wouldn't get much use out of them. SO I was glad to be able to use them for this. I am not sure if I like them or not.... I used the Studio G set for all of the stamping. I stamped the base with three of the stamps (the glue bottle, a tag, and scissors images) I then stamped the "create" and cut it out. I also stamped the scrapbook image and cut it out. I typed and printed the "ready, set," in Courier font on my computer. I CuttleBugged my black paper (2x3) with the Swiss dots folder. I then decided that a flower would be cute and the button shaped brads were kind of crafty so I used them for the centers. I glued it all together and this is what I got:

Also, I broke my camera to photograph the class treats I made for my sons Pre-K class. They raised almost $400 for the MDA!! They had thier Hop-A-Thon on Friday but I have been having eye troubles and couldn't drive to see it. So I am sending these little treats tomorrow. I used my favorite Stampin' Up set that I own, "Very Punny" to make these little circles and attached them to the scallops. It is all scrap paper and I used Green Galore ink to stamp the images. Again, I do not like this camera. It is hard to see the image. It says "Hoppy for you" (Hop A Thon- Hoppy for you)I used glue dots to attach them to Reece's Cups. I also tied the bag with a ribbon when I was done :)

365 Cards Day #56- See through Saturday

2009-04-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to use acetate on our cards. Also, on Mommysavers Use It challenge #2, we were to use 3 things that we hoard using the first item 1 time, the second item 2 times and the third item 3 times. I used my acetate (1), clippies (2), and chipboard alphas (3). Here is my little boy birthday card:

I am thinking of pulling my lion up and moving him to the right a little to balance the card a little. I got the acetate in one of those grab bags from Big Lots with $100 worth of stuff for $12!

365 Cards Day #55- Card Recipe

2009-04-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 is to create a card using a recipe that we were given. Here is the recipe:
5x5 card (solid colored card stock - may be smooth or textured)
4x4 patterned paper (you may alter the edges if you'd like)
1 shape (circle, square, star, heart, etc.) - must be solid color
3 jewels
alpha stickers

I, of course had to play with my Cuttlebug some more and I used the Swiss Dots folder on the base and the Paisley folder on the heart. I used my Martha Stewart lace punch on the patterned paper and some gold alpha stickers for the sentiment and 3 green jewels. Here is what I "cooked up":

365 Cards Day #54- Recycled Elements

2009-04-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

I was really excited when I saw that today's challenge on 365 cards was to use recycled elements. I wanted to do something different than what I had already done so I decided to do something I had seen before. I used an old acetate box that some really long cards came in. I cut it down to 4 1/4 x 5 1/2. I decorated the outside to coordinate with the inside. I would have made all 6 cards with Bellas but its really hard to stamp her because I still dont have a large acrylic block... So, I used my BRAND NEW CUTTLEBUG!!!! and cut some ribbons and also embossed the pink strips. I only had a small piece of pink sheer ribbon left so I made a little purse handle for the box to finish it. I also paper pieced Bellas dress on the front with the same patterned paper as the cards. Here is my creation:

I also forgot to post yesterday that my youngest ds and I made this "Go Diego, Go" piggy bank out of an old Juicy Juicy container to celebrate Earth Day yesterday (my computer was acting CRAZY yesterday!)

Earth Day!!

2009-04-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

As promised, I have a big post for Earth Day! I had more planned but didn't have time to get it all done. Maybe I'll add some of the other things to my next Money Saving Monday. I went through my scrap paper today and put some of my patterned scraps into envelopes with coordinating solid scraps and then got to work creating as many cards as possible. I used white CS as my base and the rest is all scrap paper. I created 15 cards!! I have a million more scraps and plan to do more cards in the coming days to reduce my scrap pile! I will probably make some more baby cards to donate to the local crisis pregnancy center. I am still trying to collect 100 cards to take! Here's what I made:

365 Cards Day #53- Fun With Fruit

2009-04-22T17:12:00.000-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was Fun With Fruit. We had to incorporate fruit into the design. I started with a cherry and ended up with a House Mouse. I thought I knew exactly what I wanted until I started! LOL. I have also been working on Earth Day cards today so I have been busy. Here is my fruity card:

365 Cards Day #52- Tuesday's Trio and #51

2009-04-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

Today was another "Tuesday Trio" on 365 cards. The requirements were to use Brad, Blossom, and Circle. I used circles cut from circle patterned paper as my BG and then I added my Bella image and 2 primas with a brad and I used a rub-on for the sentiment. I have been falling behind a bit on 365 so I need to get to work catching up. I may edit this post later to add the other cards.... we'll see... Anyway, check tomorrow because I am planning on doing a big post to celebrate Earth Day!
Here's my card:

This is a little blurry because its inside- Day #51:

Money Saving Monday

2009-04-20T16:43:00.000-07:00

I plan on making this a new event on my blog. Every Monday, I hope to post a new money saving craft idea! I am really into Frugal Living and would love to get more into recycling.
Before I begin, I want to announce that my friend Sara, is giving away some awesome blog candy in celebration of her official title as Fiskars Certified Demonstrator. Please check out her blog following the link on my sidebar or HERE.
Okay, on to Money Saving Monday.... today's craft idea is these cute little gift boxes that I made for my sons' teachers. I bought a set of 12 white boxes in a package in the wedding section at Dollar Tree. They measure 3x3x1.5. I made my notecards to 2 7/8x 2 7/8. I did this by cutting my paper 2 7/8 x 5 3/4 and folding it in half. I then decorated my cards and the box to match. Here is the completed project and the cards inside (there are actually 8 cards but I only took a picture of 6 by accident):

365 Cards Day #50

2009-04-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

Only 315 more days! LOL Today's challenge on 365 cards was another "Super Sketchy Sunday". This sketch involved an oval and I have no way to cut one so I kinda skipped that part! LOL. I also had to re-do the blue and brown layers because I messed up with my stamp. Finally, I created this card: (the colors on the close-up are the actual colors)

3 new "green" cards...

2009-04-18T15:24:00.000-07:00

I was about to throw away a Coke case and I realized that I could be using some of the cardboard on it for my cards. Then I came across a challenge on the "Our Creative Corner" blog to use recycled items- how perfectwas that? I pulled out my circle and scallop punches and went to town. I then tested them out by creating 3 3x3 cards with a "green theme". I am going to send these to a very green and Earth-conscious woman that I met online a few years ago and who I think is INCREDIBLE!! I hope she enjoys them!

I used the Coke box paper for my circles and Michael's stamp for the center. I used some "wood grain" scraps to create the BG paper and I used some florescent cardstock that I have been trying to use up (and now I'm starting to like it! LOL)

365 Cards Scor-It Finale

2009-04-18T08:27:00.001-07:00

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to create an accordian card. At first glance, this card looks pretty easy and not very threatening. Ummm.... looks are decieving. Sometimes people and card styles just mesh. Me and this style do not. I think that my cardstock was too flimsy and my eyelets just weren't right. After I took the photo, I took the cover off and attached it to a 4 1/4 square card back. lol. This also qualifies for mommysavers "use it up" challenge to find a new technique to use something in your stash. I used microbeads and the technique was to use a glue dot to adhere them. Anyway, here it is:

365 Cards- Scor-It Day 6

2009-04-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I have skipped day #5. The only day I haven't done since 365 bagan. I am really intimidated by that challenge and I wasn't feeling well yesterday so I am saving it for the weekend. No more work for me until August!! I am happy. Although I get unemployment for the summer, I get to spend time with my children and that is the best benefit of my job!
Anyway, today's challenge on 365 cards was to use scores to create a pattern on our paper to use on the card. I made a grid pattern on the lime green paper that I matted my Bella with. I think I would like to own this Bella although this is just an image that someone sent me :( My friend's daughter just had her tonsils removed and I was thinking that- if I thought ahead once in a while- it would have been cool if I had made her an ice cream themed card and give her a GC to Dairy Queen or Brusters since that's the "one" benefit to getting them removed- unlimited ice cream! LOL This card is more for birthday's and what not though.I used a few embellies today! (do you believe it? LOL) I used some bling that I recieved as a RAK on mommysavers, some ribbon I just bought at Wal-Mart, and some 3D glue stuff (that smells like strawberries) that my co-worker bought at the Dollar Tree and gave to me to see if I could do anything with it. I love that stuff. It's very inexpensive and a bunch of colors come in the package. I just squirted a little dot on the ice cream cones and two dots on the package in the sentiment. Also, have you noticed that I have been using "Riveting" a lot? I rarely ever used this set since I bought it from my friend. I now need to use my SU set "Enjoy Every Moment"!! Enough talking!! Here is the card:

THE CARD:

CLOSE-UP OF THE 3D GLUE STUFF:

CLOSE-UP OF THE SCORED DESIGN:

Combination "Green" Card

2009-04-15T13:50:00.001-07:00

I made this "green" card in order to combine several challenges. I ussually try not to combine too many challenges but I loved how this one fit together!

The first challenge is on 365 cards #46. We were to make a matchbook card in celebration of Scor-It week. The tutorial I followed is HERE.

The second challenge was on Mommysavers. We were to create a card for Earth Day using either Earth Tones or Organic Items. I chose Earth Tones! I also used recycled cardboard :)

The third challenge was on Belli Challenges #63. We were to create something using dry embossing. I used one of the sheets of CB paper I got from Sara :)

The last challenge was on "Use It!". We were to use something out of our comfort zone (a matchbook card-never made one before), a hoarding item (all those CuttleBugged papers I have recieved from friends), a new favorite (those awesome brads I won on 365cards), heat embossing (the sentiment "wanna hug a tree with me?")

Here is my card:
FRONT:

CLOSEUP (see those cool brads?? you should see the others!!)

INSIDE:

Belli Challenge- Cello Bags

2009-04-14T16:39:00.000-07:00

This week at Belli Challenges, the challenge is to create something using a Cello bag in it. I happened across this blog while blog hopping that was presenting exactly what I wanted. She recycled an old box to create a cute treat holder. I'm not sure if I like mine but it was my first time. LOL Here it is:

365 Cards- Scor It Day #3 and TPE #10

2009-04-14T14:45:00.001-07:00

Today is the third day of Scor-It week on 365 Cards. I hope that I win the free Scor-It mini that they are giving away! I've lost too many pen caps to count. LOL I use my trimmer and the pointy end of a pen cap to score my cards right now. I also chose to combine this challenge with The Pink Elephant challenge for this week to use the colors PINK, GREEN, and YELLOW. Umm... girly colors. So not me! LOL Anyway, here's my card:
MY CARD:

CLOSE-UP:

OPEN:

BACK OUTSIDE:

365 Cards- Scor-It Day2

2009-04-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Day #2 of Scor-It week on 365 cards. Today's challenge was to create a money holder. It happens I recieved an invitation today for my friends Graduation. She is graduating from college with her BA in Early Childhood Education. She happens to be last year's Teacher of the Year for our agency, the designer of last years winning t-shirt (I am the designer this year), my Sponsor at church (like a god-parent), and a cat lover! She's a great person and has worked REALLY hard for this degree. So, I created a kitty themed graduation card (I think shes a little too "adult" for the old caps and gowns- though I guess kitties aren't real adult! LOL) Anyway, here is my creation:

It was really wet out today (after almost a week of PERFECT weather!) so I photographed indoors and the colors are off but you get the idea. I used the tutorial I found on Design Team Member Vicky's Blog, Paper Girl I added a little insert in the top pocket that I can write a personal note on. I scalloped the edge with my corner rounder and added another piece of ribbon. I used my M's $1 clear stamps once again and some two-sided cardstock from my stash, and misc scraps, including the footprint ribbon. Hope you like it!

Oh, here's another picture of my boys. They had a blast after church yesterday with the Easter Bunny!

365 Cards Day #43

2009-04-12T12:52:00.001-07:00

Scor-It week has officially begun! What fun!! I really enjoyed making this great gift card holder! I used some old bright neon green cardstock just to do a practice run and, amazingly, it turned out great!! It's so easy to make! Here is the tutorial: Mackenzie Mae Designs
And here is my card:

I forgot to take a photo of the inside. It's pretty plain but I did add some velcro to keep it closed and then I added a scallop around the little "indent" on the inside. I have made other gift card holders but this was the easiest and there was no bulk at all!

365 Cards Day #42

2009-04-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

Today on 365 cards was "Stampin' Saturday". We are getting revved up for "Scor-It" week starting TOMORROW!! I rarely do scoring projects (other than my much-beloved Criss Cross Card) so this will be a week of FUN! Also, its my last week at work until we are out for Summer Break! (only prob is we go back in AUGUST! when its 104 outside!!)SO, here's my card where I had to make my OWN patterned paper. I didn't look at the other cards first like I sometimes do because this is something I tried before and was never happy with my results so I didn't want to get intimidated by looking at all the other AWESOME creations! I used a Studio G stamp set and a dragonfly stamp to complete the BG papers. I also used a digi-stamp girl that I found free HERE
We have started a list of free digi-stamp links on Mommysavers HERE
MY CARD:

CLOSE UP OF MY GIRL:

Today we also went to a community Easter Egg Hunt. It was a lot of fun and the boys loved it! I really like living in this small community where we can do things like this! Here are a few pics:

365 Cards Day #41

2009-04-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

Yay!! I have made 41 cards since March 1st! Actually, I made more than that! I have been making cards for other challenges and a few just for fun. Anyway, todays challenge on 365 cards was to create a "Get Well" card and use 5 flowers. I am not a real "flower" person (though it is growing on me) so I don't have any Primas (but the Dollar Tree had some funky flowers that I wish I would have picked up!) So I went through my image stash and found one with exactly 5 flowers on it! It's a cute image and I think it fit the theme well. I typed and printed the sentiment on my computer: "I am praying for your quick recovery". I hope I don't need to use it soon though :)
(The picture is a "quickie" sorry for the poor quality :)

365 Cards Day #40- Spring Break & Easter Tags

2009-04-09T11:30:00.001-07:00

Today on 365 Cards, the challenge was to use the sun, sand, and surf to inspire you. I knew I wanted to use one of my images that I hoarded last summer in a swap and I thought this little Moose was perfect. I CASEd yet another card too. This time from my friend LeeMP22 on Mommysavers.com. I had to go out and buy some glue dots so that I could use some of the million "skittles" (or "baubles") that I have.
MY CARD:

Last night I stayed up late coloring, cutting, and creating these Easter basket tags for my boys. I am going to embellish them a little more but need to laminate them first. I used some of the paper I just got from Joann.com (DCWV All About Boys) and an image that I got from this site that a fellow 365er posted on her blog. I used my CuttleKids to cut the letters.

BTW, my son's name is Antonio but we call him "Toad" and "Antonio" wouldn't fit! LOL

Mommysavers Crop

2009-04-08T18:14:00.000-07:00

As promised, I have photos of all the cards that I made for the Mommysavers.com Online Crop. This site is for moms who want to save money but we also have quite a papercrafting forum going on. Our biggest mission is to scrap and save money since it can be such an expensive hobby. Anyway, here are the cards:
CARD MADE COMPLETELY FROM SCRAPS: (not hard because they ALL were! LOL)

CARD MADE USING SUNSHINE OR BRIGHT YELLOW:

RAINY DAY OR UMBRELLA: (not rainy but there is an umbrella!)

INCLUDE A TREE:

CRAFTER'S CHOICE: (First Communion Congrats Cards)

BABY CARD: (doncha LOVE big bird???)

INCLUDE A BIRD: (my dad's b-day card)

Not a card but a cute picture!
MY TWO YOUNGEST BOYS COLORING EASTER EGGS AND BEING SILLY!!

365 Cards Day #39- Funky!!

2009-04-08T08:21:00.000-07:00

I really thought that todays "Wacky Wednesday" color combo on 365 was for Halloween! The colors are PURPLE,ORANGE, and GREEN! I really wanted to work this card in with the Mommysavers crop and I wanted to use one of the new images I got from a Mommysavers image swap (can you tell I'm addicted to Mommysavers?? LOL). I looked through the images and this dress caught my eye. I already had it colored purple so it was perfect for this challenge. Now to combine this elegant (but really fun) purple dress with such crazy colors! I looked through my stash of scraps and came up with a few things I liked. Then I thought of this AWESOME dress card that I recieved in a one on one Gina K card swap. I pulled it out and the creativity began. When I finished, I decided that this is the funkiest, coolest card I've made thus far!! Thanks 365 team for such INSPIRING challenges!!
****THE CARD I CASED********MY CARD****

MY CARD:

365 Cards Day #38- I Quilt!

2009-04-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, this was the most difficult challenge so far! I cut my quilt blocks using a square punch so they were WAY too big. BUT they wouldn't have looked right if they were smaller. So I made a card thats like 5 x 5 instead of reg sized. I then added a 4 1/4x 5 1/2 card to the back so it would stand up. I put an Easter reflection prayer on the front and I think I will be framing it to go with my Easter stuff :) It also fits with one of the Mommysavers crop challenges: use pastels. Here it is:

365 Cards Day #37 and 2S4Y #23

2009-04-06T16:50:00.000-07:00

First, I want to share a photo my son took. He is 9 years old and him and my fiancee (his dad) went to survey the damage of the floods in our town. There is moderate flooding and it is supposed to start going down now. We live off of the Oconee River in Georgia. Anyway, I thought this picture was pretty cool:

Today's challenge on 365 cards was to DIY. That is, create your own piece of embellished chipboard. I also combined it with this weeks sketch on 2 Sketches 4 You Sketch #23. THEN, I realized that it fits with the Mommysavers challenge to use blue and green. (my fav color combo at the moment!) So, another triple play for me!
THE SKETCH:

MY CARD:

BTW, I used another one of my Michael's $1 cupcake stamps (I love cupcakes!!- you can tell by my waistline) and some 3D glue stuff from Dollar Tree. I covered it with my Sugar Coating Glitter (I need to buy more of this stuff when I go back to Michael's!!). I colored everything with my handy dandy Sharpies!

Oooh Oooh Oooh! Almost forgot!! PLEASE visit 365cards next week for Scor-It week!! I WANT one!!! I am definitely going to love all the "fold" challenges they will be offering! (no scor-it needed to play)

Use it! challenge #5

2009-04-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

This week's "Use it!" challenge is great. We are to:

1. Dig out OLD scrapbook die cuts and use at least one
2. Use a piece of patterned paper you have had over 2 years
3. Tool or technique you used to use all the time
4. Something bought recently on clearance

I used:
1. Old die cut tag thingy- I trashed or gave away most of my die cuts because I never used them. I did find this though.
2. I don't have any idea where this paper came from- therefor, its OLD! LOL. I think its Mrs Elizabeths from the Dollar Tree.
3. I never really used my deco scissors ALL the time but I used them a lot more than now. I used them to make a scallop around this cute little bunny oval.
4. My clearance item? Those carrot buttons I bought for.... 21cents!!! Yes! I love them and meant to use them on more of my Easter cards and never did.
Overall, this card is busier than I'm used to. I have to let it grow on me :) I also combined this with the Mommysavers crop challenge to make an Easter card.

365 Cards Day #36

2009-04-05T15:35:00.000-07:00

Today was "Super Sketchy Sunday" on 365 Cards. It's also the beginning of our card crop on Mommysavers. One of the Mommysavers challenges was to make a birthday card. I have been dying to use these Studio G stamps since I recieved them. I followed the 365 sketch. The stamps actually stamped VERY well. Ussually the cheap Studio G stamps feather on me like crazy. I did some close ups so you can see how crisp they turned out. Also, in case you were wondering, I do all my coloring with Sharpie markers :)

THE SKETCH:

MY CARD:

The Pink Elephant Challenge #8

2009-04-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

This weeks challenge on "The Pink Elephant" was an Easter theme. You can create ANYTHING as long as you follow the theme. I like this. Sometimes I like to make altered projects or baked items and I can still participate. This is my first time with them and I made a card. My 3 year old DS helped me make this card for my mom. He chose the colors for the eggs and he glued everything down with me. Here it is:

365 Cards Day #35- Thanks Sara

2009-04-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

I say "Thanks Sara" because she sold me this Stampin' Up! set (Basket Full Of Fun) that I used on this card and I know that she will love this card :) Today's challenge was another ad-inspired challenge. I love these challenges. I have never really used inspiration for my stuff. I just sit and do something but between 365 cards and MishMash, I am seeing that inspiration leads to beautiful cards! I think I need to get to work on my "inspiration notebook". Oh, I am definitely going to be photographing outdoors from now on! Notice how the colors are WAY truer??

THE AD:

THE CARD:

365 Cards Day #34- Egg-cellent!!

2009-04-03T17:03:00.000-07:00

I have had a SUPER Egg-cellent day!!! First I was at work and I found out that I WON Middle Georgia Community Action Agency's "Teacher of the Year". This is the Head Start Agency that serves all of central Georgia!! I am really excited!!

Then, I go to 365 cards (as soon as I get home) and there is my name in ALL CAPS! I won a random drawing hosted by Pam at MacKenzie Mae! Please check out the card kits she is offering!

Today on 365 cards, the challenge was to use an oval or an egg as the main image. Aggh! Umm... this was REALLY hard for me. I am still not sure about the card but here it is:

365 cards Day #33

2009-04-02T14:09:00.000-07:00

Today on 365 cards, We were to leave white space. We were challenged to use only 1/3 of the total space on the card. This was NOT easy. I like to use patterned papers and large images. So, I finally decided to use this ribbon (My very favorite from Michael's $1 bin that I wish I had more of!) and a silk flower and a sentiment stamp and keep it simple. Seems like I have been using a LOT of flowers lately! Hope you like!

Another Combo! 365 Cards Day #32, 2 Sketches 4 You, Use It!

2009-04-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

YAY! I managed to combine 3 challenges and made a card that I am quite proud of. The first challenge is on 365 Cards. We had to use water as our inspiration. I decided I wanted to do a frog card and had the perfect image for it. Then I looked at the sketch challenges I had printed for this week and thought that the 2 Sketches 4 You sketch was perfect! Then I checked my printout from Use It! and saw that it would be easy to incorporate it in this card. The Use It! Challenge this week is to use at least two different ribbons (the green with the yellow stitching and the bright blue), punches or die cuts (my nifty scallop circle and circle punches!), scrap paper (I am trying to stay on a scrap paper diet anyway so that was easy), and something you had to have but rarely use anymore. I had a bunch of cuttlebugged papers (the light blue BG paper- paisley design- need new camera) that I have been hoarding, some frog brads that I had to have and also the Riveting stamp set that I bought used and rarely break out. Oh! and I used micro beads on the little ladybug in the image. Here is the triple inspired card:

365 Cards Day #31 and Cupcake Challenge Sketch

2009-03-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

YAY! I finished the entire month worth of cards! I now want to start thinking of more people to send cards to! LOL
Today's challenge on 365 cards was to use rounded corners, nothing sharp. I decided to combine this with a sketch challenge on the cupcake challenge blog (another one I am starting to fall in love with!) I also decided to break out my sugar coating glitter again! I love this stuff!!
THE SKETCH:

MY CARD: