My Stamping Spot

Dustin's Owl Project....DONE!

2011-08-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

I finished Dustin's Owl Stationary today. I ended up not making a box to store everything in. I have to mail the items to him and I was afraid the box would get damaged in shipping.

I made a total of:
6 note cards (with clear envelopes)
12 sheets of note paper
12 matching envelopes

Here is the finished project and then a picture of each individual item follows so you can get a better look.

Entire Project

Note Paper

Envelope *sorry its on its side*

Note Card

Dustin's Note Papers

2011-08-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

I am done with the 12 note papers that I am making for Dustin. I ended up putting more ink on the edges of the paper and de-stressing the edges a little more with some Creamy Caramel (my favorite color that was discontinued).

Take a peek:

Got a new computer...and I am working on a lil' project

2011-08-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

I FINALLY got a new computer today. For the last 6+ months I have only had a net book to surf the web with. If you have ever used a net book then you understand why I have not been posting updates here at "My Stamping Spot".

Now for my project (rubs hands together)... My friends oldest son moved out of her house and away from the area. When I say away I mean to a whole different state. Right before he left he posted on Facebook that he wanted stationary with owls on it. My mind started to race.

First I thought, "I could do that!"

Then my mind started thinking of my friend who was going to be missing her "baby" and that this would be a great way for him to write home and send her some love.

So then my fingers typed, "I'll make you some stationary."

Then reality hit home. I quickly realized that SU! doesn't have a masculine owl stamp. I then started searching my next favorite place to shop....E-bay. After a quick search I found a stamp that would work. One that had my requirement (had to inspire me) and one that had his requirement (he wanted an owl sitting on a branch).

Here is what I picked out:

This stamp/image is from a lady who makes her own stamps and does custom images. This was not a custom image but it was still perfect. Like I said it covered both of our requirements.

Anyway, my plan is to make him: 1. 12 sheets of note paper 2. 12 note cards 3. 24 matching envelopes and 4. a matching container to keep all the goodies in.

My idea....KISS - Keep it Simple Stupid

I have already started the note papers. I am doing a simple embossing on the paper, masking the inside of the circle and sponging So Saffron, then masking the center and sponging Marina Mist around the image and along the edges of the note paper.

Masking the moon

Sponging the blue

As soon as everything is done I will post finished pictures. Keep checking back!

Scrapbook Class

2011-07-18T19:27:00.000-07:00

Thinking of having a scrapbooking class here in a few weeks. Your class would include a 12x12 album and you would create a full scrapbook in one night. Price depends on how many people join in on the fun. Anyone out there interested? Let me know so I can get a heads up.

I Think I'm In LOVE With This Set

2011-04-07T00:50:00.000-07:00

This is an easy card that a beginner can easily reproduce. If you want, you can even use designer paper in the color block design.

Do the color blocking on the top of your card front. Then stamp in top of the blocking. Don't be afraid of adding the embossing directly to the card. I would do this part first before adding the cut out butterfly.

If you get stuck, or have questions, let me know!

Cool Pattern

2011-03-31T03:25:00.000-07:00

I left sunny California on the 18th. I figured I would only be away from here for a couple days but one thing after another started happening. And now, 16 days later I am finally posting something new.

I wanted to share two cards with you. They both use the same idea and pattern but one of the cards cuts the background in half and repositions it on the edges.

This idea is also great on scrapbook pages but I found that it works best with smaller pages (6x6). Of course that is my opinion and yours may differ. Give it a try and let me know what you come up with.

Wanted to Share: Just Believe

2011-03-14T11:16:00.000-07:00

This is one of the two cards that I will be showing for all of April's Workshops. It is easy to reproduce, great for new stampers, and fun to make for even the most seasoned stamper.

Here is what you will need to have on hand to re-do this card:

Stamp Set: Just Believe
Paper: Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Wild Wasabi, and Chocolate Chip
Extras: square shaped paper with circle shape cut in center for masking, sponge

2-5-7-10 Box

2011-03-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite boxes to make for Hostess Gifts and for little trinkets for my friends and family. It is easy to make, and fun to decorate. Enjoy!

2-5-7-10 Box

(Taken from SCS)

by Jenn Balcer

Create party favors with just one sheet of cardstock, some scored lines, and some adhesive.

Supplies

8 1/2" x 11" Sheet Colored Cardstock
Cardstock scraps for front of box
Corner Rounder Punch or decorative scissors
1/8" handheld circle punch
Paper trimmer with scoring blade
Scissors
Sticky Strip™
Stampin' Dimensionals
Stamps, Ink, Ribbon

Step-by-Step

Step 1
Position cardstock lengthwise. Using scoring blade on paper trimmer, score cardstock at 2", 5", 7", and 10".
Step 2
Turn cardstock, and score at 2" and 7".

Step 3
Stamp scored cardstock as desired.
Step 4
Hold cardstock horizontally with the 2" section at the top.
Use scissors to cut off all but one 2" tall section from the top of the cardstock as shown. This will be the flap closure for the box.

Cut the narrow piece at an angle to create tab for adhesive.

Make vertical cuts at the bottom to create 1 1/2" tall flaps, and cut off the narrow piece. This will be the bottom of the box.
Step 5
Remove guide from corner rounder and punch along 2" flap to create a scalloped edge on box flap, making sure to line punch up so that scallops connect. Or, use scalloped scissors for a faster decorative edge.
Step 6
Use a bone folder or other straight edge to sharply crease all scored lines to shape box.

Apply Sticky Strip™ close to side tab's score line.

Remove red liner, and carefully construct box.
Step 7
Fold small flaps toward center of box, and large flaps over small flaps.

Apply Sticky Strip to outside edge of large flap under what will be the box front.

Remove red liner, and apply pressure to finish bottom of box.
Step 8
Line up front of box with back of box at top and pinch together. Release.

Punch two holes in flap with 1/8" handheld punch.
Step 9
Pull flap down to close box, and use a pen to mark where holes were punched.

Use 1/8" handheld punch to punch holes at markings.
Step 10
Thread ribbon through holes on box. Center ribbon.

Use 1/8" handheld punch to punch holes at markings.
Step 11
To close box, thread ribbon through holes punched through flap.

Pull to tighten, and tie bow.
Step 12
Stamp scrap cardstock (here, the largest layer is 2 3/4" square), embellish, and adhere to box front with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Enjoy filling and giving!

Stamp Organization

2011-03-12T10:50:00.000-08:00

Author: Becky Cates

Over the past few years, I have become more and more of a rubber and acrylic stamp collector. I love to use stamps on my scrapbook pages and cards. With a collection that continues to grow, finding a method of stamp organization has become a necessity to keep track of what I own.

No matter which type of stamp you own (rubber, acrylic, foam or unmounted), it’s important to have some method of organization so you will know where to find a specific stamp when you need it. Organizing will also prevent you from buying the same stamp set twice. Yes, it has happened…don’t laugh! I know some of you are guilty of that too.

Here are a few categories to get you started:

-- Alphabets: Store alphabet collections together for easy reference. Shallow drawers or small divided cases are great
for keeping these small pieces together. Alphabet sets can be further divided by style and size of font.

-- Greetings such Happy Birthday, Congratulations, Thank You, etc.

-- Quotes, words & phrases

-- Background textures and images

-- Borders

-- Botanicals such as leaves, flowers, plants

-- Animals

-- Seasonal (subdivided into individual holidays)

-- Vintage

-- Frames

The size of your stamp collection will dictate what type of storage containers you need to accommodate all of your images. Be sure to label everything well so that when it’s time to put the stamps away they can all be returned to the proper place! For acrylic stamps you might want to consider stamping the image on a small piece of white paper or cardstock so you can tell at a glance what image is on the stamp.

While the original planning, labeling, and organizing of your collection can be time consuming, you will find your stamp organization time well spent when you’re ready to work on your next project!

Stamp Storage

2011-03-11T10:48:00.000-08:00

Author: Nicole Ratzlaff

I love stamps. I love them love them love them! In fact, before I organized my stamps I loved them so much that sometimes I bought two of the same stamp because I didn’t know what I had. This marked the beginning of my need for stamp storage and organization.

First I researched how others did this and considered what was available on the market at the time. There are a lot of stamp storage units available on the market today if your budget allows. While they are pricy, they often look like pieces of furniture as opposed to simply a storage piece and could fit into any room of your house. Many people repurpose old furniture in new ways. For example, you could take apart a baby crib and mount the slatted side to the wall vertically. This would house and display many stamps. Or simple shelving on the walls can also make nice wooden stamp displays. Try making shadowbox wall structures if you really want to make an impressive display!

With clear acrylic stamps you have different storage options because the size is so varied and thin. You can put them in photo boxes and use label the boxes by theme or use dividers to split up a single box. You can use CD cases or tins to store your stamps while maintaining each individual set. Another option would be to use page protectors of varying sizes in a notebook (single page, CD dividers or baseball cards for example) as pictured above.

There are so many great ideas out there. However, I have found the best solution is to figure out what fits within my budget and what will work in the space I have available. I decided to store my stamps in three categories: acrylic, foam and wood. I then have them further sorted by alphabets, holidays, occasions, children, nature, symbols and sentiments. I decided to keep all of my acrylic stamps in a binder with sheet protectors, my foam stamps in bins so that it is easy to dump them out and toss them back in, and my wooden stamps in plastic boxes in drawers.

Although I have not finished all of my stamp storage and organization, with my current system I am able to find stamps easily and use them more often. I still want to create a stamp catalog with all of my stamp images so I can stop and flip through one binder to see everything I have in black and white….but for now the storage is working and the next step of organization will come later.

Ink Organization

2011-03-10T10:46:00.000-08:00

Author: Corrine Mihlek-Brzys

Open any rubber stamping or scrapbooking magazine and you’ll see a dazzling array of stamping inks. With as many ink types as there are colors, it’s easy for crafters to amass mountains of inks. Getting them organized and at-the-ready is crucial to being able to go with your artistic flow. Here are several ink organization ideas to make your “mountain” manageable and put a little method in your ink madness.

Type – Is it a pigment? A dye? A solvent? For many crafters inks will fall into either the dye or pigment categories, making this a basic, easy way to organize. But even if you foray into the myriad of different ink types–watermark, metallic, opalescent, chalk ink, etc.–this is still a great way to categorize your inks. You’ll always know exactly where to find ink pads for specific uses.

Manufacturer – Many manufacturers have entire lines of inks organized by season or color intensity (such as “brights” or “neutrals”). This method is great for no-brainer matching every time, especially if you also use the company’s coordinating products like paper, markers and embellishments.

Size/Style – If you have a grouping of non-standard sized ink pads, this method may make usage as well as storage easier. Keeping your long multis and your small square and elliptical ink pads stacked together keeps these odd-sized pads under control and available when you need them.

Color – This basic organization method is great for crafters who are all about the color! When you need a specific hue you can go to the correct category and whittle down your search easily from there, deciding which ink type is best.

Combination – Any of the above ways of organizing will help keep your inks from becoming an unruly hoard, but you may want to fit a category (or two) into another for a truly personalized approach. For example, you could start with separating your inks by type, then by color. Or type, manufacturer, then color. Think about how you create, what you go to first when using inks in your projects, and let that be your guide. The very best system is the one you’ll use–the one that makes the most sense to you.

CAS Cards

2011-03-07T16:22:00.000-08:00

What is CAS?
CAS is an acronym for Clean and Simple. Below is the reworded definition.
It's all about the design.
* not the technique
* not the tools
* not the embellishments

It's all about the design.
* Uncluttered
* lots of white or open space
* one main focal point

It's all about the design.

Clean and Simple

Here are some examples:

Please comment to this post with a link to your CAS project! We would love to take a peak!

Mojo Monday 3-7-11

2011-03-07T16:12:00.000-08:00

Here's is todays sketch:

These are the examples that I am going to share today. The 1st on I picked for you, the second my 7 year old picked.

Also, I am working on the 2nd half of March's class schedule. As soon as it gets done, I will post dates. I am also getting ready for a craft sale. Once I get things listed and pictures taken I will post some.

Have a great week everyone!

Mojo Monday - I'm back

2011-02-28T16:56:00.000-08:00

I have been gone for a while... Close to two years. And, even though that is not really that long in the great big picture of life, it is a long while when it comes to crafts. I would love to say that I have been busy crafting during that time. But, the truth is, I HAVE NOT! To make matters worst, I have not even touched any of my crafting stuff during my absence. I have left dust settle, double sided sticky tape get fuzzy with kitty hair, and glue dry up. After some soul searching and some deep cleaning, I have decided to start back up again.

I don't know why I have decided to start crafting again. The only thing I do know is that I am happy to once again be in the craft room, cleaning up the dirt (the dust is so thick at this point that it is dirt!), and looking through my supplies and old samples.

So, to start things out again, I am going back to posting MoJo Monday challenges! Here is this weeks sketch:

I will not be able to participate in this weeks challenge. If you seen my craft room you would understand! But, I wanted to bring you some examples of what can be done with this sketch:

Have fun participating, and if you get the chance please respond to this post with a link to you completed project!

Mojo Monday

2009-03-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

Todays sketch is very interesting. I think this layout would make some very pretty cards. What do you think?

If you are in my Stampers 10 group, please your finished card that uses this layout to be entered into the Hostess drawing.

Wanted to Share

2009-03-10T10:55:00.001-07:00

Andrea from DemotoDemo just emailed me this great sample, and I wanted to share!

Color Challenge 3-10-09

2009-03-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

I am so excited with todays color challenge. I love using this color combination and always find myself going back to these colors when ever I go into my room to start scraping, or card making. I even found that if you swap the pink out and replace it for a blue (or two) you have a great combination for any "boy" items you need to make.

Here's today's challenge:

Have fun using todays color combination, and send me a link for you completed project. I'd love to see it.

Mojo Monday Sketch

2009-03-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

I know! I almost missed todays Mojo Monday sketch. I like todays sketch a lot. It actually reminds me of cards that I made in the past.

Well, have fun with today's sketch, and check back tomorrow for the color challenge. I will also try to post some fun cards tomorrow that use todays sketch.... just to help give you a little more inspiration.

Card Sketch

2009-03-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

I seen this sketch on SplitCoast today and thought I would share it with you all. At first I really didn't like the sketch (kind of like this weeks Mojo Monday) but after I seen the cards made with it I kind of changed my mind (again, kind of like the weeks Mojo Monday).

So, here is the sketch:

And, if you want to see the cards made with this sketch click here.

Color Challenge Inspiration

2009-03-03T20:13:00.000-08:00

I found some great samples for todays color challenge. After seeing these I hope you all love this color combination as much as I do.

March 3, 2009 Color Challenge

2009-03-03T20:01:00.000-08:00

Here is todays color challenge:

I actually love this color combination! I think it would make some great birthday cards, or birthday pages.

What do you think you will use this combination for?

Mojo Monday Examples

2009-03-03T19:49:00.000-08:00

Here are some examples of this weeks sketch that were posted on MojoMonday.blogspot.com:

After seeing these cards I am loving the sketch a little more. What do you all think?

Mojo Monday - March 2, 09

2009-03-03T19:38:00.000-08:00

Things have been kind of crazy around here and I forgot to post this yesterday. Truthfully I am not too into this sketch but I think with a little tweaking it could have its possiblities. I would love to see what you all can do with this... (maybe the bow is what gets me)

Today's Share

2009-03-01T20:27:00.000-08:00

I have been working long, long days at work over the last 2 1/2 weeks and I think its finally caught up with me.... Yeah, I caught a cold. I made it through work today but now I am very tired and very hoping to have at least the next two days off without being called in to fill in a shift.

So, while I am home (sick) tonight I actually started searching the SpiltCoastStampers.com website, and I found something I wanted to share!

This page was uploaded today, along with a whole album of similar pages using the same layout. I think this layout is very simple and actually makes a great page. Can you imagine making a themed album using this layout? I can!!!

Click here to view this on the site.

I also wanted to share a card. Even though there are lots of great samples on SplitCoast I thought this card really stood out. I always have a hard time with MAN cards but I think this card could easily work as a MAN card.

I love the colors that this crafter used, but it could be easily made with girly colors (such as my favorite pinks and browns).

Click here to see the card on the site.

Well, those are my shares for today. I hope you enjoyed them. I am now off to bed. Have a great night all, and check back tomorrow to Mojo Monday.

Make a Scrapbook Collage

2009-02-26T08:54:00.001-08:00

This is what I am going to be trying today.....

I think it would be cute to make a themed collage page for some of the photos I have never gotten around to scrapping.

If you think this is something you can do yourself, then please keep in mind that you do not have to stick with the 12 x 12 size. This template can easily be adapted to any square sized page.

After I am done with a page or two I will post my finished page(s).

Have fun with todays template!

Tuesdays Late Color Challenge

2009-02-25T16:57:00.001-08:00

Again I am posting a late entry. Todays post is for our Tuesday Color Challenge. I know its Wednesday but... well, I don't really have a good reason besides I am still not use to my new work schedual and its throwing my whole life off.

I was hoping to have today off of work but I ended up agreeing to another day today. Tomorrow is my only day off since last Thursday. After that I have to wait until Monday for another day. But, I am planning on playing with some paper tomorrow. So, please check back tomorrow to see what I have created!

My Newest LOVE!

2009-02-23T21:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, you wanna hear a secret about me? Well, if not, stop reading now because here I go!!!!

I become easily obsessed over simple things!

Yes, its true. If you show me something and I think its cool, or interesting I will go on a shopping spree and end up breaking the bank in my new quest of owning EVERYTHING!

Well, my new "quest" is lunch boxes! But, not just any lunch boxes. My new love, if you will, is all in one boxes.

But, don't worry, I am still WAY into stamping!

If you are interested in seeing what I am now into I added some links to the bottom of the blog. Just a warning though: I am not endorsing any type of lunch box or seller. And, the list is not in any certain type of order. But, my all time favorite is the LunchSense.

Check back tomorrow for the color challenge!!!!

Today's Mojo Monday

2009-02-23T16:54:00.003-08:00

I have been trying to adjust to my new work schedual and unfortuantly this blog has taken the back seat (and stampin too). Along with trying to get into the habit of studying again. (For those of you who havent heard, I am back in school to get my RN!) But, I wanted to take a moment to bring you today's Mojo Monday challenge.

If you are in my Stampers 10 group then the rules are the same: bring a sample of your completed project(s) with you to our next meeting to be entered into the drawing for $50.00 in free SU! products. Our next meeting will be during the second week of March.

If you are just visiting, send me a link or a picture of your blog to be entered into this weeks drawing for a FREE stamp set.

An extra challenge has been added this week: If you can turn this sketch into a scrapbook page, and you send me the link to your picture, you will be entered into this weeks drawing to win a sample pack of paper and a free stamp set.

Either way, have fun with this challenge. I actually have this Wednesday and Thursday off of work so I am going to be trying to meet this weeks challenge at that time.

OOOPS! Mojo Monday and Inspiration Tuesday

2009-02-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

Ok! I know!!! This is my 3rd post of the day but I forgot about Mojo Monday yesterday. I do have a good reason though. Wanna hear it? Here it goes:

Due to the fact that my DH had to change work locations or get laid off, I have moved to the day

shift at work! Yes, the day shift.... 7:00am to 3:00pm. Which means that I now have to get up at 5:00am. And, yesterday (Monday) was my first official day on the day shift. So, my blog got put on the back burner.

Anyway, here is your Mojo Monday challenge:

I think this is a great sketch, why not try to mix it with today's color challenge (hee-hee).

Today's color challenge uses classic colors: Riding Hood Red (or any other bright red), basic black, basic gray, and whisper white.

Using these colors will give you a great, classic looking card (or scrapbook page). Give it a try and then let me know what you think!

Valentines Day Hanger

2009-02-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

Instructions to make Treat Holders at home:

(This instructions can be sized down or sized up to suit your needs. But these instructions are for a 9x9 square of cardstock.)

1. You will need a 9x9 square of paper, something to score your paper with, heavy duty tape, crop-a-dile (or other setting tool), ribbon, and brads.

2. Using a scoring tool, score a line down the middle of your square. This line will be scored at 4.5 inches.

3. The next two lines will be scored from one corner to the next, opposite corner. Do this twice to get a X mark on your page.

Your page should now look like this:

4. Fold all score marks to achieve a folded paper that looks like this:

5. Using a heavy duty tape, apply tape to the inside folds and secure down.

6. Again using the heavy duty tape, apply tape to the inside of the treat holder as shown below.

7. Pull each flap toward the opposite side of the holder. This will bend the holder into shape. Secure the flaps down. The treat holder will now maintain its shape.

. Using the crop-a-dile, attach brads to each side and string ribbon through to create a handle.

9. Decorate as desired.

A Couple Things to Share

2009-02-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

I never posted how I packaged Chris's Valentines Day (Friendship) cards. I actually packaged them in cello packs with a lollipop and just stapled the top of the bag shut. I came up with this "idea" 2 hours before he needed them for school. If I would have been on top of it a little better I think I would have used decorative paper toppers.

Anyway, here is how they came out:

I also wanted to share something that Chris got in his Friendship bag.

I know this is a little plain but I loved the idea of it. One look and I seen all the possibilities and cute stamp sets that I could use to recreate it. And, yes!, I let him have it back after I took the picture.

This Weeks Winner

2009-02-13T11:47:00.000-08:00

This weeks blog candy winner is MrsHoagie!

MrsHoagie please contact me at ana4stampin@gmail.com so I can send you your candy. My email address is: ana4stampin@gmail.com.

Interesting Scrapbook Sketch/Blog Candy

2009-02-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

I ran across this scrapbook sketch today on SCS. This is truely a 12x12 sketch, but I really thought the idea was great for any holiday or event that you might need to scrap. With a couple of tweeks in color and elements, you could have a whole new page. Plus, there is room on this page to add journalling if you wish too.

Now, it's time to show me what you have made. For everyone that send me a picture to their creation or a link to their picture I will put their name in a drawing for a free stamp set!

If you need a little more inspiration before getting started please click here. (It might take a few moments for pages to be added.)

Saint Patty's Day Share

2009-02-13T09:58:00.000-08:00

A stamping friend of mine (Beverly Penick) just shared this cool card and I thought I would share it with all of you.

This card was made using PUNCHES! Can you now invision my Saint Patty's Day cards?!?!??!! I can!!!

Check back later for this weeks blog candy...

A Cute Idea for Valentines Day

2009-02-12T13:01:00.001-08:00

I found this today at Stampin Fun with Selene. This is a really easy idea that I commonly forget about when making goodies for Chris's class.

You can make these and fill them with M&M's, Skittles, or just about anything (even candy corn). Just change the wrap around topper to match the season or event.

If you want directions for making these, just email me.

Another Find

2009-02-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

As I just shared a great card idea, I figured I should share a great page idea. This page was made by Gretchen Barron:

Great Find

2009-02-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

I found this great card on Dawn's Stamping Thoughts this morning. I think this card would be easy to CASE (copy) and could even be used as a great scrapbook page idea. Hope you all enjoy it.

Blog Searching

2009-02-10T09:56:00.000-08:00

This morning I was blog surfing (instead of cleaning, or spending time with Chris), and I came across an idea. The idea was to list a bunch of things that you want to do in your life time, or have already done. Then, highlight or underline those things as you accomplish them. Now, you may be asking your self.... "How is this stamp related?". My idea, take your camera with you and use the list as a starter/title for a scrapbook. Think about it.... family vacations, the sites you may see, the people you may meet. The possibilities are endless.

So, here is mine:

1. Swim with wild dolphins
2. Climb a mountain
3. Take a Ferrari for a test drive
4. Go inside the Great Pyramid
5. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
6. Said “I love you” and meant it
7. Hugged a tree
8. Bungee jumped
9. Visited Paris (not in California)
10. Watched a lightning storm at sea
11. Seen the Northern Lights
12. Gone to a huge sports game
13. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
14. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
15. Touched an iceberg
16. Slept under the stars
17. Changed a baby's diaper
18. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
19. Watched a meteor shower (with Wally and Alex a couple of years ago in our front yard)
20. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
21. Seen a total eclipse
22. Ridden a roller coaster
23. Danced like a fool and didn’t care who was looking (I don't know any other way to dance)
24. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
25. Visited all 50 states in the US
26. Watched whales
27. Backpacked through Europe
28. Taken a road-trip
29. Midnight walk on the beach
30. Visit Ireland
31. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
32. Visit Japan
33. Milk a cow
34. Pretended to be a superhero
35. Sung karaoke
36. Lounged around in bed all day
37. Gone scuba diving
38. Kissed in the rain
39. Played in the mud
40. Played in the rain
41. Gone to a drive-in theater
42. Visit the Great Wall of China
43. Start a business
44. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
45. Toured ancient sites
46. Gotten married
47. Gone without food for 5 days (it was actually 7 and I wouldn't want to do it again)
48. Made cookies from scratch
49. Ridden a gondola in Venice
50. Get a tattoo
51. White Water Raft the Grand Cayon
52. Gotten flowers for no reason (on Wally's Birthday- he got me flowers)
53. Go to Las Vegas
54. Kissed on the first date
55. Go to Thailand
56. Go on a cruise
57. Spoken more than one language fluently
58. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country (even Hawaii would count)
59. Go to San Francisco
60. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
61. Written articles for a large publication
62. Lose over 100 pounds
63. Touch a stingray
64. Helped an animal give birth (my little Hanna Bell and her 3 puppies)
65. Broken a bone
66. Gone on an African photo safari
67. Ridden a horse (but I would do it again in a heart beat)
68. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
69. Visited all 7 continents
70. Take a white water trip that lasts more than 2 days
71. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
72. Gone back to school
73. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read them
74. Skipped all your school reunions
75. Had a booth at a street fair
76. Go back to my normal hair color and stay there
77. Saved someone’s life

So, there's mine. What does yours look like?

Tuesday's Color Inspiration

2009-02-09T22:04:00.000-08:00

Tuesdays is now Color Inspiration day, and I am posting early because I have errands to run in the morning and I didn't want to miss posting this. This color combination is brought to us directly from KWernerDesignBlog.

The colors for this challenge are:

More Mustard
So Saffron
Taken with Teal
Old Olive
Whisper White

Of course you can use any colors that are close to these colors, just try to stay close. For more fun, try combining this color combination with the sketch posted today (Monday, February 9, 2009).

Once I finish this challenge I will post my project.

Mojo Monday

2009-02-09T12:43:00.000-08:00

Today is the first Monday of a new series that I am going to be hosting on this site. It is called Mojo Monday.

What is Mojo Monday?

Mojo Monday is actually the name of a blog site that is dedicated to offering new sketches to happy stampers out there every Monday. I will be copying these sketches and posting them right here for you to use (oh, and myself too). If you decide to play along with us, then please leave a comment with a link to you picture. Every week I will pick one winner and send that person a free SU! gift.

Here is this weeks sketch:

Now, go grab your supplies and start stamping and cutting!

Today's Share

2009-02-08T22:27:00.001-08:00

I was just looking at a few friends blogs tonight and seen something that I had to share!

Isn't this set of 6x6 pages just too cute! Yes, I am going to CASE these for sure.

If you would like to see the site that I found these great pages at, please click here.

Thanks for looking!

Blog Candy

2009-02-06T12:18:00.000-08:00

This weeks winner will receive this very cute Valentines Day basket. Of course, I am going to fill it full of goodies (after all I can not send someone an empty basket).

Here are some of the items that you will receive with your Valentines Day basket:

For your chance to win, leave me a comment on any of the posts on this site between today and Thursday, February 12th.

After next weeks drawing I will be posting directions on how to make these baskets. These are great to use for any type of occassion simply by changing color combinations and decorative elements.

Good luck to every one!

P.S. Sorry my pictures are blurry. For some reason my camera was not being good today.

Blog Candy Winner!!!!

2009-02-06T12:06:00.000-08:00

IVOLINA is our winner! Congratulations!!!

Our winner was picked through RANDOM.ORG:

There were 4 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

ivolina
colleen
mshoagie
mshoagie

Timestamp: 2009-02-06 20:17:00 UTC

Ivolina please contact me by email so I can send your prize out to you: ana4stampin@gmail.com

I keep forgetting!

2009-02-05T21:09:00.000-08:00

I keep forgetting to post Chris's Valentines day cards. I used the guidelines that I posted in the "Straight from Me!" challenge to make these cards.

Each card is a little over 4 x 2 inches. I still have the envelopes to make, but that should be the easy part ( I hope ). The big heart is stamped on glossy cardstock and then sponged in Real Red ink.

I ended up making 32 of these cards. Chris will be passing these out to his classmates on Friendship day on February 12th!

Oh and don't forget to check back tomorrow for our blog candy winner, and the new blog candy giveaway!!!

New Classes Added!

2009-02-02T14:07:00.000-08:00

I have just added three new classes to this months calendar. I will add pictures of the events in the next few days but for now here is what I am offering:

Progressive Scrapbook Class: This is not the page we will be making at out class but just an example of what kind of pages this technique can create.

February 20th: Progressive Scrapbook Class (4pm to 7pm)- Come and learn how to turn a 6x6 page into an 8 1/2x11 and 12x12 page. Class cost is $10.00. For more information or to join in the fun please contact me at ana4stampin@gmail.com
February 26th (my birthday): Stamp A Stack (4pm to 7pm) - Help me celebrate my birthday by making 8 birthday cards (2 each of 4 designs) that you can use this coming year. Class cost is $15.00. For more information or to join in the fun please contact me at ana4stampin@aol.com
February 27th: Altered Scrapbook Class (4pm to 7pm) - Transform plain paper bags into a treasured album that is great for your photos and keepsakes.

Next month we will be having another Stamp A Stack class, a class to make a Circle Flip-up Album, and a Easter Scrapbook Class.

Oh, and don't forget to leave a comment so that you can enter this weeks Blog Candy give-away. So far there is only 2 entries!

Challenge Results for SBVC61

2009-01-30T10:55:00.001-08:00

I made this 6x6 page for the SBVC61 challenge that I posted earlier in the week. This page also helps to fullfill my own personal challenge that I posted on January 27 (even though I have other projects I am working on for that challenge).

I am still waiting for my shippment on SNAIL (hopefully today they will arrive) so this page was done completely with pop-up tape, mini glue dots, and eyelets. I had to become very creative to get everything to stick!

The Start of Blog Candy

2009-01-30T10:10:00.001-08:00

Today is the start of blog candy on this blog so I decided to give away a starter pack that would be great for any new stamper. Of course, if you are not new to stamping you can still enter into the drawing to hopefully win this great combination of Stampin' Up! products.

This is what you could win in this weeks blog candy giveway:

a 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inch sample of cardstock in each of Stampin' Up!'s 48 standard colors
a 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inch sample of Stampin' Up!'s Whisper White Cardstock
a 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inch sample of Stampin' Up!'s Natural Ivory Cardstock
a new, full-size Basic Black Classic Ink Pad
and a new, umounted retired stamp set from Stampin' Up! called Weather or Not (this stamp set is not die cut and will require cutting and mounting)

To win this sampler (starter) set all you have to do is leave a comment on this blog between today (Friday, January 30th) and Thursday (February 5th). Please leave your comments on any new posts so that your entry can easily be found.

Thanks for viewing and good luck!

Ana

P.S. If you are this weeks winner I will post your name to this site. Please then contact me either by e-mail or by phone so I will know where to send your prize.

Valentines Inspiration

2009-01-29T11:29:00.000-08:00

I was looking for some inspiration today before getting ready for work and I stumbled on a few pieces of Valentines Day cards I wanted to share with you. Are you ready? Hope so because here they come:

Visit this card on the SCS website by clicking here.

The last three of these cards were actually my favorites. There were plenty more great samples available so if you decide to click on one of the links above please feel free to look at the other great samples.

I am still waiting for my SNAIL to arrive so this samples were kind of a waste to look at right now but they did give me some great ideas.

Join me again tomorrow for the Blog Candy announcement!

Blog Candy Coming Soon!

2009-01-28T12:37:00.001-08:00

Starting this Friday afternoon I will be offering Blog Candy on my site. If you don't know what Blog Candy is I am here to help:

1. Blog Candy is a free-be, give away drawing that will run on this blog from Friday till the following Thursday.

2. Everyone will have a chance to win this give away just by visiting the site and leaving a comment under one of the posts that I have left during the week.

3. On Friday afternoon, when the new Candy is introduced I will announce a winner from the previous week.

4. Blog Candy can range from a handmade gift that has been posted on this site to a new, FREE retired stamp set, or FREE merchandise from the current catalog.

So, starting this Friday start visiting this site and leaving comments. There is no limit to the number of time you can enter the drawing.

Good luck,

Ana

Card to Share

2009-01-28T12:26:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share this card with all of you. I love the layers and the colors.

If you would like to know more about this card please click on the card to be taken to the orginial website it came from!

P.S. If the card link doesn't work please click here!

Today's Challenge: SBVC61

2009-01-28T12:04:00.000-08:00

Good morning scrapper friends!

My challenge for you today is make your own frame around your picture(s). Some ideas are stamping, ribbons, chipboard, buttons, stickers, stitching and rub-ons.

To view other pages that use this challenge please click here.

As soon as I finish my page I will post it to this site. If you wish to share your page please send me a link to your site/picture.

Inky Hugs,

Ana

P.S. This challenge comes site from the SCS site. You can view the actually challenge by clicking here.

ARRRG!

2009-01-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

I was in the middle of finishing the 31 cards I needed to make for yesterdays challenge, and also the one scrap book page that was inspired by the cards when I ran out of tape!!!!

I have ordered more tape refills but it will take them a couple of days to arrive. So, until then I will have to just wait. But, I do promise that I have made a couple of things for yesterdays challenge and will post them all once I get the tape in.

Check back in a bit if you want to check out todays challenge!

Waiting in California (for tape that is...),

Ana

Today's Challenge: Straight From Me!

2009-01-27T11:27:00.000-08:00

Today's challenge comes straight from me. I decided to host my own challenge today mainly because I didn't like the other challenges that I seen on other sites. (hee-hee)

So here's the challenge:

1. You must make a Valentines Day project. (This can be a card, page, pouch.... it's up to you!)

2. You must use a stamp, and at least one punch.

3. You must use a brayer (if you do not have a brayer you can use a sponge)

4. You must have a least 4 layers.

5. You must use a brown color, a red color and a white color.

All the rest is up to you. You can use any other colors in your project as long as it contains brown, red and white.

I am going to use this challenge to help make Chris's Friendship cards for Valentines day. I will post pictures after they are done!

Have a great day crafting!

The Ruffners': WT202 Challenge

2009-01-22T14:28:00.000-08:00

Again I decided to scrapbook a page for my personal scrapbook. This page is made using retired SU! designer series paper, and an old photo from my grandmothers collection of family photos. This picture is of my grandmother (she is on top, in the middle), her children, her grandparents (on the left) and her mom and dad. There is one gentleman in the photo that I do not know, but that's ok!

In the back of the patterned paper I left a "pocket" opening that I used to insert a letter that was sent to my grandmother from Landisburg, Pa. on Feb. 8th, 1975. I used a blue circle from the patterned paper as a insert pull so it would be easier to retrieve the letter.

The page also full-fills the WT202 challenge from SCS. I used regular patterned paper and with a little help from a two way glue stick and some dazzling diamond glitter I was able to add a little pizzazz to my page.

This was such a great challenge and has many endless possiblities.

WT202 Challenge: Pizzazz it Up!

2009-01-22T11:13:00.000-08:00

Todays challenge comes straight from SCS. (I told you that this was one of my favorite sites!) Here are the rules:

If you're like me you love patterned paper. The more the better and those new glittered, flocked, or die-cut papers....well, I have a serious addiction. The problem is...they really lighten my wallet! I thought it would be fun to design a challenge around adding your own pizzazz to existing patterned paper. The challenge: Ways to Alter Patterned Paper. Make it special. You may want to glitter, emboss, heat emboss, flock, die-cut...whatever you can think of, some patterned paper that you have on hand to make it extra special. Just like that fancy specialty paper that carries the big $2-$3 price tag. Have fun! And in this economy...saving money always a plus! Just in case there is any question...you MUST use patterned paper to start and then customize it.

If you are interested in checking out what others have made please click here.

And, if you have taken on this challenge, then please send me a copy of, or a link to, your picture. I would love to see what you have done.

I am off to create now!

Happy Thursday,

Ana

Card Heart Card

2009-01-20T00:10:00.000-08:00

This card is for Challenge #3 from Late Night Stampers. I actually had enough time to finish it before I went to work so I am able to post it much earlier than I thought I would be able too.

I use the Love You Much bundle with Ruby Red, Real Red and Whisper White Cardstock. I only used Real Red Classic Ink.

I am going to make about 50 of these for my kids to take to school on Valentines Day. So, this challenge gave me what I needed to get started.

Hope you like it!:

Sundays Challenge

2009-01-19T09:40:00.000-08:00

SCS does not offer challenges on Sunday so I had to get this challenge straight from Late Night Stampers. So, are you ready to play? If so, here is the challenge:

In honor of Valentine's day...we challenge you to make a HEART shaped CARD, that MUST INCLUDE some form of CANDY!!!

It doesn't matter what color, size, etc--it just has to be heart shaped, with candy!!! And of course, all materials must be current Stampin' Up! only (except for the candy, of course - hehe)

I wont be able to get to this challenge, or any others until Thursday. But, if decide to take on this challenge please feel free to send me a link to your picture.

Also, today I am adding a link to all the other challenges that I have posted so far to the SCS albums that show case the projects all ready submitted! Take a look!!!

My Challenge Results: SC211 and LSC202

2009-01-19T09:11:00.000-08:00

I have been really behind on challenges lately. I was planning on getting caught up yesterday but I am still not feeling well, and yesterday was just a bad day.

I made this card using just a few supplies. I used Real Red, Whisper White and Ruby Red cardstock, Real Red Classic Ink, and the Love You Much Bundle Kit.

I am still behind by one old challenge and one new challenge (that I will post in a minute or two). As soon as I get those done I will post them with the recipe. I will also post two new challenges at the end of this week. One on Thursday and one on Friday.

Please feel free to play along, and if you do, please send me a link to your post!

Wednesday's Challenge: SC211

2009-01-13T21:43:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Challenge is to use this sketch as a guide to making a card.

I always LOVE sketch challenges. They open my eyes to new layouts which usually suprise me.

I'm posting this layout early so tomorrow morning (Wednesday) I will take on this challenge and hopefully the last two. Check back tomorrow evening to see what I have come up with!!!!!

To see more cards that use this sketch please click here!

CC201: Not Quite Sage

2009-01-13T21:24:00.000-08:00

Tuesday Challenge is to use the colors:

Not Quite Navy
Craft or Creamy Caramel
Sage Shadow

You can use these colors in any type of project... scrapbook, card, 3-D.

I will take on these challenge (and last weeks) tomorrow. Plus, I will also try to take on tomorrows challenge. (Maybe I will try to role them all into one!)

If you take on this challenge please send me a link to your posting. I'd love to see it!

To see other projects made using this guidelines please click here!

2009-01-13T17:38:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind on challenges right now. But, I really have a good reason why.... Really!

My son, Alex, is starting a Science Fair project. We have been busy the last week trying to come up with a good topic, and writing up a proposal for his science teacher.

Alex and I started a blog for his project today. You can visit it by clicking here. He will be updating the site as his project progresses (about once a week once he gets the ok).

I promise to be back tomorrow with some finished projects and two more challenges!

Ana

1/9/09: LSC202

2009-01-09T10:48:00.000-08:00

Today's challenge is to use hearts, but this is a limited supply challenge so don't go crazy with your design. Here are the rules:

Here is your challenge...to use a heart...any heart!

*Stamps: Any (bonus points for using a heart image!)
*Paper: any + red...any shade of red
*if you use a punch or die it must be heart shaped
*if you use embossing folders...they must have a heart
*if you use an accessory it MUST be heart shaped or red
*if you use designer paper...yup you guessed it, red or hearts!

I hope you enjoy the challenge, I had a lot of fun with it!

I will post my complete project later on today. And, like always, if you choose to play along please send me a link to your project!

To see more projects from this challenge, please click here!

Mousies Card

2009-01-04T15:18:00.000-08:00

I completed the challenge yesterday but was unable to post until today. I made this card off of the Mousies cake at Cake Nouveau. The card was made for my brother-in-law who just celebrated his 60th birthday!

The hardest part of making this card was punching all the holes. Use different size hole punches and you have instant cheese. I did use a retired stamp set. The bigs holes were sponged after they were punched with a dark shade of yellow (Yo Yo Yellow sponged on So Saffron). If you need or want better instructions, please let me know!

There are no challenges today. Sorry! I will be back on Friday with a whole new challenge.

Until then,

Today's Challenge: IC161

2009-01-03T08:21:00.000-08:00

Todays challenge is to make a card, or scrapbook page, using the inspiration that you get from his website: www.cakenouveau.com

You do not have to recreate the cake just take inspiration from the colors and/or theme.

I am choosing to use Mousies off of page 4. I will post my card a little later today after its done.

Like always, if you choose to play along please send me a link to your card or page. I would love to see it.

To see cards from this challenge please click here...

SBVC57 Projects

2009-01-01T13:17:00.000-08:00

I ended up making 3 scrapbook pages for this challenge. I finished the 3rd project this morning. Before making the pages I decided to use old pictures of my grandmother. I was kind of nervous using pink and red with the black and white photos, but I really love how the pages turned out.

I will post a basic recipe for the 3 pages at the end of the pictures. I ended up using some non-SU! products to complete the pages (ie: straight pins, buttons, large pink eyelets and rick-a-rack).

I hope you enjoy the projects below:

Recipe:

Wild Rose Stamp Set

Real Red Hostess Designer Series Paper

Close to Cocoa Designer Series Paper

Pretty in Pink Cardstock

Real Red Cardstock

Close to Cocoa Cardstock

Pretty in Pink Classic Ink

Real Red Classic Ink

Old Olive Classic Ink

Stampin Glitter Chunky Sprinkles

Rhinestone Brads Fire Circles

Todays Challenge: SBVC57

2008-12-31T08:31:00.000-08:00

Here is todays challenge information. I decided to choose a scrapbook page instead of a card this week. This challenge is a little different and that's why I am posting exactly what SCS said.

**********

SBVC57...Party Time...12.31.08

Good morning scrappers and Happy New Years! While growing up, we didn't celebrate New Years, we had birthday parties. My paternal Grandfather's birthday was December 31st and maternal Grandmother's birthday was January 1st.

One last "Using our stash" challenge - We are going to revisit the recipe challenge I did 2 years ago for Halloween, except you are going to choose a cake instead of a full menu. After you've chosen your dessert, I'll PM you with your recipe. You must use the items listed (they aren't manufacture related, nor are they hard, so don't be scared away) You can add any "spices" (aka other items) to your layout. Feel free to do this challenge more than once as each recipe will be very different.

Dessert menu:

Angel Food Cake (ingredients: white cardstock, ribbon, a circle, handwritten journaling, flowers, and bling)

Carrot Cake (ingredients: orange, vanilla, sanding, stars, harware and buttons)

Cheesecake (ingredients: white and brown, felt, stampin, cut work, buttons and bling)

Chocolate Cake (ingredients: brown cardstock, swirls/flourishes, doodling, brads, chipboard and a quote)

Fruit Cake (ingredients: black background, stamping, hardware, buttons, chipboard, and the use of a punch)

Rainbow Chip Cake (ingredients: printed paper with rainbow colors, flowers, stitching, rub-ons, and ribbon)

Sponge Cake (ingredients: yellow, inking, flowers, stamping, ribbon, paper piercing)

Strawberry Shortcake (recipe below)

*********

So, I picked Strawberry Shortcake (mainly because I love strawberries and I thought I would like the colors). My ingredients are:

Pink

Red

Hardware

Inking

Bling

Ribbon

I am now off to create. And, as always, please feel free to join in. If you do, please send me a link to your project.

Here is a link to see other cards made for this challenge.

New Years Greetings,

Ana

Sizzix vs. Others

2008-12-30T15:09:00.000-08:00

I just received a posting from a fellow SU! demonstrator on the differences between the Sizzix/Big Shot, Cricut, Xyron and the Cuttlebug machines. I thought that this might be helpful to more people than myself so I am posting it to this blog.... Thanks June!:

The original Sizzix is similiar to the Big Shot in that it is a plain die cut machine. It's bulky and can only use dies made for the Sizzix. Our machine (Big Shot) is a roller machine. The original Sizzix is a crank thru.

The Cricut is a fancy typewriter. It's a bit like a word processor. You get a cartridge and a rubber mat that fits on the keyboard area. You type in the word, words or image that you want and select the size. Then you set the machine to cut. It cuts the letters you want in any size from 1/4 inch to 5 inches. Some cartridges have larger and smaller sizes. Cartridges cost about $100 each.

The Xyron is a sticker making machine. You can make any die cut, stamped image, picture, ribbon, or basically anything flat into a sticker. I have a small size that can use images about 1 inch wide and a medium sized machine that goes up to 3 1/2 inches wide. It's great when making large batches of card candy. Refills are available in temporary or permanent adhesive.

The Cuttlebug is a roller die cut and embossing machine. It's claim to fame is that you can use any die cut made for any of the other machines out there. You could also emboss paper with it and die cut the same paper in the same machine.

The Big Shot is similiar to the Cuttlebug but it is wider and can use the wider dies designed to make baskets and pennants. You can use any of the dies from other machines in it as well. Besides being wider, the other cool feature is that the adjustable cutting mat also has the sandwich lists on it. Basically, you don't have to go running to look for a sheet of paper anytime you want to cut something with another brand of die. Everything is right at your hand.

Cuttlebug and Big Shot are approx the same cost

CC199: A Light Unto My Path

2008-12-30T14:35:00.000-08:00

This is my creation for todays SCS challenge. I really like how this card turned out. I was really nervous about the colors but I really like the rich look of the finished project.

Card Recipe:

A Light Unto My Path

Whisper White Cardstock

Bravo Burgundy Cardstock

Handsome Hunter Cardstock

So Saffron Cardstock

Not Quite Navy Watercolor Crayon

Bravo Burgundy Watercolor Crayon

Handsome Hunter Watercolor Crayon

So Saffron Watercolor Crayon

Rich Regal Colored Buttons

Linen Thread

(Retired) Wine Ribbon

Ticket Corner Punch

SNAIL Adhesive

Mini Glue Dots

Blender Pens

Now, this card took a little more time to do then some of my other recent projects. I'm not going to fib to you about this, but I still think this is a card that a beginner can do. Of course, that beginner will need a few items in his/her stamp room.... Hey, but shopping for new, fun items to play with is half the fun.

Now its your turn. Show me your challenge projects!

Tuesdays Challenge: CC199 Saffron Burgunday Hunter

2008-12-30T12:03:00.000-08:00

Todays SCS challenge is to use the colors So Saffron, Bravo Burgandy, and Handsome Hunter in a design for a card (or scrapbook page). So, I am off to be inspired... Truthfully, I don't think these are colors I would use for myself but that's why these are called challenges.

If you need to be inspired also, you can visit the CC199 gallery on SCS by visiting this site: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/showgallery.php?mcats=all&si=cc199&what=allfields&name=&when=&whenterm=&condition=and

As always, if you are taking on this challenge too then please send me your finished pictures or a link to your project and I will add your link to the posting.

Have a great (and safe) New Year,
Ana

P.S. If you would like to see other projects made using this color combination please click here.

Smile 6x6 Page (SBSC170)

2008-12-26T17:42:00.000-08:00

I finished the challenge page for today. I altered the design a bit, but I still think the page came out very cute.

I am not going to post a recipe for this page because a lot of the items used are now discontinued, and (shame on me) the big brads are not SU!. I hope you like the page just the same though.

I will be back on Tuesday, January 30th with another SCS challenge. I hope you will join me then.

Ana

Todays Challenge: SBSC170

2008-12-26T14:56:00.000-08:00

Todays SCS challenge is to use the sketch below to make a scrap book page. Now the challenge does not state what size this needs to be. I am sure that most who take on this challenge will use the standard 12x12 size.... but I hardly use that size myself. So, I am going to try to scale this down to fit a 6x6 page.

I will try to finish this challenge tonight. Today is my only day off work, and I have to wash my work clothes.... oh, and did I mention, I still have the flu?

If you decided to take on this challenge, please send me your link.... or even a picture of your masterpiece! And, if you need a little more inspiration please click here to see what others have made.

Thanks, Ana

Challenge SC208: Birthday Whimsy

2008-12-24T11:52:00.001-08:00

Again today I decided to use a retired Sell-A-Bration set from last year. This set is called Birthday whimsy. I also added to the SCS challenge by telling my self that I could only use scraps of paper that I had left over from other cards that I have made. This is what I came up with:

Recipe:

Birthday Whimsy Stamp Set

Whisper White Cardstock

Certainly Celery Cardstock

Regal Rose Cardstock

Tempting Turquoise Cardstock

Tempting Turquoise Classic Ink

Basic Black Classic Ink

Certainly Celery Stampin Write Marker

Tempting Turquoise Stampin Write Marker

Regal Rose Stampin Write Marker

So Saffron Stampin Write Marker

Earth Elements Eyelets

Stampin Dimensionals

Crop-A-Dile

SNAIL Adhesive

I will not be posting tomorrow. It is Christmas, and I have to work in the afternoon. On Friday I will join in on the SCS challenge, and post Christmas pictures.

Have a Merry Christmas everyone!

Todays Challenge: 12-24-08

2008-12-24T10:17:00.000-08:00

Todays challenge is again from SCS (seriously, if you haven't visited their site.... you need too!). The challenge is to use the following sketch to create a card:

This is going to be an interesting challenge, but shouldn't be to hard. Now, I just have to start working on it.

As always, if you decided to join in the challenge then please comment to this post with a link to your picture. If need more inspiration to make you vision to come true please click here to see what others have made.

Merry Christmas Eve,

Friendship Blooms: SCS Challenge

2008-12-23T18:51:00.000-08:00

This is my creation for todays SCS challenge.

Recipe:

Friendship Blooms Stamp Set

Cameo Coral

Orchid Opulence

So Saffron

Ice Circle Rhinestone Brads

Cameo Coral Classic Ink

Basic Black Classic Ink

Orchid Opulence Stampin Write Marker

So Saffron Stampin Write Marker

Pop-up Dots

SNAIL Adhesive

Todays Challenge: 12-23-08

2008-12-23T10:39:00.000-08:00

Todays challenge comes straight from SCS. The challenge is titled So Coral Opulence (CC198) and the rules are pretty simple. You have to design something that uses So Saffron, Cameo Coral, and Orchid Opulence.

Well this is going to be fun. I am off to find the stamp set that I want to use, grab the paper, and start designing. I will post the card, scrap book page, or 3 D when its done.....

Oh and by the way, if you decide to take on this challenge too then please comment to this posting with the link to your picture.

If you would like to see what others have made, please click here!

Inky Hugs, Ana

I'm BACK!!!!

2008-12-22T23:10:00.000-08:00

After a little pause in my blogging life and my stamping life, I'm back. Please don't ask me why I ever left. Mainly because I really don't have any answers.

Right after Convention I kind of lost momentum. I know that is not what Convention is suppost to do for us stampers but for some reason.... the "umph!" was just gone.

Then I started working at a new job. Not just any job but a new job working the 11pm to 7am shift at a local nursing home. So, now when I was home I was either sleeping or wishing I was sleeping. After 3 months of working that trying shift I am now on a more normal shift of 3pm to 11pm.

To top everything off, we finally found out why my youngest son was always getting sick. He was in kidney failure. Thankfully though, Chris had surgery on November 17th (9 days after he turned 5) and he is doing great.

So, maybe all of these things that happened shortly after Convention had a snow ball effect on my stamping life and over all happiness. But, no matter what, I am back.

I am starting slowly this time though. I am not jumping in with selling, and classes to start with. Right now I am starting with stamping on my days off.... This means that I will be taking place in SCS challenges and possibly challenges on Shelli's Blog.

My first day with this "new" phase in my life will begin tomorrow. TWO DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS (after all, I didn't even send out Christmas cards this year!). Please join me tomorrow to see what challenge I am planning on taking on and what I make to meet the challenge.

Oh, and.... another challenge I have to face is my stamping room. It has become a junk room where everything gets put instead of being put away. I will post pictures of this black hole over the next few days and start working on the great transformation. And, if any of you have any idea's on how to help transform my mess into success please feel free to post.

New Up Coming Classes

2008-10-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

Things have finally settled down here on the home front and I am now able to schedual two classes. If you are interested in joining any of the following please let me know. Each class will be full at a total of 8 people.

Altered Scrap Book Class

This month we will be making two books... to make up for not having a class last month. The first book will be made out of drink coasters and the second one will be an accordian book.

Class Date: October 18, 2008 @ 11:00am till 3:00pm
Class Cost: $10.00
Pictures will be posted from the class within 1 week from the class date.

Christmas Tag Class

This will be the first of 3 days set aside to work on our Christmas Tags. We will be using a group of current and retired stamp sets to make our tags. Each person will be able to make up to 30 tags for the class cost. If you need more tags let me know and I will give you a special price for the extra you need.

Class Date: October 19, 2008 @ 10:00am till 2:00pm
Class Cost: $10.00
Pictures from the class will be posted within 1 week from the class date.

P.S. Chris is doing better. We are waiting for his surgery date which should be within the next month. Thank you for all your prayers and well wishes.

A Personal Note

2008-08-31T21:32:00.000-07:00

I just want to take a minute or two and let you all know what I have been dealing with the last week. On Wednesday, August 27, 2008 I recieved a phone call from my 4 year olds school nurse. She informed me that Chris was not feeling well and she needed me to come in to the school to take him home. As most of you know, Chris has been sick for about 2 years now. He has been having episodes of nausea and vomiting and stomach pain since right after his 2nd birthday. So, I wasn't too worried about this new episode but found it more of a good sign. See, the doctors and I have been trying to figure out why he has been getting sick and Chris was set for a CT scan on Friday of that week. I was hoping that the scan could be moved up to that day, and set off for the hospital. Up till this point we thought Chris had intussusception but where unable to diagnose it. The doctors thought that this was in part of not having any tests down during an episode.

12 hours later we found out that Chris was being transfered from St. Mary's Hospital to Loma Linda Acute Peds unit via an ambulance. He was in kidney failure!

Before Chris was born I was told that he had hydronephrosis. After I delivered Chris I seen two separate doctors and both told me that if Chris did have hydronephrosis we would see signs and then they would run the tests needed to diagnose it. But, until those signs were present it wasn't wise to subject Chris to the large amounts of radiation that the scans produced. By the time Chris was two and started having his episodes we had kind of forgotten about the hydronephrosis. Matter of fact, we never told his current doctor about this pre-birth diagnosis. So, during each episode Chris had we all were looking for something different.

Well, it turns out that the kidney failure was caused by the hydronephrosis.

After two days at Loma Linda we got good news. My baby was sick, but the kidney failure was not as serious as first thought. Both kidneys were functioning at a total of 90%. The right kidney is filtering the blood but not draining. It is 13.5 cm in size when it should be 7 cm. The left kidney has multiple cysts (tumors). But, the kidneys are working. The doctors were actually surprised due to the fact that these attacks, or episodes, have been occuring for the last 2 years and usually that length of time means that one of both kidneys can be severely damaged. Plus, Chris has a 2mm kidney stone.

Chris was discharged from Loma Linda on Friday. He has a long road ahead of him. Over the next week we have to see his primary care doctor for a follow up, and he also has to see a specialist in Loma Linda for a pre-surgery consult. The following week, Chris needs to have surgery to place a shunt between the right kidney and the bladder. If this procedure decreases the size of his kidney another surgery will be performed to put the shunt in for good. If the kidney does not decrease in size we will have to figure out what to do next. After the right kidney is decreased we will move on to the cysts in the left kidney.

For all of you who know Chris personally, please know that he is doing well right now. He is almost back to his old self. He does have a lot of pain still and is on medication. He is hoping to go back to school on Tuesday.

I would like to thank all of you for the prayers. I truely believe that God had a hand in Chris's good news this past week.

August's Altered Scrapbook Class

2008-08-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

I have had a problem posting lately due to a few firsts in my life. I will tell you all about these firsts in a minute but I wanted to take a minute to share the new altered scrapbook that we made this past weekend.

I got this idea from Convention this year. I didn't finish my scrapbook yet, eventhough I usually do before each class, but I can tell you that everyone in the class had wonderful looking books when they were finished.

Each scrapbook was made with a total of 7 pages and one pull out. I suggested to each class mate that they use the pull out for journaling. But, like everything else I do, I also made the comment that they could do what every they wanted. A couple of the girls used the insert as a place to hold tickets for the event they placed in the album. All very cute ideas!

This album was made with two envelopes bound together with a ribbon. If you would like step by step instructions for this project, or if you would like information about joining next months class, please let me know. Just send an e-mail to me at ana4stampin@aol.com or give me a call at 760-713-3708.

Now for my firsts! This month was the start of some great firsts for me. My kids went to their first day of school (after 4 years of being homeschooled). And, I started my first job as an LVN (after not working away from home in over 5 years).

The boys were very excited about their first. They are now into their 3 week of school and both of them seem to be thriving.

My new job is kind-of exciting. I am trying to get the hang of it.... and trying to remember all the things I am suppost to do through out the day. I am working at a local nursing home on the night shift. Yes, that means that while you are all at home suggled into your beds, I am up working. These new hours are taking a bit to get use to but I am sure that I will be ok.

The only bad things about my new job is the fact that I am going to have to juggle some of my SU! classes around. So keep posted and I will let each of you know about up coming classes as they are known to me.

Hope you all enjoyed this new project. And, like always, if this inspired you to make your own send me a picture of what you have made.

Ana

New Links

2008-08-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

I have just added a couple new links to this page. Now you can view our new Fall~Winter 2008 Idea Book and Catalog just by clicking on the picture on the right side of the page. This link will open up a .pdf file that you can use to view the new catalog, and make a wish list that is all yours. You can even save the file on your computer to view at a later time.

The other link I just added is for a stamp sale. Stampin' UP! is offering some of the new stamp sets just released at a great price. Click on the link to view the sets being offered and then view them through the online catalog. If you see something you just cant live without, let me know and I will order them for you.

Celebrate Coffee Cup

2008-08-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

This years SU! convention logo has really touched me. Not only is it SU! 20th year and their reason to celebrate; but, it is also the year that I finished school and became a nurse, which is my reason to celebrate.

I actually had one printed logo left from making my convention swaps so after I came home from convention I decided to use it for my coffee mug. Ok! If you really know me you know that I am not a big coffee drinker so I am planning on using this mug for my water, or soda.

Legacy Room

2008-07-31T17:56:00.000-07:00

I am actually about a day behind on my posts here, but I promise I will get everything posted. I have tons of pictures to show all of you that I hope will help you all become even more excited about stamping.

But, before any sneak peaks (ok... there will be one sneak peak in the pictures below) I want to show you some great new ideas straight from SU! These ideas came from there Legacy Room at the main office.

Day 2 - Check In Day

2008-07-30T18:12:00.000-07:00

Today was check in day and all I have to say is LINES, LINES, LINES.....

Part of the line behind us while we were waiting for the Momento Mall to open.

Linda Nelson-Barr and I got to the Salt Palace at 7:15am. When we arrived there was already a line for the Momento Mall. Luckly, we were only about the 100th person in line when the doors opened. By the time the Mall was ready to open the end of the line was told they would have to wait about 2 1/2 hours to start shopping.

Swapping.... It's what we do!

After we left the Mall, Linda and I went into the Gathering Place. Linda had an award to pick up (she hit the 20K mark in sales!), and I had to get my name tag.

Momento Mall sneak peak.

By the time noon rolled around Linda and I had already gotten our bags, and had taken pictures of the display boards located at the back of the Momento Mall. Now, we were heading to Riverton to see, once again, the Riverton Campus. I was very excited to ride in the bus for the 20 minutes it took to get to the campus because, by this time, my feet were KILLING me.

Inside the Momento Mall, these were two of my favorite items.

Once at the Riverton Campus I was very happy to see the new Legacy Room. The pictures, and home decorating ideas were just great. But, unfortunately this year, we were unable to see Shelli's office or help with the picking lines.

After the 20 minute return ride back to the Salt Palace, Linda and I walked to Subway for a quick bite to eat. It is really amazing how quickly you forget to eat when you are busy having fun.

I cannot wait until tomorrow's general conference, and classes.

I will try to update again tomorrow evening. Look at the Legacy Room post to see pictures of some great new ideas straight from SU!

Banner Happy

2008-07-30T17:30:00.000-07:00

One of the things I think I like most this year about Convention is all the banners. I love the colors, the arrangements, and the amount.

Not only is the convention center full of banners, but the streets, and the Riverton Campus.

So, the one thing I really want from convention this year.... a banner! (Like that will happen!!!!)

I hope you enjoy them too!

Convention Day 1

2008-07-30T16:58:00.000-07:00

Taken on the main corner of the convention center.

Outside the main doors where the windchimes sound.

We got into SLC on 7-30-08 around 5:30pm. After resting for a few minutes Linda and I decided to walk around the town.

Over view area of the bus arrival/departure area for the Riverton Tour.

I was able to get a lot of nice pictures of the Salt Palace. I think the night time pictures of the Convention Center are very pretty.

Across the street from the main entrance.

More updates to come!

Again, another photo taken across the street from the main entrance.

Convention Tags

2008-07-27T17:05:00.000-07:00

I made 4 Convention tags for myself, my upline, her upline and her side line. I wanted to make something that we could attach to our bags so that we can tell our bags from the 1,000's of others that will be laying around. I kind of copied Patty Bennett's tags when making mine. I decided that I wanted to use the SU! convention banner and matching paper to help make them fit in more!

I hope you like them.... I really do!

Simple Birthday's

2008-07-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today's SplitCoast challenge was to make a birthday card. Sounds simple enough, but there was more to it than that.

It had to be a birthday card. You could not use more than 4 layers in your design. And, the toughest part, you could only use stamp pads.... no coloring of any type. As for embellishments, you could only use ribbon. If you decided to use paper piecing to give color to your design, all the paper piecing would count as one layer.

So know that you know the rules, are you in? Well, I was and here is what I made:

Card Recipe:

Big Birthday Candle Stamp Set, Taken with Teal Cardstock, YoYo Yellow Cardstock, Old Olive Cardstock, Confetti Simply Scrappin', and 1/4 Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon

I GOT GOOD NEWS!!!!!!

2008-07-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

I just found out today that I PASSED my NCLEX exam! Yeah, I am now an official Vocational Nurse in the state of California.

Thank you everyone for all the support and prayers over the last year and a half!

Now, the next step is my RN/BSN.....

Hugs! Ana

70 Uses for Eyelets.

2008-07-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

I just received this list from fellow SU! demonstrator Aimee, so I thought I would share. You can visit Aimee's site to she her 71 submission on this list.

70 uses for eyelets:
1. connectors on paper piecing for moveable parts
2. attaching vellum
3. accents on journal blocks
4. to "hang" things from
5. center of flowers
6. center of letters
7. spell out words (outline letters)
8. corners of picture mat
9. eyes of paper dolls
10. nails in a fence
11. earrings for a paper doll
12. belly button jewel for a paper doll
13. "stone" in a ring
14. buttons on a snowman
15. decoration on a child's ball
16. stepping stones on a garden layout
17. attach a fiber to a brad to make a yo-yo
18. attach elements on a page by wrapping wire or fiber
19. to form "bullets" for a list of things
20. as an accent on the tail of a letter
21. in the hole of a tag
22. white - as stars on a black or navy blue sky
23. white - as dropping snowflakes
24. light blue - as falling raindrops
25. orange - as pumpkins
26. white - as moonbeams
27. jeweled belt on a paper doll
28. brown - as chocolate chips on a cookie
29. toppings on a pizza
30. M & Ms
31. buttons on a shirt
32. decorations on an Easter egg
33. decorations on a Christmas tree
34. purple - grapes in a cornucopia
35. lights on top of a police car or fire truck
36. center of a pinwheel
37. center of tires
38. tires on a toy car
39. end of antenna on a bug
40. center of fiber spider web
41. hair ornament on a girl paper doll
42. the "dot" on an i or j
43. attach handle to a basket
44. to attach fibers or lacing something together
45. attach a sign to a post
46. rocks
47. center of propeller on an airplane
48. on serendipity squares
49. sesame seeds on a bun
50. jeweled skirt on a paper doll
51. use as a spider and paint a face on it with the legs behind it or usewire for it's legs
52. dots on a ladybug
53. as fillers
54. use as nails on wood (like haunted house windows)
55. Christmas Bulbs on a tree paper piecing
56. eye on a frog
57. use to embellish the corner of tags or
58. borders or
59. titles
60. Attach fabric, twistel or lace to paper
61. use star brads to replicate a night sky
62. ends of a hammock
63. use on butterfly wings
64. oval nail heads as Easter Eggs
65. Buttons on a dress
66. shoe buckle
67. dots on a clown suit doll or paper piecing
68. sprinkles on an ice cream cone
69. sprinkles on a cupcake
70. use seashell nail heads on paper torn sand paper to create a beach look

Negative Challenge

2008-07-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

I was on Splitcoast today and noticed that today's challenge was to "think negative". The hostess of the challenge wanted us to use the negative spaces left over from chipboard, punches, ect. to create our project. I have never actually done any of Splitcoasts challenges but today I thought I should. Mainly because I have some chipboard that is now retiring that I wanted to use.

I have been wanting to make a name plate for a while now to put on our family picture wall. As this challenge inspired me I thought today would be the perfect day to make that name plate. I used retired paper to make the name plate mainly because this is for my own use. I hope you all like the design, and I hope that it inspires you to "think negative" too.

P.S. The "W" is not covered with paper. I actually used my brayer to cover the chipboard with Chocolate Chip Classic Ink. I then wheeled "It's Beautiful" over the top in Creamy Caramel followed by "Forever Flowers" in White. After it dryed, I covered the whole letter in VersaMark and embossed it using Clear Embossing Powder. Even though you can not see it well in the picture, the letter has a lot of depth to it, and the Creamy Caramel gives it a great subtle effect.

SALE: 20% off

2008-07-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

From now until August 10, I am offering you a discount price on all SU! retiring stamp sets and accessories. I will give you a total of 20% off (after taxes, and shipping). This discount will include your entire order! Even on current, non-retiring items. And, this offer will give you an even bigger discount if you are ordering any of the already marked down accessories that SU! is offering.

This offers you a wonderful way to save some much needed money... to maybe put into your gas tank.

Your orders will be delivered to your home, or where ever you want, by UPS usually within 7 to 10 days from the time you order.

If you have any questions about this great offer, please contact me by e-mail at: ana4stampin@aol.com or by phone at 760-713-3708.

Ana

Retired Accessory List

2008-07-21T10:16:00.000-07:00

Here it is. The final retired list of SU! 2008 year. Some of this stuff I will surely miss.

These items go fast, so if you are interested please contact me today at ana4stampin@aol.com.

item #: 109200
page #: 177
product: Accents & Elements Build A Flower

item #: 110718
page #: 177
product: Accents & Elements Lucky Star

item #: 110719
page #: 177
product: Accents & Elements Messenger

item #: 103158
page #: 184
product: Acrylic Graph & Grid

item #: 108638
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 12 X 12 In Color

item #: 108642
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Blue Bayou

item #: 108643
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Groovy Guava

item #: 108637
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 In Color

item #: 108640
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 River Rock

item #: 108639
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Soft Sky

item #: 108641
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Wild Wasabi

item #: 108644
page #: 163
product: Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Purely Pomegranate

item #: 103975
page #: 166
product: Card Stock Brushed Copper

item #: 108694
page #: 163
product: Card Stock Textured 12 X 12 In Color

item #: 107312
page #: 167
product: Cards & Envelopes Gift Whisper White

item #: 107292
page #: 167
product: Cards & Envelopes Greeting Whisper White

item #: 109116
page #: 167
product: Notes & Envelopes Long Notes

item #: 109118
page #: 167
product: Notes & Envelopes Love Notes

item #: 109117
page #: 167
product: Notes & Envelopes Pocket Notes*

item #: 110729
page #: 167
product: Notes & Envelopes Scallop Notes

item #: 109119
page #: 167
product: Notes & Envelopes Gift Notes

item #: 109018
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Ink Blue Bayou

item #: 109019
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Ink Groovy Guava

item #: 109017
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Ink Purely Pomegranate

item #: 109016
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Ink River Rock

item #: 109015
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Ink Soft Sky

item #: 109020
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Ink Wild Wasabi

item #: 109013
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Pad Blue Bayou

item #: 109012
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Pad Groovy Guava

item #: 109011
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Pad Purely Pomegranate

item #: 109010
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Pad River Rock

item #: 109009
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Pad Soft Sky

item #: 109014
page #: 163
product: Classic Stampin' Pad Wild Wasabi

item #: 110751
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Azure*

item #: 110696
page #: 169
product: Designer Series Paper Bali Breeze

item #: 110749
page #: 169
product: Designer Series Paper Berry Bliss

item #: 109154
page #: 169
product: Designer Series Paper Cutie Pie

item #: 110699
page #: 168
product: Designer Series Paper East Coast Prep*

item #: 109160
page #: 170
product: Designer Series Paper Fall Flowers

item #: 109159
page #: 169
product: Designer Series Paper Flowers For You*

item #: 110697
page #: 169
product: Designer Series Paper Ginger Blossom

item #: 110479
page #: 168
product: Designer Series Paper Jersey Shore*

item #: 109151
page #: 170
product: Designer Series Paper Le Jardin

item #: 110748
page #: 170
product: Designer Series Paper Notebook*

item #: 110750
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Olive Press

item #: 109153
page #: 170
product: Designer Series Paper Porcelain Prints*

item #: 109175
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Almost Amethyst*

item #: 109177
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Always Artichoke

item #: 109173
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Blue Bayou

item #: 109174
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Brilliant Blue

item #: 109178
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Certainly Celery

item #: 109169
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Close to Cocoa*

item #: 109168
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Groovy Guava*

item #: 109171
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Lovely Lilac

item #: 109172
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints More Mustard

item #: 109176
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Old Olive

item #: 109170
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Pumpkin Pie

item #: 109164
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints River Rock*

item #: 109167
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Rose Red

item #: 109166
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints So Saffron

item #: 109165
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Soft Sky

item #: 109163
page #: 171
product: Designer Series Paper Prints Tempting Turquoise

item #: 110698
page #: 168
product: Designer Series Paper Spring Break

item #: 110273
page #: 169
product: Designer Series Paper Spring Fling*

item #: 110271
page #: 170
product: Designer Series Paper Spring Silhouettes

item #: 110272
page #: 170
product: Designer Series Paper Western Sky

item #: 107299
page #: 167
product: Envelope Confetti Cream Medium

item #: 105320
page #: 189
product: Eyelets Basic

item #: 100375
page #: 189
product: Eyelets Bold Brights

item #: 100381
page #: 189
product: Eyelets Earth Elements

item #: 107233
page #: 189
product: Eyelets Fresh Favorites I

item #: 107234
page #: 189
product: Eyelets Fresh Favorites II

item #: 105316
page #: 189
product: Eyelets Rich Regals

item #: 100378
page #: 189
product: Eyelets Soft Subtles

item #: 105515
page #: 188
product: Hodgepodge Hardware Pewter
Status: Not Available

item #: 105531
page #: 188
product: Hodgepodge Hardware Antique Brass

item #: 105532
page #: 188
product: Hodgepodge Hardware Aged Copper

item #: 101120
page #: 183
product: Metallic Art Pencils

item #: 107307
page #: 179
product: On Board Accents

item #: 109181
page #: 178
product: On Board Blossoms & Basic

item #: 109179
page #: 178
product: On Board Ginormous Pieces

item #: 107306
page #: 179
product: On Board Simon Lower

item #: 102678
page #: 166
product: Mulberry Paper White

item #: 109227
page #: 181
product: Punch Box Three For You

item #: 102686
page #: 180
product: Punch Handheld Rectangle

item #: 100271
page #: 183
product: Pure Color Pencils

item #: 109060
page #: 191
product: Ribbon Double-Stitched Blue Bayou
Status: Not Available

item #: 109063
page #: 191
product: Ribbon Double-Stitched Groovy Guava

item #: 109061
page #: 191
product: Ribbon Double-Stitched Purely Pomegranate
Status: Not Available

item #: 109062
page #: 191
product: Ribbon Double-Stitched River Rock*

item #: 109059
page #: 191
product: Ribbon Double-Stitched Soft Sky

item #: 109058
page #: 191
product: Ribbon Double-Stitched Wild Wasabi

item #: 109189
page #: 190
product: Ribbon Originals Beachfront*

item #: 109187
page #: 190
product: Ribbon Originals District*

item #: 109188
page #: 190
product: Ribbon Originals Fairy Tale

item #: 109185
page #: 190
product: Ribbon Originals Jersey*

item #: 109184
page #: 190
product: Ribbon Originals Sherbert

item #: 109186
page #: 190
product: Ribbon Originals Theater

item #: 110716
page #: 191
product: Ribbon Striped Grosgrain Wild Wasabi*

item #: 110281
page #: 182
product: Rub-Ons Cherished Memories*

item #: 110284
page #: 182
product: Rub-Ons Eastern Elegance*

item #: 110285
page #: 182
product: Rub-Ons Urban West*

item #: 110557
page #: 174
product: Simply Scrappin' Boho Blend

item #: 109610
page #: 174
product: Simply Scrappin' Confetti

item #: 110572
page #: 172
product: Simply Scrappin' Crew Kids Boy

item #: 110567
page #: 173
product: Simply Scrappin' Crew Kids Girl

item #: 109597
page #: 175
product: Simply Scrappin' Home Again

item #: 110562
page #: 174
product: Simply Scrappin' Rose Cottage

item #: 109648
page #: 173
product: Simply Scrappin' Special Delivery Boy

item #: 109627
page #: 173
product: Simply Scrappin' Special Delivery Girl

item #: 110587
page #: 175
product: Simply Scrappin' Summer Days

item #: 110577
page #: 175
product: Simply Scrappin' Tie The Knot

item #: 111184
page #: 15
product: Simply Sent Friendly Notes

item #: 109228
page #: 16
product: Simply Sent Simple Delights
Status: Not Available

item #: 109229
page #: 16
product: Simply Sent Three Thoughts
Status: Not Available

item #: 106662
page #: 197
product: Stampin'Around Wheel Daisy Field

item #: 107561
page #: 197
product: Stampin'Around Wheel Garden Annuals

item #: 109681
page #: 197
product: Stampin'Around Wheel Good Dog

item #: 109678
page #: 197
product: Stampin'Around Wheel Kisses

item #: 107482
page #: 197
product: Stampin'Around Wheel Lily Pad

item #: 109680
page #: 197
product: Stampin'Around Wheel Meow

item #: 109677
page #: 197
product: Stampin'Around Wheel Mistletoe

item #: 106610
page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Basics Outline

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page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Birthday

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product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Dilly Dally Baby

item #: 109570
page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Dilly Dally Friends

item #: 109569
page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Dilly Dally Party

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page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Leaves A La Carte

item #: 107468
page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Nature Hike

item #: 108980
page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Petals

item #: 107464
page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Rough Texture

item #: 111261
page #: 196
product: Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Spunky Spots

item #: 109554
page #: 193
product: Stampin' Color Index Labels

item #: 106694
page #: 194
product: Stampin' Kids Markers

item #: 101399
page #: 185
product: Stipple Brushes

item #: 102673
page #: 183
product: Zig Painty

*These items are being offered to you at 25% off their normal price.

All About Re-Inkers

2008-07-17T11:23:00.000-07:00

I have added a new section to my techniques area. The new section is all about re-inkers, hence the title.

This section will show tips to use your re-inks. Yes, more then just re-inking your stamp pads. I am also hoping to show pictures, if not how-to's on each tip that is shown. But, of course, that will take some time. So, please be patient with me.

All About the Punches

2008-07-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

I just added a new section under Techniques. Even though this new blog is not really about any stamping technique it does show different ways that you can use your punches. I am hoping to show step-by-step directions over the next few months that will show you exactly how some of the designs showcased on the site where made. Keep checking back often to see what's new.

I decided to add this page because I love paper piecing . I think it is a very unique and creative way to add depth to any project. And, even though using punches isn't the original way to paper piece, I think it's close enough.

If you have any projects that you have done, that you would like me to add to the new page please let me know. I will be happy to do so.

Ana

Mosaic Card

2008-07-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

I first started this card when this stamp set was still current. I got the idea from Technique Gunkies. I like the way the card finally turned out, but I think if I ever re-do this technique it will be with bigger pieces (and of course a newer stamp set).

To seal the pieces when I was completely done with the card I used a versamark pad and clear embossing powder.

July's Altered Scrapbook Class

2008-07-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

July's Altered Scrapbook Class is on this coming Saturday. This month we are making badge holder books. I decided that we will be using only In Color colors to complete our books and told everyone who is joining me on Saturday to bring 8 to 10 small pictures that relate to an outdoor activity, or event.

My demo book has 12 pages (made with 6 badge holders) but each "student" will be making a book with 8 total pages (made with 4 badge holders). Each "student" will also recieve a full color, step-by-step handout with instructions on how to make their books and what sizes their cardstock needs to be cut too.

If you are interested in purchasing a class planner (full with step-by-step directions, pictures, and customer handouts) please let me know. If you are interested in joining us for an upcoming class please contact me at: ana4stampin@aol.com.

Décor Elements

2008-07-07T19:33:00.001-07:00

Introducing Décor Elements… Stampin' Up!'s new addition to our Definitely Decorative product line! Our Décor Elements designs coordinate with many of our exciting products, so you can combine them to make beautiful, handcrafted home décor pieces. Personalize your surroundings with a variety of exclusive images designed to create a customized, unique space. With our self-adhesive vinyl elements (which are easy to apply and remove), you'll discover how easy and cost effective it can be to do your own decorating!

For more details and your very own décor elements catalog, contact me today: ana4stampin@aol.com

I have been TAGGED!

2008-07-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by Amiee! Her blog is located at: http://stampingwithaimee.blogspot.com/. Check it out!

So, here are 7 weird and random facts about me:

1. Like Amiee, I am addicted to Stampin' Up! Seriously! Whenever my husband and I get a few extra dollars the only thing I can think to spend it on is Stampin' Up! I will even spend the whole day planning on how to spend the money wisely. If my spending plans fall through, I get very sad. It's my crack.... hee-hee. Plus, I wake up in the middle of night with ideas for new projects. I just wish I had the time to do them all.

2. I live in the High Desert of California, but I hate the heat. When the weather gets over 90 degrees I cannot function. I get headaches, and very grumpy. I will even sleep all day when it's hot.... which is hard to do with 2 homeschooled kids. And, it's even worse right now because my air conditioner is about 20 years old, does not work well, and freezes over every chance it gets.

3. I love video games. I am in my 30's and if I am not playing with stamps and paper I am playing video games.

4. I use to work for different Democratic parties when I was in college. It's true. I use to believe that I wanted to be a political journalist when I was younger. I volunteered for many campaigns and was a paid employee for others. I ended up getting pregnant though and was unable to land an internship with a large newspaper during my 2nd year in college so I gave up. I now am a mom of two boys and I am waiting for my results of my nursing test through the NCSBN so I can become a nurse.

5. This is not really about me but more my family: My mom and I both got pregnant in the same month with our first child, both in June. My husband and his brother are 7 years apart. My boys are seven years apart.

6. I have to redecorate or at the least move furniture around in my house every 3 to 4 months or I get antsy. Really, if I don't have the change, I start thinking about moving, shopping, or ripping out my flooring. It is a serious thing... so my husband gives in and literally starts moving the furniture in and out of rooms for me every couple of months.

7. I love lighthouses. I have a collection of over 100 different types and I belong to the Lighthouse Society of America. I am even planning vacations around different lighthouses around the US and Canada. I want to visit all of them before I die. My dream would be to purchase an old retired lighthouse and live in it. I even own lighthouse jewelry. My husband just smiles and goes along with it. (He is just too sweet!)

I am now tagging these people:

Susan and Stamps: http://susanandstamps.blogspot.com/

Super Chick Scraps: http://www.superchickscraps.blogspot.com/

Stamping Spot: http://www.stampingspot.blogspot.com/

Stamping in the Desert: http://stampinginthedesert.com/

Stamping 101: http://stamping101.blogspot.com/

Stamping Marathon: http://stampinctc.blogspot.com/

Nuts for Stampin': http://nuts4stampin.typepad.com/

2 Picture Photo Block

2008-07-03T21:07:00.001-07:00

I have been trying to use up some of my old, retired paper lately. I have tons of it…. which I don't mind using for samples but not for classes… just laying around and taking up space. So, yesterday I set out to use a couple of pieces. This is what I came up with. (The pictures came out a little dark, sorry about that!)

The self adhesive die cuts are from a couple of old Simply Scrapping Kits, and so is the paper.

I love making this photo blocks. I really like the way I turn a simple piece of wood into something that can be displayed on my coffee table or mantel. When I first started making altered scrap books I really had a problem keeping my pictures protected. It didn't matter if it was a photo block, or photo box. Within just a couple of months the photos would start to look scratched and worn. So, I set out to find a solution. The solution was actually simple. Now I just use window sheets over my photos to protect them. It works wonders, and the best part is I think the brads and eyelets I use to set the window sheets to the photos really add something to the pieces I am creating. I hope this helps all of you.

Altered Scrap Book Class

2008-07-01T17:21:00.001-07:00

My last Altered Scrap Book Class was held on July 19, 2008. We made a 12 page paper bag album. This book is much bigger than most of the projects that we do, and the biggest paper bag album that I have ever made. These are always so much fun to make, and very easy to make. Here are the pictures of this month's projects.

This is the first page of the album. We used Spring Song as our stamp set.

Here are the second and third pages in the album. This album has a total of 6 inserts to use for journaling or potential spots for photos.

This is a picture of the second insert. I actually forgot to take a picture of the first insert, which lays inside the bottom fold of the bag. (It is the insert in the 2^nd picture with the green tag.)

The fourth page was designed just for a small photo or a little pause for journaling. The fifth page I decided to just have an element. I tried to mirror the pages with the colors that were used.

The sixth and seventh pages kind of resemble the second and third pages. These two pages include more inserts, which I really love!

Here are the two inserts that are part of the sixth and seventh pages.

This is a picture of the eighth and ninth pages. I decided to design these pages to leave a lot of room for pictures and journaling.

This group of pages has a simple insert.

The tenth and eleventh pages bring in a design element from the first couple of pages. This page also includes the last insert of this project.

Our last insert actually has a saying stamped on the page. Throughout the album I tried to keep the sayings out so that each customer could personalize each album to their own needs. For this insert I just couldn't resist.

And, finally, our last page. Instead of leaving the page blank I decided to add a few pieces of cardstock to help make this album last.

This album did take about 3 hours to complete, once all the cardstock was cut. This is a little bit longer than my classes normally take but this was a larger project.

If you are interested in joining us for next month's class, contact me at ana4stampin@aol.com. Next month's class will be held on August 16^th, 2008.

My Stamping Spot

Dustin's Owl Project....DONE!

Dustin's Note Papers

Got a new computer...and I am working on a lil' project

Scrapbook Class

I Think I'm In LOVE With This Set

Cool Pattern

Wanted to Share: Just Believe

2-5-7-10 Box

This is one of my favorite boxes to make for Hostess Gifts and for little trinkets for my friends and family. It is easy to make, and fun to decorate. Enjoy!

2-5-7-10 Box

by Jenn Balcer

Supplies

Step-by-Step

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

Step 11

Step 12

Stamp Organization

Stamp Storage

Ink Organization

CAS Cards

Mojo Monday 3-7-11

Mojo Monday - I'm back

Mojo Monday

Wanted to Share

Color Challenge 3-10-09

Mojo Monday Sketch

Card Sketch

Color Challenge Inspiration

March 3, 2009 Color Challenge

Mojo Monday Examples

Mojo Monday - March 2, 09

Today's Share

Make a Scrapbook Collage

Tuesdays Late Color Challenge

My Newest LOVE!

Today's Mojo Monday

OOOPS! Mojo Monday and Inspiration Tuesday

Valentines Day Hanger

A Couple Things to Share

This Weeks Winner

Interesting Scrapbook Sketch/Blog Candy

Saint Patty's Day Share

A Cute Idea for Valentines Day

Another Find

Great Find

Blog Searching

Tuesday's Color Inspiration

Mojo Monday

Today's Share

Blog Candy

Blog Candy Winner!!!!

I keep forgetting!

New Classes Added!

Challenge Results for SBVC61

The Start of Blog Candy

Valentines Inspiration

Blog Candy Coming Soon!

Card to Share

Today's Challenge: SBVC61

ARRRG!

Today's Challenge: Straight From Me!

The Ruffners': WT202 Challenge

WT202 Challenge: Pizzazz it Up!

Card Heart Card

Sundays Challenge

My Challenge Results: SC211 and LSC202

Wednesday's Challenge: SC211

CC201: Not Quite Sage

1/9/09: LSC202

Mousies Card