Meljen's Designs Sketch Challenge

Before I get rolling with my post, let me apologize in advance if my post looks a little strange today. Blogger has been driving me crazy during the last several days by either removing my line breaks and adding extra line breaks where they don't belong. Since it is getting late on Wednesday night and I am trying one last time to fix up my post, I'm crossing my fingers and hoping for the best.

Now back to our regularly scheduled programming....

It's Thursday so it's time for the Meljen's Designs new release and new challenge. DT member Diana Kronquist created a great sketch for us to use in our challenge this week. For my card, I used the new Victorian Bird Cage image paired up with my favorite October Afternoon papers.

Here is a look at the sketch for the challenge this week. You can see the challenge rules and link up your project on the Meljen's Designs blog.

Here is a peek at the new release. These will be available in the Whimsy Stamps store today.

Don't forget to come by tomorrow for the Meljen's Designs 1st Birthday blog hop and the Whimsy Stamps new digital release blog hop. As with most blog hop, there are prizes involved, but you have to stop back tomorrow to get the details.

Thank you for stopping by!

Supplies:

• Stamps: Victorian Bird Cage by Meljen's Designs on Whimsy Stamps
  
• Papers & CS: Neenah Crest solar white CS, Papertrey kraft CS, PaperStudio black CS, October Afternoon Thrift Shop paper pad
  
• Inks: None
  
• Tools: Sewing machine, Copic markers
  
• Embellishments: The Twinery charcoal bakers twine, misc buttons, misc. red felt from Hobby Lobby, Sakura gold glitter pen, Close to my heart Stardust Glitz

Challenges:

• Alphabet Challenge - Up in the Air
  
• Creative Belli Challenge - Sewing
  
• Double Dutch - Something old (papers), something new (image), something borrowed (the sketch and felt from a friend), something blue (blue copic marker used for shading)
  
• Iris' Spot - 2 or more DP
  
• Paper Cutz - 3 DP
  
• Paper Playtime - Anything goes with a digi

Cute & Cuddly (Part 2)

Our Sentimental Sundays challenge this week is "Cute & Cuddly". I made 2 cards for the challenge this week. You saw the first one on Sunday and this is the 2nd one I made using up scraps and pieces on I had on my desk. ' ll

Using a pre-colored digi from Doodle Pantry made throwing this card together a snap. The best part is that I have another card for my OWH box. My box is almost full and will soon be mailed!

I also have some fun stuff coming up on my blog. On April 1st, there will be 2 blog hops. The first is to celebrate Meljen's Designs 1st birthday and the second is to show off the new digital releases at Whimsy Stamps. Make sure you stop to check out the hops. Like all hops, there will be prizes sprinkled along the way.

I will have a fun announcement in April for a GRAND OPENING on April 15th of something super cool. Stay tuned for this. I am dying to let the cat out of the bag but I have to wait. I can't wait to tell you all.

Thank you for dropping by! I hope you will come back for some of the fun events coming up.

Supplies

• Stamps: Bunny Friends with Bunny (precolored digi) from the Doodle Pantry, Ticket Sentiments from Raindrop Echo Designs on Whimsy Stamps
  
• Inks: Close To My Heart chocolate ink
  
• Papers: PaperTrey white CS, Neenah Crest solar white CS, Stampin' Up Bashful Blue CS & Bella Bird CS
  
• Tools: Sewing Machine, Big Shot, PaperTrey Victorian Lace, Beautiful Blooms II #1 & Banner Basics die
  
• Embellishments: Starbucks coffee sleeve, Liquid Pearls Opal, Paper, Hug Snug seam binding

Challenges:

• Delightful Challenges - Pastels + ribbon


• Ginger Loft - Dies cuts or punches
  
• Totally Paper Crafts - Cute & Cuddly
  
• Wee Memories - Anything Goes

Secret, Secret, I gotta Secret!

It is so HARD to keep a secret! I can't wait to share with you what else I have been up to! I can't spill the beans just yet, but I can say that it is gonna be BIG and I am thrilled that I am able to be a part of it. Keep checking in though because there WILL be free stuff involved! Who doesn't love free stuff! Remember, you heard about it here first! I'll start posting some sneak peaks soon!

Sentimental Sundays Cute & Cuddly

It's time for a new Sentimental Sundays challenge. This week our challenge is "Cute & Cuddly". Don't forget a sentiment! We also have a special guest designer joining our team this week. My 9-year old daughter has joined the fun. Please stop by her blog to check out her project (and leave a comment. She loves them!)




I made this flower using some old fabric and tulle that I found in the basement. The tulle is pink and was left over from a princess birthday party for my daughter from several years ago. I was inspired by this tutorial from Linda, the Funkie Junkie. The textured, brown piece was punched out of a Starbucks coffee sleeve. I love the texture of these things.

Thank you for stopping by! Don't forget to join in the Sentimental Sundays "Cute & Cuddly" challenge. The challenge is being sponsored by Heart Song Designs. Stop by the blog to see all the lovely creations from the DT and to get the challenge details.

Supplies:

• Stamps: Garden Bun Bun Fairy by Meljen's Designs & Garden Bun Bun Sentiments from Raindrop Echo Designs (Both available on Whimsy Stamps)
• Inks: None
• Papers: PaperTrey white CS, Neenah Crest solar white CS, Stampin' Up Bashful Blue CS & Bella Bird CS
• Tools: Sewing Machine, Big Shot, PaperTrey Victorian Lace, Beautiful Blooms II #1 & Banner Basics die, Copic Markers
• Embellishments: Starbucks coffee sleeve, pink tulle, white linen, LuminArte Icicles, Liquid Pearls Opal, Paper Studio brad, Prismacolor white pencil

Challenge:

• 2 Sisters Challenge - Make your own embellishments
• ABC Challenge - q=quilting or stitching
• By the Cute & Girlie - Spring
• Card Makin' Mamas - Animals
• Catered Crop - Striped DP, pearls, flowers, border punch, sewing, spring
• Crafty Creations - In Stitches
• Creative Card Crew - no rubber stamps
• Creative Cottage - Spring has sprung
• Creative Stamp Friends - Spring
• Dare to Be Sassy - Flowers
• Delicious Doodles - Floral Fantasy
• Etsy Inspired - Inspired by the flowers on this necklace by FreshMetal's shop
• Fairy Fun Friday - Spring
• Fresh Designs - reuse or repurpose items from around the house (fabric, tulle, starbucks sleeve)
• Scrap Creations - Spring
• Hanna & Friends - Spring
• One Stop Craft Challenge - Angels or Faires (used Garden Fairy Bun Bun image)
• Paper Crafting Journal - Up in the air
• Paper Cutz - 3 DP's
• Paper Pretties - Spring
• Pattie's Creations - Flowers & Pearls
• Phindy's Place Challenge - Animals
• Sew Many - Spring
• Stamp & Create - Spring
• Stamp Something - Spring
• Sugar Creek Hollow - Stitching

Music Saves My Soul

I have been on a Grace Potter kick this week. Grace Potter and the Nocturals has been one of my favorite groups for the last several years.

I couldn't decide which songs to share this week, so I picked two. The first is one that makes me want to move and my Jazzercise friends should recognize it. (If it makes you want to dance, come join us in class!) The second song is much slower but shows off her beautiful voice and song writting abilities.

If you have a song you would like to share, link up on Marcea's blog!

Have a great week end!








P.S. If you liked those two, HERE you can see the video for "Paris" which is starting to get some air play and I even heard in a commercial.

Warm Fuzzies

I am soooo ready for spring. I thought we were on our way. The robins and blue birds are back. Some of the trees are starting to bud. And then the temperatures dropped and *gasp* we even got a little bit more snow. I know, I know.... I should be used to it living in Wisconsin but what can I say? I was really hoping that winter was gone for awhile.

To remind myself that spring is right around the corner, I decided to make a card using some spring colors and this adorable caterpillar. I usually am not a big fan of caterpillars, but there is just something about this one that I love.

This little guy is no longer available in the Whimsy Store but you can find lots of other delightful rubber and digi stamps there.

I hope you have a wonderful week end. Thank you for stopping by.


Supplies:

• Stamps: Warm Fuzzies from Bug Hugs Creations on Whimsy Stamps
• Papers: Papertrey white & ripe avocado CS, My Mind's Eye Pretty Please papers
• Inks: None
• Tools: Big Shot, Spellbinders Lotus Border Petites, Big Scalloped Circles & Pose-Abilities Daisy Heads, Copic Markers
• Embellishments: Hug Snug Seam Binding, misc felt (from Hobby Lobby), Memories Mist Merlot, Maya Mists pink mist

Challenges:

• Aly's Sunday Challenge - Happy Spring
• CES Challenge - Inspired by Song (The Caterpillar by the Cure)
• Crafty Pad - Use a digi
• Creative Card Crew - No rubber stamps
• Creative Cottage - Spring has Sprung
• Dare to Be Sassy - Flowers
• Digi Doodles Shop Best - Ribbon & Bows
• Gingerloft - Die cuts and/or punches
• Glenda's Random Amusing Challenge- More than 1 punch or die cut
• Scrap Creations - Spring
• Hand Stamped Sentiments - Blooming blossoms
• Little Claires - Pink & Green
• Paper Pretties - Spring
• Stamp & Create - spring
• Stampin' with the Dragon - Spring
• Stamps R Us - Spring
• Wags N Whiskers - Spring
• Wild Orchid - Dieing to Punch it out
• Scrapbook Sisters - Anything goes
• Delicious Doodles - floral fantasy
• Sew Many - Spring Fling
• Stamp Something - Spring Somethings

You're a Hoot!

Happy Thursday! How is your week going? All week I have had the feeling that I am forgetting something. I keep checking my calendar and I look clear but I have that nagging feeling.... I guess I'll see what pops up.







I am trying to stock up on boyish/masculine cards to send into OWH. (I am still working hard to fill my box and get it sent!) I used Fuzzy Owl from Meljen's Designs (on Whimsy Stamps) to make a campy/boyish birthday card.

I have liked this image ever since it came out but, for some reason, I have never used him. Well, I guess there is no time like the present. I was especially inspired to put him on card since I just watched the movie "Legends of the Guardians" with my family. Have you seen it? We enjoyed it and really liked the educational bit about owls included on the disc.

Be sure to stop by the Meljen's Designs blog to see the new releases for the week and join in our "Be Creative with your Punches" challenge. Here is a preview of the new digis. You can see the projects some of the DT created with the new images on the Meljen's Designs blog.

Stay tuned for more information on a blog hop starting on April 1st to celebrate the 1st birthday of Meljen's Designs. As always, there will be chances for you to win some Meljen's Designs digis. Watch for more information soon.

Thank you for stopping by!


Supplies:

• Stamps: Fuzzy Owl from Meljen's Designs available on Whimsy Stamps
• Papers & CS: PaperTrey kraft CS, Neenah Crest CS, October Afternoon Campfire & Fly a Kite paper packs, Bazzil Basics green CS
• Inks: Distress Ink in Antique Linen
• Tools: Sewing machine
• Embellishments: Natural Jute Ribbon from Really Reasonable Ribbon, blue & white bakers twine, misc brads & button

Challenges:

• ABC DT challenge - Happy Birthday
• Alphabet Challenge - Trees (on my DP)
• Birthday Sundaes - Anything goes Birthday
• Card Makin' Mamas - Animals
• Card Making Fairy's Digi Day - Back to Nature
• Catered Crop - recipe (I used striped paper, the colors of blue, green, brown, & sewing
• CES Challenge - inspired by song (Take to the Sky by Owl City)
• Cooking it up with Katie - recipe: Animal, color, buttons
• Crafty Creations - In Stitches
• Crafty Pad - use a digi
• Crafty Purple Frog - Going Green
• Creative Card Crew - no rubber stamps
• Digital Tuesday - Buttons
• Everybody Art Challenge - Birthday
• Fresh Brewed Challenges - 2 or more embellie (Brads [3], button, jute ribbon, bakers twine)
• Gimme a Break - Birthday
• One Stitch At A Time - for the boys
• Paper Crafting Journey - Up in the air
• Paper Cutz - Anything Goes
• Pattie's Creations - go green
• Pear Tree Designs - Birthday
• Really Reasonable Ribbon - one for the boys
• Sisterhood of Crafters - let's hear it for the boys
• Sugar Creek Hollow - anything goes (comment with email)
• Whimsie Wednesday Challenge - sentiment banner
• Scrapbook Sisters - anything goes
• Pixie Dust Studio - Let's go to the movies (Inspired by "Legends of the Guardians")

Amber Ink - Passing the Torch

I can't believe it is that time already. My month as the orange torch bearer for Amber Ink has just flown by. Now it is time for me to pass my Amber Ink torch on to the next person. Anita Madden of Just A Pigment of My Imagination will be running with the orange torch for the next month. If you do not know Anita, I encourage you to check out her blog. Her beautiful projects always blow me away. Seriously, go check out her blog.

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Following, you can see all hand offs of the Amber Ink torches:

BLUE:
From Keva Brown @ http://hownowbrownkow.blogspot.com/ to Amy Everson @ http://www.tandames.blogspot.com/

PINK:
From Sue Cooper @ http://scoopysstuff.blogspot.com/ to Mandi Moore @ http://enchantedoccasions.blogspot.com/


BROWN:
From Jen Lee @ http://www.myscrappychic.com/ to
Tammy Hellstern @ http://scrappinwithtammy.blogspot.com/


ORANGE: (this is me)
From Cheryl Gorka @ http://shestamps.blogspot.com/ to
Anita Madden @ http://anitasdesigns.blogspot.com/


PURPLE:
From Allison Fillo @ http://stampinwhenican.blogspot.com/ to
Jana Weaver @ http://stampwithjana.blogspot.com/


This is a recap of my projects over the last month. And I need your help....

...I need to send in one project to Amber to use for trade shows, conventions, etc. but for some reason I just cannot decide which one to send. I thought I would let my blog readers vote to decide which card to send in. So if the voting gadget works, you should see a poll below. Please vote for your favorite Amber Ink card from the ones above and I will send the winner into to Amber.

Thank you to Amber and Pam for allowing me the opportunity to be a torch bearer. I really enjoyed it. They are wonderful to work with and have an amazing sense of humor and fun.

Thank you so much for stopping by today! Please give Anita a warm welcome to the Amber Ink team. I can't wait to see her creations over the next month.

Sentimental Sundays - Let's Get Sentimental

Wow this week has flown by! I can't believe it is already time for the new Sentimental Sundays challenge. This week we are challenging you to "Get Sentimental" with us. Use a sentiment as a focal point for your project.

I love cards that use a sentiment for a focal point. I used a sentiment from the Gratitude Sentiments digital stamp set created by Raindrop Echo Designs (available on Whimsy Stamps). Verve Sketch VLVMar2011 (week 3) was the starting point for my card. Cream seam binding was dyed using an ink pad to match my papers. In real life, it is the exact color but the color changes a bit in the photo.

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I hope you will join for our "Let's Get Sentimental" challenge at the Sentimental Sundays Challenge blog.

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Thank you for stopping by!

Supplies:

• Stamps: Gratitude Sentiments by Raindrop Echo Designs available on Whimsy Stamps
• Papers & CS: PaperTrey kraft CS, Close To My Heart Perfect Day paper pack
• Inks: Close To My Heart Sorbet ink (for dying the seam binding)
• Tools: Sewing Machine, Stampin' Up edge punch, Martha Stewart leaft punch, 1" circle punch (for flower base)
• Embellishments: Tattered Angels pearl glimmer mist, PaperStudio pearls, Hug Snug cream seam binding

Challenges:

• Dare to Be Sassy - Make your own embellishment
• Digi Doodles Shop Best - Anything Goes
• Do You Stack Up - Add a bow
• Little Miss Muffet Challenge - Brads, pearls or gems
• Paper Cutz - Anything Goes
• Res-Q - Be a surgeon
• Sugar Creek Hollow - Anything goes
• Terrifically Thrilling Thursday - Anything Goes

Music Saves My Soul

It's time for our weekly music blog hop hosted by Marcea. If you would like to play along with us, link up on Marcea's blog.

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This song always makes me dance around when it is. This is the first time I saw the video. I can't say I like it but I still love the song.

Thank you for stopping by! Have a great weekend!

Meljen's Designs - Feeling A Bit Dotty

Spring is coming! Melissa of Meljen's Designs is getting us in the spring mood with some new little baby bunnies!! These are just the sweetest, cutest, cuddliest little loves ever! I just know you're going to love them!

I used Cuddle Bun Love to make a card to welcome a baby girl. I have the sentiment "Welcome Sweet Baby" on the inside because I just couldn't fit on the front.

Have you noticed all the stitching on my cards lately. I am really loving my new little sewing machine. But, let me let you in on a little secret. I sewed the front of the card to the card base. Not only that but I sewed the card closed. No wonder the needle didn't seem to want to go through. I guess 4 layers of PTI card stock might be a bit much for my cheap little machine. Never fear, I made a new base to put my card front on. Of course I might need a second mortgage on my house to pay for postage.....

Here is a peek at all the images release this week. They are perfect for the new Meljen's Designs Challenge, "Use Dots".

Thank you for stopping by! Happy Friday and have a great week end!

Supplies:

• Stamps: Cuddle Bun Love by Meljen's Designs on Whimsy Stamps
• Papers & CS: Neenah crest solar white CS, Georgia Pacific CS, Graphic 45 Baby 2 Bride, misc. brown CS
• Inks: None
• Tools: Sewing machine, Copic markers
• Embellishments: Hug Snug cream seam binding, Liquid Pearls, white Fun Flock, misc pink trim (RAK from Scrap It Girl)

Challenges:

• 2 Sisters Challenge - Oh Baby
• Card Makin' Mamas - Animals
• Crafty Sentiments - Animals
• Digi Doodle's Shop Best - Anything Goes
• Do You Stack Up - Add a bow
• Scrap Creations - Anything Goes
• Little Claires - Flowers
• Terrifically Thrilling Thursday - Anything Goes

Pink Cat Studio - Baby Love

I was so excited when Melissa of Pink Cat Studio asked me to be a guest designer for the new release this week. The Gnome family has a new addition, Bibi.


I chose to use the Gnome couple with baby. Aren't they just the cutest? I plan on giving this card to my DD's teacher when she has her baby. Since we don't know if it is a boy or a girl, I tried to keep the card kind of gender nuetral. (**Edited - She had a baby boy last night!)

Here is a peek at the entire release of the gnome family and their newest addition. Aren't they cute?

Be sure to stop by the Pink Cat Studio blog to see all the creations from the PCS design team.

Thank you for stopping by!

Supplies:

• Stamps: Gnome Couple with Baby from Pink Cat Studios, Bundle of Joy sentiments from Raindrop Echo on Whimsy Stamps
• Papers & CS: Neenah Crest solar white CS, PaperTrey white CS, Close To My Heart Cherry-O paper pack
• Inks: None
• Tools: Sewing Machine, Copic markers, Stampin' Up edge punch, Big Shot, Spellbinders nestabilities
• Embellishments: Stampin Up Certainly Celery satin ribbon, Twinery bakers twine, misc. button & eyelet trim

Challenges:

• 2 Sisters - Oh Baby
• Clear It Out - Buttons (Used old DP, button, & eyelet)
• Digital Tuesday - It's a magical world (Gnomes)
• Digi Doodle Shops Best - Anything Goes
• Scrap-Creations - Anything Goes
• Paper Take Weekly - Trio-tastic (3 DP, 3 Gnomes)
• Stamp N Doodle - "G" embellishments (Green Ribbon)

Whimsy Stamp Sneak Peek

Today I have a sneak peek of one of the new rubber stamps from Crissy Armstrong that will be released at Whimsy Stamps tomorrow! To celebrate the release, there will be a blog hop with prizes starting at the Whimsy Inspiration blog on Wednesday, March 16th, at noon EST. You won't want to miss it!

For my card today, I used Benny & Joon Have Cake by Crissy Armstrong. I just love this fawn and bunny, they remind me of Bambi and Thumper. It took me a few tries to get the image colored how I wanted. I'm still in the learning curve with Copic markers, but I am pretty happy with the way it turned out. (Did you see it was used for the blog hop button? I know it's not much but it made me really happy!)

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Remember to stop by the Whimsy Inspiration blog tomorrow to get all the information and jump in on the blog hop. Whimsy will be releasing 4 rubber stamps from Crissy Armstrong, 2 rubber stamps from Meljen's Designs, 4 rubber stamps from Kenny K, 3 rubber stamp sets from Raindrop Echo Designs and 2 dies/sets from from Raindrop Echo Designs.

Thank you for stopping by!

Supplies:

• Stamps: Benny & Joon Have Cake by Crissy Armstrong available on Whimsy Stamps


• Papers & CS: Papertrey white & dark chocolate CS, My Mind's Eye Quite Contrary Little Miss Muffet collection, misc. mulberry CS


• Inks: None


• Tools: Sewing machine, Stampin' Up edge punch, Creative Memories 1-1/2 inch circle punch, Copic markers


• Embellishments: Hug Snug seam binding, Tatered Angles pearl glimmer mist, Adorn It Tiny Etched Natural alphabet stickers

Challenges:

• ABC DT Challenge - Happy Birthday


• AUD Sentiments - Birthday


• Catered Crop - Bunny, flowers, copic markers, ribbon, high lighting around image


• Craft Us Crazy - Nature


• Cutie Sunday - Favorite Color Combo


• Do You Stack Up - Layers


• Fairy Fun Fridays - Birthday


• Fun with Shapes - Happy Birthday


• Paper Pretties - Ribbon


• Simon Says Stamp - Anything Goes


• Sugar Creek Hollow - Handmade flowers (leave comment with email)


• Sundays with Crissy - stitching

AmberInk - Fan Mail

Awww, I'm feeling kind of sad. This is my last project for my term as an Amber Ink torchbearer. I know I will still be using their fun images and papers but it just won't be the same. On Friday, March 17th, I'll recap my Amber Ink projects and the following Monday the new torchbearers will be announced.







This is another card that I made for Operation Write Home. I am really working on getting my box filled so I can ship it out soon. I had to use Mod Kitch Kitsch and Say It Like It's 1959!. These sets are so perfectly punny - I love them! If you aren't comfortable using digi stamps, they also come in clear stamp sets.

Before I go today, I wanted to tell you about a new line of digi stamps on Amber Ink. The line is called "Get Them While They're Hot - Sheen On" It is a line of sentiments inspired by Charlie Sheen and his recent rants. I soooo wanted to make a card with one this week end but I ran out of time. Go check them out HERE.

Thanks for stopping by today! Have a great week!





Supplies:

• Stamps: Mod Kitch Kitsch and Say It Like It's 1959! from AmberInk, It's Official from PaperTrey
• Papers & CS: Georgia Pacific CS, PaperTrey kraft CS, October Afternoon Schoolhouse DP, misc. orange
• Inks: Distress Inks in Antique Linen & Tea Dye, Close to My Heart Indian Corn Blue
• Tools: Sewing machine, Big Shot, Provocraft Seeing Spots embossing folder, EK Success edge punch, Cutter Bee perforating tool, Copic markers
• Embellishments: PaperTrey bakers twine, misc. button & brads

Challenges:

• CES challenges - For men only
• The Crafty Pad - Buttons
• Creative Card Crew - No flowers
• Moving Along with the Times - for a male
• Simon Say Stamp - Anything Goes
• That's Krafty Thursday - kraft CS

Feeling Green

It's time for the new Sentimental Sunday's challenge. This week we are challenging you to "Go Green!" You can interpret however you feel, St. Patrick's day, the color green, or even recycling, but be sure to include a sentiment.

I decided to make a card for St. Patrick's day using a new, precolored digi from Meljen's Designs and a sentiment from Raindrop Echo Designs. Using a precolored digi made putting a card together really quick. These papers are out of my stash. I bought them a few years ago when a local scrapbooking store went out of business and they have just been sitting there waiting to be used.




I am looking forward to making my Guinness-Braised Beef Brisket & Quick Cook Cabbage and cracking open a Guinness while listening to my Celtic playlist on Thursday. What do you do for St. Patrick's day?

I hope you will join us in the "Go Green!" challenge at Sentimental Sundays. Thank you for stopping by!





Supplies:

• Stamps: Shamrock Bear (colored) by Meljen's Designs, Luck Sentiments from Raindrop Echo Designs (both available on Whimsy Stamps)
• Papers & CS: PaperTrey white cs, Georgia Pacific cs, Bazzill Basics Carob Cream, Karen Foster Design Celtic Knots, My Mind's Eye Signature Suite Textured Lime & Bohemia Textured Green
• Inks: None
• Tools: Sewing machine, Big Shot, Spellbinders Nestabilities
• Embellishments: Sakura gellyroll glitter pens in clear, gold & olive, Close To My Heart Stardust glitter gel, dew drops

Challenges:

• AI Factory - Luck of the Irish
• All Sorts Challenge - Luck O' the Irish
• Card Makin' Mama's - Something Green
• Clear It Out - Anything Goes
• Corrosive Challenge - Green
• Craft Your Passion - Anything Goes
• Crafty Ho's - St. Pats
• Creative Card Crew - no flowers
• Delicious Doodles - Green for St. Pats
• Do You Stack Up? - Layers
• Easy Craft Projects - Green
• Fashionista Friday - St. Pats
• Scrap Creations - Go Green
• Hand Stamped Sentiments - Go Green
• Lil Red Wagon - Green
• Paper Play Challenges - Green/Good Luck
• Pattie's Creations - Go Green
• Penny's Paper Crafty challenge - going for the green
• Sew Many - St. Pats
• Shelly's Images - Something Green
• Simon Says Stamp - anything goes
• Simply Create - a little monochrome
• Sisterhood of Crafters - St. Pats
• Stampin' Royalty - Go Green for St. Pats
• Stampin' with the Dragon - St. Pat's
• Whimsie Doodles - Glitter (on shamrock and coins)

Music Saves My Soul

This week I have another Irish influenced band that I wanted to share for St. Patrick's day. This is one of my favorite bands to see each year at Milwaukee's Irish Fest.

I apologize for the sound quality. I had a hard time finding a video to post.

I just stumbled across this and had to add it.





If you would like to play along, link up your song at Marcea's blog.

Just a Note

I am trying to make more cards for Operation Write Home (OWH). I keep a box in my craft area for OWH. Once I have if filled, I ship it off. I thought this little mouse from Meljen's Designs would make a good "Any Occasion" card for OWH.

Don't forget to stop by the Meljen's Designs blog to see the new St. Patrick's themed digital stamps released yesterday or to enter our "Green" challenge.

I don't have a lot of chit chat today. It has been a busy week. Thank you for stopping by!



Supplies:

• Stamps: Penpal Mouse by Meljen's Designs on Whimsy Stamps, It's Official by PaperTrey
• Papers: CS: Georgia Pacific CS, BasicGrey Hopscotch paper pad
• Ink: Versa Mark, Close To My Heart chocolate ink
• Tools: Sewing machine, Big Shot, PaperTrey ric rak die, EK Success edge punch, Spellbinders Nestabilities, Close To My Heart edge distressing tool
• Embellishments: Felt from Hobby Lobby, misc. brads, Glossy Accents

Challenges:

• Catch the Bug - Anything goes
• Craft Your Passion - Anything goes
• Creative Belli - Animals (used old stash of brads, felt, and some paper scraps. )
• Creative Card Crew - No flowers
• Do You Stack Up - layers
• Flourishes - Cut above challenge
• Paper Playtime - Anything goes with a digi
• Simon Says Stamp - Anything goes

Amber Ink - Lucky Little Lady Bug

This lucky little lady bug
has landed here to stay
To make my garden pretty
and keep the weeds away.
~Author Unknown

This little poem made me think of this cute little lady bug from Amber Ink. She is part of the Wild Animals With Heart series.

This week Amber Ink is sponsoring the CASE Study challenge. I was inspired by the card layout. Head over to the CASE Study blog to check out the challenge details.

Thank you for stopping by!



Supplies:

• Stamps: WAWH - Lady Bug by Amber Ink
• Papers & CS: Georgia Pacific CS, Close To My Heart Sofia paper pack
• Inks: Stampin' Up White craft ink
• Tools: Sewing machine, Big Shot, Spellbinders Nestabilities, Martha Stewart edge punch
• Embellishments: Twinery baker's twine, misc. buttons & ribbon, Ranger Distress paint in old paper

Challenges:

• CASE Study - inspired by card lay out
• Alota Rubber challenge - bugs
• Alphabet Challenge - ribbons
• Card Makin' Mama's - something green
• Catch the Bug - anything goes
• Corrosive Challenge - green
• Craft Your Passion - anything goes
• Crafty Calendar - spring
• Crafty Pad - ribbon
• Crafty Purple Frog - things with wings
• Easy Craft Projects - green
• For Fun - spring
• Fresh Brewed - 3 or more DP
• Fresh Brewed monthly challenge - Pink and paper pieced
• Lollipop Crafts - critters
• Paper Crafting Journey - things with wings
• Paper Playtime - anything goes with a digi
• Paper Pretties - ribbon
• Penny's Paper Crafty challenge - going for the green
• Pixie Dust Studio - polka dots
• Really Reasonable Ribbon - green
• Simon Says Stamp - anything goes
• Stamp & Create - spring
• Stamp Something - digi day

Amber Ink - Deer Friend & Blog Hop Candy Winner

I have another Amber Ink project to share with you today. I'm posting this a little early because I have to travel for work tomorrow and I won't get a chance to get on line. I know I can schedule a post but I just wanted to get it done now to make sure I don't have any Blogger issues.

This sweet little deer is part of the Wild Animal With Heart (WAWH) series. When you purchase this image, it comes two ways. It comes as you see it here and also with hearts (where I put the spots). Sooo cute and versatile!

Now, down to the important stuff. Who is the winner of the Bunny Hug image provided by Amber Ink during the OWH blog hop? I won't make you wait any longer...

Okay, maybe just a little bit longer.....

Just kidding....

The winner is....

#7 - Seongsook Duncan

Congratulations Seongsook! Please email me at shestamps11-blogs at yahoo dot com to claim your Bunny Hug digital image. If you were not the winner but really like the Bunny Hug image, you can find it in the Amber Ink store.

Thank you to every one that stopped by my blog during the Operation Write Home bunny hop. I really enjoyed reading all your comments. If you didn't hop with us, you still have time to visit all the projects and sign up for chances to win candy at some of the other stops. You can get more information on the hop from THIS post.

I can't believe this is the fourth of my six projects as an Amber Ink torchbearer. The time is just flying by. You will get to meet the new torchbearers on March 21. Until then I have a couple more projects to share with you but you'll have to come back to see them.

Have a great day!

Supplies:

• Stamps: WAWH - Sleeping Fawn by Amber Ink
• Papers & CS: PaperTrey kraft CS, Neenah Crest solar white CS, Jillibean Soup Dutch Mustard Soup DP
• Inks: Distress Inks Antique Linen
• Tools: Stampin' Up word window punch, Sewing maching, Copic markers
• Embellishments: Twinery Cappacinno bakers twine, Close To My Heart glitter glue, misc. button dew drops,& ribbon
• Other: Computer generated sentiment

Challenges:

• 4 Crafty Chicks - Stitching
• ABC DT challenge - Birthday
• Alphabet challenge - Ribbons
• AUD Sentiments - Birthday
• Catch the Bug - Anything Goes
• Catered Crop - Striped DP, Copic markers, digital image
• Charisma Cardz - 4-legged friends
• Craft Us Crazy - Nature
• Craft Your Passion - Anything Goes
• Crafty Ann's - Birthday
• Crafty Pad - Ribbon
• Crafty Sentiments - Birthdays
• Dutch Dare - Who's who in the zoo
• Fun with Shapes - Birthday
• Lollipop Crafts - Critters
• Paper Playtime - Anything goes w/a digi
• Paper Take Weekly - Anything goes
• Sarah Hurley - 4-legged friends
• Stamp Something -digi day
• That's Krafty Thursday - kraft paper (card base)
• There She Goes - kraft paper (card base)
• Wild Orchid - anything goes
  
  

Sentimental Sundays - Challenge 45 - Pearls & Lace

It's time for the new Sentimental Sunday's challenge. This week we are challenging you to use Lace & Pearls with a sentiment.




You can find the sentiment I used here in the Raindrop Echo Designs digi store at Whimsy Stamps.

Sorry, it's a short post today. Thank you for stopping by!

Supplies:

• Stamps: Gratitude Sentiments by Raindrop Echo Designs on Whimsy Stamps
• Inks: Distress inks in Antique Linen and Tea Dye
• Papers & CS: PaperTrey kraft & white CS, Georgia Pacific CS, PaperStudio black CS, October Afternoon Thrift Shop CS
• Tools: Sewing machine, Big Shot, Spellbinders Nestabilities
• Embellishments: Jenni Bowlin adhesive button, Kaiser gemstones, PaperStudio pearls, Hug Snug seam binding, misc. lace

Challenges:

• 4 Crafty Chicks - stitching
• Alphabet Challenge - R-ribbon
• Clear It Out challenge - anything goes (Everything used on this card was in my stash and is old)
• Critter Sketch Challenge - sentiment
• Fairy Fun Friday - Inspired by song (Kind & Generous by Natalie Merchant)
• Ladybugs Crafts Ink - Stitching
• Lil Red Wagon - Sentiment only
• Paper Play Challenge - Shabby Chic/ Vintage
• Paper Playtime - anything goes with a digi
• Papertake Weekly - anything goes
• Pear Tree Designs - ribbon
• Pixie Dust Studios - polka dots
• Raise the Bar - Just a sentiment
• Terrifically Thrilling Thursday - lots of layers
• Stamp Something - digi day
• Sunday's with Chrissy - stitching
• That's Krafty Thursday - kraft paper ( in the spellbinders die cut)
• Wild Orchid - anything goes
• Woodware USA - anything goes

OWH Bunny Hop with Amber Ink + Blog Candy

Welcome to my stop on the Bunny Hop for Operation Write Home. If you came from Velda's blog you're on the track. If you just came across the hop and would like to start at the beginning, the hop starts at the OWH Stars & Stamps blog where you can find all the blog hop details and complete list of all the stops. You will want to read to the bottom of my post to see how you can win some Amber Ink blog candy.

For my card, I decided to use Jen Del Muro's Sketch For You To Try (SFYTT) which is being sponsored by Amber Ink for the month of March.

I used Bunny Hug from Amber Ink. I think this is just the sweetest image which can be used for all kinds of occasions. I actually love the entire Bunny Love line. The the bunnies are colored with Copic makers with a little Fun Flock added to their tails. Of course I had to use October Afternoon papers. (I love OA!)

I hope you will get a chance to play along with SFYTT this month for your chance to win some Amber Ink product. See the SYTT blog for the details.

Remember, if you would like to send in cards to OWH for the spring holidays, there are a couple of deadlines you should keep in mind. The Easter deadline is March 18th and the Mother's Day deadline is March 31st. You can check the OWH Mail Room for more information on how to send in your cards.

If you have time, check out the blog comments from our heroes who have received cards from OWH. They truly appreciate the cards they are sent. I love reading these messages.

Your next stop on the OWH Bunny Hop is PAPER ADDICT CATHERINE. If you get lost along the way or if there is a broken link, you will be able to find the complete blog hop list on the OWH Stars & Stamps blog.

Now for the details on how to win the blog candy. I am being sponsored by Amer Ink today and will be giving away the digital image, Bunny Hug, that I used on my project today to one random commenter.

Here's what you need to do to win-

1) Stop by the Amber Ink store and pick out your favorite product. It can be any Amber Ink product - digi stamps, clear stamps, or ipaper.

2) Enter your name in the linky tool below. After your name, include the name of your favorite Amber Ink product. (i.e.: Cheryl - Bunny Hug) If you do not have your own blog address, you can use mine but be sure to leave a comment with your email so I can get a hold of you if you win.

3) Please leave me a comment. You don't have to in order to qualify for the candy drawing but I love getting them. :)

4) Entries will end Monday, March 7th, at 5 pm CST. I will announce the random winner on my Amber Ink Torch Bearer post on Tuesday, March 6th.

Thank you for stopping by! Have a great week end!

Supplies:

• Supplies: Bunny Love - Bunny Hug from Amber Ink
• Papers & CS: PaperTrey white CS, Neenah Crest solar white CS, Bazzill Basics CS, October Afternoon Day Dream & Detours CS
• Inks: none
• Tools: Sewing Machine, Stampin' Up scalloped edge, 1-1/4-inch circle, word window punches, Copic markers
• Embellishments: Hug Snug seam binding, Stampin' Up silver cord, misc. buttons, Fun Flock
• Other: Sentiment computer generated using Airplanes in the Night Sky free font

Challenges:

• Sketch For You To Try - March 2011 Sketch
• 4 Crafty Chicks - Stitching
• Charisma Crafts - 4-legged friends
• Creative Belli Challenge - Animals (old green CS, buttons, seam binding, and silver cord)
• Cutie Sunday - Favorite Stamp ( I think this is my new favorite digi)
• Delicious Doodles - make a card you would want to receive
• Dutch Dare - Furry friends
• Fairy Fun Fridays - inspired by song (Let's Pretend We're Bunny Rabbits by the Magnetic Fields)
• GingerLoft - Furry Friends
• I Did It Creations - Punches or Dies
• Iris' Spot - Buttons
• Ladybug Crafts Ink - Stitching
• Paper Play Time - Anything Goes with a digi
• Paper Take Weekly - Anything goes
• Pear Tree Designs - Ribbon
• Pixie Dust Studios - polka dots
• Sarah Hurley - four legged friends
• Stamp Something - digi day
• Sundays with Chrissy - Stitching
• Terrifically Thrilling Thursday - lots of layers
• Wild Orchid - Anything Goes

Music Saves My Soul

It's March! Spring is on the way (hopefully) and St. Patrick's day is right around the corner. It's time for me to share some of my favorite Celtic influenced music.

If you would like to share a song, link up on Marcea's blog.

Stop back later today for the OWH Bunny Hop. I'll have a chance for you to win an Amber Ink digi!