Stamping With Carol

Been a long time

2011-04-27T20:30:00.002-04:00

Well it's been a long time, if anyone is still visiting me, please let me know. I want to see if it will be worth it to do this again. Thanks, and I've missed you all!

Razzleberry Thinking of You!

2009-07-24T05:00:00.002-04:00

Can we just say I really love the fact that I am trying to get into DSP! I never really got into using DSP on my cards. I don't know why, but I was always of the mind frame - stamp my images, backgrounds and all! Well hello, let me tell you. If you've thought like that - go out on a line - try the paper LOL! I am having a great time playing with it!

So as much as I would like to claim this idea for my own, I am not so talented LOL! I was reading my July issue of Stampin Success, for those of you who are not demonstrators this is a magazine that Stampin Up sends to us full of ideas, and updates, and all the up coming news. It is a great wealth of information. Any how, as I hid away from my chaos of a household for the 5 minutes at a time I can escape, I was flipping through my issue and came across a feature article on a fabulous demonstrator. Her name is Mary Fish and I've been able to follow her blog and get inspired tremendously. After reading her article and seeing her samples. I had to try them on my own. So as I said, as beautiful as this card is, I can only give the credit and a huge thank you for the inspiration to Mary.

Recipe: Razzleberry Lemonade DSP, rich razzleberry, dusty durango, crushed curry, and whisper white card stock, Big Shot, SU Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die, 1/2" circle punch, 1/16" circle punch, corner rounder punch, linen thread, 3/8" white taffeta ribbon.

2009-07-23T05:00:00.005-04:00

Today I was playing with an idea, and again you'll have to forgive me, but I do not remember where the idea came from. If this is from you, please let me know and I will make the appropriate credit! I decided to play with some colors that I wasn't quite sure they would blend, but seemed to come out okay. I think it makes a cute summery (is that a word?) card.

First I took a crushed curry base, then added a layer of old olive punched with the scallop edge punch. I then added a layer of choc. chip. With some scrap of choc chip card stock I stamped the dots from Itty bitty backgrounds with white stazon ink and punched out three circles with the 1 1/4" circle punch. Then punched out three scallop circles in crushed curry. I don't know if you can see in the picture or not but I actually took the paper snips and clipped the edges of the scallops so they would lift a bit. I then punched out a few garden green snippets of the five petal flower punch for the leaves. I added the choc chip centers to the crushed curry scallops and adhered the leaves behind them. Then starting from the center, for positioning purposes LOL, I added the sunflowers to the choc chip layer. I then stamped "just for you" from the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set in choc chip to bottom right corner.

If you haven't already ordered the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set, I would! This is a great set that covers about EVERYTHING! It is $36.95 and includes 24 sentiments....it really does cover about everything for any kind of card you could possibly want to send. It works with just about every punch too, or as you can see on this card just fine by itself!

Well, have a great day! If you have any questions please let me know!

Recipe: Teeny Tiny Wishes and Itty Bitty Backgrounds Stamp sets, crushed curry, choc chip, garden green, and old olive card stock. Choc chip classic ink, white stazon. Scallop edge punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, scallop circle punch, and paper snips.

Feel Better Soon

2009-07-22T05:00:00.001-04:00

I just love how this card came out. This is from our July club meeting, and I think the girls had a really great time making this card, and using all the fun tools! I used the Kind and Caring Level 3 hostess set on this card, as I seem to be using it a lot lately. I think this is my new "favorite" set, if I could have just one :0) The original idea came from a very sweet fellow demonstrator friend Marie. Make sure you go by and check her out!

First I took a melon mambo card base and layered it with whisper white card stock. Then took a layer of DSP, rubbed it over with the embossing buddy to keep the excess powder from sticking (yes this thing really does work) and stamped the flower image in Versa mark and covered it with white embossing powder, then heat set it. On a scrap of white I stamped the "feel better soon" sentiment in melon mambo, punched out with the small oval punch and sponged the edges with melon mambo classic ink. I then punched a scallop oval out of pumpkin pie and layered the sentiment. I then adhered a strip on the melon mambo polka dot ribbon flipped over on the DSP layer and adhered it to the whisper white layer. Then using stampin dimensionals I popped on the scallop oval sentiment.

Have a great day! If you have any questions please let me know.

Recipe: Kind and Caring Thoughts (Level 3 hostess set), Melon Mambo, whisper white, and pumpkin pie card stock. Razzleberry Lemonade DSP, melon mambo classic ink, versa mark pad, white embossing powder, embossing buddy, powder pal, SU heat tool, small oval punch, scallop oval punch, stampin sponges, melon mambo polka dot ribbon (flipped over).

Have a Honey of a Day!

2009-07-20T05:00:00.005-04:00

Have a honey of a day!

This was a fun exciting card to make. It took me two tries to get it right, LOL but that is part of learning right! My idea came from a fellow demonstrator in Ontario, Canada. Dale is a super talented stamper and I love stopping by her blog to see what she's up to. Go see Dale. See what cool things she is up to! And thank you Dale for the continued inspiration.

So...here is how I did this, and I learned this the second time LOL. Remember you can't punch through several layers of CS with the punches, so you have to punch one layer at a time. This is what I did. First I punched out a 1 1/4" circle, and punched the scallop around it. Then attached it to a 4 1/4" x 5 1/2 layer of crushed curry with a two way glue pen. This helped to layer the scallops so they were even on the card and not over lapping each other. Then using the 1 1/4" circle punched, I punched the circles out of the crushed curry, attached it to the whisper white card base and punched the circles out of the whisper white.....surprise....yes the little little bees are on the white on the inside of the card! I then colored in the bees and the flower on the front using yoyo yellow and basic grey S&W markers, then using the gel pen added some accent to the flower and added the dots around the scallops.

Have a great day, and if you have any questions please let me know :0)

Recipe: Just Buzzin' By stamp set, crushed curry, whisper white, and basic black card stock, yoyo yellow, basic grey stamp & write markers, basic black classic stamp pad, signo gel pen, 1 1/4" circle punch and scallop circle punch.

Celebrate Your Day!

2009-07-17T05:00:00.002-04:00

Celebrate Your Day is a complete case....but I can't remember from who! If this is your card...I will gladly give you the credit, just please let me know. I had seen it while blog hopping one day. Let me tell you, as simple as it looked, I've never torn a card apart so many times LOL! And I think I actually tore it apart one more time after this picture because my real red strip is smaller hee hee hee!

Okay, so off to what I did. I stamped the top part of a whisper white base with the speckle stamp in Itty Bitty Backgrounds in only orange classic ink, then taking my word window punch and my bag of bold bright scraps (gasp....yes I used scraps on a card) I punched out four or five of the following colors: only orange, yoyo yellow, tempting turquoise, and real red. I then adhered them to the back of a strip 3/4" x 5 1/4" (you'll have to trim the edges to get them all to fit) and tied a 1/4" temp turq. grosgrain ribbon. Then at the bottom of the card from the Celebrate stamp set, I stamped celebrate in temp. turq. and your day in real red. I then punched 3 - 3/4" circles out of yoyo yellow and inserted the turq brad from the bold bright brads and attached them to the card using stampin dimensionals. Nothing exquisite, but I seen it and thought it would be fun to try....and I'll pass next time J/K LOL!

Have a great day, and if you have any questions please let me know.

Recipe: Whisper white, only orange, real red, temp turq, and yoyo yellow card stock. Only orange, temp turq, and real red classic ink. Word window punch, 1/4" turq grosgrain ribbon, 3/4" circle punch, bold brights brads, stampin dimensionals. Celebrate stamp set, Itty Bitty Backgrounds stamp set.

Thanks I Needed That....

2009-07-16T05:00:00.005-04:00

This card was super easy, and super fun! It seems really bright and uplifting to me as well!

First I randomly stamped the flower from Holiday blitz in pixie pink on the pixie pink base card. Then I stamp the bird image from Fun & Fast Notes in black stazon on water color paper. Using my S&W markers, I outlined the images I wanted to color, then blended the color around with the blender pens. Using the 1/16" circle punch I punched a small hole in the middle of the flower and attached a small pink circle fire brad. Then using the cutter kit distresser, I distressed the edges on the watercolor paper and the ballet blue cs. I attached the layers and adhered it to the card. Like I said...super easy, super fun!

Have a great day, if you have any questions please let me know.

Recipe: Fun & Fast Notes stamp set, Holiday Blitz stamp set, cutter kit, circle fire brads, pixie pink, ballet blue, and glorious green S&W markers, pixie pink classic stamp pad, pixie pink cs, ballet blue cs, water color paper, 1/16" circle punch, blender pens, black stazon.

Flight of the Butterfly!

2009-07-13T05:00:00.003-04:00

Wouldn't we all like to be able to fly away on occasion hee hee hee! People make a difference in our lives everyday, make sure you tell them....even if it a, "hey! you're in my thoughts!"

I think you know how I did this one, but I'll give a quick run down LOL! Stamped the flat butterfly image in yoyo yellow and two stepped the dotted outline in glorious green. Then stamped the one person...in glorious green following the butterfly :0) I stamped a the "thank you on the lower right corner of the card (can't remember what set its from ;{) oops!) I scallop edged the glorious green CS, then layered the whisper white cs on top. Then adhered it to the card. Then I used the signo gel pen and added the accent to the glorious green.

Enjoy! If you have any questions, please let me know!

Recipe: Flight of the butterfly stamp set, Yoyo yellow, glorious green, and whisper white CS, yoyo yellow, glorious green classic ink. scallop edge punch, signo gel pen.

A Friend Strengthens You

2009-07-12T05:00:00.004-04:00

The picture of this card didn't come out very well. But the sentiment was enough.

I have found in the last 7 months that all of my strength has come through my friends and family. This was a card we did for a fundraiser for Relay for Life, and I made several extras afterwards. As I said...it was the sentiment.

I stamped the sentiment from Gods Blessings in rose red where I wanted it first, then stamped petal images off the paper on all four corners to layer around the sentiment. Then on the lower corner I stamped the center flower image on the card, then one on a scrap and punched it out with the 1" circle punch, then added it to the card with a dimensional. Very quick, very basic....but clearly makes a point! If you wanted to add some pizazz to it....add some glitter :0)

Enjoy, and if you have any questions please let me know.

Recipe: Pick a petal stamp set, Gods Blessing stamp set. Apricot Appeal classic ink, rose red classic ink, 1" circle punch, stampin dimensionals.

Just Buzzin By!

2009-07-11T11:45:00.004-04:00

This is one of my favorites. A bit time consuming but so worth it in the end. I was very excited! Very rarely do I actually send out cards anymore because I can't seem to find the time to sit down an write anything, but this one I want to get in the mail to my Mom. There is a very long story that goes with Mom....and I don't talk to her as often as I would like, but I want her to know she is ALWAYS on my mind!

For this card I started with a basic whisper white card base then added from there! I punched a scallop out of some scrap and then sponged the clouds around the scallop. I think I used bashful blue ;) Then I stamped the two flowers and a half a bee off the side of the card. I colored them in with S&W markers and used 2 way glue and dazzling diamonds on the flowers and bee wings. Then I went to some scrap and stamped the bee hive, and a bee at the hive. I water colored it with summer sun I think ;) and close to cocoa. I added it to the card with stampin dimensionals to raise it off the page. Then I took some scrap and got to snipping with my very awesome very sharp SU paper snips (I love those little scissors). Then fanned down the blades a little to look like the grass, taller grass that is..more specifically {my grass actually....in need of a good cut LOL}.

So there you have it today, hope you enjoy and if you have any questions, please let me know.

Recipe: As close as I can get it :0) Just Buzzin By stamp set, Whisper white CS, Old Olive CS, bashful blue classic ink, cameo coral classic ink, yoyo yellow S&W marker (on the bees), basic black S&W marker, regal rose and ballet blue S&W markers (on the flowers), aqua painters, summer sun classic ink, 2 way glue, stampin dimensionals, scallop circle punch and paper snips.

A little Somethin!

2009-07-10T05:00:00.001-04:00

This card I put together for no reason at all other than to try out the scallop border and try to play with some color combos that I don't usually use. I have since learned the technique and layering Ha, ha, ha! So coming cards using this will look much better! LOL. Not typical colors for me to use, and don't know that I would use them again....but I thought I would share :0)

Recipe: The set is a retired hostess set, A Little Somethin', Itty Bitty Basics (currently available). Cardstock used: Kiwi kiss, regal rose, rose red, basic gray, and vanilla. Tools: corner rounder, scallop edge punch, regal rose S&W marker.

Enjoy! Have a great day, and if you have any questions, please let me know.

God's Beauty!

2009-07-09T05:00:00.002-04:00

I absolutely hate this set retired! It is such an awesome set. This is a card we made at stamp club last month (June) Can you guess what stamp set my hostess selected LOL! We also used the retiring in colors, which I am missing, but not as much as I thought I would as the new in colors have definetly gained my love hee hee hee!

Here we used a technique I had never tried for fear of the delicate nature of the paper. So I closed my eyes, took a breath, stamped the butterfly in pacific point on vellum (not the cardstock), and cut away. I even mangaged to cut it out well LOL! My club members were a little nervous as well, but when we were done, everyone was pleased and quite surprised how easy it was. And, how not so delicate the paper is. I think we'll use it more now.

Recipe: Gods Beauty Stamp Set, Pacific point cardstock, kiwi kiss cardstock, old olive 5/8" grossgrain ribbon, confetti white cardstock, pacific point classic ink, kiwi kiss classic ink, pink pirouette classic ink, soft subtles brads, stampin dimentionals, and mini glue dots.

Have a great day, and let me know if you have any questions!

Water color experiment!

2009-07-08T05:00:00.003-04:00

This card was more of a test project for me. I have a really hard time getting the water coloring bit just "right". So one day I went on strike around home and sat down to play. I found out it really is a technique that you just have to sit and play with.

I started out using a 2 1/2 x 3 piece of confetti white cardstock. Stamped the image in black stazon, then using coordinating stamp and write markers, I colored in my images with my lightest color first then blending in a darker highlight. I also used colors I wouldn't usually mix ( a scrap from here or there) In the end I was pleased with the results as it gave me "something different" LOL, not something I usually do. I mounted the confetti white on an old olive piece of CS 3 x 3 1/2, then using stampin dimensionals I added them to my base card. For the base I used a cardsize Pacific Point (now retired :0(, sorry) a scrap of kiwi kiss (also retired) 1 1/4 x 5 1/2, and layed old olive ribbon over the kiwi kiss. I stamped my verse, Three litte words... and inside I stamped "thinking of you". The three little words stampe set is still available, and is a great stamp set for anything you want to say.

So, have fun, go create and let me know if you have any questions.

Teacher Thank Yous

2009-07-06T10:34:00.002-04:00

These were our Teacher Appreciation gifts that my kids took in to school. They were so simple, yet the teachers loved them. We sent these in for all the teachers and assistants that my kids had this year.

I used some old DSP cardstock that I had from an old scrappin kit. We sent the pieces through the Big Shot using the Pillow Box die. I love this die as there are many uses for it. (We have a cool project for back to school that we are planning on doing). We used sticky strip along the box seal as it holds best for these. Then stuffed them with some chocolate minatures. Punched out a thank you with the square scallop, added a gold eyelet, some gold cord, and tied ribbon around it. A simple recipe for a quick thank you. Would make great party favors, or a trinket box for smaller gifts.

Have a great day, and let me know if you have any questions.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T05:00:00.001-04:00

This card I just made for one of the dearest women in our lives....Grandma. Troys grandma is possibly the sweetest woman I have ever met. We go by and visit with her a couple times a week and talk, and lately she seems to keep our schedules straight with life and everything at church. And this is my way of saying Thank You to her!

Recipe: I used a basic white card, and blocked off a 2 x 2 1/2 section in the right upper corner of the card. Then with an old SU stencil (I can't remember the name of it) I sponged the lines in real red. Then using my small star punch I punched out a few stars and lightly adhered them to the blocked off area and sponged brilliant blue around the stars. Then using a two way glue pen and dazzling diamonds glitter I filled in the stars. Then stamped Celebrate today from the Celebrate stamp set.

That's it, hope you enjoy it, and have a wonderful Independence Day - and thank you to all of our Veterans who have made it that way!

Happy Birthday Line-Up!

2009-06-27T18:44:00.005-04:00

Okay, sorry for the lapse. I had to dig way back in the pictures to find something I hadn't posted. All the recent stuff is still in the camera somewhere (I don't know where my camera is....oops!) But anyway, this was actually a case from my dear friend Jenni up in PA, it was in her post back in January and I think it was around that time I cased it :0)

I had a bunch of birthdays that seem to hit all at once and these were super easy to reproduce quickly. I used various colors from the bold brights with a two tone look, and added a layer of basic gray to them. Stamped Happy birthday in that darker color. The little gift was from the holiday blitz set that is still quite current my friends, and very useful! Have a great day....I'll try to get some more stuff up this week!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

Well, to my own amusement I was browsing pictures in my computer tonight and realized I had taken a picture of a card I had planned for our February Stamp Club. Unbeknown to me, there wasn't going to be a meeting, and God knew that but I did not!!!! Any whooooooo, I had worked steady at this card for about two days, then was not so satisfied....but here it is anyway!You will have to forgive me, as I do not remember all that I used, but I can give you the basic idea :0)

On a round metal edge tag, I glued four of the little hearts punched in glorious green card stock from the 3 hearts punch, and a scrap for the stem. I then used two-way glue and covered in the green glitter, then covered the tag with crystal effects (this took 2 full days to dry), punched a circle out of a scrap of gold card stock and popped the circle scallop. Stamped the clovers in glorious green on glorious green, paper pierced the edge, ran a scrap of whisper white card stock across the bone folder to break the particles some (make it more pliable) stamped celebrate in glorious green, snipped the corners to give it a banner look and attached it with dimensionals. I sponged the banner some with gable green and glorious green on the edges to give it some dimension.

Sorry that's not the best recipe in the world, and I wasn't gonna even post this card, but St. Patty's Day is coming, I did make it, just not thrilled with it. The idea came together better in my head. Enjoy! I am off to bed to start another day tomorrow!

Love You Much

2009-01-19T17:25:00.002-05:00

This was a very fun peaceful card to make. Silly I know, but it was :0) Here's what I used!

Stamps: Love you much stamp set (113756; set of 6 -$25.95) Paper: Candy cane lane DSP 4" x 4-1/4", vanilla cs card (finished size), Pink Pirouette 2 - 3/4" x 2 1/2", confetti white 2 1/4" x 2 1/2", kiwi kiss 4 1/4" x 2". Ink: Riding hood red Classic Stamp Pad, Kiwi Kiss Classic Stamp Pad, Jet Black Staz-On. Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, 3 hearts punch, glue pen, dazzling diamond glitter, blender pens, scallop edge punch, 1/16" circle punch, stampin dimensionals, and paper snips.

On the confetti white, I stamped the Love stamp (omit the flower) in Black Staz-on. Then using my ink pad lids picked up color with my blender pen and added color to the image. I then punched out just the little heart from the DSP and attached where flower was. I then used my glue pen and went over the letters and covered with daz. diamonds. I adhered the confetti on pink piroutte. I attached the DSP to the card front and adhered my image with stampin dimensionals. I then stamped the hearts in kiwi kiss on kiwi kiss and used the scallop edge. I then used the 1/16" circle and punched each scallop and attached to the bottom of the card. Have fun and I hope this is some inspiration to you!

Hugs & Kisses

2009-01-16T10:25:00.003-05:00

This card was so much fun, and really pretty simple. It was fun to make and quick and easy to replicate (could be cute for all of those little valentines to send to school!

Stamps: Love you much stamp set (available with the new catalog; set of 6 -$25.95) Paper: Riding Hood Red: scraps, Candy cane lane DSP scraps, vanilla cs card (finished size), Pink Pirouette 4 - 1/4" x 5 1/2" and scraps. Ink: Riding hood red Classic Stamp Pad, Pink Pirouette Classic Stamp Pad Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, 5/8" vanilla grossgrain ribbon, linen thread, 3 hearts punch from new catalog, small and large tag punches, scallop circle punch, and 1 - 1/4" circle punch, 1/16" circle punch, sponges, stampin dimensionals, and paper snips.

First I stamped the big heart from Love you Much in Pink Pirouette on the Pink Pirouette cs randomly. I then stamped two of the scallop stamps in riding hood red ink, one on pink pirouette and punched the center with the 1 1/4" circle, then the same scallop in riding hood red ink on riding hood red cs and punched with the scallop punch. I attached the circle on the center with a stampin dimensional. I then punched the hearts out of candy land dsp, punched two small tags in pink pirouette, and two large ones in riding hood red cs. I sponged the edges of the pink pirouette tags with riding hood red ink, and assembled my tags for layering. Using the 1/16" circle - punched the two small holes and threaded the lined thread and tied a knot. I slid the linen thread on the 5/8" vanilla grossgrain and attached to the pink pirouette background then popped the hearts with stampin dimensionals. I then attached the bottom tag with snail and the top tag with a dimensional for dimension. I added dimensionals to my scallop popped them on the card. And boom - I was done. Sounds like a lot, but with the punches doing the majority of the work. It was really quite simple and a great way to use all the scraps laying around.

Christmas - You said What?

2009-01-15T11:53:00.006-05:00

Tis the season to be jolly, fa la la la la la la la la!

Ha ha ha! Okay, I am being silly. Is there anyone out there who did not get to send out Christmas cards this year? Well, I am one of them. I had the stuff ordered back in August, but ya know this came up and that came up and before I knew it, I was like oh crap......Christmas is tomorrow. Now, I know as a crafter, stamper, and demonstrator, this is a sin! My grandmother infact informed me I would not be getting a card next year........because I did not send her one. How low am I, to make Gram tell me that?

So, to all my lovely friends!!!!!! Here is my challenge to you! I want to make just 10 cards a month (more if you choose, and different if you want) but need to be accountable to get them done. My goal is ten of the same card each month, but a different card each month (same if you prefer). So you have Jan - Oct, that will give you atleast 100 cards to send or sell! I will have to send them out, especially to make up for this year. So..........who's in with me? I need to be accountable to several people who will make me feel very bad if I don't get it done!

You can use any stamp set you choose, retired or not (some of mine will be) ;0) and have you either email a picture to me, or send an actual sample (I will return it to you if you want, or put it with samples to inspire others). I would also like to post them on my blog for all the world to see *and I will give you the credit for your work* I must have everyones by the last day of the month so I can have them posted within the first week.

So.......let me know who is interested. I will put you on the list! You can email me at caroladoyle@yahoo.com or leave a comment on my blog and I will add you to the list.

1) Carol Doyle
2) Kim Jernigan
3) Linda Funk
4) Kelly Johnson
5) Brecya Greinke

*This post will stay at the top for a few days to give everyone a chance to get in on it with me. Scroll down for current post!

Friend to Friend

2009-01-15T06:15:00.002-05:00

Stamps: Love you much stamp set (available with the new catalog; set of 6 -$25.95) Paper: Riding Hood Red: 2-1/8" x 5-1/2", Candy cane lane DSP 2-1/8" x 5-1/2", vanilla cs card (finished size), & scrap vanilla cs Ink: Riding hood red Classic Stamp Pad, Chocolate Chip Classic Stamp Pad Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, 1/4" chocolate chip grossgrain ribbon, designer label punch, vanilla hodge podge, and paper snips.

First I stamped the hearts from Love you much in Choc chip on DSP, stamped the verse "friend to friend" in choc chip on the riding hood red cs. Stamp the love birds in riding hood red on vanilla cs scrap, punch with designer label punch and insert into vanilla hodgepodge. I then threaded the choc chip 1/4" ribbon in holes in hodgepodge under the back and up in second hole. Adhere both ends of the ribbon to the back side of the riding hood red cs. I attached the close to cocoa DSP first, then the riding hood red.

Enjoy, I hope you are inspired :0)

From the Heart

2009-01-14T09:17:00.004-05:00

I was so inspired by my friend Marie, her post yesterday just sent me to the stamp table to complete my own creation! She does such wonderful projects and really has her heart in it!

So, here is what I used: Stamps: Love you much stamp set (available with the new catalog; set of 6 -$25.95), Holidays & Wishes (109431; set of 6 - $17.95), Holiday Blitz (109353; set of 28 - $36.95) Paper: Rose Red: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (finished size), Chocolate Chip: 1 3/4" x 5 1/2", Confetti White: 4" x 5" and scraps of confetti white Ink: Riding hood red Classic Stamp Pad, Chocolate Chip Classic Stamp Pad, and Pink Pirouette Classic Stamp Pad Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, Soft Sublte Brads, corner round punch, Stampin dimensionals, build a brad, 1/2" circle punch, 1/16" circle punch, 5/8" vanilla grossgrain ribbon, blender pens, scoring tool on my paper cutter :0), and paper snips.

First I stamped two hearts on the scrap of confetti and punched them with the 1/2" circle and assembled the build a brads. I then took the 4" x 5" confetti and on a diagonal scored every 1/2" both ways to create my grid. I stamped two hearts from Love you much one on confetti, and one on ridding hood red scraps. Using my paper snips I cut both out for a layered look. Picking up ink from the stamp pads, I added some color to the heart. Punched 3 holes with the 1/16" circle and inserted 3 pink brads. I then layered the hearts using stampin dimensionals. I then layered the grid confetti on my rose red base, then tied a bow with the vanilla grossgrain around the choc. chip cs and inserted the build a brads, and mounted it. I stamped my verse "from the heart" in rose red and added my cut out heart with stampin dimensionals as well.

I hope you enjoy this as much as I enjoyed making it. I have three more to post over the next couple days :0) Have a great day!

Winter Wishes

2008-12-31T11:10:00.003-05:00

Thank you Kim for reminding me to get back on track here! I've been slack with the holidays this year and I do apologize! I also have some sneak previews from the new catty that I want to show you all :0)

Stamps: Snow Swirled (111690; set of 6 -$24.95), Holidays & Wishes (109431; set of 6 - $17.95)
Paper: Brilliant Blue: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (mounted on whisper white finished size) and 2-1/2" x 2-1/2", Bashful Blue: 4" x 5 - 1/4"and 2-1/4" x 2-1/4", Whisper White: 3-3/4" x 5"and 2" x 2"
Ink: Brilliant Blue Classic Stamp Pad, Bashful Blue Classic Stamp Pad, and Almost Amethyst Classic Stamp Pad
Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, Bold Bright Brads, Ticket corner punch, Stampin Up Crafters Tool Kit

This cards was super cute and super easy. I took the snowflake stamps and randomly stamped the images all over the whisper white CS (hint: stamp your greeting before you stamp the brilliant blue snowflakes, so you don't have a muffled greeting) And, since Christmas is over, a good replacement greeting for this pretty snowflake card could be "Warm Wishes" from the Hugs & Wishes stamp set (109383; set of 6 - $17.95). I then stamped the large snowflake in brilliant blue on the 2" x 2" whisper white cs. Using the ticket corner punch - punch all four corners on the white, bashful blue, and brilliant blue squares. I then slightly adhered the Whisper white, on the bashful blue onto the brilliant blue (you can just adhere a small spot on the corners as the brad will help hold them together) then in the center of the snowflake, using the paper piercing tool and mat pierced a hole through all three pieces. Insert your brad! Put together all of your layers and you have a wonderful winter card! It could make a nice Thank you card too!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, and I wish all of you a wonderful, blessed New Year! May this year be much better for ALL of us!

Why I've Been Away!

2008-12-18T08:46:00.004-05:00

Well I have promised an update on where I have been. I've been home, but have had alot on my plate. We brought home our first Christmas present to the kids on Sunday the 7th, and it has been a handful. ;o) Look and see!

So as cute as she is, Sadie is like having another baby in the house, so that puts me at 6! LOL

Kreativ Blogger Awards!

2008-12-10T09:59:00.003-05:00

Okay, LOL now that I have finally figured out how to capture this picture, and create links on my blog ;o).....I have some awarding to do myself! My dear friend Jenny at Ramblings of Me gave me an award last week that I've been wanting to pass along! So drum roll please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ramblings of Me

From Combat Boots to Rubber Stamps

Stamp With Heather

Paper Pleasing Ideas

Bec's Stampin Space

These are just a few of my favorite sites that I get so much inspiration from. Stop by and give these ladies a shout! They work very hard at the projects and information they pass along with us fellow stampers and crafters! They are an inspirtation to me as I am sure they will be you too! Have a wonderful day!

*Side note, I have an annoucement......for later. I will post pics!

All Spruced Up!

2008-12-05T11:37:00.002-05:00

This one was fun....all because of the coloring :o) I don't care how old you get, it's always fun to color. Very basic supplies are needed to make a fabulous Christmas card - quickly! Let's get you started ;o)

Stamps: Fun and Fast Notes (109515; set of 8 -$30.95)

Paper: Sage Shadow: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (finished size), Real Red: 3" x 2 - 1/4", Whisper White: 2" x 2 1/4"
Ink: Basic Black Classic Stamp Pad, Stamp & Write Markers in: sage shadow, yoyo yellow, brilliant blue, and real red
Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, 6" of Red Gingham Ribbon, Crop-o-dile, Stampin Up paper snips.

Okay, now you know what we need - let's get started :0) First, omit the verse from your stamp by inking just the tree in basic black and stamp on your whisper white CS. Color in your image with your S&W markers using your own coloring technique. I like using the fine side b/c it gives a sketched look. Using snail, adhere to your Whisper White CS to your Real Red CS. Using the small hole on your crop-o-dile, punch a hole in the left hand corner and tie on your red gingham ribbon. Now, ha....carefully emboss the bumps at the bottom of your real red and sage shadow cardstock. ***I used the crop-o-dile, but be VERY CAREFUL - you will pierce your paper*** Using your real red s&w marker ink just the words on the tree stamp "All Spruced Up" and stamp on the bottom right hand of your card above your embossed bumps. Now, adhere your real red cs to your sage shadow card - and there it is - you have completed another Christmas card. Enjoy and have a wonderful day.

PS. In a day or so I will post a bunch of new pics and show you why I've been MIA ;0)

Merry Christmas Dear Friend

2008-11-23T10:16:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas Dear Friend, what a simple elegant message! This card was super fun, and elegant. I know it's a little common, but red, green, silver, and gold just do it for me when it comes to Christmas.

Stamps: Curly Label Punch Bundle (112966; set of 4with punch -$33.95), Itty Bitty Backgrounds (101893; set of 4 $12.95)

Paper: Whisper White: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (finished size), glorious green 4- 1/4" x 5 - 1/2", Whisper White scraps, glorious green scraps

Ink: Silver Encore Stamping Pad, Real Red Classic Stamp Pad

Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, Stampin dimensionals, 6" of 5/8" Red Grossgrain Ribbon, 6" gold elastic cord, curly label punch, Stampin Up paper snips

I first stamped the Merry Christmas dear friend in real red on whishper white scrap, set aside and stamped the dots from Itty Bitty Backgrounds with the silver encore pad on the glorious green. I then punched my stamped image with the curly lable punch and punch one with the glorious green scrap. I trimmed the edges off my stamped image right down to the stamped image to give it a layered look. I attached with snail the stamped image to the glorious green curly label. I attached the red grossgrain ribbon to card and tied the gold cord around it. I attached to glorious green to whisper white card base, then attached my curly label ensamble using stamping dimensionals. Hope you enjoy and have a great Sunday!

First Christmas Card

2008-11-22T09:14:00.004-05:00

Okay, I have the first Christmas card of the year to post, I have 5 that I did for a stamp and stack, and hopefully by the end of the five I will have more projects to post for you. That is my mission for the weekend hee hee hee! Let's see if I get it done LOL!
Stamps: Merry and Bright(110376; set of 4 -$14.95), Warm Words(107123; set of 8 $20.95 - on the dormant list)
Paper: Real red: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (finished size), real red 5/8" x 5 1/4" strip, real red scallop, Bashful Blue: 4" x 5 1/4", bashful blue 1/4" x 5 1/4" strip, bashful blue 1 3/8" circle, Whisper White: 1 1/4" circle
Ink: Black Stazon, Bashful Blue Classic Stamp Pad, Real red S&W marker, Bashful Blue S&W marker
Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, Stampin dimensionals, 6" of Red Gingham Ribbon, mini glue dots, scallop punch, 1 3/8" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punchFirst I stamped the snowflakes from Merry and Bright in bashful blue in on the bashful blue CS. I then stamped the snowman onto whisper white omitting the phrase merry and bright then punched it out with 1 1/4" circle punch, then sketch colored some of the snowman using the real red and bashful blue S&W markers then layered it on a 1 3/8" circle, then onto the real red scallop. Using snail adhesive I attached the bashful blue to the real red card, then attached the real red 5/8" x 5 1/4" strip, then layered the bashful blue 1/4" x 5 1/4" strip. I then attached the scallop mount using stampin dimensionals. I tied the ribbon in a bow and attached it with a mini glue dot. Stamped "be merry" in black and voila - my first Christmas card. Enjoy!

Why no comments?

2008-11-21T13:13:00.002-05:00

I am a little disappointed. I go through alot of peoples blogs everyday. I try to leave comments once and a while.....do me a favor. If you've hit my blog.....let me know....give me feed back. I feel like I am posting for myself, and if that's the case, I can just save the time and look at my cards in my craft spot :0) Your feed back also helps me create......so PLEASE feed me :0) Have a wonderful day! Will start posting Christmas tomorrow!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-20T13:38:00.002-05:00

Stamps: Fall Flair (111630; set of 8 -Level 2 Hostess), Holidays & Wishes (109431; set of 6 $17.95)
Paper: Riding hood red: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (finished size), Tangarine Tango: 3 3/4" x 2 1/4", Naturals White: 3 1/2" x 2"
Ink: Black Stazon, Riding Hood Red Classic Stamp Pad, Tangarine Tango Classic Stamp Pad, Summer Sun Classic Stamp Pad
Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive, Stampin dimensionals, Aqua Painter, Natural Hemp Twine, Fresh Favorites 1 Buttons, mini glue dots

This was actually alot of fun, took a little time with the watercoloring, but what a great finish! I started by stamping the fall flair images in stazon onto the naturals white (when you watercolor, you want to make sure you use a heavy enough paper or it will warp on you). I then, using my aqua painter picked up color from the lids of the summer sun, tangarine tango, and riding hood red stamp pads. Make sure you go from lightest to darkest and clean your brush in between :0). I then layered the white onto the tangarine tango, put stampin dimensionals on the back of the tangarine tango and mounted it onto the riding hood red card. I threaded some hemp twine through a small always artichoke button, tied a knot, frayed then ends of the twine, popped a glue dot on the back and attached it to the top layer. I stamped the Happy Thanksgiving Greeting in Stazon (because it was already out) on the front! Have fun recreating and have a great Thanksgiving!

Fun Fall Card

2008-11-19T14:07:00.004-05:00

A very simple and basic card - I seem to be doing this alot lately. Now I seen this on someone elses site but for the life of me can not find it again to give the credit, so if it was on your site, please let me know and I will add it here.

Stamps: Heard from the Heart (111644; set of 4 $22.95)
Paper: Sage Shadow: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (finished size), Old Olive: 3 1/4" x 3 1/4", Always Artichoke: 3" x 3", Maine Blueberry DSP (6 - 1" squares)
Ink: Always Artichoke Stamp and Write Marker, Always Artichoke Classic Stamp Pad
Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Snail Adhesive

I took the 3 x 3 Always Artichoke and layed the 5 - 1" blocks from outside to in, then cut the last 1" block twice from corner to corner and layered them. I then used the Always Artichoke S&W marker and did a faux stitch around the quilt squares. I layered the Always Artichoke on the 3 1/4" x 3 1/4" Old Olive and onto the Mellow Moss card. I stamped the Kindness sentiment from Heard from the heart in Always Artichoke. This could definetly be a good use for all the scrap DSP you have laying around, because you know we all hold on to our pieces that are left ;0) Hope you enjoy! and Happy stamping!

My Dear & Kind Friend!

2008-11-10T08:45:00.005-05:00

A fun and easy fall card I think can go to anyone male or female! And depending on the occasion will make for the selection of greeting on the inside.
Stamps: All Holidays (109397; set of 12 $31.95), Bitty Basics (111606; set of 10 Level 1 Hostess)
Paper: Baja Breeze: 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" (finished size), Night of Navy: 3" x 2-1/4", Whisper White: 2-1/4" x 2"
Ink: Night of Navy Classic Stampin’ Pad, Versa Mark Pad
Stampin’ Up! Accessories: Flower Fusion, Gold Brads, Stampin’ Dimensionals, Snail Adhesive, Scallop Edge Punch

I stamped the flower in versamark randomly on the Baja Breeze CS, this pulls the color without a full color bold image. It creates more of a water mark and will work with most of the CS colors (hint: it does work better on the medium colors). I stamped the verse in Night of Navy on Whisper white, cut night of navy cs 1/2 longer on side and punched with Scallop edge punch. Assembled 3 flowers from flower fusion, put them together with a brad and assembled the card. Even though the flowers are already raised, I attached them with a stampin dimensional to give them a little more lift!

I hope you enjoy the card today. I do have more to take pictures of and will try to get to it today LOL! We'll see what wrench comes my way, but also have the cards finished from my Christmas card stamp and stack which I will post shortly! Have a great day, and create something beautiful :0)

Simple Hello

2008-11-07T09:25:00.003-05:00

Hey! I haven't fallen off the face of earth, just super busy as always. Have had time to take a couple pics, and actually spent yesterday cutting for 80 cards....I have a stamp and stack this weekend and was please how well Zachary (3) cooperated and let Mommy cut paper ALL day LOL!

This is one of the latest cards I have made. Very simple, very basic...but I love it!

I used Pink Pirouette CS to start!
Stamp Sets:
Itty Bitty Background
Cute and Curly Label & Punch
Bitty Basic Hostess set.

I stamped the speckled background in pink pirouette, then the butterflies in regal rose. I embossed the label with SU silver emboss powder on the silver CS for the faux metal look ( I like it :0) and punched it out with the curly label punch (one of my favorites) Put on a loop of 5/8 " Regal Rose ribbon and popped it on with Stampin' Dimensionals. I stamped the hello a little sideways, but that just fits life right now. Enjoy the card and hope it gives you some inspiration!

Battle of the Dragonfly!

2008-10-22T12:07:00.005-04:00

This was not a great picture, but the card came out really pretty!

To create the card, I used:
Pick a Petal Stamp Set
Big Birthday Candle (dormant - still available)
3/4" circle punch
1/2" circle punch
The colors: Elegant Eggplant stamp pad and stamp and write marker and Kiwi Kiss stamp pad, I love how they worked together too.

I stamped the petal images with kiwi kiss, then the outline in elegant eggplant, then stamped the happy birthday sentiment in elegant eggplant. I punched two 3/4" circles, and three 1/2" circles and adhered them with glue dots. Make sure to glitter some of his body with two way glue and dazzling diamonds to give him some sparkle. I drew his little antennae with elegant eggplant stamp and write markers.

So stamp your cards, and change your colors and let me see your creations! I would love to see where you go with it from here! I think with the color choice too, it would make for a cool male card....Hope you enjoy it too!

Spinning Birthday Wishes

2008-10-19T18:23:00.002-04:00

This is one of my recent favorites! The spinner card. The scallop actually spins along the card. We used two of Stampin Ups new In-Colors (which I happen to love) Tangarine Tango and Pacific Point! Add Wow flowers and your birthday wishes sentiment and it is a card to send all year long. For instructions on how to do this, let me know you are interested and we can schedule a workshop that fits your time schedule. This is lots of fun with a few cents and the Stampin Up dimensionals!

Altered Tins Class Results

2008-10-16T12:01:00.005-04:00

This one I made for Grandma Lockamy for her birthday Saturday, not part of the class...but came out very well!
We had so much fun at our class on Tuesday night. I forgot to pull the camera out during the class LOL, but did get the end results.....and Ladies.....you did a rockin job! I was very pleased. And now I'll tell you the first one I did, I tossed from frustration.....and none of you went there LOL! So see my girls in all there glory....and if you have never been to a class...c'mon out. We do have an awesome time.

The really cool thing was we all used SU Maine Blueberry DSP and they all came up with different tins. So if you are ever worried about all your projects looking the same, just look at these pics....I assure they won't!

Kim had so much fun, and she was dreading it the most! Smiles and a beautiful tin were the end result!

Debby was also a little worried, but took home smiles and a perfectly beautiful tin.....and after sleeping on it....is going to do more of them (make sure you send me pics Debby)

Jenny is a pro at this, and I didn't worry a bit about her. Don't know if she was nervous or not, but she did enjoy a night out with the girls, and made some new friends. She too left with smiles and beautiful tin!

Backtrack to Father's Day!

2008-10-15T08:19:00.003-04:00

I am still backtracking to get you guys caught up on all of the projects I have been working on for the past few months. Let's look at it this way, you can start now for next year and be one step ahead. Hee hee hee. Unlike me who is still putting it together as I walk out the door! Fathers Day has come and gone, but these are the cards we made!

Like in my previous post, again retired colors and stamp set.....but this is just a template for you to make a different card! Here we used a blue bayou card, with wild wasabi and groovy guava layers. Image stamped in chocolate chip, and the brads aren't really brads at all :0) They are faux brads made with SU Crystal effects. This is an awsome product with many uses. Let me know if you want to learn more, we can schedule a workshop. Now, my challenge to you. Change up the colors: Pacific point, kiwi kiss, and tangerine tango - what do ya think? Send me your pictures and I will post them. Have a wonderful day and create something fun :0)

Back Track to Mother's Day!

2008-10-13T13:22:00.006-04:00

Okay, okay, I have not fallen off the face of the earth! LOL, just super busy! For the next few days I will start letting you in on some of the things I have been working on over the past few months......yes, I said months. I wanted to make sure I catch you guys up. Also, it's that time of year where everyday could be something new on here. So keep checking back, and let me know what you think. Also, I've said this before. If you have something you've done, I'll post it here too, so let me see it!Back track to Mother's Day! Here I used a retired set, and colors, but change up the colors and the stamp set, change the sentiment to something fall or Christmas. And you have a new card. Super easy, super fun! So when you create your card, using this layout, let me see it. Have a great day!

Didn't Do It!

2008-09-16T19:55:00.004-04:00

Okay, I didn't do the Crepe Myrtle Fest. I know I was supposed to get it done, but....I didn't, family had to come first, and we've had so much going on. But :0) You like that don't ya! I did come up with lots of stuff to do finally, and I am going to start putting projects together! The ideas really started flowing on friday, don't laugh, it's true! Too late you say......never.......there's always next year, and then I won't stress hee hee hee! Good logic right!

There was one I created that I'll share with you. The rest are extra cards I've made and put in the basket through the year. I might post some of them over time LOL!

A step ahead of yesterday!

2008-09-10T11:53:00.001-04:00

Okay, okay, okay! I have three cards done from yesterday, yes.....just three! Anyway I was reminded by my wonderful friend Rita that I had some left from last year......hello Carol....go through your boxes once and awhile LOL! And I have some ideas, yes.....small ideas......so now someone please kick my butt and get it into gear! There could be some reward for doing so :0)

In a serious Funk!

2008-09-09T10:01:00.001-04:00

Okay ya'll.....now let's see who really reads this! I am in a serious stamping funk and need some help. I can not motivate myself to do ANYTHING! One major problem is, I have a craft show to do in 4 days and have done NOTHING! Any suggestions??????

Where in the World! has Carol been?

2008-07-10T09:47:00.002-04:00

Well, it's July.....and I've been gone for a while. I do apologize. There was this crazy experience that took over my life called.......WORK! I have recently resigned from my position, and am seeking employment so please keep me in your prayers. I have done some stamping.....but very little, and sorry no pictures. I will get to it as soon as I can. Can you ever forgive me? I started working on some card boxes (forgive me gifts for a friend I've had to blow off this week) and will snap some shots when I am done. I am also going to start penciling in some stamp time for my escape.........Lord knows I need it. I look forward to interacting with you all again. It is good to be back :0)

Keeping in Touch

2008-01-13T21:38:00.000-05:00

Hi guys! Sorry I've been out of the loop right now. Since the separation it's been a bit crazy around here. Trying to get alot figured out and with working now, not a lot of play time. Keep checking in on me.........there's hope yet! Talk to you soon.

Meadow Lights 2007

2007-12-21T23:20:00.000-05:00

This is one of our favorite places to go each year. It is a small, but a fun little family place that is just full of fun and Christmas cheer! It's in a little town called Meadow, NC! They have an awesome train ride, a old time candy store, and Santas house! It really is a beautiful place!

Before we go for the train ride through the lights, it is always fun to grab a snack and hot chocolate :-) Makes the winter so warm!

It's important to dress warm, because it always seems colder there too.....it's that magic of Christmas that keeps it fun!

Even before the candy store, it is the train ride that the kids get so excited about. It really is a wonderful display.

Just a small view of what we ride around through :-)

Matthew was easy to see Santa, and knew just what he wanted!

Zachary we had to come back after the train ride, and Santa had to bribe him with a Lollipop! The power of the lollipop..........gotta love it! And consistently for the last few weeks all he has asked for is a "blue fast car". Well a little talk with Santa myself, and it has been arranged LOL!

Gobble Gobble Gobble!

2007-11-20T12:28:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone! Just want to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving. Just so you know I am still alive and well.....LOL, just really busy here lately. There seems to be more things to do then time to do them....(stop crying Carol)....that's everyones life :-) So since Halloween, I just want to update you all on what I've been doing!

First I finally figured out the altered lunch tins, still haven't quite finished it, not sure if I want my name or cards or recipes on it. LOL Too many options I know. And even though I used flowers on this tin, I'm not real flowery, so I have to figure out what I want to put on top

Then I went to Ritas house and she gave me the directions, and paid a visit to Jennys blog and seen them there too, I was inspired to put my stuff to work! Well I just fell in love and had all the stuff so I ventured to this......and this is the one that captured my stamp clubs attention. They didn't want to see what I was teaching anymore, they wanted to learn these so I gave them the quick run down ;-)

Then I was back at Jennys blog again.......and seen her bows. Well the first few I did looked more like balls....yes I'm not kidding so with patience and practice this was the end result! So I decided with our paper special this month, to sell these at my craft fair.....they were a hit!

And what gift would be complete without a gift tag....well ask me about 570, yes that is 500 + tags later....I'll just write the name on the wrap next year.......just kidding! I did most of these on my hour and half journey everyday through carpool! They were fun!

Then.......after the treat sacks I sent in for halloween, which Matthews class just loved, I had to do something for Thanksgiving right! So I put these together yesterday (yes....you know the day before) and just fell in love with the end result! If I had more time I would have added more feathers and feet......but that's what procrastination gets you LOL! So here are my scrap punch turkeys with sticky strip (yes I ran out of snail) can you believe it.....UPS must hurry....I have cards to make LOL!

So enjoy, I will see you all after Thanksgiving! I will have anywhere from 10-12 people here to eat so I will be starting prep today (yeah you know it wind up being tomorrow or later....hush) Have a great time with your family and friends......and remember.....holiday pounds don't count so eat happy!

Post Halloween!

2007-11-06T22:40:00.000-05:00

Boo! Well this is a quick one guys! I have to get back to making my tags......but want to keep you up to date on what's new! I am going to a name frame class on Thursday that I am very excited about (it's with Rita, and I just know I'll learn something new), then Thursday night I have a class, then I have classes at my house next week that are getting slam full.....yeah! And the next craft fair is next week..........eeeeekkkk.......it was sneaky and came up while we weren't looking......so I am knee deep in tags, bows, and cards, and anything else we can sell......Yeah! I did want to post the cute little treat bags I sent into Matthews class.......yeah, that was last minute too......at 11pm the night before I did them LOL. I do my best work last minute! Enjoy, I'll be back soon!

this one here we made at stamp club last month and was just too cute too leave out!

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T21:09:00.000-04:00

This has been a very weird halloween experience. Never in my life have people broke it up into neighborhoods, but welcome to NC! Last night our town sponsored trick or treat, and tonight they did it in the neighborhoods! Anyway, here are the pictures we took last night!

This is the family taken courtesy of a complete stranger that just really thought our Bob the Builder was adorable! He really was cute!

This was Matthew before we left the house LOL! I told him Soldiers were serious and didn't smile......so this was him trying to have his serious face! hee hee hee. I think he looked bored! And probably tired of pictures, but he'll thank me someday :-)

We drive by this fire truck every time we go into Fuquay (it has a cool American flag in the front...wish I'd taken a picture), and everytime Zachary hollers "fire truck, fire truck"......we'll ask and you shall receive. The firemen let him in the truck.....he was scared at first, but then it was cool!

This was out at the Depot Square in Angier, the town including the Fire Department, Police Department, library and local business give out candy as a safe for kids trick or treat! Notice the cute little Bob the Builder costume.....thanks to my sister Maureen for making the awsome shirt (that she hand stamped because we couldn't find one), and hard hat with tool belt (tools included), and the great uniform for Matthew. He actually wears this pretty regularly!

These are my three musketeers: Nolan, Matthew, and Matt! They have been buds for a while now since they were all on the same basket ball team, and funny they all showed up at the same time - ha.....go figure. They had such a blast hanging out........as they usually do.

What I've been up too!

2007-10-17T12:19:00.000-04:00

My dear sister will not quit bugging me to update and post, and I have been very busy with some wonderful things happening in my life right now........I will go into that soon :-) But here are some of the projects that I have been making for the craft festivals and cards I have been demonstrating at shows. Enjoy!

The candles were actually so much easier than I thought they would be, and make sure wonderful gifts too. This will be one of the projects I will be doing at the Quick Christmas Gift in the begining of December, so watch for the email. You can RSVP now too if you would like :-) Just email me!

This is my Witching You.......I love the simplicity of this card and I only used our basic black ink pad, one stamp set and a punch. So much fun!!!!!!!!

This was so easy and so much fun...I used the designer series paper to do all the work. By the way..........keep an eye for that paper sale coming next month. You can make these too :P I am actually going to use this exact card for my Thanksgiving Invitations this year......who wants to come.........Yum FOOD!

And yes I always say my favorite, but what stamper would have just one favorite????? hello......that's why we are stampers right! LOL This is from our Merry and Bright set and I just absolutely do love it! It's great for cards, gift tags, and scrapbooks. Too easy!

Well have fun and keep watching for the next post!

Here they are! And Christmas is coming.....

2007-10-12T13:35:00.000-04:00

Hello hello hello! I have missed you all so much! It has been one thing after another, but I guess it always is right! LOL Zachary was sick for a week with a fever.......then I got it......thought it was the same thing.......but I'm running 12 days now with a low grade. But it's dropping :) Here is what I've been up to! I know I said no more craft fairs..........but, I am making some wonderful contacts through these events! So I have been working on some different cards to sell! And getting ready for another one! hee hee hee!

Near and far follow his star! What a wonderful saying! I used Star Studded Season, from our Holiday Mini Collection.

These are from the Festive Favorites stamp set. I love this set. It has snowmen, and Christmas trees and reindeer all on one stamp and you can use them together or all three seperately too, and they come with coordinating tags. Too cute!

And who couldn't love Frosty! He's just too.......I guess perfect. I love this little guy. And using this whole window technique was just too much fun! Really opens the doors to some awsome ideas!

And who wouldn't love a simple kind word......Joy! Snow does make me think of joy, or should I say be joyful. Think of how giddy you feel when you see it start to snow, and how pretty the snowflakes are..........I think I just miss the weather up north LOL!

But this is what I've been up too.........so now I chanllenge you! What will you do for Christmas? Some of these cards will be included on my Christmas card classes as well so call me details!

All About Us!

2007-09-21T12:02:00.000-04:00

I have to show you all that we really do clean up well occasionally LOL! This is from the beginning of September we went to a friends wedding. We had a blast but quickly realized we should have left little monster boy with a sitter! hee hee hee But they are just too cute not to show off! And Zachary is looking so much more like his Daddy these days. Everyday as I am watching him grow he is changing. Both of their little personalities are developing! They are so funny!

Okay, so this has nothing to do with stamping. LOL I will post some pics in a few days. My dear sweet friend Rita has given us a camera since ours was stolen. So now we can take pics again! Thanks bunches Rita! So here we are. All cleaned up LOL!

Darby's Blackbelt Day!!!!

2007-09-14T09:56:00.000-04:00

You Go Girl! You Make Me Proud!

This is a case off of my sisters website, but I am so very proud of my niece. She absolutely loves Tae Kwan Do, and she is doing a wonderful job! I am so very very proud of her. She does this weekly with the entire family. They all participate, and she is the first to get her black belt.

So if I have any problems.......I'll just call my little black belt to beat them up LOL! If you go to my sisters blog, M.A. Family you can see more pictures of her testing day. Just to see her so focused and strategic. She is my little all star! There couldn't be a more proud moment for my little girl (yes, she's my sisters daughter, but I don't have one of my own so I claim her)

Still Puttin Along

2007-09-13T09:40:00.000-04:00

Hi guys! Sorry I haven't blogged in few days. Zach has been off on convention for work this week, and it has been insane.........remind me why I am still sane! (Yes, Maureen and Steph, I am still considered sane) I would post pictures, but one of the lovely people in Las Vegas with my husband has decided that they needed our digital camera more then we did. So long to all of our lovely pics from the summer :-) Yes, this is only reading politely. I was lit up yesterday when I found out. I actually wished the whole book of Job on the person who has it, and I am not kidding! But.........between my dear mother in law and my Rita bud.......spending much time calming me yesterday.........I am done screaming. But it will be awhile until I can post pics again.......sorry!

Rita and I are doing the Lillington Craft festival this weekend, so if you are with nothing to do this weekend, come support us from 9-4. We'll be there :-) You can get some really good ideas, and see all the hard work we have been putting into this! Well, I don't know if I can really say hard.......but it was work! Also, don't forget Crop for the Cure is coming up on the 29th. It is not too late to come, let me know and I will put you intouch with Rita!

Tonight Stacy and I have soccer practice. We have decided to coach the team this year......as if we needed anything else to take on right! I don't know if you should feel sorry for the kids, or for us..............I'll let ya know! LOL.......What would there be to do with out a packed schedule and trying to figure out if you're coming or going LOL!

Well .......as soon as I can I will post some more pics! Have a great day.

Babies Babies Everywhere!

2007-09-05T22:02:00.001-04:00

I have recently found out that several of my friends are expecting, which inspired this card! I'll keep you all in mind when I send the cards :P But I created it with both little baby girls and boys in mind! It was done both in bashful blue and pretty in pink! And they both just came out awesome. I love the aqua painters hee hee hee! It has really inspired me to take my water coloring to a new level. So........I know I've been promising the Christmas pics.....but not quite yet! Have a great day!

And that sweet little puppy of ours is now 6 lbs, and not so tired anymore in the middle of the night. I feel like I just had a baby myself again. I think we got more sleep with Zachary, and this morning I found myself trying to read the whining........was she just mad.....or did she need to go out. Last night I finally asked Zach why we did this again LOL! We rock, paper, scissored in bed who would get up with her......and I'm not kidding!

Our New Addition!

2007-09-03T13:04:00.000-04:00

As everyone knows our dear dog Georgia died about two weeks ago. The house was feeling a lot empty as we all missed her. On our way home yesterday from church, we seen a little boy holding a sign "Puppies, free to a good home" I quickly told Zach no........and he said, they are labs.......I said we'll pray about it.....if there are any left after church, we'll stop and see. Well, we prayed, we left church, we walked up to the house, and who was there.......As a new addition to our family, I give you Libby! She is such a sweet little puppy! She is seven weeks old, and is a lab chow mix. She is very very playful. Matthew is just adoring her. He is even taking all the care of her (at least trying to :-) So here she is.....our new little one!

She had so much fun (not) being bathed to death! We bathed her six times yesterday to get the fleas off her. Poor little puppy was so tired after that......she had no problem sleeping right through her first night with her new family! We are so very proud of her :P She's even doing really well potty training. I almost have her house broke........wish Zachary would house break that easy LOL! So I will keep you all posted on her growing bigger the next few months!

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas!!!!!

2007-08-28T12:20:00.000-04:00

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas!!!!! Atleast around here! I am so excited....Some of my new stamp sets came in yesterday from SU, and OMG! I forgot they were die cut......so wonderfully easy to put together....and last night in about 10 minutes (about 5 of it ohing and ahing) I put together my two new sets and sat down and put together my ideas!

I am doing two shows in the next few weeks and I can't wait! My dear friend Rita and I are doing a craft show in the middle of September and crammed our ideas yesterday. And I am so extemely excited I almost can't contain myself......but come on winter and Christmas! Last night when I finally went to bed alittle after 11pm, I still could not go to sleep........ideas were just a swirling! So I think from this point on, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

As soon as I have these all done......I will post pictures! Hee hee hee. But I can't start working till after the kid-os go home tonight! LOL

Sisters & Friends!!!

2007-08-24T21:37:00.000-04:00

I am so excited! This weekend my sister is in town......again! This is the third time this month that I am getting to hang out with her and the family! We don't always get enough time to stamp so we are hoping to get to that this weekend! She already made a goofy orange and white ladybug (she says retro, I say she's weird) tonight before we went to Sunny Skies for gelato. That turned out to be a bad idea........but the ice cream was awesome as always. Some little kid a little older then Zachary walked right up to my nephew not once, but twice and kicked him in the shin....mean little kid, then Matthew fell on his head while they were playing tag. We decided it was time to go home. So now we play on the blog before we get the kid-os ready for bed.......then maybe we can get some stamping done since we have no bed time, and no where to be tomorrow :-) Sounds like my kind of day. Jenny would say this is the break I've been needing, and I say she is correct :P So have a great weekend, and I will try to post some pics if we actually make anything! LOL

Quick Birthdays!

2007-08-21T12:58:00.000-04:00

For those of us that have kids, and work and anything else going on in our life know that we sometimes must fly by the seat of our pants. Last week I had to go to a birthday party that was sort of last minute on our part (my fault). I had my day overbooked as I almost always do (this is why Jenny keeps telling me to take a vacation) :P Anyway I literally had less then 5 minutes from the time I walked in the door before we had to walk out. ***We had to come home to pick up the gift**** That I didn't have wrapped.....Thank God for SU Wheels. I literally was able to get back out the door in the time I had allowed us not to be late.....and even had a second to potty ;) This is the bag I made! Christmas will be easy this year....hee hee hee haa haa haa hoo hoo hoo! And yes, I did take a second to take the snapshot too, and was still not late LOL!

Fall Card Class!

2007-08-18T21:55:00.001-04:00

I had my fall card class today! We had such a good time. These are the cards we created. Lots of good techniques, and beautiful earth elements......they are my favorites of all the color families.

Simple easy and elegant! I love how the dazzling diamonds just add that extra wow! Give it a ribbon and you have an awsome card.

Earth elements go well with the new In-Color too! The go well with all of the colors anyway, but I just love how this one turned out!
Simply Said, it's elegant! So easy and basic to put together!
The always favorite....loads of love! So very - loads of fun :P
All Through the Year this set is awsome.....always an occasion that these can be used!

Say Cheese!

2007-08-17T19:44:00.000-04:00

We have found the secret to getting little ones to eat! Who knew it was so easy. We've been fighting the whole meat thing with Zachary since day one. But this little man loves to smile! So tonight my genius husband says to Zachary.....smile....let me see your teeth......oh, let me see your tongue, he'd open up his little mouth and Zach would pop the chicken in. And he'd laugh and realize we got him. We'd give him a high five, and two seconds later start all over again. So for all of those frustrated parents out there battling the meat battle with us........there is a method that works! Make it a game and dinner is much easier! LOL This is not of dinner tonight......but it is of him eating at Matthews B-day!

Buttons and Brads and Eyelets Oh My!!!!

2007-08-17T14:59:00.000-04:00

I sure do love our accessories! They really do just add that extra touch to the already perfect cards and projects we make. And so many times we focus on the girly girl! Well this one is totally boy......and I love this set, Ahoy Matey! This is the set I used to make Matthews birthday card too. I borrowed it from Rita......and absolutely fell in love with it. So, I'm sure that it will join the collection soon. The Ahoy Matey set, and a few of the new rhinestone brads, use your earthtones and you are set! Let me know what you need to order and I'll help ya gladly!

Enjoy this sample, I have to go and prepare more for my class this weekend. Yes......24 hours to go......time to start prepping LOL! You all know that is when I do my best work hee hee hee! I have a few spots left for Tuesday day and night, so if you haven't signed up yet.....give me a holler, I still have time to cut :P

Bugs and Flowers!

2007-08-16T12:12:00.000-04:00

I have promised and promised and promised to soon put pics here, well here are the ones you really want to see. Not my child with his twin at McD's. hee hee hee....yes, I just called Matthew a monkey LOL. This idea is not my own, and none of them usually are anyway. We have a coach that has once told us there are only two original ideas and the rest are cased. So my thought! Work smarter, not harder.......case away....but always add in your own touch and make it yours :P And I will when I put this card together myself later. But I love the idea and it is so simple. When you use just a few colors, it makes everything come together so perfect. We know how overwhelming all of our color choices can be, so pick one or two you want to use, and then boom.....a few circles, a few stamps, a few eyelets, and a wonderful card. If you want to recreate this let me know and I will get you the list of what you need. When create these ideas yourself, let me see what you are doing, and if you want them posted here or on the website let me know. The more ideas we have to go off of, more sparking we have for our own creativity. Yes.......what I am saying is I want to case your ideas too LOL :P~ Have a great day!

Views of the Week

2007-08-15T23:02:00.000-04:00

Hi guys! I will truly be glad when this month is over!!!!!!!!! For those of you I haven't had a chance to talk to. It has been a lousy couple of weeks. The AC quit....had a freon leak..........which dog decided to drink. I don't think I need to explain that dogs should not drink freon. The same day I realized I had to pay $250 to fix our AC unit, she died. This ofcourse had to happen two days before Matthews b-day, then I had to tell him just hours before. Then the begining of this week spent the first two days in court to help defend the kids I babysit for. It has been rough! That's the crazy of my last two weeks.

On a good note! Not that I don't think the above was of God somehow, it's just hard to find the good in that ya know! We do get to keep the kids. The court found favor with their Dad who I work for, I have two more kid-os that I will be keeping for a total of 4 come the end of August, so today so I could car pool them from school....Zach took me to buy a van...it's done. I am the official soccer mom now LOL. We got a Dodge Grand Caravan Sport. Which also means Zach got a new car too. He gets my Camry since we traded his in hee hee hee. It's win win for all of us.

I am going to go to bed, but tomorrow I will post a really cool sample of a card I found today. Just didn't seem right with this post. Talk to you all soon.

A Crazy Last Week!!!!!

2007-08-12T17:55:00.000-04:00

Will you ever forgive me......it was a crazy and exhausting week last week, and before that.....well just crazy.

Matthew had his 8th birthday yesterday, and what a wonderful day it was for him. He had two different parties (lucky little turkey) and we had a great time visiting with friends and family. Here is the cutest little picture of him at his McDonalds party LOL!

Lazy Turns Crazy!

2007-07-22T13:16:00.000-04:00

I thought summers were supposed to be lazy LOL! Well mine sure has been crazy, but I guess that is a very good thing or I'd be complaining about being bored........please define that if anyone knows.

SU has been extra busy and I am so excited about that. Jenny and I are going to Creedmoor here in a little while to do a party and I am excited! This is her first with people she doesn't know so I will be there to catch her if she falls :) What are frineds (and uplines) for????

Have a class scheduled for Tuesday, but only two people are coming :( I guess because it is summer it's just a little busy for everyone. This was supposed to be my challenge class....I'm taking on scrap booking.....not very good at it, but I took it on for that very reason! So I've come up with some cute ideas, now we'll see how they turn out!!!!

Steph, I promise this week I will put the picture program on the new computer, and start posting pics as well. I know how devistating it can be to have to read with out pictures LOL! Whatever would our kiddies do?

Okay, just wanted to check in. I am really going to hide away in Rita's luggage. My Rita demonstrator is going to Denver for convention. I want to go :( I will be there next year! I'm sure she will be bringing back some great new ideas for us to case too :P Can't wait!

A Day in the Life!!!!

2007-07-18T20:57:00.000-04:00

Today, I got to spend some time with two really cool friends (who are also SU demonstrators). I have to say, it really is uplifting to talk about what we do and lean on one another for support and ideas. It helps refresh the soul when you are out of ideas or even low on encouragement. Today I was taught, and in return got to teach. That is what growing is I guess. I am so excited about where I am going with my business. Everyday I am watching it grow, and that makes me proud.

I spent the afternoon at the pool with the little ones, and besides Matthew being a natural born fish, Zachary has learned to have NO Fear jumping off the side. Scares me to death. Praise God for baby life suits. Now he floats LOL!

In the next few days I will try to start posting some pics. I have been working on some new samples with the new sets and am having fun figuring out what works and what doesn't. I am really really loving the in color. I need to start pulling away from them some so I don't neglect the other color families :-) It's becoming very easy. LOL By the way, notice the side bar colors - looks alot like wild wasabi and blue bayou ;-P

Open House Day!

2007-07-15T12:53:00.000-04:00

Today I have my first open house with the new catalog and as I am very excited. I haven't started posting pictures yet.......but I will. The make and take I put together last night I cased from another website, then added a few of my own ideas. I was told once there are only 2 original ideas and everything else is copied. That makes sense. You can't reinvent the wheel! But the card came out really cool. I really really really love the new incolor this year. I feel sorry for the other four sets of colors......because I am having to make myself use them. They could very easily be neglected this year LOL! Well, if you read this and you didn't plan on coming out today, reconsider!

My Very First Blog!

2007-07-13T22:54:00.000-04:00

Tonight I had a wonderful group of ladies here for a home party and realized that the entire world blogs and everyone is on myspace. How funny! I really am getting old! So...as soon as I figure out all the ins and outs of this, I'll start posting cards and stamps and lots of fun stuff :-) You guys are always welcome to check out my website too at http://caroladoyle.stampinup.net