Inky Fingers

Burnished Embossing

2012-01-16T13:42:00.000-08:00

From the new Technique Junkie Stampin' Companion CD. This was a fun and easy technique. The CD has 70 fabulous printable tutorials using Stampin' Up products. Not a SU fan? No worries, any stamps of your choosing can be used in these wonderful tutorials.
Thanks for stopping by. See you again soon!

The Perfect Pair Once Again!

2011-12-13T07:01:00.000-08:00

You cannot go wrong when you pair Paper Temptress paper with a Technique Junkie Tutorial.The card shown uses the Cut Away Embossing technique, and what fun it is! I have used my Cricut as well to cut out the bridge and the laterns. Paper Temptress papers cut beautifully in the cricut and also give a nice crisp impression in embossing folders.

TFL and see you again soon!

3D And Fun Fold TJ Blog Hop With Sweet ‘n Sassy Stamps

2011-12-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to day FIVE of the Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog Hop. Today Sweet And Sassy Stamps joins with the Technique Junkie Newsletter to showcase our new 3D And Fun Folds CD. This is the LAST DAY TO HOP, so if you are just getting started and you want to be eligible for the prizes you need to go to the start point for each day listed below and follow the instructions there. First go to my card below the list to see another great card fold from the 3D And Fun Folds CD that I made for today's hop.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday TODAY'S HOP STARTS HERE

My card for today's hop uses SWEET AND SASSY's digital stamps Cornflowers and Butterfly and Everyday Miracles. using the Map Fold Card Technique from the 3D And Fun Folds CD. If you look closely, just behind the card front, you can see how it folds and then my second picture shows it open. A great card to send or give to someone with a wonderful surprise inside!

CORNFLOWERS AND BUTTERFLY

EVERYDAY MIRACLES

You need to visit each blog on the list above in order to be eligible for the prizes to be awarded. You have until December 2nd to leave comments on as many blogs as you can for the daily prizes. The winner for each days give away will be announced on Pat Huntoon's Blog on Saturday, December 3. The grand prize winner will be announced on Monday, December 5th! All of the prize winners will be chosen randomly.

***The 3D and Fun Folds CD contains 70 step-by-step technique tutorials in pdf format – which includes perfect dimensions, perfect directions and great pictures for every step. The convenience of being able to print each technique out makes it so easy to complete your projects and cards. Visit the Technique Junkie Newsletter site for more details about the CD and the Technique Junkie Newsletter.

Below is a list of the days and companies that have participated in the Joint Blog Hop with Technique Junkies this week:

Below is your list of blogs for the hop today:

Thanks for stopping by everyone, and good luck in your quest for the prizes too!

3D and Fun Folds Joint Blog Hop With Paper Temptress - Day Three

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to day THREE of the Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog Hop. There will be 2 more days to HOP after this one, so don't miss any. Today the Paper Temptress joins with the Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog Hop to showcase our new 3D And Fun Folds CD. I am quite certain that after you see all the fun cards and projects created from this CD, it will be a MUST HAVE! Below is the card I created using the Tee Pee Technique from the 3D And Fun Folds CD, and Paper Temptress papers and ribbon.

TEE PEE TECHNIQUE

The Technique Junkie Newsletter has been publishing rubber stamping technique tutorials since 2002. The 3D and Fun Folds CD contains 70 step-by-step technique tutorials in pdf format – which includes perfect dimensions, perfect directions and great pictures for every step. The convenience of being able to print each technique out makes it so easy to complete your projects and cards. Visit the Technique Junkie Newsletter site for more details about the CD and the Technique Junkie Newsletter.

If you missed DAYS ONE and TWO, you will want to go back and check out all of the beautiful projects everyone has already created. It is a SHORT AND SWEET HOP, so if you have a little time you can ENJOY the projects by clicking on the links for those days. If this is where you started for today's hop, you need to go the the Technique Junkie blog HERE to start and follow the instructions from there.

There will be different opportunities for you to win a prize each day and at the end of the hop, by just hopping along! All you have to do is HOP through and comment on each of the participating blogs and you will have a chance to win! There will be some wonderful opportunities available at Pat Huntoon's Blog.

The winner for each days give away will be announced on Pat Huntoon's Blog on Saturday, December 3. The grand prize winner will be announced on Monday, December 5th! All of the prize winners will be chosen randomly. Please stop through EVERY DAY and take your time visiting each blog! You have until 11:59 pm EST December 2nd to leave comments on as many blogs as you can for the daily prizes.

Below is a list of the days and companies participating with Technique Junkies:

Monday – Joint Blog Hop with Classy Cards ‘n Such
Tuesday – Join Blog Hop with Rogue Redhead Designs
Wednesday – Joint Blog Hop with The Paper Temptress
Thursday – Joint Blog Hop with Mark’s Finest Papers
Friday – Joint Blog Hop with Sweet ‘n Sassy Stamps

Below is your list of blogs for the hop today:

Thanks for stopping by everyone, and good luck on the prizes too!

3D and Fun Folds Joint Blog Hop Day TWO

2011-11-28T22:04:00.000-08:00

DOUBLE TWISTED EASEL TECHNIQUE From the 3D and Fun Folds CD using Rogue Redhead Design stamps.

Hello and welcome to day 2 of the Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog Hop. There will be 3 more days to HOP after this one, so don't miss any. Today is the Rogue Redhead Designs and Technique Junkie Newsletter joint Blog Hop! The Technique Junkie Newsletter is excited to showcase their new 3D and Fun Folds CD. I am quite certain that after you see all the fun cards and projects created from this CD, it will be a MUST HAVE!

Please stop through EVERY DAY and take your time visiting each blog! You have until 11:59pm EST December 2nd to leave comments on as many blogs as you can to win the Grand Prize.

Monday – Joint Blog Hop with Classy Cards ‘n Such

Tuesday – Join Blog Hop with Rogue Redhead Designs
Wednesday – Joint Blog Hop with Paper Temptress
Thursday – Joint Blog Hop with Mark’s Finest Papers a Heinrich Company
Friday – Joint Blog Hop with Sweet ‘n Sassy Stamps
On Saturday, December 3, Pat from the Technique Junkie Newsletter will announce the winners from each company. Be sure to hop along on each day! There will be FIVE WINNERS! On Monday, December 5th, Pat will announce ONE LUCKY WINNER with a GRAND PRIZE with a bundle of prizes from all of the participating businesses.
If you have been following along already you should have come from Rogue Redhead Designs Blog. If you are only starting here, please head back to the Technique Junkie Blog and go from there. You won't want to miss any stops along the way – in order to win you will need to comment on everyone’s blog AND Pat Huntoon’s Blog. There will be an additional chance to win by playing along in her Blog Hop!

The Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog
Rogue Redhead Designs
Jackie Kalchert You are here
Beverly G.

Jean Franks Beck

Holly Brown
Jane Bosi
Laura Liddell
Joanne Wardle
Chris Dickinson
Stephanie Severin
Sharon Briss
Pat Huntoon

Thanks for stopping by and Good Luck!!!!

Technique Junkies Stampbooking CD

2011-11-13T16:52:00.000-08:00

This card uses the Tagged Background Tecnique. It is fun, fast, easy and effective. There are so many great techniques on this CD you don't want to miss. All paper is from The Paper Temptress. So yummy!

And the WINNER is!!!!!!

2011-11-10T20:00:00.000-08:00

By random integer the number 2 was chosen. The second comment was left by Julie Steele. CONGRATULATIONS Julie! You are the winner of the newest Technique Junkies CD ; 3D and Fun Folds. The CD will be mailed directly from Pat at TJ's.

You Can Win This CD!!!

2011-11-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

Both of these cards were made from projects on the new 3D and Fun Folds CD from Technique Junkies. There are over 70 gifts, cards and projects on the CD. It retails for $17.95 US and Canada,$19.95 for overseas. You can win it here just by leaving a comment. The winner will be chosen by random drawing on November 10th. Leave some love and good luck!!!

Sneak Peek from 3D CD Twisted Easel

2011-10-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

What a fun and interesting card this was to make. The focal image and verse are from I Brake for Stamps. The background image is from All Night Media. This CD is so versatile. It offers fun and different cards for all occasions as well as projects for gifts .
A gentle reminder...you can order the 3D CD right from here. Just look to the right side of the page and there you go.

Enjoy!

Perpetual Calendar from 3D CD!!!

2011-10-20T11:59:00.000-07:00

This was a really fun project and will make a lovely gift for a teacher, secretary or anyone for that matter.

There are over 60 projects on the CD, and as it is still being edited probably much more than that.

You will notice an ordering button on the right column that will allow you to get the CD from right here and pay for it too! What could be easier? Get yours today, you won't be sorry.

Framed Nesties

2011-08-30T13:50:00.001-07:00

This is a technique I developed for Technique Junkies. It appeared in the August newsletter. You can see in the first two photos that the window area is raised, giving it a lovely dimension. I hope you like them.

I am off for a weeks vacation to Oregon to spend time with my youngest son Ian and his family. I am really looking forward to it. It will be a relief to get out of this Arizona heat for awhile. I only wish it were going to be winter here when I return next week! LOL!

I hope all is well in your little corner of the world.

Tie Dye Chic

2011-08-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

There is a challenge over at Bella Creations. It is called the Bella Unique Challenge. This challenge is technique based and the Design Team at Technique Junkies have all done the Tie Dye Chic Embellishment technique from the Stampbooking CD. You can see all of the other design team members' beautiful creations at Technique Junkies Blog. The prize to be awarded by Bella Creations is the Stampbooking CD and a years worth of TJ online newsletters!! Good Luck!

That is my beautiful granddaughter Grace in the photo.

Another Great Technique from Technique Junkies

2011-07-23T22:37:00.000-07:00

This technique is called Spray Away. It is in the July issue of the
Technique Junkie newsletter What fun this technique is! It lends itself to all kinds of stamps and many compositions.

You Can Make One Too!!

2011-07-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

I always want a way to showcase the many cards I get as I consider each of them a work of art. Several years ago I purchased a wire thing from Pottery Barn that is used for photos. I have it above my desk. I like it, but not how much I had to pay for it, LOL! I have been on the hunt ever since. Well, I hit pay dirt and by that I mean DIRT CHEAP. I purchased a wire garden fence (those short ones you put around a flower bed) for $4 at Big Lots. $4 can you believe it? I must say it was a really nasty green color, but it was only $4!!!! I took it home and spray painted it black, used wire cutters and cut off the wires that stick into the ground. I then dismantled part of it, according to where I wanted to place it on my walls. I even had a large piece left over to give to my daughter to use for family photos. What a perfect and nice to look at display of my stamping friends art. No more having piles of cards here and there. Now they are just a glance away.

I hope this inspires you to make one yourself. Please leave me a comment if you make one , and tell me what you think. Have fun!!

My son Shane in the news on Channel 12

2011-01-29T14:32:00.000-08:00

To say I am proud of my son would be such an understatement.He is kind beyond measure, thoughtful,loving, generous and did I mention handsome? LOL! He is a HUGE blessing in my life. Truth be told, I am in awe of him and his abilities. He is a great son, a fabulous man, and an all around wonderful human being.
You make me proud Shane and I love you more than words can say!

She's Gonna be Famous!!!!

2011-01-28T20:25:00.000-08:00

You can read all about my granddaughter Ashlee's latest accomplishments HERE.
I love you Ash!

My sister turns 74!

2011-01-20T20:00:00.000-08:00

She is a mouse addict and saves all kinds except the real kind. So...what better a birthday card than House Mouse? No special techniques just a fun, simple and well appreciated card. BTW, my sister's name is Mickey (funny hey?) and she is no ordinary 74 year old. She is awesome and a very busy and active lady. Happy Birthday Sis!
Gotta love the Martha Stewart mouse edge punch. It's a "good thing." Sorry, couldn't help myself, LOL! All paper is from The Paper Temptress.

Ink to Paper in the name of Love

2011-01-07T23:45:00.000-08:00

It has been quite awhile since I have put ink to paper. Hearts in Touch had a challenge for Valentine cards and I found myself eager to participate. All images are from Hearts in Touch. I hope this is the beginning of many Inky Fingers!

Snow in the Desert

2011-01-04T10:52:00.001-08:00

This is something I have only seen one other time in the 25 years I have lived here.It snowed December 30th on and off all day. It didn't stick but it was a sight to see in contrast to the desert. No snow on the Superstitions but I guess you can't have everything. The winter isn't over yet!

That's My Boy!!!

2010-12-22T23:27:00.000-08:00

From the Arizona Republic newspaper:

Inspired by a leadership training class, Mesa business owner Shane Orlando used his construction skills to help others and learned about the East Valley Men's Center through a Google search.

Orlando had no idea that residents had complained about bed bugs at the shelter in May, or that University of Arizona entomologist Dawn Gouge had inspected the facility and compiled a list of recommendations on how to eradicate the annoying pests.

But within four days of touring the shelter in September, Orlando had developed a plan for gutting the building, removing wooden bed frames where the bugs were hiding and breeding, and custom-building new metal bed frames.

Orlando's efforts not only helped transform the center into a prime example of how to eliminate bed bugs, but his efforts in guiding the extensive $200,000 overhaul inspired six other Valley construction companies to donate hundreds of hours of work.

Orlando Restoration and a body shop joined six partners in volunteering an estimated 426 hours of work valued at more than $20,000.

"It seemed a little overwhelming when I first walked in. It looked like it would be more work than it really was," said Orlando, a former custom homebuilder.

The other companies' contributions made the work go more smoothly. Most of the job was completed in about five days.

"We found a lot of people wanted to help. They were just looking for someone to take the first step," Orlando said.

It was first in a series of surprises.

He soon realized that many shelter residents had been construction workers before the economic downturn left them unemployed. Orlando put some of them back to work as temporary employees and found satisfaction from counseling them about their lives.

"Most of the time, people hold themselves back. They are their own worst enemies," Orlando said. "We plan to help them more in the future, to boost morale and give them hope."

Residents lived in a tent behind the shelter while the renovations were under way, said Torrie Taj, A New Leaf's executive vice president for marketing and research development. They were required to wash all of their clothes to avoid reintroducing the bugs. A New Leaf is a non-profit that runs the shelter.

Taj said Gouge and Orlando offered to help without being solicited, but their efforts combined in a spectacular fashion. Taj lined up federal grant money from Chandler and the Arizona Department of Housing, but an estimated $60,000 is still needed to complete the project.

Mesa United Way is calling several benefactors, asking them if they would be willing to make a contribution, Taj said.

The renovations include two new buildings, one containing a modern kitchen and dining room, the other for storage of donations. An open house to showcase the renovations is planned for Jan. 26.

Along with the makeover to eliminate the bed-bug problem, the new buildings turned the old bingo hall into a virtually new campus. A new roof and air-conditioning were installed in 2008, and the electrical system was repaired.

The shelter opened as Margie's Place, named after the late advocate for the homeless, Margie Frost, in 1998 at 2345 N. Country Club Drive, in the Salt River's bottom.

Gouge had read a newspaper story about the shelter's bed-bug problem or been made aware of it by a colleague.

"It took us seconds to locate a hot spot" during an inspection, Gouge said.

A New Leaf was "totally on top of it," Gouge said, noting "they were taking steps in the right direction," but needed help to eradicate the bugs when pesticides and other procedures failed.

Gouge's suggestions included removing the wooden bed frames, eliminating a hiding and breeding ground for the bugs, and installing a new seamless floor that got rid of the space between the floor and walls where the critters also could hide.

She praised A New Leaf for acting on her suggestions.

"Most importantly, they had management and staff dedicated to solving the problem," Gouge said.

Orlando said he used Gouge's suggestions as almost a blueprint.

To this day, he and Gouge have never met.

"Her recommendations spawned my vision," Orlando said. "We took her report very seriously. We took anyplace where they might live out of here."
.

WOW!!!

2010-11-27T16:02:00.000-08:00

Is all I can say about this photo. It was taken the evening of our Thanksgiving get together as the moon was coming over the mountain. To say I am in love with this mountain would be a gross understatement. I have always felt a strong attraction to Superstition Mountain and to be living with it right in my back yard is a dream come true. My youngest son Ian took this photo through the lens of a telescope we had put in the yard all day. I thought that was so clever and plan on trying it myself.

I know it has been quite a while since I have posted. The summer was extremely difficult for me. I am so glad it is over. I am going to try my best to get all of my art on my blog ASAP, but realistically...it probably won't happen until after Christmas. So I just want to say a big hello to all that are following my blog and ask you not to give up on me...I will be back I promise.

Taste The Rainbow

2010-09-21T06:50:00.000-07:00

Well it has been some time now since I've posted. I have a lot of catching up to do. What could be a better place to start than to show you a photo of my gorgeous granddaughter Ashlee participating in a fashion show "Taste the Rainbow" at her university? She's a girl that beats to her own drummer, and that's one of the things I love the most about her. She's a beauty, inside and out. Love you Ash!!!

Win This Adorable Stamp

2010-07-23T15:26:00.000-07:00

All you need to do is go to: http://charmedcrafts.blogspot.com and enter before July 25th. I think she is so sweet and not too cutesy.

A Glimpse of who I REALLY am!

2010-07-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

That's my bumper sticker. Not the best photo but the sun is fierce here in Arizona at 112 degrees!! And there is no getting away from it. Yes, I was a child of the 60's. I still hold dear all the true meanings of that movement very close to my heart. Peace and Love ...we could all use more of that! Granted, I did a lot of kinda of crazy things (that I won't go into here, LOL!) but it was the true heart of the time that meant so very much to me, and still does today. Oh BTW, did I tell you I went to Woodstock? Did I mention my daughter was with me and she was 3 months old? 1969 was a great year all the way around for me. To this day, I can listen to Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young..Joe Cocker..Jimi Hendricks and be transported right back there after 40 years. I was a Flower Child and it was GROOVY!

And the WINNER is!!!!!!

2010-07-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

Chosen by Random. ORG Integer Generator

Drum Roll Please!
# 12
That would be Wendy Thrift from Australia! Congratulations Wendy! I will notify the Paper Temptress and she will mail your wonderful papers to you! I would love to post on my blog your creations and I'm sure the Paper Temptress would also.

BLOG CANDY!!!!

2010-06-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

Just leave a comment and you can win a 20 piece hand chosen package of my favorite card stock assortment from the Paper Temptress.

The first card is made with the Silver Laser Lustre line and I used Cryogen White (my most absolute favorite!!) to stamp the image on. The image is from Hearts in Touch. Frances has the most gorgeous Asian images. Truly they are the best around! I also wanted to show you how beautifully these papers emboss.

The second card was made with Silver Laser Lustre, Eclipse Black and Silver Sizzle Glossy. You will notice there are some text weight papers in the package. I use these for my mats as they keep the card light and therefore less postage. You may recognize the stamp I used but may be wondering what I did with it. Well I came across some fabric paint in my studio. It is the kind with the very thin nozzle. I stamped my image and then used the fabric paint as an outline to add dimension. It was fun and quite effective on the Silver Laser Lustre background paper.

So all you have to do is leave a comment. You have until June 30th. Exactly one week from today, I will pick a winner by random drawing.

GOOD LUCK!

More From This Month's Package

2010-06-16T14:07:00.001-07:00

Another project from Hearts in Touch Victorian Embellishmnet package.

Every Month Something Different

2010-06-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

I used this months embellishment package from Hearts in Touch to create this card. Every month Frances has a package of assorted papers, bellies, ribbon and more in various themes. This month theme was Victorian and the assortment was fabulous. The price is right at 15-20 dollars per month and they are really fun to work with. I embossed the vellum sheet with a Quikcuts embossing folder and got just the look I wanted to finish the card off.

A Blast From the Past!

2010-06-12T14:34:00.000-07:00

My niece Donna just purchased this VW bug. When we were both younger, I had one and we used to tool all around in it. Can you believe this car is 40 years old? It's really fabulous and we had our first ride in it together this morning. BTW, this photo was taken in my front yard. Peace out!

Once again..Great Paper & Great Techniques

2010-06-11T05:42:00.001-07:00

The new Technique Junkie newsletter is out and has some fabulous techniques. The above cards are examples of 3 of them. The first card is the Patchwork technique. The second card is a combination of the Pulled Glimmers and Up and Over techniques. You must believe me when I tell you...these would not look nearly as good on just any old paper. All paper is from The Paper Temptress and is of the very best quality around. There is no need to worry about the quality of the paper when it comes from The Paper Temptress, rest assured you will get the best paper that is out there!

Stay tuned !!!! In the next couple of days I will announce a giveaway of 20 pieces of Paper Temptress paper, hand chosen by me. I call it "A Few of My Favorite Things." You can also ALWAYS get a 15% discount on paper at PT by using the code jk15.

2010-05-26T17:20:00.001-07:00

Another Oriental Bellies Card

2010-05-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

It's really interesting when you get an assortment of papers and embellishments that you didn't choose yourself. Yes it's a challenge, but it is also a lot of fun. Case in point is the paper on the inside the card. Would I ever have chosen it? I doubt it. Did I have a bit of a hard time incorporating it into my design? You bet. Was it fun? Without a doubt!
I also used on this card Spellbinders Bamboo Edgabilities. This is no longer available, but I'm sure you could find it on EBay. I enhanced the embossed areas with gold rub and buff. Everything else is from Hearts in Touch. The stamp is from The Oriental Silhouettes sheet #105. The adornments are all from this months embellishments package which you can see in the post before this one.

BTW, look at the temperature to your right! It is a wonderfully cool day in the Desert Southwest! You can bet your lucky stars we won't be seeing many more (if any) days like this in the near future. The dreaded heat of the summer is fast approaching and we had our first 100 degree day just 2 days ago. But Oh I forgot! It's a dry heat, LOL!

See you next time!

Oriental Embellishment Package from Hearts in Touch

2010-05-17T07:42:00.000-07:00

What fun I have had making cards with the new Oriental bellies assortment from :

Hearts in Touch! It's a real bargain for just $15 plus postage. It truly takes the guess work out of what goes with what. Frances will have a new themed package every month. Why not join in the fun?

Arizona Weather

2010-05-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

To those of you that read my blog occasionally and to my Blog Followers, I was thinking that in the coming months you might get a kick out of seeing the weather here in Apache Junction, Arizona. SO on the right hand side bar you will see it. Now remember I am in the desert. Many of you will be shocked at how hot it gets here, and I think most of you will be relieved you don't live here, LOL! Either way it should be good for a chuckle. So when the summer hits Apache Junction with a vengeance, I hope you will notice the weather and leave a comment. I'm quite sure they will be interesting to read and a bit of fun for all. Do I have a weird sense of humor? It's either that or have heat stroke I suppose.

Everything is coming up Roses

2010-05-03T09:55:00.001-07:00

This gorgeous rose image and lovely sentiment are from Hearts in Touch. The sheets are
#125 HIT Flowers
#133 Hit Words and Sayings
I used a reverse mask technique to color the roses with chalk inks. It is a very soft and subtle look. I covered the card face with vellum and then stamped the sentiment and butterfly on the vellum.
TFL, See you back here real soon!

What a Wedding it Was!

2010-05-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

My most favorite, most beautiful, loving and generous only daughter Tracy was married on March 20th to her High School sweetheart Eddie. A great time was had by all but most importantly, I have never seen my daughter happier. Thank you Eddie from the bottom of my heart for that.

I just wanted to share this photo with all of my blogger friends and I hope there will be more photos to follow soon.

The Crumb Trail Has Lead You Here

2010-04-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

And you are at the right place!! Prairie Fairy and Paper Temptress have gone digital!

You will have until the end of Monday to make your way here and follow the directions to enter the drawing. Please leave a message/comment on the designers blogs, but be aware that this will NOT enter you in the contest. You will have to keep reading to get to what you really want to know, LOL!

My first card uses Prairie Fairy's digital image named "The Urge". I don't know why I was so amused by this image but it made me smile, and I couldn't wait to bring her to life. All the white you see is my very most favorite paper from The Paper Temptress: Cryogen White. It is a wonderfully smooth white cardstock with a sparkle that seems to hide beneath the surface. I just LOVE this paper and you will too! The other paper I used is Razzle Berry Pop Tones. I use Pop Tones quite a bit because I can always find a color that suits my project and it really does 'pop."

You have to love her hair, don'tcha think?

My second card uses Prairie Fairy's image "Lily" Actually, it uses it 3 times, LOL! Once again I used Paper Temptress' Cryogen White along with Orange Fizz Pop Tones. A nice combo I think. You can't go wrong with the paper from the Paper Temptress....it is simply the best there is!!!

FINALLY..what you have been waiting for. The info you need to enter the giveaway; You will need to enter the password: digital. Enter it here using this link. Good Luck!!!!

Had some fun today and made this card

2010-04-30T19:44:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed making this card as I was able to take my time and have fun. Images are from Hearts in Touch sheets #139 Backgrounds and #141 Strips B. I used Paper Temptress' HQ Watercolor Cotton paper to paint the image on. I cut the butterflies with my Cricut and the Indie Art cartridge.

A New Technique

2010-04-26T11:42:00.000-07:00

This is the Glitzy- Lace Technique from the most recent issue of Technique Junkies Newsletter.

The middle layer is the technique. Quite fun as the card is not the only thing that is glitzy, LOL! I couldn't capture the shimmer in the photo, I am sorry to say. So just imagine it in microfine glitter , mauve and brown.

Getting Ready for the Summer

2010-04-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well I am a year older and the summer is well on it's way. Remember I live in Arizona, in the desert where it gets to 120 degrees in the summer!!!! So the ritual has begun with a new hairdo. I have to have my hair off of my neck in the summer, and although you can't see it in the photo, the back is shorter than the front. This was a birthday gift from my DD Tracy. I love you and you are my favorite daughter.
I promise my next entry will be art related, LOL!

Playing with Paper Temptress Watercolor Paper

2010-04-22T12:38:00.001-07:00

I was in the mood to get messy, LOL! Out came the color sprays for the clear embossed resist technique. I used Paper Temptress' HQ Watercolor Cotton paper for the first time and I am so impressed. It is a really thick, highly absorbent paper that takes well to inks, color sprays, watercolors, paints and watercolor markers as well. You can find it here, it's a bit difficult to find so do a search for watercolor paper. Don't forget to use code jk15 for 15% off your purchase.

Still playing with the HIT April embellishment package

2010-04-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

I must say that being a stamping purist LOL! I am a bit out of my comfort zone using all of this beautiful stuff. It's been a challenge but also SO much fun! I am still amazed at how well all the paper goes together. All the prints, florals and geometrics match without a bit of effort. Then you add all the ribbons and hard bellies and it's magic! So Hearts in Touch once again has created a sure winner in my book. The image is from Hearts in Touch sheet # 129 I Love Silhouettes. The instructions for this card and many others by Penny Wessenauer can be found here.

Fun stuff to play with at Hearts in Touch!!

2010-04-17T14:39:00.001-07:00

There is something new at Hearts in Touch! Frances is putting together coordinating embellishment packages every month. The first months is in the photo above. How cool is that? For only $12.50 plus postage you get so much for your money. I can't wait until next month as the theme will be oriental which will go with so many of Frances' stamps.

This image is from Sheet # 94 Sugar and Spice. I love this sheet and the embellishments show it off perfectly!

Double Diamond Card

2010-04-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

I guess I have had a "thing" about making Mother's Day cards. Wish my mom was still alive...I would give her each and every one of them.

Instructions for this card can be found here

The image is from Hearts in Touch sheet #94 Sugar and Spice.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Mother's Day

2010-04-10T19:28:00.001-07:00

I was in the mood to do something a little different so I thought I would do a framed piece that could be used as a gift. The image is from Hearts in Touch and all paper except for the daisy scrapbook paper is from The Paper Temptress. I used The PT Ultimate Glossy to stamp the photo art stamp on. This paper gives you a nice crisp image. I am preparing a tutorial for The Paper Temptress about getting a good image with photo art stamps and PT paper. Patricia carries quite a few papers that work extremely well with photo art stamps. So stay tuned here and on the Paper Temptress Community Blog for the tutorial in the near future.

It's a Wake up Call

2010-04-10T16:59:00.000-07:00

Just a bit of playing around with the new Masked Spellbinders technique from the most recent issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. Stamp is from Stamps Happen and all paper is from The Paper Temptress. BTW, if you look on my side bar, you can get a 15% discount at the Paper Temptress by using my code which is jk15.

Hearts in Touch Rubber Stamps

2010-04-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

This card uses two different Oriental sheets from HIT. I LOVE all of the Oriental sheets that Frances has to offer at Hearts in Touch. The focal image is from sheet #105 HIT Oriental.The added elements are from sheet #138 Geisha Photos. I used a new technique from Technique Junkies called Masked Spellbinders. It is a fun and effective technique for highlighting an image. This is my first attempt at this technique, but one I will be trying again for sure.

Little Girls have been my Motivation

2010-03-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

Gracie's birthday has motivated me to make some "girly" cards. It's been fun, especially when you are blessed enough to work with fabulous paper and stamps. I am so very grateful to Frances Naeve owner of Hearts in Touch rubber stamps, and Patricia Dunbar, owner of The Paper Temptress, for having me as a part of their design teams.

Birthday card for my sweet granddaughter Gracie

2010-03-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

Just a little something using my Cricut Pagoda cartridge and Hearts in Touch stamps. It feels good to be back to creating! Gracie will be 4 years old on the 31st of this month.She thinks she is 20!

Showcasing Hearts in Touch Stamps

2009-12-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

Gingersnap Creations is featuring Hearts in Touch stamps all month long. Each week there is a different challenge. I made the following cards for the Color Challenge. The colors were purple, green and gold, which just happens to be one of my favorite color combos!
The First cards uses an image from HIT #137 Antique Swirls sheet.
The second card uses an image from HIT # 125 HIT Flowers sheet.

Herringbone Horses

2009-12-05T12:54:00.000-08:00

So here is another Herringbone Technique card, The image and sentiment are both from Impression Obsession. I used faux flower soft for the horses hats. You make faux flower soft by rubbing two styrofoam balls together. That's all folks!

Two Great Techniques

2009-12-02T15:34:00.000-08:00

The most recent newsletter from Technique Junkies is so awesome! These are just 2 of the fabulous techniques from it. I used the Bleached Swipes technique on the image and the Herringbone technique on the background paper. The tag image is from Hero Arts.If you don't subscribe to Technique Junkies newsletter, you don't know what you are missing!

Let There Be Peace

2009-12-01T08:43:00.000-08:00

This is a sneak preview of a Christmas card I will be posting on the Paper Temptress blog in a day or so. I love these micro beads from Stamp La Jolla, but I forget to use them. They really add elegance to a card. I also used Spellbinders Fleur De Les pendant die to add a bit more pizazz. All paper is from the Paper Temptress of course!

Geisha Shaker Card

2009-11-17T13:54:00.000-08:00

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Hearts in Touch has several new stamp sheets out and one of them is GeishaPhotos.It is unbelievably gorgeous as you can see

I was inspired to do something a bit different, so I made a shaker card. I used the new Shaker pouches from Impression-Obsession, and boy did it make the process easier!

All paper except for the patterned paper is from The Paper Temptress. Look how fabulous the embossing is on the top portion of the card. I used a Sizzix embossing folder, but the paper is what makes the difference! All of Patricia's paper embosses so perfectly!

Thanks for stopping by!

Does Anyone Want to Barter???

2009-11-17T13:51:00.000-08:00

I have the original Cricut machine and I am willing to barter for some other art supplies in exchange for it. Of course you would have to pay the postage.

Make me an offer!

Home for the Holidays

2009-11-16T13:19:00.001-08:00

I am so happy to be getting my blog up to date.It is wonderful to be sharing my art once again with all of you!
This card was interesting to make. I knew all the elements I wanted to use, it just took a bit of time and thought to put them all together. All the gorgeous paper paper is from the Paper Temptress and the stamp is from Hearts in Touch new Christmas sheet. I also used Spellbinder's Fleur De Lis Pendant, Scallopped Circles die cuts and two Cuttlebug embossing folders. Of course I had to add a bit of bling too, LOL! The die cuts are mounted with pop dots to add dimension to the project.
I think this card would fall into the "simply elegant" category...not too much fuss, but effective.
I hope you like it!
See you soon.

"Clearly" It's Thanksgiving

2009-11-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday! Not because of all the good food (although I admit that's a HUGE bonus) but because of family. Everyone lives very busy lives. It is so very wonderful to have the entire family together for Thanksgiving. With my four children and their spouses, along with my 12 fabulous grandchildren, it is joyous chaos, LOL! All I have to do is glance around the room to count my many blessings.
This card uses paper from the Paper Temptress and stamps from Hearts in Touch. I am blessed to be a small part of each of these fabulous companies. Designing for such wonderful, generous women is indeed something to be thankful for!

So to all of my friends, family and those who follow my blog...have a safe holiday. Don't forget to count your blessings!

Christmas Sparkle

2009-11-14T12:36:00.000-08:00

This was a really fun card to do. It is showcased on both Hearts in Touch blog and the Paper Temptress Community blog.

I fused some Angelina fibers together between two pieces of copy paper and then adhered them to a piece of card stock. I then covered it with a piece of acetate adhered to the card stock piece with the fibers with spray adhesive, and stamped on the acetate. All paper is from The Paper Temptress and all stamps are from Hearts in Touch.

Thanks for looking

I've Been Published

2009-11-12T17:26:00.000-08:00

In the September issue of Vamp Stamp News.It is the card in the upper left hand corner. I actually started this card well over a year ago when I was visiting my dear friend Chris in Australia. I had the basic background and image done on the canvas and then packed it in my suitcase. It wasn't until many months after my return that I actually finished it. The rest is history as they say.
I have submitted a Christmas card to VSN and will see next month if it gets published or not. Wish me luck!

Cruise Photos

2009-11-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

Cruising with Tim Holtz and Wendy Vecchi

2009-11-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

October 11- October 18

We left San Pedro port the morning of the 11th on the Royal Caribbean Mariner of the Seas. WOW! What a luxurious ship that one is...and HUGE.

You can can the idea of the size by the photo. I think there were 3500 passengers. Not all of them were in the art part, or Tim wouldn't be alive today, LOL! The food was magnificent, the service top rate and the entire experience was almost too good to be true.

We traveled to Mexico, with port stops at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vaharta. Let me tell you it was so hot and humid. Next time I cruise to Mexico, it will be in the winter.

We had great fun in Tim and Wendy's classes and made some really fun projects. The first photo you see is of my journal. We made these in class and I actually did manage to document all the happenings.

The photo past the ship is the classroom with Tim teaching as only he can do!

The next photo is actually 2 projects. The necklace made from the fragments, we made in Wendy's class. The necklace with the hardware and key, we made in Tim's class. Both classes were interesting and fun.

Next you will see a cork board we made in a class with Wendy. Mine is already plastered to my studio door for inspiration

Next is a pendant we made with Tim. It was really wonderful to learn how to use his Ideology line and how to put it all together.

Lastly is a shadow box made with Tim. I really liked this project, as it is more my "style". Don't get me wrong...I will be wearing the jewelery and using that cork board.

So there you have a very brief description of what we all made on this wonderful artful adventure at sea. I have much more to cover on the cruise subject but that's all for now.

BTW, Tim is cruising next fall along the east coast of the states. Should be a beautiful time with all the fall foliage to admire. If you can cruise with Tim, I would have to say "GO FOR IT!"

I am Blessed

2009-11-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

I am often amazed at what a small world this is. The internet has had a lot to do with that. I "met" Shirley Ross on one of my online groups. I have "met" many people online. BUT...every once in a while a friendship blossoms. This has been the case with Shirley. She is a lovely person with a huge heart, a generous spirit and a wonderful sense of humor. I am blessed to call her my friend.

Shirley sent me both of the above cards. I LOVE getting cards from her as she has such an eye for detail, and I can admire them for hours.

So thank you Shirley. Not only for the cards but for your friendship!!

Embossed Elegance

2009-08-25T14:35:00.000-07:00

I made this card for the Paper Temptress blog to show how perfectly her paper embosses in embossing folders or with texture plates. It is a simple card, that is fast and easy. The embossing of these fabulous papers makes it look elegant I think. I wish I were a better photographer.

My Second Project for the Guest Designer party!

2009-08-21T12:19:00.001-07:00

So here is my second project for this event. I decided to make a note card box. It contains note cards with matching lined envelopes, and would make a lovely gift. For this project I used stamps from Hearts In Touch In The Garden sheet. It is a beautiful sheet of stamps and very versatile.I used Paper Temptress' Teal Felt Grandee paper, White Felt Grandee, Starburst Lichen, and Cryogen White. I cannot tell you how beautiful a combination Hearts in Touch stamps and The Paper Temptress' paper is. You will just have to try it for yourself. So don't forget to leave a comment on both of these blogs: The Paper Temptress. and Hearts in Touch .
Enjoy and Good Luck!

Paper Temptress is August Guest Designer for Hearts in Touch

2009-08-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

I used Hearts in Touch Flourishes sheet for this card. I adore this dragon. It is accented with red crystals as well as the medallion on the top of the card. I used Paper Temptress Columns Epic Black and Retro Gold Glossy Lustre. It is a striking combination IRL! I have more to post from these two marvelous companies, and will do so later today.So here is the really good news...at the end of the month a wonderful prize will be given away. A Fabulous paper package from The Paper Temptress AND a full sheet of stamps from Hearts In Touch!! All you have to do is go to the Paper Temptress blog and the Hearts in Touch blog and leave a comment. A winner will be randomly chosen. What could be better than free stuff? Especially when it's such good quality stuff. Oh I forgot to mention; you get to choose the stamp sheet you would like! Now what company does that? You usually have to take whatever they send you. That alone makes leaving a comment even more worthwhile. So stop by the blogs and leave a comment.

It's a Pear Thing again

2009-08-12T08:38:00.000-07:00

So once again I will say, "I have no earthly idea why I love pears so much." Perhaps it's a body image thing, LOL! No real stamping talent shown on these cards, as I used my Cricut Joys of the Season cartridge to cut out the card. I am so happy it has a pear in the cartridge! So I hope you enjoy them anyway. I had a great time coloring the pears.

Paper Temptress is Guest Designer for Hearts in Touch

2009-08-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

This is like a dream come true, LOL! I get to use my favorite stamps :Hearts in Touch, along with my favorite papers from The Paper Temptress.

This card is a gate fold card and I used stamps from In my Garden sheet, along with Starburst Lichen and Canyon Brown Columns paper from PT. Can you believe how beautifully the Starburst Lichen embosses? It is picture perfect and so textural.

I know I have not posted in a very long time and I have much catching up to do. I have so many cards to post using PT paper and HIT stamps. I am hoping to find time very soon.

And the Winner Is.........

2009-05-09T07:24:00.000-07:00

Sue Thiel! Congratulations Sue!
The winner was chosen by Random.org. which scrambles the entries and picks one. There were 62 comments and Random.org chose comment #25 which turned out to be Sue.
Thanks for playing everyone. I hope to see you all at my next give away!

Blog Candy Give Away!

2009-05-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

This is a dynamic duo giveaway. You have a chance t0 win Hearts in Touch Structures sheet # 123, along with a paper assortment from Paper Temptress.

Both of the above cards use Cryogen White paper from PT. It is a yummy sparkly paper and the sparkle shows through whatever coloring medium you choose. The second card also uses Flower Soft Vintage Christmas on the trees on both sides of the house.

Leave a comment and a winner will be chosen by random.org by next Saturday May 9th.

GOOD LUCK!!!

Visit The Paper Temptress blog to see all the new sales!

Visit the Hearts in Touch blog to see all the new stamps sheets!

News Print Reveal Technique

2009-04-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

This is a new technique from Technique Junkies. If you don't subscribe and you love techniques, what are you waiting for?

I love how this card came out and I especially love the rivets on the bottom. They look like Levi rivets, don't you think? Next time I make this card, I will try it in denim.

Enjoy!

Checkbook and Beaded Pen Gift Set

2009-04-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

I made this project for the Paper Temptress Blog. I used Velvet Touch cream paper which is just wonderful. It has such a lovely feel to it and takes ink like it was made for it. After I let the ink dry a bit, I blended the images together with my finger. The ink seemed to just "melt" into the paper. All stamps are from Hearts in Touch.

Clocks for Gifts

2009-04-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

I made these clocks for the Paper Temptress blog, using all of the wonderful papers she has to offer.

Here are the instructions:

Cut one piece of c/s to 4 1/2 x 11 inches. This will be the outer part of the clock.

Cut another piece of c/s to 4 1/4 x 11 inches. This will be the center part or mat.

Attach both pieces together with d/s tape so that you have an even border between the two pieces of c/s ( as you would when layering a card front.)

Score at 3 3/8 inches from one side

Score at 3 1/8 inches from the other side.

Now when you fold it, you should have a 4 1/2 square center.

When you purchase your clock works (easily found at most craft stores and inexpensive) make sure you buy one with a short shaft, or else it will protrude too far out from the base of the clock.

Find the center of the piece by measuring from corner t corner on opposite sides and mark where the lines intersect.

Make a hole large enough to fit the clock works into. You may have to pad the back of the card to the clock works to make it sturdy. I use mounting tape for this.

Now you can improvise on these instructions and add embellishments to your clock. I did mine a bit different for the Father;s Day clock. I only used the 4 1/2 sheet of paper ( a sturdy weight) and then cut the center piece 4/1/4 square.

I hope you will give it a try. Email me if you have any questions.

Something New is always Good!

2009-03-28T08:51:00.000-07:00

And this new Flowers stamp sheet from Hearts in Touch is no exception. All cards use the Cryogen White paper from the Paper Temptress to stamp the focal image on. This paper is sparkly and no matter what coloring medium you use, the sparkle shows through. It's totally yummy!

Another dynamic duo!

2009-03-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

You can't go wrong when you pair stamps from Hearts in Touch with paper from the Paper Temptress. The focal image is from Hearts in Touch and it is stamped on Laser Gold Glossy Lustre from the Paper Temptress. The Happy Birthday stamp is from Club Scrap.

Thanks for visiting!

Very Tempting Paper!!!

2009-02-28T14:27:00.000-08:00

Patricia from The Paper Temptress generously sent me some samples of her paper. All I can say is WOW! I used a piece of Silver Laser Lustre to stamp my image onto. The ink takes to this paper like magic. It seems to float on the top on the lines and fall into the unlined parts so beautifully. I made this card and I used an image from Hearts in Touch. Enjoy!

The many faces of "my" mountain

2009-02-10T15:00:00.000-08:00

The Superstition Mountain range is right in my backyard. It is a wonderful sight and I never tire of looking at it. I wait all year for the one or two days that there "might" be some snow on "my" mountain. Today was the day! A glorious sight awaiting me as I was waking up. I live in the desert, so this is the only time I see snow and that's just the way I like it. I had to drive about 1 mile away to get these photos, as I live too close to take the photos from my home (lucky me!) I LOVE living in the desert and these mountains make it all the more spectacular! I hope you enjoy the photos.

Stringing you along

2009-02-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

A new techinque from the lastest Technique Junkie newsletter. It is really fun and the possibilities are endless with this technique.I hope you enjoy my examples.

Victorian Valentine

2009-01-29T14:02:00.000-08:00

I had a lot of fun making this card as I really love the vintage look. I hope you enjoy it.

What could be Sweeter?

2009-01-19T13:31:00.000-08:00

Than Valentine's day? Gotta love all the chocolate! But what would it be without the cards? So here are a few that I have been making over the past couple of weeks. Thanks for looking, I hope you come back soon.All stamps from Hearts in Touch.

Such A DEAL!!!!!

2009-01-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

Have you beem yearning for all the new fabulous Nestibilities? Well,have I got a deal for you. You can preorder them at Hearts in Touch. That's not all. If you buy 3 you get one free with free postage. Postage is free no matter how many you purchase. So pop on over to Hearts in Touch and preorder yours today!

I've been published!

2009-01-02T14:51:00.000-08:00

In the January 2009 issue of VSN. It is always an honor to be published but this time I am particularly pleased. I am a design team member for Hearts in Touch and both the card on the cover and center page were done with Frances' stamps. I love her stamps and this will I hope send some business her way. If you haven't checked out Hearts in Touch, you should. My card on the front is the one that says SOAR and the center card is the one with the gate.

Christmas cards received 2008

2009-01-01T13:53:00.001-08:00

Oh Baby it's cold outide!

2008-12-27T09:38:00.000-08:00

I am not complaining. I know my family and friends in other parts of these great United States are having REALLY bad weather, but for me here in Arizona in the middle of the desert, this is a first. It is really cold. As you can see the water in my bird bath is frozen and the back yard table had 1/4 inch of frozen frost on it this morning. I only know this because I went out in the wee hours to see if there was snow on my mountian. At least once a winter the Superstitions do have snow capped peaks but this morning, it was not to be. It is something I look forward to seeing every year. Maybe tomorrow!

Artichokes!!!

2008-12-25T12:03:00.000-08:00

Where do I begin about artichokes? A family favorite that I usually make for Thanksgiving but made them for Christmas this year. I am so pleased that I didn't make them for Thanksgiving because my 14 Year old grandson JP LOVES them, and he wasn't with us for Thanksgiving. SO this was a complete surprise to me. I had no earthly idea that JP loved my stuffed artichokes so much until his step mother Anne sent me a paper he had written for school.Of course it made me weep. Funny how you never really know what an effect something you do has on another person. SO here is JP's paper:
Jonathan Pitts
My favorite food
My favorite food would have to be my Nan’s stuffing artichokes. They are the best and she makes them every Thanks Giving.
She makes it the best. She usually pulls it out of the oven when were about to eat. It smells like heaven. When you get it, it’s steaming and when u peel a pointy leaf of the artichoke stuffing comes off with it too and u just get a mouth full of warm stuffing and artichoke.
The artichokes are just like a transportation tool but they do add flavor. The stuffing melts in your mouth, but every year it gets better and better. Everyone says the same thing every time they eat it all at the same time because it’s the first thing every one eats. “Yumm” they all say.
This is my favorite food and I look forward to this holiday every year and it is all ways the best thing cooked and “you could die for it” as I say.

The first photo is of JP eating his artichoke. Isn't he sweet? Too cute for words but what else would a Nanny say about her grandson? The second photo is of my daughter Tracy, my youngest son Ian, his wife Anne and my son Shane in the background. The third photo is my daughter Tracy, my son Ian and his wife Anne. The fourth photo is my son Shane and my oldest grandson Ryan. The fifth photo is my son Jason, my DIL Anne, my grandson Ryan, and my son Shane. When the artichokes are served as THE appetizer, it is somewhat like a ritual. There isn't a sound to be heard except for the UMMS and YUMS that JP mentioned.I have to make about 20 artichokes for our family and it is not easy.It takes hours to prepare them all and many more hours to finally cook them. Every year under my breathe, I say a few nasty words and say to myself; "I wish I never started making these **** things!" But when I see the enjoyment on every one's faces it makes it all worthwhile.

Shirley Ross spoils me

2008-12-20T12:58:00.000-08:00

She sent me this lovely sample of the watercolor resist technique from the December-January issue of Technique Junkie newsletter. Shirley was a guest designer for this issue and did a fabulous job. Thanks once again Shirley for thinking of me. I will never tire of receiving your creations.If you haven't been to Shirley's' blog yet, you should take the time to visit. You won't be disappointed. Her blog is:
Card Art,Etc.

It's Official!

2008-12-16T09:44:00.000-08:00

The deposits are paid and we will be cruising with Tim Holtz in October 2009. When I say we, I mean my dear friend Chris from Down Under and myself of course.We are going first class in a balcony cabin, WHOOO HOOO! If you have followed my blog, you know I went on Tim's cruise to Alaska this past May. It was great fun and it was cold! A balcony cabin would have gone to waste on that cruise. But in Mexico, it will be perfect.I can hardly wait!

Christmas card from my TJ friend Shirley Ross

2008-12-13T10:54:00.000-08:00

It is always lovely to receive a handmade card but when the return address is Shirley Ross' you know it's going to be special.I am continually in awe of Shirley's eye for detail and how precise she is with whatever medium she chooses to use.Thank you for thinking of me Shirley at this most busy time of year.

Did you know???

2008-12-04T21:26:00.000-08:00

I have this crazy fixation on pears? I don't know when it started but it seems ever since I started stamping (a very long time ago) I have had a thing about pears. I know I am not alone as I have several friends that are the same quirky way about pears. So it shouldn't be any surprise that when I saw the Cricut cartridge Joys of the Season and noticed it had a pear in it, I HAD to get it.Well it's so cool as you can do so much with it as you can see on the card. The card face has the pear cut out in the middle, and the tag has the pear cut out also.I made this card for a friend in Australia and yes, you guessed it, she loves pears too.

Pearl Crazy!

2008-11-30T11:33:00.000-08:00

This CB embossing folder just cried out BLING! So out came the pearls and I went pearl crazy. ENJOY!

Oh! What a Beautiful Morning!!!!

2008-11-29T15:08:00.000-08:00

I went flying this morning with my youngest son Ian at the controls. What a fabulous time I had and how happy I was to be flying with my son. He has had his private pilots license for several years now and has had the plane for a few years. It is an awesome feeling for a mother when a child lives his dreams. It made the ride so meaningful. Thanks son. I can't wait to do it again soon!
We flew all around the East Valley but most importantly..."my mountain." I am struck every day by the shear beauty of the Superstition Mountains which are in my back yard.We also flew over my house which is in the photo off the wing. I had to get a quick photo of Four Peaks which is the mountain off in the distance. It was a beautiful morning and it will always be one of my fondest memories..

Simple little Shaker card

2008-11-24T11:52:00.000-08:00

I passed my jar of snow this morning and it cried out "shaker card"; so here it is. I used the CB EF Snowflakes and the circle nestabilities. Fast, fun and easy!

Boomerang November Sketch Challenge

2008-11-14T16:05:00.001-08:00

This was a fun challenge for my Australian group. They have a sketch challenge every month and the winner is randomly drawn and receives all of the cards.

Another circle punch card

2008-11-12T07:30:00.000-08:00

It has finally started to cool off here in Arizona. With the temperature in the 70's, I was compelled to make a fall card and here it is. Although the cacti never change color, LOL! It feels like fall anyway.

It won't be long now!

2008-11-10T09:16:00.000-08:00

With Chistmas just around the corner, I made this card to motivate myself to get going on my Christmas cards for this year. There is a tutorial for this cut out circle using a paper punch and Nestabilities here:

http://www.amazingpapergrace.com/circle-frame-tutorial/

Give it a try, it's easier than it appears.

Grandchild # 12

2008-11-06T17:58:00.000-08:00

Luke weighed in at a whopping 9lb 10oz! My son Shane and DIL Heather's fourth child.He is so beautiful and I love him so much already.I now have 9 grandsons and 3 granddaughters. The more the merrier.

Thank You Shirley Ross

2008-11-04T15:12:00.000-08:00

My friend and fellow Technique Junkie Shirley Ross sent me this fabulous card some time ago. I just unearthed it today while cleaning up my craft room. Shirley has such an eye for detail as you can see from this card. What you might not be able to see is the detail on the cupcakes. Shirley has used Glossy Accents and Liquid Embroidery as well as some gems and tiny crystals (I think.) I wish you could see it in real life, it's awesome! To see more of Shirleys art please go to her blog Card Art, Etc http://www.cardartetc.blogspot.com/

Thanks Shirley!

Christmas Double Slider Card

2008-10-31T19:53:00.000-07:00

This will be the last of the double slider cards which have been quite fun to make. This card features Christmas stamps from Hearts in Touch. Please visit Hearts in Touch at www.heartsintouch.com and tell Frances that Jackie sent you.

Double Slider cards

2008-10-27T15:20:00.000-07:00

I have never been good at construction cards but I had a challenge from one of my groups. These are fun and easy. I found the technique on Splitcoast Stampers.

My last stained glass spray paint card

2008-10-24T15:29:00.001-07:00

I love this pear from Innovative Stamp Creations. Again I used the reverse masking technique. Time to put these paints away and move on.

Back to the Krylon Stained Glass spray paint

2008-10-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

I used reverse masking to make the moon and sprayed it with yellow. When dry, I used the circle to cover the moon and sprayed with blue and purple. Eclipse Tape is the best product to use for this and any other masking technique.I enhanced the moon with Adirondak terra cotta and a cosmetic sponge.