A Cute Christmas Snowman

Good evening friends!

I finally had some time today to make a card, but I'm not sure how happy I am with the way it turned out. The top looks a little awkward to me with all of the white. I love the snowman, the snowflakes & the colors have grown on me. At first I wasn't really crazy about the paper, etc. I loved the designs, but when I think of Christmas, I think Reds & Greens. This snowman was so cute, that I couldn't stop myself from getting this set.

For the coloring, I used the ink in the top of the ink pads with a blender pen. I used the Basic Black Stampin' Write marker to color in his hat. I used the new Sizzix Big Shot Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets when die cutting the snowflakes. Then all I had to do, was peel off the back and stick them to the front of the card. It was a little easier said than done. I'm not sure if I needed more shim behind the plates, but it took me a little while to get all of the little accents poked out.

Stamps: A Cute Christmas
 Paper: Baja Breeze, Blushing Bride, Whisper White & Candy Cane Christmas DSP
 Ink: Black Stazon, Baja Breeze, Blushing Bride, Garden Green & Real Red Ink pads & Basic Black Stampin' Write marker
 Other: Punches (Dotted Scallop Ribbon border, 1 3/4" circle, 2 3/8" Scallop Cirlce, 2 1/2" Circle & Large Oval) Northern Flurry Strip die, Basic Rhinestones, Blender Pen & Sizzix Multipurpose adhesive sheets

Thanks so much for coming by!

Regional swap shares

Good afternoon and Happy Saturday!

Sorry for the short delay in posting. There has been a lot going on here in the last week. Last Sunday I had my Open House. It turned out really nice and everyone seemed to have a great time. Here are two of the make & takes that I had:

Stamps: Wicked Cool

Paper: Old Olive, Basic Black, Whisper White & Wicked Fun DSP
Ink: Black Stazon & Cajun Craze & Pear Pizzazz Stampin' Write markers
Other: Rhinestones, Raven 1/2" lace trim, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Punches (Bat, 1 3/8" & Scallop Circle) Mat Pack & dimensionals

I got the idea for the embossing from Angela's card here: http://trulyinkspirational.blogspot.com/2010/08/wicked-cool-card.html I love her work!

Stamps: Day Of Gratitude

Paper: Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla & Autumn Spice DSP

Ink: Cajun Craze, Old Olive, More Mustard, & Early Espresso
Other: Punches (Decorative Label & 1-3/8 & 1-1/4" Squares), 5/8" Olive Olive Satin Ribbon & dimensionals


On Tuesday, a bunch of us got together to do our make & takes from the Baltimore Regional. We were having too much fun talking to other stampers and taking pictures of the display boards, etc., so we decided to do them at home. It was a lot of fun, because we couldn't all sit together at the Regional and some of us got different swaps, so it was nice to be able to look at them and take photos. There are some incredibly talented stampers out there! I will be back to share some of my favorite swaps that I received, but today I want to share the work of my recruit, Cathleen & our guest to the Regional, TJ. First you will see the two samples that were done by Cathleen.

And this one was done by our Regional guest, TJ.

Aren't they great cards? Their work is so clean and beautiful, it's hard to believe that these are their first ever swaps! You go ladies!!!

It is such a beautiful Fall day here in Maryland. I have the windows open and can hear the nice breeze. This is my favorite time of year. My husband and I had our 21st anniversary this week. We celebrated last night. The kids spent the night over their grandmother's house and we went out for a quiet dinner. It's so quiet here today. I could get used to this really easy:) The kids will be back later today and we're planning to take them to the Pumpkin Patch tomorrow. I hope you're enjoying your weekend as much as I am!

My Swap for the Baltimore Regional

Good morning!

Today I would like to share the swap that I made for the Baltimore Regional. I attended the one on Friday, October 1st.

As you can tell, I went a little nuts with punches, but I was really happy with the way it turned out and I got a lot of compliments, so it really made me feel good.

Stamps: Perfect Punches
Paper: Soft Suede, Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Very Vanilla & Elegant Soiree DSP
Ink: Soft Suede
Other: Big Shot & dies (Island Floral & Lots Of Tags), Punches (Two-Step Bird, Itty Bitty Shapes, Dotted Scallop Ribbon, & Wide Oval) Basic Pearls, Dimensionals & Glue Dots

At the Regional, someone showed us how to use the Big Shot Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets on page 17 of the Holiday Mini Catalog. I asked my upline if they could be used with punches as well and she said it was demonstrated at the Regional. I must have missed that part, but I do remember seeing them use it with the new Northern Flurry strip die. All I know is, they would have saved me all of the time it took me to put adhesive on the back of the little branches:) I've already ordered some!

I will be back soon to share the swaps my downline & guest made. I also want to share my favorite swaps and some photos of our group.

Have a great day!

Baby Congrats & Birthday cards

Good morning!

Can you believe it? This is my second post in two days:)

First, I would like to share the card I made for my sister-in-law to congratulate her on the birth of my precious little nephew, Charlie. I bought this stamp knowing I would be using it for this special occasion.I used the Baja Breeze Die Cut sheet from the Nursery Suite Specialty Designer Series Paper. I cut a piece of Chocolate Chip paper and put it behind the scallops so the pretty design would show through. I also used Baja Breeze paper from the Subtles Patterns DSP pack. I punched out a tiny heart and added the bow. Isn't this sweet?

Stamps: Baby Steps

Paper: Chocolate Chip, Baja Breeze, Pear Pizzazz, Real Red, Whisper White & Nursery Suite Specialty DSP

Ink: Baja Breeze

Other: Two-Step Owl Punch (heart), Early Espresso 1/8" tafetta ribbon, glue dot & dimensionals

My second card is a card that I made for my upline's birthday. I'm loving the new In-Colors and Sunny Garden Designer Series paper.

Stamps: Just Believe

Paper: Peach Parfait, Pear Pizzazz, Whisper White & Sunny Garden DSP

Ink: Pear Pizzazz

Other: Punches (Two-Step Bird, Dotted Scallop Ribbon, Modern Label & Word Window), Fire & Ice Rhinestone Brads, & Stampin' Dimensionals

I hope you've enjoyed the cards I shared today and I hope you'll come back soon.

Have a terrific day!



Happy Fall to all!

Good morning!

I know it's been a long time since I've shared anything...and I have a lot to share! First, here is a card that I made for one of our meetings. I punched a circle in the center of a card sized piece of card stock and brayered the sun using Daffodil Delight ink. I goofed and accidently used something that has retired! Can you figure out what it is?

Stamps: Inspired by Nature & Sincere Salutations
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Daffodil Delight & Whisper White
Ink: Old Olive & Cholcolate Chip
Other: Punches, (1 3/8 circle, XL Two-Step Bird, & Horizontal Slot), brayer & Dimensionals

Here is another card that I made for the same meeting:

For this one, I used the Stampin' Up! Exclusive Blossom Party die. I curled the flowers under using my bone folder. The flower itself was cased from Creations By Patti. If you don't subscribe to this blog, it's a must. So much talent there!

Stamps: Perfect Punches
Paper: Soft Suede, Old Olive, Very Vanilla & Elegant Soiree DSP
Ink: Baja Breeze
Other: Sizzix dies (Blossom Party & Swirly strip), Punches (Small & Scallop Oval & 1/2" circle), Sponge & Dimensionals

I made a card using the same colors, papers & stamp set for the Baltimore Regional, which was this past Friday. It was my first event like this. I had the best time and came home with a ton of new ideas & swaps:) It was great hanging out with my stamp friends and seeing familiar faces from the blogging world.

I will be back shortly to share more cards with you. I have a couple cards that I made using the Baby Steps stamp set and of course my swap card from the Regional.

Thanks for coming by and I hope you have a beautiful day!

Happy September!!! Kick off to Holiday fun!!!

Hello stamp friends!

I don't know about you, but there is something so exciting about making cards for the holiday season. With the new products in the 2010-2011 Holiday Mini Catalog, it will be more exciting than ever! Today is the day you can begin placing orders. If you haven't seen the mini yet, check it out on my side bar. You  will not be disappointed. My wish list is a mile long, even after placing my pre-order:) I'm hoping to get some cards made today, but things are really crazy here with my hubby out of town, so I will do my best to post something in the next day or two.

Are you thinking of becoming a demonstrator? When you join Stampin' Up! between September 1st and October 18th, (or while supplies last) you will receive this beautiful Tote bag for free with your starter kit.

Craft Tote Recruiting Promotion

New recruits who join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator during the promotion period will receive a FREE craft tote (valued at $39.95) with the purchase of their Starter Kit.

Greenhouse Gala Craft Tote Description

• 100% twill nylon exterior; 100% nylon interior
• Dimensions: 15-3/4" x 7-5/8" x 8-7/8"
• Includes attachable shoulder strap for easy transport
• Center section fits 12" x 12" card stock, Craft Keepers, and Paper Cutter
• Outside pockets fit extra-large punches perfectly
• Outside flap pockets offer secure spot for accessories
• Back zipper pocket holds up to seven Stampin' Pads

If you have any questions about the starter kit, please contact me today!

Have a wonderful day!

 

Pretty Princess Birthday card

Hello everybody!

Today I would like to share another kids card that I made this week. This one is for a little girl. I knew which stamp set I wanted to use, but I wasn't sure which colors to use. One of my customers asked me how I pick my colors and fussed over how great I am with color. I have to be totally honest... I've never been great with color. When I first started making cards, I often got very frustrated trying to come up with a color scheme. Then I discovered the Stampin' Up! Designer Series Paper! Often times, I will choose the stamp set first and then I would choose one of the Designer Series Paper's that would go nicely with the set I choose. It makes my life so much easier! You don't have to be great with color to make beautiful cards!

When I was done putting the main image, the ribbon & sentiment on this card, I kept looking at it and thinking that it needed something else. Then I thought about the rhinestones, but thought they'd look funny by themselves, so I decided to try putting them on the little flower punch from the Itty Bitty Punch Pack. What do you think?

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Pretty Princess

Paper: Concord Crush, Blushing Bride, Whisper White & Lap Of Luxury DSP

Ink: Jet Black StazOn & Concord Crush, Blushing Bride, Daffodil Delight, Pear Pizzazz Stampin' Write Markers

Other: Flower Punch (Itty Bitty Punch Pack), Basic Jewels (Rhinestones), Blushing Bride & Concord Crush In-Color Stitched Poly Ribbon, Mat Pack, Paper Piercing tool, Stampin' Dimensionals & Mini Glue Dots.

Thanks so much for coming by. I hope you're having a wonderful weekend!

It's the most WONDERFUL time of the year!

Good morning stampers!

Can you tell I'm a little excited about school being back in session? Don't get me wrong, my boys were very well behaved this summer. Of course I had to referee their fighting and arguements, but they're boys:)

I didn't waste anytime getting back in to the swing of things. I made this card on Monday.

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Choo Choo, On Your Birthday & Right on Track Stampin' Around wheel

Paper: Real Red, Whisper White & Tempting Turquoise CS & Play Date DSP

Ink: Chocolate Chip, Basic Black, Tempting Turquoise & Real Red

Other: Ticket Corner Punch & Stampin' Dimensionals

I know I promised to share some time saving tips in the past, so here they are! In the first photo, you will see how I store some of my card stock. I pre-cut sheets from each color family and scored them. I used the now retired Forget-Me-Not Keepers and the very cool P-Touch label maker to make the labels for each color family. (In aplha order, of course!) This makes life so easy when I have an event, I can just grab what I need and go! Here's a photo of the Bold Brights family:

In the second photo, you will see a mini magazine holder that I made. I keep this on my desk filled with envelopes & pre-cut inserts for the sentiment. When I'm finished making my card, I just grab an insert, stamp and put in an envelope. 

Thanks for coming by! I hope you've enjoyed my card and have found the time saving tips useful. Have a wonderful day!!!

Happy Friday and blog candy winners...

Happy Friday everyone! I don't know about you, but I'm so glad the weekend is here:) 

I'm sorry I wasn't able to post the blog candy results this morning as promised. I'm pretty good with the computer, but I couldn't figure out how to save the results from Random.org. I wound up asking a friend that I met through blogging and she was a great help. Thank you, Rose!

Here are the results for the blog candy give-a-way.

Sunny, that would be you! Cathleen, you're second. I will send you both an e-mail to find out which colors you prefer. Thanks so much for the sweet comments (made me want to cry:) and for playing along.

As for me, the color I'm most disappointed to see go would have to be Close to Cocoa, though I liked a lot that are no longer available. The newest color I like the most is Marina Mist and the newest In-Color is definitely Poppy Parade:)

I will be back soon to share some of my organizing tips. I've been organizing a lot lately and I still have a lot to do. I'm driving myself nuts trying to decide if I want to keep my retired colors for personal use. My main issue is they're taking up so much space. It's hard for me to focus when it's a mess in my little stamp room.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Butterfly Prints & Blog Candy Reminder!

Hello!

Today I wanted to share a card that I made using the new Butterfly Prints stamp set. I just love these butterflies and the new In-Colors.

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Butterfly Prints & Perfect Punches

Card stock: Poppy Parade, Peach Parfait, & Whisper White

Ink: Poppy Parade, Peach Parfait, & Pear Pizzazz

Other: Poppy Parade In-Color ribbon, Punches (Eyelet Border, Curly Label, Butterfly & Itty Bitty Shapes), & Jewels (Basic Pearls).

Blog candy reminder: Tomorrow morning I will be using Random.org to chose the winners for my blog candy drawing. If you haven't had a chance to leave a comment and would like to do so, please click here http://juliesstampjournal.blogspot.com/2010/07/more-baby-shower-projects-and-blog.html and leave your comment on on the Blog Candy post.

Thanks for stopping by and good luck!

More baby shower projects and Blog Candy!!!

Hello everyone!

I'm sorry for the major lack in posting. No, my vacation wasn't that long, but the kids are home for the summer, so it's a little harder finding time to blog. I had the best time with my Aunt and family in Portland, Oregon. What a beautiful place! We were there on one of the clearest days and from one spot (Pittock Mansion), we could see Mt. Ranier, Mt. St. Helens, Mt Adams, Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson. I was so disappointed as I forgot my zoom lens:( Anyway, here's a photo that I took from the plane on the way home. I'm not even sure which mountain this is, but thought it was so cool coming up through the clouds.

When I got home, I began working on the baby shower favors. I didn't realize that I had less than two weeks to make 35 favors and finish the banner I started, but I managed to get them done just in time. Here are photos of them:

I got the idea for this favor on Dawn Olchefske's blog. She has a video tutorial that can be found here: 

http://dostamping.typepad.com/dostamping_with_dawn/2010/06/dawn-dostamping-stampin-up-two-tags-die-box.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DostampingWithDawn+%28DOstamping+with+Dawn%29

I love her blog! If you haven't visited, you will find so much inspiration there. (Thank you, Dawn! The mother-to-be loved them!:)

I wanted to have a little fun and do a little blog candy giveaway. I have 6x6 packages of unused colors from the Pattern/Prints Packs from previous years. They are 2-sided, have 6 designs and there are 2 sheets of each for a total of 12 sheets. I have 7 packs. The 1st place winner will be able to choose 3 of the 7, the 2nd place winner will then choose the next 2 colors and the 3rd place winner will be sent the remaining 2. Here are the colors that I have:

2-Apricot Appeal

Bashful Blue

Certainly Celery

Pretty In Pink

2- Wild Wasabi

For a chance to win, all you have to do is leave a comment with your answer to the following question: Out of the colors that were recently retired, which one will you miss the most? And which of the new colors is your favorite?

I will announce the winners here on my blog on Friday morning, July 30th.

To those of my stamp/blogging friends that were able to go to the Stampin' Up! Convention this year, I hope you had a wonderful time and I'm really looking forward to going next year!

I hope you have a wonderful week!

Birthday card & excitement!

Good afternoon everyone!

I feel like I'm on an emotional roller coaster, but more excited than anything. My baby is graduating from Kindergarten in a couple hours. He did so great in school this year. He's a wild one, so I have to admit I was a little concerned when he started school this year, but he really surprised me. The teacher said that he's the best reader in the class. I'm so proud of him and can't wait to see him in his cap & gown:)


Tomorrow, I will be taking my first trip to the west coast for my Aunt's 60th birthday celebration. My hubby & boys will not be going with me, but I will be traveling with other family. I have cousins that I've never met before, so I'm very excited about meeting them. I wasn't really looking forward to the long plane ride. The longest I've been on a plane is less than 3 hours. This will be double and will have a layover:( Well, I received the new Idea Book & Catalog with my pre-order yesterday.When I walked in the door and saw the box on my table, I quickly opened it and pulled out the catalog. My 8-year old son loves to make cards, so I went to tell him the good news. He was sitting on the porch as I walked up to the door singing and dancing and holding it up for him to see. I didn't realize that his little girlfriend was outside with him. You should have seen the look on their faces. I quickly walked away from the door, but I could still see Brandon... shaking his head. LOL! I'm so happy that I will have something to do on the plane to pass the time.


I've been so busy trying to get things done, that I actually forgot to share a card that I made last week. I made this for the son one of my dearest friends. I love the way it turned out.

Supplies Used:

Stamps:    Owl Together Now

Paper:       Kiwi Kiss, Pacific Point, Watercolor Paper, & Good Morning Sunshine DSP

Ink:           Black Stazon & Markers (Creamy Caramel, Close To Cocoa, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie & Summer Sun)

Other:       Aqua Painter, Punches (1 3/8", 1 1/4" & 1" circles), Pacific Point 5/8" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, 3/8" Kiwi Kiss/Very Vanilla Satin ribbon & Stampin' Dimensionals

My trip is not a long one, so I hope to be back sometime next week with something to share!

 
Have a great day!
 
Julie

Baby Shower Invites & Current Promotions

Hello stamp friends!

I'm sorry for being so inconsistent with my posting. I'm definitely trying to improve, but I've been really busy this week making my sister-in-laws baby shower invitations. I had hoped to finish them yesterday and have them to the post office before they closed, but I wound up running out of the ribbon I was using. I sent an e-mail to my fellow demonstrator to see if she had any. In the meantime, I decided to try the round tab punch to see how it looked. I liked it, but I still wanted her opinion, so when she replied telling me that she had the ribbon, I went to see her. I showed the two cards to her and she really liked the one with the tab too, so I just decided to finish the rest of them using the round tab punch. Which one do you like better?

I have the most awesome upline and they're always willing to help. Thank you to Becky & Kathy for your advice. I'm very grateful. Here is a photo of all 40 cards:) I'm very happy with them. That little turtle is so cute!

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Fox & Friends & Hugs & Wishes

Paper: Soft Sky, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip & Parisian Breeze DSP (retired)

Ink: Soft Sky & Chocolate Chip

Other: Big Shot, Stampin' Up! Pennant Bigz XL die for large scallop circle, Punches (1 3/4" circle, Scallop Border, 3/16" Corner Rounder, Modern Label, & Round Tab), Soft Sky Double Stitched ribbon (retired), Stampin’ Dimensionals® & generic rhinestones.

$99 Mini Starter Kit

If you've been thinking of joining the Stampin' Up! family, but for one reason or another wasn't interested in a large starter kit, then here's the one for you! During the month of June, you can join for only $99. The best thing about this offer is this starter kit includes products from the new Idea Book and Catalog! See details by clicking on the Promotion image on the sidebar and don't hesitate to contact me. I'm ready to answser any questions you may have:)

Last Chance Lists

This is one of the most exciting times of the year! Waiting for the arrival of the new Idea Book & Catalog. Unfortunately, it is time to say goodbye to some of our favorites. With the last chance lists, you have the opportunity to pick up the things you weren't able to get before they are gone for good.

The Last chance accessories are avaiable only while supplies last. If there is something that you want, I wouldn't wait. These items sell like hotcakes and will be gone before you know it.

To see the last chance accessories list, please click here: Accessories (This list is updated each business day at 4pm mountain time with availability info.

To see the Definitely Decorative last chance list, click here: Definitely Decorative

For the list of retiring stamp sets, click here: Stamp Sets

Both Definitely Decorative items and Stamp sets can be ordered through June 30th. If you wait until the 30th to place your order, please do so early in the day, incase there is a last minute rush. I'd hate for anyone to miss out.

Please let me know if you have any questons and I hope you enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Julie

Catching Up

Good Morning Stamp Friends!!!

I can't believe it's been a month since my last post. A lot has happened since then. Since Snuffy's passing, it was too quiet here during the day. I broke down and bought 3 more Chinese Dwarf hamsters. Yes, I said 3:) When I went to the pet store, I asked the girl working if she had any and she brought them out of the back. I had already decided that I would get two the next time we got a hamster, but there were 3 and they were all from the same litter. I couldn't decide. One of them had more white. I knew I wanted him, because he looked so different from all of the others I'd seen, but I didn't have the heart to leave one there alone. My husband wasn't too happy about it at first, but the kids and I love them to pieces.

Last week was a very busy week for me. I've needed birthday cards, a wedding card and a graduation card. Here is what I came up with:

Supplies Used: 

• 
  
  Stamps: Petal Pizzazz & Vintage Labels
• 
  
  Card Stock/Paper: Purely Pomegranate, Groovy Guava & DSP from Simply Scrappin' Kit "Happy Me" (retired)
• 
  
  Ink: Purely Pomegranate, Groovy Guava & Mellow Moss
• 
  
  Other: Punches (Scallop Circle, 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" circle punches & Stampin' Dimensionals. 

Supplies Used:  

• 
  
  Stamps: Elements Of Style
• 
  
  Card Stock/Paper: Groovy Guava, Chocolate Chip, Wild Wasabi, Whisper White & Afternoon Tea DSP (retired)
• 
  
  Ink: Wild Wasabi, Groovy Guava & Chocolate Chip
• 
  
  Other: Circle Punches (1", 1 1/4" & 1 3/8") & Stampin' Dimensionas

Supplies Used:  

• 
  
  Stamps: Together Forever
• 
  
  Card Stock/Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White & Bride & Rockabilly Specialty paper
• 
  
  Ink: Basic Black
• 
  
  Other: Punches (Full Heart, Large Oval, Scallop Oval & Scallop Border), Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits die, Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder & ribbon (Basic Black 1/4" grossgrain & Basic Black from Valet Ribbon Originals (retired) & Stampin' Dimensionals

 

Supplies Used:

• 
  
  Stamps: Owl Together Now
• 
  
  Card Stock/Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White & Bride & Rockabilly Specialty paper
• 
  
  Ink: Basic Black
• 
  
  Other: Punches (Full Heart, Large Oval, Scallop Oval & Scallop Border), Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits die, Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder & ribbon (Basic Black 1/4" grossgrain & Basic Black from Valet Ribbon Originals (retired) & Stampin' Dimensionals

I hope you like them. It will be a very busy week for me. I'm in the process of planning a baby shower shower for my sister-in-law. I need to make 35 invitations and they have to go in the mail on June 1st. I haven't even designed the card yet, but I'm sure it won't take long to put them together. Designing it is the most challenging part for me, because I want it to be something she'll cherish forever. I will be back soon to share the invitation with you.

I hope you have a wonderful day!

Julie

Finally a new post:)

Hello stamp friends!

It was a very busy and quite emotional week for me last week. I know I mentioned that our little Chinese Dwarf hamster was sick in my last post. He never got better and despite him taking the medication, it just wasn't enough.

I had plans to attend a demonstrator event which I knew about for almost 2 months, but with Snuffy being sick, it was very hard to concentrate and get my swaps done. One of my customers/friends came over on Tuesday & Wednesday to help me get the swaps done. I honestly don't know what I would have done without her. (Thank you, Cathleen!!!) When she left on Wednesday, I got him out of his cage and held & comforted him. Here's a picture I took of him sleeping on my chest.

I'm so glad that I took this picture (with my cell phone) that afternoon, because he passed away that evening. He was a very unique type of hamster. He didn't bite, he loved to be held and he'd take a nap on my chest while I watched TV in the evenings. He was my little buddy. I definitely feel the loss.

Thursday was a rough day. I was so glad that it was a hectic morning and the kids didn't go looking for Snuffy; otherwise, they wouldn't have wanted to go to school. I had to break the news to them when they got home. My 8-year old took it pretty good, but my 6-year old cried his eyes out. I took a break and just laid down next to him and tried to answer his questions. Once my hubby got home, I put on the radio and after struggling for a few hours, I finally came up with a card. Then I went to sleep. Friday I did all of the cutting and managed to get everything ready to go before I went to bed.

Saturday I got up early so I could be there at 10am. We made 7 cards and then took a break for lunch. The demonstrator that was hosting the event is also a caterer. We had fully loaded baked potatoes and an awesome salad for lunch. Then we made the second half of cards, watched demonstrations and then we voted on our top 2 cards. Even though my card wasn't in the top two, I was excited to win a door prize... the new "Go, Graduate" stamp set:) The hostess gave everyone a pair of Flip Flops and let us choose fabric we liked to make the fabric flower using the Big Shot and the Stampin' Up! Flower Folds die. Then it was time for dinner. We had the best chicken fajitas I ever had! Debbie, you rock!!! This was my first all day event and I can't wait for the next one, which will be held in September. I learned so much and all of the demonstrators were so nice and helpful. It was really what I needed to cheer me up.

I wanted to share my cards with you. This one was the swap:

 Supplies Used:

• Stamps: Sweet Scoops & On Your Birthday
• Card Stock/Paper: Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron, Whisper White & Pink Flamingo DSP
•  Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron, Creamy Caramel & Basic Black
• Other: Punches (Modern Label & Word Window), Ribbon (Tempting Turquoise & Pumpkin Pie 1/4" grosgrain & Elementary Ribbon Originals), Fire & Ice Circle Brads, Heat & Stick Powder & Dazzling Diamonds glitter

and this one was my make-n-take:

Supplies Used:

• Stamps: Vintage Vogue & On Your Birthday
• Card Stock/Paper: Rich Razzleberry, Very Vanilla, & Cottage Wall DSP
•  Ink: Rich Razzleberry & Old Olive
• Other: Big Shot, Top Note die, Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder, Old Olive 5/8 Satin ribbon, Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware & Stampin' Dimensionals.

We're getting ready to get some thunderstorms, so I better sign off. I hope to have something new to share soon. Have a wonderful week!

Julie

What a day!

Today was quite a day. One of those days when you already have a plan, but it doesn't turn out that way. I had plans to have lunch with a friend and to spend some time in my stamp room. Those of you that read my blog on a regular basis, know that I have a little Chinese Dwarf hamster that I adore. Snuffy has been acting strange lately (slouching forward, laying around, heavy breathing, no running in his wheel, etc.) I decided that if he made it through the night last night, I would take him to the vet today. I was able to get an appointment at 11am. I spent a little time in my stamp room before going to the vet. I was happy to clean up my desk. It's so much easier to work when you can see the top of it. LOL!

Snuffy has a respiratory infection. The doctor gave him fluid under the skin and gave me antibiotic drops to give him one drop twice a day. She also said that he has a 50/50 chance of making it. I had to at least try. I keep him in my stamp room/office, so I'm able to keep an eye on him. I'm happy to report that he's been getting up to drink water. I'm praying that he will be up and running in his wheel soon.

Tonight I pulled out a little craft keeper with a couple unfinished projects in it. I found this, which I made last year, but never put it together with adhesive, etc. My aunt wanted some cards and she requested light blue, lime green and yellow. I pulled out Cool Caribbean, Green Galore &; Summer Sun. She wanted a summery type card. This is what I came up with.

Supplies Used:

• Stamps: Dad's Day & Just Beachy
• Card Stock/Paper: Cool Caribbean, Green Galore, Summer Sun & Whisper White
•  Ink: Cool Caribbean, Green Galore & Summer Sun
• Other: Crushed Curry In-Color Polka Dot ribbon, 2-Way glue pen, Dazzling Diamonds Stampin' Glitter® & Stampin' Dmensionals®.

Gift card & Color Renovation

Good Evening stamp friends!

I'm sorry it has been a while since my last blog entry. We made a last minute decision to take the kids to the beach for Easter. The weather was chilly, but we had a nice time. I even got a "little" stamping done. I always like to take something with me, because the hotel that we stay at has a nice table and I feel very comfortable. This time I went a little crazy when getting something together to take with me. I had to pack in a hurry. (I'm always doing something at the last minute:) I had a project in mind, (to make a baby shower invitation for my sister-in-law) but the only stamp set I took with me was "Fox & Friends". I've been wanting to sort my scraps by color for a few weeks now, so I took that big box with me too. (Isn't that nuts?) Other things I brought with me included the "Chit Chat" rub-ons, a couple sheets of Baja Breeze & Chocolate Chip card stock, "Parisian Breeze" Specialty designer paper, Baja Breeze & Chocolate Chip Classic Ink pads & when I went to grab the Baja Breeze ribbon, I thought to myself that it looked a little thick, but I grabbed it anyway and I also grabbed the "Soft Sky" retired "In-color" ribbon. I held it up to the Parisian Breeze paper and it was a pretty close match. I grabbed the little bag that I carry all of my basic stamping tools in and my paper cutter and was ready to roll.

One evening, my husband took the boys to the arcade to play games, so I sat down at the table with my big box of scraps. I had taken 4 clear envelopes (8x8) that I had at home and I sorted the scraps into the 4 main color families. I was left with the "In-Colors" and "Neutrals". That's when I pulled out the other things that I brought and decided to start with just a simple 3x3 card, but I wanted to use the color scheme I had planned for my sister-in-laws baby shower. I decided to make a gift card. I first tried using the Baja Breeze Striped Grosgrain ribbon, but just like I thought, it was too thick, especially for a little 3x3 card, so I tried the Soft Sky and loved the way it looked. Then I pulled out the Chit Chat rub-ons and used only part of the sentiment "for you and baby".

Here is the final result:

The turtle was stamped using the Baja Breeze stamp pad, because that's all I had with me, but the colors are a pretty close match. What do you think?

Speaking of colors, I have some exciting news to share with you! Stampin' Up! has undergone a Color Renovation! At first, I didn't know what to think of it, with so many colors leaving...especially a lot of colors that I really like and used quite a bit. Then when I actually sat down and looked at the new Color Collections, I thought to myself how beautiful they are. I rarely used Soft Subtles, but now with this change, I can see myself using every one of them. Now the biggest test will be dealing with my impatience until the new Idea Book and Catalog is released in July. I can't wait!!! I love how Stampin' Up! has simplified the colors by including the neutrals in the 4 core collections. It makes life so much easier!

Here are the colors that will be retiring:

Though it may seem a little overwhelming, once I sat down and looked at them, there were so many that I didn't use. (Don't get me wrong, I am a little disappointed to see a few go, but I will make sure to stock up on anything I can't live without. I'm so glad that they gave us extra notice so I will have time to make decisions before the new catalog comes out on July 1st.) Now take a look at the new color palette, which includes 5 brand new colors and 10 In-Colors from the past that are returning. Isn't it gorgeous?

Though I've only been a demonstrator for a little over 6 months, I've been using Stampin' Up! products since I started stamping in September 2006. Since then, with each catalog that has come out, I've added the things I had to have to my wish list and it never fails, I wind up falling in love with many other sets once I see the beautiful creations that were made with them.

I have one last thing to share. I went to a meeting on Friday night and we were looking at some of the older Stampin' Up! catalogs. It was comical seeing what was popular then and seeing how far they have come. Change is definitely a good thing:)

I hope you have a wonderful week!

Julie

Family Birthday's and Sale!

Good morning stamp friends!

I'm sorry it's been a while since my last post, but there is a very good reason for it. I've been super busy planning for my father's 70th birthday surprise party along with my mom and sister. We rented a room at a local community center and got a DJ and made up a story about me being in a craft show to sell my cards on Sunday. LOL! The party was such a huge success with the help of everyone that loves my dad. He is blessed with a very loving family. All of his sister's, brother's, and their kids helped prepare food and sent pictures, so I could make a picture collage of him with family and friends. He had the best time singing (there was karaokee) and dancing ("The Twist"). That night when my parents got home, my dad said to my mom, "That was really awesome!". I'm sending my blog link to his family to read this post and I want to thank each and every one of you for being a part of my dad's very special day. My dad is a very special man. He's been there for his family and has made many sacrifices. He's always offered good advice and has stood by us in everything we do. Dad, I love you so much and I honestly believe that I'm such a loving and caring person because of the way that you and mom raised me. Here is a picture of my mom, my sister, dad & I from his party.

One very unique thing about my family is my dad, mom & I have birthday's in March. Not just 3 days in March, but 3 days in a row! Dad's is the 22nd, Mom's is the 23rd, & mine is the 24th. Talk about March Madness! So yesterday was mom's birthday. On Sunday night at dad's party, my sister wasn't feeling well. She was having some pain in her stomach area that was shooting around to her back. On Monday, she called her doctor and he told her to go get blood work done. He called her yesterday morning to tell her that she had appendicitis and to go to the hospital. My mom left work and took her. My sister was very lucky that her doctor acted so quickly. It could have been so much worse. Her surgery went well and she'll be coming home this afternoon. Mom, I'm sorry that your birthday was so crazy, but I know you were just as happy spending it doing what mom's do best:) I love you!

That leaves me...I've been flooded with birthday wishes today. I'm so very blessed with the best family & friends a person could ever have. I'm very overwhelmed. I will be spending my day with my 4-year old niece. I thought it would be a perfect day for it, since my sister is in the hospital. My father spent the night at my sister's house to get my 2 nephews off to school this morning. Once I pick her up, he can go to the hospital with mom.

I will be running a special today for my birthday (which will expire at midnight tonight-any time zone:). 20% off of your order of $50 or more (before shipping and tax). Remember, the Sale-A-Bration promotion is still in affect, so you will receive a free item for each $50 spent (before shipping and tax). This special is not available for orders placed through my on-line website. Please either send me an e-mail or give me a call. If I don't answer, please leave me a message and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

It's such a beautiful day! The sun is already shinning brightly and it's going to be 63 degrees. I'm looking forward to having fun with my niece:) I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Julie