July 9, 2023

Layering Leaves

I'd like to share a card that I recently came across on my friend Susie's, website. It's actually one of the cards included in this week's Cards in the Mail packets.

I am not sure there is a better card color combination than simple black and white.  I love it!  This paper from the Delightfully Eclectic Designer Series Paper pack is perfect for that.  The Flat Adhesive-Backed Pearls add just the right amount of sparkle and shine.

Stamps: Layering Leaves

Cardstock: Basic White Thick, Basic Black, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: delightfully Eclectic

Ink: Memento Black

Accessories:  Nessted Essentials Dies, Flat Adhesive-Backed Pearls, 

Stampin' Dimensionals

Another stay-at-home and relax kind of stamping day. Later this week things will start to get busy so I will take these quiet relaxing days right now.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

July 8, 2023

Inked and Tiled

Today's card is one I saw on my friend, Susie's site.  It is also in the week's packet of Cards in the Mail.

I finally got my order that had the Nested Essential Dies in it.  I am not sure how I missed getting them when I placed my first new catalog order, but I did.  it seems like I had to wait forever for them to get here.  I have a feeling they will be getting a LOT of use.  I love the layered look they provide.

Stamps: Inked & Tiled

Cardstock: Basic Black, Fresh Freesia, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Delightfully Eclectic

Ink: Memento Black

Accessories:  Nested Essentials Dies, Delightful Doily Hybrid Embossing Folder, 

Adhesive-Backed Sequins Trio, White Glittered Organza Ribbon, 

Mini Glue Dots, 

Stampin' Dimensionals

Today looks to be another beautiful day!!  Yesterday's errands got accomplished as well as a fun lunch out.  Today's plans include more cardstock cutting, baseball and reading! 

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

July 7, 2023

Best Wishes

Today I have used another sentiment from the stamp set, Layering Leaves, as well as one of the designs from the Masterfully Made Designer Series Paper pack.

At first glance, I thought this paper was hideous, but as I looked at it more I realized it just needed to be used in small pieces and toned down a bit with the coordinating cardstock.  This fun fold opens from the top and bottom, exposing the area for writing your message.

Stamps: Best Wishes

Cardstock: Lemon Lime Twist, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Masterfully Made

Ink: Pretty Peacock

Accessories:  Stylish Shapes Dies, Ribbon Combo Pack, Mini Glue Dots,

Stampin' Dimensionals

I didn't get the chance to run my errands in town yesterday, so I plan to do them today. Additionally, I need to cut cardstock for both the Cards in the Mail and Make-It-Monday events this week. Let's hope for a productive day!

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

July 6, 2023

Layering Leaves

Today I have used one of the sentiments from the Layering Leaves stamp set to make this card to share with you.  This is one of this week's Cards in the Mail.

I started with a card base of Basic White Thick and added a layer of Night of Navy.  I punched out several circles in different patterns of Countryside Inn Designer Series Paper and adhered them to another piece of Basic White cardstock.  I then ran it through the Stamp, Cut, & Emboss and adhered it to the card.  Add a sentiment and an embellishment and I was done.

Stamps: Layering Leaves

Cardstock: Basic White Thick, Night of Navy, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Countryside Inn

Ink: Night of Navy

Accessories:  Countryside Blossoms Embossing Folder, 1 3/4" Circle Punch,

Ombre Matte Decorative Dots,

Stampin' Dimensionals

Reading, reading, reading . . . that is about all I did yesterday.  I decided to take a break from standing at my craft table, so I finished one book and started another.  I will make up for it today as I need to get quite a bit of cardstock cut.  I may make a run to town to pick up prescriptions and a few groceries!!  We will see how the cardstock cutting goes.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

July 5, 2023

Share a Milkshake

Today I created a patriotic card using the Share a Milkshake stamp set and the Birthday Balloons Die set.  I wanted to share it with you.

I'm really loving the tag from the Birthday Balloons Die set more and more with each use! It seems like I'll be using it quite frequently. Yesterday, I was able to thread a ribbon through it, and today I can cover up the hole with an embellishment. The possibilities for its use are limitless!

Stamps: Share a Milkshake

Cardstock: Read Red, Blueberry Bushel, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: 6" X 6" Regals

Ink: Blueberry Bushel

Accessories:  Beautiful Balloons Dies,  Basics Embossing Folders,  

Banners Pick a Punch,  Iridescent Rhinestones, 

Stampin' Dimensionals

Yesterday was an amazing day! I enjoyed a lively parade, spent time with friends, took a refreshing afternoon nap, watched the Cubs win, and indulged in some reading. Today, I plan to continue my stamping projects and complete a few long-overdue tasks. It's hard to believe that John and I have an entire week and a half without any scheduled appointments - that's a significant amount of time in our lives! LOL

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

July 4, 2023

Happy 4th of July

Today I have used the Birthday Balloons Dies along with the Share a Milkshake stamp set to make these Hershey Nugget 4th of July favors.  I was afraid that my parade guests might not get enough candy thrown at them this morning!!!

The blue star pattern in the Bright & Beautiful Designer Series Paper was perfect for wrapping my Hershey Nuggets.  My Trays are all red but the tags are a combination of Real Red and Blueberry Bushel. 

Once I got started I kind of got carried away in the making process!  I am sure I can find someone to give them to!!

Stamps: Share a Milkshake

Cardstock: Read Red, Blueberry Bushel, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Bright & Beautiful

Ink: Blueberry Bushel

Accessories:  Beautiful Balloons Dies, Banners Pick a Punch, Red Ribbon, 

As soon as I am done posting this I am headed out the door to set chairs and blankets on the curb in preparation for the parade that goes right up our street.  I know it is just a small-town parade but I surely do love it.  The rest of the day will be spent as most days are . . . baseball, stamping, and reading.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

July 3, 2023

Circle Sayings

Today I have used the Circle Sayings stamp set to create this patriotic card to share with you.

For my card, I began with a base of Blueberry Bushel and layered it with Basic White. I included a strip of designer series paper in Real Red and Basic White. To add some texture, I embossed the banner with one of the Stripes & Splatter Embossing Folder set folders. Lastly, I added a focal point circle. This was one of the cards that all participants made at last week's Make-It-Monday event.

I had an order for ten 4th of July cards and decided to use this design. Unfortunately, I didn't have any designer series paper left, so I created my own red and white strips using cardstock. To enhance the design, I added an extra layer of Real Red cardstock between the Blueberry Bushel and Basic White layers. Overall, I'm pleased with how it turned out!

Stamps: Circle Sayings

Cardstock: Blueberry Bushel, Read Red, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: 6" X 6" Regals

Ink: Real Red, Blueberry Bushel

Accessories:  Stylish Shapes Dies, Give It A Whirl Dies, 

Stripes & Splatters Embossing Folders, 2 3/8" Circle Punch, 

Tinsel Gems Four-Pack, 

Stampin' Dimensionals

Despite the rain, we had a great weekend.  In the words of Johan on his way home . . . 

"Mom, that was just the best. Like we could play and be crazy and then go inside and everyone was still right there. That’s kinda what family is isn’t it?"

I couldn't have said it better myself!!

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

June 30, 2023

Taco Fiesta

Today I am sharing one of the cards I got in the card swap at Suite Demo Days a couple of weeks ago.  It was made by a demo in the Quad Cities area.

I love the way she has used the die from the Stylish Shapes Dies and cut them apart to make banners on the top and bottom of the car.  I can tell you this card would be a lot of work . . . but worth it.  I can't imagine making it for a swap . . . good thing there were;t that many of us swapping!!

Stamps: Taco Fiesta

Cardstock: Basic White Thick, Tahitian Tide, Pumpkin Pie, 

Sweet Sorbet, Granny Apple Green, 

Daffodil Delight, Basic White

Ink: Memento Black

Stampin' Blends::  Daffodil Delight Combo Pack, Sweet Sorbet Combo Pack, Granny Apple Green Combo Pack,  

Accessories:  Stylish Shapes Dies, Alphabet Ala Mode Dies, 

Basics Embossing Folders, Stampin' Dimensionals

Rain rain rain . . . I know we need the rain but I wish it wouldn't rain this weekend.  I guess we will just need to have indoor activities to do this weekend rather than enjoying the outdoors!  I have a feeling there is no Internet at our Airbnb so I will post again on Monday morning.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

June 29, 2023

Darling Details

I'm excited to share a card I made using the Darling Details stamp set and Inked Botanicals Designer Series Paper. I created this card at a Stampin' Sisters' Demo Day and it was also featured in this week's Make-It-Monday card options.

I used Lost Lagoon Ink to stamp the flower outline at full strength and then again used Lost Lagoon on the inside, but this time I stamped off first. To add some sparkle, I used Lost Lagoon Gems from the Tinsel Gems Three Pack.

Stamps: Darling Details

Cardstock: Very Vanilla Thick, Lost Lagoon, Very Vanilla

Designer Series Paper: Inked Botanicals

Ink: Lost Lagoon

Accessories:  Cheerful Daisies Dies, Tinsel Gem Three Pack,

Stampin' Dimensionals

I have a lot of errands to run today, including grocery shopping. This weekend, we're celebrating winter birthdays as well as Mother's and Father's Day by renting an Airbnb and gathering all the kids. It's been challenging to plan a time when we can all be together, so we're excited to try this out. I have a lengthy grocery list, but I'm hoping to find some time for stamping once I'm back home.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

June 28, 2023

Beautiful Balloons

I'm excited to share a card I made using the Beautiful Balloons stamp set and dies, as well as the Bright & Beautiful Designer Series Paper. This card was created during Suite Demo Days and was a popular choice for Make-It-Monday attendees this week.

There is not really much stamping on this card, but it is so cool!!  The paper and the vibrant colors make a card anyone would love to receive!!

This is an Accordion Z Fun Fold card.  It does take a whole sheet of paper, but I think it is totally worth it!!

Stamps: Beautiful Balloons

Cardstock: Lemon Lime Twist, Zaure Afternoon, Berry Burst, Lemon Lolly, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Bright & Beautiful

Ink: Azure Afternoon

Accessories:  Beautiful Balloons Dies, 2" Circle Punch, 

2 3/8" Circle Punch, Adhesive Solid-Backed Gems, 

Stampin' Dimensionals

It seems like another day with beautiful weather, but unfortunately, the air is quite smoky due to the Canadian Wild Fires. I was skeptical about the reports of haze and smoke, but when I went outside last night, the smell and sight of it were undeniable. As a result, I plan to stay indoors today and be productive. I plan to get caught up on my bookworm and then I think it's a good opportunity to indulge in my love for reading - it's time for bookworm mode!

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!! 

Happy Stamping!!

June 27, 2023

Zany Zoo

I wanted to share a card I made using the Zany Zoo stamp set. This design was created during Suite Demo Days. Initially, I wasn't planning on buying the set, but my friend Luetta convinced me that it could be a great addition to my collection.

I added a couple of extra strips of designer series paper to the top and bottom of my card. This was because I accidentally smudged ink on those areas while putting it away. However, as many of you know, mistakes in stamping can always be turned into chances for embellishment!

Stamps: Zany Zoo

Cardstock: Lemon Lolly, Coastal Cabana, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Zoo Crew

Ink: Memento Black

Stampin' Blends:  Lemon Lolly Combo Pack,  Pool Party Combo Pack, 

Pecan Pie Combo Pack,

Accessories:  Zany ZooNested Essentials Dies,  Dies, 

I was able to successfully bring everything I needed for Make-It-Monday without forgetting anything, even with the chaos of Sunday and the rush to prepare everything yesterday. Today's plans include some stamping, plenty of reading, and a bit of baseball.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!! 

June 26, 2023

Circle Sayings

Today I am using the Countryside Inn Designer Series Paper, along with the coordinating Countryside Blossoms Embossing Folder and the Countryside Corners Dies to make this card to share with you.  This is a card I received in a swap and also one that everyone is making tonight at Make-It-Monday.

It is hard to see in the photo but the smaller leaves in the arch of flowers have been colored in with a Boho Blue Stampin' Blend.  I then used Wink of Stella over the flowers to give them a little sparkle.

Stamps: Circle Sayings

Cardstock: Boho Blue, Night of Navy, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Countryside Inn

Ink: Night of Navy

Stampin' Blends:  Boho Blue Combo Pack

Accessories:  Countryside Corners Dies, Countryside Blossoms Embossing Folder, 

2 3/8" Circle Punch, Boho Blue 3/8" Textured Ribbon, 2023-2025 In Color Dots, 

Wink of Stella, 

Stampin' Dimensionals

Yesterday was quite eventful as we experienced a power outage in our house for most of the day. Despite multiple attempts to report the outage using the automated system, I had to find a way to bypass it and speak to an actual person. Thankfully, the representative I spoke to was very helpful and assumed that the problem had been resolved since the repairman had been there earlier. However, that was not the case. The repairman had already been in the area working on an electric pole about half a block away to resolve the issue. He thought the problem was fixed, but it turned out that half of our wires had become unhooked due to a gust of wind, which is why only parts of the house had power. The repairman was quick to resolve the issue, and we had power restored in no time. It was not as exciting as the repairman's first trip to our neighborhood on Saturday night when another electric pole's wires came loose, sparking and prompting a call to the fire department and the electric company. Fortunately, I slept through that one!

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

June 25, 2023

Taco Fiesta

I'd like to share with you the final Fun Fold card from May's Technique Night. This particular card was also created during my February cruise.

The designer series paper I have used in this card is now retired, but any black and white designer paper will work!!

The first flap opens towards the top revealing another stamped image.

The card opens up like a typical one, providing you with ample space to write your message.  Just a little fun way to make your card more special!!

Stamps: Taco Fiesta

Cardstock: Poppy Parade, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Any black and white designer series paper

Ink: Memento Black

Stampin' Blends:  Poppy Parade Combo Pack, Parakeet Party Combo Pack, Gray Granite Combo Pack, 

Accessories:  Black & White 1/4" Gingham Ribbon,

Stampin' Dimensionals

I had a wonderful day yesterday. I spent time with Luetta stamping and attended a virtual stamping event. We worked on creating three beautiful cards using a new stamp set that will be featured in the upcoming Holiday Mini catalog. The event also showcased other sets that will be available in the catalog with some impressive demonstrations. In the evening, I had the pleasure of watching a musical called Frozen Jr., which was a great day all around.

Today brings baseball and cutting cardstock for tomorrow night's Make-It-Monday.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

June 24, 2023

Beautiful Balloons

I recently created a card using the Beautiful Balloons stamp set and coordinating dies. I was happy with the result and decided to use it as my swap card at the Suite Demp Days event in Wisconsin last weekend.

A few weeks ago, I utilized this layout to create some graduation cards, which you can view here. Considering that many people I know have birthdays on or near the 4th of July, I thought this color combination would be ideal for them. The Blueberry Bushel and Real Red strips are sized at .5", while the white strips measure .25". This is an effective method to make use of the small paper strips in my scrap collection. I always seem to accumulate quite a lot of them!

Stamps: Beautiful Balloons

Cardstock: Blueberry Bushel, Real Red, Basic White

Designer Series Paper: Regals 6" X 6"

Ink: Real Red

Accessories:  Beautiful Ballons Dies, Cheerful Daisies Dies, Baker's Twine Essentials Pack, 

Tinsel Gems Four Pack, 

Stampin' Dimensionals

As soon as I am done posting this I am out the door to attend a virtual Stampin' Up Event with my friend Luetta.  I am hoping we can get some more great cards and tips and tricks.  It will be a fun day!!

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!

June 23, 2023

Circle Sayings

I wanted to share a card that I created during Suite Demo Days, which is also included in this week's Cards in the Mail. It features the Circle Sayings stamp set and the Inked Botanicals Designer Series Paper. The paper is currently on sale until the end of the month.

Getting the Baker's Twine onto the two punched-out shapes can be a bit challenging. However, I found that adhering my greeting to the shapes beforehand (a helpful tip from a friend) made it easier to position the twine.

I have created a bookbinding fun fold card that features an inch on the left-hand side that is securely adhered shut, allowing it to open just like a book.

Stamps: Circle Sayings

Cardstock: Crushed Curry, Pebbled Path, Very Vanilla

Designer Series Paper:  Inked Botanicals

Ink:  Early Espresso

Accessories:  Inked & Tiles Punch Pack, Baker's Twine Essentials Pack,

Stampin' Dimensionals

Yesterday was a long day with two appointments . . . one in the morning and one in the afternoon, but the good news was I found a cute little coffee shop that had great coffee, tea, and sandwiches with free WiFi where I could spend the hours in between appointments.  

Today will bring more cardstock cutting and a little stamping and another dentist appointment this afternoon.

Every day is a gift . . . make the most of the gift you have been given today!!

Happy Stamping!!