Joan's Get Together PROJECTS

Just a quick posting to share the projects we did at Joan Fricker's (Joan's Gardens) over the weekend. Aren't they awesome! Joan is such a CRAFTY lady and an awesome Hostess!!





Isn't this little red paper sack Christmas house adorable!!! Unfortunately you can't see it in the photo but the roof has been Cuttlebugged with the Snowflake Embossing Folder and the front door and chimney were embossed with the Swirls EF.




I know she got her original idea from Barb Schram for the house and it can be created in so many different ways for different occassions. I really love the Christmas House idea!









Is this card GORGEOUS or what!!! This is actually a photo of Joan's sample. I was too busy talking and eating to get mine done ... but I do have the pieces and can put it together later. She is just SO clever ... using the Spellbinders Fleur de Lis diecut and the Martha Stewart Loop border & corner punches ... and what can I say about that awesome May Arts ribbon ... luscious!!!










Now how about this beautiful box! These photos are all from Joan's Samples. Of course I had to improvise on my box (I was running out of time ... again with the talking & eating) ... I used a different border punch and a single loop bow ... I like Joan's better!! TeeHee




THANKS SO MUCH for the fun weekend Joan ... I look forward to when I can come out and visit again with you and Jon!




Now I must get some work done!!! Not too many nice days left and since I "played" all weekend ... I'm having to catch up on some of that work that's been waiting for me to return. Thanks everyone for stopping by today ... I have my cards created for the SCS Crafty Secrets Forum Challenge (Make someone smile) and also for today's Midnight Madness Sketch Challenge. I'll post them later today once I get my photographing completed! Have a great day!!!

Soggy Senior Night & FUN Filled Weekend

HEY Everyone!! Well, I'm preposting this write-up since I'm headed back home from my fun-filled weekend in Indiana with Joan Fricker. More info on that further down in my post but first I wanted to tell you about Granddaughter, Morgan's "Senior Night" last Friday night!

We are so proud of Morgan ... she's a senior at Leetonia School in Leetonia, Ohio and has developed into quite an awesome young lady. She has ALWAYS been very active in the school band and for the last two years has held the position of Field Commander ... how awesome is that!!! Unfortunately with DH's illness this past year or so I wasn't able to see her "Conduct" the band but I know her Mom has taken pictures along the way to keep me up to date. This past Friday night was what they call "SENIOR NIGHT" and that is where all the Senior band members and football players are honored at the last home game of the year. They are escorted by their parents up the 50 yard light where their accomplishments and future plans are announced and photos are taken for the yearbook. We were so thrilled that she asked us (Nanna & Pappy) to also escort her along with her parents and brother. The bad part was that it was pouring down rain and we were all drenched !!! We did make the best of it and truly enjoyed the moment!! I TRIED to get a photo of Morgan and her "Pappy" while we were waiting in line to go out onto the field and since it was raining so hard (Mo & Mark were standing under the cover of the building overhang), I left my camera in my car and just had my cell phone to catch a couple of shots. (Can you tell Mark doesn't like having his picture taken, LOL!) That's okay ... Morgan was just so pleased that he was healthy enough to be able to attend! CONGRATULATIONS Morgan ... we are VERY proud of you!!!

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As far as the Saturday Stamping Get Together ... WOWZA ... what a GREAT time was had by all!!! Joan Fricker (Joan's Gardens) is an AMAZING hostess and came up with some amazing projects for us to do. There were 10 ladies who attended (included myself) and, not only were the projects amazing, but the ladies all brought food and when lunch time came .... WOW, what a feast!!!!! Not only were crafting ideas flying ... but recipes too!!

Most of the ladies came from the Indiana area (a group of them were from about 1-1/2 hr. away) ... I was the only one from Ohio (5 hrs. away). What a fun group and I was thrilled to meet and share the fun with each and every one of them!!!! (That's me in the back peaking around between Mare & Roxie)!! Joan asked me to stay a couple extra days, which I was thrilled to be able to do. We went out for dinner with friends (Jeff & Sherry) then on Sunday we (Joan, Sherry & myself) went into town and did some "Christmas" shopping!! The weather was beautiful and we had a GRAND time!!

Well, I must get ready to head home! There is rain predicted for today and I'm hoping to get out ahead of it!! I will be back later to share the AWESOME projects with you that we did on Saturday. Until then ... enjoy your day and pray I get home safe & sound! Thanks my friends!!!

Is It Monday Already?????

Yes it is and that means it's time for another Digital-Ink Co. Challenge. This week we have a RECIPE CHALLENGE for you to play with and here is today's recipe: FABRIC ... GLITTER ... BUTTON(s) ... BOW.



The Design Team will be using digital images by the creator Jules Junk. Please pop over to the STORE and check out the images by Jules as well as all the amazing images available by our other awesome creators.





I chose to use Jules Truck Stamp and there is a GOOD REASON & STORY behind my decision!! Since the first thing on the recipe list is FABRIC, I wasn't sure where to begin! I don't do much sewing any more so needless to say, I don't have much in the line of fabric laying around! THEN THE LIGHT BULB CAME ON!! I saw this image and it had some meaning to me since there was a time in my life when I DROVE 18-WHEELER ... yes, you heard me right, I drove semi for a short period of time! Hey, I was adventureous and willing to give anything a try once ... THEN I GREW UP!!! I just happened to still have one of the flannel shirts I wore when I was driving and decided to cut the sleeves off of it and use a piece for my FABRIC portion of the recipe. For the buttons I chose to use SU Grommets and for the bows I did ribbon ties to match with the flannel material. I colored my image using Prisma pencils and Gamsol, matted it with Basic Black cardstock and bordered it with Gold Stickles. OH ... I don't know if you can see it in the photo or not ... but I used Crystal Effects on the windshield to add the illusion of glass glare.



I hope you enjoyed my creation & story ... now it's YOUR turn!! This week you'll be playing for a Sewn Together image and all you have to do is add your DIRECT LINK to Mr. Linky over on the Challenge Blog. Remember, if you are uploading to another online gallery (SCS, PCP, etc.), please use the keyword DIC0008.




Thanks for stopping by today!! I am still in Indiana with Joan Fricker but I'll be home later today and can't wait to see what you have created! PLEASE be sure to check out my DIGI-Sisters blogs for some awesome inspiration ... you can find links to them all on my sidebar. And beginning next week we have another treat for you ... we will have TWO Guest Designers who will share even more inspiration with you!! Have a great day!! Happy Stamping!!

It's SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT time ...

[This is a prepost due to the fact that I'm on the road headed to Indiana to join in on Joan Fricker's Get Together ... sure hope this works like it's supposed to!]

Happy Saturday Everyone and it's time for another Saturday Spotlight with Hidden Potential Challenge! Are you ready for this one??? Today's challenge is TREAT CONTAINERS! How much fun is that!! Be sure to pop on over to the challenge blog for all the details and be sure to check out the other Diva's blogs (listed on my sidebar) for some amazing creations. Some ladies have even done tutorials or linked you to a tutorial. Thanks Ladies!!!

Now, on to my creations! Keeping in mind I need a LOT OF PRACTICE with these types of projects ... please be kind, LOL!!! The idea for this first Treat Container came from my own imagination (such as it is, teehee). I used a Giant Eagle Quart size storage zip top bag for my base container. Using a strip of cardboard covered with Halloween paper, I've made a flat bottom for inside the bag (see insert). Using my SU Top Note die, I created the topper then simply attached these adorable chipboard Halloween characters (gift from my friend Terri Snode, Terri's Cards 'n More) for decoration. A very SIMPLISTIC container but I have no doubt my grandson will LOVE it!!!


For my 2nd creation I went looking for more STRUCTURED help. A friend recently sent me an email with a link to Dawn's Stamping Thoughts blog and there I found TONS of creative ideas! While looking through the list, I noticed she had a Movers & Shapers Treat Holder video. I viewed it and used it as the basis for my Snicker's Holder here.




The papers I have used are from the Debbie Mumm Harvest & Holiday pack purchased at JoAnn's and the bat is another diecut chipboard given to me by my friend Terri. I've used Nestabilities Classic Ovals and Scallop Ovals for the window on the front, to expose the goodies available inside. The Snickers bars are inside a smaller zip top bag that I had in my stash from something I've purchased along the way (can't throw ANYTHING away you know, teehee)!

Well, that's it for my creations ... NOW IT'S YOUR TURN!! Be sure to DIRECT LINK your creation to Mr. Linky over on our Challenge Blog and when uploading to other online galleries, please use the keyword SSHP04. This week's sponsor is FireCracker Designs and they are generously giving away not one but TWO free stamp sets to this week's winner!!!

Good Luck everyone! I will have my laptop with me so first chance I get I'll be checking out what you have created and leaving you some comment love!! Have fun!!

SCS Sketch Challenge and Blog Candy Winnings

Boy, I hope the sun is shining where you are today ....

it is a BEAUTIFUL day here in N.E. Ohio!!!

I know you are asking yourself ... then why is she in the house and not outside ... well, I wanted to create a couple of cards to share with you all ... and THEN, I'm headed outdoors to complete my fall cleanup project!!! I'm headed to Indiana this weekend to join in on a fun GET TOGETHER with my friend Joan Fricker of Joan's Gardens has planned and I am SO EXCITED to be going. But I MUST get my chores completed first ... so I'd better be quick about it!!!

My first card was created for the Sketch Challenge over on Splitcoast Stampers. I recently purchased this sleigh image which was created by a local Ohio artist (StacyStamps) and thought it was perfect for today's layout.

Here are the deets on this creation:

Papers: Basic Grey dp, DCWV dp, Whisper White cs

Inks: Versafine black

Accessories: Prismacolor Markers, Gold Pilot Marker, Prima flowers & leaves, Creative Imaginations brad, metal ruler, craft knife

The other creation I would like to share with you today uses this adorable The Character Cafe image that I was lucky enough to win on Angie Cortes Designs Blog a short while back! Isn't he just the cutest little thing!!! His name is Christmas Scamp and it sure looks like he's in for trouble!!!

Here are the deets:

Stamps: Hero Arts (sentiment)

Papers: Christmas Red, Whisper White, DCWV Indian Summer Glitter dp (gift from Vicki Parsons - thanks lady!)

Inks: computer ink, Versafine black

Accessories: Prismacolor Markers, Fiskars decal scissors, JoAnn's organdy ribbon, Liquid Applique, Ranger embossing tinsel

Thanks so much for stopping by today ... now I'm headed outside to enjoy this lovely fall day and get some work done!! Hope you are having a wonderful day whereever you are and whatever you are doing!! Happy Stamping!!!

Penny's Challenges - Halloween Theme

Today's challenge on Penny's Challenges is to create using a Halloween Theme. With Halloween being "right around the corner" I was having fun playing with all my "trick or treat" goodies. Now I just have to remember to put them in the mailbox for friends and family to enjoy!!




For today's card I have used a Trick or Treat Bag digi image by Reece's Designs [April] from the Digital-Ink Co. Shoppe. I've colored my Trick or Treat Bag using Prisma pencils and Gamsol. Nestabilities (Labels 1) created my panel & matting. Background paper is from DCWV and my Bat & Pumpkin Man are dimensional stickers by Miss Elizabeth which have been hanging out in my Scrapbooking Stickers Box for ages!!!





I'm very happy with this little creation and hope you like it too!! Why not join us in today's challenge then direct link your Fun Filled Halloween Creation back to Mr. Linky at Penny's Challenges Blog. If you are uploading to an online gallery (PCP, SCS, etc.) please use the keyword/tag number "PC12". I can't wait to see what you come up with and I'll be sure to stop by and take a peek!!







Thanks to my friend Kim (Memories in Thyme) for letting me know that the challenge this week over on Design Dollies is the colors black, purple and green. This creation sure fits that bill so I'll be popping right over to enter it into the fun. Why not pop over and check it out for yourself.






Thanks for stopping by today ... hope to see you again soon!!

Midnight Madness Sketch Challenge #24

One more quick post for today then I really MUST get my butt outside and get my work done!!! Boy am I going to be in trouble!!! Yikes!!!

Here is my card for today's Midnight Madness Sketch Challenge. If you haven't been over to this challenge yet, you are really missing out on the fun!! These ladies are amazing and are constantly coming up with very unique sketches and new, fun things to do!

Recipe for my creation:

Stamps: B Line Designs

Papers: Very Vanilla, Christmas Red, Graphic45 designer paper

Inks: Versafine black, Ranger Antique Linen

Accessories: Nestabilities (classic ovals), Prima Flowers, Making Memories Brad, Prisma pencils, Gamsol, Gold Stickles, Gold Pilot Marker

Thanks for taking a peek . . . now I am REALLY headed out the door! Catch you later!!

Crafty Secrets - MASKquerade

Good Morning everyone! The sun is shining here in NE Ohio and I have a TON of outside work needing done ... but before I get started I wanted to play along with the SCS Crafty Secrets Forum Challenge.

Pammyjo is our hostess today and she has asked us to do a card using a "MASK". Not the technique, although I'm sure she wouldn't have a problem with that, but to create your own Halloween mask or use one of the Crafty Secrets images that has a mask in it. Since I'm not "artsy" enough to create my own mask, I decided to use an image with a mask and to use the masking technique on the inside of my creation. My image is from the Crafty Secrets Halloween Images & Journal Notes booklet and I have double matted it with orange and black cardstock for stability. My basecard is of very vanilla cardstock and A-6 in size (9-1/4" x 6-1/4" folded in half). In this case, I have made a Gate Card so the card was folded so both sides met in the middle. The designer paper used is Crafty Secrets (Radient) and Debbie Mumm Harvest & Holiday pack.

For the inside of my card, I have created a SPOOKY scene which started out by stamping the house from the SU "Home is Where the Haunt Is" set with versafine black then MASKING it using Eclipse masking medium. Then using various Stampscape images for the sky, tree, yard and fence as well as Anita images for the cat & witch, my scene came together. I've used a makeup applicator to color in my moon & windows. The inks I have used are old olive, summer sun, more mustard, soft sky, versafine black and versafine sepia. I've used prisma pencils to write out my invitation details. This was great fun to make ... I hope you enjoy it and are inspired to try something like this. It's amazing what you can do when you start looking through the images you have and putting them together. Of course I had some help by using my Stampscapes ... if you are not familiar with them, you can check them out HERE.

Well, the grass is starting to dry out so I guess it's time for me to get outside and get started! Time is flying by so fast I really must take advance of these possibly last few nice days. It's supposed to be in the upper 60's today and possibly 70 tomorrow. Besides, it's beautiful outside this time of the year ... everyones trees are in gorgeous fall color, the air is crisp and the smell of wood fires burning is awesome ... I love FALL!!! Happy Day Everyone! Thanks for stopping by!!

Craft Show Creations ...

Good Monday Evening! I hope everyone has had a great start to their week! Some folks have asked me why I haven't been doing as many challenges as I normally do ... well the answer to that question is simple ... I'm preparing for my first craft show ... Nov. 7th, and I'm not really sure what will sell and what won't so I'm trying to have a variety.

Besides making sure ALL of my cards are in sleeves w/envelopes, I've been busy making money holders and gift card holders. I thought you might like to have a peek at my creations.

I know I find myself giving more cash/gift cards to family these days because the "kids" in our family are all teens or older and I have no clue what they might want for Christmas ... so this is the easy way out for us and I thought there's probably a lot more folks out there with the same problem ... hence the holders. I have more made than what I show in the photos because I'm made at least 3 of each pattern.

Then I got thinking that these would probably be needed for Birthdays as much as Christmas so I've been working on that angle too. I have several of the gift card holders made but need to get some cash holders prepared.

Although today I think more folks give gift cards vs cash! What are your thoughts on this subject?? I could really use your advice!!

Here is a peek at the inside of both types of holders. If you have any suggestions, I would love to hear them. I think I'm on the right track with this project ... at least I hope so!!

My friend Sandy is doing the craftshow with me and some of the other projects we'll have for sale are: Altered Composition Books (school colors), Tubble Tile Coasters, Light Switch Plates, Altered Candles, Boxed Card Sets (birthday, thank you, assorted & Christmas), Clear Christmas Ornaments and whatever else we can get made in time, LOL!!

Thanks for stopping by and PLEASE ... suggestions are welcomed!!!

Digital-Ink Co. (DIC0007) Challenge

It's Monday and time for another Digital-Ink Co. Challenge. This week we are challenged to make ANYTHING BUT A CARD. You don't want to miss the creations posted by my team mates this week .... AMAZING ideas and inspiration!! There will be a link to each of their blogs at the end of my post ... please check them out!!

I did make a CARD but it's a MONEY card for the holidays. We, the design team, are using images from another D-IC creator ... SEWN Together and the image I chose to use is Morty the Moose in Sleigh Bells (isn't he just toooooo cute!!). Please be sure to check out all the sweet images Angela has available at our SHOPPE. Our sponsor this week is another awesome creator ... M&M Designz. You'll want to check out Judy's images while you are visiting the SHOPPE too.

Details for my creation are as follows: Base card is 8-1/2" x 6-3/4" ... scored at 2-1/2" and 5-1/2". When taping the sides of the panel which will hold the money ... be sure not to use adhesive larger than 1/4" wide or your money won't fit. I have used a 1-1/4" circle punch for my center slide out 1/2 circle cut. Morty was colored with Prisma pencils, Gamsol & Prismacolor Markers. My designer paper is from the Debbie Mumm Harvest & Holidays pack and the felt snowflakes are from Creative Impressions. Decorating inside and out of these money holders is endless!

Why not come play along and share your creativity with us! Be sure to make a direct link back to Mr. Linky on our Challenge Blog and if you are uploading to other online galleries (SCS, PCP, etc.) be sure to use the keyword/tag: DIC0007. I can' t wait to see what you create ... I could sure use some new ideas ... REALLY!!! Here is what you will be playing for this week! This beautiful vintage image is by M&M Designz and it could be yours!!

The winner has been drawn for the Blog Raffle ... be sure to jump on over to see if YOU where the lucky winner!!!

AND

We also still have the 50% off Sale going on until the end of the month! What an awesome bargain on these creative images. Be sure to check out each of the creators and make your purchases before you run out of time!!

As promised, here are the links to my fellow team member's blogs. Please stop by and show them a little blogger love with a comment.

Boni - Diane - Jackie - Jennifer - Kim - Micki - Raquel - Tanis - Teri



Thanks for stopping by today and thank you in advance for any comments you may leave! I'm working on several things for an upcoming craftshow and hope to share a few projects with you over the next few days. Until then, I wish you a happy, fun, creative day!

It's SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT time ...

Good Saturday to you all!!! Are you ready for some fun??? Then please come join us on Saturday Spotlight today where we are MAKING A SCENE!!! No, not hoopin' & hollerin' ... but a scene in the card creating way!! Please be sure to check out what my fellow team mates have to share with you for more inspiration ... WOW ... such a creative bunch!

Now when I think of creating a SCENE ... my first thoughts go to my Stampscapes Stamps. Coming up with a scenic creation is a breeze with these images. They are also what I turn to when I need anything masculine ... can't go wrong with the "great outdoors" for the guys!!! There are actually 6 different images used in making this card and I'd like to share the steps taken in its creation.

STEP 1: The center Rocks & Trees image was stamped again on either side of the main image using Versafine black ink. STEP 2: Next the sky was stamped using a Sky image by Ala Art using Soft Sky ink. STEP 3: Using a large sponge pod and More Mustard ink ... I created the evening Sun. STEP 4: Stamped the Flying Geese in the sky using Versafine black ink. STEP 5: Stamped the Fisherman in the water using Versafine black ink. STEP 6: Created more water in the foreground using the Water/Sand image and Versafine black ink. STEP 7: Using SMALL sponge pods and various inks, I've done the coloring in of the trees, rocks & water. FINAL STEP: Stamped the Sentiment using Really Rust ink. The sentiment reads: In the Woods We Return to REASON & FAITH.

This weeks sponsor is SQUIGGLEFLY. Squigglefly is a digital stamp company with several talented artists to provide a HUGE variety of images suited for just about any taste you have! If you've not tried digi's yet, no worries, there are FREEBIES that you can try before you buy! PLUS, they have tutorials to help answer any digi questions you may have along with a very supportive network of people that would be happy to help you out!

Squigglefly has GENEROUSLY donated to the winner of this challenge picked by random.org
TWO FREE digital images of choice!!! In addition, Vicki is also throwing in a THIRD FREE digital image from herself just for playing along with us at Saturday Spotlight! How cool is that!!!

For your quick access, links to the DT members are listed below:

*Vicki (Creator/DT Coordinator)
Boni
Chris
Crystal
Darlene (you are here)
Dawn
Debbie
Erin
Jessica
Maria
Susan

Thanks so much for stopping by today! I hope you are have a fun filled weekend! The weather is a bit crummy here in NE Ohio but they're promising us Indian Summer type weather for the upcoming week ... guess I'll just have to be patient, LOL!!

Stamp Simply #109 Gate Fold

Happy Friday Everyone!!! It's time again for the Stamp Simply Challenge over on Sharon Johnson's No Time To Stamp Blog. If you've never visited Sharon ... you are not only missing a wonderful weekly challenge but in her store she has the most AWESOME ribbons and many other goodies! Please jump over and check it out! Now on to my creation for today's challenge.

The only stamping on this card is in the inside (see below). I started with a white base card which I sponged using Ranger Vintage Photo ink along the edges then layered designer paper from the Debbie Mumm Harvest & Holiday pack sold at JoAnn's. On top of the red designer paper I've used parts of one of the images from the Cornish Heritage Farms Thomas Kinkade Christmas Series designer paper and filled in the extra space with a panel of another Debbie Mumm dp. My main image is chipboard from the K&Company Christmas Cheer chipboard set. I'm really happy with the outcome and think I'll be making more for the upcoming season.

Here is the inside of my gate card. The floral scroll on top was created with Shapeabilities and I used the same Debbie Mumm dp I used for the small panels on the front. I know it's difficult to see but I have stamped a whimsical tree (by Inkadinkado) with versamark behind the sentiment. The sentiment stamp is by Northwood and was stamped using Versafine Black ink.

Thanks so much for stopping by today and please check out Sharon's blog and the creations by her design team. There is some wonderful inspiration from these ladies!!! Enjoy your day and upcoming weekend!

SCS Sketch Challenge & Color Throwdown Challenge

Just wanted to share a couple creations with you and I'll try to keep it SHORT! I know ... I can get chatty sometimes!! So here we go ......

First is today's Sketch Challenge over on SCS. Here are the deets:

Stamps: ANW Crestwood

Papers: Whisper White, Not Quite Navy, The Paper Patch Designer Paper

Inks: Not Quite Navy

Accessories: Martha Stewart snowflake punch, Silver Stickles, Prismacolor Marker, Metal Ruler

Technique: Faux Stitching

My second creation is for today's Color Throwdown Challenge using Baja Breeze, Black/Chocolate, and Sahara Sand. I've also added Basic Grey Periphery designer paper to my card.

Here are the deets:

Stamps: Wordsworth

Ink: Versafine Sepia

Accessories: Nestabilities (classic ovals & scallop ovals), Detail Clear ep, Kaiser half pearls, SU Chocolate Chip satin ribbon

Thanks for stopping by today ... and as always, I appreciate you taking the time to leave me a comment! I hope you're having a fun, creative day!

Penny's Challenge #11

Well here we are at Wednesday already and that means it's time again for Penny's Challenges. Today's challenge is :

Autumn themed Project.

The only catch is that your project

MUST include trees.

Thanks to all of you who have been playing along in our challenge!! It's great fun to go visit new blogs and be inspired by all the awesome talent out there in blogland! I hope you join us again this week and the weeks to come ... Penny has some great challenges in store for you!!! Here is my creation for today's AUTUMN with TREES challenge ... what do you think??? This was VERY EASY and great fun!! I simply took a piece of white cs (4" x 5 1/4") and using white sponge pods (1 for each color) started with my old olive and swiped the color across the bottom on the panel ... then moving up with really rust ... next layer, more mustard and finally summer sun. Using Versafine black ink, I've stamped my Rubber Stampede tree image three times (center, left, right) to created my scene. Added the geese & verse (both from Stampscapes), mounted to a black card base and Viola!!! my card is complete.

I hope you'll try this easy technique for creating an autumn scene and upload it to Mr. Linky at Penny's Challenge Blog. If you're uploading to other online gallerys (SCS, PCP, etc.) please use the keyword "PC11". Please be sure to check out the inspirational creations from the other design team members listed below and show them a little comment love:

Alanna - Alanna's Spot In the World

Alison - Hairy Harry's Crafts

Boni - Bonibleaux Designs

Cheryl - CherCroppin' Stamp Pad

Darlene - (you are here, teehee)

Kim - Memories in Thyme

Thanks for stopping by! I'll be back later with my creations for today's SCS Sketch Challenge and the ever fun Color Throwdown!! Hope to see you then!!! Have a great day!!

Midnight Madness Sketch Challenge #23

Time for another MIDNIGHT MADNESS SKETCH CHALLENGE and this one (for me) was a doozie!!! If you look at my last post ... then this one ... you are going to think that I only own ONE stamp set but this Crafty Secrets Vintage Christmas image is just "making me happy today" so I'm GOIN' WITH IT!!!! LOL!!

If you haven't been over to Priscillastyles Blog, you are really missing out!! There is SO MUCH going on over there, I'm really having a hard time keeping up. I'll tell you a little more at the end of this post but for now, here is my creation for today! OOOOoooppps ... I see I forgot my little embellishments on my three panels ... oh well, too late now! Hope Priscilla doesn't smack my fingers ... since I don't have a "wireless printer" for my laptop ... I've been doing a quick sketch before going to the craft room and seems I missed this detail. NOTE TO SELF: take laptop to craftroom and quit sketching!!!

My friend, Sandy (glitterqueen that she is) will be thrilled with this creation! She says a card isn't complete until it has a bit of "sparkle". Well let me tell you ... this card has sparkle on all four sides so it definately qualifies as complete!!! LOL!! And I was able to utilize some of the holiday scraps I had piling up on my worktable! Hope you like it!!







Be sure to check out the BLOG HOP beginning the end of the week. Should prove to be VERY INTERESTING! Thanks so much for stopping by today and as always, your comments are appreciated!

Crafty Secrets Challenge - RESIST

Good Tuesday Morning Everyone!!!

Today's challenge over on the SCS Crafty Secrets Forum is to use a RESIST Technique. I decided to use the Embossing Resist for my creation along with my Crafty Secrets Vintage Christmas Santa image & Snowflakes from three of their Christmas sets.




There are several RESIST Techniques available in the SCS Resources folder found HERE ... or you can check out this specific technique HERE. GinaK has an awesome gift idea using this techique over on STAMPTV ... you might want to check that out too!



Here is a list of items used for my creation:

Stamps: Crafty Secrets (Vintage Christmas, Christmas Joy, Snow Bunnies)
Paper: Whisper White, Garden Green
Inks: Baroque Burgundy, Versamark, Versafine Black
Accessories: Sponge pods, Silver Pearl Embossing Powder, Frima Flowers, Creative Imaginations brad, Hobby Lobby Organza ribbon, Stickles, Baroque Burgundy marker, Prisma Pencil, Gamsol, Paper Piercing Tool

Techniques: Embossing Resist, Paper Piercing

It's always fun to try different techniques and since I am one who can get "stuck in a rut" quite easily, I think I'll go get creative and try a couple other resist techique styles. I hope you have a fun, creative day today no matter what you may be doing. I'm trying to get ready for a Craft Show (Nov. 7th) so I'd better get busy! Enjoy your day everyone and thanks for stopping by!!!

So You Think You Can Dance 2009 Tour

Over this past weekend, I was fortunate enough to enjoy the company of my granddaughter (Morgan), daugher (Carolyn), Toledo x-neighbor & friend (Nancy), Nancy's daughter (Sarah) and Nancy's DIL (Jennifer) to the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE Season 5 - 2009 Tour which made a stop in Toledo, Ohio this year. We had a wonderful time and the show was AWESOME!!! Last year Nancy, Sarah, Jennifer & Myself went into Detroit, MI to see the Season 4 dancers and I was so thrilled to have Carolyn & Morgan join us this year.

I will share only a few photos (of the many that we took, LOL) ... but these kids are amazing and if you ever have the opportunity to see them ... please do, you won't be disappointed!!

There were two memorable dances for me this year that really tugged at my heart strings. When I first saw them performed on TV, they were so moving ... I was in tears by the end of the performance!! The first one was a dance that told the story of "Drug Addiction" and the story these two dancers told in their dancing was AMAZING.

Another dance told the painful story of "Breast Cancer" and there was not a dry eye in the building. Oda and Melissa were just breathtaking in this performance and when he carried her across the stage high upon his shoulder at the end of the performance, you could hear a pin drop before the outbreak of applause!!

Not all dances were as "deep" as these two! There were MANY uplifting, fun dances both by individual dancers and group dances. These performers have to be exhausted by the end of the night because they go none stop for the first hour & a half and then after a 1/2 hour break ... perform for another hour & a half!

I could just go on & on about this show! I have watched it from Season 1 and they just keep getting better and better! There is so much talent out there and it's wonderful to see these young people sharing what they love with the world! So there you have it ... a little glimpse of this awesome group of performers! I hope you enjoyed it. If you'd like to find out more about this program, you can check it out HERE. Season 6 auditions are already under way and is looking like it's going to outdo Season 5 and I didn't think that was possible!! Thanks for stopping by!

DIC0006 - Sketch Challenge

Good Monday Morning!!!

Today's challenge over on the Digital-Ink Co. Challenge Blog is a SKETCH and we are anxious to see what you create! The DT has been having a lot of fun with this one and we have all used images from M&M Designz for our creations. Judy has such a wonderful array of creations available over at the DIC Shoppe ... please jump on over and check them out. Be sure to check out the other designers while you are there ... you will find exactly what you've been looking for AND MORE!!!

I have used a couple images from Judy's BODY TOT series ... aren't they adorable!!! Please meet Aunt Venie and Uncle Jesse!! After printing, I have used Prisma Color Markers for my coloring and cut them out with a Fiskars Swivel Craft Knife. My base card is Really Rust cs, the designer paper is from the Debbie Mumm Harvest & Holiday pack from JoAnn's and the frame is by Nestabilities. I've used the SU Country Blessings stamp set for my sentiment and the slit punch for the corners. A few springs punched with the Martha Stewart branch punch was all that was needed to finish my creation.

Don't forget there's a HUGE 50% off SALE going on right now so please be sure to hop on over and make your selections !!!

TODAY'S PRIZE for one lucky winner will be this Stamping Dragon Design image! So perfect for those Christmas cards we all need to start creating!! So be sure to play along and get your creation added to Mr. Linky over on the Challenge Blog before 8:00 PM, Sunday, October 18th.

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Now if you don't mind, I'd like to share yet another M&M Designz image with you and this time I'd like you to meet who I call "Sweet Cheeks" ... but the image title is "ALL DRESSED UP". Isn't she just ADORABLE!!!!

I've used the same layout basis for this creation and Prisma Pencils/Gamsol for coloring. My designer paper is by Daisy D's and the sentiment is by Art Impressions. The scallop square was created using the Nestabilities Scallop Square dies.

I'm having so much fun with these digital images ... if you haven't tried them yet ... PLEASE pop on over and check them out. Hey they're now 50% off ... great time to give 'em a whirl!!!

THANKS SO much for joining me today and don't forget to check out what the other DIC design team members have created for your viewing pleasure and inspiration.

Boni - Diane - Jackie - Jennifer - Kim - Micki - Raquel - Tanis - Teri

Saturday Spotlight Challenge Time ...

Good Saturday Morning Everyone!!

(I hope this pops up properly ... I have preposted my challenge creation because I, along with my daughter & granddaughter are in Toledo, Ohio this weekend to see the Season 5 dancers from the show "So You Think You Can Dance". We are linking up with my friend Nancy Beelman, her daughter & DIL. We are going out for dinner before the show & who knows whatelse after the show ... LOL ... should be an awesome show & great fun with wonderful friends). NOW ON TO THE CHALLENGE .....


We at Saturday Spotlight are thrilled with the awesome participation we had last week for our very 1st challenge and CAN NOT wait to see what you come up with this week!!! Our notorious leader, Miss Vicki (basementstamper) has come up with yet another awesome challenge idea!! This week we are to find a way to "DRESS UP" a plain ree image and make it any type of Season we'd like. Our sponsor this week is DRS DESIGNS and the winner of this week will receive a gift certificate from DRS Designs.




Here is my creation for today's challenge. This lovely tree is from DRS Designs (as is the sentiment) and I have used it not only as my focus image but I've used it to create my background panels. How much fun is that!!!


Here is a list of items used in this creation:

Stamps: DRS Designs
Papers: Real Red, Old Olive, Whisper White
Inks: Old Olive, Ruby Red, Brillance Gold
Accessories: Nestabilities (Classic Circles, Scallop Circles & Classic Ovals), Nestabilities (Ribbon Tag), Gold Pilot Marker, Dimensional tape, Sponge, Stampendous Diamond Dots, Prisma Flowers, Darice Ribbon



Please be sure to check out the designs created by the other Spotlight Divas. These ladies are amazing and very inspiring!!

*Vicki (Creator/DT Coordinator)
Boni
Chris
Crystal
Darlene (that's me, teehee)
Dawn
Debbie
Erin
Jessica
Maria
Susan

Here are some reminders for you to follow:

1) Be sure to place the DIRECT link to your creation in Mister Linky in order to qualify to win the prize from our sponsor or voting for the top 3 creations.

2) If you upload your creation to an on-line gallery, please be sure to label it with the keywords SSHP02

3) Have your creation uploaded in Mister Linky by Friday Evening, 7:00 PM CST in order to quaify for any prizes awarded for that sponsor week.

4) We would like to have only NEW creations for this challenge please!

5) Link your creation back to the Saturday Spotlight Challenge blog.

There you have it! I hope you enjoyed my creation and I'm so looking forward to seeing yours! Enjoy your weekend and as always ... thank you so much for stopping by my blog today!!!

Stamp Simply #108 - Krafty Black

WOW ... is it Friday again all ready!! I tell you I don't know where the time is going ... but it sure is in a hurry to get there, LOL!!!




One of my favorite weekly challenges is the Stamp Simply Challenge hosted by the one and only Sharon Johnson! Sharon comes up with some wonderful challenge ideas and her SIMPLE creations are magnificient!!! If you've never played along in one of Sharon's challenges, now's the time ... hope on over and check out all the details. Today we are using a color I RARELY use ... but I hear it is the "new white" ... and that is KRAFT! We are also to use black in our creation so this is what I've come up with.




Since this challenge is "Stamp Simply" ... I really tried to keep it simple today. I don't even OWN kraft paper so I used a color I thought came close. Guess I'll have to make a purchase ... just for times like this, LOL!! My sentiment is from JustRite and my oval was cut using the Nestabilities Classic Oval dies. My ribbon is actually from last years holiday ribbon stash and is from Michaels. The black pearls are Kaiser and I took the liberty to color in the heart using a PrismaColor Marker.




Thanks so much for stopping by today and PLEASE check out this challenge ... it's always great fun and her design team creates AWESOME works of art that will totally inspire you! Have a great weekend everyone ... I'm off to Toledo, OH tomorrow morning with my daughter & granddaughter to watch the dancers from Season 5 of "So You Think You Can Dance" ... can't wait, what fun!!