Celebration Moments

The final day - our 7th day of biking - C & O Canal Towpath

MEMORIES FROM THE TRAIL...

DAY TWO - CONNELLSVILLE, PA TO ROCKWOOD, PA.  - 47 MILES

DAY FIVE - HANCOCK TO SHEPHERDSTOWN - 51 MILES

DAY SIX - SHEPHERDSTOWN TO WHITE'S FERRY (LEESBURG) - 37 MILES

The Great Allegheny Passage - Western Maryland Rail Trail - C & O Canal Towpath Trail

We have been biking, biking and then biking a little more.  I have to say that today I'm finally tired.  I knew by this point we would be tired so I booked us into this wonderful B & B in Shepherdstown, West Viriginia for two nights.  The Thomas Shepherd Inn is located just off on the trail - over the Potomac.  

We are planning to leave Shepherdstown for the day and go back over the bridge to Marilyn and visit Antietam National Park.  Then spend the rest of the day checking out all the cute little shops in Shepherdstown.

What have we been up to:

Day one biking - McKeesport, PA to Connellsville, PA -  43 miles - GAP Trail (rain for 25 miles)

Day two biking - Connellsville, PA to Rockwood, PA - 47 miles - GAP Trail (uphill - pretty day)

Day three biking - Rockwood, PA to Cumberland, MD - 44 miles - GAP Trail/C & O Trail (perfect day - 16 miles downhill from Frostburg to Cumberland - did rain though-but the downhill was so wonderful it didn't matter!!)

Day four biking - Cumberland, MD to Hancock, MD - 60 miles - C & O/Western Western Maryland Connects Here

Day five biking - Hancock, MD to Shepherdstown, MD - 51 miles (another beautiful day)

The scenery has been spectacular - riding along the Potomac, the Trail Rails - being in awe of the canal - and the amount of work and cost of human lifes and tragedy that must have occured in it's creation.  This has been the "ride of our life's"

A Capitol Idea! ... day two in Washington D.C.

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Washington D.C. - day one

The stars were all aligned

1. Our tour for the Capitol was to start at 9:50. We were early so we got to go on the 8:50 Capitol Tour.

2. We then walked over to the Hart Building to get passes from Senator Sherrod Brown's office to tour the House and Senate floor.

3. While getting our tickets I asked if we could get in on the Senate Finance Committee meeting. YES. There were three seats left. The meeting was in progress. In the same building - on the second floor. Exciting!!!

4. We got into our seats just in time to hear Senator Rockefeller review his mark up for the public option for health care reform. It was like I stepped into C Span at the perfect moment. (unfortunately it didn't pass.)

5. Our luck continued as we heard Senator McCain speak on floor (didn't vote for him) and Senator Brown introduce their bills/agruments etc. Our political timing was perfect all day. Spent a little more time in the Capitol area then headed for the National Mall.

We just had to see the Dino Display for Joey. Took lots of pics to share with him. Also had to get Amelia something about the Sea. Still blogging from my IPhone. Sitting in Union Station waiting for our train to Connellsvillle PA.

What no WIFi!!

Who would have imagined that the Embassy Suites in D.C. would not have internet service in the rooms.

I'm creating this very short post with my IPhone.

We walked and walked and then walked a liitle more touring The Monuments in D.C. today. I have to say the Roosevelt Monument was the most moving to me. So many of his quotes are so very pertinent today. With this battle to pass an appropriate health care bill I believe that a lot of our representatives would be well served to visit this Memorial.

I have lots of photos to share but they'll have to wait until Wednesday night when we have wifi again. Tommorrow we are off to the Capitol. Rumor has it that a couple of our sane Senators are going to put the public option on the table during the Senate Finance hearing. Say a little prayer that their good sense prevails and we end up with a strong plan.

Received a wonderful Email from The Boys today saying what a wonderful time they are having at the Ultimutt Inn. This photo was included with the note.

Rain, rain go away ... come again another day! The Great Allegheny Passage

It was really funny riding down the trail in the rain today.  I had a huge smile on my face - filled with the excitement of the beginning of the trip.  As we passed other riders in the rain they were smiling too!  Was it because we were all insane enough to ride on this messy gravel trail as the rain pelted us in the face and the mud covered our bikes and gear.  NO!  It was because as we passed each other packed down with gear we all realized we were kindred spirits - on a mission - all on the same mission. 

Some were riding from Pittsburgh to D.C. some were riding from D.C. to Pittsburgh.  I'm LOL now - thinking of this one family we passed the mother of the group was packed down like a Llama climbing the mountains of Peru or maybe like an pack mule from an old Western movie. 

The 25 miles we rode in the rain were manageable - we had a goal to complete!  We started our ride in Connellsville, PA and rode to Boston, PA - covering 40.5 miles on our bikes.  We had a nice lunch in West Newton - a bowl of chili for me and a sandwich for Tom.

We are staying at the Uniontown, PA Hampton Inn this evening.  Heading to Washington D.C. tomorrow.

The journey begins...

Today is the first day of our 318 mile bike journey.  We are traveling on the Great Allegheny Passage then onto the C & O Canal Towpath - from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C.

The trip has been in the planning stage for nine months.  We started our so called "training" for the trip last April.  With a 200-mile round-trip trip between Gadsden, Alabama and Smyrna, Georgia.  We biked most weekends all summer and some days during the week.  As the summer progressed we gathered strength, more biking equipment and more traveling supplies to use on our journey.  Last July 22nd threw a little wrench into the works when I fell off my bike in New Paltz, New York and broke my wrist.

Ended up with a cast for four weeks, then a splint and some therapy.  I have a ways to go until I'm back to normal (that's funny - my normal that is) but patience and continued exercise on my wrist and then some more patience and I'll be good as new!!

We are spending our first night in Monroeville, PA at a Hampton Inn.  In the morning will be riding between Boston, PA and Connellsville, PA - total of 39 miles.  At this time the trail isn't connected to Pittsburgh yet - but eventually it will be.

Here is a link to the Great Allegheny Passage - this is our first leg of the trip.

Close To My Heart Stamp Of The Month

This is the September 2009 Close To My Heart Stamp Of The Month:

 

I love the words - I can see these words on scrapped pages and cards - just perfect.  Also love the airiness of the flowers - so many ideas come to mind.  Check out my Close To My Heart Online Store to see how you can get this stamp set for FREE or at a discount.  You'll also find lots of ideas for using this set on cards and scrapped pages - just click here... Shop online today - for Treasures September Stamp of the Month

Also don't miss you're opportunity to get the Every Day Celebration Card Kit for FREE!! Click here to find out how to puchase this fantastic kit or how to get the Every Day Celebration Card Kit for FREE!!  Every purchase automatically enters you into the Every Day Celebration Card Kit Contest!!

One more thing - check out Sudio "J" - it's an exciting new way to scrapbook using the same beautiful colors and papers you love from Close to my Heart....take a Studio "J" tour today.

Close To My Heart, Stampin' Up!, Spellbinder Nestabilities, Martha Stewart Punch, Cuttlebug

I have added the completed pages for the Growing Tree Workshop to the "All Scrapbook Club Members Blog" .  The link is in the right top sidebar under "Helpful Information" heading.  You do not need a password to access this blog.  There are directions listed under each page.  Plus you can click on the photo and it will enlarge so you can get a closer look!  If you have any questions please email me and I'll be happy to explain any part of the pages in more detail.

 

I HAVE ONE MORE KIT LEFT IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED IN PURCHASING IT.  THERE ARE A FEW SUPPLIES YOU WOULD NEED OF YOUR OWN - THESE ARE LISTED ON THE CLUB MEMBERS PAGE.  THE COST OF THE KIT IS WITH TAX IS $17.04 (CASH/PERSONAL CHECK/MONEY ORDER - NO CREDIT CARDS).  IF YOU WOULD LIKE THIS SHIPPED TO YOU  THE SHIPPING WOULD BE ACTUAL SHIPPING COST.

PROUCTS USED TO COMPLETE THE KIT:  Close To My Heart Sarsaparilla My Reflections Level 2 Paper Packet ,  Close To My Heart Ink Pads and Markers, Close To My Heart Waxy Flax, Close To My Heart Cardstock (12 X 12), Close To My Heart Bigger Brad and Eyelets, Close To My Heart Ribbon, Close To My Heart 3-D Foam Squares,  Stampin' Up! Stamps, Stampin Up! Chipboard (owl), Stampin' Up! Punches, Stampin' Up Ribbon, Stampin' Up! Craft Ink,  Cuttlebug Embossing Plate, Spellbinder Nestibilities Oval Templates, Martha Stewart Punch, Paint Pen and  Glitter Pen, Prickley Pear Word Stamp (page 3), Bling, Misc. Mix of chipboard letters, Misc. Mix of Buttons, Sponge, Paper Crimper, Glue Stick, Tape Runner

Catch the newest epidosde of Close To My Heart TV: A Sparkling Summer!

Growing Tree Workshop Supply List

I have one spot left for tonight or Tuesday morning from 8:30 to 12:00 AM - May 5th - OR - if you'd like to purchase the kit it is for sale for the class price of $16.00.  Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight!!!  Linda

1.  Basic Scrapping Supplies (small craft scissors)

2. 3D Foam Squares, Glue Dots and Glue Stick (I have foam squares & glues sticks for sale)

3.  Rhinestones

4.  Chipboard Letters to spell LIFE & PLAY (I have some for sale)

5.  Paper Piercer and Mat (I have for you to share)

6.  Chocolate Ink Pad and Sponge (I have for you to share)

Sneek Peek Of Page 4

Chief Ladiga Trail

This is part of a 100 mile rail trail that runs from Anniston, Alabama to Smyrna, Georgia.

We picked the trail up in Piedmont, AL and road east to the Georgia state line. The trailhead at Piedmont is at the Eubanks Welcome Center. You can park here I a nice large lot. You can get trail and state maps inside the Welcome Center. We also picked up a couple of sorvener shirts - they also sell hats. The trail was paved the entire section that we rode with the scenery changing at every turn. It's an uphill ride leaving Piedmont and then mostly downhill heading back. We highly recommend a ride on this well done rail trail.

Good Start To The Day

After breakfast we packed up and moved to a much nicer site. I'll share some pics of the campground later. The Three Black Labs are all settled and we are off. Headed to the Eubanks Welcome Center to start our bike ride on the Chief Ladiga Rail Trail. I've loaded a bunch of caches into my GPS to find along the way. Almost to Piedmont. Gotta run.

Traveling With The Three Black Labs

First, I have to say how much I love technology!! I'm creating this blog entry away from my desk in my office - while we are driving down the road with my IPhone. Way too cool!! It's probably not cool to use the word "cool" but what the hey it's cool!

This all is probably just for my own amusement except for the few family members that might be following me.

Lex (our RV), Stella (our GPS) and the Three Black Labs are with Tom and me and we are all headed to Alabama. This will be our first time in Alabama.

I'll be updating our whereabouts on Twitter. If you Twitter you can follow us - our Twitter name is Three Black Labs. If you don't Twitter just checkout the right sidebar on this blog (scroll down a bit) and our Twitter updates will be there.

Going to run. The road is extemely bumpy and it's making it very difficult to type on this tiny key pad.

Catch you later.....

Die Cut Flowers, Martha Stewart Punch, Sizzix Corner, Liquid Glass & Glitter

This is a scanned image of the Frame from a recent Workshop. If you are assembling this from home you can click on the photo and it will enlarge for a closer look.  Please feel free to call me with any questions. 

 

Some pointers: (remove the clear film from photo section while working on the frame)

1.  Pierce the yellow flower and one peach flower with a piercing tool. 

2.  One peach flower has a vellum flower, a glitter center and a clear bead.  The other peach flower has a peach punched flower center, a yellow punched flower, clear shiny tiny flower and a bead

3.  The chocolate flower is glued onto the chipboard flower with a glue stick.  The inside of the yellow flower petals are glued onto the chocolate flower and then the beaded center is glued on.

4.  What's on 3D foam squares: two glitter birds, blessed tag, all the flowers and the butterfly.

5.  All papers are glued to the frame with a glue stick and then carefully rubbed with a bone folder.

Adam Lambert American Idol, Mad World, ITune Downloads - Who Knew!!!

I have a link to ITunes on my left sidebar and didn't realize you could download videos from current American Idol Shows.  My DRV didn't tape Adam Lambert singing Mad World the other night on American Idol - I was so mad - searched all over the internet that night trying to find it out what song Adam had sung.  Finally found the Adam Lambert Mad World Video the next day - wow was it fantastic!!

Well - I clicked on my own link tonight and downloaded the video to my ITunes.  It's loading right now - as I'm typing this.  Tomorrow I'll get it on my IPhone then I can play it on the TV - it will be like I never missed it.  So Fun!!!!!  Just had to share!!  OK - I just watched it - he is REALLY GOOD!!

Cuttlebug, Buttons, Chipboard, CTMH, Rubber Stamping - Scrapbook Layouts

Next Workshop Is Friday May 1st

Four 12 X 12 Layouts - $16.00

Close To My Heart Sarsaparilla Papers Papers & Stampin' Up! Chipboard Birds!

I have supplies for nine crafty ladies!

Morning at 9:00 AM & Evening at 7:00 PM

 

Belize, Vacation Package, Ebay Auction, Chan Chich Jungle Lodge, Ecotourism

My dear hubby and I won this trip on an auction we bid on and paid $817.00 for it.  We are not able to go - we'll be traveling in our RV with our Three Black Labs instead.  I just wanted to put this out there for everyone to see just incase you wanted an opportunity to take an incredible trip at a great price. 

Just click here  to see how beautiful the Chan Chich Jungle Lodge is in Belize, Central America.  If you have any questions let me know.  This auction will run until Sunday evening until approximately 8:30 PM.  I have the starting bid set at a no reserve of $100.00.  That means if no one bids on it there is a chance it could go for just $100.  All the details are listed on the Ebay Auction page.

       

Supply List Is Posted & Updated - Left Sidebar - Classes!

I have glue sticks and 3D foam squares on the "for sale" table.  Also, if you don't have some of the tools I also have those.  Bringing your own tools just makes it for less to share but not to worry - please DO NOT go out and buy tools for crafting.  Please call or email with any questions. 

Looking forward to helping everyone create this very "Blingy - Springy" Frame.

Close To My Heart Butterfly Wishes, Martha Stewart Doiley Punch, Sizzix, Stampin' Up! Scallop Oval Punch

NOTICE: All the kits are ready for those of you that signed up for the Butterfly Wings Workshop.  The video how-to's are ready and in the process of being uploaded.  I look forward to your comments regarding the workshop and the videos.  Enjoy! 

You can find the video's by clicking on the link titled "All Scrapbook Club Members" on the right sidebar under Helpful Information.  I have one more video to upload - page four - it ran a little too long so I'm working on getting it formatted down to the maximum length allowed.  The still scans of the pages will also be posted soon.

Thanks,

Linda

How To Use The Martha Stewart Edge Punch

Thanks for stopping by today.  I'm playing around with adding how-to video's to my blog.  I have a long way to go but I thought I'd share my first (very unprofessional) how-to video with you.  I have lots of things to work on - completing my sentences, better camera angel, better explanation - etc. etc.

I hope you find this a little useful or at the least it gets you motivated to craft a little.

Spellbinder Nestabilites, Cuttlebug, Close To My Heart Stamp of the Month, Sizzix Fancy Cut Corners

 

 

Oh my, how time does fly!!!  My oldest granddaughter, Lindsey, turned 10 last Friday.  She is such a wonderful, beautiful, intelligent young lady.  We have a very special bond.  This is the card I made for her for her birthday.  I feel it's really important to help young girls create a strength and a belief within themselves that they can achieve what they dream.  The Close To My Heart Be Happy Stamp Set had the perfect sentiment "Believe In Yourself".

To create the center of the card I stamped the sentiment from the Close To My Heart Dream Wishes Set along with the decorative outer circle onto Close To My Heart Colonial White Cardstock.  Using the Spellbinder Standard Circle Nestabilities I was able to cut a perfect circle around the stamped image.  It was like Close To My Heart and Spellbinders got together - they match up perfectly.  By the way did you know you can click in the Amazon search box on the left sidebar type in "Nestabilities Standard Circle Large" then go and you will be taken right to the page where you can purchase this set for the very low price of $16.65 - priced elsewhere for as much as $24.99.

Added a little decorative touch to Lindsey's present with the Close To My Heart Stamp of the Month - Butterfly Wings.

Happy Birthday Lindsey - I had a great time at your party!!!

Stamps: Close To My Heart - Butterfly Wings March Stamp of the Month, Dream Wishes, Be Happy

Paper: K & Co. Designer Mat Pad; Stampin' Up! Barely Banana, Kiwi Kiss, Regal Rose, Rose Red; Close To My Heart Colonial White

Ink: Stampin' Up!: Kiwi Kiss, Rose Romance, Summer Sun, Black

Accessories: Spellbinder Nestabilities, Sizzix, Bling, Stampin' Up! HodgePodge Hardware, Metalic Violet Embossing Powder, Cuttlebug - Stylized Flowers & Swiss Dots, Liquid Pearls, Stampin' Up Label Punch

Scrapbooking - Close To My Heart - Martha Stewart Punches - Cuttlebug Ideas - Chipboard Scrapbooking

Ready for a Scrapbooking Class?!?  The pages are prepped and ready to share - the dates are posted in the Class Schedule Album on the left sidebar.  Here's a sneak peek for you.

Come on over and dress-up this Naked Frame!!  So Fun and Fancy!  It's perfect for your special Easter or Spring Photo!

 

Oh, yes!! The scrapbook class - here you go -

 

There are more photo's in the Class Schedule Album on the left sidebar.

A Little Note:  Did you know that you can purchase your Cuttlebug "Supplies and Needs" and your Spellbinder Nestabilites on Amazon.  AND after some comparison shopping I have found the prices on Amazon to be it not the best then pretty darn competitive. 

If you're  planning on shopping for anything on Amazon I would love it if you clicked onto it through my blog - that would be ever so nice of you - and so very much appreciated by me!!

Thanks!  Linda

Close To My Heart March Stamp of the Month, Martha Stewart

 

Stamps: Close To My Heart March Stamp of the Month - Butterfly Wings

Paper: CTMH Crystal Blue Textured and part of the Emporium Paper Kit (love that kit!!), Black, Colonial White

Ink: CTMH Outdoor Denim, Desert Sand (this color is perfect for distressing)

Accessories: CTMH Brads & Ribbon; Glitter Glue & Glitter; SU Top Note Punch; Martha Stewart Punch

Techniques: distressing with sand paper

Scrapbooking Board Books with 7 Gypsies

Please check the Class Schedule in the right sidebar for your supply list - thanks!!

 

 

The sample Board Book is done!  All I need to do now is cut the paper and gather the supplies for the Class!  I had so much fun with this paper and all these fun stickers.  I've added some crowns, som bling and some fancy corners - can't wait for you to see the entire completed book and help you complete your book!

If you weren't able to catch this class because of scheduling reasons or the class filled up too quickly please contact me.  I can still get my hands on some more board books and scrapbook kits.  If you purchase your supplies from me I'll send you a print out with photo's and instructions.

Just thought I'd share - Julie is offering FREE shipping at her Etsy Shop - until further notice!

Julie's Blog - this is where to find the deals!

 Julie's Etsy Shop - where to find handcrafted silver, gold, brass and beaded jewelery.

Basic Grey, Sizzix, Cuttlebug, Stampin' Up!, Close To My Heart, Liquid Pearls

 

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Dreams du Jour, Stampin' Up! Riot of Petals Background Stamp, Close To My Heart Soul Mates Paper: Stampin Up! More Mustard, Real Red, Kiwi Kiss; Close To My Heart Colonial White Ink: Black; Creole Spice Kaleidacolor (butterfly); Close To My Heart Desert Sand; Versamark Accessories: Close To My Heart Pearl Paint, Basic Grey Ribbon, Liquid Pearls, Crayon, White Embossing Powder, Cuttlebug Corner, Bling, Close To My Heart  Liquid Glass, Close To My Heart 3D Foam Squares, Chipboard Frame, Stampin' Up! Scallop Edger Techniques: Embossing The card measures: 5 X 5 Close up of details -

 

Lisa's son Patrick is shaving his head!!!

Here's a nice photo of a very nice young man that I thought I'd share with you.  Click on the link next to his photo to see why he is shaving his head....

 

I wonder if he's going to share a photo with us after he has his head shaved?!?

Just click here to see what Patrick's up to.....

Close To My Heart, Sta,mps For Sale, American Girl, Daisy D's, Sizzix, Chipboard, Cuttlebug, Stampin' Up!

Playing with the girls over at Splitcoaststampers tonight...Come on over and see what we're up to it's called Virtual Stamp Night - VSN!!

Starting at 7:00 PM tonight a challenge goes up every hour.  You have 45 minutes to complete the challenge and then a 15 minute break before the next challenge.  The last challenge is posted at 11:00 PM.  Then when we get up in the morning we can start playing at 12 noon until 11 at night - whew!!!

I'll post my cards here as I complete them with a brief description.  Enjoy!!! Join us if your feeling creative tonight or tomorrow.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sketch A Little Love

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Time For You

Paper: Stampin' Up! Rose Red, Mint Melody; Daisy D's Designer Paper

Ink: Black, Stampin' Up! Markers

Accessories: Daisy D's Button & Flowers; QuicKutz, Misc. Acrylic Heart, Black Polka Dot Ribbon from American Girl Lunch, Liquid Pearls White Opal, Creative Memories Circle Template         See With The Heart Stamps: SU See with the Heart Paper: SU Forest Foliage, Rose Red; CTMH Colonial White Ink: Black StazOn, CTMH - Desert Sand, Taffy, Honey & Sweet Leaf Accessories: K & Co. Brad, Sizzix Corner, SU Ribbon, Sponges, Misc. Flowers, 3D Foam Squares, Sandpaper Block, Cuttlebug                 Thank you! Stamps: CTMH Quilted Treasures, SU Very Punny & Fancy Flexible Phrases Paper: SU Forest Foliage (was on the counter from the last challenge), CTMH Colonial White (also was on the counter) Ink: Versamark, Black, Markers - Barely Banana & Blush Blossom Accessories: Topiary EP, Piercing Tool, Silver HodgePodge Hardware, CTMH Ponderosa Pine Ribbon, SU Square Punch & Square Scallop Punch, 3D Foam Squares The Close To My Heart Quilted Treasures is for sale - you can find the set and info in the right sidebar under - "Stamps For Sale"

Chipboard - Martha Stewart Punch - Stampin' Up! Top Note - 7 Gypsies

 

Stamps: Close To My Heart - The Good Life

Paper: Stampin' Up!

Ink: Black, Chocolate, Grey Wool

Accessories: Bling, Chipboard, Close To My Heart Embossing Powder, Silver Paint Pen, Martha Stewart Edge Punch, Stampin' Up! Library Clip, Dollhouse Door Knob, 7 Gypsies Key, Bling, Twine, Close To My Heart Waxy Flax, Staples, Dymo Label Maker

Martha Stewart Lace Punch - Close To My Heart Pewter Brads - Stampin' Up! Top Note

 

I have to say this card is one of my favorites - I had so much fun making it and it ended up being the card I gave to Tom for our 24th Anniversary. 

Let's start with the wonderful designer paper - all of the designer paper you see including the paper the photo is taken on is from the Close To My Heart Emporium Paper Pack.  I've used this paper on several cards now - it's beautiful - don't you think?!?  In order to get the punched holes to be in the same spot on the back matting I cut both the Colonial White and the Blue/Green Designer Paper the same size - punched out the corners then cut 1/8" off of each side of the Designer Paper. 

The next layer is cut out with the new Stampin' Up! Top Note Punch.  See all those little slits in the paper - that is part of the punch!  Glue the punched out piece to a piece of cardstock and hand cut arount the cardstock to match the punched piece.  Did you know that you can use your Cuttlebug Machine with the new Stampin' Up! Sizzix Punches - how fun is that?!?! Click on photo's to enlarge them!!

The middle band is two strips of DP (Designer Paper) taped together - sligthly creased - folded back and forth to make a pleated look.  On the top folds I placed a 3D Foam Square to give it added dimension.  The Martha Stewart Lace punch was used for the Colonial White Strip on top of the pleated paper.  Punch one side of the cardstock - trim it down (not too much) then punch the other side.  Finally added a strip of velvet ribbon and two Close To My Heart Pewter Brads.

My favorite part is the ribbon ruffles around the hearts.  That technique is described in the photo's below.  Stamped the words - hand cut most and used the Stampin' Up! Arrow Punch for the "hand IN" words.  The arrow and the hearts are all attached with 3D Foam Squares.  Click on the photo and a separate window will open for a close up view.

 

 

Stamps: Close To My Heart Soul Mates D1254

Paper: Close To My Heart Emporium Paper Kit, Misc. Burgundy

Ink: SU Chocolate Chip Craft, Cranberry Crisp, Close To My Heart Chocolate

Accessories: Close To My Heart Pewter Brads, Close To My Heart 3D Foam Squares, Stampin' Up! Top Note by Sizzix (love this!), Stampin' Up! Wrought Iron & My Way Punches, Stampin' Up! Chocolate Ribbon, Misc. Cream Ribbon, Bling, Martha Stewart Lace Punch, Copper Embossing Powder (for hearts), Versamark Ink Pad

Techniques: Paper Pleats

Sizzix, Chipboard, Felt Flowers - Close To My Heart Checklist!

 

 First I have to say I love this paper from Close To My Heart - Magic Moments.  I've used it on quite a few cards lately - there are so many choices with this paper kit because you get so much paper plus all the designer paper is reversible.  I'm keeping it out - going back to make some scrapped pages with it!!

Also, love this stamp set from Close To My Heart - Checklist.  This set is so versatile - I've used it here to make a Thank You card.  But just check out all the words - it can be so many different types of cards - a friend, a love, a congratulations and annoucement card.  AND my head is just filled with ideas for using this set on a scrapped page.

The little bird on the card is from this very fun pack of chipboard from Stampin' Up!  You get six sheets of chipboard filled with darling little birds, owls, flowers and branches.  I used the paper from the Magic Moments Kit to paper piece this little guy today.  Used a glue stick to adhere the paper.  His little eye is colored in with a black marker then added a little Close To My Heart Liquid Glass to give it a little gleam.

The Stampin' Up! Sizzix Top Note was cut twice using my Cuttlebug Machine. The Top Note was first cut from cardboard then designer paper from the Magic Moments Kit and glued together with a glue stick.  This gives it a little more dimension on the card.  DID YOU KNOW THAT ALL THE NEW STAMPIN' UP! SIZZIX DIE CUTS WILL WORK IN YOUR CUTTLEBUG MACHINE!!  TOO COOL!!

Stamps: Close To My Heart Checklist D1252

Paper: Close To My Heart Magic Moments Paper Kit

Ink: Close To My Heart Black & Hollyhock

Accessories: Hirschberg RickRack, Stampin' Up! Silver Twine, Stampin' Up! Bigz Top Note, Stampin' Up! On Board So Tweet, Stampin' Up! Flower Fusion Felt Flowers, Friendly Forest Brad, Close To My Heart Liquid Glass   A sample sheet of the Stampin' Up! On Board So Tweet Chipboard.

Just a reminder - Close To My Heart has this wonderful giveaway this month - if you spend $25.00 on stamps you get this darling "Fun Times" Stamp Set for FREE (shipping and tax may apply).

Close To My Heart Easter Eggs - Cuttlebug - Martha Stewart Punch

Stamps: Close To My Heart Easter Eggs  - February Stamp of the Month

Paper: Close To My Heart - retired - can anyone remember the name of this paper??  It's from my scraps but I believe it was from a Mother's Day Kit?!?

Ink: Close To My Heart Taffy, Black

Accessories: Close To My Heart Autumn Ribbon, Brads, Eyelet, 3D Foam Squares; Stampin' Up! Gold Twine; Cuttlebug Corners and Strip Template; Martha Stewart Tag Punch; Basket Stencil

Memories Board Book Class - February 26th & 27th

Are you tired of winter?!?  Are you ready to craft a little?!?  Are you ready for a fun spring-like class?!?

I'm excited to be offering my second Board Book Class - I will be holding the class on two evenings and one morning - so hopefully we'll be able to fool the snow that way.

DO YOU HIKE?!?  DO YOU PICNIC?!? DO YOU HAVE FAMILY GATHERINGS?!? DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS GOING TO HAVE A BABY BOY?!?  Then this fun project is for you.

We will be using the 7Gypsies Board Book and the Stampin' Up! Hoppy Memories Kit to decorate the book.  Almost everything will be pre-cut for you and I'll be adding some fun embellishments and lots of fun ribbons throughout the book and on the binding.

 

Everyone will recieve these three sheets of stickers for decorating your Board Book.  Any stickers that are not used are yours to take home.  Below are the designer papers and cardstock that will be used in the book.  These papers will be cut to page and mat sizes.  Everyone will have their own printout to follow with page by page directions for assembly your board book.

 

 

TAKING NAMES ON A WAIT LIST BASIS - SEATS ARE FULL.  THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR SIGNING UP!!  PLEASE EMAIL ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.

CLASSES WILL BE THURSDAY EVENING, FRIDAY MORNING AND FRIDAY NIGHT.

YOU'LL NEED TO BRING AT LEAST TWO GLUE STICKS AND A BONE FOLDER.  I HAVE SOME GLUE STICKS FOR SALE AND ONE BONE FOLDER TO LEND TO SOMEONE TO USE.

ALSO, IF YOU HAVE RIBBON THAT YOU FEEL WILL GO GREAT WITH YOUR BOOK FEEL FREE TO BRING IT.

Thursday - Feb. 26th 7:00 PM

Friday - Feb. 27th 9:00 AM  and 7:00 PM

LOOKING FORWARD TO SHARING THIS FUN PROJECT WITH YOU!!  Cost $17.00

Linda

 

Sizzix Bunny - Martha Stewart Crown - Close To My Heart Easter Eggs

 

I used the Close To My Heart Easter Egg SOTM Set for this card.  This is suppose to look like a spray of flowers but the flowers are the egss - what do you think?!?  I used the Spellbinder to cut cardboard templates first then used the Close To My Heart Emporium paper and Colonial White Cardstock to cut a second set of templates.  With a glue stick I glued the two together so it looks like chipboard.   

 

Stamps: Close To My Heart Easter Eggs February SOTM

Paper: CTMH Emporium Paper Packet

Ink: Black, Honey, Twilight

Accessories: CTMH Winter Ribbon, Spellbinder Labels One, Misc. Punches, Sizzix Corner

 

I'll be back with the details.... but do check out the Close To My Heart Easter Egg February SOTM

Stamps: Close To My Heart Easter Eggs - SOTM for February

Paper: Close To My Heart Emporium Paper Kit

Ink: Chocolate, Cranberry Crisp

Accessories: Making Memories Mini Brads, Close To My Heart Waxy Flax & Eyelets, Stampin' Up! Scallop Punch, Martha Crown Punch, Bling, Stampin' Up! Wrought Iron Punch, Creative Memories Circle Cutter, Gold Paint Pen, Butterfly Punch, Bling

Close To My Heart Flower Child - Martha Stewart - Cuttlebug - Coluzzle - Stampin' Up!

 

Two things - no maybe three - I love these little babies from the Close To My Heart Flower Child Stamp Set - I Love Punches! - I've used  a doily-lace scalloped-edge Martha Stewart Punch (fav!) and a Stampin' Up! Scallop Edge Punch (fav-too!!) on this card - lastly I love making window cards and that was the challenge at Splitcoaststampers the other day.  I'll post some pics here for you to show you the steps I take to make my window cards.  The unfortunate part is the dimension doesn't show up very well in photographs.

HOW TO USE YOUR COLUZZLE CUTTING SYSTEM TO MAKE A WINDOW CARD:

 1.  Cut your top cardstock mat to the appropriate size - this one measures 5.75 X 3.75 on a 5 X 7 card. I have two different Coluzzle Oval Mats - one I got from Close To My Heart  and one from SU - they cut different size ovals.  You do need these two for my example.   

2. Decide where you will be cutting an opening in your top layer and stamp your images accordingly.  In this example the words will be my inside image with the large flower and bumble bee babies on my top layer. 

3.  Lay the Coluzzle Template over your top mat - choose a shape that is large enough for the words.  NOTE:  I've marked each cutting section with a permanent marker for easier reference.  Cut up to each image BUT not through the image.

4.  Remove the Coluzzle Cutting Template and with small craft sissors trim around the edges of your stamped images.  The stamped images on the top of the card are not stamped cut out and glued down but are part of the stop layer.

5.  Cut out a smaller mat that will be place under the top Colonial White mat.  Don't worry too much about being in the center of your rectangle - you can move the green layer around for a perfect fit by trimming the layer down.

NOTE:  you can click on any of these photo's to enlarge them for a closer look!

This is a close-up of the Close To My Heart 3D Foam Squares.  I'm trying to show the three different sizes but not sure how well it shows up on the computer screen. 

Using these self-adhesive squares and strips adds lots of dimension to cards and scrapbook pages.  What comes in a package: 200 - 1/2" squares, 200 - 1/4" squares, 8 - 1/2" strips and 14 - 1/4" strips - that's a lotsa layered effects!!

Shop for Close To My Heart 3D Foam Squares by clicking here!

Found this great video at Martha Stewart .com showing her making some stationary with her wonderful edge punches - you can check it out here: Martha Stewart Craft Punch Video

Close To My Heart Free Spirit - Cuttlebug - Martha Stewart

 I love circle stamps and the Close To My Heart Free Spirit Stamp Set is one of my favorites.  The Free Spirit Set has five circles - two birds - and more - a total of 13 stamps all together.

For this card I cut the cardstock circles first then stamped.  Because the Close To My Heart Stamps are Acrylix you can see exactly where you are stamping - so easy!  I didn't have anything to make the right size scallops from so I used Stampin' Up! punches to punch circles and ovals.  The larger circle has overlapping circles glued to the back of it and the smaller circle has overlapping ovals glued to the back of it.  The smallest circle was a little too big - to make it smaller I distressed the edges with the Close To My Heart Edge Distresser until I got it to the right size.

The layers were then all glued together and then the circle was glued to the front of the card.  Turning the card over I used the edge of the card as a guide to cut off the excess circle.  Added a Prima Flower, a stamped bird from the Free Spirit Set and some Liquid Pearls on the scallops.  The little heart and key are tied together with Close To My Heart Waxy Flax and glued to the card with a Close To My Heart Glue Dot. 

A Fun Thing To Do With Your Cuttlebug:

Cut your cardstock so you have a top fold card.  Cutting an 8-1/2 X 11 piece of cardstock vertically rather than horizontal.  Take two complimenting Cuttlebug Embossing Plates - open your card flat and place one plate horizontally on the top of the card and emboss the cardstock.  Now line up the other plate across the bottom of the cardstock. ( HINT:  if your card wants to move in the template use a little piece of blue painters tape to hold it in place. )  Now emboss the bottom of the card.  You will have a line where the two meet - just cover this with ribbon or a punched border.

Stamps: Close To My Heart Free Spirit

Paper: Stampin' Up! Baja Breeze, Pacific Point (new colors!)

Ink: Stampin' Up! Pacific Point (new color!)

Accessories:  Close To My Heart Waxy Flax, Close To My Heart Distressing Tool,  Stampin' Up! Green Ribbon, Stampin' Up! Circle & Oval Punches,  Prima Flower, 3Gypsies Key, Misc Heart Charm (this was from one of those Christmas Crackers), Cuttlebug, Martha Stewart Lace Punch, Liquid Pearls Scrapped pages using the Close To My Heart Free Spirit Stamp Set.

Close To My Heart - Birthday Party Scrapbook Layout

 

Close To My Heart is Celebrating 25 years!!!  And they want to give everyone a gift - just purchase $25.00 in stamps and you get a gift.

When you purchase $25.00 in Close To My Heart Stamps you will receive this darling Good Times Stamp Set FREEE !! (shipping and tax apply).

How cute is this set on this scrapped page - darling I know!

All the details can be found online at My Close To MY Heart Shop - check it out now!!

Just a little p.s. - Stamp of the Month, Discounted and Customized Name Stamps don't count - sorry - needed to fill you in on all the little crossed "T's" and dotted "I's"!!  Offer good from February 3 to February 28, 2009.

 

Close To My Heart - Unforgettable ... that's what you are ...

Don't you just love this new Unforgettable Designer Paper  from Close To My Heart - I do!!  All this beautiful paper came from one Level 2 Paper Packet - 10 different cardstock sheets (2 each of 3 colors, 4 neutral) and 12 Designer Papers (2 each of 6 reversible patterns).  The chocolate with the pink flowers, the stripe and the paper I've taken the photo on are all from the kit.  

I did another card using the paper pleating from yesterdays challenge at Splitcoaststampers.  Again, adding the lace work from the Martha Stewart Lace Border Punch.  The center is comprised of a Chocolate Cardstock cut out with the Spellbinder's Scalloped Circle and a Colonial White Cardstock cut out with the Spellbinder's Circle and one more Colonial White Cardsotck cut out with a smaller Spellbinder Circle. 

Since the Close To My Heart Stamps are clear I was able to stamp the Close To My Heart Dream Wishes Stamp  after I cut the shapes out.  The minute I saw the Dream Wishes Stamp Set in the new Close To My Heart Idea Book I knew it was a perfect match for my Spellbinder Nestabilities. 

The edge of the card is faux stitched using a pattern marker.  Using a personal trimmer as a guide you can run the wheel of the pattern marker along the cutting line - this will punch an even perforated line for you.  Use an old personal trimmer for this - I use this trimmer for my faux stitching and paper creasing.  I use a seperate personal trimmer for cutting. 

Then use the small tip of a marker and go over the perforated holes - now it looks like you've stitched the paper.

One of my favorite things about Close To My Heart Paper is that it's reversible.  Here's a little photo showing both sides of the Designer Paper.   

And finally a close-up of the card front.  I used the Stampin' Up! Blush Blossom Marker to color in the flower petals and then added a touch of Liquid Pearls to the center of each flower.

The chunky button is from the Close To My Heart Spring Button Collection - darling isn't it!

The Dream Wishes Stamp Set  is perfect for journaling on scrapped pages!!  I love how they fit the Spellbinder Nestabilities! 

SALE!!! Close To My Heart - discounted product!!

The last time CTMH had a sale I have to say it was a little crazy - so just wanted to give you a head's up to be prepared for things to move out fast!!!

What's on sale:  My Legacy Albums, My Originals Card Kits, Base Pages 12 X 12 and 9 X 9, Accessories, My Reflections 12 X 12 Scrapbook Kits and How-To Programs.

Where you say - click here!

Key To My Heart - January Promo Coming To An End - 6 more days!

 

Let me count the ways I love this beautiful Close To My Heart Key to My Heart Level 2 paper packet and the awesome E-size My Acrylix Close To My Heart Key to My Heart Stamp Set! 

The paper packet comes with 12 - 12 X 12 Doubled Sided Designer Papers and 10 - 12 X 12 Cardstock Sheets in four colors.  AND the very elegant stamp set comes with 16 stamps - two of them being completely awesome - a huge swirly corner that is fantastic on a scrapped page and an oversized heart key. 

Make sure to click on over to my store to see all the details!!!  

The designer paper on the card and the designer paper that I took the photo on are both from the Key to My Heart Paper Packet.

Stamps: Close to My Heart Keys To My Heart

Paper: Close to My Heart Keys To My Heart, Black, Colonial White

Ink: Close To My Heart Black, Cranberry; SU Craft Bashful Blue

Accessories: Close To My Heart Gold Embossing Powder, Close to My Heart Ribbon, Sizzix Accent Corner, Gem, Spellbinder Ovals Template, Cuttle Bub Birds & Swirls Folder

Grandpa made a workbench - Grandma made a card!

  It's the Birthday Boy - Joey!!  I can't believe it's two years already - wow!!

  Grandpa and I went to the store to find one of those old wooden Fisher Price workbench's - no such thing anymore - plastic, plastic and more plastic.  We did find some wooden tools though!!

  Came home and Granpa made a workbench for Joey - I just loved how it turned out!!  What do you think?!?

  So I had to make a card to go with this very fun workbench and had the perfect stamp set from All That Scraps - it's called Handyman Jack - and that would definitely describe Joey's Grandpa Tom.

  

  Handy Man Jack's clothes are all paper piece.  How do you paper piece??  Stamp the image on different colored cardstock and/or designer paper then carefully cut everything out - just like when we played paper dolls! 

  The picture frame is chipboard from the Close To My Heart Dimensional Elements.  Using a glue stick cover the chipboard generously with glue - stick onto the back of the chipboard - rub the front of the chipboard with a bone folder so the paper and chipboard get a good bond.  Trim the excess designer paper away from the chipboard then use a Close To My Heart Finishing File to get into all the nooks and crannies.  I cut a small piece of Close To My Heart Page Protector to fit in the fram and  printed a small version of the photo to mount behind the page protector.  The frame is then popped up with Close To My Heart Foam Squares! 

This whole birthday project was so much fun!  And our sweet little Joey really enjoyed everything - including the card!

Around the Block - Stamp Set Sold!

I pulled a retired Stampin' Up! Hostess Set out of my for sale bin to make this card today!

The Try A New Technique Challenge at Splitcoaststampers today was "Faux Mosaic".

The top of the card was covered with double stick scotch tape.  Then 12 little 7/8" squares were lined up and stuck on top of the tape.

Then bronze embossing powder was sprinkled on the sticky tape that was still showing.  Heat set the embossing powder - faux mosaic!

The large chipboard "W" was also covered with the bronze embossing powder. 

This very versatile stamp set has four stamps: B is for bliss; T is for thanks; G is for genuine and W is for wonderful. 

Find this set and others for sale by clicking on the link on the left sidebar.

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Around The Block

Paper: Close to my Heart Magic Moments, Stampin' Up! Wild Wasabi

Ink: Stampin' Up! Chocolate Chip Craft

Accessories: Close to my Heart Ribbon, EP, Stampin' Up! Scalloped Edge Punch

Technique: Faux Mosaic

Keys To My Heart - For Sold!

I think I might be back in the swing of this stamping business!  Made three cards yesterday - here is the second card from the Ways To Use it Challenge at Splitcoaststampers yesterday.  Once again, I went to Puffluna.Etsy.com for my color and card inspiration.    

 

I picked up on the black oxidized silver chain paired with the vintage white faceted glass beads.  The hint of a pink shimmer in the jar finished up my color combo.  The keys hanging on the left of the oval on the card represent the dangling earrings.

 Stop by Puffluna's Blog  - she always has a special on Fridays! 

Stamps: Close To My Heart  -  Keys To My Heart  - these are for sale - see the left sidebar.

Paper: Black, Pink, Close To My Heart Colonial White

Ink: Versamark, Black

Accessories: Close To My Heart Silver Embossing Powder , Spellbinder Oval Templates, Close To My Heart My Accents Beads, Sizzix Architectural Accent #3, Friskars Corner Punch, Stampin' Up! Jersey Ribbon Be A Better Kisser!  Now that I have your attention have you seen the How To Video's From Close To My Heart TV - they are packed with information and fun techniques.  Also, I love this part, you can purchase the stamp set shown in this video at a discount!! Click here  for scrap book pages and cards using the Kissing Technique, Blending Pen and Water Color Pen.  Lots of information packed into a very up beat video!  You're going to love it!

Close To My Heart Simple Beauty & Puffluna

                                                                                        The Inspiration and The Card!

I wish you could see my card IRL (in real life)  my colors match the earrings  almost exactly - but under what is obviously imperfect photo shoot conditions the colors on my card are off.  Even the Stampin' Up! Gold Brush Foil Paper looks off - IRL the color matches the earring cap perfectly!!

Today over at Splitcoaststampers we were to use a website where color combo's inspire us.  I have two such sites listed on my right sidebar: Close To My Heart Color Combo's and Stampin' Up! Color Combo's.  But in all reality (I know I've been told I say that too much!) - I really go to Julie's     Puffluna.Etsy.Com  site alot for inspiration.  I look at the design and the color and ask myself if I was making a card to go along with this piece of jewlery what would I make. 

Stamps: Close To My Heart Simple Beauty Simple Beauty

Paper: Stampin' Up! Blush Blossom, Perfect Plum, Brushed Gold

Ink: Black, Brialliance Gallaxy Gold

Accessories: Stampin' Up! Gold Twine, Labels, Jersey Ribbon, Gold Paint Pen, Markers, Scallop Punch; Nestabilities Labels One; Cuttlebug Leafy Branch

Look Who's Two Today!

Valentine Cherubs - Sold

  

Pulled this beautiful stamp set out of my Stamps For Sale Bin!!  The stamp set is still for sale if your interested - $8.00 plus actual shipping cost.

I started making this card on Sunday for the Splitcoaststampers Featured Stampers Challenge and finally finished it on Tuesday night - life got in the way!! 

I had just received some new Die-Cuts from Spellbinders and really wanted to use them. I used the Spellbinders Nestabilities Labels Two for the center of the card.  Used three different templates - cut each one then embossed each one - rubbed them with Close To My Heart Desert Sand Ink to highlight the embossing.  The Desert Sand Ink is a fantastic color to give your cards or scrapped pages an antiqued look!!

It's probably hard to tell but I also added some Close To My Heart Liquid Glass to the flowers.  On the very edge of the Colonial White Cardstock you'll notice a thin gold line - this was applied with the Stampin' Up! Paint Pen and a piece of cardstock for a drawing guide.

Stamps: Close To My Heart Valentine Cherubs  - Retired but for sale on my blog!!

Paper: Close To My Heart Elegant Bouquet Paper Packet - retired

Ink: StazOn Black, Close To My Heart Desert Sand Ink

Accessories: Spellbinder Nestabilities - Labels Two, Stampin' Up! Ribbon, Close To My Heart Ribbon, Stampin' Up! Wrought Iron Punch, Gold Pen, Close To My Heart Liquid Glass, Stampin' Up! Watercolor Crayons Occassionally my daughter, Julie, will create a vintage piece of jewlery for her shop.  Just had to share this beautiful piece with you that has the vintage glass cabochon that is set in brass - I also love how she's taken the photo. You can see the entire necklace at her shop at Puffluna.etsy.com -  enjoy visiting with her! Had to share this wonderful video with you for making a Close To My Heart My Creations Memory Keeper.  This would be a wonderful Valentine's present, Anniversary, Grandparent or Baby - this is a must see video.  Plus the video comes with a Supply LIst and all the Measurements!!  PLUS - if you'd like to purchase the products as a bundle you'll save over $10.00!!  Way too cool!!  Let me know if you have any questions.  I know you're going to love this project and the video!! Welcome to Close To My Heart's Heart & Soul TV Art & Soul Non-Traditional Kit Products

Moments in Time ... Chipboard ... Buttons

Started this card yesterday for the Splitcoaststampers  

Sketch Challenge - BUT - the weather was pretty bad here - the roads had a very dangerous sheet of ice hiding under the snow!!  School was cancelled, the girls were home and it was Amelia's Birthday!! SO - we all went bowling!!  How fun was that!!!  I'll stick a couple of our bowling pics at the end here - teehee!!

But I got lucky the Ways To Use It Challenge at Splitcoaststampers was to use stars ... well, my card had stars - it was a two for one day!!! Lucky!!

I had used this paper  for my photo backdrop on my last card I made and I just had to make a card with it - isn't it darling paper!!  Close to my Heart has these wonderful paper packs for Scrapbookers and Stampers - they have assembled cardstock and designer paper all coordinated and all in one package.  That really makes crafting much easier. 

How to use chipboard*:  on the left side is a large Stampin' Up! Star and four smaller Close To My Heart Chipboard Shapes covered with designer paper.  1.  Generously cover the chipboard with glue using a glue stick. 2.  Lay the glued side onto the back of your designer paper.  3.  Turn the paper over and firmly rub the paper with a bone folder to adhere it to the chipboard.  4.  Trim around the chipboard with micro-tip craft scissors.  5. Carefully file (I used CTMH Finishing Files)   and sand the edges of the paper and chipboard.  6. Using a finger tip sponge dauber rub with ink.  

The Close To My Heart Fresh Shapes Chipboard   already sticky on the back with a peel off backing.  The Stampin' Up! large star chipboard is apllied with liquid glue.  Click on the above photo for a closer look at the chipboard elements.  

This is the complete Moments In Time Stamp Set.  I knew I would be able to use it on a scrapped page but the challenge was to use it on a card.  I'm really happy with how this turned out.  This card is for Amelia.  on the inside I'm going to write a little something about how wonderful it was the day she was born.  How we remember that shooting stars and loved filled the room.

Stamps: Close To My Heart  Moments In Time  D1339 - Stamp of the Month - January 2008 only!

Paper: Close To My Heart Magic Moments Paper Pack  & Stickease Pack, Stampin' Up! Wild Wasabi, More Mustard

Ink: Close To  My Heart Chocolate, Cranberry

Accessories: Close To My Heart Waxy Flax, Dimensional Elements (Chipboard Star & Heart) and Finishing Tools, Stampin' Up! Large Chipboard Heart, Daisy D's Buttons You know how the story goes - when you see something you like you'd better get it or it will be gone - well - that's happened to me plenty of times.  While I was creating this card it reminded me of a bracelet from Julie's Shop  that I just loved the "Colorfall Bracelet".  Well, it's gone - but I still wanted to share the photo with you.  If you haven't been to Julie's Puffluna Shop yet - today is a great day to visit.  Her work is very creative with a little bit of funkiness - love it!! * Great Ideas To Share: Catch this informative and fun video on Close To My Heart TV - it's all about How To Alter Chipboard  How To Alter Chipboard.  It's one of the PBS episodes that you can view right on my Close To My Heart Store.  It's free, it's fun and it's informative! I had mentioned I'd add some photo's from yesterdays bowling party - well - LOL - they are all of everyone's back - maybe the bowling alley isn't the best place to take photo's!!

                                   

Holly got a STRIKE!!

Glitter - Cuttlebug - Martha Stewart & A Bunny!

I love this image of this sweet bunny.  

I know who else loves bunnies - my dear friend Sharon - she's the one that wrapped a present for me using the "in the garden" ribbon you see at the top of the card.  I've been wanting to use this ribbon on a card for ages - I'm so glad I found the perfect image to go with the ribbon.  

This cute bunny and the sentiment is from the current Stampin' Up! Catalog - it's called Serene Spring.  

The card base is scored on the edge and bottom using a bone folder and Friskars Personal Trimmer.  Added the beautiful velvet scalloped ribbon on the left edge.  The Cuttlebug Birds & Swirls  Embossing Plate was used to create the blingy background - I ran the Martha Stewart Glue Pad over the embossed paper then covered it with Martha Stewart Blue Topaz Glitter.  Hint: hold it over a trash can and brush with a stiff brush to remove all the excess glitter. 

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Serene Spring

Paper: Stampin' Up! Kraft, Brilliant Blue, (the Pumpkin Pie is in the ribbon and buttons), Close To My Heart Colonial White

Ink: StazOn Black, Close To My Heart Chocolate

Accessories: Ribbon My Girlfriend Used On A Gift For Me, Velvet Scallop Ribbon,  Cuttlebug - Distressed STripes & Birds and Swirls , Martha Stewart Glue Pad & Blue Topaz Glitter & Fence Border Punch, Karen Foster Buttons, Stampin' Up! Water Color Buttons, Bone Folder & Friskar's Personal Trimmer

Techniques: Glitter Pumpkin Pie was one of the colors in the Splitcoaststampers Color Challenge today - which reminded me of the "Vintage Finds Earrings Orange" over at my daughter Julie's Shop on Etsy.  They are the cutest things:     Vintage Finds Earrings Orange    Great Ideas To Share: Here is a great video showing you how to Make Your Own Background and Textured Paper.

A Few Of My Favorite Things

That was the Limited Supply Challenge at Splitcoaststampers today.  I used the same Close To My Heart Stamp Set I used yesterday - Soul Mates.  And also checked out Julie's Shop for some inspiration again - her wonderful creations are some of my favorites.  Also, check with Holly she tell you that Julie is also my favorite daughter - teehee!!   

So here you see it - I love black and gold together it looks for rich to me.  Also love any type of embossing - with powder, brass templates, Cuttlebug templates any type - and ribbon - if you know me it's laughable how much ribbon I've collected here in my workshop. 

The ribbon on this card is a very pretty black velvet scalloped ribbon - difficult to see in this photo - a little easier to see in this small photo.

Also, did you know that if you click on any photo it will enlarge for a better look - try it! 

The piece in Julie's Shop that inspired me today was this beautiful Brass and Pearl Locket Necklace.  The embossing on the locket is repeated on the card with the Cuttlebug Templates and the brass look is repeated in the paper and embossed hearts.     

I did one of the hearts on the card in the same dark burgundy that Julie has in her rose and freshwater pearls.

Check out Julie's Blog  for her weekley discounts and monthly contests.  You might just be a winner!!    

I have some other favorite cards I've made with this same stamp set.  They've been posted on the blog before but just thought this would be a nice time to share them.

  This is the complete Soul Mates Stamp Set!