A Full Life

Happy Birthday, Hannah!

2012-02-07T22:30:00.000-06:00

A not-so-young anymore friend is turning...gulp...15! I remember being so excited when her mom told me she was on the way and now she's a young lady. sigh

Here's the card we sent her:

And a pocket inside for the iTunes card.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: cold enough to wear a sweater, cat sleeping in sun patch, Diva's joy when she remembered it was dance day, brothers both proud of her counting by 2s to 100, and mail carrier leaving dog treat in mailbox for Soph

Stamps: The Stamps of Life HappyBday2You
Extras: CB Happy Birthday folder

Toadally Frogtastic

2012-01-30T22:30:00.000-06:00

Busy day for me! We spent the day at the History Museum and tonight I had a mommy date. My friend from WAAAAAAAAAAAAY back (30+ years) and I finally got our schedules to coordinate and had dinner together. Her birthday is in a few weeks, so a gift and card were in order.

Gah even frogs are cute in polka dots!

He is popped up with flat backs for eyes. Nothing boring about this froggy. The balloon was one of Em's quarter machine necklaces that broke. See, never throw anything away! haha I tied the string to his foot because well that's what you do for a frog with a balloon.

Denise is 7 months older than me, a fact she loved when she drove first and I delight in pointing out now. Paybacks, right?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: kids who love history, old friends to laugh with, husbands who say 'go, have fun, see you tomorrow' and mean it, warm brownies, waiter who says 'take your time, catch up, we're slow, I don't need the table' and means it (yes, we doubled his tip)

Stamps: The Stamps of Life froggy2love and HappyBday2You
Paper: Cosmo Cricket Circa 1934
Extras: ColorBox chalk inks Copics, flat back black pearls, broken necklace ;-)

Feel better

2012-01-25T13:24:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine was thrown from her horse yesterday. She's okay, nothing broken, just bruised...her hip and her pride. lol

I decided she needed a little chocolate, because it makes everything better.

Directions for cute little Ghiradelli square holder found HERE. Thanks, Angie!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: only injured pride, Ghiradelli stash (shhh, don't tell the kids it's here), just rain not freezing rain, Nook, kid laughter

Stamps: PTI Simple Little Things on front, inside sentiment from The Stamps of Life candy2share
Extras: chalk ink, Spica, ribbon from Michaels

C'est la vie!

2012-01-24T12:24:00.000-06:00

Over Christmas break Em's dance studio moved to a new (bigger!) location. The new studio is gorgeous and her teacher is so happy with the new space. Em's thrilled to go back to dance class tonight, so I made her a card to take to her teacher.

I used Mojo Monday 225, it was a perfect fit for the ballet fairy. Isn't she cute? So is my little ballerina. ;-) Paper Makeup Stamps calls this fairy 'Marissa', but Emily says it's her. I told Em she could take that name matter up with Miss Katie over at PMS. Whatever you call her, I think she's adorable with her big smile and twirly skirt! My center panel is popped up, so she's practically leaping off the card at you.

I double stamped her skirt, colored the lower layer with pink and sparkles, then stamped it in vellum, coloring the back side in pink. It's adhered only at the waist and it kind of floats a bit off the page.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: glitter, passion, tiny diva who thinks it's all about her, dog snores, blueberries

Stamps: Paper Makeup Stamps Marissa and French sentiment
Paper: Echo Park Vellum and metallic are Recollections
Extras: Copics, Stardust, Prismacolor, Pop dots

New week, Newly inked

2012-01-23T12:07:00.001-06:00

The stamp is new, but the rest is OLD. I'm pretty sure this was an Echo Park kit from Paper Makeup Stamps....last Valentine's Day. At least I'm using it now, right.

I know it's hard to read. The sentiment (from PMS) says 'Anyone who says they only have one life to live must not know how to read a book."

AMEN!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: Keurig, fun family night last night, crisp apple, Cinderella at the breakfast table, and books, of course

Stamps: PMS Read a Book WA
Paper: Echo Park Be Mine?
Extras: ribbon and flower from the same kit

Sweet life

2012-01-18T22:30:00.000-06:00

No, not Suite Life, although we as a family are quite fond of quoting London....'smarticle particles' and 'yay, me!'.

Isn't that gumball machine cute? I would love to have a vintage machine on a stand, but haven't yet found one I can afford. Someday!

Inside:

Sweet, right? Yay, me! ;-)

I put Crystal Effects on the globe, which is hard to photograph. Trust me, it's shiny like glass. lol

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: fun at Magic House, Em waiting for 'HER' postal clerk to open up (she loves Mr. Rick...he has stickers), funky fun scarves, hugs from kids that aren't even mine, and a friend recovering well from surgery

Stamps: Unity 3/10 KOM
Paper: DCWV Sweet stack, of course
Extras: Copics, Crystal Effects, MS punch around

Scrap Stack Diving

2012-01-14T22:30:00.000-06:00

Just a very simple little card today. I fell for Unity's Comfy Cozy when it first came out and I finally got my hands on it. I can't decide if I like the chair or the couch better. Today I used the chair so I could use this sweet sentiment.

Doesn't that look like the coziest chair? I could totally spend an afternoon there with a book.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: football, watching Bridesmaids with Scott and both laughing like crazy, buckeyes from the freezer, kids' dance party, crisp fresh sheets

Stamps: Comfy Cozy
Paper: dibs of scraps
Extras: Copic on lamp

Fabulous Friend Friday

2012-01-13T22:30:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday the 13th!

This card is for a young friend who is turning 12 next week. She is fabulous! And fun! And cool enough to dig wonky-eyed, tooth-challenged monsters.

I sort of followed Tracy's Sketchy Thursday #156.

My second panel is a bit small and they don't overlap as much, so it's not quite the sketch. That's what I get for running the laptop battery down and going off my not so good memory. lol

And the inside has a slot for the all important iTunes GC.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: Rachel, fireplace, great books, hot cocoa during spelling, all 3 kids reading together on the couches

Stamps: The Stamps of Life list2write and trees2build
Paper: Cosmo Cricket Circa 1934
Extras: EAD Designs monster sticker

Flying

2012-01-12T13:00:00.000-06:00

The title applies to both my card and time. It's already Jan. 12th. How did that happen? Wasn't Christmas last week?

It's icy here and snowing gorgeous puffy flakes. We're enjoying a day at home together. The kids are particularly loving the fact that Scott decided it was too icy to go to work. The rule in this homeschool is they get a 'snow day' if Dad can't make it to work. Bonus day off for everyone today!

I decided that Danni's Flutter By Wednesday challenge this week was a great idea on a cold, wintery day.
"This week our challenge is a fun one~ Get Rid of those Winter Blah's--Use Bright Colors with your butterfly, fairy or angel!!"

I love this image of Lea Fairy flying her kite. She looks so carefree. It's so windy here, today would be a good day if it weren't 'don't bother to ask, it's COLD' cold out. brrrrrrrrrr Lea's covered in Spica pen so she's sparkly and her wings are Stardust pen so they SPARKLE!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: bonus days off, Half-birthdays, Cookies & Cream half-cake, squealed gratitude over her new necklace, and Downton Abbey's back!

Stamps: Lea Fairy by PMS
Paper: DCWV Citrus
Extras: Copics, Spica, Stardust, corner rounder

To the Moon

2012-01-11T22:30:00.000-06:00

...and back. That's my favorite line in Guess How Much I Love You. I always teared up when I read it to the kids. So, I had to get the sentiment from Unity, right? I *had* to. And the cute rocket ship? errr, well, how else would you get to the moon?

The colors are for the color challenge over at Lily Pad Cards. The navy ink stamped on silver metallic stock looks really cool in person. It has a muted shine to it.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: back to Logos, warm enough to play outside, laughing with friends, teen crushes, apple orchard fro yo

Stamps: Unity Up Up and Away and To the Bitty Moon
Extras: Stardust pen, Impressabilities Diamond and Stars

On a Roll

2012-01-10T17:29:00.000-06:00

I looked at the Jan 2012 Sketch for You to Try many times. I really liked the sketch, but wasn't sure which stamps would fit it.

Then I saw a Studio G dice stamp and it came together. I combined the sentiment on the Studio G stamp and my new fave funny tacky image from Unity.

A few dashed lines for the 'sheets', the end curled slightly so it stands off the page and I'm done. Now just to decide who should get this errr ummm 'way to go' card. groan

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: my son's guitar teacher, a sick friend is feeling better, a nice long email from a far away friend, great book that will keep me up too late, and cinnamon M&Ms

Stamps: Studio G for sentiment, Unity Crappy Day
Paper: Studio G

PMS Release Day Challenge

2012-01-10T09:04:00.002-06:00

Paper Makeup Stamps released a new set of adorable digis. For the release day blog hop, there was a challenge issued. Be inspired by one of the DT cards. Easy enough. They were all incredible.

I chose Lisa's. I loved her image (so happy I own it now lol), her layout, her colors, and her piecing was off the hook! I copied her layout and chose a muted color scheme. I decided to use Nuts About You, which didn't lend itself to piecing. It's better that way since I couldn't come close to Lisa's skillz.

Lisa, thanks for sharing your beautiful card for me to copy!

Thanks for looking!

This morning I'm grateful for: waking up to cat purring on my feet, coffee in my Mrs. mug, candles' glow, fireplace warmth, Bible time in the dawn

Stamps: PMS Nuts About You
Paper: Ancient DCWV
Extras: Koh-i-noor

New week, newly inked

2012-01-09T15:49:00.000-06:00

My new 12/11 KOM was staring me in the face when I opened Tracy's Eat Sleep Stamp Sketchy Thursday. They seemed to be made for each other.

I also managed to add in Color Throwdown 173. The love theme fit the black/red/silver/grey combo quite nicely.

The tiny hearts in the big heart are all silver Spica. IRL it shines quite a bit more than the camera shows.

TWO challenges in one card. My friend, Terry, is laughing, but I'm proud of me.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: PB oatmeal, friendly nurse on the phone, kids connecting geography and history with Bible stories, all 3 kids working together to make crystals, and 20 lb dog thinking she's a tiny lap dog

Stamps: Unity 12/11 KOM
Extras: Spica, 'Bug and folders Swiss Dots and Heart Blocks

Scrap Stack Diving

2012-01-07T22:30:00.000-06:00

Today I took down our Christmas tree. sniff It's a big job packing each ornament away carefully so they don't break on the trip to the garage rafters and back down in December. We don't have a fancy matchy-matchy tree. Instead, our tree is covered with memory ornaments. Emily had to help me and say goodbye to all her ornaments. This made the job take a bit longer, but was a lot more fun. After the boxes were hauled to the garage and the carpet vacuumed....the room feels bigger! That's my favorite part of the 'pack up the tree' day, the room expansion. lol

For today's scraps, I decided to gamble. Currently, I have my scraps sorted by color family, but I used to just make a pile of them. I'm in the process of trying to better organize the craft room I moved in to umm last summer. Anyway, I found another stack of scraps in a box labeled 'scraps'. Don'tcha love great organization skillz? haha So, I pulled out three pieces, put them on the table, and decided to use two of them.

I split the checked paper in half, but it was already the width of the card. The funky dotty paper is the same size I pulled out, I didn't trim it at all. Meant to be, I guess. Stamps are from Unity 12/11 KOM, but I split stamped the sentiment.

Wow I'm wordy today!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: memories in Christmas ornaments, an 'instant' free room expansion, warm sunny weather, family pizza and movie night, silly diva letting me beat her in XBox dance games

Stamps: Unity 12/11 KOM
Paper: scraps from lost and found pile
Extras: glasses are on pop dots

Fabulous Friend Friday

2012-01-06T15:40:00.000-06:00

My friends and I used to spend many nights at the roller rink. Giant bangs, grape bubble gum, Dr. Pepper lip balm, ah what fun. Last month my kids went to a skate party at that same rink. Weird! I got old, but the rink looks (and smells) exactly the same. This card is for a friend who could shoot the duck like nobody's business.

Thank you, Unity, for making a set that is perfect for those old memories!

I decided to make the skates all girlie and cute. But when I finished I took another look. I think I made the wheels very boobalicious. See it? Luckily, this girlfriend will laugh so I'm sending it anyway.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: friends with memories of long ago good times, cards that also send a laugh, 60* in January!!, random text from Scott, singing with kids during spelling

Stamps: Unity How's It Rollin'?
Extras: Copics, Stardust

Thankful

2012-01-05T22:30:00.000-06:00

A sketchbook altered into a Thankful Journal for the family to jot down gratitudes.

The stones are fitting for our home. We have a small sign that says 'FAMILY' that sits next to a heart shaped glass jar with pebbles in it and some larger rocks we picked up on a family hike a few years ago.

I traced around each letter to make it stand out. I like how earthy it is. Our daily gratitude should be a built in part of our day.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: catching cat and Emily cuddling in a patch of sunlight, clean drinking water, kids telling Bible story and getting it right, being able to give things away, late night email laughs with a far away friend

Paper: DCWV
Extras: ColorBok letters

Similar but different....

2012-01-04T22:30:00.000-06:00

I needed two thank you cards, so I decided to make them at the same time, using the same stamp and papers.

One for my grandparents:

The big circle paper reminds me of an afghan my grandma has had over the couch for as long as I can remember.

One for my parents:

Same paper set, but a little more modern.

As you can see, the layouts are similar, but the cards have a different feel.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: Ty's feeling better, homemade enchilada sauce yum!, cat purring as I reach out to pet her, Christmas Tree lights before dawn, Emily's puffy freckled cheeks

Stamps: Studio G
Paper: DCWV Linen Closet
Extras: The Cat's Pajamas Ribbon Slide CutUps, satin ribbon from stash, popdots

Baby, it's cold!

2012-01-03T22:30:00.000-06:00

CAS card for my friend, Terry, because this Changito stamp made me think of her. This would be Terry all bundled up, shivering, with her hot cocoa...when it's 65*.

Since our windchill this morning was single digit something or other, I thought I should let my cold natured friend know what cold REALLY is. lol Love ya, Terry!!!!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: watching the dog chase blowing leaves, juicy oranges, well insulated home, friends to laugh with, and the 'antifreeze blood' Terry says I have

Stamps: Changito Cocoa, Amy R. Stamps Warm Wishes
Paper: DCWV Animal Crackers
Extras: Studio18 rhinestones, Copics

New week, Newly inked

2012-01-02T22:30:00.000-06:00

Just for fun.....

Terrifically tacky, isn't it? The other sentiment in the set is 'sorry your day was so crappy'. ;-P

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: one last day with whole family, ham & beans, sherpa blanket, kid giggles, sunshine patching through clouds

Stamps: Unity's Crappy Day
Paper: Studio G
Extras: Copics, pop dots

Scrap Stack Diving

2011-12-31T23:00:00.000-06:00

I was happy to have some time to play at my table today. For some reason the kids were busy playing with their new toys. ;-) I decided to play along with MFT's Wed Stamp Club. Here's my take on Sketch #52.

Yeah, my panel's a bit big, but I think you can still see the spirit of the original sketch.

Thanks for looking!

Tonight I'm grateful for: family traditions, a great 2011 for my family, hope for the future, sparkling apple cider, 4 amazing people to kiss at 12

Stamps: Let's Get Physcial WTG
Paper: Studio G (sick of it yet? apparently I'm not lol)
Extras:

Where You Park Your Heart

2011-12-31T11:03:00.000-06:00

I love the scooter image from Unity 3/10 KOM and this sentiment from 11/11 KOM, so I decided to put them together. It makes me happy when stamps from different sets work so well together! They worked very well for the KOM Sketch Challenge, too.

It's New Year's Eve and these five Harts will be parked at home, enjoying party foods and getting our dance groove on. Have a great (and safe!) New Year's Eve. See you in 2012!

Thanks for looking!

This morning I'm grateful for: family New Year's Eve party, books waiting at the library for me, peppermint cream, warm slippers, son's bedhead that makes me laugh

Stamps: March 2010 kit (scooter & heart), November 2011 kit (sentiment)
Paper: Studio G
Extras: Mark-Its, Copics, pop dots, stardust and glaze pens, ancient corner chomper

Fabulous Friend Friday

2011-12-30T08:11:00.000-06:00

My friend, Sandy, is a little down. Is there a better image than a yoyo for a friend that is down?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: snuggles from daughter, warm cat purring, piping hot coffee, another day off with the family, and friends to love

Stamps: I'm Here
Paper: Studio G
Extras: Copics, pop dots

Teacher gifts

2011-12-07T22:00:00.000-06:00

Although we homeschool we have a lot of teachers. These are the gifts the kids made for their Logos teachers. We made bag-a-lopes that had yummy B&BW anti-bac and Kisses. Emily chose and stamped penguins. She loves penguins. All the girl teachers received penguins with bows on their heads, her one boy teacher got a penguin with a bow tie. Devon didn't want to stamp, so he used Christmas dp of his choices for each teacher.

While the younger two were working on the bag-a-lopes, Tyler was making ornaments for their choir teachers. I printed Ode to Joy and he drew the template, then got busy making birds.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: out of the blue 'I miss you' text from husband, craft time with my favorite kids, seeing the faces of grownups surprised with chocolate (they turn into little kids, I tell ya!), cold beer with my man after dinner talking just us two, and listening to Bible study kids and their big thoughts

Stamps: The Stamps of Life
Paper: DCWV
Extras: printed sheet music

Fat Snowman

2011-12-06T22:00:00.000-06:00

Isn't he cute? What's not to love about a roly poly snowdude?

I needed a card for the boys' Spanish teacher. Can you believe I do not HAVE 'feliz navidad' as a sentiment???? Oh, well, the fat snowman is cute. You can't see it in the photo, but I dotted the flakes and edged the snow and snowman in Stardust pen. Little bits of sparkle here and there. Yay for sparkle!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: chocolate chip cookie surprise, candles to light the predawn dim, watching kids with friends, cozy slippers, Christmas lights popping on at dusk

Stamps: Unity

Extras: Stardust pen, MS corner punch, Koh-i-noor

Fabulous Friend Friday

2011-12-02T13:54:00.004-06:00

MFT's Girls Night Out made me think of my friend, Jeri.

We're miles apart, but have been known to tip a glass to, with, and for one another.

So....

Can I get an amen on that?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: perfectly ripe banana, my kids' health, Advent traditions, mocha hot chocolate, and friends across the miles

Stamps: MFT Girls Night Out

Paper: DCWV Linen Closet

Extras: Crystal Lacquer

Heartfelt

2011-12-01T07:42:00.003-06:00

Diva had to send a thank you note. She wrote it herself, including her 5 year old spellings. Luckily, it was to someone who loves her and can read the love behind the misspellings. lol I thought this cover card worked perfectly.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: hanging out with open-hearted teens, girl time with a good friend, laughter watching a group of little Kers playing with their 9th grade hero, candles on a grey morning, Bible study that whacked me on the head with what I needed to hear

Stamps: Studio G

Paper: stash

Extras: ribbons from stash

Fabulous Friend Friday

2011-11-28T07:46:00.005-06:00

I've never ridden a bicycle for two, but loved this image. This card is for a friend fighting cancer. There's some pink, but not too much. It's crazy bright and I hope it makes her smile.

The handle bars are sparkly and the center of the wheels are blingy.....I would ride a cute bike like this!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: time with my family, totally gorgeous weather, getting some yard work done together while NOT freezing lol, tether ball, glowing candles

Stamps: The Craft's Meow

Paper: DCWV Nana's Kids

Extras: Copic, Spica, ? rhinestones, ? flowers and brads, lace from grandma's attic

Thankful

2011-11-23T17:18:00.003-06:00

I found this little sentiment stamp in the $1 bin. Today I used it to make a Thanksgiving card for my man. I am 'ever thankful' for him.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: sunshine peeking through clouds after days of gloom, needing two bags to take home library books, cat curled up in Diva's lap purring, peppermint candles, Bible study sisters

Stamps: Studio G

New week, Newly inked

2011-11-14T19:54:00.000-06:00

My nephew was promoted to yellow belt. Of course, PI guy to the rescue.

I popped up his foot and hand so his sidekick looks a bit more real. I love the texture on his gi, it's pretty close to the real deal.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: time at the park, playground all to ourselves, Toffee Latte, Diva playing librarian, fun laughing during spelling time

Stamps: MFT PI Karate Kid

Paper: DCWV

Scrap Stack Diving

2011-11-12T14:33:00.002-06:00

Simple birthday card for a friend:

Lots of sparkle....'cause a girl needs cake AND sparkle!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: Toffee Mocha yum!, sunshine, all the colors of fall leaves, laughing with kids, and snuggling Diva watching Project Runway

Stamps: Studio G

Paper: scraps! yay

Extras: Ribbon from a box of chocolates, Spica

New week, Newly inked

2011-10-10T11:56:00.001-05:00

When I saw this Unity Itty Bitty set I *had* to have it. The sentiment cracks me up because it is so me.

As if the mismatched socks weren't crazy enough, I had to go use a bunch of busy papers. I'm on the fence, one minute I like it, then the next minute I think it's too much. Ah well, it was fun!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: windows open....in Oct!, pumpkin spice creamer, wonderful husband who bought it for me as a surprise (thanks, honey!), our library as I could not afford to keep the kids in books without it, and my family who does not care if their socks are matched lol

Stamps: Unity Matching Socks

Paper: DCWV Citrus

Extras: Copics, rhinestones and silver squares from ?

Scrap Stack Diving

2011-10-08T11:50:00.001-05:00

A very sweet friend of ours is celebrating her 11th birthday. She likes pink and monkeys. Of course I had to use my go to monkey dude.

Oh, and some adorable Paul Frank lip gloss went with it. See why we get along so well?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: fun morning of football, Ty's team won, incredibly warm weather for Oct., found a brand new spelling game at a tailgate sale for $1, licorice bites

Stamps: Changito Bday

Paper: scraps

Extras: Koh-i-noor, Copics, Stardust pen

New week, Newly inked

2011-09-26T11:52:00.000-05:00

Emily is finishing up her first soccer season. She had a blast. She was the only girl on her team, but her coach is a girl which she thought was very cool. This is her card to say thank you to Coach Laura for a fun season.

The jerseys are bright blue and lime green. I had to use this super bright paper as the colors are an almost perfect match. I used Mojo Monday 208, which was a great fit for the little thank you card we needed. Nice when it all comes together so easily, isn't it?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: great soccer coaches who love kids, bouncing diva excited to do math, 'I need a hug' from the 13 year old, Buffy on DVD, and coffee in my Mrs. mug left by my Mr.

Stamps: Studio G Ditto 4 You (new rubber from Studio G, love it!)

Paper: DCWV Citrus (super bright and fun papers)

Fabulous Fortieth!

2011-09-09T07:40:00.000-05:00

Yes, today's my 40th birthday. No, I'm not at all upset about it. My friend, Shawn, says I get to 'finally join the big girls' club' and I'm pretty excited to join all those lovely ladies!

For my 'BIG' day, I asked to celebrate on the beach with people I love. I'm currently on the beach in FL with my husband, kids, and my parents. Life is GOOD!

Today, in honor of my birthday, I'm going to make a list of 40 people who mean the world to me. I'm SO grateful to have these wonderful people in my life. Anybody else old enough to remember listening (and tape recording) Casey Kasem's Weekly Top 40???? Here's mine.....

1 - Scott, my forever. My husband, very best friend, father to my children, the one I want to share everything with.

2, 3, 4 - Tyler, Devon, Emily If you've visited here before, you already know that I love these three people more than I have words for. They bless my life immensely. They grow and change and challenge me. I love being a mom and I LOVE that these are the people who call me that. My Diva and MITs are total awesomesauce.

5, 6 - My parents. They made me as a person and helped me become the woman I am today. I am grateful for their guidance. I love that they are so involved with my kids.

7, 8 - My inlaws. They gave me a wonderful gift in the man I married. I must give them credit for him. He is a good man, in very large part, due to the guidance of his parents.

9, 10, 11, 12 - My grandparents. One grandfather is waiting in heaven, but his love is very much a part of my life today. The other three are still here on earth. All of my grandparents are/were godly people, valuing faith and family above all else. Because of them, my family tree has deep roots and is solid and strong.

13, 14, 15, 16 - My brother, his wife, and kids. My baby brother is awesome. We fought like cats and dogs as kids, but I always knew he had my back. We no longer fight (we're much too old now lol), but I know if I need him he will be there. My sister-in-law and nephews add to the joy. Much like ice cream is good, but better with hot fudge, my brother is great, but even better with his lovely family.

17, 18, 19, 20, 21 - Scott's sister, her husband, their kids. Scott's sis and I were friends in jr. high. That's how Scott and I met. I'm eternally grateful for that. Her husband makes me laugh and her children are pretty fun to be around, too.

22 - My aunt, Nancy. She's my mom's younger sister, but my friend. I call her 'aunt' out of respect, but call her 'friend' because it's the truth. She used to babysit me and now invites my kids to come hang out for the day. When I was a kid, I thought she was super cool. Now my kids think she's super cool. She's even taken a day off of work to go to the animal park with us and some friends and *those* kids think she's super cool. Seriously, how much more incredible can you get? My aunt, my friend, she just rocks!

23 - My dear friend, Charlotte. A true gift from God. Our sons played basketball together years ago and we met at practice. That basketball season is long over, but Charlotte's still a huge part of my life. I'm grateful to have her friendship. I truly don't have words for how incredible this woman is. You know how some people just make you smile when you think of them? That, to me, is Charlotte. Truly a gift! My son calls her 'other mother' and I don't mind, that's how much she's loved.

24, 25, 26, 27 - Charlotte's husband and kids. I love them all. Her husband is a great man and her kids I love. My husband and kids adore the entire family. Rare that two families of five ALL get along and enjoy each other, but we do. I don't hang out with her family because she's my friend, I GET to hang out with her family because she's my friend.

28 - Amanda. She just makes me laugh. The crazy fun friend who gets you into trouble, but you don't mind because you're having so much fun? That's her. If we need to get serious, we can (and do), but Amanda just brings honest pure joy into my life. Our husbands worry that one of them will get both of us because we both say 'I can see benefits to having sister wives'. I think both guys are scared. Scott says I'm enough, two of us would be too much, he would never win. That's probably true!

29, 30 - Mark and Neka We met in high school. I convinced him that if he asked her out, she would say yes. He did, she did, a few years later he asked a more important question and she said yes to that one, too. lol When Scott and I married, Mark and Neka lived in another state. They surprised us and came home to be at our wedding. They still live in a different state, but we clear our calendar when they're in town. I count them as close friends, even with the distance. I sure wish they would get transferred to MO, but am very grateful for the internet and once a year face to face visits.

31-37 - Jeri, Terry, Sandy, Chris, Kristie, Tasha, Char - My PSFs. Girls, we've shared laughter, tears, talked crafts and hooker heels, commiserated over kids growing up too fast and teased each other. Finding emails from you is a highlight of my day.

38 - Ellen. She's just a tiny bit older than I am and just a bit farther on the Mom road. She's my 'what do I do now' girl. Her advice (especially homeschool advice) and wisdom have been very beneficial more than once. I am fairly confident that I benefit more from this friendship than she does and I'm very grateful for her.

39 - Karen. One of our pastors, but one of my friends, too. She can guide on spiritual matters or we can share a cup of coffee (iced mochas, preferably) and talk about our kids. She's such a gentle soul. As a woman, wife, mother, she inspires me to be better. As a pastor, she's taught me immensely and I'm very grateful for her guidance. She knows history like no one I've ever met and can instantly give details of how/why things happened without sounding like she's teaching you... even when she is. lol Then we can go right in to talking about the latest books we've read or movies we've watched.

Last but most definitely not least....

40 - Denise We've been friends since 5th grade. We no longer have sleepovers or cruise around town looking for boys, but when we get together dinner is long and filled with laughter. I am so glad she's STILL in my life. She's just slightly older than I am, but I know she'll roll her eyes when I say she's my OLDEST friend. Love this girl. She was my friend when I was a gawky preteen with bad hair and she's still my friend when I'm an awkward 'old chick' with greying hair. How blessed am I to have a lifelong friend?

Of course, I have many more people in my life I value. I am a blessed woman, indeed.

Fabulous Forever Friend

2011-08-12T18:30:00.000-05:00

Today's our anniversary. My husband will be embarrassed if I gush. I will simply say that I am SO very grateful for him. Scott's my Forever.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for still being in love with my very best friend. Scott's still the one I want to hang out with, sharing the bigs and littles of life. He makes me laugh, holds me tight, lets me be me, and loves me in spite of all my flaws.

Stamps: SnSS Knight in Shining Armor and Princess

Paper: DCWV Once Upon a Time

Extras: Copics, Koh-i-Noor

Stamps for sale

2011-07-14T16:46:00.022-05:00

Stamps for sale, stamps for sale. Anybody thinking of the book Caps for Sale?

Rabbit on scooter with mouse friend hitching a ride on the front $3

Inky Antics wood mounted rubber stamp $3

Set of 3 Winnie-the-Pooh stamps $10
slightly stained, but rubber is still in good condition

Wood mounted Rubber Stampede stamp of a cardinal on a pine branch $3

Wood mounted Darcie's Bear dressed as a clown rubber stamp $2

Wood mounted Darcie's bear holding cupcake rubber stamp $2

Hero Arts Old-Fashioned Bear with Cub wood mounted rubber stamp $2

Butterfly stamp $2

Cut & Fold Template $2

American Traditional Designs Cut & Fold Small Chain Template
Place on paper, cut lines with craft knife, fold for intricate pattern
Very pretty accent for cards or layouts, especially with double sided paper

Set of 4 wood mounted rubber stamps $1
Cute mini flowers, great accent

Blurry pic, but Wood mounted pig stamp rubber stamp says 'oink oink let's do lunch' $1

JustRite Stampers Baking Centers for 2 3/8 stamper $3
*will also work with acrylic block with Tack n Peel
set of 6
Christmas Cookies
Fudge
Gourmet Hot Cocoa (with cup)
Hand Dipped Chocolates
Life is Sweet Enjoy a Treat (with sugar bag behind words)
Sending a little love this holiday season (on a heart)
Brand new, never used

Martha Stewart Circle Cutter $10
cuts circles from 1 in to 5 1/2 in, in 1/16 in increments
three double-sided blades store in handle of cutter

used once...great idea, but not for me

Stampendous Mesh Border clear stamp $3
Very good condition

Paper Makeup Stamps bare rubber sentiment stamp $2
Precious and few are friends like you!
Brand new, never used

Gruffies rubber stamp of bear with lilacs $5

Imaginations stamp of boy with dog $5
wood mount is stained, but stamp is in great condition

Buyer pays shipping. I'll ship Priority in the smallest (most economical) package possible. Paypal only, please.

If you want any, shoot me an email at the five harts at yahoo dot com (except in email form and without the spaces).

SU! for sale

2011-07-14T15:34:00.020-05:00

Time for some stamps to find new homes.

All I Have Seen (mounted, but unused) $10

Beyond the Basics $5

Elegant Ornaments $10

Happy Bear $3

Hedgehog Happiness (unmounted) $15

It's the Thought (new) $15

Little Shapes $5

Seasonal Images $5

Short Sayings $5

Snow Angels $10

Two-step Stampin' Mini Messages $10

Two-step Stampin' Scribbles $5

Buyer pays shipping. I'll ship Priority in the smallest (most economical) package possible. Paypal only, please.

If you want any, shoot me an email at the five harts at yahoo dot com (except in email form and without the spaces).

Happy 5th, Em!

2011-07-12T15:35:00.003-05:00

Should be NO doubt who this card is for:

Couldn't be more sparkly! Her wings and dress are Spica, the fairy herself is covered in Stardust. My camera won't capture it, but she SHINES.

Yes, purple, sparkles, fairy, must be Emily's. As of 11:07, my littlest one is five. She was super excited when she woke up this morning. She has loved answering the phone all day, receiving her birthday messages. She's reading her emails, too. When I said 'hey, you read the whole thing' she said 'yes, Mom, I'm five now'. lol

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm so very grateful for my little diva. She's truly a gift to our family. Her smile lights up a room (or a stage lol), she's smart and silly, beyond 'girly' and loves to wrestle her brothers. We all love this little person so much!

3D Thursday

2011-06-23T15:31:00.010-05:00

I've had this tin forEVER! It came with some makeup in it years ago. Emily has now taken it as one of her many crayon holders. It's the perfect size, but not too cute. I decided to fix that.

For the outside I cut a strip of shimmery dp and used a floral vine wrapped 'E' rub on....just in case anyone else around here wanted a cute crayon box.

The inside I cut a strip of paper to cover the window and attached my fave PI artist. I also stamped off a few more for Emily to color.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: Diva's sense of style, warm brownies, French press, new socks, the smell of crayons and the happy childhood memories

Stamps: MFT PI You Color My World

Paper: MM Wedding

Extras: Michael's Rubon, Primas, Spicas

Just because

2011-06-22T13:03:00.004-05:00

I love surprising the kids, even with little, truly nothing special, but out of the blue surprises. I really love how truly appreciative they are when I do surprise them with something. Today I told them we were going to the library and we did, dropping off the full bag of books we just picked up *Monday* and leaving with another *full* bag. (Thank You, God, for libraries!) Then I drove to Arbys and got Jamocha shakes. They were happy. Then we hit Little Caesars for a pizza. They were happy. Then we went to a picnic table by the river, ate our pizza, slurped our shakes, chatted and just enjoyed our gorgeous weather. They were super happy. We had a lovely hour, then went for a short stroll along the river and even spotted a wild chicken. For under $10, I'm a rockstar mom today. LOVE that!

Today's card is a very simple, almost one layer, monogrammed note. 'M' for Michelle, Mom, Mrs. Hart, whichever! haha

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: fun outings, full library bags, clouds blowing by, driveway full of teen boys, the feel of new carpet on my toes

Stamps: American Crafts Majestic set

Extras: ? rhinestones, SU! Night of Navy ink, Stardust pen

Happy Summer!

2011-06-21T13:47:00.004-05:00

Happy 1st Day of Summer! Here in STL were in the upper 90s a couple of weeks ago. Today? Upper 70s. Happy Summer indeed. haha

Anyone else feel the need to read Horton Hears a Who? I love that book! This PMS elephant reminds me of Horton, so I think I know what Em's bedtime story will be.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: hot chocolate oatmeal, cute new coffee cup, cool breezes, all three kids listening to a read aloud, new Prismas

Stamps: PMS

Paper: Lily Bee Designs Picket Fence

Extras: MM brads

New week, Newly inked

2011-06-20T18:27:00.007-05:00

I've been gone a month. Yikes! Where did the month go? We finished up the school year, moved the kids' bedrooms around, painted two rooms and got new carpet in three, had VBC, and started spending time at the park and pool. I think I figured out where the month went. ;-D In the process of shifting the kids' bedrooms, I'm moving my craft area to a new room. Of course, I'm finding old/new treasures that I've forgotten about and deciding to release some things. I'm determined for everything to have a place and to not hang on to things 'just because'. We'll see how long my determination holds. lol

Today's card is super simple, but gets the point across.

I LOVE this sentiment. Thanks to my friend, Terry, for alerting me that Michael's has some new Studio G sentiments!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: gorgeous weather, spicy black bean chicken, 4 year old starting to read on her own, carrying a HUGE stack of books out of the library, and my wonderful husband

Stamps: Inkadinkadoo Floral Flourishes, Studio G sentiment

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2011-05-19T07:04:00.006-05:00

Happy 61st Birthday to my momma! We are blessed that today is her free day and we can have lunch together. I wanted to take her out for lunch, but she declined. She said that lunch out wouldn't give her enough time with me and my kids and that she would be happier with a bologna sandwich at my house and more time together. Awwww, see why I think she's awesome?

Those that know me know I do NOT do bologna BLECH! and even if I did, I can't do just a sandwich for a birthday! haha So, we're having shrimp quesadillas, taco soup, and a 4 layered marble cake with chocolate cream cheese frosting. Oh yeah. Time with my mom and a delicious lunch, I'm so looking forward to it!

Enough food talk, you came for craft talk, so on to Mom's card. When I saw this little PI artist, I thought she was adorable and I wanted her. Then I realized that I *had* to get her. My mom is an art teacher. Justification at its finest!

Mojo Monday 191 worked perfectly with this cutie and I decided to turn it into a joy fold. Pardon my fingertip, but I could not get the little flap to lay flat for the photo.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for an afternoon with one of my very favorite people. My mom is a gift and a treasure. She truly adds color to my life.

Stamps: MFT PI

Paper: DCWV Sweet Stack

Extras: Koh-i-noor, SU scallop circle punch

New week, Newly inked

2011-05-09T22:00:00.001-05:00

My daughter had her dance recital Friday night. She loves, no, make that LOVES her dance teacher. This is the card we gave her to say thanks for a great year.

Em chose the papers and image, then helped with the adhesive and put the star rhinestone on the flower. She insisted the belt needed to be pink. I wasn't sure, but it works!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: AC, kids who beg to go to the library just two days after our last visit, laughs with a girlfriend, hugs from Devon 'just because I want a hug', and our fabulous dance teacher!

Stamps: MFT Girls Rule WTG

Paper: DCWV la Creme

Extras: Copic, Koh-i-Noor, unknown rhinestone flower

Scrap Stack Diving

2011-05-07T22:00:00.001-05:00

Happy 3rd birthday to my youngest nephew!

I traced all the 3's with gold Spica. You can't see it in the photo, but it's obvious in real life. My nephew's learning his numbers and I know he'll pick them out.

Jake likes tractors right now. I am not a country girl and I had to go searching. This is the big scooper from Wee Tees. Colored in green it looks sort of John Deere-ish, so I went with it. On a dirt brown cake it works, right?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: time with my family, brief cooling rain, white wine, dark chocolate, my sweet nephew

Stamps: tractor from Wee Tees, Studio G numbers, TSOL cake2build

Paper: all scraps

Extras: Copic, Koh-i-Noor, Spica

Fabulous Friend Friday

2011-05-06T22:00:00.000-05:00

My fabulous friend today is my fabulous mom. She's awesome! I am so blessed that my mother is also my friend. This is her Mother's Day card.
Not my favorite, but Mom loves yellow roses and Sunday should be all about her, right? I covered the image with Crystal Effects and let it curl up while it dried. A few pop dots on the corners kept the bowed shape.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: fun dance recital, pomegranate fro-yo after, friends who love my kids, parents who are always there for me, and My Mom, Best EVAH!

Stamps: Repeat Impressions

Paper: DCWV la Creme

Extras: Copics, Crystal Effects, ribbon from M's, MFT die

HB, Devon!

2011-04-25T10:07:00.000-05:00

Eleven years ago I met another young person who stole my heart. For those keeping track, yes, we just had Ty's birthday. Tyler was 2 years, 2 weeks, and 2 days old when he became a big brother. Devon was Ty's BEST late birthday present ever.

The funniest part of Devon's birth story is that we ran over a nail and got an instantly flat tire right before turning into the hospital's parking lot. My husband was so afraid I would have the baby right then that he drove on the rim to get me to the door. His dad tells him he was the best reason to get a flat and was well worth the risk of ruining the rim. I think it's a nice way of saying I was way too big to carry the mile or so across the parking lot. haha

For Devon's card I used his favorite color, green, with a hard to see brown border to mimic the cake. TSOL cake2build was perfect. This little cake stand resembles our glass cake stand that was my grandmother's and is always the seat of honor for birthday cakes. Dev's cake was chocolate fudge with dark chocolate icing. It has to be a family recipe icing as well or it's not a 'birthday' cake. Picky kid! I covered the top of the cake stand in Crystal Lacquer so it's more glass like. I loved how the candles almost look like an 11.

Devon shares my Changito love. The monkey (or two) always make him laugh, so Changito bday had to be there somewhere.

When he opened the card he started laughing and said 'hahaha there's monkeys' and had to explain to my mil why he was laughing....'they're always silly, Grandma'.

Thanks for looking!

Today I am oh so very grateful for my bub. He loves to laugh and makes me laugh daily. He has a memory that is scary good, which is very helpful to this momma. He's smarter than I am (yikes) and very sensitive to others. He's always kind to those younger or smaller or elderly and is Emily's favorite book reader because he brings so much life to the story. He's a super kid and going to be a great man one day.

Stamps: Changito Bday, TSOL cake2build, Unity Going Retro

Paper: all scraps

Extras: Crystal Lacquer, Kohinoor, Spica, Stardust

New week, Newly inked

2011-04-11T22:00:00.000-05:00

I love Changito and when I found this little cutie in the clearance aisle at Hobby Lobby I just couldn't resist.

She has purple shoes and pink lips to be me and he has blue eyes to be my guy.

Inside another new stamp from Joann's $1 spot. Hooray for cute and cheap!

I thought it fit the bright card. And, of course, it's very true of my main squeeze.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: migraine left, Diva watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse with both the dog AND the cat on her tiny lap, 'feeling better?' text from Scott, chat time with my friend, glowing green grass after a rain

Stamps: Changito Love Balloon, Inkadinkadoo Spring mini

Paper: DCWV Sweet Stack with glitter yay!

Extras: Koh-i-noor, Color Box chalk ink

A Teenager!

2011-04-09T16:06:00.001-05:00

GAH! As of 4:06, I am officially a mom of a teenager. Thirteen years ago I met this amazing little person. Today he looks me in the eye, often sports a fauxhawk and his upper lip is fuzzy. The years have flown, but have been wonderful. Ty's still amazing and I love the man he's becoming.

For my young rocker:

The guitar is so detailed!

Very hard to see, but the black has a repeating guitar pattern.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm oh so grateful for my MIT (man in training). He blesses my life.

Stamps: Gina K Designs Live Life Loud

Paper: All scrap stack

Extras: Versamark, silver sticky doodads from ???? (had them forever), numbers from Target $1 spot

Fabulous Friend Friday

2011-04-08T22:00:00.000-05:00

I have lots of cousins, but Kathryn is closest to me in age and we've always been 'cus-friends'. When Scott and I got together he said we could have been sisters. I am so proud to say 'My cousin has written a book'. She sent me a note to say her book had been published. I sent her a note back 'I'm so proud of you'. I knew I would read her book. I just wasn't sure if I would be able to honestly say 'I liked it' and figured if I didn't, I had my bases covered already. lol I got the book, I read it, and....it's GOOD! So I made her this card to say 'I'm so proud of you, I read it and it's good'. I used Mojo Monday Sketch 182 as my jumping off point. The card is glittery and sparkly and just FUN. whew I'm so glad I can say 'your book is good' and be truthful. ;-) So, I AM proud of her for going for it and her book IS good. It's The Farmer's Story. It's very neat for me since it's set partly in my town and many of the details are from our childhood. Sharing those details here would bore you, I'm sure, but made the story extra special for me. Her story itself is very good even without that life connection. I truly am very proud of KJ!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: lifelong cus-friends, my son's friend sleeping over tonight (great kid I'm so glad he's in Ty's life), day off school, gorgeous weather, watching the cat try to kill a tennis ball

Stamps: Verve Beautiful You

Paper: DCWV Sweet Stack and I think Spring from years ago from stash

Extras: Red line tape, Studio G glitter, Darice gems

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T22:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! I love a day devoted to telling people how much I love them.

Last week, Scott looked at our credit card bill and said 'honey, do you realize you've spent over $80 on stamps this month?' 'ummm, did I?' ~whistling innocently~ Anyway, all of the cards I made for the family for today used new stamps. Since the big H-card store charges $4-5 each....I made QUITE a dent in that $80 on the CC in January, right? Right??? lol 'take up card making and you'll never have to buy a card again...think of the money you'll save' BAHAHAHA

Unfortunately, Scott had to work today. This was waiting in his truck to start his morning.

One of Emily's nicknames is SweetPea, making this stamp perfect for her. The card is purple, of course, and the little pea has glittery lip gloss (because my little pea always does).

Devon loves puns and witty sayings and his favorite salad is fresh spinach and mushrooms aka Popeye's a Fun-gi Salad around here, so Fun-gi for him.

Ty warned me not to put too many hearts on Scott's card....some nonsense about 'not manly', so for my rocker M.I.T. (man in training which is house-speak for 'you might be looking me in the eye, but you're not grown yet'):

Yes, I had to put a heart on it! He said one wasn't too bad. ;-D

And for the love of my life:

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: all of my darling Valentines, loads of chocolate, deep red roses from my husband, the single white rose Em's daddy gave her, her look of joy when she realized the rose was for HER, and chocolate covered strawberries from MY daddy

Stamps: Punny Fruits & Veggies from Sweet n Sassy Stamps, I Dig You, You're a Real Fun-gi and Shine On! from Unity, Live Loud guitar from Imaginisce, heart and 'you rock' from The Stamps of Life

Scrap Stack Diving

2011-02-12T13:44:00.000-06:00

It's the anniversary of our engagement. This is the card I gave Scott:

Seventeen years ago, my sweet darling planned a very secretive and elaborate night leading up to The Question. Today my parents are taking the kids and we're headed out for a quick lunch. lol The plans aren't as 'big', but I would still say yes today. I try not to pat myself on the back often, however I chose my husband very well. He's my best friend and my favorite grown up in the world. He makes me laugh, makes me feel secure, makes my heart beat faster, and is a fantastic father to our children.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm oh so very grateful for Scott.

Stamps: DoodleFactory

New week, Newly inked

2011-02-07T22:00:00.001-06:00

The House That Stamps Built has a CASE challenge. When I saw the gorgeous card we were to CASE, I knew immediately I wanted to use this new Repeat Impressions rose stamp.

My Repeat Impressions F2 Case Challenge card:

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: 'Bucks caramel coffee, sneak attacking Devon and covering him with kisses, Emily giggling so hard she was crying, clean drinking water, and our taxes are done!

Stamps: Repeat Impressions
Paper: MM Wedding and Echo Park Be Mine
Extras: Smooch, Stardust pen

No winter lasts forever

2011-01-26T12:33:00.003-06:00

Verve's Viva la Verve Sketch 4 Today is a grey day here, so it's a good time for a bright card with a reminder that spring *will* come.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: all four seasons, tater tots, hanging with smart tweens, fluffy rugs, and Diet Dr. Pepper

Stamps: Verve's Beautiful You

Paper: MM Wedding

Extras: SU! Green Galore ink, unknown flowers and brads, EK Success punch

Keep me in your heart

2011-01-25T22:00:00.000-06:00

Verve's Viva la Verve Weekly Sketch 3 has two stripes, which I decided to make glitter strips.
Emily saw it and said 'oooooh, glitter'. I love this quote from my favorite wise bear.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: good morning kisses, kids who love going to the library, sunshine, glitter, and my tiny ballerina

Stamps: Verve's Hundred Hearts

Paper: MM Wedding

Extras: ColorBox Chalk ink, Studio G glitter, red line tape

MFTWSC3

2011-01-24T15:00:00.003-06:00

For MFT WSC Sketch 3 I used this image that looks like an old seed packet. I stayed with MFT colors, well maybe I should say MFT Plus because I added red.

This card shimmers so much in real life. I traced each panel and colored the hearts with Stardust. The word and flowers are colored with Smooch. I love how much sparkle and shimmer this card has.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: watching birds in the morning light, the imagination of a preschooler, snuggly dog, warm toes, hot chocolate

Stamps: MFT Sow Seeds of Love by Annie LaPointe

Paper: scraps

Extras: Copics, Queen & Co pearls, Sakura glaze pen, Smooch, Stardust pen

Scrap Stack Diving

2011-01-22T22:00:00.000-06:00

Glenda at Papers, Scissors & Rocks is having her 100th challenge. This one was easy, just use Miss Glenda's favorite color, RED, somewhere on your card. I decided to go CAS and was inspired by my new coffee cup crush, Connect with Love Mug.It took me longer to find this hot cocoa stamp than I care to admit, thankyouverymuch, but I'm so glad I did.

The heart is colored with red Spica, the heart and marshmallows are colored with Inkssentials white pen for more oomph in person than shows in the photo.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: safe drive to see extended family, Lambert's throwed rolls, high thread count sheets, healthy kids, and glistening snow

Stamps: Snag 'Em hot chocolate, Amy R Warm & Cozy for sentiment

Paper: scrap pile

Extras: ColorBok hearts, Copic, Inkssential white, Spica red, ScorPal

Fabulous Friend Friday

2011-01-21T22:00:00.000-06:00

This is not my card. This is the card my wonderful daughter made HER fabulous friend who is turning 4 this weekend. Em was very serious about her work. She wanted sheep...her friend's favorite animal. I don't have a sheep stamp (I was surprised by that), so she settled on the cake. She did insist on white card stock 'because it's the color of a sheep'. I cut the middle strip, but Em did everything else.
I wrote the birthday message, but Em signed her name and decorated the inside.

I loved watching how much fun she had and I love that she has a fabulous friend that she loves this much!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: friends young and old, homemade veggie soup (single digit cold here), fleece slippers, purring cat, and a weekend with family

Fun is Good!

2011-01-19T22:00:00.002-06:00

Tonight's theme is PJ Night at Logos. Always a fun night as kids and adults wear pjs and slippers to church. Mojo Monday week 174 was a perfect fit for this fun quote from Dr. Seuss. And for Dr. Seuss, what could be better than this crazy paper? It's busy, but fun.

I love all the sparkle on this card. The entire 'ribbon' from the sketch is purple rhinestones. The buttons have rhinestones. The chunky letters in the quote are filled in with Spica and Stardust pens.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: fun night at church, fresh popcorn, making it home before the slick snow hit, a friend's beautifully big pregnant belly, watching Em with her friends giggling

Stamps: Verve Beautiful You

Paper: Recollections Purple Daze line

Extras: Spica pen, Stardust pen, Copic, MM buttons, Crystal Stickers rhinestones

Delight in the Lord

2011-01-18T22:00:00.003-06:00

I love this sketch and I know I'll be using it again and again. It's Viva la Verve January Week 2.
I wanted to use this cute Prima as my 'bow'. It's a happy accident that the flower was a bit too big and covered up the top of the ribbon which makes it look like a flower.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: back to dance class for Em, hot chocolate on a cold day, the boys *almost* beat me at Bananagrams, Devon hugged me after math 'just because' and thanked me for teaching him sniff sniff, and Yankee Candles creating a warm sanctuary for reading time

Stamps: Verve Psalm 37:4

Paper: from the scrap stack

Extras: Prima flower, SU! Filigree brad, MFT die

New week, Newly inked

2011-01-17T22:00:00.000-06:00

I just got a few monsters from PMS. I love this guy, he cracks me up. I wanted to work with him today and when I picked him up, he just screamed 'need coffee' to me. Okay, so maybe that was just me because I left my cup upstairs, but I went with it.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: hazelnut coffee (even reheated lol), Sunrise Sandwiches, my Nook, fun history lesson with the kids, and Dr. King

Stamps: Spike from PMS, sentiment from MFT's Coffee with Flopsey

Paper: DCWV

Extras: Studio 18 rhinestones

MFT Wed. Stamp Club

2011-01-11T19:56:00.004-06:00

Yes, last Wednesday's Stamp Club. Better late than never, right?

I found Smooch at Michaels (with coupon, of course) and really wanted to use it. So I pulled out an old set and had fun.

While super hard to photograph, Smooch makes these cupcakes look oh so yummy! Now I'm craving cupcakes. Lucky for me, tomorrow is Em's Half-Birthday, so we *have* to have cake.

Thanks for looking and happy 1/11/11 day!

Today I'm grateful for: gorgeous snowy day, Emily's feeling better, 40% off Smooch lol, Starbucks Vanilla infused coffee (oh.my.caffeine is this good!), Tyler saying 'you were right, Mom' aka all the planets have aligned and I should buy a lottery ticket ;-)

Stamps: MFT What's Up, Cupcake and WTG Top Shelf for sentiment

Paper: BG Bittersweet

Extras: MFT oval die, EK Success punch, and my new love--Smooch

Scrap Stack Diving with Mojo

2011-01-08T22:00:00.000-06:00

Mojo Monday 172 threw me. I wanted to leave a lot of white space, but just couldn't make it work. So, I quit fighting the card and went with it. Some flocked black and yellow swoopy paper will have to stand for 'white'.
"No winter lasts forever, No spring skips its turn." I love this quote.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: nachos, playoff games, cold Bud Light, my husband, laughing with friends. (Guess what I did today? lol)

Stamps: Beautiful You & Believe

Paper: DCWV La Creme scraps

Extras: MFT ribbon, Marvy punch, Studio 18 butterflies, SU! ink

3D Thursday

2011-01-06T19:02:00.003-06:00

I wanted a small journal to use for tracking my exercise efforts. I had a notebook that was the right size, but the cover was just not cute enough. So, I fixed that...

Cute, right? If I do use the journal and I do exercise, I'll be as cute in my yoga pants as Who's That Girl here. My current shoes are grey. I've picked some out that are black with hot pink trim. I split the difference here and colored hers grey with pink trim.

It's hard to see in the pic, but I drew in my cross necklace to make it 'ME'. I've worn this necklace every day since Aug. 12, 1995 when Scott gave it to me as my wedding gift. WTG just wouldn't be me without it. Mine's not as big as this one, but I'm no artist. lol

The negative of the banner on the front worked perfectly to frame a motivating sentiment on the inside cover.

And the first page has another fave sentiment from the set.

Of course Prince says it never left, but I still think it's fun.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: time with my best friend, toffee latte, warm home, old black & white movies, Falsies mascara

Stamps: MFT Let's Get Physical

Paper: DCWV Posies, MM Raspberry Small Dots

Extras: Spica, Copics, MFT dies

New week, Newly inked

2011-01-03T22:00:00.000-06:00

Actually, today's a two-fer. I have waaaaaaaaaaaay too many stamps that have never seen ink. I need to use them or lose them, so you'll be seeing a lot of new stuff....and not just on Mondays.

I am a coffee addict, so when I saw TCP's Coffee Chat on sale I snapped it up. Finally I used it. We won't talk about how long ago I brought it home, okay?

This little cutie was sitting on my husband's travel cup this morning. I pieced the cup and wish I could find one this cute! The colors are wonky, but the cup is lime green with blue, white, and orange circles.

The inside sentiment was a big factor in my decision to buy the set.

I say this to my husband. I drink coffee with cream. I will drink it black if that's my only option, but it's not my preferred way. My husband is absolutely the cream in my coffee. I *could* go through life solo, but it's much better with him in it.

We're back to school work today after a long break. While the break is nice, it's always an adjustment to get back to our routine. Tyler really struggled with his math today. Tonight I snuck this little guy into his book.

The inside says 'Algebra gets easier. Even if it doesn't, the year is half over.' I think (hope!) he'll laugh. Yes, Changito's hair is green. Ty spikes his hair and often sprays it with colors. His current favorite is green. It's the little details that my young artist will pick up on.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: getting back to our regular routine, gorgeous frost in the morning sun, Scrabble Slam, red tea, and holding hands with Scott while watching the news

Stamps: Changito!, TSOL banners4all

Paper: more scraps

Extras: EK Success punch, Copics

A new start!

2011-01-01T22:00:00.002-06:00

After a nice long break (miss me? lol), it was sooooo nice to get back to the craft table and just play.

Verve's first sketch challenge of the year was perfect for my first Scrap Stack Diving card of the year.

I wanted to use purple, so I rummaged in the stack and found a green and blue that I liked with the purple. I grunged up the blue a bit by inking my 'Bug folder. You can't see it in the photo, but the center of the flower has black stickles. It's subtle, but very cool in person.

"Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul" This card is for Em's ballet teacher. Of course Emily loves purple and flowers and glitter. When she saw the card she squealed as only a 4 year old diva can and said 'good job, Mom, I like this one'. snicker I guess she hasn't liked others? hahaha

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: time with extended family, another holiday with my grandpa and grandma, silly kids, amazing husband, and none of my friends/family were hit by the twisters

Stamps: Verve's Beautiful You

Paper: from the stack yay! Small pieces, yes, but pieces!

Extras: 'Bug folder, Stickles, BG pearls, MFT die

Scrap Stack Diving

2010-11-20T22:00:00.000-06:00

I had a lot of fun creating this expanded scene on a tri-shutter card for my friend, Deanna.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: date night, Mizzou football, crisp air, sleeping in, kids giggling

Stamps: Hampton Art

Paper:DCWV Green Stack

Extras: Spica pen

Verve World Card Day Challenges

2010-10-08T21:11:00.003-05:00

I finished all five Verve World Card Making Day Fall Release Week Challenges. Yay, me! The hardest part was trying to decide which of my beautiful Verve stamps to use. I decided to use the same dp pack for all. I think they're so cute all together.

VSWCMD1

VSWCMD2

VSWCMD3

VSWCMD4

VSWCMD5

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for a date night with my husband. Great steak, cold beer, yummy peach cobbler, mojitos and Date Night the movie.

Stamps: All Verve -- Beautiful You, Believe, Notes of Prayer, Hundred Hearts

Paper: All MM Sabrina pack

Extras: Jolee's, Michaels pearls and rhinestone, unknown ribbon

Fabulous Friend Friday

2010-09-24T22:00:00.000-05:00

Not a card, but a little just because gift for my friend, Amanda. I knew the peppers would make her laugh.

And I knew she would love the inside.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: The Magic House, yummy burger at Applebee's, another family movie night, clean family room, dark chocolate latte

Stamps: Sweet n Sassy Stamps Punny Fruits & Veggies

Extras: Copics

3D Thursday

2010-09-23T22:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my friend's birthday. She's an admitted Nutella addict and for her birthday, I jazzed up a jar. I gave her this card, so I chose the same papers to coordinate (and match the yumminess inside) and I printed a new label for her family...

Just in case her darling children ignore the label, I placed a little monogram reminder on the top.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: vacation week for husband, bathroom remodel is finished, a not crowded time at Chuck E. Cheese, gorgeous morning lakeside, family movie night

Paper: Basic Grey Bittersweet

Cody's Swinging

2010-08-30T20:08:00.003-05:00

Happy 6th Birthday to my nephew, Cody. While he isn't bald, he *did* sport a mohawk this summer. Like this little guy, he loves bibs and would absolutely be on a rope swing if he saw one.

I shot the photo at night, so the colors are little wonky. The colors are cream, espresso, and kraft.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: gentle breezes, Mozart, candles, pinot noir, birds chirping

Stamps: MFT PI Tree Swing

Extras: Koh-i-Noors, Prismas, sentiment is computer generated

New week, Newly inked

2010-08-30T19:55:00.003-05:00

Yay! Another brand new stamp has gotten inky. While I was happy to use another 'gotta have it' new set, I am super jealous of this bunny.

If I could find a La-Z-CHICK this cute, I would totally buy it! Do they make recliners in fuchsia? Of course, if I had the shiny gold box on my belly, I might not care what the chair looked like. ;-)

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: honest mechanic, a newly decorated (by chalk) sidewalk, mochas, fun pens with feathers on top, and my darling husband

Stamps: MFT Chocolate Bunny

Paper: BG Sultry pack

Extras: Memento Dew Drop in Rich Cocoa, Copics, Crystal Effects

New week, Newly inked

2010-08-23T22:00:00.005-05:00

This is the CAS card I sent to my friend, Kristie, for her birthday last week. Now that I'm sure she's received it I can post it.

The bodies are highlighted with silver Spica, the sun's rays are traced in gold, the frame has a bit of red. Subtle little highlights, but I think just enough.

The butterflies are only adhered by their bodies, the wings are all free.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: a great first day of school, excited pre-K girl, sweet snuggles during reading time, first day cake tradition (YUM), crystal that throws rainbows across the kitchen in the morning

Stamps: Verve Enjoy Today

Paper: random scraps from the stack

Extras: MS butterfly punch, Spicas in gold, red, silver

Scrap Stack Diving

2010-08-21T19:38:00.003-05:00

This was our last week before starting school on Monday. Accordingly, this week was very full organizing our school stuff, lesson planning, and general cleaning and serious decluttering. I worked hard all week so I could have a fun weekend. Grandpa watched the kids and Scott and I had a date last night. This morning I started with breakfast and Hobby Lobby with my best friend, then home to my craft table. Oh, yeah, very nice start to the weekend!

I just had to play along with Party Time Tuesdays because this week is celebrating Kristie's birthday and the challenge is to use her favorite colors of pink, brown, and white. I immediately thought of BG Bittersweet and this sweet image in my image pile. I think it even *came* from Kristie. lol I colored the hats with two shades of pink and one of brown. I left the little guys white to highlight their fun hats.
I hope you had a GREAT birthday, Kristie, and stretch that celebration a.l.l. the way through the weekend!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: girl time, fabulous coffee, jalapenos, craft time, and a date with my main man

Stamps: House Mouse, sentiment is MFT

Paper: Basic Grey Bittersweet

Extras: Copics, corner punch

New week, Newly inked

2010-08-16T22:00:00.004-05:00

Our anniversary was last week. I made Scott two cards, both using new stamps. Yay, Me! Only....ah...ummm....a LOT left uninked. Let's not talk about that, though. Moving on.......

This one was waiting by his coffee cup in the morning, using the adorable Cuddles and Hugs.

This was the one I gave him at dinner, simple and to the point.

I love this sentiment. That Pooh Bear is so wise!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: pretty sunrise, fun pen with feathers, French press coffee, big purge in family room and much cooler weather!

Stamps: 1-Cuddles and Hugs 2-Verve Beautiful You

Extras: 1-ColorBox chalk ink in Burnt Sienna and Dark Moss, Archival Brilliance ink in Coffee Bean, Koh-i-Noor pencils and OMS 2-MS Double Loops punch

Flashback Friday

2010-08-13T22:00:00.000-05:00

Amy over at Tsuruta Designs threw down a flashback challenge, repost the first card you posted on your blog. eeeeksssssssss! Okay, deep breath, I'm brave enough, so here ya go:

I actually still like the concept and may have to do it again with a little something extra this time.
It's simple, but it was for a man and I think it's pretty yet masculine. It's a good start anyway. lol

My very first post is here.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: this fun hobby, girlfriends who call just to share a laugh, finding kids snuggled with a book, movie with a latte

Stamps: Unity

Extras: Versamark and silver embossing powder

Scrap Stack Diving

2010-08-08T16:39:00.004-05:00

Penguins in board shorts and hula skirts just make me happy.

Party Time Tuesdays Challenge #10 is Summer Birthday Card. I think the tropical penguins work for that. Normally he's holding a popsicle, but I gave him a cupcake this time. Doesn't he look like he's stiff-arming (finning?) her so she'll stay away from his cupcake? I guess he doesn't want to share. lol

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: tiny ballerinas at their first dance recital, ice cream after to celebrate, a break in the stifling heat, family movie night, sweet sun tea

Stamps: Imaginisce penguins, TSOL banners4all cupcake, Studio G sentiment and border doodles
Paper: scraps from the heap
Extras: unknown flowers from the stash from a loooooong time ago

Scrap Stack Diving

2010-07-31T20:56:00.001-05:00

The challenge at Party Time Tuesdays this week is 'Anything Goes Birthday'. I dug in the scrap stack and the scraps from Color Throwdown 102 were right on top.
I didn't like this color combo at first, but it definitely grew on me.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: family fun day, s'mores, kid giggles, bubbles, Michaels coupons

Stamps: TSOL HappyBday2You and Banners4All

Paper: Bazzill

A Triple Play!

2010-07-21T22:20:00.001-05:00

I can never do Party Time Tuesday actually ON Tuesday. Good thing my friend, Kristie, isn't a stickler on that *Tuesday* part. This week's challenge is a pocket card. I combined it with Color Throwdown 102 and Whimsie Wednesday Challenge 41 for a Triple Play. Nothing like my friend, Terry aka Challenge Queen ;-) but three in one is pretty good for me!

'Got cupcakes?' makes me giggle every time I use it. I know, it's a little thing, but it makes me happy.

I *love* Flopsey! I pieced the cupcake with the same green cs at the top of the card.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: seeing a friend who has been out of town for a while, Smencils, bubbles, clean drinking water, and, of course, cupcakes

Stamps: MFT Cupcake Flopsey, TSOL HappyBday2You, Unity Cupcakes a la Yummy

Paper: Bazzill

Extras: Threading Water punch, Corner punch, Rhinestones

Fabulous Friend Friday

2010-07-16T22:00:00.000-05:00

This card is an inside joke with my friend, Charlotte. It would take entirely too long to explain (and probably not be as funny to you as it is to us), but I know she will laugh when she sees it.
Because she's such a great friend, a brand new box of Thin Mints from my freezer stash is going to accompany the card. She will love that.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: inside jokes with great friends, cooler weather (below 95 today yay!), Shrek green toe nails, cat hunting a fly, playing games with the kids after lunch

Stamps: Unity chairs, MFT letters

Extras: Color Box Pink Pastel Chalk Ink, American Crafts ribbons

PTT Challenge #7

2010-07-14T22:00:00.001-05:00

Party Time Tuesdays challenge this week is 'Anything Goes Birthday'. My new Studio G Soloz stamp fit the bill.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: stay-at-home-day, Hungry Hippos, light chocolate soy milk, AC, the smell of bleach

Stamps: Studio G Soloz sentiment, Snag 'em Stamps Flower

Extras: MFT Ribbon, SU! Filigree Brad

Tuesday Tyler Challenge

2010-07-13T22:00:00.000-05:00

It's been a while, but Ty left me this stamp on my table today. It's one I found on clearance at Hobby Lobby and bought for the environment camp we do in August.

I crimped the background paper in both directions for lots of texture. The image is popped up. The letters look green, but they're gold Spica.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: coffee on the way to dance, making a new friend, watching preschool ballerinas, Em with glitter glue, puffy clouds

Stamps: Stamps Happen, Inc. Go Green, Studio G

Extras: Crimper, Versamark, Color Box Dark Moss Chalk Ink and Color Box Frost White, Gold Spica

Darling Daughter Day!

2010-07-12T11:07:00.001-05:00

Emily turns 4 today. My little chick has a silly sense of humor, so Hippo Birdie it is.
For my colors I used Color Throwdown 100, regal rose, certainly celery, real red, and baja breeze . Happy 100th, CTD!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm so grateful for my darling daughter. Em, you're amazing! You make us all smile every day. You're so smart it's a little scary and you can accessorize like nobody's business. I love you, sweet girl and feel so blessed to be your mom. You are a gift!

Stamps: Studio G

Happy Birthday, Rock Star!

2010-06-22T17:18:00.003-05:00

Party Time Tuesdays Challenge #4 was 'red, white, blue birthday card'. Gulp, yikes! I really had to think about that one, then I remembered this new Snoopy stamp. My brother loved Snoopy as a kid and his birthday is in July. Hey, I'm early for his birthday! lol The star is red Spica, the guitar is Glaze with gold Spica. It really sparkles in person. I hope my little brother's cool with sparkle! I did give Snoopy mirrored glasses, a black leather jacket, and white kicks to up his cool factor.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: watching preschool dance class, sunshine, seasoned fries, books that make you laugh out loud, challenges that stretch you

Stamps: Stampabilities Rock Star

Extras: MM letters, Spica pens (red & gold), Sakura Glaze pen, eyelets that have been in my stash for.ev.ah!

ETA:

Kristie picked me as one of the top 3! Yay! Thanks, Kristie!

New week, Newly inked

2010-06-21T17:10:00.000-05:00

I just got Hundred Hearts and couldn't resist making a little love note for my favorite man with my favorite sentiment from the set.

The panel and hearts are popped up. It doesn't show, but the black is actually glitter paper for some edginess.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: tiny nails to polish, my wonderful husband, chocolate, clean drinking water, healthy children

Stamps: Verve Hundred Hearts

Paper:DCWV Glitter

Fabulous Father Friday

2010-06-18T22:00:00.000-05:00

I am so blessed! My guy is a great friend and a wonderful husband to me. One of the many reasons I love him is that he is a fantastic father to our children. When I saw Huggable Dad at Shirley's 2 Girls I *knew* this was the image for Scott's Father's Day card.
This guy doesn't look like Scott and Em's hair is long and curly, but when I printed the digi she looked at it and said 'awww, that's Daddy holding ME'. It may not look like them, but I love the feeling this image conveys. The contentment on both faces is something I see every time my sweet husband hugs one of the kids. The way he's holding her foot is just so tender and speaks of my big guy's gentle love for his children. Of course her outfit is purple and I outlined her mouth with clear Spica to mimic Em's sparkly lip gloss.

Those mini candy bars at the bottom of the pic are part of the kids' gift to Scott. Each of them wrote 10 reasons they love their dad on the back of strips of dp and used them to wrap the bars. When he goes for a candy bar he'll get a sweet note from one of the kids. Honestly, I think that will be his favorite part of his gift!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: Ted Drewes, kid book club fun, silly puppy, Dad surprising the kids by staying home from work, and AC

Stamps: Huggable Dad digi from Shirley's 2 Girls

Paper: DCWV dp

Hippo Hooray!

2010-06-16T22:00:00.000-05:00

Party Time Tuesdays Challenge #3 is 'Anything Goes Birthday'...I think this fits.
Very bright and a little silly. What's not to love about a pink hippo with shiny black nails and a flower behind her ear?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: sunshine, fresh popcorn, playing fetch with the dog, picnic, bubble bath

Stamps: The Stamps of Life Banners 4 All, Penny Black Lil' Hippo

Extras: MM alphas

40 is Fabulous

2010-06-09T22:00:00.001-05:00

Party Time Tuesdays Challenge #2 is to have numbers on your card front.
I printed the sentiment and double stamped the flowers and outer happy birthdays. A bunch of pearls and a Scor-pal line for added dimension and it's ready to go.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: VBC fun, great Jr. Counselors, wonderful co-leaders, picnic lunch with the kids, watching clouds drift by

Stamps: Unity dandelion, Inkadinkadoo Round Frames

Extras: Memento Ink (black and brown), ColorBox white ink, Thickers, Queen & Co pearls

Happy 10th Birthday

2010-06-02T22:00:00.004-05:00

My friend, Kristie, started a new challenge blog, Party Time Tuesdays. Isn't that a fun name? The goal is to make a birthday card each week. Here's my card for Party Time Tuesdays Challenge #1
The card is for my niece who turns 10 tomorrow. Double digits are a BIG deal, so I made her a big card. It's 5x7 and the entire front panel is on pop dots. It's big and very shiny. The sparkly details are hard to pick up, but....I colored the '10' with pink and Stardust and stamped the round greeting around it to highlight that important number, the cupcake liners are silver, the pink cupcakes are highlighted with Stardust. After coloring 10 cupcakes, man did I have a craving!

My niece has a silly sense of humor, so Flopsey on the inside was the perfect finishing touch.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: being able to take the kids to a surprise movie this morning, blowing bubbles in the wind, preschooler jokes that are funny because they make absolutely no sense, reading in the sun, my amazing husband

Stamps: Unity cupcakes and numbers, The Stamps of Life circle from HappyBday2You, MFT Flopsey

Paper: MM Raspberry Dots

Extras: Koh-i-noor, Copics, Stardust

Rockin' Thank You

2010-06-01T22:00:00.000-05:00

Tyler's thank you note to his guitar teacher:

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: library time, needing TWO bags to haul home all the books, veggie burrito, fresh sheets, sun tea

Paper: DCWV

Extras: Taylored Expressions guitar gift card template, Inkssentials

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2010-05-19T07:46:00.007-05:00

Today is my mom's 60th birthday. Yay, Mom!!!!!! I hope your day is fantastic. BTW, I'm not spilling any beans, Mom doesn't hide her age. I say it's because she looks so young that people are surprised when she tells them her age. She says with a kid knocking on the 40 door, she can't claim to be younger without raising eyebrows. rofl Whatever! She's Sixty and Sensational!

The first card is the one from the kids. Tyler made it, Devon fetched supplies, Emily applauded the effort. When he was finished, Ty brought me the card to take a picture 'so you can blog it'. He stamped each letter individually. He's MUCH better at lining things up than I am!

And here's my card:

We've established my mom is girlie. She has a little dog (not quite this little, but close) and adores purses and the color red. I wanted to use spotlight technique for 'That Moment'...the moment when you're shopping and you see nothing but the ONE thing and you MUST have it. For some it's craft supplies, for some it's shoes, for some it's purses, for some of us it's all of the above. ahem I couldn't get a decent picture with the bubble's glare, so please use your imagination......the purse is lipstick red with black patent corners and bottom and glittery red buckle. Mom loves Spectators, so I made the inset white to bring that style in for her.

The sentiment actually combines words from three different sentiments to come up with 'May Your Day Be Tote-ally Fantastic'. That's what I hope for Mom today. She's teaching this morning, so the kids and I are surprising her with Starbucks and hugs to get the day started right!

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm so very grateful for my amazing mom. She gave me life and taught me how to really *live*. She is a wonderful mom and my best girl friend. According to my husband she is the best mother-in-law ever (and he says that when she's not even around lol). My kids absolutely adore her. She may look too young, but she fully embraces the name, Grandma. All in all, my mom rocks!

Stamps: MFT Tote-ally Fantastic, Top Shelf Sentiments, bear unknown, Studio G alpha

Extras: MFT Die-namics Scalloped Scallop, Copics, Spica, Glaze pen, Inkssentials, clear bubble sticker

New week, Newly inked

2010-05-17T20:05:00.000-05:00

I knew I wanted to use a new set, but didn't know which one. I lined up all my new sets that have yet to see ink and asked my friends to pick a number and I would use that set. Sandy and Terry both picked #7, Sow Seeds of Love. It's so cute how it looks like an old seed packet. I am not a gardener. I have no idea what flowers these are supposed to be, so I decided they would be purple with glittery gold centers. You can do that when you're coloring them vs. growing them. ;-D

I tried for a bow, but gave up. I decided to just tie a knot the way I tied my TaeKwonDo belt. I certainly did that for enough years that I could tie this knot without messing it up. lol

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: a break in the rain, nice guy who fixed the crack in our basement, darling husband home early from work, last day of school for us, Monopoly Deal

Stamps: Sow Seeds of Love by Annie LaPoint

Extras: MFT Ribbon, Copics, Koh-i-Noor, Bic Mark Its, Spica

Fabulous Friend Friday

2010-05-07T22:00:00.000-05:00

Of course, today's fabulous friend is my very best girl friend, my mom. You might think you do, but I *KNOW* I have the best mom ever. ;-D

My bow is wonky because I am extremely bow-challenged. Mom will overlook it because she's cool like that.

And here it is with its friend, the dressed up Sephora bag. Aren't they a cute pair?

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: the rain held off so we could have park day, great friends for mom-ing advice, warm brownies, silver finger tips, lavender bubble bath

Stamps:SnSS Heartfelt Sentiments

Paper: DCWV All Dressed Up and MM Sabrina stacks

Extras: Darice Bridal Scroll Ribbon

3D Thursday

2010-05-06T22:00:00.002-05:00

It has been a while since I did a 3D Thursday. yikes! Where does the time go?

In case you haven't heard, Mother's Day is Sunday. My mom is a girlie-girl so where did I go for her gift? Oh yeah, THE fun store for girlie-girls...Sephora.

Being slightly girlie myself, I think good things always come in shiny gold foiled ballotins, small light blue boxes with white ribbons, and shiny black and white bags:
FUN to shop there, got Mom's gifts AND they gave me a cute little bag. Gotta love it! I decided to use the bag, but dress it up a bit so it didn't look like I just stopped on the way to lunch. haha

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: good friends, sleeping in to 7, fresh bread, warm towels, sunshine patch for the cat to sleep in

Paper: DCWV All Dressed Up and MM Sabrina stacks

Extras: Sephora bag free with purchase :-)

Two's a Ringer

2010-05-05T22:00:00.001-05:00

One of my nephews turns the big 2 on Friday. Yay, Jake! Two is terrific and so is my adorable nephew....that's my totally unbiased opinion, of course. I get to see him Sunday. YAY!
I used Wee Tees, but trimmed the onesie down to be a ringer T because 2 is too old for a onesie. sniff He's a big guy now. Just for fun I put Jake's initials as the tag. That makes it a J. Crew-tee, right? lol

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: my sweet nephew, time to play, veggie enchiladas, ice cold beer, laughs with the family at dinner

Stamps: Wee Tees, AmyR Stamps Big Words & Handy Additions for sentiment

Paper: Value pack

Extras: SU Brilliant Blue ink, MM 2 sticker

Sensational SON Sunday

2010-04-25T10:07:00.005-05:00

Today Devon is 10. He's thrilled to be in the double digits.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm so grateful for my second son. He's a fantastic kid! I love you, Devon. I'm so very blessed God sent you to me.

Stamps: Changito Pirates

Paper: DCWV Green stack

Extras: Copics, Gold Spica, Sakura black glaze pen

Scrap Stack Diving

2010-04-24T22:00:00.003-05:00

My friend Laura's cas birthday card.
She'll laugh when she opens it. She's in another state and this is the best I can do via mail.

Who's hungry?????

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: morning snuggles from Em, finding new SU sets for $5, movie outing with the family, making it home through crazy weather, rainbows

Stamps: Unity Sending My Love
Paper: scraps

Extras: Stampendous cake sticker

Only as high....

2010-04-14T22:00:00.002-05:00

This poem rocks! This sentiment is a big part of my love fest for the Believe set.
A very simple card to let that poem shine.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: sweet kids who give back, cheese balls, great Bible Study co-leader, the smell of baby powder, good books

Stamps: Verve Believe
Extras: SU! Cameo Coral, Really Rust, Ruby Red

So Fabulous

2010-04-13T22:00:00.003-05:00

Glam Girls are so fun to play with. They're like paper dolls for big girls.

I really like her sassy hip scarf and diva sun shades.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: parks, Devon reading to Emily, Emily reading to Devon, baby giggles, Multi-grain Cheerios

Stamps: CC Designs Glam Girls
Paper: DCWV All Dressed Up
Extras: ColorBox chalk ink, unknown silver ink, rhinestones, koh-i-noor, silver photo marker

New week, Newly inked

2010-04-12T22:00:00.004-05:00

I love this quote! Sometimes it takes a crazy week to make you truly appreciate your down time. Hard to believe, but our week will be even busier than normal, so I'm holding on to this one and using it as this week's mantra.

Thanks for looking!

Today I'm grateful for: coffee on an early morning, gorgeous weather, great art teacher, time volunteering with my friend, and that Ty's friend is recovering from his surgery so well

Stamps: Inkadinkadoo Garden Delight, PMS sentiment
Paper: DCWV Green Stack
Extras: Favorite Findings buttons, ColorBox chalk ink