He"Artful" Validation of Vicki

New Look and New Calls!

2012-02-11T20:25:00.000-05:00

Scrapbook News and Review Magazine has a new look, and it's awesome! Join now for the inspiration of a lifetime!

Submit your artwork for publication in Scrapbook News and Review. The March Magazine calls are available now.

Scrapbooking	Deadline: February 26, 2012
Free for All (Formerly Known as Strut Your Stuff)	In each issue of Scrapbook News and Review Magazine, we spotlight scrapbook layouts of any size, style and genre with any theme you prefer. Please note that this call is for paper scrapbookers only. The digital sign-up is below in the digital calls area.
Inspiration:
Two-Page Layouts	For this call, we're looking for two-page layouts only. They can be of any theme or topic, but submissions cannot be one pagers.
Easter	From darling divas dressing up to religious ceremonies, Easter is a day to be celebrated with faith and fun.
Growth/Change/Missed Opportunities	We all have them. Those moments that touched us for the better, made us grow and caused changes. Or maybe there was a time that you look back on now as a missed opportunity. Even if you don't have a photograph, scrap the moment and share it with us.
My Wish For You	Do you have something meaningful you would like to say to or share with someone special? Get it out on a layout and let your heart express your true wish for them.
Monthly Series:
All About Me: Things I Love	Things I Love: Over the course of 2012, we'll be featuring a monthly series called All About Me that will help you develop an album that focuses mainly on you and your life and your feelings and anything else you want to share. For March, we're looking for pages that are centered on "The Things I Love" but this does NOT have to be the title. This is the subject only.
Color of the Month: Green	How will you use green on your page? Projects can be of any theme or subject but you must use at least 80% of the "Color of the Month" color(s). So think green with a couple other colors to balance it out.
KISS - Keep It Simple, Sweetheart	We're on the hunt for Clean and Simple or Modern and Graphic pages. Layouts that rely more on the subject or photo rather than a lot of embellishments or dressing up the page.
One Word Title: Fly	Please note that the title must only be one word (the word of the month) and cannot have more than that word, but you can use other words for a sub-title.
Recipe Challenge (Not Food Related)	We're excited to roll out this new call for 2012 and it's sure to be a lot of fun! Please submit layouts that follow this recipe: A pinch of paint A dash of dry embossing 1 Felt Accent 1 Banner 2 Photo Corners 3 Patterned Papers
Scrap Your Stash: Buttons	For this call, please only submit layouts that feature buttons and handmade embellishments made from buttons on them – nothing else will be accepted for publication.
Sketch of the Month	The following sketch is up for interpretation as you see fit. You can create with it as-is, use bits and pieces or turn it on its ear to create a fun layout that is still true to the sketch. All submissions must be layouts. Sketch Created by SNR Staffer Katherine Hansen
Cards and Stamping	Deadline: February 26, 2012
Inspiration
Border Punches	There is such a variety of border designs out there and whether punched directly or switched up to make a different pattern or embellishment, we want to see how you use them on your cards.
Favorite Fairy Tale/Nursery Rhyme	Cute and cuddly or freaky and funky, fairy tales lend a certain magic to any type of card. Nursery rhymes, with all their whimsical charm, are welcome, too.
Rainy Day/Weather	It's not quite the rainy season, but before we're ankle deep in mud puddles, let's have some fun with rainy day and weather elements. They can be traditional paper scrapbooking supplies or stamped images.
Found Objects/Trash to Treasure	Think of it as an exciting treasure hunt! What trash can you rescue from your home to make into treasure? Such items include food packaging, junk mail, old clothes, unloved toys, and so much more!
Product: Crate Paper	Readers have asked that we feature a company each month as it's a great way to show a variety of uses for popular lines or items that we have squirreled away but aren't quite sure what to do with. This month, the company in the spotlight is Crate Paper and you can use any collection or item from this amazing brand that you like.
Sketch of the Month	The following sketch is up for interpretation as you see fit. You can create with it as-is, use bits and pieces or turn it on its ear to create a fun layout that is still true to the sketch. All submissions must be cards. Sketch Created by SNR Staffer Lucy Chesna
Technique of the Month: Paint	Do you love to add paint to your cards? No matter if it's a pinch of paint or a whole heaping of it, we can't wait to see your creations!
Digital Scrapbooking	Deadline: February 26, 2012
Free for All (Formerly Known as Strut Your Stuff)	In each issue of Scrapbook News and Review Magazine, we spotlight scrapbook layouts of any size, style and genre with any theme you prefer. Please note that this call is for digital scrapbookers only. The paper sign-up is below in the paper scrapbooking calls above.
Brushes	Brushes are one of the fabulous tools available to digital scrapbookers. Show us how you rock out digital brushes.
Project 365/Project Life	Whether it's a photo-a-day, documenting each week, or creating one layout a month for the year, Project 365/Project Life is all about capturing everyday life. No matter what your approach, we want to see your digital or hybrid pages.
Quick Page Base	Use a digital quick page as a base for your layout and show us how you make it your own!
Style: Pretty/Shabby Chic	Soft and feminine, with lots of distressing, layers and embellishments characterize the pretty/shabby chic style. Send us your digital layouts featuring this style.
Mixed Media	Deadline: February 26, 2012
Please Note:	All mixed media calls are for artists of all styles and categories including traditional paper, hybrid or digital.
Artist Trading Cards: Alice in Wonderland	There's something so visually appealing about Asian colors schemes such as red, black and gold, or more vivid colors schemes such as red, pink, orange and aqua. For this call, we're looking for ATCs that feature Asian images, embellishments and/or colors schemes that lend themselves well to the Asian theme.
Artist Trading Cards: Free for All	Grab your 15 minutes of fame and send in ATCs featuring any theme, style or color scheme.
Inchies: Clocks/Time	Time seems to be a trendy topic lately and there is a plethora of embellishments, stamps, die cuts and papers out there that sport our theory. So dress up your inchies with clocks and other time related pieces or go for a time theme, such as a Moment in Time, and send them in to us.
Tags: Everyday Things	This call can be interpreted in many but mostly, we're looking for tags that feature everyday things from your life. Things can be inconsequential or exceptionally meaningful but give us a small snapshot into the everyday things that are a part of your world.

CropStop's "Do you hear the bells ringing?" Challenge!

2012-02-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge at CropStop is a celebration challenge. We want to see you wedding and anniversary projects! Cards, layouts, altered items....show us your celebration project. You could be the winnder of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store.

Here is my celebration creation! It can be a wedding or anniversary card.

Supplies: Spellbinder Labels Ten, Tsukineko Momento Rich Cocoa Ink, Martha Stewart Medallion and Garland Punches, Sheer Ribbon.

Link your project before the deadline of February 15th at midnight Eastern Time for your chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. Check the blog sidebar for challenge guidelines.

CropStop Challenge #59 with Spellbinder and Becky Fleck!

2012-02-02T12:37:00.000-05:00

CropStop has the distinction of being one of the on-line web stores selected to premier the new Becky Fleck Pagemap Dies from Spellbinder! This original series of dies co-ordinate perfectly with Becky's monthly release of page and card sketches found at Pagemaps. Use these exclusive dies to recreate many of the design elements you love, including journaling spots, embellishments, and trims. Spend less time planning and more time crafting eye-catching creations!

We have a very exciting challenge this week that will continue through July! Today, and the first week of the next 5 months, we will be posting a challenge plus for you!

Follow the challenge for an opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the Cropstop Store, and/or create your project following the challenge plus use one of the Becky Fleck Pagemaps posted for an opportunity to win her Spellbinder-Becky Fleck Featured Die! All prizes are randomly drawn.

Now, the challenge...NUMBERS! We want to see numbers somewhere on your creative project. And, THE PLUS...use one of Becky Fleck's Pagemaps as inspiration on your project too!

Spellbinder's Becky Fleck - Office Supplies Die Cut

Here are my card and layout featuring the Spellbinder-Becky Fleck Office Supplies Dies!

Becky's Layout Pagemap

Supplies: Spellbinder's Becky Fleck's Office Supplies Die Cut, Memento Tuxedo Black Ink, American Craft, Karen Foster, Little Yellow Bicycle, Teresa Collins Patterned Papers, Making Memories Heart Jewels, Other: Button and ric rac trim.

Becky's Card Pagemap

Supplies: Spellbinder's Becky Fleck Office Supplies Die Cut, Tsukineko Rich Cocoa Ink, Glue Glider Pro Perma Tac Lines, Basic Grey Kissing Booth Papers and Cardstock Stickers, Echo Park Paper, Thickers, and American Craft Ribbon.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store and/or the featured Spellbinder's Becky Fleck Die! Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and link your creative entry now.

Don't forget to check our challenge guidelines to be sure your entry qualifies!

Shopping in the CropStop Store? Use my special discount code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required. Easy, cause' the code never changes!

Some "Caraline" sweetness!

2012-01-29T16:28:00.001-05:00

I finally finished a couple layouts of our precious granddaughter. The Halloween layout has been in progress since before Christmas. Ugh! Sometimes life just gets in the way of what I want to be doing. There just isn't enough time in a day for me no matter what time I get up in the morning.

My first layout is Caraline and her daddy. We all know how precious little girls are to their daddy's. Ours are grown and married, but there is still that special connection that will always remain. I love the look on Caraline's face as the photographer snapped this candid shot. She looks as if she is thinking, "hey, you are interfering with my daddy time"! Just too precious!

Supplies: Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Paper: Basice Grey; Flowers, Felt Cut Out: Prima; Jewel Flourish:Kaisercraft; Tag, Alpha Stickers: Making Memories; Buttons: Jesse James; Ink: Clearsnap;Die Cut: Spellbinder; Photo: Carrie D Photography.

I entered my "Love" layout into the Frosted Designs Fabulous Friday Challenge - Recipe. The recipe required is 3 patterned papers, 2 buttons, and a 1 word title.

My next layout is Caraline at her first Halloween costume party! She was an adorable baby calf at the age of 5 and a half months. Not one of her best photo moments, but I had to scrap it anyway!

Supplies: Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Paper: Pink Paislee; Alphabet Stickers: Making Memories; Felt Cut Out: Prima; Flowers: Petaloo, Prima; Jewels: Doodlebug; Ink: Clearsnap, Tsukineko; Other: Sticker Alphas.

And now, I'm off to finish up 2 more layouts that I started at an all day crop yesterday! I'm on a roll.....

Challenge #55..."Time"!

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

"Time" is this week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog. The Creative Team wants to see your interpretation of time on your project. Clocks, watches, words...whatever you choose.

I created this colorful card with the theme, "Party Time"!

Supplies: Bazzill, Pink Paislee Patterned Paper, Cart Us Trendy Flowers Embossing Folder, Spellbinder Scalloped Circle Small, Spellbinder Standard Circle Small, Inkadinkado Pink Ink, Prima Rose.

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog's "Time" challenge and link your creative project for a chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store.

Shopping? Use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required.

Scrapbook News and Review Magazine Overhaul!

2012-01-26T00:43:00.001-05:00

Scrapbook News and Review is working on a whole new look for you!

Thanks for your patience while the site is down for the big transformation. It will be well worth the wait. Not much longer!!

CropStop's Vintage, Shabby Chic Challenge

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is to create something distressed, vintage, or shabby chic! The new Basic Grey "Kissing Booth" Valentine Paper Collection was perfect for this challenge.

I used two of the papers from the collection...Heart Breaker and Pucker Up! The Pucker Up is embossed with the Cuttlebug Heart Block embossing folder. The double mat is pink and burgundy Bazzill and the edges are inked with Tsukineko's Memento Rich Cocoa Brown. Love that ink! The entire card is misted with Tsukineko's Sparkle Shimmerz Mist.

And who can resist a doily on their project? I love that doilies are front and center in the crafting world now. A doily speaks vintage! I scored these mini doilies last spring after the Easter holiday and have been waiting for an opportunity to use one. They came in a package of pink and yellow. The pop of yellow worked for me!

The heart is BossKut's Victorian Heart die cut. I bought this a few year's back and it is one of my all time favorite dies. I matted the pink heart with burgundy to show off the flourish cut from the heart. The stamp is from Close To My Heart's, "Mad About You" set and the ribbon is from our local American Ribbon Factory!

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and enter your creative project for an opportunity to win a $15 gift certificate to the CropStop Store. Grab my special CropStop discount code, CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required!

Psssst!!

2012-01-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

There's something new and exciting in the works.....stay tuned!

"Quote" Me On That!

2012-01-12T08:04:00.001-05:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is to use a quote on your project. I was making a masculine, college graduation card and chose an appropriate quote by Audrey Hepburn..."Nothing is impossible, the word itself says, "I'm possible"!

Supplies: Core'dinations Cardstock; My Mind's Eye Patterned Papers; Couture Creations World's Fair Workshop Embossing Folder; Sizzix Bigz Old Jalopy Die Cut, Spellbinder Wonky Squares Die Cut, Ranger Black Diamond Stickles and Black Soot Distress Ink.

I used the inside cover of my 6 x 6 pack of Stella Rose Patterned Paper for my old jalopy. It had a woodgrain print that was perfect! I shadowed the woodgrain die cut with turquoise and dark gray cardstock.

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and enter your creative project for an opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. When shopping, use my special CropStop Discount, CTC-VR, at the checkout, for %10 off your total purchase with no minimum required!

2012-01-04T16:12:00.005-05:00

Scrapbook News and Review February Calls

The February call descriptions are up over on Scrapbook News and Review.

All submissions are due by January 24.

See THIS LINK for full call descriptions.

Scrapbooking

Free For All (formerly Strut Your Stuff)

6x12 pages

Forever Family

Life is Good

Pets

All About Me: What I Believe In

Color of the Month: Red

KISS (Keep It Simple, Sweetheart)

One Word Title: Possibilities

Recipe Challenge (1 piece of ribbon/fiber, 2 photos, 3 rub-ons, 4 patterned papers, 5 flowers)

Scrap Your Stash: Ribbon

Sketch of the Month

Cards & Stamping

Friendship/Sweet of You

Frilly & Feminine

One Layer

Product Focus: Bo Bunny

Recipe Challenge (1 sentiment, 2 stamped images, 3 buttons or brads, 4 patterned papers, 5 buttons or brads)

Sketch of the Month

Technique of the Month: Mists & Mica Powders

Digital Scrapbooking

Free For All (Formerly Strut Your Stuff)

Instagram Photos

Splatters & Sprays

Templates

Style: Modern & Graphic

Mixed Media

Please note: All mixed media calls are for artists of all styles and categories including traditional paper, hybrid or digital.

Arch: Girl Power

ATC: Asian Inspired

ATC: Free For All

Inchies: Grid of 9

Visit SNR today!

A New Year's Card!

2012-01-02T22:20:00.000-05:00

My first official creation for 2012! I don't often make New Year's Celebration cards, but this year I made two, and this is my favorite! I love the bright, fun colors and the message it sends.

Supplies: Cardstock, Patterned Paper: Paper Studios Doodle Peace Signs, Tiny Polka White on Black; 3-D Sticker: Paper House Peace Collection; Ribbon: Ribbon Trends Peace Icon; Ink: Clearsnap; Die Cuts: Spellbinder's Standard Circle Small, Stars Circle, and Nested Pennants.

Visit the CropStop Store for a great selection of Spellbinder Dies and other crafting needs. Use my CropStop Special Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required!

Couture Creation's, "World's Fair Embossing Folders!

2012-01-01T22:45:00.000-05:00

Have you seen these fabulous embossing folders? If not, visit the CropStop Store today! You can purchase them as a set or buy them individually! The embossed detail is amazing! Watch Peggy as she shows us the many ways to use them!

Here's a couple of cards that I created using the "World Map" and "Deep Sea Diver" folders.

Be sure to check out these Couture Creation "World's Fair" Embossing Folders today!

When shopping, use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, and get 10 % off your total purchase with no minimum required.

It's a NEW YEAR!!

2012-01-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Wow! It's 2012! This past year was a very busy and blessed one for our family. We are so very thankful for all that we have and our circle of family and friends.

I plan to move forward into 2012 with gusto. My New Year's resolution is in place, but keeping it is always harder than coming up with one.

My crafting took a back seat to many of our activities and travels, but I have chosen 10 of my favorite card creations from 2011. Here they are in no particular order...

As we enter into 2012, I find my craft table already covered with "crafty stuff" that I am working on. Lots of photos from this past year waiting to be scrapped and cards for upcoming birthdays and holidays to be made.

Best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year to all!

Webster's "Picnic" Collection Give Away!!

2011-12-30T18:32:00.000-05:00

Oh, Webster's Pages had done it again!! Look at this fabulous collection, "Picnic"!! Visit the Webster's Pages Blog for a chance to win! I made sure I visited. Love the colors and embellishments.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T14:34:00.001-05:00

Taking a moment before the evening rush to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas at this most blessed time of year. I know that I am counting my blessings with each and every hug and kiss from our grandchildren! Have a safe and happy holiday season, everyone!

Merry Christmas!

CropStop Challenge #51, "We're Going in Circles!"

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week on the CropStop Challenge Blog, we are "Going in Circles!" We challenge you to create a "circular" project...card, LO, or whatever you desire. Link it to the current challenge using the Inlinkz tool at the bottom of the post. Don't forget to check the "rules" to be sure that your entry qualifies. You may be the winner of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

I created my circular card using the Spellbinder Grand Scalloped Circle Die as the base. The second layer is a smaller scalloped circle and the third layer is the Spellbinder Grand Standard Circle. The tag was made using Spellbinder Classic Scalloped Circle Small and the Standard Circle Small. Other supplies: Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Papers: Paper Studio; 3-D Stickers: La Petite; Pearls: Queen & Co; Ribbon.

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and play along with our "Going in Circles" Challenge. You may be our next gift certificate winner.

And, if you're shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required. Easy, cause' the code never changes!

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is all about the color...non-traditional, that is! We want to see your holiday projects done in colors that are not the norm for this holiday season. Christmas is usually represented in colors of red, green, white, gold and other shiny metallics. But we want to see the "unusual" combination of colors!

I created this card using green, lavendar and pink!

Supplies: Spellbinder Standard Circle Small, Spellbinder Ironwork Motif, Perfect Pearl Mist Blue Patina, Perfect Pearl Mist Green Patina, Perfect Pearl Mist Pink Gumball, Parrot Green Sheer Ribbon with Swirls

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and enter your creative project for the chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

Shopping at CropStop? Use my special discount code, CTC-VR, for 10% of your total purchase with no minimum required. Easy, peasy, cause' the code never changes!

"Music in My Heart"

2011-12-08T08:27:00.003-05:00

I love this time of year! Christmas is a special time for our family.

Memories take me back to days of youth with my mom, dad, and siblings. Christmas Eve was church and then my Grandma's house for a snack. It was usually into the wee hours of the morning by the time we finally got home. Off to bed for an early "wake up" call from my sister and brothers. We used to sneak downstairs and sit on the steps to look in awe at the Christmas tree and gifts. The excitement was boundless.

Those days are long gone, but now we share our Christmas traditions with a larger circle of family...husbands, wives, children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and of course, mom. Although my dad passed 16 years ago, he will forever be a part of my Christmas memories. He is the angel on top of our Christmas tree!

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is music. Create a project using music as your inspiration. I love music of all genres, and what better time of year for this topic!

I created this card for my husband. He is truly the "Music in My Heart". The safest place in all the world is in his arms!

Supplies: Flower Soft Gold Diamond Range; Tsukineko Gold Ink; Spellbinder Heart Nestabilities; Spellbinder Nested Pennants; Spellbinder Grand Labels One.

I added the Gold Diamond Flower Soft to a chipboard musical note. Wow, I love this crafty fiber! The embossing on the Spellbinder hearts is beautiful.

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and enter your creative project for our "Music All Around Us" Challenge. You could be the winner of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store.

Shopping in the CropStop Store? Use my special discount code, CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required! Easy, cause' the code never changes!

Check out our CropStop Creative Team Call too! We are looking for additional creative team members. You could be part of our awesome challenge blog!

Scrapbook News and Review's WEBSTER'S EVENT!

2011-12-01T13:00:00.002-05:00

Scrapbook News and Review presents Webster's Pages! Don't miss the inspiration that you will find at this event. Visit the Scrapbook News and Review Forum today.

CropStop "Punch" Challenge #48

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog may make you a little "punchy"! We want you to use your punches on a holiday project. Everyone has a punch or two in their stash, so drag them out and get your creative juices going.

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and enter your creative project. Be sure to check the blog guidelines for entry requirements.

Here is my holiday card using the Fiskar's Holly Border Punch!

Satin Band Gold Ribbon, Tsukineko Galaxy Gold Ink, Dew Drops-Gold, Fiskars Holly Border Punch, Bazzill, Cricut Christmas Cartridge.

Stop by the CropStop Store and see great new products along with Couture Creations Special Edition "World's Fair" embossing folder collection. They are 5 x 7! How awesome is that"

Use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required. Easy, cause' the code never changes!

Scrapbook News and Review January Calls

2011-11-28T10:12:00.002-05:00

January 2012 Call Descriptions

Deadline: December 24, 2011

Free for All Paper Scrapbooking Call

(formerly known as Strut Your Stuff)

Free for All: In each of Scrapbook News and Review Magazine, we spotlight scrapbook pages of any size, style and genre. Please note that this call is for PAPER scrapbookers only. The digital sign-up is below in the digital calls area.

Please submit electronically by December 24, 2011 HERE.

Scrapbooking Calls

Inspiration:

8.5x11 Pages: For this call, we’re looking for pages that are ONLY 8.5x11. They can be of any theme or topic but they cannot be any other size.

Being Us/Our Love/Love Story: It may be cold outside but love is in the air around here! Please submit stories that relate to love, being in a relationship, or a love story that has touched your heart.

Funny Faces: We all make them and it’s always an extra special coup when we capture them in a photo. Now let’s get them onto our layouts. Pages can be about any subject or topic but must feature a funny face or a bunch of great facial expressions!

Goals/Resolutions/What I Want for 2012: It’s that time of year when we reflect on the past, look ahead and plan for the future and what better way to set your dreams in action than to memorialize them on a scrapbook page? Pages can be of any size but must reflect your current or upcoming goals and resolutions or use the title What I Want for 2012.

Monthly Series:

All About Me-Things You May Not Know: Over the course of 2012, we’ll be featuring a monthly series called All About Me that will help you develop an album that focuses mainly on you and your life and your feelings and anything else you would like to share. For January, we’re looking for pages that are centered on “Things You May Not Know About Me” but this does NOT have to be the title. This is the subject only.

Color of the Month-Black and White: How will you use these two colors on your pages? Projects can be of any theme or subject but you MUST use at least 80% of the “Color of the Month” colors, so think black and white with a couple other colors to balance them out.

KISS – Keep It Simple, Sweetheart: We’re on the hunt for Clean and Simple pages or Modern and Graphic pages. Layouts that are rely more on the subject or the photo rather than a lot of embellishments or dressing up the page.

One Word Title-Curiosity: This has been a popular call and we’re continuing it for 2012. Please note that the title must only be one word (the word of the month) and cannot have more than that word, but you can use other words for a sub-title.

Recipe Challenge (Not Food Related): We’re excited to roll out this new call for 2012 and it’s sure to be a lot of fun! For this call, please submit layouts that follow this recipe:

1 Flourish

2 Photos

3 Different Patterned Papers

4 Colors

5 Embellishments

Scrap Your Stash-Chipboard: For this call, please only submit layouts that feature chipboard embellishments on them – nothing else will be accepted for publication.

Sketch of the Month:The following sketch is up for interpretation as you see fit- you can create with it as-is, use bits and pieces or turn it on its ear to create a fun but still true to the card sketch.All submissions must be cards.

Please submit electronically by December 24, 2011 HERE.

Cards & Stamping Calls

Inspiration:

Always & Forever/Hugs & Kisses: We’re looking for cards that feature Always & Forever OR Hugs & Kisses as the sentiment.

Butterflies: Baby, it’s cold outside but we’re thinking of spring for this card call. Butterflies can be embellishments, handmade or stamped, and can be of any style and with any theme.

French/Parisian: Let’s take a trip to Paris! The City of Love evokes feelings of charm and elegance and romance, and for this call we’re looking for frilly and feminine paired with French or Parisian elements.

Favorite Movie: We all have one or two that just makes our heart go pitty-pat or set our creative spirits soaring, and we want to see your take on your favorite movie, whether it’s the actual movie poster, the title or the theme. It’s a free for all. The only requirement is to have fun.

Product-K&Co: Readers have asked that we feature a company each month as it’s a great way to show a variety of uses for popular lines or items that we have squirreled away but aren’t quite sure what to do with them. This month, the company in the spotlight is K&Co and you can use any collection or item from this amazing brand.

Holiday-Girl Power: Each month there are a plethora of odd or bizarre holidays that seldom get the attention they deserve. For January, we’re celebrating Women’s Self-Empowerment Week with a Girl Power theme. Please feel free to interpret as you desire and in any style you choose.

Recipe Challenge (Not Food Related): We’re excited to roll out this new call for 2012 and it’s sure to be a lot of fun! For this call, please submit cards that follow this recipe:

1 piece of ribbon

2 patterned papers

3 buttons

4 circles

Stamped image

***SKETCH COMING SOON***

Technique of the Month: Show off your heat embossing talents with either traditional embossing powder in any weight or thickness or color and/or Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel (UTEE). Please include any tips or tricks you may have to share with our readers.

Please submit electronically by December 24, 2011 HERE.

Digital Scrapbooking Calls

Doodle It: Show use your digital creations using doodled elements - journaling boxes and lines, doodled frames, hand-drawn elements, you name it!

Family Game Night: It's too cold outside, so it's the perfect time for a little friendly family competition. This call is for layouts all about your family game night.

Hybrid: A little bit paper, a little bit digital. Wow us with your hybrid skills! We're looking for any kind of hybrid project - layouts, cards, ATCs, home decor, etc.

Style: Whimsical: Whimsical is defined as playfully quaint or fanciful, especially in an appealing and amusing way. Characterized by artful extractions, fantastical scenes and realistic elements, whimsical layouts are certainly works of art. Show us your whimsical digital or hybrid layouts.

Please submit electronically by December 24, 2011 HERE.

Digital Scrapbooking Free for All Call

Free for All: In each of Scrapbook News and Review Magazine, we spotlight scrapbook pages of any size, style and genre. Please note that this call is for DIGITAL scrapbookers only. The paper sign-up is above in the scrapbookingl calls area.

Please submit electronically by December 24, 2011 HERE.

Mixed Media Calls

Artist Trading Cards-Series of 3: For this call, we’re looking for a series of three ATCs that have the same continuous theme and/or color combo on all three cards.

Artist Trading Cards-Free for All: Grab your 15 minutes of fame and send in ATCs featuring any theme, style or color scheme.

Inchies-Seasons: Choose ONE season and create a set of three inchies based on that seasonal theme.

Tag-Calendars: Theme wise, anything goes for this tag call but your tag must have at least one calendar on it.

Please Note: All mixed media calls are for artists of all styles and categories including traditional paper, hybrid or digital.

Please submit electronically by December 24, 2011 HERE.

Gone too long!

2011-11-21T12:55:00.005-05:00

Wow, I have been away longer than I thought! I have been to a weekend crop, traveling to visit family, and recuperating from Bronchitis for the past month. I haven't had the time or energy to share my recent creations. Finally feeling better, though.

Here is a fun LO of our granddaughter at 5 1/2 months old, discovering a bale of straw. She was soooo curious as most kids that age are.

A few of the details include a chipboard clock, jewel flourish, and acrylic stars. I really used a lot of older stuff from my stash.

I'm working on a lot of other projects too. Some to share, and some that I have to wait and share at another time. Holidays are fast approaching and the hustle and bustle is in the air!

"Unique" Fold Challenge!

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

Today's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is to create a "Unique Fold" project.

When I purchased this tape dispenser last week, I was so inspired by it. I fell in love at first sight! Is this not the coolest tape dispenser you have ever seen? It has joined my collection of items to alter and inspired my challenge card. So, here is the card that I created using my "magic" tape dispenser as inspiration. I found the perfect free template at Cardmaking Paradise!
Supplies SEI Velvet Paper; Cuttlebug, "Love Is In The Air" Embossing Folder; Ranger Distress Powder-Weathered Wood, Ranger Distress Glitter Glue-Pewter Metallic, Tsukineko Versamark Ink, Scor Tape, Close To My Heart Embellishment, K&Co. Chipboard Sentiment.

Here's a close up of how fabulous this SEI Velvet paper accepts embossing!

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and enter your "Unique Fold" creative project for the chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. Check our entry rules in the blog sidebar to be sure that your project qualifies for the prize!!

Shopping in the CropStop Store? Use my CropStop Special Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required! Easy, cause' the code never changes!!

SNR...We're back!

2011-10-24T08:20:00.000-04:00

After some technical difficulties, our Scrapbook News and Review forum is back! Don't miss tonight's events!

Visit Scrapbook News and Review, the world's largest online scrapbooking magazine, where you will find all the crafting inspiration you will need!

Webster's Pages Spectacular Friday Freebie!

2011-10-21T09:50:00.002-04:00

Wow, there is not a Webster's Pages product that I would not love to play with! Their scrapbooking and crafting supplies are fabulous and oh, so yummy! They are giving away some awesome stuff today on their blog...Check it out!!

Webster's Pages Blog

I can only hope to win any of these lucious items!!

"Boo"tiful Halloween Project Challenge!

2011-10-20T11:46:00.005-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is to create a Halloween project. My creative juices were in high gear when I pulled out my stamps and punches!

Square cards have become my most favorite shape to make, be it 5 x 5, 5 1/2 x 5 1/2, or 6 x 6. Maybe because it's like a mini LO? Who knows...but I can't seem to help myself!

I made this Halloween card for our grandson. It will soon accompany his package of goodies ready to go postal in the morning.

Supplies Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Paper: Bo Bunny; Stamps: Stampers Anonymous; Ink: Memento; Punch: Martha Stewart; Dimension: Scotch Foam Mounting Tape; Sticker: EK Succes; Title Letters: Colorbok.

Love this Jolee 3-D Haunted House!

No, you aren't seeing things. And yes, the stamped image is backward! The 3 stamps in the Seasonal Reflection Set - Happy Halloween, Merry Christmas, and Music Note Sheet, are all backward images when stamped. The Martha Stewart, Iron Gate Border and Corner Punches were perfect for this card!

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog today and check out our Halloween Project Challenge! We are waiting for your creative entry. You could be the next winner of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

Shopping at CropStop? Be sure to use my CropStop Special Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required! Easy, cause' the code never changes!

Two hearts plus!

2011-10-17T08:00:00.001-04:00

I wanted the anniversary card that I made for my husband to be special, not like it isn't any other year, but this was our 35th wedding anniversary!

I used one of the ABC Crop Challenges at My Sketch World as inspiration. The challenge, "H is for Heart" was perfect. I had to create a card using two or more hearts, another plus! So, here is what I came up with. I am so happy with the outcome and my husband loved it.

Supplies Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Paper: Prima; Die Cuts: Spellbinder; Ribbon: American Craft; Ink: Clearsnap, Close To My Heart; Pearls: Queen &Co
I cut, embossed, and layered the Spellbinder Nested Hearts using pop dots for dimension. The background heart is a paper lace doily that I added for additional white accent and to "lift" the patterned paper hearts from the darker background.

The white ribbon passes over the bottom two hearts and under the top two hearts. Two little red pearls were the perfect finishing touch! The "My Love" tag was made using the Spellbinder Nested Pennant Dies. Everything is inked with Chestnut Roan Chalk Ink.

The Spellbinder Nested Heart Dies made a beautifully embossed, intricate design on the hearts.

A wide selection of Spellbinder Dies are available in the CropStop Store. When shopping, use my CropStop Special Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required. Easy peasy, cause' the code never changes!

Today is our day!!

2011-10-16T10:00:00.002-04:00

35 years ago today, we were saying our, "I do's"! It seems like only yesterday that I was walking down that aisle with my knees shaking so badly, I wasn't sure if I was going to make it to the altar. But someone was waiting for me, someone that I would spend the rest of my life with!

Where have the years gone?

Life has been good to us and we are so blessed...two beautiful, wonderful daughters, two great son-in-laws, two handsome grandsons, and a gorgeous baby granddaughter to share life with us! Our circle of loving family and the many friends we have made over the years are an ever present part of our lives too.

This scrapbook layout is my most favorite of any that I have created. It is a photo of John and I taking a boat ride on the Susquehanna with our youngest daughter and husband before they were married. It was a beautiful day, and I feel that the look on our faces truly reflects who we are and where we are in life...happy and in love.

The journaling shares some of my most poignant thoughts, but speaks of the strong bond we share as husband and wife. We are true friends and a total support system for one another.

The journaling reads...

The beginning...October 16, 1976. It will soon be 31 years since we embarked on our journey of life together. We have faced pain that has brought us to our knees and shared joy that has lifted us higher than we ever thought possible.

Through it all, we have remained a strong, loving, and steady front together...forever and always, you and me. We are best friends.

So, dear husband, Happy 35th Wedding Anniversary to you, my love! May we share at least another 35 years of marriage and be together for all of eternity.

"Falling Leaves"

2011-10-13T07:36:00.005-04:00

I love the "Fall"! It is my favorite time of year. The colors, the smell of the crisp air, the temperatures, and especially jeans and sweatshirts.

This week's challenge on our CropStop Challenge Blog is, "Falling Leaves". We want to see leaves on your projects! Link your entry to the CropStop Challenge Blog by 10/19 for the chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store! See the rules in our blog sidebar to be sure your entry qualifies!

I used some non-traditional colors for my "Falling Leaves" card. Supplies: Bazzill, Patterned Paper: DCWV; Die Cuts: Spellbinder; Punch: EK Success; Pearls: Kaisercraft; Ink: Ranger; Glitter Glue: Ranger.

I used Spellbinders Petite Oval Die Large and Heartfelt Creations/Spellbinder Decorative Oval Die for the sentiment tag. I added some Ranger Thistle Glitter Glue to embellish the window.

The leaves are punched using EK Success Large Border Punch. Everything is inked with Ranger's Gathered Twig Distress Ink.

Don't miss the chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog today and show us your creative project!

When shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required. The code never expires!

CropStop's Challenge #39, "Dainty Doily"

2011-10-06T08:00:00.003-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is, "Dainty Doily" We want to see doily patterns on your creation.

I wasn't crazy about this card when I started it, but I sure love how it turned out! The burgundy bow looks so rich and elegant against the background colors.

I started with white cardstock and swiped some Ranger Antique Linen Distress Ink across it. Then, I added the CTMH, "Simple Memories" doily stamp with Versamark and dusted with Ranger Antique Linen Distress Powder. Next, I did the same with Ranger Tea Dye Distress Powder. Finally, I used CTMH Cranberry Embossing Powder . I embossed with my heat gun after adding each color. The stamped white cardstock is matted with Bazzill and Craft Paper cardstock.

The sentiment is stamped with Just Rite's "My Rainbow" set and CTMH Cranberry Ink on Bazzill cardstock. I used Spellbinder Classic Scalloped Oval Small and Spellbinder Classic Petite Oval Large Dies for the sentiment tag and matting. The leaves are Prima.

The "Dainty Doily" challenge is waiting for your creative entry! Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and play along. You can find the guidelines under the "rules" tab to be sure your entry will qualify for a prize.

When shopping in the CropStop Store, use my CropStop Special Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required! Easy, cause' the code never changes!

CropStop's "World Card Making Day" Challenge/Plus

2011-09-29T08:00:00.001-04:00

CropStop's "Around the World" Card Making Day Challenge!

In honor of World Card Making day, CropStop is hosting a special challenge. This week, Challenge #39 will include a "plus" to the challenge.

All prize winners will be chosen by random draw. A prize will be given from all that include the "plus" on their project and link it to the CropStop Blog and a prize winner will be chosen from all Challenge #39 entries without the plus. A bonus prize winner will be chosen from all entries linked to the CropStop Challenge Blog. 3 prizes total!

Challenge #39 is "Stamp Your Sentiment". Any quote, title or sentiment on your project entry must be stamped to qualify for a challenge prize.

We want everyone around the world to join in friendship on World Card Making Day! So, the "Plus" to Challenge #39 is...include the word Friend/Friendship in your stamped quote, title, or sentiment. There will be a prize for the winner of Challenge #39 using the "Plus".

A 3rd winner will be chosen from ALL challenge entries linked to the CropStop Challenge Blog.

WORLD CARD MAKING DAY...

World Card Making Day began in 2006 as National Card Making Day. Founded by Paper Crafts magazine to bring card makers together at the beginning of the busiest card-making season of the year, it was first held on October 7, 2006. The initial celebration involved the Paper Crafts magazine audience only; however, due to the positive response it received and the worldwide popularity of card making, the holiday became known as World Card Making Day from then on.

Celebrating its sixth year in 2011, World Card Making Day is celebrated annually on the first Saturday in October. It's a day for the card-making community -- hobbyists, retailers, and manufacturers -- to unite and celebrate the connection and creativity that is the heart of card making.

Here is my "World Card Making Day" challenge card. I added the plus by using the word "friend" in my stamped sentiment!

Supplies-Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye; Die Cuts: Spellbinder Tear Drop, Spellbinder Standard Circle Small; Punch: Martha Stewart Doily Lace, EK Success Fern, Pearls: Queen & Co.; Ribbon: Martha Stewart; Ink: Close To My Heart; Stamps: Close To My Heart.

Make sure that you are part of this "Around the World" Card Making Day by taking part in our CropStop, "Challenge #39-"Friends" Plus!!

While shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to use my CropStop Special Discount Code for 10%off your total purchase with no minimum required! Easy, cause' the code never changes!

Our "American Beauty"!

2011-09-28T09:58:00.002-04:00

Our granddaughter, Caraline, makes the cutest faces! She is forever looking at you out of the corner of her eyes in fear she may miss something. One of her favorite faces, next to puckering up for raspberries, is this little "pouty" face. I just love it.

The photo wasn't taken on the 4th of July, but she was wearing her holiday bib, so I had to scrap the red, white, and blue. Her mother even sent me the headband to add to the layout!

Supplies - Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Paper: Bo Bunny, Pink Paislee, Punch: EK Success; Alphas: Heidi Swapp, Making Memories; Ribbon: American Crafts; Other: Stars

I used Sketch #172, created by Kristine Davidson, of My Creative Scrappers. It was perfect for the papers and photo. I entered the layout into the monthly prize draw too!

Visit My Creative Scrappers Sketch Challenge Blog and see some great inspiration!

Scrapbook News and Reviews!!

2011-09-16T14:34:00.005-04:00

Wahoo! I have been waiting all week to share this news in my blog! Recently, I received an e-mail from the Executive Editor of Scrapbook News and Reviews asking me if I was interested in becoming an SNR Staff Member. After all of 60 seconds, I decided it was an opportunity that I couldn't and shouldn't pass up! So, now I am a staff member of this great online magazine.

Let "Scrapbook News and Review become your go-to resource. No matter what type of paper crafter you are or what kind of paper crafter you'd like to become, we've got something for you. You can start small or go big, it makes no difference. Either way, Scrapbook News and Review Magazine will be with you every step of the way." (Kate Koch-Publisher,Editor-in-Chief)

Visit Scrapbook News and Review and join the forum, submit a project for publication or grab some inspiration!

One Proud Mama!

2011-09-13T17:52:00.002-04:00

We are all proud of our children for one reason or another, but I am especially proud of our two daughters. They are both currently pursuing their Masters Degree and maintining 4.0 GPAs.

That is quite an accomplishment for two young married women with full time jobs outside the home aside from children and families to care for.

Our youngest daughter is working on her Masters in Early Childhood Education. She already holds an Associates Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration. She is a wife and mother of a 4 month old and holds a full time position at a local college Headstart program.

Our oldest daughter is working on her MBA. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a minor in marketing. She is a wife and mother of two active boys and holds a full time position at a local college too.

Both girls demonstrate initiative and integrity in everything they do. We are proud of the wonderful young women they are and the excellent example they are setting for their children.

It is humbling to know that the years of parenting have paid off and they are thankful for us as parents. Today, we received an e-mail from our oldest daughter, who portrays a great sense of humor.

It read...

That's right! It is confirmed that I received an "A" in my most recent class. I am proud to say that I still maintain a PERFECT, 4.0 GPA. Just wanted to remind you that you raised a genius! I have also been notified that due to my continued scholastic excellence I will receive the President's scholarship for the next school year as well!

Now, wouldn't you be proud too??

10 years and I haven't forgotten!

2011-09-11T12:00:00.007-04:00

Yes, I remember exactly where I was when I heard that the first plane had hit the twin towers...Joann Fabrics, my favorite hang out on a week day after the girls were off to school. One of the cashiers was telling everyone that a plane had just hit the WTC! No one at that time knew that it was a terrorist attack. But, within minutes, we all knew!

At the time, we lived 45 minutes north of Washington, D.C. - a primary target also. I called my husband and oldest daughter, but couldn't reach the youngest, who was in class at the local high school. Whatever I was purchasing that day, was no longer of importance to me. My "mother" protective mode was activated. I couldn't get to the high school fast enough to make sure our youngest daughter was okay. Little did I know that she was in the office trying to reach me. I barreled into the school with only one thought in mind, find my daughter and get her out of there and home with me.

We were glued to the television for hours, days, and weeks! Shocked and stunned by what had happened to our country. Today, we remember those who lost their lives, the loved ones they left behind, those that rescued and attempted rescues, and those that lost their lives trying to save others. The men and women that fight for our freedom every day. God Bless you all!

Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?

Were you in the yard with your wife and childrenOr working on some stage in L.A.?

Did you stand there in shock at the sight of that black smokeRisin' against that blue sky?

Did you shout out in anger, in fear for your neighborOr did you just sit down and cry?

Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones

and pray for the ones who don't know?

Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble

and sob for the ones left below?

Did you burst out in pride for the red, white, and blue

and the heroes who died just doin' what they do?

Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer

and look at yourself and what really matters?

I'm just a singer of simple song

I'm not a real political man

I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith, hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is love.

Challenge #36 - Spellbinders!

2011-09-08T16:01:00.003-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is use "Spellbinder Dies" on your creative project! Since I love Spellbinder Dies, that was not an issue for me!

I used some Basic Grey papers from my stash and made this card for my mother's birthday tomorrow! The end result was just what I was looking for. Mom, I hope you like it!

I used 5 different Spellbinder Dies...Large Pinking Circles, Small Pinking Circles, Symbology One, Fancy Tags, and one the Spellbinder made for Heartfelt Creations-Decorative Lace Border.

I did some fussy cutting on one of the larger flowers and put it on pop dots for dimension.

The Symbology One Die Cut was perfect for the foilage on the flower.

I used the Pinking Circle Dies as matting under the flower.

This Heartfelt Creations Decorative Lace Border Die is fabulous!

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and play along with our Spellbinder Challenge! You could be the next winner of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

Be sure to use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total order in the CropStop Store with no minimum purchase required! Easy peasy, cause' the code never changes.

"Good Night, Irene"

2011-09-01T18:34:00.004-04:00

I think we said that at least 6 nights in a row when we turned in for the night! Hurricane Irene wreaked havoc on the east coast. I know it did major damage to those states right in it's path, but we sure have a lot of local damage here in NE Pennsylvania! Roads have caved in, homes were destroyed by flooding and we had a neighbor who lost his life to a fallen tree.

Our power was out from Sunday morning until late Wednesday evening. Thankfully, we were prepared with extra batteries and water. We do not take Mother Nature lightly after living through several ice storms here in the Poconos.

Today was another beautiful weather day here, made even more so because we have our power back. However, there are still so many fellow Americans that are experiencing the aftermath yet from Hurricane Irene. Please know that all of you are in our hearts and prayers during these trying times.

On a brighter note, here is the link to this week's Sketch Challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog. Stop by and link your entry for the opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

"Anything Goes"

2011-08-27T09:39:00.008-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is, "Anything Goes"! You can create and enter any project for a chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

I had fun with my die cuts and embossing folders.

I used my Spellbinder Grand Labels 4, Grand Scalloped Squares, Fleur De Lis, and Pennant Dies for this card. The embossing was done with an embossing folder from Cuttlebug's "Love is in the Air" set. Jolee's provided the resin Cameo. The papers are SEI velvet and the ink is Jenni Bowlin's Brown Sugar.
Here's a close up of the embossing. I love that the SEI Velvet Papers emboss with such a clean, crisp design. They work so well for embossing!

This card was created using Spellbinder's Eyelet Circle and Small Classic Circle Dies. The border punch is Martha Stewart's Deep Edge Trellis. The ink is Memento's Potter's Clay. A couple of Doodlebug buttons and some Prima flowers for embellishing.

The Spellbinder Eyelet Circle Die is a favorite of mine!

Love this Martha Stewart Deep Edge Trellis Punch!

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and take part in our "Anything Goes" challenge! You could be this week's gift certificate winner!

Use my CropStop Special Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase, with no minimum required, when shopping in the CropStop Store! Keep it on file, because the code never changes or expires!

Pearls!

2011-08-18T08:00:00.001-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is Pearls! Use Liquid Pearls or any kind of pearls you have! It just so happens that I have 4 colors of Liquid Pearls in my stash and a bazillion pearl embellishments in every color!

Here is the card that I created for the "Pearls, Pearls, Pearls" Challenge...

Products used: Liquid Pearls - Petal Pink, Platinum, White Opal and Gold, Craft Concept-Secret Garden Embossing Folder, Spellbinder Foliage Shapeabilities, Spellbinder Fleur De Lis Nestabilities, Spellbinder Classic Square Small Nestabilities, Memento Black Tuxedo Ink.

I used my Liquid Pearls to paint my butterfly. I added Gold Liquid Pearls as the butterfly body and to paint the antennae.

This Craft Concept Embossing Folder has been added to my stash of favorites! I so love all of the detail that it shows when used!

Of course, my Spellbinder Dies were put to good use for the leaves and tag! A flower and some extra pearls to finish it off!

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and take part in our "Pearls!" Challenge. You could be the next winner of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store.

And be sure to use my CropStop Special Discount Code, CTCVR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required. Easy cause' the code never changes!

Published in SNR!

2011-08-13T18:29:00.002-04:00

Woohoo! My rosette, "Happy 5th Anniversary" card is being published in the next issue of Scrapbook News and Reviews online magazine!

I made the card for our oldest daughter's wedding anniversary. I will be posting it back here in my blog in a little while! Until then, you will have to wait to see it!

Soon..."Back to School"!

2011-08-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

Our daughter's are grown with children of their own, so we have no one at home that is going "back to school", but we have two grandsons getting ready! Our youngest grandson is starting kindergarten this fall. He is so excited! His school shopping is done...new backpack, lunchbox, pencils, crayons, markers, folders, and everything else on the list has been purchased.

This week's challenge on our CropStop Challenge Blog is to create something with a "Back to School" theme. I found a great wooden pencil box at a local craft store and decided to alter it for our grandsons to keep at their homework table! It is much larger than it appears, so I'm sure it will hold both of their pencils and pens.

House Rules...Homework first!

I made the books with Vintaj Journal Page and Vintaj Blank Rectangle natural brass embellishments by Sizzix.

I used my Sizzix Reading, Writing, & Arithmetic Embossing Folder for the words, Learn and Write. The soft brass embosses beautifully. Then, I distressed the embossed areas using the Vintaj Metal Reliefing Block and added a touch of ink for some color. I added a couple of pennant flags under the books using my Spellbinder Pennant Nestabilities.

The tag is made using the Spellbinder Eighteen Label die. I used the same size die for the tag and the matting. The mat is split and moved slightly to mat the tag.
I used the Cuttlebug Measure to Measure Embossing Set to emboss the lower edge of the tag.
I inked all of the edges with Memento Rich Cocoa Ink. The embossing on the tag is inked with Close To My Heart Cranberry ink. The pocketwatch is a button embellishment.

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and enter our "Back To School" challenge for a chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store.

When you're shopping in the store, use my special CropStop Discount Code for 10%off your total purchase with no minimum required! The code never changes.

Mini "Me" Magnolias!

2011-08-06T17:00:00.002-04:00

Magnolia Stamps now offers "mini" Magnolias! They are 1 3/4" - 2" tall and just the cutest ever! There is a selection of these minis available in the CropStop Store. I saw these in real life at CHA Chicago and fell in love with them! Unlike the larger ones they are unmounted. Not a problem though, you can find the Cling Foam Stamp Mounting in the CropStop Store along with Acrylic and Unmounted Storage Sheets!!

Now in the CropStop Store!!!

Don't forget to use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, when placing your order for 10% 0ff your total purchase with no minimum required!

The code never changes!

Lil' Miss Pouty Face!

2011-08-05T12:10:00.003-04:00

Oh, this photo of our granddaughter is too, too cute!! When I saw it, I knew it would be one that I MUST scrap. It is already printed and waiting on my scrap table. I may have to make two layouts...one for Caraline's scrapbook and one for mine!!

She has brought so much joy to our lives already! It's hard to believe that she is 3 months old. It seems like just yesterday that she arrived and just the day before...her momma!

Looks like I have a scrappy night ahead of me.

Where did July go?

2011-08-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

The entire month of July is gone and it's August already! In another few weeks it will be time to close up the pool. Gheez!

It has been a busy summer for us. We never seem to have a set routine this time of year and we both have been traveling all over since the end of April. San Antonio, Maryland, Maryland, Maryland, Chicago, Roanoke, Maryland...did I say Maryland? LOL! Not hard to tell where our kids and grandkids reside. With a new granddaughter and two grandsons to keep up with, we are always on the go, go , go!

This past week our grandson was here for a visit. Wow, we are still recovering. He kept us very busy. We saw "Captain America", spent a lot of time at the pool, went to a local carnival, and played!! Our driveway will never recover from the bike tire marks that Brenden had so much fun putting there. We even did crafts! Brenden loves to use Mom Mom's tape runner, punches, and other scrapping tools.

Yesterday and today, I spent cleaning up the aftermath of our crafting. All of the punches are put away, the scrap paper is organized, and my tape runner has been cleaned of excess sticky!

I also got my challenge project done for this week! Yippee!

Our challenge on the CropStop Blog for today is a Sketch Challenge! Here is the sketch from our sketch designer, Gloria, and the card I created!

Gloria's fab sketch!

Products used: Websters Pages Hollywood Vogue Collection, Bazzill, Prima Flowers, Spellbinder Small Pinking Circle Die, Spellbinder Sunflower Set Two Die, Memento Rich Cocoa Ink, Ranger Wild Honey Distressed Stain, Dew Drops-Winter Retreat, Martha Stewart Traditional Scallop Border Punch.

I used the Spellbinder Small Pinking Circle and cut one circle, then divided it between the top and bottom of the center image. On top of the yellow circle is a Spellbinder Sunflower divided and used in the same way.

I inked two small white flowers with Ranger Wild Honey Distress Stain and layered them on top of the two larger flowers. A touch of Wild Honey on all of the white petals to tone them down and Dew Drops as the centers.

I used Martha Stewart's Traditional Scallop Border Punch and Bazzill to mimick the canopy in center image.

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and play along with this week's Sketch Challenge! You could be the winner of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store.

While you're shopping in the CropStop Store, use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required! The code never changes.

"Show Us Your Lace" Challenge!

2011-07-28T09:51:00.000-04:00

Our CropStop Challenge this week is, "Show Us Some Lace", any lace on your project!!

My layout is of our youngest daughter at her baby shower. I love this fun photo of her wearing the "ribbon hat". She was a good sport about donning it for photos at the end of the shower. Lots of colors to work with!

Products: Spellbinder Classic Scalloped Ovals Small, Spellbinder Classic Ovals Small, Spellbinder Nested Poinsettias (journaling tag in upper right of photo), Prima Flowers, Recollection Flowers, Kaisercraft Pearls.

Lots of Prima and Recollection flowers to make it more fun! The centers are pearls from Q & Co.

The journaling tag was made using my Spellbinder dies and 3-D Zots for some dimension. The rain drops are from my stash. Not sure where I got those!

I made the umbrella using paper piecing and added lace trim with a pink lace paper doily!

When shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to use my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required!!

We made Tim's CHA video!

2011-07-25T06:34:00.005-04:00

Not only did Tim pose for a photo for my friend, Veronica, that couldn't make it to CHA, 3 of us made his CHA Summer 2011 video! Me, Dalis, and Michelle, spent some time watching Tim's demonstration on his new "Snow Cap" alcohol ink mixative! It's definitely on my list of purchases as soon as it's available!

Tim Holtz Blog

Tim's CHA Summer 2011 video

While we were watching the demo, Tim had Dalis tell everyone the story about her daughter, Bianca, who colored the front of their flat screen television with a Ranger TH paint dauber!

You can find it here...under "One of Life's Moments!"

"Boys of Summer"

2011-07-24T16:08:00.007-04:00

After a week at CHA, I am spending a few days catching up on my blog posting! We have our grandson visiting for the week, so "no promises" there!

I have a "bucket list" that I made long ago. Seeing my "Boys of Summer", the Yankees play is on that list. Last summer, we made it to a Yankee/Oriole game at Camden Yards in Baltimore. We had such a wonderful time, that we are repeating again this summer. Getting last year's game pictures scrapped was a must before I have new ones!

Christa has an awesome July layout challenge at My Sketch World. Her challenge is to "Sing a song of summer" and use one of her listed songs. The "Boys of Summer" was perfect for my layout!

So here are my favorite Yankees. Final score,Yankees - 8, Baltimore - 3!

Products: Bazzill, Craft Paper, Spellbinder Nested Lacey Pennants, Spellbinder Nested Pennants, Thickers Red Locked Letterman Stickers, Paper Studios Baseball Glitter Stickers, Colorbox Chalk Inks.

I used pop dots to give some of the baseball stickers a dimensional 3-D appearance.
The Spellbinder Pennant Nestabilities were perfect for the banner across the top of the layout!
I love these Thicker Red Flocked Letterman alphas! They have the classic baseball look!

Our next game is in August, so it won't be long before I am scrapping my Yankees once again!

CHA was great!

2011-07-22T17:00:00.005-04:00

I can't believe it has come and gone already! CHA was great! I met several of my fellow Creative Team members...Dalis, Michelle, and Gloria, IRL! And, of course, I got to see Haylie Jo again. There was so much to see in so little time!

The lines were long and everyone was anxious to get into the display area to see all of the craft booths and what they had to offer! This view was from the escalator as I descended on the mob below.

Eye level was just as mind boggling! There were pull carts and tote bags from corner to corner!

Below is just some of the amazing art work on display! I have to say that the Heartfelt Creations booth left me speechless. The creativity on the projects using the Heartfelt Stamps and Spellbinder dies was breathtaking. Haylie introduced me to the lovely couple that own these wonderful stamps. They were so sweet. What a great product you have!

This layout was on display at the Fab Scraps booth. They are based in Africa. Their product left me speechless also. I love the vintage papers and embellishments they offer!

These cards were on display at the Hampton Arts booth and the style looks very familiar to me!

Magnolia Stamps had an awesome display of creativity too. They are now offering a line of mini Magnolia stamps that are just too cute. You will see them soon in the CropStop Store!

I had the pleasure of meeting this talented Prima girl, Ingvild Bohme. She is lovely and her artwork is fabulous!

Here are some altered chipboard houses that I fell in love with at the Kaisercraft booth.

And, of course, Bo Bunny. In my world, they are top notch when it comes to beautiful papers!

And, CHA wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Ranger booth where Tim Holtz was gracious enough to let me take this picture of him holding a postcard, "Hi!" to my friend, Veronica, who couldn't make it to Chicago!

It was just awesome! Now, I am anxiously awaiting the release of all of the new product I saw and for 2012 to get here!

CHA is a day away!

2011-07-17T12:44:00.004-04:00

Early, and I mean very early, tomorrow morning, I will be on my way to CHA in Rosemont, IL! I am looking forward to seeing all of the new crafting releases, taking classes, and meeting some of my fellow Creative Team members IRL!! Also, I can't wait to meet Delaina!

I was fortunate enough to be one of the first to respond to an e-mail about a make n' take that Tattered Angels is offering at their booth! Yeah me! I have my ticket printed and ready for the "Walnut Hollow" make n' take on Tuesday afternoon!

Tuesday evening I managed to snag a seat in one of the Copic classes being offered. I was on the wait list for the first one, but when the second one opened up, I registered for one of the last 3 seats in the class! Yeah me again!

And last, but certainly not least, I am taking an Echo Park book binding class. I love EP papers and can't wait to get to this class!

So, I am anxious to get there and take part in all of the excitement of the week! If you are going to CHA and want to visit for a few minutes, please e-mail me!!! See you soon, Chicago!!

Challenge #27 Winner!

2011-07-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

The winner of our Sketch Challenge draw prize is... #7 Sharron/Sharrahug. Congratulations! You won a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. Please e-mail us at the address under the "contact" tab in the blog sidebar so we can get your prize to you!

Our Creative Team has selected #4-Tammy Louise to receive the "Cream of the Crop" badge! Congratulations to you, Tammy. Please grab your badge from the blog sidebar by right clicking on it to copy and paste it in your blog.

Tammy's delightfully, detailed card! You can find more of Tammy's creative work HERE!

Shopping in the CropStop Store? Be sure to use my special discount code, CTC-VR for 105 off your total purchase with no minimum required! The code never changes!

Challenge #28 - "Get Wet"

2011-07-14T08:25:00.007-04:00

I love this week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog - "Get Wet". It's not my week to post a project, but I couldn't resist playing along with this one. Painting on canvas is a secret passion of mine! I made this canvas collage for a very dear friend of mine. Her and her hubby are real Jimmy Buffet, "Parrot Head" fans!! They see him in concert every opportunity they get. So, this one's for you, Veronica and Rick! I hope you like it. The real one is postal to you!

I used Spellbinder's Label Eighteen die for the journaling tag. All of the flowers are Prima. The entire canvas is misted with Tattered Angels Gold Glimmer Mist.

The shells are from the local craft store and adhered with Judikin's Crystal Glaze. The alphas are Thickers and the palm tree is Jolee's.

I also used the Spellbinder Nested Pennant dies for the tree tags. Three of Jimmy's more famous songs are listed.

In this photo, there is a better view of the painted canvas. I used a sponge brush and swiped the paint colors diagonally in different directions to cover the background. The paints are Claudine Hellmuth's - Blank Canvas Paint, Classic Teal Paint and some others from my stash. The embellishments are adhered with Claudine Hellmuth's Multi-medium Matte Gel.

The clock is a Heidi Swapp from my stash. The Parrot and flower are part of the Jolee's Palm Tree embellishment set. The printed sailboat paper matting the photo is Close To My Heart.

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and take part in this week's, fun challenge, "Get Wet"!

CropStop's Creative Team Call ends tomorrow! Want to be part of our CropStop Challenge Blog? There is still time to submit for our team. Check it out and send it in!

If your shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to use my special CropStop Discount Code for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required! Code CTC-VR....never changes!

CHA...Not far away!

2011-07-12T08:47:00.003-04:00

CHA Chicago...here I come!! Next week at this time, I will be bumping elbows with all of the other conference attendees at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois! I can hardly wait to see friends from past shows and meet up with new ones. Lots of exciting new products to see and try. There will be many of craftings "famous faces" there also.

I will be taking a Copics class and an Echo Park Binding Book Class. It will be a busy week!

If you are planning to be there, please let me know! I would love the opportunity to see you again, or meet you in person for the first time!

Challenge #27-SKETCH!!

2011-07-07T08:00:00.003-04:00

It's sketch time this week on the CropStop Challenge Blog featuring an awesome sketch by our CropStop Sketch Designer, Gloria!

I turned the sketch 90 degrees for the Graduation/Congratulations card that I created!!
Products used: Spellbinders Standard Small Circles and Small Pinking Circle Dies, Momento Black Tuxedo Ink, and Echo Park papers.

Be sure to stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and take part in this week's sketch challenge for the chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

If you shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to use my special discount code, CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum requirement! The code never changes!

My June Blog Candy Winner!

2011-07-01T13:19:00.004-04:00

June has come and gone already! Wow, it's July! And the weather for this 4th of July holiday weekend is awesome! We are celebrating our baby's birthday today. She is 27 and the mommy of our beautiful new Granddaughter!

On to the winner of my June Blog Candy...the winner is, Ann! Congratulations Ann. Please contact me so I can get your Blog Candy in the mail to you.

Thanks to everyone that visited, commented, and became a follower of my blog!

Celebrate Your National Colors!!!

2011-06-30T13:41:00.006-04:00

Today on the CropStop Challenge Blog, I got to post my challenge..."Show Us Your National Colors!" We want to see your nation's colors in the creations you enter for this week's challenge!

The birthday of our nation, the United States of America, is Monday, July 4th!

I am a Yankee Doodle Girl, for sure, and proud to be an American! Our national colors are red, white and blue as you can see here on the card that I created.

Product used: Bazzill, Cuttlebug Stars Embossing Folder, Cuttlebug Distressed Stripes Embossing Folder, Cuttlebug Allegro Embossing Folder, Memento Danube Blue Ink, Spellbinder Nested Pennant Dies, Queen & Co. Ribbon, Recollections Flowers, K & Co. Chipboard 4th of July Embellishments and an Heidi Swapp Clear Cut Star from my stash!

Stop over at the CropStop Challenge Blog and take part in this week's challenge to show us your national colors!

If you're shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to use my special discount code, CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required. The code never changes!!

Challenge #25 - "Summer Inspiration"

2011-06-26T08:26:00.005-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is, "Summer Inspiration"! Summer around here means lots of flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables and riding my motorcyle.

We have a couple of ornamental weeping cherry trees in our yard. This year, one of them actually has little cherries on it! When the tree flowers, it is always beautiful, but it was awesome to see those little cherries too!

Here is my "Summer Inspiration" card for this week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog!

Products used: Spellbinders Beaded Oval Die, Spellbinders Classic Oval Small Die, Spellbinders Cherries Impressabilities and Spellbinders Cherry Limited Edition Die.

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog and play along with this week's "Summer Inspiration" Challenge for a chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. Use embossing on your entry and you will have an extra chance to win this month's awesome "embossing" prize which includes a Tim Holtz, personally autographed embossing folder set!!

Stop by the CropStop Store and see all of the awesome new products listed! You can pre-order lots of upcoming new products. CHA is just a few weeks away!

USE MY SPECIAL CROPSTOP DISCOUNT CODE, CTC-VR TO RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR TOTAL PURCHASE, NO MINIMUM REQUIRED! THE CODE NEVER CHANGES!!

"Celebrate Summer" Blog Hop!

2011-06-19T08:00:00.009-04:00

"Celebrate Summer" Blog Hop!

Welcome everyone to CropStop's, "Celebrate Summer" Blog Hop! We are happy that you could join us.

As you hop from blog to blog, you will find that each of our Creative Team members has posted a challenge for you. You will also need to collect a letter from each of the blogs that will help complete the "magic" word and an extra chance to win a prize!

The hop begins today, June 19th and ends at midnight, Eastern time on June 30th. You have 12 days to complete and link your challenge projects.

You will receive a prize ticket for each challenge completed.Prizes will be chosen by random draw. The more you complete, the better your chance to win ! Magic Word prize by random draw also.

There will be a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prize awarded and a Magic Word prize!

Here is what you need to do....

1. Visit each of the Creative Team Member blogs listed and complete their challenge.

2. Link your completed projects using the inlinkz tool found at the bottom of the blogpost in each blog. Your projects must be linked from your blog or site in separate posts. They cannot all be in one blog post.

3. Collect all 9 letters and punctuation mark and send the completed word to cropstopblog@yahoo.com

DEADLINE FOR LINKS AND E-MAILS IS JUNE 30TH AT MIDNIGHT, EASTERN TIME!

Visit our Creative Team Member Blogs in the order listed to get your letters and challenges!
Vicki's Blog - http://validationofvicki.blogspot.com/ YOU ARE HERE!
Kaori's Blog - http://scrapgarden-kao.blogspot.com/
Rosemary's Blog - http://rosemaryscreations.blogspot.com/
Heidi's Blog - http://www.heidishappystamping.blogspot.com/
Gloria's Blog - http://www.gloriascraps.blogspot.com/
Michelle's Blog - http://www.inspirationblooms.blogspot.com/
Agnes' Blog - http://www.radosnyczas.blogspot.com/
Katie's Blog - http://scissorsspatulasandsneakers.blogspot.com/
Veronica's Blog - http://artbyveronica.blogspot.com/
Dalis' Blog - http://www.stampergirl.com/

My magic letter is "C"!

My challenge to you is...Think Pink!
"National Pink Day is June 23rd" Pink is the softer, sweet side of red. It's cotton candy and bubble gum and babies, especially little girls. Create a project with more than 50% of it pink!

Here is my sample!

I altered this matchbox for a swap that I am participating in. I love all of the pink!

Don't forget to grab the letters from our blogs as you hop along!
Send the completed word to cropstpblog@yahoo.com for an opportunity to win the "Magic" Word prize!

Link your project using the inlinkz tool below!

Sweet Caraline!

2011-06-16T18:48:00.003-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is to use embossed embellishments on your project. CropStop is highlighting embossing for the entire month of June with great opportunities to win a Tim Holtz, personally autographed embossing folder!

This is my first LO of our beautiful new granddaughter, Caraline. She is just the sweetest baby ever! The photo on this LO is her when she is only 24 hours old. Isn't she precious?

Products used: Spellbinder Foliage Die/Embossing Shapeabilities, Making Memories Love Collection papers, Stickles-Gold, Pink, Prima and Petaloo Flowers, Recollections Jewels, Fiskar Border Punch, Queen & Co. Jeweled Crown, Misc trims, flowers, and chipboard alphas.

Visit the CropStop Blog to participate in this week's Challenge #24-Embossed Embellishments!

Shopping in the CropStop Store? Be sure to use my special CropStop Discount Code-CTC-VR for 10% of your total order with no minimum required! Easy peasy, cause' the code never changes!

CropStop Creative Team Call

2011-06-14T18:26:00.002-04:00

CROP STOP CREATIVE TEAM 2011

CropStop is looking for 2 committed team members to bring inspiration and creativity to our site through card and layout projects.

The Creative Team call is open to all. We welcome international submissions.The Creative Team term is August 1, 2011-January 31,2012Deadline for submission is July 15, 2011

PLEASE SUBMIT to Cropstop@cropstop.com

Name

Address

Phone Number

E-mail Address

Link to your blog

List of forums and galleries that you frequent

List of current Design/Creative Team positions (Team experience is not required)

Tell us about yourself and why you want to be a part of our team in a paragraph or two.
Send 3 cards or 3 layouts that best reflect your creativity. One of the 3 must be a card or layout created using the Crop Stop Sketch provided for the call. It is located in the Crop Stop Gallery Creative Team Call Album. You will need to register in the gallery.

Please designate in your submission subject line, card or layout.

We reserve the right to share your submissions in our Crop Stop Gallery even if your are not invited to join our Creative Team. Please be sure you are sending projects that you are willing to share with others.

As a Crop Stop Creative Team member you will be responsible for creating 4 cards or 4 layouts every other month. (Subject to change depending on number of members)

Submit all work on time to be used on the Crop Stop Sketch Challenge Blog and participate on the blog as required

Post projects on your personal blog and link products used from the Crop Stop Store

Work with other Creative Team Members to help promote the Crop Stop Store

You may be asked to send in physical projects for use in our exhibition booths.

Creative Team Members will receive a fantastic discount as compensation along with occasional free product to be used on projects.

The Crop Stop Creative Team Blinkie for blogs and signatures

More details will follow upon being invited to join our Creative Team
WEBSITE: http://www.cropstop.com/

"Celebrate Summer"

2011-06-13T07:58:00.002-04:00

"Celebrate Summer" Blog Hop!
Please join us on the CropStop Challenge Blog
Sunday, June 19th, 2011
as we "Celebrate Summer" with the CropStop Creative Team.
Each Creative Team member will be challenging you to create a project
based on their own challenge themes!
Collect a letter from every team member and spell our mystery word!
Participants will have a 12 days to complete and link their projects.
Prizes galore!

Miss Pennsylvania 2011?

2011-06-12T20:54:00.003-04:00

Wishing the best of luck to our beautiful niece, Amber, on her quest to become Miss Pennsylvanina 2011! She is competing this week in Pittsburgh, PA.

Good luck to you, dear Amber! We love you bunches and bunches!

Amber was Miss Pennsylvania Teen 2007. She is competing in the Miss Pennsylvania pageant under the title of Miss Laurelwood 2010.

Double Delight!

2011-06-09T08:00:00.012-04:00

This week's CropStop Challenge is "Double Delight" ... use two or more embossing folders on your project. The CropStop Challenge Blog is highlighting embossing for the month of June. Enter your project for the chance to win a weekly Gift Certificate Prize and/or a Tim Holtz personally autographed embossing folder!

I created this mini purse using a template purchased from Becky Roberts. You can find buy her patterns at the Idaho Inking Blog.
Products used: Cuttlebug Divine Swirl EF, Cuttlebug Floral Fantasy EF, SU EF, Spellbinder Label 18, and Memento Rich Cocoa Ink.

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog today for you opportunity to win great prizes!

And, if you are shopping in the CropStop Store, grab my special CropStop Discount Code, CTC-VR, for 10% off you total purchase with no minimum required! Easy peasy cause' the code never changes!!

I won at "Just Magnolia"!

2011-06-04T23:02:00.004-04:00

Yippee! My Tilda card won the "friends" challenge on the Just Magnolia Blog! I am so excited and have chosen the lavender/purple ribbons from The Ribbon Girl. I can't wait till they get here! Thank you!

June Blog Candy!

2011-06-03T08:39:00.003-04:00

This month on the CropStop Challenge Blog, we are highlighting the technique of embossing! Visit the Cropstop Challenge Blog to see how you can win a gift certificate to the CropStop Store and/or a Tim Holtz personally autographed embossing folder!!

I am offering my own blog candy for the month of June also...Sizzix double embossing folder set-Birds, Flowers, and Branches, Kaisercraft Paper Blooms, Jolee Embellies, a package of stick on crystal centers and a throwback, Lil' Davis Rub On tool!

Here's what you have to do to win this candy!
1. Leave a comment on my blog during the month of June. For every comment you leave, you will have another chance to win.
2. Become a follower of my blog. If you are already a follower, you get two additional chances!
3. Link my blog candy to your blog.

At the end of June, I will randomly choose a winner of my blog candy!

And, while I am posting this morning, I decided to add this little "sneak peek" of the altered matchbox that I am making for my swap buddy, Linny, at Scrapbook.Com!

Linny, you will have to wait and be surprised with the finished matchbox when it arrives!!!

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog today and take part in our Sketch plus embossing challenge. You could be the winner of this weeks $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

And if your shopping in the CropStop Store, be sure to grab my discount code, CTC-VR, for 10% off you total purchase with no minimum required! Easy peasy...the code never changes!

Leave a Good Impression!

2011-06-02T08:00:00.003-04:00

All challenges during the month of June will have an added plus with them! Use embossing on your project and have the opportunity to win a Tim Holtz, personally autographed embossing folder each week that you enter! At the end of June, CropStop will put all of the month's entries into the pot and draw one random winner to receive a colossoal embossing folder prize!

Don't miss out on our June product highlight...embossing!!

Now, on to this week's sketch challenge plus! Gloria has provided us with another fab sketch. Add some embossing to your project...embossing folders, embossed dies, dry embossing. Whatever strikes your fancy. Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog for entry rules and link.

Here is my project using Gloria's fab sketch! Some of the colors look a little off, but they seriously do match! The black braided trim looks navy and the turquoise poinsettia under the rose looks much lighter than it actually is.

I used my Spellbinder Grand Label Four Die in place of the rectangle on the sketch. The different sized labels were embossed separately with a Cuttlebug Embossing Folder from the "Love is in the air" set. I stacked them using pop dots, aligning the top label embossing with that on the matted label. Other products used were Graphic 45 Steampunk Debutante papers, Ranger Tea Dye Distress Ink, Memento Tuxedo Black Ink,

Here is a close up of the two aligned and embossed labels stacked using pop dots.
I added a Stampin' Up Sentiment stamped tag, Queen & Co. Pearls, Making Memory Ornamental Brad, Prima Peach Rose and Turquoise Poinsettia under it as leaves.
Shopping in the CropStop Store? Be sure to use my special discount code, CTC-VR, for 10% off your purchase with no minimum required. Easy, cause' the code never changes!!

May "Blog Candy" Winner!!

2011-06-01T08:08:00.003-04:00

I am happy to announce that Heaney/Paperpapier is the winner of my May blog candy....Copic Colorless Blender, Memento Tuxedo Black Ink, Kaisercraft Paper Blooms, Pearl Dew Drops and ribbon!

Please contact me and I will get you goodies in the mail! Thank you for following my blog!

Before shopping in the CropStop Store, grab my special CropStop Discount Code! Use code CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required and the code never changes!!

Embossing for June!

2011-05-31T16:13:00.001-04:00

It's a new month and CropStop has a new product highlight...Embossing! During the month of June, the CropStop Creative Team will inspire you with their embossing projects. We will be giving away our usual Gift Certificate prizes weekly, but have some of these awesome personally autographed embossing folders to give away each week also!
All challenges during the month of June will have an added plus with them! Use embossing on your project and have the opportunity to win a Tim Holtz, personally autographed embossing folder each week that you enter! At the end of June, CropStop will put all of the month's entries into the pot and draw one random winner to receive a colossoal embossing folder prize!

Don't miss out on our June product highlight...embossing!!

My Complimentary Copics!

2011-05-30T16:47:00.010-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is, "Complimentary Colors". I am still learning with Copic Markers, but decided to take a shot at using the blue and orange markers as my choice of complimentary colors on this card. I am pleased at how it turned out. I love the colors and added some red for the ladybug and the boots.

Copics used were, B93, B97, E01, E00, E000, E21R22, R27, RV32, W3, E55, E79, Y15,Y38.

I also used my new Spellbinder Grand Calibur Machine the Grand Labels Four Die as my card base, Spellbinder Lotus Pendant, Spellbinder Pennants and Sunflower Two Flower and Leaf Die. The stamp is Magnolia Tilda-Ladybug and sentiment is Stampin' Up. I added some Black Diamond Stickles to the ladybug's spots and Tilda's eyes. The pin is K & Co.

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog for your last opportunity to win a set of Copic's 12 new color markers! Participate in the Complimentary Color Challenge to get in the draw!

Shopping in the CropStop Store? Be sure to use my special discount code, CTC-VR, for 10%off you total purchase with no minimum! Easy to use...the code never changes!!

I am entering this card into the following challenges:

Anything Goes - BINGO Challenge (Dies, Pins, Gems)
2 Sisters - Anything Goes Challenge
Dream Valley - Stamp Something Challenge
Just Magnolia - Friends Challenge
Paper Crafting Journey - Anything Goes Challenge
Penny's Paper-Crafty - Here Comes Summer Challenge

Last Copic Challenge is here...

2011-05-26T12:37:00.003-04:00

CropStop's last Copic Challenge is here...CropStop Challenge Blog. Don't miss the opportunity to win Copic's 12 new color markers by participating in the May challenges on the CropStop Challenge Blog!

Use Copic markers on your projects and have a chance to win this colossal prize! No Copics? Not to worry! Use the coloring media of your choice and still get into the monthly draw for the Copic Marker prize!!

At the end of May, CropStop will randomly draw one winner from all challenge entries during the month of May to win this grandiose prize...a collection of the 12 new Copic colors and lots of other goodies!
Be sure to visit the CropStop Challenge Blog every Thursday for a new challenge!

I am offering blog candy during our CropStop Copic Highlight month of May!Here's how you will have the opportunity to win!

1. Become a follower of my blog.
2. Link my blog candy to your blog.
3. Leave a comment on ANYof my May blog posts!

You will receive an added "name in the draw" for each of these!

Copic Colorless Blender, Memento Tuxedo Black Ink, Kaisercraft Paper Blooms, Ribbon!

Before shopping in the CropStop Store, grab my special CropStop Discount Code! Use code CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required and the code never changes!!

CropStop Challenge #21

2011-05-26T12:35:00.001-04:00

This week we challenge you to use your Copics markers (or any other coloring tools) to show us some complimentary colors. Remember to check out our Guidelines by clicking on the "Rules" tab on the left.

Complimentary colors are pairs of colors that are of “opposite” hue in some color model (like the color wheel). Complementary colors create more interest when used together in a project.

This beautiful color wheel is from Quilts and creativity.

Now let's enjoy the amazing samples from the team!

Kate's card uses: Copics, Websters Pages Petite Papers, Spellbinders Nestabilities: Lacey Squares, Organdy Swirl Ribbon: Apricot, Tonic Studios Paper Distresser

Veronica's ATC uses: copic marker clay, copic marker dark brown, copic marker light camel, copic marker cashew, adhesive gun

Agne's card uses: Copics, Cuttlebug Victoria A2, Crackle Accents, Chiped Sapphire- Distress PAD,Vintage Photo - Distress PAD.

Michelle's card uses: Heartfelt Creations Posey Patch Garden Delights Set, Memento Tuxedo Black Ink, Copic Markers, Spellbinders Labels Four Dies, Spellbinders Fleur De Lis Accents Dies

CropStop Challenge Blog!

2011-05-19T21:27:00.005-04:00

This week's CropStop Challenge is.... an ATC using "Time" as the theme. Clocks, etc. ATC's are 2 /12 x 3 1/2 inch trading cards to be "swapped" with your crafting friends! We want to see you "make the time" to create one too!

Remember...CropStop is highlighting Copic markers for the entire month of May. Use Copic markers on your projects during the month and CropStop will randomly select one winner from the month's total entries to receive this Copic Prize Package!

Don't have Copics? Not to worry, use your coloring options...pencils, water markers, chalks, and still be eligible to win a $15 Gift Certificate during the random weekly draw! Always remember to check our Guidelines under the "RULES" tab on the left to ensure you are eligible for the prizes.

Kate's ATC uses: Copics, Websters Pages: Ladies & Gents Journaling Cards, Kaisercraft Paper Blooms, Claudine Hellmuth Paint, Glossy Accents by Ranger, Distress Stain: Vintage Photo

Agnes's ATC uses: Copics, Mouse - Dew Drops Bottle, Graphic 45 - Curtain Call - Double-Sided 8x8 Paper Pad, Vintage Photo- Distress PAD

Michelle's ATC uses: Bo Bunny Timepiece Collection, Cuttlebug Clockworks Embossing Folder, Tim Holtz Walnut Distress Stain, Scor Pal, Scor-Bug Embosser.
Veronica's ATC uses: Websters Pages Ladies and Gents Papers, Tim Holtz ATC Movers and Shapers Die, Tim Holtz Texture Fades Pocket Watch Embossing Folder, Copic B16-Cyanine Blue, Antique Gold Sheer Ruffle Ribbon.

Be sure to visit the CropStop Challenge Blog for an opportunity to win Copic's 12 newe color markers! At the end of May, CropStop will throw all of the entries into the hat and draw a lucky winner!

Check out my blog candy for the month of May too! Become a follower of my blog, link my blog candy to your blog, and leave me a reply any time during the month of May! All reply posts will be entered into the draw for my blog candy!

When shopping in the CropStop Store, use my special CropStop Discount...CTC-VR for 10% off your order with no minimum required. The code never changes!!

May Blog Candy!

2011-05-17T10:49:00.002-04:00

I am offering blog candy during our CropStop Copic Highlight month of May!Here's how you will have the opportunity to win!

1. Become a follower of my blog.
2. Link my blog candy to your blog.
3. Leave a comment on ANYof my May blog posts!

You will receive an added "name in the draw" for each of these!

Copic Colorless Blender, Memento Tuxedo Black Ink, Kaisercraft Paper Blooms, Ribbon!

Before shopping in the CropStop Store, grab my special CropStop Discount Code! Use code CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required and the code never changes!!

Another Vintage Creation!

2011-05-16T18:35:00.005-04:00

I love vintage...lace, flowers, pearls, inks and everything else that goes with the theme. This is a card I created using a Digi Clip Art provided by Lucy at My Sketch World. They are finishing up their National Scrapbooking Day Crop. Lucy posted a challenge to use this Digi Clip Art.Prima Madeline Paper Collection, Prima Flowers and Leaves, Queen & Co. Pearls, Spellbinder's Lacy Squares Die, Colorbox Chestnut Roan Chalk, and Miscellaneous lace and pearl pins.

I have also entered this card in the following challenges:

Craft Creations - Anything Goes Challenge #118

Dream Valley Challenge - Dig out the old/new Challenge #7

Penny's Paper-Crafty Challenge Blog - Challenge #53/Anything Goes

CropStop's "In the Shadows" Challenge!

2011-05-12T08:41:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog continues with our highlight on Copic Markers. During the month of May, use Copic Markers, or your choice of coloring media on your project, to have an opportunity to win this fabulous prize!! At the end of May, CropStop will put all entries into the pot and draw one random winner. CropStop will continue to give the weekly Gift Certificate prizes also. Now, this week's challenge...."In the Shadows". Use your coloring media to create highlights and shadows on your projects! You can visit Michelle's Copic Tutorials for help on doing just this!! Link your project to the CropStop Challenge Blog using the Mr. Linky tool. Please see the "Rules" tab in the blog sidebar for additional information!

I am offering blog candy during our CropStop Copic Highlight month too! Here's how you will have the opportunity to win!

1. Become a follower of my blog.
2. Link my blog candy to a post in your blog.
3. Leave a comment on ANYof my May blog posts!

You will receive an added "name in the draw" for each of these!

Copic Colorless Blender, Memento Tuxedo Black Ink, Kaisercraft Paper Blooms, Ribbon!

Before shopping in the CropStop Store, grab my special CropStop Discount Code! Use code CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase with no minimum required and the code never changes!!

Our Princess is here!

2011-05-11T13:54:00.002-04:00

Yes, our beautiful little "Princess Caraline" has arrived! We are so happy to welcome Caraline Hope into our family circle of love! Caraline arrived on May 6th at 8:31PM, weighing in at 7 lbs. 9oz. She is a beauty! The proud parents, grandparents and siblings are just beaming with joy! We love you Caraline!

Goodwill Blog Hop!

2011-05-07T02:00:00.010-04:00

Welcome to the first Goodwill "the power of work" Blog Hop! You should have arrived to my blog, "Validation of Vicki" from Roberta's, if not please go to the beginning of the blog hop at STAMPERGIRL's BLOG .

1. Dalis
2. Gaby
3. Maria Elena
4. Madison
5. Crystal
6. Melin
7. Helen
8. Christel
9. Roberta
10. Vicki (YOU ARE HERE!)
11. Heidi
12. Michelle

Today finalizes Goodwill's "the power of work" week, a yearly effort done to promote the idea of supporting your local Goodwill stores.

Our challenge to you is to use a Goodwill "find" in your project. Think of all the possibilities, it could be an altered item, buttons, or fabric from a vintage shirt. Through out the blog hop you will find inspiration from the amazing line up we have for you.

The prizes are a $20 Gift Certificate from Cropstop.com and 2 Cutting files or Digital Stamps by Paper Crafting World. In addition to that, some of the ladies have giveaways too! And that's not all... use code CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase from Cropstop.com with no minimum required!

You have two ways to enter your name into the pot for a prize!

1. Leave a comment at every stop of the blog hop (12 stops = 12 comments), GO back to the beginning of the blog hop (STAMPERGIRL's BLOG) and leave your NAME in MR. LINKY.

2. Leave a comment at every stop of the blog hop (12 stops = 12 comments) AND play with us and our Goodwill challenge. GO back to the beginning of the blog hop (STAMPERGIRL's BLOG) and leave your NAME (AND THE word PROJECT) in MR. Linky. If you don't have a Goodwill store near you, then try another store like Goodwill.

DEADLINE FOR LINKING WITH MR. LINKY IS SUNDAY, MAY 15TH!!

Now, on to my Goodwill creation!

I totally love Art Deco and Vintage jewelry! So, naturally I haunt the Goodwill stores looking for treasures. I have quite a collection and it's still growing . A few of the pieces are broken with no hope of repair. I chose the broken earring from a set to use on my creation!

Here is the matching earring to the one that I used on my project. It is still intact!
And, here is what I did with my broken earring! I used it as the buckle on the shoe.
Websters Pages Lullaby Lane and MME shaped tags, Prima Flowers and Leaves, Websters Pages Whimsies Resin Bird, Close To My Heart Stamp, Strawberry Stickles, Chestnut Roan Ink.

Your next stop on the "Goodwill" Blog Hop is #12-Heidi! Be sure to leave a comment at each of the 12 stops in order to qualify for the prize!! Happy Hopping!

CropStop Sketch Challenge

2011-05-05T08:00:00.002-04:00

This week on the CropStop Blog, we are challenging you once again, with one of Gloria's awesome sketches! The month of May will add a plus to each week's challenge too...use Copic Markers on your creation for an opportunity to win Copic's 12 new color markers. See the CropStop Blog for full details!

Here is my card creation using my Copic Markers for the very first time!!! Echo Park Papers, Stampin' Up Stamps, Memento Black Ink, Copic Markers.

Make sure you stop by the CropStop Blog for your chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store or Copic's 12 new color markers!

Be sure to grab my special CropStop Discount Code before shopping in the CropStop Store. Use code CTC-VR for 10% off your CropStop Store purchase, no minimum required and the code never changes!!

Top 3 Winner!

2011-05-02T18:08:00.003-04:00

Wohoo! I won Top 3 again at the DYSU/Do You Stack Up? Challenge Blog during their Easter Blog Hop! Thanks so much for the honor!

You can find my winning project HERE!

Blog Candy Winner!!

2011-04-29T07:33:00.002-04:00

The winner of my Spellbinder Blog Candy from this past week's CropStop Challenge is Cebelica!! Congratulations to you! Please contact me and I will get your prize in the mail! Thanks for becoming a follower of my blog!

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog for this week's "Nightingale" Challenge for an opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store or a Spellbinder Die Prize!!

When shopping in the CropStop Store, use my special discount code, CTC-VR for 10% off of your total purchase. No minimum required and the code never changes!!

"Nightingale" Challenge at CropStop!

2011-04-28T13:36:00.008-04:00

With the upcoming birthday of the famous pioneer of nursing, Florence Nightingale, CropStop's Challenge #17 is a "Nightingale" Challenge! A Nightingale is also a bird, named for singing at night. So here's the challenge...

Create a project that features a bird, bird cage, nest, or all 3! And we want to see texture too!

My "So Tweet" card was created with My Mind's Eye, "Tickled Pink" papers.

Spellbinder's Large Pinking Circles, Small Pinking Circles, and Beaded Oval Dies. The sentiment is stamped with Tsukineko Memento, Bahama Blue Ink.

Tim Holtz, Sizzix Bigz - Bird Cage Die. The birdcage was cut from cork cardstock for texture!

Fly on over to the CropStop Challenge Blog and take part in our "Nightingale" Challenge for an opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. And, use a Spellbinder Die on your project too for an opportunity to win a Spellbinder Die from the CropStop Store!

Be sure to grab my CropStop Special Discount Code before placing your order in the CropStop Store! Use code CTC-VR for 10%off your total purchase! No minimum required. Easy to remember because the code never changes.

Caraline with a "C"!

2011-04-22T20:45:00.003-04:00

Caraline Hope...our future granddaughter's chosen name! I am so in love with it. A beautiful name that her parents finally agreed on! We can hardly wait for her arrival in a few weeks.

I altered this letter "C" for Caraline's bedroom wall. The papers are the same that I used for our daughter's baby shower card and Caraline's "Wish" box. You can see them HERE. This will be part of Caraline's Easter goodies, although she hasn't arrived to collect them yet!
The patterned papers are My Mind's Eye, Princess Line.
The large butterfly is from the Tim Holtz Harlequin Grungeboard Elements Collection. I used Smooch Pearlized Silver Fox and Smooch Pearlized Illuminate to color the butterfly. I lightly distressed it with Ranger Tea Dye Distress ink. The small butterfly is from Prima. I inked this with some Ranger Worn Lipstick and Antique Linen Distress Inks. These are two of my favorite colors!! I added some Cinnamon Stickles and Pearls.
Caraline's middle name, "Hope" deserved special attention, so I printed it on cardstock and framed it with a Tim Holtz Ornate Frame. The jewel flourish is Prima.The crown is another element in the Tim Holtz Harlequin Grungeboard Collection. Inked in the same way as the large butterfly. The small butterfly is another of the Prima butterflies.

Caraline...you are so loved already!!!

I have entered my altered project in the Do You Stack Up "Easter" Blog Hop. I had a fun time hopping from blog to blog and collecting letters for the clue as to what needed to be part of the project I created. The letters spelled, "FLOWER"!

Spellbinder Blog Candy!

2011-04-21T15:12:00.001-04:00

The winner of my Spellbinder Blog Candy from this past week's CropStop Challenge is Pinklilac!! Congratulations to you! Please contact me and I will get your prize in the mail! Thanks for becoming a follower of my blog!

Top 3!

2011-04-21T09:09:00.002-04:00

Once again, my sister's birthday card is a winner! I hope it's a winner with her as well. I can't wait until she gets it this week.

I entered her card in the "Layer It Up" challenge at My Partner in Crafting Crime and was chosen as one of the "Top 3". Thanks so much for this honor. I will proudly display the "Top 3" blinkie in my blog sidebar.

Here is the card...

Susan's Birthday Card!

Wish Me a Rainbow!

2011-04-21T08:00:00.006-04:00

Wish me a rainbow and wish me the stars, All this you can give me wherever you are ...

Words to a song I remember singing for a high school chorus concert. Amazing that I still remember that song after all of these years! Rainbows are always a happy event.

This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is my choice...Show me a RAINBOW!! Yes, I want to see ROY G BIV on your project! You can use the colors anywhere on your project, but make sure you use all 7 colors! Plus, use a Spellbinder die and have a chance to win a Spellbinder Prize! Here is my creation...

Products used are, Spellbinder's Wonky Squares, Spellbinder's Fancy Tags, Cuttlebug Stars Embossing Folder and Doodlebug Sugar Coated Brad. All available in the CropStop Store.

Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog for an opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate or a Spellbinder Prize!

Also visit the CropStop Facebook page to see the featured Spellbinder "Die of the Day" being discounted in the CropStop Store.

And, when you're shopping, be sure to use my special CropStop discount code, CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase of $30 or more! The code never changes!

This week's blog candy! Become a follower of my blog and leave me a reply with the word "Spellbinder" in it for a chance to win this blog candy. At the end of the CropStop Challenge, I will randomly choose a winner of my blog candy!

Spellbinder's Decorative Photo Corners/Hearts, E Embellishment White Flowers, Queen and Company Orchid Pearls, G Clear Stamp-Rock Star, and Orchid and White Sheer Ribbon!

I made the Top 3!

2011-04-20T20:34:00.010-04:00

I made the Top 3 on the DYSU/Do You Stack Up? Challenge Blog! Thanks so much for the honor! I am proudly displaying it in the sidebar!

I entered the birthday card that I made for my sister in the "scallop" challenge and was chosen as one of the Top 3 out of 145 entries! Can you tell I'm excited? Looking forward to next week's challenge!!

Two days remaining!

2011-04-18T20:57:00.006-04:00

Just two days remaining in this week's CropStop Vintage Challenge Plus! Create a vintage project for the opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. And, if you use a Spellbinder Die on your project, you have a chance to win a Spellbinder Prize!

I am also offering blog candy for this Vintage Plus Challenge! Become a follower of my blog and leave a comment with "Spellbinder" in the reply and you could win my blog candy! Be sure to post by midnight Wednesday, April 20th!

Vintage Plus Spellbinder Challenge/Blog Candy!!

A Special Birthday Card!

2011-04-17T12:23:00.028-04:00

April is a busy month for our family as far as birthday and anniversary celebrations. We just added another anniversary when my youngest brother got married the beginning of April. And, to add to those celebrations, we have Easter coming up!

However, there is one birthday that is very special to me, my sister's birthday. I have 4 siblings of which 3 are brothers, and only one sister. We have never lived closer than 4 hours from each other since I married and moved away.

Now that we are older and our daughters are married and gone, we try to spend more time together. Twice a year we get together for a weekend scrapping crop. Those are the best of times! The time goes quickly and it all comes to an end too soon for both of us. I give extra special attention to making her birthday card because I want it to be just perfect! I used the new Prima Madeline Collection for her card. The vintage papers and colors are just beautiful! Other supplies include a Prima Roseprint Birdsong/Bird, Prima French White Roses, Prima Pearl Stickpin, Prima Pink Jewel Flourish, Martha Stewart Border Punch, Stickles-Aqua, Lime Green, Worn Lipstick Distress, Cinnamon and Diamond, Ranger Distress Ink-Worn Lipstick, Colorbox-Chestnut Roan Chalk Ink, Tattered Angels Passion Red Glimmer Mist, Spellbinder's Nested Hearts and Fancy Tag and Foliage Dies, Memento Rich Cocoa Ink, and a Stampin' Up Sentiment.
The Prima French White Mulberry Rose was sprayed with Passion Red Glimmer Mist.
I inked the lace trim with Ranger Worn Lipstick Distress Ink.
The edges of the Spellbinder Heart, Foliage, and Fancy Tag have Cinnamon Stickles added to them.
I also added Aqua and Worn Lipstick Stickles to the Prima Roseprint Bird.
The top edge of the card along with the scallop punched border have Cinnamon Stickles.
The card from several different angles. I am pleased with the results of my labor of love!

All linked products are available in the CropStop Store. Other similar manufacturer products are available also that are not linked.

I decided to enter this card is some of the challenges that I have come across this week. Usually, I don't have time to visit many blogs, but the weather this weekend gave me plenty of time to surf scrappy blog!

Here are the challenges that I am entering....

Pile It On-Use a Rubber Stamp

Anything Goes - Pearls

My Partner in Crafting Crime - Layer it Up! 3 or more layers

Drunkin' Stampers - No Electronic Tools

A Gem of a Challenge - #19 Ues Pearls and/or Swirls

Tuesday Throwdown - Sparkle/Bling

DYSU - Scallops

2 Sisters Challenge - BINGO/3 in a row

Paper Sundaes - Use Texture

Next time, I hope to enter even more challenges. This is so fun hopping from blog to blog!

Thanks for stopping by my blog!

Spellbinder, Vintage and a WINNER!

2011-04-14T09:00:00.014-04:00

Do you love vintage? I do! Everything vintage...lace, jewelry, photos, furniture, and more. I spend time strolling through thrift and antique shops looking for a piece of eye catching vintage! There is plenty to be had here in the Poconos where antique shops abound. I have a collection of vintage jewelry that includes women's watches and an old stopwatch.

When I saw this Bo Bunny Timepiece Collection, I knew I had to have it! The papers themselves screamed, "Vintage"! This week's challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog is to create a vintage project. Well, imagine that? I had all of the ingredients needed and it was time to make a birthday card for my dear husband of 35 years! I guess we are kind of vintage too!

And, if you use a Spellbinder die on your project, you have a chance to win a Spellbinder die! I just happen to have the Spellbinder Heart and Watch Die Set, which is very vintage! I used the Bo Bunny Timepiece Paper Collection along with Spellbinder's Label 3 Die and Spellbinder's Heart and Watch Die, Tim Holtz Time Pieces and Ranger Tea Dye Distress Ink. Here you can see a close up of the Spellbinder Heart and Watch pieces. The Heart and Watch Die Set also includes the embossed key above the sentiment tag. The clock hands are from the Tim Holtz Time Piece Collection and all of the paper edges are inked with Ranger Distress Ink...Tea Dye.

Stop over at the CropStop Challenge Blog for a chance to win a $15 Gift Certificate or a Spellbinder Die Cut Prize! Be sure to read the entry rules so you don't miss the chance to play along.

And, if you are shopping in the CropStop Store, use my special CropStop Discount code for 10% off your total purchase of $30 or more! Use code CTC-VR today! It never changes.

Last, but not least, I am delighted to say that the winner by random draw, of my blog candy, is Nicole! Please contact me to claim your prize!

This week, I will once again be offering my own Spellbinder Blog Candy with the weekly CropStop Challenge. Become a follower of my blog and leave me a comment with the word Spellbinder and you could have the chance to own my blog candy! I will randomly draw a winner on Thursday, April 21st and post it in my blog!

Spellbinder Clear Stamps, Kaisercraft Mulberry Blooms and a package of 10 clear envelopes!

CropStop's Sketch Challenge Plus!

2011-04-07T08:00:00.002-04:00

Today marks the beginning of our CropStop Spellbinder Highlight month! We are highlighting Spellbinder dies the entire month of April. This week's sketch challenge has a "Spellbinder" plus. Use the sketch and a Spellbinder die for the opportunity to win a Spellbinder die!

Don't have any Spellbinder dies? Not to worry, you will still have the opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store. Visit the CropStop Challenge Blog to participate in the challenge and read the challenge rules. I created my card using Websters Pages Spring Market, Yacht Club, and Country Estates papers, Creative Expressions Crackle Embossing Folder, Jenni Bowlin Banner Stickers and for the "plus", Spellbinder's Classic Square Small and Spellbinder's Classic Scalloped Square Small.

I added some fibers tied in a square knot and an anchor button for a nautical look.

A little sanding on the Crackle embossing folder gave it a more weathered appearance.

I will be offering my own blog candy during this week's sketch challenge on the CropStop Challenge Blog. Become a follower of my blog and leave me a comment with the word "Spellbinder" in it and you can win this awesome prize!

These Spellbinder Shapeabilities Butterflies Two Dies , Studio G Clear Stamps, Package of 10, 6 x 6 inch clear envelopes and 2 yards of sheer ribbon could be yours when you become a follower of my blog!

April Blog Candy!

2011-04-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

Win this blog candy by becoming a follower of my blog and leaving a comment during our CropStop "Spellbinder" highlight month of April when the CropStop Challenge Blog highlights Spellbinder dies all month long! On April 14th, after the end of April 7th's challenge, I will randomly draw one name from the comments listed on my April 7th challenge project as the winner of this blog candy! Be sure to take part in the CropStop Challenge Blog's Spellbinder Highlight challenges during the month of April. You could be the winner of a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store or a Spellbinder prize!!

April is Spellbinder month at CropStop!

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

April is "Spellbinder Highlight" month at CropStop! The CropStop Challenge Blog will be challenging you, beginning Thursday, April 7th, to use those fabulous Spellbinder dies on your creations! The CropStop Challenge Sketch will have an added "plus"! You will have two options with the challenge....create a project with the sketch and be eligible for the CropStop Gift Certificate Prize, or create a project with the sketch, "plus" use a Spellbinder die for the opportunity to win a Spellbinder Die Prize! Stop by our Creative Team member blogs and see who is offering added incentive blog candy! You can find their blog links under the "Creative Team" tab in the blog left sidebar!

Liebster Blog Award

2011-04-01T10:17:00.004-04:00

I just received this award from Marilyn/Newbiecrafter! Thank you so much, Marilyn! I am honored to receive this award from you.

About the Liebster Blog Award: This award was created for bloggers who have fewer than 300 followers, but put a lot of love and heart into their work. It is given to bring light to new blogs and its a great way to share blogs that might not otherwise be seen or ones you want to share with others. As a recipient you must share the love and pay it forward by.

1- Create a post where you blog about the Liebster award and reveal your 3 to 5 blog picks.
2- Let them know you have chosen them by leaving a comment on their blog about the award.
3- Copy and paste the award on your blog.
4- Have the faith that your followers will rally and show their crafty love back out to those you award this to.
5- Have fun!!!

I have chosen these 5 people who have inspired me with their work :
1. Jan
2. Gloria
3. Linda
4. Scarlett
5. Suzanne

Please grab the award and share with your inspirational blogs!

Blog Candy/April 7th Spellbinder Challenge!

2011-04-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

CropStop Challenge #13 - Shiny!!

2011-03-31T08:00:00.001-04:00

The challenge this week on the CropStop Blog is to use something shiny on your creation. This was perfect for me because I needed a wedding card for my brother and future sister-in-law! I used patterned paper from an older American Crafts Collection, "I Do". The cardstock is plum metallic, cut and embossed with Spellbinder's Nested Heart Dies. The white flourishes are Me and My Big Ideas, Elegant Flourish, puffy stickers. I love those things! The roses are Prima and the rhinestone bells are Making Memories.

A close up of the Prima mulberry roses and white puffy flourish from Me and My Big Ideas.

Here you can see the elegant embossing made with the Spellbinder's Nested Heart Dies. There are 3 in the set and are available in the CropStop Store.

Stop by the CropStop Challenge Blog and take part in our current challenge. You will have the opportunity to win a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store!

Don't forget to use my special CropStop Coupon code when shopping in the CropStop Store! The code never changes....use code CTC-VR for 10% off of your total purchase of $30 or more!

CropStop Challenge #12-"It's All About the Lace"

2011-03-24T15:24:00.004-04:00

"It's All About Lace" on the CropStop Challenge Blog this week! The new weekly challenge wants us to use lace on our project. Any kind of lace...real lace, paper lace, designs with punches and papers. Here is the card that I created using lace as part of my flower embellishment. I followed a card sketch of Lucy's from My Sketch World. I used the Graphic 45 Curtain Call Paper Collection along with Bazzil Cardstock for matting. This is my very first "zipper flower" I love how it turned out and it was super easy to make. I used Becky Olsen's tutorial located in the Ellen Hutson Classroom Blog. I used my Spellbinder Standard Circle Small and Classic Scalloped Circle Small for the tag. The dies are available in the CropStop Store along with many other Spellbinder Products! Thanks for stopping by my blog! Don't forget to grab my "CropStop special coupon" code before you shop in the CropStop Store. Use code CTC-VR for 10% off your total purchase of $30 or more! The code never changes.

CROPSTOP'S APRIL PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT!

2011-03-21T08:28:00.005-04:00

Don't miss out on the CropStop Challenge Blog's April Product Highlight...Spellbinder Arts!

The CropStop Challenge Blog will be giving away Spellbinder Dies all month long for weekly challenge prizes in addition to the weekly Gift Certificate prizes! If you use a Spellbinder Die on your project, you will be entered into the draw for a Spellbinder prize. Don't have any? Not to worry. CropStop will still be doing a weekly random draw for a $15 Gift Certificate to the CropStop Store.

CropStop is looking forward to seeing your fab projects using Spellbinder Arts Dies!! You can find many of wonderful Spellbinder products in the CropStop Store.

A New Little Princess!

2011-03-17T17:40:00.001-04:00

The past few weeks have been crazy busy to say the least. Our youngest daughter and her husband will be blessing us with a "New Little Princess" in May! We are over the moon that we are adding a granddaughter to our circle of grandchildren which now has two grandsons!

This weekend is the baby shower and I have been working on invitations, favors, centerpieces and other decorations. It will all come together with our "A New Little Princess Is On The Way" theme and be over before we know it!

Here are some of the creations for the shower!

The invitations! I used my Sizzix Scalloped Bigz Die and Spellbinder Labels 10 die.

This diaper cake CASTLE turned out awesome! I am so excited about it. The center of the castle is a square basket filled with baby supplies...rattles, thermometer, bibs, baby wipes, etc. I used some of my scrappy supplies on it too...Dew Drops, cardstock, inks, butterflies and ribbon. The towers are plastic baby bottles filled with shredded pearlescent grass. The flags are made from MME Market Street Princess line of patterned papers. This castle is for the "Mommy" table! The table centerpieces are little trees decorated with rocking horses, flowers, baby bottles, and diaper pins. The deer on either side are Beany Babies, Honey and Nutmeg. These were perfect and went with the nursery Woodland theme. The cardboard cake plates are covered with MME Stella Rose papers. Thanks, Natalie for helping me out so quickly!

The purse favors were made with a Sizzix Bigz Purse die cut and embossed with Crafts Too Daisy Embossing Folder. Inside the purse is a peppermint patty and if you are lucky, a heart sticker, naming you a door prize winner! I used jewels to embellish along with plastic princess wands.

I altered this tin to use along with our diaper "Wishing Well". The guests will be bringing a package of diapers to build a wishing well for baby Caraline. They will write their wishes for her on cards that will be saved in this trinket box!

I also altered this little notebook so we could keep track of gifts received. The tag on the front will have the information about the shower on it.

And last, the gift card that goes with the many gifts that I will shower our granddaughter with. I used the March 15th Card Sketch from My Sketch World! Thanks, Lucy!

I will be sharing lots of photos next week when the shower is over and I have recovered!!!