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Thursday, December 31, 2009

Sweet N Sassy Love Birds

Today is a new release at Sweet N Sassy Digis! and I am a guest designer for them for January! woooo hoooooo! how exciting!!!! So I wanted to show you a card I made using this beautiful digi called Love Birds.

The paper is from the K & Co. Que Sera Sera collection. I added some vintage buttons and flowers, a doily, a fun tea tag ( this is the re-purposing I have been talking about - doesn't it look cool?! ), and some May Arts ribbon. This digi is just beautiful. It is wonderful for Valentine's Day, but also for lots of other occassions.

Thank you for sharing with me in the excitement of my new crafting ventures! 2010 promises to be a fun year!

A Fond Farewell to Rusty Pickle......

Coffee of the Day - Creme Brulee

The end of the year brings a time to say goodbye to many things, one of which is the end of my term with The Rusty Pickle DT. I was truly blessed to serve on this team with such amazing talent. and blessed, too, because what was supposed to be a short one month term was actually extended to two. Most of the women will be continuing on, and I know you will visit their blogs and the store often, as will I. Best of luck to you, Michelle!

It just seemed appropriate for my last card with them to be a coffee card! and isn't this little guy adorable?! oh my, I am like him most days, begging for 'another please......'! :) The paper here is K & Co. Wild Raspberry. I think for me the sentiment would be better if it said two POTS rather than two cups....... but addicted to coffee..... nah!

I hope as this year closes out, you can reflect upon all that you have learned, all those you have loved, and most of all, the One who has never left your side!

Smooches! Jennifer

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

A Happy little duck..... and some MOST exciting news! :)

Coffee of the Day - Vanilla Biscotti

Good morning! As I was getting my card package ready to mail off to Stef and Clyde (see yesterday's post), I realized that this cutie little duck card had never been posted on my blog before. oh the HORRORS!!! :D but really, this card always made me smile, so here's hoping it brings a bit of a grin to Stef. and just a bit of an update, her hubby made it home last night from the hospital. yippppeeeee! I would be splashing in the puddles like this little guy, too! He does have more appointments for follow-ups, but prayers for a COMPLETE healing are going up like wildfire!!

Papers for this precious little card come from October Afternoon. This is actually the same sheet of paper, just both sides. isn't is adorable?! they have some of the most fun designs!!! I was super-dee-duper blessed a few weeks ago and won the blog hop prize over at Jacksonbelle Embellishments - a sheet of every Oct. Afternoon paper she carries! boy was that a happy mail day! Thanks, Lindsey! okay, I digress like I always do....... The digi comes from Digital Ink, but I don't know if it is available any longer. The sentiment is from Studio G, flower is Prima, ribbon is actually some old purchased from a retro Etsy seller. pin comes from Maya Road.

Now on to the news.......... I have been chosen along with 13 other fabby ladies to be a 'Lady With Attitude' DT member with Shirleys 2 Girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It took me all day yesterday to process the news! I am on top of the mountain with this!!! I will get my blog updated ASAP with the other blogs and blinkies and all of the good stuff, but gosh, this is truly a dream come true! You can head to the blog for more info, and p.s. check out the store for a huge sale & some fabby-licious buttons that have me drooling! :)

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

A Get Well Squirrel

Coffee of the Day - Pumpkin Spice
Holy Toledo, Batman, do you realize it has been almost a week since I last posted?! shame shame shame on me! Well hopefully now that the holidays are over and there are no more icky yucky blechy trips to the hospital for tests on the horizon, things will settle back down to the normal chaotic hum of life around here. ;) don't get me wrong - Christmas has a LOT of meaning, but goodness, we let it get so crazy sometimes. and the people at the hospital and doctors' offices are very nice, but gosh oh me, I am so tired of going for tests and stuff. so there. back to crafty fun time! as Cptn. Jon Luc Picard says, "Make it so......" giggles! yep, there is that nerdy side coming out in me again......

On to the card for today......

I found a neat challenge blog called The Sweet Stop and it is sponsored by Sweet n Sassy Stamps. I decided to play in this week's challenge, as I found I needed a get well card. A dear blogging and crafting friend, Stef of Glitterbabe Greetings, let us know Christmas Eve that her husband had been rushed to the hospital with a heart attack. All around the crafting community people have been gathering together to pray for them. Hopefully Clyde will be coming home today, but there had been a few complications that arose while he was in the hospital. Stef has just the brightest outlook and has been trusting that her dear hubby is resting in God's healing hands this entire time. Well, we all know that, but it can still be a lonely time, and a scary one, too. So dear sweet Holly over at the Squigglefy SNR forum decided to host a challenge for people to create get well cards for Clyde. I was gonna make one anyhow, but wanted to do my part to rally around. Isn't it cool how people from different stamping companies, etc. can come together to just love on someone?! man, that is the love of Jesus in action right there for ya! gives me goosebumps thinking about it! and makes my heart sing LOUD!!!! :)

So here is my creation. Had to keep the frills and frou frou to a minimum, but wanted it to be a little fun also. Used the squirrel digi from The Rusty Pickle and typed out a sentiment. Did some repurposing of materials on here as well. The leaves in the upper right hand corner were actually punched from a Starbuck's coffee cozy I had saved and wrinkled prior to punching. The twine in the buttons came from a bag of dog food. papers are Making Memories.

By the way, while on the subject of recycling, repurposing, & re-using, last night I was honored to receive an invitation from none other than Deanne Burton herself to become a member of her card DT at Create It - GREEN. There will be challenges and other fun things coming up in the new year, so be on the look out! I am very excited about this, as doing a lot of repurposing is at the top of my resolution list for 2010.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

A Poinsettia Fruitcake Angel

Coffee of the Day - Pumpkin Spice

Now here is a combo for ya - pumpkin spice coffee, an angel holding fruitcake, and lots of poinsettias surrounded by plenty of glitter & bling! wow - it must be Christmas time! :D

There really wasn't a Twisted Thursday challenge over at Shirleys 2 Girls this past week - everyone was just supposed to show their Christmas cards. Well, since I had been sick recently, I never really got around to making multiples of any card. We just ended giving out a few, and they were ones I had already made. (Other than the ones David requested for Camp and the Church District office anyhow.) And I felt compelled to use a S2G image, but realized I only had 1 - this Christmas Fruitcake angel. I think she is so much fun, and the other card I made using her was a big hit with the receiver.

The paper is by K & Co. from the Evergreen collection. I love the color combo! So unique! Her wings and crown are painted with shimmerz. The plate is inked with my glitter pen. I used a gold gel pen to outline the main image on the matted & distressed piece, as well as around the dp on the card base. The Prima poinsettias have stickles in the centers as well as a bit rubbed on the card base edges and the centers of the poinsettia on the dp. Ribbon is May Arts. I am having such fun using sequins on my cards lately. They add a bit of old world/retro style.

Have a beautiful Christmas! much love to you and your families!
Jennifer

Monday, December 21, 2009

Chip Off the Old Block Challenge

Coffee of the Day - Eggnog

Well Monday is Whimsy Stamps Challenge day! and the challenge for today is called "Chip Off the Old Block". use any kind of chipboard on your creation and upload it to the challenge blog using Mr. Linky. because of the holiday, you will have 2 weeks for this challenge. Also, don't forget that the Advent Event is going on each day through the 24th. Be sure to check out the neat creations and prizes offered each day. Also stop by the challenge DT members' blogs to check out their interpretations of the chipboard challenge. They are such talented ladies, and you will truly be inspired! :)

My card is made using papers by K & Co. Christmas Cheer. The sticker on the chipboard tag is also K & Co., ric rack is May Arts, holly leaf is Prima, and rhinestone is from Target. The wonderful stamp is that cutie Jolly Puppy Kisses designed by Crissy Armstrong for Whimsy Stamps. Love love love this stamp! :) Santa's belt buckle is painted with Hi Ho Silver shimmerz and the fur on his hat and coat are covered in frosted stickles.

Everyone have a wonderful, beautiful Christmas in case I don't get to post again before the holiday. Love to you all! :)

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

SOOOOO Thankful Mo's Challenge! :)

I had the coolest Secret Sister in the whole wide world!!! I wish I would have taken a photo of the amazing box I received yesterday, but when I opened it last night, I really dug in deep! :D David and I had spent the day at the Church District Christmas party, so it was late afternoon when we returned home. Lo and behold this box of goodies was waiting for me at the back door. It was filled with gorgeous handmade ornaments, beautiful handcrafted cards, several kinds of Tootsie Rolls (WOW!!!! and yes, I did share! giggles!), a fascinating book on herbs and spices that I am still going through, some gorgeous Primas, beautiful vintage styled tissue paper that I can not wait to try out, and some other neat vintage type embellies. I was in hoggie heaven!!! Thank you so much, Amy!!!!

So of course I needed to come up with a thank you card for her. Along came the challenge of the week over at Mo's Digital Pencil2 - create a thank you card. Perfect!!! So I typed out this sentiment under the fun image and printed. I colored Bella like any young girl would dress herself - BRIGHT! who cares if pink and red aren't supposed to go together? they are FUN!!! and of course the petticoat and socks needed some shimmerz to make them sparkle! so did the confetti - of course again! :D I used papers from the Basic Grey Junebug collection punched out in various flower shapes to match the flowers in the paper. Added some red flowers from Making Memories as well as gold sequins and some red & white polka dot ribbon that matches the papers. The edges of the flowers are bent up to add extra dimension.

I sure hope she enjoys her card as much as I have enjoyed the goodies in my box. and by the way, the Tootsies are all gone........ :D

A Really Fun Game....

Coffee of the Day - Eggnog



My friend and stamp designer, Jules, from Jules Junk Stamps, is having this really fun game on her blog. You play by completing the crossword puzzle using stamps she has designed as the answers for the puzzle! how cool is that?! The prizes are some of her fun digis! You know the neat french coffee press that I love so much? well, that is one of hers! Head over to her blog for your chance to play! Just a little something fun to do amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. and a way to support a really NICE person, too! :) LOVE YA, Jules!!!!! :D

Monday, December 14, 2009

Black and White Kitties with a Present

Coffee of the Day - Eggnog

If it's Monday, then it's time for a new Whimsy Stamps Challenge! and this one is so appropriate for winter - your creation must be black and white.

I looked through the stamps and images that I have and pondered and pondered. I finally decided upon these two adorable kittens by Crissy Armstrong. Who could resist the chance to play with these playful critters? :) My amazing friend Sue on the Whimsy DT had stamped this for me since I don't have this cute stamp yet, but it still seemed to be a perfect candidate for some paper piecing due to the nature of this challenge. hmmmmm...... what to do? well, I pulled out my craft knife and went to work cutting out some very fine lines. HINT - your knife must be sharp to do this, and just because it hasn't been used in a while doesn't mean it is still sharp. ask me how I know........ HINT 2 - always have a back up blade or two around...... :) ink the edges of the cut lines with black marker to give a more professional look. please do not look too closely at my cutting because I did not have HINT 2 around...... grins!

The paper is from Paper Pizazz. I know you have seen this several times recently, but I just love the distessed polka dots! I bought several sheets of it when I found this at a local store. The bow and ribbons look gray in the scan, but are actually painted with Hi Ho Silver Blingz paint and have a gorgeous shimmer irl. The kittens were stippled with black ink to give some extra dimesion. I used my spica glitter pen on the floral lollipop and along the punched border at the bottom to add a bit more shine.

Be sure to play along this week if you can. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holiday, it is nice to take some time for yourself and relax with some crafting. Also, The Whimsy DT has been coming up with some wonderful inspiration for the Advent Event, so continue to check out their blogs. You can win some fun prizes, too!

Have a wonderful day! Remember that you are deeply loved! By ME! :)

Sunday, December 13, 2009

And He Shall Be Called ... Prince of Peace

Coffee of the Day - Holiday Spice

It's a glorious day! I hope you see it that way as well! God has placed on my heart today the whole idea of perspective.

Think of the people in the time of Jesus' birth. They expected a King to be born. and He was, but He came in a way that was least expected - born in a stable surrounded by animals, not in a castle. In the peoples' perspective, Jesus couldn't be the Messiah. His earthly father was a carpenter. But how like God to do the unexpected. Does He do that in your life? We think that God will only act in grand or huge ways, and of course He can, but He also loves the small acts and speaks with whispers. He longs for us to get quiet and seek his small signs. How often do we miss out on something God is trying to show us or tell us because our perspective is all out of whack? Sadly, I do this all the time. I trust my own judgement and not His. But it is never too late to start afresh! :)

I was reminded of this again when I saw the challenge this morning at Stampin' Sisters in Christ. Based on this verse:

Matthew 6:19-21 "Do not store up for yourself treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."


we are to stop hoarding our precious crafting supplies and start actually using them. what an idea! :)

so I decided to pull out some of my wonderful Prima trim, holly leaf, & poinsettia, K & Co. paper and rosette, vintage buttons, and sequins. The card base is sprayed with pearl glimmer mist while the music piece is sprayed with walnut gold. Lots of shine on this big card - it is an entire piece of cs folded in half.

This beautiful verse comes from Doodle Beans. I used my ink squirty tool to help age it.

Have a wonderful start to your week! Love to you!
Jennifer

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Another Digital Ink Challenge Card....

Just finishing up a few challenge cards from over at Digital Ink. This is for the Christmas Carol challenge - create a card that uses a Christmas carol. Rather than use a line or title as a sentiment, I just copied the sheet music onto a piece of parchment paper and then tore, inked, and sprayed with walnut gold glimmer mist. The image is from M & M Designs. I have never been priviliged enough to have one of these delightful coffees myself, but have seen photos of them - cream made into beautiful designs right into the coffee itself. Can't you just imagine what a treat that would be?! oh my - pure joy in a cup..... :)


The holly paper is from Anna Griffin, the crepe paper ornament is from Martha Stewart, buttons are from my vintage stash, as is the beautiful trim. I love the vintage feel this and the previous card have! but then you know me and my love of vintage cards!!!


Speaking of that, I was so sad that today was the last day of the 12 Tags of Christmas over on the blog of Tim Holtz. Please stop by if you haven't. I had never been involved with this before, and goodness gracious, this man is a genius! I am now ready to check out the archives for the past few years' articles. Don't know if I have the nerve to try any yet, but I love to gallery gaze!!! :)

I have decided to use this card for the Saturday Spotlight Challenge, too. I do love my Christmas music this time of year! :)

Timeless Beauty Birthday

Coffee of the Day - Pumpkin Spice

Stitchy of Stitchy Stamps at Digital Ink has been having a Birthday Celebration and challenge over at SNR. So I wanted to get a card made if I could. Unfortunately, being sick this week made it so that I was doing the mad rush to get a card finished up today. Luckily I was able to get it finished just in time! Lots of ingredients in this recipe! :)
  • Make a birthday card or invitation
  • use 3 different papers
  • use 3 dimensions
  • use 3 "B" embellishments
  • use 3 "B's" somewhere on the project - in the sentiment, as the image, etc.
  • have it uploaded to the SNR forum by midnight on Dec. 12

So here is my creation -

My papers are by Making Memories (vintage newspaper ad) and Paper Pizazz (hydrangea). I also have 2 textured solid cs, so technically I went over there. My main image is popped up on foam tape, so that is my 3D, plus the buttons, etc, are all 3D. My 3 "B" embellies are the 2 buttons and the bow tied with the lilac vintage seam tape. The 3 "B's" are the 'b' words in the sentiment and the image is from the Timeless Beauty collection by Stitchy! :D grins! how is that?! The entire card is sprayed with pearl glimmer mist to give a wonderful shine irl. Plus some distressing was done and the edges inked with white craft.

See y'all in the morning! Jennifer

Thursday, December 10, 2009

A Whimsy Holiday Contest Entry

Coffee of the Day - Butterscotch

I am just scootchin' in with my Whimsy Stamps Holiday Card Contest entry, but wanted to quickly get it in while I can. The contest ends tomorrow, so get yours done, too! :) There are some wonderful prizes up for grabs!

I used this adorable Santa and pup designed by Crissy Armstrong again. I know I just showed you a project with it on Monday, but gosh, it is so very very cute! :) Santa's hat, cuffs, and jacket front have been covered in frosted stickles. The belt buckle and mittens are painted with shimmerz. I also added a light coating of the same stickles to the felt snowflakes. Papers are a hodgepodge - Basic Grey Wassail (red hued papers), Dasher (blue snowflakes), and Paper Pizzaz (black and white polka dots). The button is from my vintage stash and I added a few fun blue sequins.

Play along if you get the chance! And don't forget to check out the Advent Event going on for the 24 days of December. Way cool inspiration from the DT!

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Christmas Cheer with Tuesday Morning Sketches!

Coffee of the Day - Cinnamon Hazelnut

Happy Tuesday morning to all of you! Guess what? I awoke to a beautiful SNOWY morning!!! you know how much I have been wanting one, and God so graciously provided!!! thank you, precious Father!!! I absolutely LOVE IT!!!! :)

today is also the morning that the DT at The Rusty Pickle has been invited to play along with the gang over at Tuesday Morning Sketches. How blessed are we?! :) that is one talented group of ladies! We were given a fun sketch to follow and then told to play to our heart's content. So play I did! :D


I used these beautiful papers from K & Co.'s Christmas Cheer pack. I love the colors in here! so different and yet so rich! I printed off probably my fave ever of Michelle's images, this adorable Santa gnome. I think it's because he reminds me of so many Santas that I have in my collection. He just makes me smile so big! :) To keep with the vintage feel of the papers, I added some green sequins and the gorgeous Prima poinsettias with leaf. He has some shimmerz painted on his gloves and stickles on his hat and coat for some shine. His belt buckle is covered in my spica glitter pen. A bit of May Arts burgundy ric rack finishes it off. The edges of the card base were inked with white craft and the matting behind Santa was distressed.

Be sure to check out the other amazing creations of both the Tuesday Morning Sketch Challenge DT and The Rusty Pickle DT.

Tuesday Morning Team:


Rusty Pickle Team:


In other Rusty Pickle news, today is the owner, Michelle's birthday! Drop by and wish her a happy one! There you will also see some neat news about a new weekly contest for free digis, (as well as a free digi for you to grab!) and the Copic giveaway info. Don't forget to take advantage of all the different ways you can qualify for your chance at the HUGE set of Copics!
I'm using this card for several challenges. Love to play in them when I track 'em down! Have a great day! :)

Monday, December 7, 2009

A New Whimsy Stamps Challenge!

Coffee of the Day - Almond Roca

It's Monday, so that means it is time for a new challenge over at Whimsy Stamps! and boy, was this a challenge for me! not because it was a difficult project, but because I don't have all of the nifty machines that many of you do. The challenge this week is to use die cuts. Well, there you see lies the problem. so improvise I did.

I went digging through my stash (no, Dave, not trash, STASH!!! grins!) and found some fun little die cuts that I have from ahem.... a little while back..... from My Mind's Eye. Then came the time for some creativity. I wanted so much to use this adorable Santa and puppy stamp designed by Crissy Armstrong. Don't they just make you smile REAL BIG?!?!? My heart goes pitter pat when I see them, so it seemed appropriate to use the heart and 'priceless' die cuts. The paper is from Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses collection. I painted some shimmerz over Santa's mittens & belt buckle and parts of the stocking to add a bit of shine. Popped on a few buttons ('cause you know I love them so!) and tied on a beautiful bow with May Arts ribbon. We aer ready to send this off to a special person who is 'priceless' to us...... now who could that be? maybe it is YOU!!! :)


Now don't forget that Whimsy Stamps has that fun Holiday Card Contest going on until Dec. 12 where several someones will win gift certificates to the store. Also, the Advent Event is in full swing with giveaways every single day! and boy howdy, you should see the crafty inspiration by the DT!!! I am getting lots of ideas from the blogs I visit! Be sure to do a bit of blurffing when you get the chance!

Have a grand and glorious day! See you tomorrow! Jennifer

Sunday, December 6, 2009

A New Road...

Coffee of the Day - French Vanilla

A young gentleman who works for my husband out at Camp is going to be starting down a new road at the beginning of next year. He is going to be a missionary in Africa! What an exciting adventure for him! He has gone many times on missionary trips, but has decided to take this on permanently. We are so happy for him, and of course needed a card for him as he begins his new venture in life. I thought this wonderful digi from Doodle Beans fit the bill perfectly. It just goes to show how versatile it is! It also happens to fit the new challenge over at Stampin' Sisters in Christ this week - make a card for someone to tell them that you are praying for them.

I kept the card fairly simple since it is going to a guy. As it is, I am probably going to catch a bunch of grief for the grosgrain ribbon and knot at the side of the card, but oh well, I had to have some kind of fiber on the card, for goodness sakes! giggles! The paper is from Basic Grey's Scarlet's Letter collection. Added just a few vintage buttons tied with linen thread, a quick sentiment to know that he is not going on this journey alone, and the card is finished. Oh yes, I did distress the edges of the card base. sorry for my crooked scan.....

Everyone have a beautiful Sunday! may it be as precious as you are to me!
Jennifer

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Shirleys 2 Girls!

Coffee of the Day - Chocolate Kiss (yes, I dropped Hershey Kisses in my coffee, and it was delightful!)

I have 2 cards to show you featuring stamps from Shirleys 2 Girls - one is a cling stamp, the other a digi - both are for challenges. They are also having a DT call right now. So if you are interested, and really, who wouldn't be??? grins!, head over to the challenge blog for more deets.

My first card is for the DT app, using the sketch and the twist paper piecing. I used papers from Jenni Bowlin and pieced the bird, flower, and cat. Because this cutie stamp is a cling stamp, I was able to use some of poor natural white cs that has been sitting by its lonesome for far too long. It is just way too heavy to go through my printer for digis, so these seemed like the perfect op. It does such neat things with the watercolors, so I really do like playing with it! Love the way this kitty cat turned out! The card base edges were inked with white craft. Buttons are vintage from my stash and trim is from JoAnn's. Oh yes, how could I forget, I decided that since this was for a DT app, i would do something I NEVER do on my cards - I got out my needle and actually sewed on this! shock, I know! I stitched the whiskers on the cat. Not many companies I would do that for, but S2G is def worth it! :D I love those gals! they are as sweet as can possibly be!!!

My next card is for this week's TT sketch challenge, and the twist is to use tin or foil on your creation. I just happened to have this gorgeous foil frame from Making Memories, so thought it would be perfect. Tuned it on an angle for the Fruitcake Angel - how is that for a tongue twister...... and get this.... the paper is Basic Grey Fruitcake.... talk about providential...... it made me giggle when I realized it! :D The ticket is actually one I salvaged from the band banquet the other night. The water spots came natually when there was a bit of a spill at the table..... but I think it looks pretty cool that way! whooooda thunk?! :) Some shimmerz was painted on the angel wings and crown. The plate as well as the matted edge were covered in my spica glitter pen.
Everyone have a wonderful evening!

I have to add realy quick how very touched I was by the blog hop this morning. So many people who really reached beyond themselves with kind and generous hearts. Please try to visit some of the blogs if you get the opportunity. Your heart will be filled with joy!
Love ya! Jennifer

Friday, December 4, 2009

A Christmas Wish Blog Hop with Michelle Perkett!

Welcome to the very first blog hop with Michelle Perkett and her beautiful Christmas Wish Angel! I hope that you are having a wonderful time gazing upon the beautiful ways this angel has come to life and hearing about the ways so many kind & generous people want to bless others this holiday season! :) If at any time you get lost on this hop, head over to PCP and the forum, where you can find the blog hop list posted in the discussion lists. If you have arrived here from *Lori's fabby blog*, then you are right on track. If you are just arriving at my blog, then head back over to *Michelle's gorgeous blog* to begin the fun hop.

First I want to tell you a bit about my card and then I will tell you about my wish/prayer, which is one of the conditions of participating in the hop.

I used paper from K & Co. Que Sera Sera collection. There is a LOT of shimmer and shine that doesn't really show in the scan, but might if you click on the photo. Each star was outlined with my spica glitter pen, as were her wings. Then the stars were filled in with frosted stickles. The image border was outlined with the same glitter pen. The entire border of the image was first inked with the blue ink and then coverd in frosted stickles. The card base was inked with white craft and then immediately dipped in fine white glitter. I sponged the same white craft on the blue base. I added this silky soft Anna Griffin blue satin ribbon, Prima glitter stars, and some vintage buttons (of course). Finished off with a smidgen of gold trim at the top. This card also fits the challenge Michelle has going on over at PCP. I didn't put the lid down on the scanner when I scanned it in as I didn't want to squish the bow. so it came out a bit fuzzy.... sorry about that.

Now for my wish. Actually it is a prayer of sorts as I don't really do wishes. it took me a bit of thinking to come up with my prayer. First I thought of our nephew Wesley. but our prayers for him have really been answered already. he has finished his chemo early and doens't have to go through the last round. I thought about my children and husband, but I know that God truly has them held tightly in His loving arms already. If I trust God the way I say I do, then I need to trust that He has everything under control with them....

So this prayer is for a special someone that I am not going to name, because God knows exactly who it is. and this person will know, too.

Right now you have a place in your soul that is a quiet, dark place you go to hide. There is nothing wrong with quiet places, but this is more than that. this is a place you stay to escape and it drags you down. you don't let anyone else in, and it makes us sad. you feel so very alone there, yet you won't come out. you try to put on a happy face for the rest of the world, but I see the sorrow in your eyes. and it hurts my heart. This place is like a closet or a room where you feel comfortable, but it is not good for you. and deep inside you know it. I know, too, because I have one, too. I call it my cave, because it feels like I go there to hibernate. A very wise woman by the name of Beth Moore calls it a pit. She says that you can decorate it and make it as comfortable as you like, but it is still a pit of dirt. I have a little secret for you. No matter how alone you feel there in that place, you aren't. God is there with you. Maybe you don't feel Him yet, but that doesn't change the fact that He is there. Maybe you don't even believe in Him, but that doesn't change His existence or His love for you.
There is a wonderful scene in the movie, 'Across the Universe' where a character named Prudence has locked herself in a bathroom. Her friends are on the outside singing to her to come out. You see, my side of the door doesn't have a doorknob, dear one. I can't come in and be with you. I am waiting on you to open the door, just a smidge. And so that is my prayer - that you will open it just a bit for me, for someone, for God. Realize that you are loved more than you will ever realize. More than you ever really supposed to realize. And in some way, you have made someone's life better just by your smile. You probably won't believe me - Today - but tuck this away for another time so you can come back and read it later. and then maybe you will believe it that day. Because I love you. and so does God. more than you know. :)


now hop along to *Jean's blog* and be blessed! :)

Who Loves you?

Coffee of the Day - Pumpkin Spice

Yesterday was a neat day. You never know what a day will bring when you wake up.

It began with David and I lying in bed talking about me losing my hair. We discovered 2 days ago that my hair is starting to fall out from my illnesses and the medications I am on. So I was talking to David about it yesterday morning as we were waking up. He asked me what kind of tattoo I was going to get when I went bald. Without hesitating I said a great big Starbucks logo. The look on his face was priceless. I giggled.... a LOT! Then we started talking about getting coffee stickers from all over the world to put on my head, kind of like passport stamps. What a funny visual. So that is how my day began.

Then I began to do my usual email check and blurffing. Boy was I surprised when I discovered that Sweet 'n Sassy stamps was not only doing a Digi Day over at SNR, but they asked me to be a Guest Designer for the month of January!! how cool is that?! yep, I shouted my response, but I don't think they heard me, so I emailed back that of course I would love to!!! So I continued along with my blog checks and saw that I was mentioned on the PaperCrafts mag blog for my contribution to the Festival of Trees auction. Wow! another cool-io thing!!! So see, you just never know how your day will turn out.......... but of course when I told the boys about it all their responses were...... " oh , whatever..... what is for dinnner?"


so my card for the Sweet 'n Sassy digi Day challenge~

the challenge was to use hearts to show your love. I don't have a SNS image with hearts on it so I improvised a bit. used some Comsmo Cricket Early Bird paper, a Maya Road felt branch, flower rhinestone, grosgrain ribbon, punched heart, and some buttons to complete this cute owl digi. I typed my sentiment above the digi before printing.

Got to race off for some errands, but everyone have a great day! :)

Thursday, December 3, 2009

For God So Loved The World

Coffee of the Day - Pumpkin Spice

Okay, getting us back on track here after yesterday's whacky post..... giggles! I must say hubby has taken a tally of how many of you agreed with him on the card... it is toooooo funnny!

But on to other things now. I have come across a wonderful designer of stamps and digis by the name of Jennifer Nilsson and her store is Fairy Land Dreams. There is a fun group over on PCP where you can get to know her and play along with some fun challenges. I decided to play along in this week's challenge which is to create something that expresses love. Well, I knew pretty much off the bat what I wanted to express, and she had a free GORGEOUS digi that I knew would be perfect.

The paper is from K & Co. Wild Raspberry. I added some distress stickles to her wings as well as the Prima flower centers. trim is more from JoAnn's. used a neat punch from SU! for the verse snippet. dress hem and heart are painted in shimmerz. wanted to go with kind of a country feel with this one.

I don't know how many of you are into vintage stuff like I am, but you HAVE to go check out Tim Holtz's blog these first few weeks of Dec. for his '12 Tags of Christmas'. they are OUTSTANDING!!!! also Whimsy Stamps has some great giveaways going on for the advent special!

Have a wonderful day! Remember that God DOES love you, very much indeed! :)

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Thankful For.....

Coffee of the Day - Almond Roca

Now I need to warn you about this card......... There are probably going to be several interpretations of it. MINE was simple.... VERY simple. A bit of background - a few days ago, Thanksgiving Day to be exact, we were trying to kill a bit of time before the movie started (our annual tradition). We had just missed one showing and needed to spend about 45 minutes before the next one. Didn't want to sit in the theatre since we weren't going to be noshing on popcorn (now me and Ryan, we can eat popcorn anytime...... Mick doesn't eat any kind except kettle corn.... David won't eat movie theatre popcorn except on the rare occassion... Tyler will sometimes) since we had just finished our big meal and were going to be going home after the movie for apple/cranberry pie. Old Navy happened to be open, so we went in and browsed. I found a great pair of wild boxers for Mick (he is gonna have kittens to find that I posted this on my blog, so PLEASE do not tell him EVER!!!) for his stocking. Tyler and Ryan harrassed me to no end about buying underwear for a stocking stuffer. now mind you they have all gotten wild undies for the past few years and never complained ONCE, but anywho........

Fast forward to yesterday. I am doing my morning blurffing when I discover that I am the blessed winner of a new release stamp set at Whimsie Doodles!!!!! how cool is that? well, you have got to see what one of the stamp sets is........ really, click on this link RIGHT NOW and go look at it. PLEASE!!!!! then you will know why I HAD to have it!!! the other new releases are adorable. stinkin' adorable!!! but this one was mine - all mine. no ifs ands or butts. pun intended all the way. Tyler and Ryan were rollin' when I told them about it. only in my life would providence happen like this.

Then yesterday happened to be the last day of a challenge that Whimsie Doodles was running over at PCP - make a card about being thankful. Well, friends, my twisted mind went a bit crazy. I was quite thankful for my new stamps. And I am thankful for some strange stuff. You know that God has the 'eye roll' down quite well when He hears me start praying....... the things that must go through His mind when He listens to me are probably pretty hysterical when you think about it 'cause I am thankful for quite a lot. And so I made this card. And the panties had to be pink. would mine be any other color? do they shine? you bet your bippy they do! lots of pink shimmerz on these babies! :D

Now my guys happened to come home yesterday afternoon. I was happily surprised! Of course the music was blaring as they pulled into the driveway and the dogs truly danced for about 30 minutes after they arrived. But as the guys unpacked, I quietly finished making my card. Then I showed it to Dave. He was offended. I couldn't figure out why. Then he looked at me. and kept looking at me. Then he said, 'are you trying to tell me something?' I couldn't figure out what in the name of Sam Hill he was talking about. Then I looked back at the card. It dawned on me. My eyes got big. OH!!!!! No, that is NOT what I mean!!!!!! I had to apologize a LOT!!! so if you interpret this card THAT way, no, it is not what I intended. I really am thankful for underwear.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Do You Like PIE??!!?! :D

Coffee of the Day - Creme Brulee

I came across two adorable teddy bear images over at The Rusty PIckle the other day and had to snag them. I had hoped to post both cards made with them, but to be honest, I don't have 2 cards done yet 'cause I am livin' the high life over here with the guys gone! :D giggles! the pups and I are listening to all kinds of music and watching (well really, listening) to programs on television that the guys wouldn't normally watch unless under extreme diress. PBS had some neat programs on the other night - an Andrea Bocelli Christmas special that was absolutely phenom!!! and a Frank Sinatra one that was almost as good. neither would have floated any boats but mine around here, so I cranked up the volume and sang along........... loved it loved it loved it!!!! the dogs occasionally sang along too, YES they sang, not howled....... :) I have also had Godspell playing TWICE, my wonderful Jars of Clay, and lots of others........ it has been GREAT! I'm sure the neighbors are wondering what kind of party is going on over here between me, the dogs, and the cat which is now allowed in the house since Dave is away..... shhhhhhhh.... don't tell....... wink wink wink!

oh yes, they are texting me from the hunting fields. it just cracks me up! I come from a Native American bg, so I can just picture my dad looking down from the great beyond, shaking his head at these mighty 'warriors' with rifles in one hand and their cell phone in the others, texting all of their friends the latest updates. makes me chuckle every time. somehow I think GrandPa might be keeping those deer away on purpose....... tee hee hee!

okay, now on to the card.... you have been patient far longer than you should have been! I have used this adorable navy bear called "As American As Apple Pie", but I added some cherry paper from the Cosmo Cricket paper line called Early Bird. The other papers are from the same line. Pie is more favored around here than cake on any given day. you say the word 'pie', and 4 male heads will immediately pop up from whatever they are doing and eyes will grow twice their normal size. A standard size pie doesn't last more than 10 minutes. we have never had leftovers of any given pie. They will devour an entire one..... I am getting off subject again... sorry. anyhow, now you see why I HAD to get this cute image! I added some fun tan ric rack and buttons tied with linen thread.

Have a wonderful day! love ya! and thanks for putting up with me and my ramblings...
Jennifer


p.s. I forgot to add - you have GOT to go to the Rusty Pickle blog site for a most AMAZING contest for some Copic markers!!!!! hurry hurry hurry!!! Michelle is so generous!

and I am also entering this in the challenge to use a hat for the Saturday Spotlight blog. this is a great challenge site of some fabby peeps you will find you know from all across blog land! :) neato bandito people!

Monday, November 30, 2009

Pink Lambs and Flowers....

Coffee of the Day - Holiday Spice

Good morning! It is a WHIMSY kind of day!!! and I am feeling PINK!!! the challenge this week is to make a monochromatic card, and all of y'all are just sitting there in utter shock that I happened to choose pink, now aren't ya?! giggles! well soft cuddly lambs just need pink clouds of sweetness surrounding them, don't ya think? and this little Whimsy Lamb just makes me smile so BIG!!!!

of course I had to go to my fave line of papers - Basic Grey - when it came time to choose what to go with this cutie patootie. the swirls in the Two Scoops collection seemed just perfect. Wanted to fill you in just a bit on how I colored the lamb - as it can be challenging to make a 'white' image stand out on white cs. First I highlighted the swirls of the fluffy coat by painting with a pale grey ink. Once this had completely dried (remember I am using watercolor brushes and SU! inks here), I went over the entire lamb with a VERY light wash of palest blue. This made the lamb really POP off of the cs. I even painted over the face. The blue ends up barely showing as 'blue', but your eye does notice the difference in the overall image. I then VERY lightly painted a clear glitter glue coating over the entire lamb to give a subtle sparkly shimmer. not too much, but just a teeny tiny amount. The edges were lightly sponged in pink and then edged in sahara sand. I used this fabby 'around the corner' border punch by Martha Stewart called lattice for the solid BG pink paper at the bottom. THAT is one gorgeous punch!!! I think it is my new fave of all of hers. you may end up seeing it a LOT on upcoming projects! A soft cuddly lamb just seemed to call for some soft yarn, so I grabbed this wonderful pearly bit I had left over from some something that I had been given a while back. yep, I save everything and Dave constantly fusses at me about it. but thankfully I have a room where I can store it all........ that happens to overflow into the rest of the house, but that is a whole other blog post or two or ten or twenty or so :D added these wonderful flower buttons that were an Etsy find and a prima flower with a dew drop center, and this card is done! oh yes, it is a gate fold card.

be sure to check out the other DT members' contributions to the challenge! you just know they are going to be out of this world!!! and while you are at it - play along! also, Whimsy has a great Christmas card contest going on until Dec. 12. Also, tomorrow starts the 12 Days of Christmas. There will be lots of fresh ideas, prizes, savings, and more going on at the store, so check it out!

off to craft my day away with the dogs by my side and a bottomless cup of coffee in my hand!!!

love ya! Jennifer

Sunday, November 29, 2009

The Road Not Taken

Coffee of the Day - Cinnamon Hazelnut

Sorry I am sooooooo late getting my Doodle Beans post up today. My guys left a little bit ago on their big deer hunting adventure, and we have been all weekend getting them ready. whew..... what an adventure just getting them ready to go! :) so much stuff to wash, and pack, and prep, and check, and re-check, and run to the store again and again.... goodness me, I am plum worn out! but they will have a wonderful time in the mountains of the Allegheny Forest of western PA. about 2 or 3 dozen men show up at camp every year. then to top it off, our Jeep started leaking gas just within an hour of them getting ready to pull out. so David worked with Tyler and Mick to try to figure out what the problem was. yikes! but they are on their way and should be there within another hour or so. this leaves me and the pups almost a full week of crafting and coffee!!! :)

So here we go with my card.......

I love this peaceful sunset image that Randa has drawn. As soon as I saw it, I knew that I wanted to pair it with this portion of the Robert Frost poem, 'The Road Not Taken'. Thought it would be kinda neat to use my label maker to punch it out rather than print it on the compy (not to mention that Ryan spent all his spare time this weekend on the compy catching up with his friends before taking off to the WILDS where Facebook doesn't exist! grins! no time for mom to squeeze in......) My gorgeous Basic Grey Stella Ruby paper went perfectly with this serene atmosphere. the little flowers are Making Memories. added a skeleton leaf, vintage seam tape, and a wee bitty button.

See y'all in the morning! :)

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Beary Dust Fairy Bear

This card has taken me FOR-EV-ER to get finished. not for any reason other than I seem to keep getting called away while working on it, or am waiting on something on it to dry, or was looking for the right paper to work with it, or always SOMETHING or another. so I was thrilled that I got to finish it up today. :) do you ever have projects like that? I love this adorable little fairy bear from Beary Dust that Sue has drawn. It just makes me smile every time I see it! I can think of so many different cards I want to make with her and so many different color combos.

I decided to use these wonderful glittered papers from Die Cuts with a View. Her wings were covered with blue stickles. I added some Prima flowers, buttons, and vintage seam tape. The card is 5" x 5 1/2". Be sure to check out Sue's blog for some neat stamps and a possible freebie! ;)

Finding Vintage in your Garage.....

Coffee of the Day - Vanilla Biscotti

Good morning to everyone! hope today finds you well - well rested, well fed, and well loved! I find myself needing to create something vintage today, and show you some as well. Gettin' back to the heart of my creative soul, I guess you could say. I just find that at times I really need to refresh and renew with something OLD. weird, isn't it? but then, that is me - weird! but I guess we need to embrace who we are and just go with it. It really helps me to get back on track with the other stamping and crafting that I need to do.

This is a card I made for a call-out at PaperCrafts magazine - use your garage for your inspiration. Obviously the card wasn't accepted, so I can post it here, but I do like the way it turned out. on a side note, I have decided to stop submitting things for publication. nothing is getting accepted - my style is just not what anyone wants. now this is NOT the advice I would give to anyone else, mind you. just what I am doing for me. I have accepted the fact that I will be a 'one hit wonder' - only being published once, but that is more than I ever dreamed of, so I am happy with that. I am just so weary of the rejection. Anyhow, no more depressing stuff, back to the card.

I copied an engine manual I found in the garage and distressed it. I also took 4 little washer type things and used those in the corners. The stamp is one from River City Rubber Works. Once the watercoloring was done, I stamped the Sanded bg stamp over the top to add to the distressed look. Paper is Flair Designs. added the stamped ticket, trim, and vintage buttons to complete the card. finished size is 5 1/2" x 5 1/2".

everyone have a wonderful day! enjoy this beautiful weekend with your friends and family! love ya!
Jennifer

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Rusty Pickle Winners and Happy Thanksgiving!

Coffee of the Day - Pumpkin Spice

First to get to the part you all have been waiting for - the winners of the cute digis from The Rusty Pickle. The winner of the bunny is Linda from Payne Holler Cards and the bear is Sue from Sue's Sentiments. Congrats ladies! I hope you have a great time with you adorable new digis! I will send these right out to you!


Next I want to show you this card I made with this fun digi from Squigglefly. I had planned to show you a different card, but hadn't finished it up yet. Perhaps later on in the next few days. I used papers from K & Co. Wild Raspberry. The trim is from JoAnn's. the flower is Prima centered with stickles. buttons are from my vintage stash. shimmerz are painted on her beautiful bow. I love this adorable digi. her expression is just priceless! the card is sized to fit in a legal envie.

Have a glorious Thanksgiving with you family and friends! I am most thankful for all of you who so faithfully visit my blog and put up with me day in and day out! thank you from the bottom of my heart! love you bunches!!!!
Jennifer

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

More Rusty Pickle Sneak Peekies

Welcome to the FIRST EVER New Release at The Rusty Pickle!!! Michelle is introducing a fun new line of baby themed images that are truly adorable! Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday you will find sneaky peekies of these images on the DT members' blogs. Hop around to the blogs and you are going to see some AMAZING creations!!! Plus you will have the opportunity to win some way cool digis from RP! how can anyone resist that?! :) don't forget that even though this is a new release, there are a TON of great digis already in the store!

Here is my card for today's new release. I used this adorable little bear and more of my gorgeous Prima papers. I cut the paper with a scalloped circle punch and then added little dots of distress stickles. The bear's bow has been sparklefied with December Sky blingz by shimmerz. I added some of my beloved vintage buttons and a velvet prima flower.

Now on to the prize opportunities ~

There are several ways to have a chance to win some fun images ~

1.Be sure to leave a comment here and become a follower of The Rusty Pickle. On Wednesday evening, I will draw 2 winners - One winner will win the bunny I’m showcasing today and the other winner will receive the image I’m showing Wenesday! I will announce winners on my blog, so be sure to check back Thursday.


2. GRAND PRIZE - For a chance to win the ENTIRE set of digital images that are being showcased MONDAY, TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY on the DT's blogs, PLUS three more images of YOUR choosing, make sure you leave comments on ALL the DT blogs on all the days they are showcasing, PLUS comment on and become a follower of The Rusty Pickle blog!
3. RUNNER UP - For a chance to win the ENTIRE set of digital images that are being showcased MONDAY, TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, make sure you leave comments on all the DT blogs AND become a follower on The Rusty Pickle blog AND leave a comment on The Rusty Pickle blog!
4.Get THREE additional entries into drawing #2 and #3 above by mentioning The Rusty Pickle on YOUR blog and linking it up in your comment on The Rusty Pickle blog!

Now be sure to leave comments on both today's and Monday's posts for your chance to win these 2 cute digis. Head over to my fellow DT members' blogs for not only a chance to win there, but also to see their amazing creations!

Have a wonderful day! :)

Monday, November 23, 2009

New Releases at The Rusty Pickle!

Welcome to the FIRST EVER New Release Day at The Rusty Pickle!!! Michelle is introducing a fun new line of baby themed images that are truly adorable! Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday you will find sneaky peekies of these images on the DT members' blogs. Hop around to the blogs and you are going to see some AMAZING creations!!! Plus you will have the opportunity to win some way cool digis from RP! how can anyone resist that?! :) don't forget that even though this is a new release, there are a TON of great digis already in the store!

First my project ~
I used some of the beautiful Prima Nursery Tales paper along with some Jenni Bowlin mini paper for the crinkled heart. The main image as well as the card base and matting piece have been sprayed with walnut gold glimmer mist to give a gorgeous vintage sheen. The ticket is from Making Memories, flower is also Prima, trim is from JoAnn's, and buttons from my vintage stash. what is super cool is that the flourishes are part of the paper and are actually flocked. I love that!!! this bunny just asked me to be made into a vintage baby card. how could I look into those precious eyes and tell him 'no'?! grins!


Now on to the prize opportunities ~

There are several ways to have a chance to win some fun images ~

1.Be sure to leave a comment here and become a follower of The Rusty Pickle. On Wednesday evening, I will draw 2 winners - One winner will win the bunny I’m showcasing today and the other winner will receive the image I’m showing Wenesday! I will announce winners on my blog, so be sure to check back Thursday.
2. GRAND PRIZE - For a chance to win the ENTIRE set of digital images that are being showcased MONDAY, TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY on the DT's blogs, PLUS three more images of YOUR choosing, make sure you leave comments on ALL the DT blogs on all the days they are showcasing, PLUS comment on and become a follower of The Rusty Pickle blog!
3. RUNNER UP - For a chance to win the ENTIRE set of digital images that are being showcased MONDAY, TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, make sure you leave comments on all the DT blogs AND become a follower on The Rusty Pickle blog AND leave a comment on The Rusty Pickle blog!
4.Get THREE additional entries into drawing #2 and #3 above by mentioning The Rusty Pickle on YOUR blog and linking it up in your comment on The Rusty Pickle blog!

man oh man, that is a lotta chances to win some fun images!!! what are you wating on - start commenting! :D

Tasting Snowflakes - yummy! :)

Coffee of the Day - Cinnamon Hazelnut


There are 2 fun challenges going on at Whimsy Stamps right now - one on the challenge blog and one over at SNR. My card is for BOTH!!! giggles! The challenge blog says to make a Christmas item, SNR challenges us to try a new card technique - an easel card. Well after seeing the ones I made this weekend, David has decided that these need to be our Christmas cards this year. they are really easy and fun to do! give one a try and you will see for yourself! :) Jana has a great tut over at SNR, so head on over to see. Then you can upload your own creation. If you make it a Christmas card, you can upload it to the challenge blog this week, too! Double duty!!!! whoopppeee! Please be sure to check out what the fabby members of the DT have created for the Christmas challenge. they are all so very talented and come up with the greatest ideas! :)


My card uses the ever fun Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses paper along with this adorable Whimsy Reindeer. Admit it - you have tasted snowflakes, haven't you?! grins!!! The snow is my wonderful chunky glitter and the snowflakes have been covered with stickles. The ric rack is from May Arts. To finish it off I added some buttons and a felt glitter sticker. I am showing you two photos, one of the card opened, and one of the card as the easel. for the easel one, please excuse the darkness of the pic. It is so hard for me to get a good photo at our house with so many trees surrounding it. I love our trees though! :) and a light box is not in the budget anytime in the future. (now you see why I scan so much! grins!)


Everyone have a great day! I will be back with another post later today, so be sure to stop back by.


edited to add - Just announced - a Christmas card challenge going on over at Whimsy Stamps! MAJOR prizes, so head to the blog (links above) to check it out!!!!

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Blingy Christmas Lattes! Now I really really want one....... :)

This wonderful digi image is a freebie over at DZ Doodles for just a week before it goes into the store, so I used it for the challenge this week ( yep, it ends tonight and I am cutting it close getting my post in...... as allllllllllllllwaaaaaaaaaaaaays..........) The challenge is to use the colors red or burgundy, tan or cream, and green.

I pulled out my wonderful Basic Grey Wassail papers. Then I went to town adding little extras to the cups. They just called to me - 'dress us up'!!! I collect all kinds of coffee cups, and each one is so unique and different. So I drew lines on the cups and added itty bitty baby rhinestones. The poinesttia and leaves have shimmerz added to the highlight lines. The great part about this card is that it is a NEW TECHNIQUE FOR ME!!!!!!! woooooooooo hooooooooooooooo!!! it is an easel card, shown all spread out. I made several of these today - you will see another tomorrow. These are so much fun to make!!!! you have to try it out!!!!!!

Have a wonderful evening and I will see you tomorrow!
Jennifer