Creative Journey

Getting Embossing at Flutter By Wednesday

2012-01-25T02:00:00.000-06:00

This week we have a fun challenge for you! It's time to do a little embossing (any kind). Remember to include a butterfly, fairy or angel in your NEW creation!

I decided to do a card with hardly any stamping. I was inspired at Michael's in their Valentine section by the paint I saw - that's where my color combo comes from. It's such a bright happy card - perfect to send in February!

I found another card on Pinterest and knew I wanted to try it out for Flutter By Wednesday. You can see the original creation HERE.

I hope you'll join us at FBW - visit the blog for all the details. Thanks for stopping by!

It's Wryn - Wrapping You with My Love!

2012-01-20T02:00:00.000-06:00

So Tiddly Inks came out with some CA-ute new digital images known as Wryn. They are super cute! This one is my favorite, Wryn - New wings. You will definitely see more Wryn in the future!!

One of my goals this year was to participate in Jen's Sketch for you to try. I always "save" them and use but never on time. Well not anymore! I used the January sketch

for my card and must say it worked out perfectly! The sentiment is included with the digital stamp. I just love the saying - it's too sweet!

Thanks so much for stopping by! Hope you have a great weekend!! I'm hoping to get some crafting time in - whatever you have planned I hope it's a fun one!

Love You - Valentine Bear

2012-01-19T02:00:00.001-06:00

I'm back with another wonderful image from Mabelle. This little cutie is called Valentine Bear and you can find it here.

I used Sketches by Carly #47 for my layout. I ended up making the card 6x6 which is quite large for me but really like how it turned out.

I used My Mind's Eye Love Me Pattern paper from their 6x6 pad. To see some wonderful cards using Mabelle's fabulous digital & rubber stamp images then visit the Whimsy and Stars Studio Blog. She has lots of images perfect for your Valentine creations!

Thanks for stopping by!

FBW #186 - Birthday Blessings

2012-01-18T02:00:00.000-06:00

WOW there were some fantastic creations last week in our bright challenge. Thanks for playing along. This week it's an OPEN challenge - ANYTHING GOES AS LONG AS YOU INCLUDE A BUTTERFLY, FAIRY or ANGEL.

I saw the Mojo Monday sketch (here) and this card from Denise (here) so I decided to base my card on them. I used the new Echo Park Yours Truly Paper pad for my card.

Love double sided paper and 6x6 pads - they make coordinating super simple! I finished off the card my continuing the theme on the inside too.

Visit the Flutter By Wednesday blog to enter your creation. Need some inspiration, be sure to visit the other DT's blogs...I always look forward to seeing what they come up with. Such a fabulous team!

Thanks for stopping by!

Valentine Girly

2012-01-13T02:00:00.000-06:00

Well it's been awhile since I've shared one of Mabelle's wonderful digi's. I'm getting back in the swing of things and right now it's all about Valentine's & Friendship. You can find many beautiful digital image in the Whimsy & Stars Studio Etsy Shop. I used Valentine Girly for my card.

Did you know that Doodlebug FINALLY came out with 6x6 pads? They are so cute...now I can get fabulous 12x12 and 6x6 papers from one of my FAVORITE manufacturers. Oh how that makes me happy!

I went ahead and did a little decorating on the inside. Not that big of a deal but last year I made all card fronts so this year I'm trying to make FULL cards so I can send them out more. I mean I think I've "collected" enough - time to send and spread some smiles!

For many of us, the weather is cold and it's the perfect time to stay in and do a little creating. Or maybe a little coloring? So grab some coffee, head on over to the Whimsy & Stars Studio Etsy Shop and pick up a few cuties to create with this weekend!

Thanks for stopping by!

FBW #185 - BRIGHT Colors

2012-01-11T02:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday to you! I'm back with a card for Flutter By Wednesday. We have a fun challenge...it's time to get rid of the winter blues by using BRIGHT COLORS - along with a butterfly, fairy or angel.

I must say here in Kansas we haven't seen much of the Winter weather yet. I mean the temperatures have been in the 50's and we still haven't seen any snow! I'm sure now since I've said that we'll get some, lol!

For my card I totally CASED it...I have been trying to organize my room and start fresh. So I was focusing my "extra" time (what little it is) to that. Therefore, I wanted something quick and pretty so I turned to Pinterest. Yes, I'm an avid Pinner...totally LOVE it! Want to follow me or see my boards...go here.

The card I pinned was this:

Photo Credit

So using my supplies I came up with this card:

I just got a new die to make that awesome flower...plus my sister and mom got me a ton of wool felt so I had to use it!! Totally LOVE this card and I know that it will definitely cheer someone up!

I hope you will join us and play along. Grab those bright colors and a fairy, butterfly or angel and show us your creation! You can find all the details on the Flutter By Wednesday blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

I'm Back & It's Flutter By Time!!!

2012-01-04T02:00:00.001-06:00

I know it's been a while - so much happening. Holidays were good. I've been sick and am going in on Friday for more testing. I had hoped to get more accomplished but oh well...in due time! I'm looking forward to 2012. Are you? I'm working on determining what my "goals" are and what my "plans" are to accomplish them. I know getting healthy is at the top of the list!

I'm so happy to be fluttering again. Have you missed Flutter By Wednesday's? We are back and have some FUN in store for you!! We welcome FOUR new members today - Karen, Lynette, Leanne and Suzanne. So to start 2012 off with style and welcome in our new members we are having a blog hop! If you are just joining us then go back to the FBW blog to start from the beginning. If you are arriving from Nancy's blog welcome, you are on the right track!

Our sponsor this week is BUGABOO... they have the cutest digi's. You should check them out! The challenge this week is an OPEN one...anything goes as long as you use a butterfly, fairy or angel on it. PLUS visit the FBW blog to see how you can play along and win some fabulous digi's from BUGABOO.

I used the digi AVA FLOWER PATCH. Isn't she cute?! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her!!

I used some new papers from We R Memory Keepers called Cotton Tails. The sentiment is from PTI Tiny Tags stamp set & die. Diggin' how this turned out...totally could be because I haven't created anything in MONTHS though :D

Your next stop on the blog hop is Danni. If you get lost along the way just follow the hop here:

FBW Blog http://flutterbywednesdays.blogspot.com/

Michelle VP http://mybearybest.blogspot.com/

Karen http://creationsbykw.blogspot.com/

Suzanne http://sparklingscrapper.blogspot.com/

Lynette http://mystampingaddiction.blogspot.com/

Amanda http://cardscatsandcopics.blogspot.com/

Leanne http://liloshaggymoto.blogspot.com/

Kristie http://kreativekristie.blogspot.com/

Mary http://maryjdesigns.blogspot.com/

Nancy http://southernyankeecrafter.blogspot.com/

Michelle (ME) http://michellescreativejourney.blogspot.com/

Danni http://dannisdreamscrafts.blogspot.com/

Harriet http://allycatcards.blogspot.com/

Anna http://scrapandcrap.blogspot.com/

One last thing - thank you to everyone that joined us in December. The FBW team took some time off and I have to say it was just what I needed. I'm ready to get back into things though as I hope you are too. Now's the perfect time to join us and you'll even have a chance to win some digi's. Remember just visit the FBW blog for all the details.

Thanks for stopping by!

FBW #183 - Last Challenge for 2011

2011-12-07T02:00:00.001-06:00

Can you believe this is the last challenge for 2011? I'm looking forward to what 2012 holds for the Flutter By Team! I'm looking forward to the break though as this is the time to spend time with family and friends. No worries, right?

Last week the FBW Team said goodbye to a few team members and this week we say goodbye to another one...We will miss Kelly, Jen and Peggy! I wish you luck and know that I will be stalking your blogs to see what you are up too!

For the last challenge we made it an easy one - It's an OPEN challenge. Anything goes as long as you include a butterfly, fairy or angel. You'll have all month to play along and you can enter as many times as you want. PLUS there might be a prize involved!

Last week, Mabelle released a new digital image, TWINKLING ANGEL. The image is adorable!! I totally needed another reason to make a Christmas card since I'm a little behind on those!

Plus I got to use some of those 6x6 paper pads that I've seemed to collect but not use! So whatcha think? You want TWINKLING ANGEL don't you? You can grab it HERE.

I hope you'll join us at FBW this month - visit the blog for all the details! And you can catch more inspiration from the FBW team!

Thanks for stopping by!

Fluttering a little late this week...

2011-11-30T08:10:00.003-06:00

I'm sorry to say that I will be a little late in sharing my FBW creation. Mommy duty has taken up a lot of time and I haven't been able to do much else.

The challenge this week is a recipe one - you need to have the following on your creation:

The color blue
lace
3 or more flowers
at least one butterfly

With everything else going on, my brain just couldn't completely wrap around the "recipe". Hopefully something will come to me so I can share it...

Visit the FBW blog to see some wonderful inspiration and to play along!

On a side note, I really thought that sleeping would be easier with an 8 yr old. However, Abby hasn't slept through the night in the last week or so. There have been some changes that may contribute but for the most part she is scared of her own house. We've lived here over 3 years and she acts as though it was just yesterday. I don't know how to get her to understand she is safe and that we (her parents) will protect her. It's a struggle and I'm in need of ANY suggestions on how to help her. It started that she was afraid of going down the hall to the bathroom by herself and now it's affecting her sleep. It's usually around 3am and lasts all morning. I thought it was a phase but it's lasting a LOT longer than I would expect.

Gratitude Blog Hop!

2011-11-28T21:30:00.002-06:00

So I was going to post this like um 4 days ago and TOTALLY forgot! Yes, my mind has been like that lately! So did you have a good Thanksgiving? I did!! We had wonderful food, great time with family, played some cards, went to see The Muppets and did LOTS of shopping! Yes, I was a part of the Black Friday sales - and it was odd being out shopping at 3 and 4 am! We got some good deals though but then my "schedule" was all mixed up for like 2 days!

Mabelle is having the first ever Gratitude Blog Hop over on the Whimsy and Stars Studio blog. I wanted to join in on the fun so I grabbed ACORN SQUIRREL and created this card.

I found this wonderful sketch (#44) over on Sketches by Carly blog. I thought it would show off the digital image and the fall paper. I colored the image with my Copics - I was trying to make the squirrel look like he has fluffy fur...still working on that technique.

Thanks for stopping by!

Flutter By Wednesday #181 Sponsored by Paper Pretties!!

2011-11-23T02:00:00.001-06:00

Hello and welcome! I'm so glad you've stopped by! Today begins our Thanksgiving break so Abby and I have some things planned - like crafts and baking :D I have to tell you I'm very excited...I have my family coming over to our house for Thanksgiving on Thursday and then we'll do a little shopping. Plus hoping to see the new Muppet movie as well. So LOTS of fun stuff planned!

This week at Flutter By Wednesday we are sponsored by Paper Pretties. The challenge is open so I decided to do something a little different. Abby is really into reading right now. The other day I noticed she had toilet paper for a bookmark - a little tacky if you ask me. So when I saw the digital image, Sophia Cuddle I knew what I had to do.

Abby's favorite color is blue but her lovey better known as Pink Boo is pink and well, a little worn. I thought that since she can't have Pink Boo with her all the time (like at school) she could have a bookmark that would remind her of her. When I showed Abby what I made well, lets just say she was a little speechless and oh so happy!

To show you just how important Pink Boo is to her I thought I'd include a few pics:

As you can see she's pretty special!

I hope you'll join us this week for our challenge. Remember to include a butterfly, fairy or angel on your creation! You can see all the details over on the FBW blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

Flutter By Wednesday #180

2011-11-16T02:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to another Flutter By Wednesday! This week we say hello to a new team member, Amanda! Plus we have the multi-talented, Jessica Diedrich as the guest designer. Woohoo more awesomeness to look at :D

I decided to use an angel this week as I need to get some more holiday cards done! The challenge is your favorite - OPEN...remember anything goes as long as you include a fairy, butterfly or angel on a NEW creation!

I grabbed one of Mabelle's wonderful digi's called Felicity and started coloring. I added some Crystal Stickles to her wings and the small stars. Isn't she just the sweetest?
I used some paper that I found at Hobby Lobby...plus when I went to check out I got it at 40% off since it was in the Christmas area and not the scrapbook area. SCORE for me!

Have you seen all the fabulous digi's and rubber stamps that are available over on the Whimsy and Stars Studio Shop? No? Well you better go see what cuteness you are missing!!

Danni has been suffering from a migraine (hope you are doing better, Danni!) so the post may be late on the FBW blog...but don't worry. It will be up (soon). I hope among all things going on you find some time to get a little inky. We'd love to have you join us!!

Thanks for stopping by!

Winter Friends

2011-11-11T02:00:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday! Popping in to share a new creation using the fabulous digital stamp from Mabelle RO, called WINTER FRIENDS. I had so much fun coloring this digi!!

Banners are all the rage right now, so I had to have a try at it...

to set off the banners I incorporated it into my greeting and I put Crystal Stickles around them. And the finished card...

total cute factor, right? Whatcha think? You can get WINTER FRIENDS for yourself on the Whimsy & Stars Studio shop right here.

Did you know that we are having a gratitude blog hop? You can see all the details on how to participate over on the blog. I hope you'll join in on the fun as well!

Big shout out to all the Veterans out there - thank you for all you've done for us!! I'm extremely grateful for each and everyone of you! I'm going to take a little break from the "normal" weekend duties to head to Manhattan to work at a craft show. It should be a lot of fun and I get to visit with some friends I haven't seen in quite a while. Hope your weekend is a good one! Thanks for stopping by!

Thought of You

2011-11-09T00:30:00.000-06:00

Hope your week is going good so far! Today I have a card to share for Flutter By Wednesday. The theme this week is FRIENDSHIP - remember you also need to include a butterfly, fairy or angel on it.

When I saw the new sketch for Mojo Monday (#214) I knew that I wanted to do something working with that sketch. It's AWESOME!! Here's what I came up with:

I couldn't stop with the front - had to keep it going on the inside too!

I just adore how this card turned out! And I know it will bring a smile to the recipients face as well....now which friend should I send it to? :D

Head on over to the Flutter By Wednesday blog for all the details for this weeks challenge. You can see more inspiration from the team by visiting their blogs. And this week, be sure to stop by Leanne's blog - she's our guest designer this week!!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have a great day - I'm going to try and stay warm and cross my fingers that the rain will let up. I need a little sunshine...

Thankful for YOU!

2011-11-02T02:00:00.001-05:00

I'm thankful for all my friends and family! I'm NOT thankful for computers as this is my second time writing this post! ARGHHHH....add in that I have a nasty cough/cold and well it sucks!

Oh well - on to my regular scheduled post, lol! This week at Flutter By Wednesday we are using the theme - friendship/gratitude along with a fairy, butterfly or angel.

I just received a few new rubber stamp sets in the mail from the fabulous Mabelle RO. On her Whimsy & Stars Studio she has some cute digital images and she now has some rubber stamp sets too! I'm using the one called FRIENDS.

Seems that anything I try to create lately is taking forever! I've been doing a lot of items for a few craft shows that I'm in so I guess my mind is on other things. Plus Abby has been keeping me busy but we are now done with soccer for a few weeks so that will be a nice break. Of course, we are in the midst of Girl Scout Cookie sales so we trade one thing for another, lol!

If you'd like to see the other rubber stamp sets or the digital images that are available from Mabelle RO, head on over to the Whimsy & Stars Studio site. Plus for a limited time you can get a FREE digi on the Facebook page. Not a fan? You can find details on how to join HERE.

Thanks for stopping by today!

Flutter By Wednesday #177 - A Color Challenge!

2011-10-26T02:00:00.000-05:00

This week at Flutter By Wednesday we have a color challenge for you to try! All you need to do is create a NEW card using the colors Black, Purple, Orange & Green (think Halloween) along with a butterfly, fairy or angel on it!

I'm sorry I don't have a card for you to share - I know the other DT members will have some fabulous creations though! You can check out their blogs on my sidebar. I've been under the weather and this week is a week that I'm ready to get over with! I'm so very overbooked (how does that happen?!). I have a child out of school a couple of days, parent teacher conferences, soccer practices, soccer tournament, Girl Scout Camp out (where the temperature is supposed to drop to 32 degrees!), Girl Scout Cookies start....okay, you get the picture. I think that's why I'm under the weather...I haven't been sleeping!

BUT the good news, so many things end for me on Monday and I'm definitely ready for the break. That way I can get back to coloring...it's always fun and relaxing! I'll be back soon...I promise :D

Flutter By Wednesday #176

2011-10-19T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today we have the favorite challenge of OPEN...yep, anything goes as long as you have a fairy, angel or butterfly on your NEW creation! Head on over to the FBW Blog for all the details.

I decided to give my stamping skills a break and reached for some paper and stickers instead. Can you say YUM-O? I mean who doesn't love Doodlebug...and that is some of their newest papers and embellishments. Oh how I love me some Doodlebug!

This week we have a guest designer, Amanda! Stop by her blog to see her fabulous creation...and don't forget about the wonderful Flutter By Team! They always amaze me with their wonderful talent!!

Thanks for stopping by!

Christmas Digi Release Over at Whimsy and Stars Studio!!

2011-10-18T02:00:00.000-05:00

Yippee - today is the day!! New Christmas Digi's over at the Whimsy and Stars Studio! PLUS there is a fabulous sale...buy 2 get 1 free!

Check out gingerbread boy...I added a few details with my white gel pen and then chalked the background. I love his little cheekies...just want to squeeze them!

I used the fabulous new Echo Park paper called Season's Greetings. When I was checking out sketches I found Card Patterns Sketch #137 and knew it would be PERFECT for my little gingerbread boy!

You can see more wonderful samples of the new Christmas digi's over on the Whimsy and Stars Studio blog. And don't forget to visit the Etsy store to get your new digi's! Your Christmas projects & cards will thank you :D

Thanks for stopping by!

Using Scraps for Flutter By Wednesday #175

2011-10-12T02:00:00.000-05:00

This week at Flutter By Wednesday we are using our scraps! How do you store scraps? I have a couple of methods, the first being my basket by my desk. Whenever I'm working on something the scraps go into this basket. When it gets full (or I get the energy), then I empty it. When I do that I sort by color into my bigger 12x12 Iris bins. Those bins are mostly used by my daughter or when I'm doing some die cutting.

I wanted to show you that because you might not think that my card was used with scraps but ALL of it came from my scrap basket :D My inspiration came from the newest PaperCrafts Magazine. Sorry but I'm too lazy to go find it right now to give the proper credit but it was made using fall colors and leaves and is beautiful!

I used some different stamp pads and ended up embossing the butterflies because I was to impatient to let it dry. Well that and I was running out of time, lol! I do have to say since I'm no longer with The Angel Company I am having fun using all the different products that I've had FOREVER. These ink pads are at least 8 years old - all I can say is thank goodness for re-inkers!

I hope you will join us at FBW this week! Head over to the blog for all the details and to link your NEW creation using SCRAPS and has a butterfly, fairy or angel on it. This week we have a guest designer joining us. Be sure to stop by Barbara's blog and say hello! Don't forget to stop by the other team members blogs...their links are in my sidebar!

Thanks for stopping by!

SMILE - it's a happy day!!

2011-10-11T02:00:00.001-05:00

Oh it's such a happy day - today is the day that Mabelle debuts her images in rubber!! Yes, folks 5 new stamp sets are available today through the Whimsy and Stars Studio Etsy Store!! I, for one, am very excited about this opportunity. Since The Angel Company closed it's doors, I wasn't sure what my friend, Mabelle was going to do. I mean I can get my fix with her AWESOME digital images but I love me some rubba too!

Speaking of digital images...

gotta love Ballerina Teddy! Isn't she cute?

Want Ballerina Teddy? You can find her HERE. While you are there check out the other wonderful digi's and the new rubber stamps!! Oh and don't forget...Christmas digi's will be coming soon!

Thanks for stopping by!

Upcoming Class

2011-10-07T02:00:00.001-05:00

As you know, The Angel Company closed their doors and I've been taking time trying to figure out what to do next. I'm happy to report that I was asked to teach some classes at my local scrapbook store. My first class is coming up on Sunday, October 16th from 2 to 4pm.

Here are the details from Scrapbooks Etc.'s newsletter:

Welcome Michelle to our teaching staff! She has lots of wonderful tips and tricks to share with you. In this class you will make 2 cards using the Pure Innocence stamps “Toad-ally Cool”. This cute little girl has a frog friend and is wearing overalls. You will learn how to shade and color with Copic markers. As a special bonus you receive the girl stamp, a $9.95 value as part of your class fee. A great deal!

I hope that you will be able to join me...here's a little peak at what we'll be doing.

The cost is just $17.50. Call the store at (785) 272-2012 to reserve your spot! I look forward to seeing you :D

Delicious Doodles for Flutter By Wednesday #174

2011-10-05T02:00:00.000-05:00

Hello to you! I can't believe it's been almost a week since I last posted. With the weather change and all the germs going around, I spent quite a few days last week ill. Thankfully I'm doing better but am nervous since there is a horrible stomach bug going around Abby's school. Keep your fingers crossed that it skips me!

This week we have a wonderful sponsor for Flutter By Wednesday, Delicious Doodles. They gave a few images to the team to use and I picked this awesome image, Floral Watering Can.

I'd love to have a colorful bouquet like this sitting on my porch! Isn't it pretty? You could win some free digi's from Delicious Doodles. Head on over to the FBW Blog for all the details! The challenge is OPEN - just remember your NEW creation must include butterflies, fairies or angels.

Thanks for stopping by!

Halloween Girl

2011-09-29T02:00:00.000-05:00

Quick share for you today using this cutie from Whimsy and Stars Studio called HALLOWEEN GIRL.

I love cute witches...keep hoping my Abby will want to be one for Halloween sometime. So far no luck. But at least I have this one I can color, lol! Love the saying too...I split it up and included the other portion on the inside.

Stop by the Whimsy & Stars Studio blog to see all the cute Halloween/Fall digi's. And stay tuned cause the Christmas Digi release will be coming soon...mark your calendars October 18th.

Thanks for stopping by!

It's the Last Week of our Birthday Celebration at FBW

2011-09-28T02:00:00.000-05:00

This is our last week of Danni's celebration month - and boy has it been fun! LOTS of giveaways and tons of awesome entries! Thank you to everyone for making this month so special!

I'm sorry that I don't have a card this week - I've been suffering from a migraine on and off for over a week and yesterday it really knocked me out. Had to even leave work. I'm taking medicine and hoping to be over this soon!

PLEASE stop over to the Flutter By Wednesday blog for all the details for this week. It's an OPEN challenge (anything goes as long as it's new and includes a butterfly, fairy or angel on it). We are giving away two prizes this week - one from Paper Makeup Stamps and one from The Greeting Farm.

I would love to say I'll have a card soon but I'm thinking that just isn't going to happen...Please visit the DT's blog for their wonderful creations and be sure to stop by Kelly's...she's joining us this week. Welcome Kelly!!

What I've Been Up To Lately...

2011-09-23T02:00:00.001-05:00

Okay I'm going to warn you this is a picture heavy post...and there may be some excessive chatter as well. I just feel that I've been kind of missing. I went through a VERY rough spot when The Angel Company closed their doors. It's been about a month and I'm finally feeling a little back to "normal" - as normal as I am anyway, lol!

I was really involved with TAC and when they announced they were closing it was a shock and well it hit me hard. I was disappointed/shocked/upset/unsure. I mean so many emotions! I was contacted by other companies and honestly my hubby and I talked (MANY NIGHTS) about what I should do. I felt as though I HAD to decide right then and hubby was like - why? Why - well aren't I supposed to do something now...I mean so many people are going to other companies so shouldn't I?

One thing about me joining TAC it wasn't a decision I just jumped into. I mean I've always been a crafter but selling product/teaching classes wasn't something I was familiar with. It wasn't until my hubby and I moved to Memphis and I worked at an AWESOME scrapbook store did my real creative side show. So two years after attending a few TAC parties I joined as a demonstrator. I realized that I don't want to just jump into something - especially if my heart isn't in it. And while there are AWESOME companies out there to work for none of them are currently speaking to me...I'm not feeling it in my heart, you know?

So back to the now - I'm been taking time and well trying things that I've wanted to but didn't have the time. First thing I did was rearrange/purge and reorganize my craft room. I took out an oversized craft desk that was being more of a catch all then anything and filled an entire wall with shelving and bookcases. LOVE it - it was what I need to start anew. Then I got busy creating a few scrapbook pages...

Sorry about the pics - obviously not sure how to take a good photo of my 12x12 pages (suggestions, anyone?) I tell you it felt so good to scrapbook again...I have so many awesome pictures and adorable stories that I want to tell/show so I will definitely be trying to do this more!

I'm a HUGE fan of Pinterest and have been finding so many wonderful projects I want to do. I found one to make finger puppets. I keep saying I want puppets for my preschool class so I made some...

I think they turned out so cute but they were time consuming and well I honestly can say I'm so glad I'm finally done with them! Here is a picture of all of them that I made.

Pretty cute huh? I think I got them from the Idea Room...but email me if you want specifics and I'll look them up.

Other than that I'm relaxing and being involved in PTO, Girl Scouts, Abby's Soccer and preschool. I'm taking it easy and watching some tv...so glad that my shows are back! Makes me happy!

Before I (finally!) go, when this all started I was supposed to create a card for FBW. I had the image colored but had not completed the card...well I got that done too...

See things are looking up :D I hope you have a wonderful weekend and thank you for stopping by!

Flutterby Wednesday #172

2011-09-21T02:00:00.000-05:00

Sorry I'm going to keep this short as I've been suffering from another migraine for a couple of days now - I'm off to take some medicine and get some rest.

We are still celebrating Danni's birthday all month long. Each week we are having an OPEN challenge (anything goes as long as it's NEW and has a butterfly, fair or angel on it). There are also giveaways...head on over to the FBW blog to see if you won!

This week our sponsor is Susana's Custom Art & Card Design - I got this new stamp set from her store...ordered it on a Friday and had it in my hand on Monday...QUICK service and I got a FREEBIE in my order as well. You've got to check out her store!

This cutie is from the Sylvia Zet called Loli and Shellie.

I used an Deconstructed Sketch #19 for my layout. Remember you can see what prize is up for grab this week and link your creation up on the FBW blog!

Thanks for stopping by!

Here Ya Go - My newest Mabelle RO Creation

2011-09-15T02:00:00.001-05:00

Well like I mentioned yesterday, I had created two cards but realized that this one didn't qualify for Flutter By Wednesday since there weren't any butterflies, fairies or angels on it. So I saved it to share today!

Recently Mabelle RO with Whimsy and Stars Studio, released a bunch of awesome Fall digital stamps. This adorable little bear is called SUNFLOWER TEDDY.

Isn't he the cutest?! Remember if you join us at FBW this week you will be entered for a chance to win YOUR CHOICE OF A FREE DIGI FROM WHIMSY AND STARS STUDIO. But I want to warn you - you won't be able to pick just one! They are all TOO CUTE!!

Thanks for stopping by!

Flutter By Wednesday #171 - Another Giveaway!

2011-09-14T00:45:00.000-05:00

We are still celebrating over on the Flutter By Wednesday blog! For the entire month of September we are going to have FUN, FUN, FUN - in honor of Danni's birthday!

So this week we have not one but TWO fabulous giveaways - Tiddly Inks & Whimsy and Stars Studio. I had EVER intention of having TWO cards BUT I forgot my butterflies so you'll see that one tomorrow :D

The challenge is EASY - you just need to create a NEW card and remember you must include a BUTTERFLY, FAIRY or ANGEL on it! My creation today uses a fabulous digi from Tiddly Inks called Happy Couple.

I used the newest sketch from The Sweet Stop for my card (SSS125). It was PERFECT! I know I've said it before but I LOVE their sketches...so many layers and oh so fun!

Come back tomorrow to see my Whimsy and Stars Studio card. Oh and I want to give a shout out to AMY YOUNG - she's joining us as a guest DT. She's super talented so be sure to head on over to her blog to see her beautiful creation! I hope you'll join in the fun - so many goodies to be won :D

Thanks for stopping by!!

Birthday Girl & Other Creations

2011-09-08T02:00:00.003-05:00

I have no idea where the time has gone but I already have an 8 year old at home! This week was Abby's birthday and we celebrated with 12 of her awesome friends at the bowling alley.

She had a great time and got lots of new goodies to play with.

I like to do other things besides making cards so I thought I'd show you some things I made for Abby's party. First up is a cake I made...now I'm not an expert by any means but I have to say I do a pretty good job. I mean I only make one a year - for Abby usually.

Next we made treat bags for the guests. I wanted to make bags that represented bowling bags...couldn't really find what I wanted but decided these would work.

I used my Cricut for almost everything. The gift boxes and hearts are made using the Tags, Bags, Boxes & More Cartridge. I used Doodlebug Type for the initials and bowling balls. I just cut circles and then punched holes in them.

On the back we printed a little thank you and then Abby signed them all. Abby really liked everything and she kept telling me thank you. My heart really swelled when I heard her telling her friends how her mommy made them. It makes it all worth it - these are the things I hope Abby remembers. Plus the extra time I got to spend with her was an added bonus. She seems to be wanting to spend a lot of her free time with friends so any time I can get with her I try and take!

Flutter BY Wednesday #170

2011-09-07T02:00:00.000-05:00

Some of you may remember that Danni's birthday is in September so we at Flutter By Wednesday like to celebrate all month long! That means your favorite challenge each week plus giveaways!! First up we have Sparkle Creations - I was given Scooter Chloe to use and you could win her!

All you have to do is create a NEW card and make sure there is a butterfly, fairy or angel on it and link it up on the Flutter By Wednesday Blog.

Chloe is so cute! She's fun to color too! I hope you'll join us!

Thanks for stopping by!

New Fall Release at Whimsy And Stars Studio!

2011-09-06T02:00:00.001-05:00

The time is finally here - the big release!! Brand New Digi's from Whimsy And Stars Studio!! Just wait till you see all the cuteness! I wanted to use Pumpkin Teddie to make a nice Fall card.

I'm always trying to do different things with the background. For this one I took my yellow Copic and flicked it out from the image. I then went over with my Colorless Blender to soften the lines some.

A friend of mine bought some paper and she thought that this pattern was ugly. I asked her if I could have a sheet of it as I thought it would make a cool Fall card. When I got my card done she decided that she liked the paper, lol! Good thing there were a couple sheets left :D

I used an old sketch from Viva La Verve sketch for the card - I like all the layers that it has. They have some cool sketches...I don't always get to try them right away but love to refer to them later!

Head on over to the Whimsy And Stars Studio to see all the new Fall digi's! While you are there pick up a few and get to creating some new Fall projects! I know we've had a great break in the weather and it's feeling like Fall - makes me so happy. Love having the windows open and the fresh air!

Thanks for stopping by!

Sneak Peek of New Fall Digi Release Coming From Whimsy & Stars Studio

2011-09-01T02:00:00.002-05:00

Lookie Lookie - a little sneaky peaky at the upcoming Fall release from Whimsy & Stars Studio which will be on Tuesday, September 6th! I can't wait to see all the fabulous creations from Mabelle!I used Pumpkin Girl with Banner for my card and some yummy new Doodlebug paper - have I told you how much I {heart} Doodlebug? I just wish they'd come out with paper pads too. I have such a hard time using their paper as it's so cute...it's one of the few companies where I actually buy two of each pattern! For my layout, I used the newest sketch (SSS123) over at The Sweet Stop. They always have such awesome sketches!

Also, today we have a new team at Whimsy & Stars Studio - welcome everyone...new and old :D It's going to be a fabulous term and I am so grateful to be a part of this group! Of course, thanks to Mabelle for the opportunity and for creating such cute images. I LOVE them all!! Don't you?

Mark your calendars...

Thanks for stopping by!

FBW #169 - CELEBRATE

2011-08-31T02:00:00.003-05:00

At Flutter By Wednesday this week we are CELEBRATING! Just create a NEW card using a butterfly, fairy or angel on it with a CELEBRATION theme to play along.

Well I haven't done too much creating lately or celebrating. A few weeks ago, I got together with some friends to crop a little. I spent my time working on this card and coloring some images. The only thing left to do was put a sentiment on my flag. Figured it would make a great birthday card, so went with it.

This week we have a new member of our team - please help in welcoming Mary J to the FBW team! You can see her fabulous work on her blog. I hope you'll play along with us this week - head over to the FBW blog for all the details!

On a side note, it's getting better for me. I spent all weekend redoing by studio and purging stuff. I found a lot of stuff I forgot I had - and a lot of stuff I want to do. Especially scrapbooking...so many pictures and stories that I need to document. Right now, I decided that I'm not going to join any other companies. I need to take some time and heal. I want to create just to create. This week I started back at the Preschool and I meet my new class next week. I'm busy preparing my room, lesson plans and art projects. This year I'm also doing another class besides my 2 1/2 yr olds. It will be fun because it's the PreK room and a couple of my kiddos are from my first year of teaching. Anyway, I will get back to posting regularly and creating so just bear with me please. Thanks for stopping by!

FBW #168 & Some Sad News

2011-08-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

First up is Flutter By Wednesday - today is an OPEN challenge which means ANYTHING goes as long as you create a NEW creation using a Butterfly, Fairy or Angel. I want to thank Victoria Case as she designed this wonderful digi and gave it to the DT to use...isn't it beautiful?! So So pretty! LOVED coloring it in. Unfortunately, that's all I got done...

Over the weekend I took some time and colored 4 different images for upcoming DT assignments, finished a swap and worked on a TAC Dream Team project. Well that's all I got done as I learned that The Angel Company was hanging up their wings...WHAT? you say! Yep, after 14 years we now have to say goodbye to TAC. To say that I'm doing good is a lie. I'm in totally shock and am unsure what and where to go from here. For the last 5+ years, TAC has been a HUGE part of my life. This last year I was accepted to the Dream Team and was doing more TAC business then ever! I've developed wonderful friendships through other Angels and customers. I am so sad to see it end but I know that this was not an easy decision for Mischelle. My heart goes out to her and her family as they go through this transition.

For me, well it's VERY hard to create...when I step into my room it's full of all things TAC. I'm sad and am taking time to work through the shock and grief. I don't know that joining another company is for me...I have lots to work through and after many headaches I've decided to just let things be for right now. No thinking about the future and what's next. I hope my customers will give me some time and realize that I can't rush into anything as I want to make the RIGHT decision for me.

I do hope to finish up the images that I colored into cards and to post those but as I said before it's so hard...I know there is so much going on in the world and this may seem so small to you but it's such a BIG part of my world...please pray for me. Help me decide what to do and to find the energy and creativeness to go on...my mojo has truly suffered!

Baby's Teddy & Back to School Pics

2011-08-18T02:00:00.002-05:00

I colored up this cutie a little while ago and finally had the opportunity to make a card. I'm digging the whole "boy" thing...I seem to do such girly cards that it's fun to change it up a bit.

I used the digital image by Mabelle called Baby's Teddy. You can find it at the Whimsy & Stars Studio HERE. I kept the card pretty simple as I wanted the image to take center stage. LOVING how I colored the teddy bear....it's so fluffy!

Abby went back to school yesterday and I'm happy to report that it went REALLY well. She is LOVING her teacher and is excited about school. This is a HUGE relief and I PRAY that it continues! Here's a few pictures of her I took while waiting for the bus to arrive.

I took many photos and she started doing poses. This is one of my favorites and it shows her true smile...

Thanks for stopping by!

Blessed By Your Friendship

2011-08-17T02:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday to you! Today is a special day as school starts back up today! I can't believe the summer is over...man, it went fast! Abby's excited to start back so here's hoping that this year goes a little smoother than last.

Time for another Flutter By Wednesday! This week our challenge is to create a NEW creation using a butterfly, fairy or angel and include punches or die cuts! Easy enough, right?

For my card I used the cute digi by Wee Stamps called Suzi with Bunny. The fabulous sketch comes from The Sweet Stop this week. It was PERFECT for what I visioned I wanted to do. The butterfly is from my Martha Stewart punch. I backed it with the yellow paper and trimmed. Then I covered it with my Smooch Pearlized Top Coat. It has a nice shimmer to it! The sentiment is from a new set called Grace & Peace from The Angel Company.

So whatcha think? I hope you join us this week at Flutter By Wednesday - just head on over to the blog for all the details! Thanks for stopping by!

Tune in Tuesday on the Savvy Projects Blog

2011-08-16T02:00:00.001-05:00

Today I'm the designer over on the Savvy Projects Blog. Go check out the meaning behind this card as well as the tutorial to make it!

Another FABULOUS Blog Hop featuring FABRIC

2011-08-12T17:00:00.000-05:00

Today over on the Savvy Projects Blog we are doing a technique blog hop - Stamping on Fabric

I have to admit this is something I've always looked at doing but have not actually tried. I know you can stamp on T-Shirts and such but I didn't work up the nerve to try that yet. I will though especially since I already bought the supplies, lol!

I went to the Fabric store and started looking around...I finally decided on some burlap and muslin swatches and headed home. All I could think was "fall" - you know hay rack rides, pumpkins, changing leaves. So I set off to create something with that in mind.

I stamped THANKING GOD a Level B Hostess set onto the muslin with my Memento Ink. I read online that you should heat set it but I'm thinking that is if you are going to wash it. I just let it set for a few and then I colored the image with my Copics. Go slow and don't go all the way to the outline of the stamp (yes, I'm speaking from experience here)...TRUST ME. Once I finished coloring I let it set for awhile and then applied some chalk all around it.

Card Details:

Stamps: Script Background, Background Soup and Thanking God all from The Angel Company

Papers: Miss Moxie Cardstock Collection and Kraft

Others: Muslin and Burlap fabric, Copics, Chalks, Button, Burnt Umber Palette Ink and Memento Tuxedo Black Ink

I'm pleased with the results but definitely want to play more! I'm hoping to find time this weekend! I hope you will join us - just look at all the fabulous creations so far!

It's Flutter Time!

2011-08-10T01:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another Flutter By Wednesday! This week we are being sponsored by Paper Pretties....which means there is a PRIZE up for grabs!! We were given some digital images to use and I decided to use Pixie Jena on my creation.

The challenge this week is your favorite - OPEN!! Anything goes as long as it's a NEW creation that includes a butterfly, fairy or angel on it! Head on over to the Flutter By Wednesday blog for all the details!! I hope to see YOUR creation!

Thanks for stopping by!

August Card Kit is Available NOW!!

2011-08-05T14:00:00.001-05:00

The August Card Kit is available for ordering! You get TONS of awesome product, pictures and instructions. Have you wanted to try your hand at the ruffle ribbon technique? How about making your own felt flower? Well you will with this kit! I provide everything you need to complete these cards and more! Just look at all the things you get!

What a great deal! Contact me today to get yours!!

Back To School...REALLY?!?!?!

2011-08-05T00:00:00.001-05:00

Can you believe it's back to school time - already! Man, where has the time gone? I'm trying to be a little ahead of the game and get projects done early...because as you know when Abby goes back to school well then I have to go back as well! Another adjustment period to another new routine! Yikes!!

So I was in the mood to do some back to school gifties. I know how exciting, scary, overwhelming and fun it can be for kiddos and teachers to go back to school. This year it's really hit Abby that not all her friends may be in her class - she's taking it a little hard and is scared "they'll forget her". As much as I try to reassure her we all know how this works...luckily we live near a lot of her friends and she has activities with them such as girl scouts and sports.

This little cutie is from Mabelle RO (Whimsy and Stars Studio) called Back To School and can be found HERE. One of Abby's friends, who has been in her class the last two years, is not in her class this year. She's pretty sad about it so I made this for her to give to him. It's a tag so that Abby can write her special little note to him on the back of it.

Have you been bitten by the Pinterest bug? Let me tell you that is the BEST thing EVER!! I LOVE it...and not only because of all the cool ideas but I'm actually using/doing stuff from there. I've already made my household binder, menu planning, fixed some new recipes and went out yesterday to buy tile to FINALLY make some coasters! It's been a huge help for me and I'm so glad I joined it.

This jar was made from ideas I got off Pinterest! The printables that fit on the Hershey kisses are from this blog and the apple printable on the front of the jar is from this blog. The jar is an "up" cycle - it used to have paper clips in it that I got at the $ Store.

Before you go I just wanted to share a quick picture of Abby. Yesterday was her performance for her Theatre Camp. She's been attending for 3 weeks. Their play was a collection of Dr. Seuss tales. She did such a good job! There were three stories and in between each one they would do a song & dance number. This is a picture of her getting ready for one of those numbers.

She sure loves to perform for an audience! She DID NOT get that from me!! (BTW, she's the one next to the boy in the back with the two necklaces on and piggy tales) Thanks for stopping by today!

Flutter By Wednesday #165 - Sketch Time!!

2011-08-03T02:00:00.001-05:00

Today for Flutter By Wednesday we are getting sketchy! Danni has created a wonderful sketch for us to use - don't forget your butterfly, fairy or angel!

There are so many possibilities with this sketch so have fun! I rotated the sketch for my card.

I'm using a new set called SEW LOVELY by Nina Bracket available through The Angel Company. It's also a sneak peek at my August Card Kit. I'll show the rest of the cards this week. I paired the sweet stamps from Sew Lovely with Juliette SWIC - love the vintage feel it has. I was going to add butterflies around the image (where the dots are on the sketch) but it seemed a little too much. So I decided to add a butterfly with the sentiment and then accent the image with a few dew drops.

I'd love to see what you do with Danni's sketch! Join us over at the FBW blog and play along! Thanks for stopping by today!

Christmas In July Blog Hop!!

2011-07-31T20:00:00.000-05:00

Good Evening! I joined in a Paper Wings blog hop for July and our theme is CHRISTMAS!! Paper Wings is a place for Angels to gather and there is a fabulous online gallery showing creations using The Angel Company stamp sets.

Of all the Christmas stamps I have I decided I wanted to try something a little different. I seem to always purchase stamps and if I can find other ways to use it then it's a bonus. I grabbed my favorite set HAPPILY GRATEFUL and decided to try and see what I could do.

I love the vine in the set and thought if I paired it with red rhinestones it would give a great Christmas look. I embossed it for extra oomph. Polka Dots are very popular right now so I made my red panel embossed polka dots too.

The mixture of fonts in the sentiment is the perfect addition to the overall card. So whatcha think? I hope I've inspired you to grab those favorite stamp sets and try something new.

Be sure to visit all the other participants for more awesome ideas!

Rita W - http://handmadebits4u.blogspot.com

Michelle M - ME
Seleise - http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/
Laura - http://www.thecraftysister.com/
Wendy - http://wendyswhimsyandwit.blogspot.com/
Laurie U - http://laurieunger.blogspot.com
Chelsea C - www.inkystamps.blogspot.com
Shirley H - http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com
Kim S - http://angelatmydoor.blogspot.com/
Mary - http://marysangelinspirations.blogspot.com/
Angela K - www.angelakelley.blogspot.com
Carol N - http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Betty - http://www.stampinteacher.com
Rita K - http://ritasangels.blogspot.com
Julie - http://juliesstamppad.blogspot.com
Donna - http://lakesidestamper.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by!

Card Details:

Stamps: Simple Starters (polka dots); Happily Grateful (vine); Hung in a Tree (sentiment)

Papers: Kraft, Scarlet and Olive Cardstock

Other: Noir Black Palette Pad, VersaMark, Clear Embossing Powder, Ribbon, Red Rhinestones

Coffee Girl

2011-07-30T02:00:00.001-05:00

Hello! Are you enjoying your weekend? I don't know about you but this summer has just flown by! I know I haven't posted much. I'm sorry about that. School is just around the corner and I'm trying to get organized and cram in as much fun as possible! We've got quite a few things planned in the next few weeks - things that are new (Great Wolf Lodge) and things that are a tradition (Lawrence Fair). Today we are going to our first T-Bones game...Abby's only been to one baseball game and that was when she was like 3. We picked a night when they are supposed to have fireworks after the game too so that will be fun.

So I'm here today to show you a cute little image from Mabelle RO called Coffee Girl. I'm definitely a coffee girl! Have to have it everyday! And with the temperatures being in the 100's the last few weeks my choice has been ice coffee :D

I grabbed my Tickled Pink paper pad from My Mind's Eye and started coloring up this cutie. Then I added a little doodling with my white gel pen. I decided to put a little sentiment directly on the cup...I {heart} how it turned out! See the flower - well I made that with a new EK punch I got. Have you seen these? I got like 3 different ones - they are so fun! The layout is the newest sketch from Jen over on the Deconstructed Sketch Blog - LOVIN' her sketches!!

Well thanks for stopping by today! I hope you have a fabulous weekend! If you liked to get Coffee Girl or see the other FABULOUS digital images from Mabelle RO, just visit the Whimsy and Stars Studio!

FBW #164 - Get Your Stripe On!

2011-07-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

Good Morning to you! Today at Flutter By Wednesday we are getting our STRIPES on! Your NEW creation must include a butterfly, fairy or angel and STRIPES! I don't know about you but I always pick out the stripes and dots so I've got just a few choices.

I received some new stamps from The Angel Company and couldn't wait to ink them up. When I saw these two sets from Nina Bracket in our catalog at seminar I knew they'd be a part of my first order!

And what fairy doesn't have sparkle on her wings? I love that her wings look like butterfly wings...so so pretty! And that sentiment...just makes me smile! I wish I had a bag of pixie dust that I could sprinkle on everyone. I'm sure there would be a lot more happy people in the world that's for sure!

Thanks for stopping by today! Please visit the Flutter By Wednesday blog for all the details on this weeks challenge and to link your creation.

Card Details:

Stamps: Fancy Labels RN-18, Fairy Wishes RN-6

Ink: L'Amore Red Palette Pad, Tuxedo Black Memento

Other: Labels 18 Nestabilities Die, Crystal Stickles, Stardust Clear Gelly Pen

Tune in Tuesday with Happy Leaf

2011-07-26T02:00:00.001-05:00

Today over on the Savvy Projects blog the design team is showcasing creations using the Card Club set for August, Happy Leaf. It's such a wonderful set - providing lots of possibilities! When I first saw the stamp set I knew I wanted to make a card with different colored leaves. I LOVE the colors in the Penelope line so I based my card around that.

I couldn't stop trying things though (yes, it's true I had more than an hour to play...can you believe it?!?!) so I grabbed my Kaleidacolor Autumn Leaves pad and created this beauty.

Pretty simple card - it's a good one to make multiples of. The quote is from another leaf set, Every Leaf that works PERFECTLY with the leaf stamp. Once I finished this card I decided I had to make my own background using the same ink pad.

I'm participating in a sketch swap so that's where the layout came from. I enjoy the Fall because I think it's so amazing how the leaves change colors and each one is so unique. It is definitely a time that delights my heart! The sentiment, which is from a new set called Grace and Peace, captured my feelings exactly.

I hope you've enjoyed my examples today using the set Happy Leaf. Don't forget to stop over at the Savvy Projects Blog to see all the other wonderful samples from the Design Team! Thanks for stopping by!

All the supplies used to make these cards are available through me. Please contact me if you have any questions or would like to purchase anything for yourself.

Flowers to Start the Week off With

2011-07-25T02:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends! So glad you stopped by! Today I wanted to share a creation I made using a fabulous FREE digi (yes, FREE) digi from Mabelle RO. Mabelle is hosting a challenge over on the CDAC (Crafter's Digital Art Center) and she's giving you a FREE digi to use as well as a wonderful sketch and color combo!

The cardstock colors aren't ones I'd normally put together but I LOVE how it turned out. Doesn't it just make you smile? Hope it brightens your Monday just a little :D

Thanks for stopping by!

As Promised...FBW #163

2011-07-20T13:00:00.000-05:00

Well I'm back as promised to show you my Flutter By Wednesday card. Thank you for the emails/comments - I'm feeling better. Thank goodness for good medicine and rest! It's so hard to function with a migraine - especially with a bored 7 year old home with you!

So I whipped up this quick card using one of my favorite paper lines, Echo Park. I've had the butterflies for quite some time but they are black and white and it seems here lately a lot of my cards are using brown. I specifically created this card knowing I wanted to use that butterfly. I found the sketch in my pile of ones to try.

Thank you for coming back to see me! Be sure to visit the FBW Blog and play along with us - the challenge is easy and fun! It's ANYTHING GOES as long as you include a butterfly, fairy or angel!

A tad bit late...

2011-07-20T02:00:00.001-05:00

Sorry folks...I've been hit by a terrible migraine and am going to be a little late getting my post up today for Flutter By Wednesday. This week it's one of your favorite challenges - OPEN! Anything goes as long as you remember to include a butterfly, fairy or angel.

Head on over to the Flutter By Wednesday blog for all the details! I'll be back later with my creation so until then...

Christmas in July

2011-07-15T02:00:00.001-05:00

Have you been visiting? Such wonderful inspiration! Today I'm showcasing a few cards there.

My cards are using one of my favorite paper lines, REECE (V-846). It has the traditional red and green colors that you normally think of at Christmas but also some blue and yellow. The first card uses the stamp set WITH HIS GLORY T-3397. I've never inked it up and thought it was about time I did. I just love the reindeer in the set and the gorgeous script on the sentiment is so pretty!

I wasn't sure how to color him as my favorite reindeer is Rudolph! I did a quick Google search so that I could *try* (key word here) to make my reindeer look as realistic as possible.

Next up is a little cutie patootie set called ANGELS SING T-3428.

This stamp set brings back the memories of caroling which is one of my all time favorite childhood memories. Not sure why I don't do it now - maybe it's because my voice isn't what it used to be, LOL. My daughter, who is a singing fool, would LOVE to do this! Guess I'll need to try and work that in this year...

Not sure you can see that I added some yellow shimmer chalk around the image and some grey chalk at the bottom. I used one of the tags from the REECE Soar With It Collection for my sentiment.

I hope I've inspired you to get out all those holiday goodies and start creating! It's never too early and you'll be glad you did once December rolls around. Because you'll be enjoying the festivities while everyone else is freaking out to get their projects done :D

If you haven't been over to the SAVVY PROJECTS BLOG this week, be sure to visit. There are TONS of wonderful Holiday cards to get your creative mojo going!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Flutter By Wednesday #162 - Photo Inspiration

2011-07-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Hump Day to you...only two more days till the weekend!! I'm hoping to get a TON of crafting time in - so much I want to do and try! Today for FBW, we have a fun one - PHOTO INSPIRATION.

Isn't that a pretty photo - remember to include your fairy, butterfly or Angel on your creation. When I looked at the photo I instantly saw COLOR and knew I wanted to incorporate that.

I used the sweet new digital image, MIMI SUMMER, from Mabelle RO which you can buy HERE. I colored her with my Copics and added some white highlights with my Signo White Gel Pen. I also added Glossy Accents to her eyes. The layout came from The Sweet Stop Sketch #116.

So whatcha think? I hope you'll join us over at the Flutter By Wednesday Blog this week. Before I go I want to say goodbye to a dear friend, Kimberly, who has decided to step down from the design team. We will miss her wonderful creations each year, wish her the best and hope to see her playing along with us again. Thanks for all you've done!

Seminar News & Card Kit Debut

2011-07-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

So I know this post is a little late but I said that I'd do it so I'm doing just that! Above shows all the wonderful trades that I received at seminar as well as my awards. I'm happy to report that I was once again very blessed and feel very fortunate to be working for such a wonderful company!

The seminar group was smaller than usual - I think that where seminar is located and the economy had A HUGE impact on that! We were told that next year TAC was looking to move seminar back to Kansas City and I, for one, couldn't be happier!!

We were given lots of awesome product and did some wonderful projects. I even had the opportunity to teach one - I was nervous but I think it all worked out okay and everyone seemed pleased with my project.

Can you believe all that rubber?!?! I was given 28 stamp sets - yes, folks I was one happy camper. I've gotten them all cut out and indexed but have yet to use them all. Never fear though - I will!! PLUS the catalog is chalk full of so many sets that I've already cashed in one of my gift certificates for more rubber!! If you don't have the catalog yet, you are missing out! Contact me ASAP so I can get this sweet publication in your hand!

While we were at seminar we had the opportunity to hear from another Angel about Card Kits. I don't know if you know but while I was in Memphis I used to work at the LSS there, Eclectica Scrapbooks and Stamps. I had a card kit and it was pretty popular. I enjoy making cards and if I can make it easy for others well then that's a huge plus!

So folks I introduce my first card kit. This is ONLY good for JULY! So get it while you can!!

The kit uses one of the new Nina Bracket stamp sets called WONDERFUL TREES.

It includes all of this!

That is MORE than enough to make the 4 cards I show and more! PLUS if you don't want the kit with the stamp set then I have an option just to get the papers and accessories. Remember this kit is only available for JULY. Contact me today to get yours!

Thanks for stopping by!

Mojo Monday & Little Bug

2011-07-10T17:00:00.000-05:00

I colored this adorable new digi from Mabelle RO called LITTLE BUG and just couldn't wait to share it with you! I saw the fantastic sketch from Mojo Monday this week and realized that I had a few hours left before the contest ends so thought I'd get my entry in there!

Great sketch, right?

Even cuter with LITTLE BUG on it :D - I added some doodles to my strips (thanks for the inspiration Kerry, I just had to try it!) I also added some white highlights using my fantastic Signo White Gel Pen.

You can get LITTLE BUG over at the Whimsy and Stars Studio site. She's the perfect addition to all those summer creations you are making!

Thanks for stopping by!

It's a SPOTLIGHTING Technique Blog Hop!

2011-07-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend over on the SAVVY PROJECTS BLOG, we are having a blog hop featuring the technique SPOTLIGHTING. Here's what I came up with:

The hardest part for me was to determine what stamp set to use. I finally decided on BLESSINGS TO YOU (T3240) and stamped that on my white cardstock. Next I stamped it on another piece that I knew I'd color in using my Copics. I realized that a circle element would be neat so I used my circle punch to punch out the color portion. I did a small scallop mat around the circle to set it off a little more.

Once I got done I realized that some bling would really make the spotlight portion shine so I grabbed my IROCK tool and started gluing...have I mentioned how much I LOVE that tool :D

I used an old Playdate Cafe Challenge for my colors...love how the yellow seems to make everything pop! It's a color combo I probably wouldn't have thought of on my own!

I hope you'll join in and participate in the blog hop. You have all weekend to play along! Need some inspiration to get you started? Check out what others have done!

A Blog Hop for Sweet Elizabeth at Softpencil Studios!

2011-07-05T11:00:00.001-05:00

Today we say goodbye to Softpencil Digital Images...that's right Elizabeth has decided to close her store so after August 1st you will no longer be able to get her digital images. Don't worry though - you will still be able to find her adorable characters in other ways (see Softpencil Studios for details).

The DT girls decided to get together and throw Elizabeth a final farewell blog hop to let her know how much we love her and to thank her for letting us be a part of her company. You should have arrived from Lisa's blog (If not, you better start at the beginning which is here). Elizabeth is just the sweetest and I'm going to miss designing for her on a weekly basis!

I decided to use a past image to create my final card...

I don't know why but I've been in the star kind of mood lately. Figured I better not do another patriotic card so I went with Halloween. This is the Happy Halloween digi. Ok you'll want to continue the blog hop so now it's time to go visit Patty's blog.

I hope you will join us as we showcase the sweet characters of Softpencil....they've made an impression on me that I will always treasure! Thanks for stopping by today!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T02:00:00.001-05:00

Nothing says 4th of July celebrations like food, friends, fireworks and watermelon! Yep, I don't know about you but at our celebrations there is always some watermelon! When I saw Mabelle's new digi, WATERMELON BOY I knew I wanted to create a card using the 'ol red, white and blue colors.

I used Taylored Expressions Sketch Challenge #141 for my layout. The paper is a new pad I picked up by WeRMemory Keepers. You can get WATERMELON BOY and many other awesome digital images over at the Whimsy & Stars Studio.

Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you have a wonderful and safe 4th of July...and that you get a chance to eat a little watermelon :D

America I Love

2011-07-01T01:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'm showing a new Level A set called America I Love. You can get this stamp FREE with a qualifying party. I'm not used to stamps like this but I have to tell you I had so much fun coloring it up and I'm diggin' the collage look...

It's hard to see but where the "white" is I used my Stardust Clear Gelly pen for some shimmer. I kept my card pretty simple as I wanted the image to really stand out. I used the new Signo White Gel Pen in the catalog to had the white border and let me tell you it is THE BEST EVAH! I {heart} it and totally recommend it! We even have Gold and Silver ones and I'm going to be ordering those right away!

I want to share a little about seminar - so look for another post soon. I had a fabulous time, got lots of inspiration and hung out with lots of Angel friends! I'm trying to unpack and cut all the rubber I got...can you say 28 stamp sets!! I'm LOVIN' them all too! I'll be having a OPEN HOUSE next week so I'm trying to update my sample boards, sample tubs and get everything prepared. If you are near Topeka I hope you'll join me - it's Friday, July 8th at 6pm. I'll have catalogs, a FREE make-n-take, we'll do a little coloring and have TONS of fun so email me if you can come.

Thanks for stopping by!

Catalog is now Online

2011-06-29T12:00:00.002-05:00

Folks I'm so happy to report that the NEW 2011-2012 catalog from The Angel Company is now available online. So if you are waiting to get the new book and just can't wait to see all the wonderful new stamp sets then you better check out this link!

http://www.theangelcompany.net/page/20112012-inspiration-book

If you would like to get a catalog feel free to contact me - I picked up my order at seminar and have them now to deliver!

The cost is just $6.95 if you are local or I can ship it for $10. Better yet why not get two and share with a friend for just $15 (includes shipping to one address).

Grab a cup of ice coffee and enjoy browsing the online version - then contact me to get the book as you are going to want to have all the wonderful inspiration and ideas and your fingertips!!

A Joyful Hello for Flutter By #160

2011-06-29T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today for Flutter By Wednesday we have an OPEN challenge - anything goes as long as you use a butterfly, fairy or angel on your new creation. I'm showing a card that I originally submitted for the catalog design call at The Angel Company. I used the butterfly from the Gift of Friendship stamp set. The stamp set was first released as a Spring Fling special but is now available in the new catalogue.

My friend Ellen and I are a little ROY G BIV obsessed - love me some color! It makes me happy and totally brings a smile to my face. Repeating the butterflies in that color combo just seemed the thing to do, lol!

This week Through The Craft Door is giving away a FREE one year subscription to one random participant. So make sure you play along! Head over to the FBW Blog to read all the details and to link your NEW creation. Good Luck!

Thanks for stopping by!

Cupcakes & New Stamps

2011-06-28T14:00:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon! Have you missed me? Last week I spent time finishing up trades, swaps and such for seminar. Plus I was asked to teach a class at seminar so I had to work out those details. Danni, who I've had the pleasure of talking with on the phone and exchanging lots of emails with also flew out on Wednesday and then left on Monday. It was a complete blast and I will share details very soon but let me tell you if you don't have a rep from TAC already, contact me as you will want to get the FABULOUS new catty!!!

Ok so I'm a tad late with Softpencil but that is because all my stuff was packed for seminar and since I hadn't unpacked anything yet I had to do that first. Then I couldn't see my desk to even create so had to clear that off....let's just say that the last day has been trying to get organized!

Today, I'm sad to say is the last day for Softpencil as Elizabeth has decided to close her digi stamp store. No worries you have until August 1st to get the digi's though so hurry on over there!

Today we are using Ratiny on a Cupcake. I'm in the patriotic mood with 4th of July coming up so thought I'd use those colors. Plus I'm hoping to make some kind of treat for our parade & picnic and I thought cupcakes would be perfect!

Now even though we are saying goodbye to Softpencil Digi's we are saying hello to her new rubber stamps! I'm so thrilled to be a part of such a wonderful company! The Angel Company has launched three new sets exclusively from Softpencil Studios.

I can help you get these rubber stamps in your home! You can email me for details. And I can ship ANYWHERE so everyone can get them!! At seminar we were give the first set called Sunshine & Joy....it's so fun and I can't wait to show you some projects using it! The second set is called Sweet Spring and the third is With Love. I adore that snail and rabbit in the With Love set...can't wait to get that one!

Thanks for stopping by today! I'll be back tomorrow with a Flutter By project - see ya then!

NEW Inspiration Book & Catalogue Available NOW!!

2011-06-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to share with you the new catalogue from The Angel Company! It is jammed packed with TONS of new stamp sets as well as many other things like...

3 new illustrators - Softpencil Studios (yep, Elizabeth now has rubber stamps!!), Nina B and Phyllis Harris plus wonderful new sets from the fabulous Mabelle RO
60 Smoothies cardstock colors - and let me tell you these are YUM-O-LICIOUS!
Individual Sketch Copic Markers and Refills
Sew Easy Fancy Floss and Bakers Twine
New Mementos line - ink pads, dew drops, re-inkers, markers and I-Zing glitter glue
Big Kick Die Cut Machine, texture plates and dies
New Nestabilities Dies (plus Nina B has released coordinating stamp sets for them!)
Copic XPress-it cardstock
Spica Glitter Pen sets
New Flower Punches - LOVE the Floriano 2/18" one...BEAUTIFUL!

Is that enough? No? Well we also have 8 NEW level A Hostess Sets, 4 NEW level B Hostess Sets and 1 New level C Hostess Set. And who can forget the 12 NEW GWP stamps that are FREE with a $30 purchase!?!?!

I'm telling you - you need to get this in your hands! The samples are so inspiring and truly beautiful. And I'm not saying that just cause I have a card in there :D

So how do you get this...well you can email me and I'll will send you one for $10 (which includes priority shipping). Want one for your friend? Then you can get two for $15 (shipping to the same address). How's that for a deal? Contact me soon cause these are going to FLY off the shelf!

Come and Get It!!! Summer Release is HERE!!!

2011-06-18T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today is the day!! It's time to get all those wonderful new digi's available exclusively at Whimsy and Stars Studio!! Let me introduce you to FLOATY GIRL

I know - how stinkin' cute is she?!?! LOVE her little piggy tails!

I used the fabulous Echo Park Splash collection - isn't it awesome? LOVE me some Echo Park, people!!

Thanks for stopping by today - rush on over to Whimsy & Stars Studio and get FLOATY GIRL and all the other new digi's for your collection. You know you NEED them :D

Thanks for stopping by today! Have a great weekend!!

Sneak Peek - He Created Spring!

2011-06-17T02:00:00.000-05:00

I'm the Guest Designer over on the Savvy Projects blog today and I'm showing a sneak peek of a new set from The Angel Company called He Created Spring. It's from Mabelle RO and as you know I'm a HUGE fan of her images!!

I was able to paper piece her dress using the Maggie collection. I love the colors in all the Maggie papers which is what made me choose my Copics for coloring.

I added lots of little details with my white gel pen. I wish I had the Copic colors I used for you but I forgot to write them down before cleaning my work space. SORRY!

You can purchase He Created Spring at a special price right now BEFORE it debuts in the new catalog which I will have in my little hands next week....eeeeeekkkkkk! I'm so excited! If you are interested in purchasing just email me as it's not available through my website at the special price. You can see this set and the other sneak peeks from The Angel Company's new catalog HERE.

Thanks for stopping by today!!

It's Almost Time...

2011-06-16T02:00:00.000-05:00

Just a few more days...
Mark your calendars - you won't be disappointed!!!

Flutter By Wednesday # 159 - Color Combo

2011-06-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends! How is your summer going? I hope well - I know it's been busy for me and time just seems to be flying by. I NEED for it to slow down a bit - there is so much I want to do before school starts back up! First up on that NEED to do list is teaching myself how to crochet and doing some sewing/fabric projects! Oh well maybe soon...right now I'm busy creating cards and trades for seminar next week. Well I guess I should say I'm creating them as I haven't even started yet, lol! BUT good news is I have ideas...ANYWAY you are visiting to see my wonderful Flutter By Creation, right!

This week we have a color combo for you - pink, orange and green along with a butterfly, fairy or angel. I have a basket beside my desk that is FULL of new stamps that I have yet had time to add to my index book. I decided that I better start using some of them since I have no idea when they'll actually get put away!

I used my Butterfly Pure Innocence which I paper pieced and colored with my Copics. The paper is from October Afternoon. I had trouble finding just orange, pink and green paper which is a shocker with all the paper that I have! I used Verve June week 2 sketch for the layout.

So whatcha think? I hope you'll find some time to sit down a create and join us in our challenge. We'd love to have you! Visit the Flutter By Wednesday blog for all the details! Thanks for stopping by today!

Vintage Rides

2011-06-14T22:00:00.000-05:00

I've got a sneak peek of a new stamp set from Nina Brackett. She's one of three new designers with The Angel Company. The set I'm showcasing today is called Vintage Rides.

Gotta love that bicycle - I pimped it out to look like something my daughter would ride. I added glitter and sparkle and even made the banana seat glossy...remember those back in the day?Makes me think of my childhood and having the plastic basket on the front to carry all my treasures.

I had to put something in the basket so decided some flowers would be good. The background is from the Simple Starters stamp set - I stamped it with VersaMark and then embossed it with clear embossing powder to give it a little shine.

You can see more samples using Vintage Rides over on the Savvy Projects Blog. If you are interested in purchasing this set for yourself, feel free to contact me. Thanks for stopping by!

Hello Sweets

2011-06-14T02:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday to you! Thanks for joining me for another Softpencil Tuesday! Today we are showcasing Amy on a Cupcake with you. I colored the digital image with my Copics. For the cupcake I used my hand held circle punch and punched out some small circles to represent confetti. I then added glitter over all of it. I kind of wish I would have just put glitter on the confetti circles and then put Glossy Accents over everything else. Oh well...gives me reason to make another one, lol!

I used some of my favorite paper from Doodlebug - don't think they make anything I don't like! The sentiment is from a set that was available in the Spring Fling by The Angel Company called Sweet Sayings...love those fonts!

Remember this is Elizabeth's last digital stamp collection. She will be closing her store August 1st so head on over the the Softpencil Blog and pick up Amy on a Cupcake before it's too late!

Good news - some of Elizabeth's images will be available in rubber from The Angel Company. And luckily for you - you know someone who works for them...ME :D Look for more information about her stamps next month when the new catalog debuts!

Thanks for stopping by!

Check It Out - New Digi's Coming SOON!!!

2011-06-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

Oh yeah and they are all ADORABLE!!! Check back on Saturday for a creation using one of the new digi's...can't tell you which one though because I'm having a hard time choosing just ONE!!

Birthday Time!!

2011-06-11T20:00:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! Quick post here to share another fabulous digital image from Mabelle RO called Birthday Turtle. He's so cute and perfect for a boy's birthday.

I used The Sweet Stop sketch SSS111 for my layout. Papers are from TAC called Kaleidoscope Boyz. I added glitter to the cupcake and liquid applique to his hat. It was fun to create a card without pink. I did realize though I don't have a lot of non girly papers...good thing we know more girls than boys, lol!

You can get Birthday Turtle in the Whimsy and Stars Studio shop here. Thanks for stopping by today. Hope you have a fabulous weekend!

Favorites Blog Hop

2011-06-10T14:00:00.001-05:00

Today over on the Savvy Projects Blog we are having a FAVORITES blog hop. That's right use your FAVORITE stamp, colors, technique - whatever! So I had to use my FAVORITE set Happily Grateful...

I also had to use my FAVORITE colors, my FAVORITE sentiments (Sophisticated Sentiments) and my FAVORITE product - glitter!!

I hope you'll join us this weekend and show us what YOUR FAVORITE is...I know I want to see it! You can see more fabulous inspiration from all the participants.

Going Dotty at Flutter By Wednesday

2011-06-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

This week at Flutter By Wednesday we are going dotty - that's right we want to see those polka dots along with your butterfly, fairy or angel on a NEW creation! I used the new digi from Wee Stamps called Fairy...she's so beautiful!

Since the image is so pretty I didn't want to add too much...I'm in awe of her wings. LOVE them!!

I hope you'll join us this week at FBW. Just visit the blog to see some wonderful creation and to link your card. I'd like to take a moment and THANK everyone for playing and joining us each Wednesday. We are happy to report that we have OVER 600 FOLLOWERS!!! THANK YOU for making FBW such a success!!

Thanks for stopping by!

New Collection From Softpencil & Some News

2011-06-07T02:00:00.004-05:00

This month Elizabeth is releasing a new collection to the Softpencil Store and it's all about cupcakes!

Ratiny on a Cupcake

Charmy on a Cupcake

Amy on a Cupcake

Aren't they adorable?! Look for my creations using them during the month of June. Also, with a sad heart, I must tell you that this will be Elizabeth's last release. She has decided to close her digital stamp store on August 1st. That means you only have a couple of months to get these new images as well as her other ones before they are gone. Stop by the Softpencil Blog for all the details and to visit the Etsy store to buy some of the digital stamps now.

Thanks for stopping by!

Unexpected Treasures

2011-06-03T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'd like to share another cutie from Mabelle RO called Searching

Not sure what she's looking for but unexpected treasures are sure to be found! She's so fun to color and I had to add some Glossy Accents to the magnifier...it looks awesome IRL!
I used my new MME paper, Lime Twist - LOVE the colors! They are so ME! You can bet you'll see MANY more creations using this paper pad.

Want to grab this digital image for yourself? Head on over to the Whimsy and Stars Studio blog to see all the happenings and to visit Mabelle's Etsy shop. There are so many cute images that I know you'll want to get!

Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you have a wonderful weekend! I'm hoping to get some crafting time in and get ahead. Seminar is in a couple of weeks and I need to start working on my swaps. Plus there are all these fun things I want to try. Good thing Abby is in camp next week - cause mommy's going to be B U S Y :D

You Make My Heart Sing

2011-06-02T02:00:00.001-05:00

For the month of June and July you can pick up the limited edition stamp set, You Make My Heart Sing, at a special price!

The set has some cute images but I decided to pick this one as it was something a little different for me. See there is a cute girl who is a butterfly that I so grabbed first to use but then realized that I ALWAYS use those images so wanted something else :D

Went pretty simple on this card. There are two things that I think make this card cool - first off I used scraps of cardstock (GOTTA LOVE THIS) and second you could pick ANY three colors and change the card completely...so very easy. Add some twine and you've got an awesome card quickly. Can't beat that!

Here's the entire set you can get:

Want to see more inspiration? The Dream Team made some fabulous samples and they are featured on the Savvy Projects blog. You can visit my website (michellem.ismyangel.net) to get this set for yourself or email me.

Thanks for stopping by today!

FBW #157 Sponsored by Paper Pretties

2011-06-01T02:00:00.001-05:00

This week at FBW we are being sponsored by Paper Pretties. We were given a few different digi's to work with and I decided to use FLUTTERBY

too cute - perfect digi for Flutter By Wednesday challenge!! I used another new 6x6 paper pad that I got recently by Echo Park called A Walk In The Park. LOVE the fabulous colors and designs in their papers. I used it for color inspiration when coloring my image.

Do you ever go back and forth trying to decide whether to add a sentiment or not on your cards? I mean I make so many cards and am not using them (which is one of my goals for the summer to change). Heck a lot of times I just make card fronts...trying to change that though because that's one less thing stopping me from sending it out. KWIM?

I hope you'll join us this week...remember anything goes as long as you include a butterfly, angel or fairy on your NEW creation! Stop by the Flutter By Wednesday blog to link your creation and to check out some awesome inspiration! PLUS there is a giveaway so you'll want to join in on the fun!

Thanks for stopping by!

Sending Hugs

2011-05-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

So did the long weekend seem short to you? So much going on. I'm happy to report that we (meaning Abby & I) were able to enjoy the last few days. Our medication finally kicked in and we are feeling better!

Here's something to start your week off right...

RAINY CLOUD by Softpencil Studios is the digital image we are showcasing this week. I don't know about you but I can always use some extra hugs when the weather is cloudy and rainy.

I thought the image would make a good cheer up kind of card. I found the background paper in my new 6x6 paper pads and thought it mimic the rain drops.

You can see more samples using RAINY CLOUD by visiting the blogs of the DT (see list on the right). Want RAINY CLOUD for yourself? Head on over to the Softpencil Blog for details.

Thanks for stopping by today!

My First Christmas Card for 2011!

2011-05-30T19:30:00.000-05:00

Hope you had a great weekend! I meant to post this early but was enjoying the weather with family. Plus today marks my 13th wedding anniversary so I felt it only right to spend some time helping the hubby where I could :D

So May is almost over which means the Savvy Projects Card A Day In May promo is almost over. We have one more sketch for you.

It's a nice "easy" one that allows for a large image. I decided to ink up Hung On A Tree and finally get a Christmas card created. Since I'm not on the CSAYL DT anymore I haven't been doing any Christmas cards and I think that's going to end up biting me later on. Oh well...too much going on and I need to take a break somewhere!

I colored the tree with pencils and OMS and then added some sparkle using the Stardust Clear Gelly Pen. Not sure you can see but I used some yellow shimmer chalk to add some depth around the tree...really makes it shimmer!

It's nice to have one Christmas card done...I think it may inspire me to try and do some more each week! Yeah right we'll see if that happens!! With summer vacation here there is so much I want to do...but so far I'm enjoying the taking it easy part!

Thanks for stopping by!

Love You!

2011-05-27T11:00:00.001-05:00

Over on the Savvy Projects Blog for the month of May we are doing a Card A Day. Here is my card for this week - decided to finally ink the set MICE DAY up.

Each week Heather has provided us a sketch to use - love that she includes the dimensions!

And here is my completed card
I've seen so many ruffles on cards so wanted to try that. Plus my sewing machine is finally somewhere where I can actually use it :D I colored the image first and then pulled the cardstock colors from it. My hubby and I will be celebrating 13 years of marriage on Monday so I was in the love you mood!

Drop over to the Savvy Projects blog to see all the wonderful creations and to play along! Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have a great weekend - stay safe!!

Check Out This Cutie!

2011-05-26T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today I have a cutie patootie to show you...can I just say how much I LOVE this card! It probably has something to do with the adorable digi and the wonderful colors I used.

So am I right or am I right? So cute!

This is another fabulous digi from Mabelle RO over on the Whimsy & Stars Studio called Birdhouse Girl. She has so many wonderful digi's it's hard to pick just one!

Thanks for stopping by today! We have some terrible storms the last few days but we are supposed to have a nice day today. Looking forward to the break in rain...don't mind the rain - it's the tornadoes! My nerves can't take much more!

FBW #156 Clean & Simple

2011-05-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

We are going CAS today at Flutter By Wednesday. That's right create a Clean & Simple creation and make sure you have a butterfly, fairy or angel on it.

I used an old Clean & Simple fall-to layout for my card. The butterflies may appear a little "fuzzy". I stamped them once with blue ink and then also with pink. It's hard to capture the look but trust be it's pretty IRL!

Stop by the Flutter By Wednesday to join in on the fun! Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps used are from The Angel Company. Butterfly Swirls, Sophisticated Sentiments and Gift of Friendship. You can purchase these stamps and many more on my website - www.michellem.ismyangel.net.

Michu and His Friends Take A Ride

2011-05-24T21:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's Tuesday so I should be showcasing the wonderful new digital stamp, Hanging On A Star. BUT I've been working on something else (and yes, it uses a Softpencil Image) so I don't have a creation. You can check out the team members blogs for some fabulous creations using Hanging On A Star (links are on my sidebar).

Such a sweet digital stamp - perfect for a baby creation. Totally can see it colored in soft pinks :D

Before you go you have to check out my creation for Abby's school bus driver. I asked Elizabeth about creating a digital stamp for me. I told her I was thinking about a bus with Michu and all his friends. Elizabeth is AWESOME and created this for me...

Aren't you smiling right now?!?! This is AWESOME!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE it - thank you so very much Elizabeth! Abby is so excited about giving this to Ms Williams tomorrow. It's about the size of 1/2 a sheet of regular cardstock. I printed two out on one sheet and colored one using Copics. The other one I glued to some chipboard and cut out. After coloring the image I glued it on top of the other image/chipboard. Then I ran a thin sheet of magnet backing through my Xyron and stuck it to the chipboard.

I wanted the whole thing to be a magnet so it would easily stick - hoping that she will be able to have it on her bus. I wanted to add her bus number but each year it changes. So instead I added her name to it. I think she's really going to like it - well I hope she does anyway!

You can see Hanging On A Star and many other super cute digital images over on the Softpencil Blog - stop by today!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Feel Better Soon

2011-05-19T02:00:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! Today is my last day at Preschool - woohoo summer vacation here I come! I'm going to miss my class though but luckily for me they will be moving up in the Preschool so I'll still see them. That's good believe me. Otherwise I'd be shedding LOTS of tears instead of just the few that I will.

Today I wanted to share a card using Mabelle RO's digital image FEEL BETTER SOON.

Isn't she too cute! I'm always looking for cute images to make get well cards.
I stamped my sentiment on my black cardstock using VersaMagic Cloud White Ink Pad. It's such a wonderful ink pad...shows up REALLY well!

You can get FEEL BETTER SOON for yourself over at the Whimsy and Stars Studio. Thanks so much for stopping by!

FBW #155 - Carly's Sketch (and Happy Birthday to me)

2011-05-18T09:50:00.004-05:00

What a glorious Wednesday - even though it's raining outside I don't care! It's my birthday and I'm celebrating. And by celebrating I mean having a day to myself to do whatever! First up a little crafting - ok maybe that's all I will do but that's ok since it's my birthday, lol!

For Flutter By Wednesday we have another wonderful sketch from Carly to use. Remember to have a butterfly, angel or fairy on your NEW creation.

Here is my card

I just got a new set Butterfly stamp set and die that I really wanted to use. I'm really enjoying the ability to create a cute card quickly. My birthday stash is a little low which is why I seem to be making so many lately. All the cardstock is from my scrap pile as well...so nice to be able to use those up!

I hope you'll give Carly's sketch a try...it's a lot of fun. Head over to the FBW blog to see all the details. Be sure to stop by the DT's blogs as well - I'm sure their creations will knock your socks off! Thanks so much for stopping by!

Supplies:

Stamps: Damask Backgrounder and Thinking of You from The Angel Company; Butterfly Dreams (PTI)Other: Leaf Die (Sizzix), Butterfly Die (PTI), IRock Rhinestones, Twine, VersaMark and Noir Black Palette Pad Ink Pad

Glitter & Rhinestones Challenge

2011-05-17T02:00:00.000-05:00

This week we are celebrating Softpencil's Anniversary!! What better way than to have a fabulous challenge and a chance to win some goodies?!?! I'm in the process of trying to make some teacher gifts so I decided to use the fabulous MICHU & RATINY GO TO SCHOOL.

I took a large clothespin and covered it with some school papers from Creative Memories. I colored Michu & Ratiny with Copics. Since the challenge is GLITTER & RHINESTONES, I added some Stickles to the pencil and rhinestones at the bottom of the clip using my IRock tool.

On the back of the clip, I personalized each one using glittered alphabet stickers. I'm planning on buying some Sonic Gift Cards to put in each clip along with a note of thanks. Just something to let them know I appreciate all they've done this year - it's been kind of a long tough year. Lots of changes. Speaking of change - I was voted in as PTO Treasurer for the next two years...I've got some learning to do too :D

I hope you'll join in on the fun - stop by the Softpencil Blog for all the details! Thanks so much for stopping by today!

A Card A Day In The Month Of May

2011-05-12T02:00:00.000-05:00

****ETA - with Blogger having issues, I lost this post and am reposting it****

Yes, it's true! This month the Savvy Projects blog is showcasing a card every day! Talk about inspiration galore!! And if you are a sketch lover, like myself, it gets even better because each week a different sketch from the fabulous Heather will be used!!

Sometimes I feel as though I'm about two steps behind - and this week I'm like 4 days late in showing my card that I actually had done BEFORE May! Oh well such is life. So first up is my creation using week 1 sketch

The Sketch - Heather even includes the dimensions so it's easy cutting!!

Had to grab my favorite set Happily Grateful. Tried to use bright happy colors as I want to make the recipient smile when they get this!

Added some Scrapper's Floss and a button to add some interest. Whatcha think?

Next is this week's sketch :D

I decided to use the Stamp Of The Month, Sunflowers for this card. In the month of May you can get this fabulous set for only $7.95 with a qualifying purchase.

Just trying to show how I paper pieced the container and cut out the sunflowers and attached with some pop dots. I added a little shading around the flowers to give it more depth as well.

Around the red cardstock, I used my Scor-Buddy to add an embossed box. It just gives it a little more "umph".

So whatcha think? Please take a few minutes/hours/days to go check out the Savvy Projects blog and all the inspiration! Better yet, add your own inspiration and play along. We'd love to have you!!

FBW #154 - Anything But A Card

2011-05-11T01:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another Flutter By Wednesday! The challenge this week is to create ANYTHING BUT A CARD - remember to include your butterflies, angels or fairies on it as well.

I used one of the new Mabelle RO digital images called Cups of Kindness. You can get it at Whimsy and Stars Studio. I think it's an image that can be used for so many reasons. I wasn't sure what to create for this challenge so I went with a magnet...I know my fridge has them and my Mom collects magnets so it's something that would make a nice little "thinking of you" or "thank you" kind of gift.

It's kind of hard to tell from the photo but I put Glossy Accents on the butterfly die cuts and then sprinkled some glitter on them. The magnet is made using a Basic Grey chipboard tag...Lord, knows how long I've had them! Know I idea where I got them or when that's how old they are :D

I buy magnetic strips by the roll. One side has adhesive so it's easy to apply. Seems to really hold too. Of course, it's only been a couple of days since I made this so ask me again in a week, lol! I applied Walnut Ink to the edges of the chipboard which is what you are seeing on the back - in case you were wondering what that brown looking stuff is.

I hope you will join us this week. Sometimes it's fun to think outside the box and do something a little different. I liked working on a smaller scale - and now I have a cute little gifty all ready to go! Be sure to stop by the FBW blog for all the details. Remember the DT is awesome so check out their blogs for more inspiration...you can find their links on my sidebar!

Thanks for stopping by!

Starry Night

2011-05-10T02:00:00.001-05:00

Softpencil Tuesday is here and today we are showcasing the new digital image, Starry Night.

When I saw the image I knew I wanted to make a baby card. One of the doctors that Jay works with just had a baby girl so I knew that I would need to make my little kitty pink :D

Oh how pretty in pink! I added Glossy Accents to the moon and some Stickles to the stars. I used my pencils and OMS to color in the image. I wanted the image to be the focal point so I added my quote/sentiment on the inside.

So many times I just make card fronts so it was nice to make an actual card and decorate the inside as well. The sentiment is from The Angel Company's Hello Baby stamp set. Totally fun to make a baby card as well....makes me wonder if we should have one :D

Stop by the Softpencil Blog to see what's happening and to get Starry Night for yourself. It's Softpencil's Anniversary month so there are lots of fun things happening! Don't miss out!!

Thanks for stopping by!

My Sweet Friend

2011-05-04T23:00:00.000-05:00

Well it's still Wednesday (barely) and I'm just now finding a few free minutes to post my Flutter By Wednesday creation. Let me just say whew what a week! I'm so ready for Thursday afternoon to get here because then I will finally have a few moments to spare!

Abby has had a softball game every night this week! Have we won one yet? Nope but we have improved each time which is a HUGE accomplishment. PLUS Abby is staying positive and enjoying it which is awesome cause Abby can be so hard on herself!

Anyway back to FBW. This week we are being sponsored by The Paper Shelter. They have some adorable digital images. I decided to use Inked Faery Emma for my card...

Had to give her some glitter too - all faeries need shimmer & shine!

I used an old Sweet Sunday Sketch for my card. I've got a few new dies - MTF flower dies and Spellbinder's Pennants so I wanted to use them. Didn't want to use too many colors since Emma is so colorful.

I'd like to welcome Cindy Haffner to the Flutter By Team! We also have a guest designer this week - please make sure you stop by and see Amy Young's creation as well. Lots of fun stuff - since we are being sponsored by The Paper Shelter there is a prize up for grabs! Head over to the FBW Blog for all the details!

Thanks for stopping by - I so appreciate you taking the time to visit my blog!

New Collection & Some News

2011-05-03T02:00:00.000-05:00

Softpencil Studios has a new release this month known as the Sky Collection

pretty cute, right? I'll be showcasing the images during the month of May so stay tuned. Now for some news - May is also Softpencil's anniversary! There will be a challenge on May 18th (AWESOME DAY TOO...it's my birthday :D) and a chance to win a $10 gift certificate to the Softpencil Shop!!

There is even more - The Angel Company will be launching a line of rubber stamps with the Tinytwinies in June! How exciting is that! Lots of exciting stuff happening with Softpencil Studios so be sure to visit the blog so you don't miss anything!

Thanks for stopping by!

Non Crafting Post But LOTS of Abby Photos

2011-04-29T02:00:00.001-05:00

It's been a busy month for Abby! So many things going on. Thought I'd share a few pictures...some are not the best quality has it's late and I just wanted to get this post up since I've been promising you (and Abby) that I'd share some!

Yes, that's Abby walking across a bridge being goofy! She bridged from Daisy's to Brownies - I'm the troop leader so if you have any ideas or advice for me let me know. I have a group of 16 girls and well it's been kind of a tough. But I do it for Abby so it's all worth it :D

This was Abby at her last soccer game. It was cold (hence the jacket) and she was cheering on her team. They ended up losing but they played their hearts out! Soccer is one of her favorite sports and I really enjoy watching her play...she's got some fancy footwork going on. If I could only get her to be just a tad more aggressive!

With Abby being a crafter like her Mommy she loves decorating Easter Eggs. We had sponge paint, spin a wheels and regular die. She had a blast and I even decorated a couple too (couldn't resist...love me some color, lol!)

Lastly here is a photo from Easter morning. She woke up to find that the Easter bunny had delivered some eggs in our backyard! She couldn't believe it and was so excited to run out to find them all! That afternoon we went to Grandma's & Papa's for dinner and more fun...we had an egg hunt, an egg race (where I have to admit my team tried to cheat and we still lost!) and an outdoor game of ladder ball. All in all it was a very enjoyable day!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have a wonderful weekend!! No games for us this weekend...I'm not going to know what to do with myself, lol!

It's Release Day at Whimsy and Stars Studio!!!

2011-04-28T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today is the day!! Rush on over to the Whimsy and Stars Studio shop to get the new digi stamp collection!

Yesterday I showed you Bday Chickie from the new Spring collection and today I'd like for you to meet Rosie Ballerina...

AAAAA-dorable, right? I know that ballerina's are pink and such but I wanted to show you how cute she can be in any color!

Stopped by my local LSS yesterday and picked a jillibean soup paper pad which is another reason why I wanted to use these colors, lol! My daughter has a "pink boo" that has been with her since birth...I'm thinking next time that Rosie need to be pink instead of brown!

So whatcha think? I'm telling you Mabelle has some of the best digital images...so fun to color and oh so cute! So go on over to the Whimsy and Stars Studio Blog for all the details and to do a little shopping! Oh and share your creations - I'd love to see what you do!!

Thanks for stopping by!

FBW #152 - 3, 2, 1 Recipe Challenge

2011-04-27T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today for Flutter By Wednesday we have a recipe challenge for you. You need to create a NEW creation using a butterfly, angel or fairy along with 3 flowers, 2 designer papers and 1 button!

See that chicka - cute, right? That's a new digi from Mabelle R.O. (Whimsy and Stars Studio) called BDay Chickie...LOVE IT!!

So can you see all my ingredients? I have to admit that I forgot my butterfly, fairy or angel and had to think quick. Didn't even realize it till I went to my to-do list to cross off my FBW creation! So with a few punches/dies I was back in business!

Want to get that digital stamp for yourself? Well you'll have to wait till tomorrow...but there is some good news. BDay Chickie isn't the only digital image being released!! A little sneaky peak for you...

So be sure to visit the Whimsy and Stars Studio tomorrow (and check back here cause there just might be another creation using another NEW digital image...HINT, HINT!). I hope you'll give our recipe challenge a try! Go to the Flutter By Wednesday Blog for all the details and to link your creation!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Softpencil Tuesday - Hello Friend!

2011-04-26T02:00:00.001-05:00

Good Morning! Welcome to another Softpencil Tuesday. Today we are showcasing one of Elizabeth's newest digital stamps called Growing Flowers In Pots.

Aren't they adorable? I am hoping I will be able to grow some flowers this Spring/Summer but I must admit I'm not very good at remembering to water things! But I'm vowing to try harder...especially now that I have a nice deck and patio furniture. I want to enjoy the outdoors a little more this year :D

I went a little colorful with this card...couldn't help it! I need some happiness and this card does that. So cheerful and happy!

Hope you enjoy my creation today! Thank you for stopping by. Lots of things going on here...I have pictures too. Just need to share - we've had a bridging ceremony in Girl Scouts, the last soccer game of the season and Easter. We were also supposed to have Abby's first softball game but it got rained out. Look for pictures soon...I'm sure you'll be surprised at how much Abby has grown. Especially since I seem to forget to share pictures, lol!

Oh Sweet Friend!

2011-04-20T01:30:00.001-05:00

This week for Flutter By Wednesday we have the awesome OPEN challenge - anything goes as long as you use a fairy, butterfly or angel on your NEW creation. Softpencil Studios released a new set of digital images and I'm using Charming Flowers for my creation this week.

Love how she's spreading fairy dust all over the flowers.

I used The Sweet Stop Sketch (SSS104) for the layout plus we were supposed to use winged things...fairies gotta count, right? :D

I hope you'll join us at FBW this week - just head over to the blog for all the details. And if you'd like to purchase Charming Flowers, visit the Softpencil Studios website.

Thanks so much for stopping by today!! Your comments always brighten my day!

Finally Friday

2011-04-15T02:00:00.000-05:00

It's finally Friday and I'm the guest designer over on The Angel Company's Savvy Projects blog! I'm showcasing Easter Favors and Treat Holders. To get all the details visit the Savvy Projects blog! Thanks for stopping by!!

Yippee for FBW - Challenge #150

2011-04-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

We've reached another milestone at the Flutter By Wednesday Blog!! Today marks the #150 challenge for us!! Woohoo what an honor. And a couple of weeks ago we had over 200 participants...man how we've grown!! THANK YOU to everyone who joins us....WE LOVE YOU ALL!! To celebrate, Danni has a special giveaway going on! THREE random participants in this weeks challenge will win some free stamps! So what's the challenge this week? PASTEL CARDS - remember include a butterfly, angel or fairy on your NEW creation!!

I used one of my favorite TAC sets, Wonder & Joy. LOVE this little cutie...so reminds me of my Abby :D I used the awesome April sketch from I{heart}2stamp.

So whatcha think? Can you believe I didn't use any pink? I can't!! Seems like I always grab that color so I tried really REALLY hard not to use it!

I hope you'll join us this week. You can read all the details at the FBW Blog. Be sure to see what the fabulous DT has come up with - you won't be disappointed!! Thanks for stopping by!

Watering My Garden

2011-04-12T02:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another Softpencil Tuesday! Today we are showcasing the new digital stamp called Watering My Garden. Things are starting to bloom around here. I've seen some tulips so Spring must be here! Thank goodness...I was really getting worried that it would never come! Now that the weather is improving, I'm hoping to get my garden going soon. I want to have flowers everywhere and a vegetable garden. Oh and I need bird feeders as well...gotta see and hear my birds. This is such a fun image to color. I tried coloring another background on this one. Whatcha think? I used an old Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge for the layout (SSSC111). Want to see more of the Garden collection - just visit the Softpencil blog. Remember you can even get this image on clothes, as an art print or even as stickers! Thanks for stopping by!

Easter Weekend Continues - Easter Basket Bonanza Blog Hop!

2011-04-10T11:00:00.001-05:00

I'm back - with my Easter basket creation! I found this tutorial on SCS and just had to try it. The Angel Company has some AWESOME products that were just perfect for making this little cutie!! This is the front of the basket. I used the stamp sets T-3304 Easter Bunny and R-2014 Hoppity Skippity. The Easter Bunny was holding an Easter egg. To change it I cut out the Easter egg and backed it with some ivory cardstock. This way he looks like he has a different color belly. I then colored the carrot with my Copics, cut it out and then placed it in the bunny's hands. I added just a little detail to the Bunny using my Copics. I like baskets with long handles. Not sure why might have something to do with being able to fit more loot in the basket :D I just cut some brown cardstock and adhered it to my basket using some hardware. Let's talk about the fence...Sands of Time paper was PERFECT for it. Doesn't it look awesome? LOVE how it turned out!! The basket is full of chocolate carrots.

I had some trouble finding those so let me just tell you I found them at Walgreens. AND this week they are on sale (they are kind of expensive...but oh so cute!)

So whatcha think? I'm planning on making a few more - especially since the chocolate is on sale this week! I hope you find some time to join us - you can create ANY Easter creation. We'd love to see them! I know I could use all the Easter ideas I can get! You can visit the Savvy Projects Blog for all the details!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Please note all supplies are from The Angel Company. You can visit my website to purchase any of the supplies. If you have any questions be sure to email me!

It's A Weekend Full of Easter Projects!!

2011-04-09T00:30:00.001-05:00

Hello fellow friends! How are you? Thanks for stopping by today as I have a card I think is absolutely adorable! I'm using one of Mabelle's fabulous Digi's - Springtime Basket Bunny. So cute right? It's funny how when I see bunnies and cats I always think they need to be white. I'm sure it has something to do with the fact that my pet cat is pure white :D On this card I definitely used colors - and I tried not to go too pastel.

I also had to go pretty girly on this one...seeing how it will be for my daughter! I used an old Sweet Stop Sketch - it was perfect to showcase the beautiful digi!

So are you done with your Easter projects yet? No - well then you NEED to get this digi for some of your projects! Head over to the Whimsy and Stars Studio to get Springtime Basket Bunny now.

And be sure to stop by tomorrow as I'll have another Easter creation. This weekend The Angel Company is having their Easter Basket Bonanza Blog Hop. We are looking for all those Easter creations...and I have an Easter Basket to show you that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE. My hubby even said "oh wow now that's cool" Well if he's impressed it must be something, lol! Anyway, see you tomorrow!

Flutter By Wednesday #149

2011-04-06T17:00:00.001-05:00

Whew...I may be a few hours late but it's still Wednesday and that in itself is an accomplishment, lol! I'm not sure what is going on but I'm in a serious funk...not just with my creating but with everything! It's been really tough but I'm working through it. Anyway, this week FBW is being sponsored by Just Some Lines They have some cute digi's! And you could win a gift certificate for some. Just play along - anything goes as long as it's NEW and you include a fairy, butterfly or angel on your creation! We were given a few digi's to work with and I decided to use Emo Angel3. I love how she has her own flutter by with her :D Not sure what I was thinking today...I just started coloring and orange and purple came along. After I got down I was like ummm it's not Halloween! How in the world am I going to make this work! So I went digging in my paper bins and found some Chatterbox paper to use

Even with the black cardstock I don't think Halloween so it's all good :D I think it's kind of nice to have a card that focuses on purple for once. Seems like I haven't done that in a while!

So whatcha think? I hope you'll join us this week. Stop by the Flutter By Blog for all the details! Oh and before I forget, Beate Johns, is our guest designer this week! How cool is that?!?! She is so freakin' creative! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her work! Thanks so much for stopping by!