Cheryl Stamps and Scraps

EONAC8--Forgotten coloring mediums

2010-03-17T12:54:00.003-04:00

I wanted to submit a card for Alison's challenge for forgotten coloring mediums and found this one in my photos. It is colored with Copics which I have had no experience with. I had a class with Korin Sutherland from Sweet and Sassy Stamps and she really is a wiz at this coloring. Here is one of my tries following her instructions. It is so much fun and I can see why folks are so loving copics. Korin does mostly digital stamps and the images are precious. I love this one. I hope the copics do not get put on my back burner and I can improve.
Thanks for looking.
Cheryl

Last card from this class

2009-11-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

This is probably least favorite of the cards I made. It was made with the ornament punch and I just didn't "get it" as to how to layer these punch outs. I saw others and they were very cute, but not mine!!! The bottom layer is again made with the Top Note die. I do like these colors tho. This is the last card from this class, but I plan to go again so will have more to show you. It is awesome to be back doing what I love to do.

Cheryl

Another card

2009-11-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you see the glimmer in this beautiful card. I got to use the new shimmer paint from SU on this and I adore it. The center shape was made from the Top Note die--very clever use of it.

Thanks for looking. I have one more card for tomorrow.

Cheryl

Another card

2009-11-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

How would you like to receive this for a Christmas card? I adore it. So many neat details on it. I had so much fun.

Thanks for looking.

Cheryl

Another card

2009-10-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

I just love this card. Such a fall feel to it. I think this SU set (can't remember the name) could work for so many seasons and occasions. Love it!!

Thanks for looking.

Hey, I stamped!!

2009-10-30T11:10:00.003-04:00

Mindy and I went to a stamp class yesterday and I had a complete and absolute ball stamping. I have missed it so much. This card used some of the new DP from SU with a glossy pattern to it which I sponged in various shades of blue. The stamped the image and glittered up punched out snowflakes. What fun and I love the sheen this card has.

Thanks for looking.

Cheryl

Lake in Wood Resort

2009-10-22T10:31:00.000-04:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Digital Ink Challenge blog candy

2009-10-06T18:43:00.001-04:00

I have not gotten into digital yet, but this just may make me take the leap. Doesn't it look fantastic. Go to this site and sign up for the blog candy http://digital-inkcochallenge.blogspot.com/2009/09/c-e-l-e-b-r-t-e-good-times-blog-candy.html

Win a Cricut Gypst

2009-09-30T09:57:00.003-04:00

http://www.cartridgehelper.com/

Wouldn't you love to win a Cricut Gypsy? Go to this website and follow the instructions to get in the drawing. How awesome!!!

Mindy has gotten a Cricut and would love to have one of these. She is a tech person and would make good use of it.

Cheryl

My-Kap for the Keurig machine

2009-09-27T20:41:00.002-04:00

I found this site advertising the kaps to reuse the Keurig cups and am impressed. I thought maybe if any of you read this blog and have a Keurig machine that you may like to try them. Here is the site and I also have it posted on top of my blog. Let me know if you try them. Thanks.http://www.my-kap.com/MYK/

(In)Courage

2009-08-09T16:41:00.002-04:00

I am supposed to write in my blog about what encourages me. This has taken a lot of thought and what I have come up with is very simple, so don't know why I had to think so long. My family encourages me, namely my beautiful, empathetic daughter. She always has a word of encouragement and the very best advice. Right at this moment I feel very blessed to be living near her so that I can see her whenever I want to. Being in person is much better than the phone.

Anyhow, go visit the blog http://www.incourage.me/ and get some encouragement. It looks awesome to me.

Cheryl

Cuttlebug spot contest

2009-07-12T10:57:00.000-04:00

Entry Title: Win $1,000 at TheCuttlebugSpot.com!

I have just discovered that The Cuttlebug Spot is having a contest - "The Journey to 1,000"! They are trying to reach 1,000 followers by the end of July and need your help. To enter all you have to do is go to their site, sign up as follower and complete a few easy steps and you could win a $1,000 gift certificate to Custom Crops (www.CustomCrops.com)! GO NOW and check it out atwww.TheCuttlebugSpot.com

Go and check it out!!! Awesome.

Time for an update

2009-07-07T11:01:00.003-04:00

Well, lots of time has passed since I have last posted and lots of changes have occurred. We are now at a beautiful campground in PA called Lake In Wood where Jerry and I are working in order to have a site here. We are 30 minutes from our daughter and an hour from our son. Our son and his wife are due to have their first baby (a boy) around Thanksgiving. How lucky for us that God has placed us here to be near the people we care the most about. Sometimes what seems to be a crisis really becomes a blessing. I miss NC and always will but can not ever see us buying another home there. We enjoy the RV and campground life and Gracie has really adjusted well to it. Jerry is doing many odd jobs around the campground and I get to wash the cleaning cloths and also tend the gate. I have met many wonderful people. ( I do miss that southern drawl and the friendliness of the south tho.) We are in the heart of PA Dutch Country and the roadside produce is amazing.

As for my stamping, Mindy has all of my stash of supplies and I go to her home and we create together. I am sorry that I have not taken photos of what I have made, but I will try to do that so that my blog can be updated with my creations. She is a SU demo and I help her with her clubs and have met some nice ladies that way. I was so depressed about not being able to stamp and now I can altho I felt so inept the first few times I tried it again. I am proud of Mindy as she is showing great creativity and seems to enjoy it. I never imagined that she would be interested in this.

Anyhow, that is what is going on with me. I think I will survive this change in our lives but would appreciate Jerry to get a job with some benefits but maybe that is in His plans someday. I trust that all will work out.

Thank you for checking in with me. I have a feeling that no one reads my blog any longer, but that is ok. I will post anyhow!!! LOL.

Cheryl

Stampin Up Big Shot

2009-07-07T08:58:00.001-04:00

Stampin Addicts dot com has tons of ideas using the Stampin’ Up! Big Shot and is giving away a Big Shot Die Pack as part of the Stampin’ Up! summer celebration. To enter, all you have to do is write about it. This is my entry. Now give me my dies.

I really do miss these folks.

2009-07-07T08:49:00.002-04:00

http://blessedalatte.blogspot.com

I really do miss these two folks. I think Laura was a real lady and was a fabulous first lady.

Please visit the blog above to read more about the blog candy you could win.

I will be posting again about what is going on in my life right now soon.

Cheryl

Where have I been?

2009-03-16T10:19:00.002-04:00

It is has been way too long since I posted and I guess I had better explain what is going on. In November my husband got laid off from his job--he was part of the big Nascar layoff, and at 60 years of age, has been unable to find a job. We have sold our home and are now living in a campground where he is volunteering to pay for our site. He enjoys the work and the harder and heavier it is, the better he is. I, on the other hand, am a basket case all the time. I have given all, and I mean all, of my stamping and scraping stash to our daughter. I hated to sell it because what if I can resume the hobby that I adored? So, it sits waiting for me in PA while I am here in NC. Our plans are to move into a trailer in Florida that my mom owns, but that won't be until the end of camping season and you never know what resume will produce a job. We are without any health insurance because Cobra for us ceased to exist since the team he worked with closed its doors. I need an epidural badly as it is difficult for me to walk and climbing the steps into the camper is downright painful. I know that God closes one door and opens another, so I am trying to maintain a positive outlook that eventually all will be ok. It is hard to dispose of our household items as the closing is the 30th and we have had less than a month to do this. I think Habitat for Humanity will be very pleased with us as the month wears on. We are so lucky that our house sold less than a month after putting it on the market. We didn't make any money but the drain on our budget will be done.

Thank God for our wonderful children for helping us out. We couldn't do this without them. Jerry's ultimate goal would be to work in a campground for pay. He loves this lifestyle and if we could be paid so we could pay bills, it would be fantastic.

If you are reading this, I would appreciate your prayers and good wishes that all will work out for us. As for sharing any of my stamping, I guess there will be none. Not sure if I will continue this blog by heading another direction or what. Thank you for being loyal to me and reading what I write. I appreciate it so much.

Cheryl

Mindy's advent calendar

2008-12-10T22:05:00.002-05:00

Hi all--I need to plug Mindy's blog so that you will go see her awesome advent calendar that she made. She is showing a page every day and I am so proud of her as each page is her own design. She is not like me who can't do anything without CASEing it. Mindy designed each page on her own and has hours of work in it. Please go check it out at http://craftersclubreadingpa.blogspot.com/ and leave her a comment. I know she would appreciate it. I am one proud mom!
Thanks for checking in.
I won blog candy for a tutorial on an ornament box from Andrea so as soon as I make it, I will post it. Looks like a very neat box.
Cheryl

Sorry for the absence

2008-12-07T09:41:00.002-05:00

I am so sorry that I haven't posted. I really haven't been in the best of moods lately and have lacked creativity and the time to make anything. This has been a very difficult time for us as we lost my father-in-law in March, my stepfather in Sept. , my precious Abby in Oct, and now to top it off, my husband was one of the employees hit by the Nascar team layoffs. So here we are, 60 years old and living on unemployment. What a horrible year. I am trying so hard to use positive thinking and not feel sorry for myself. It is difficult. We will survive and be stronger for it, I am sure, but right now, it is hard.

So, with that being said, I will be working on my Christmas cards, some handmade gifts to give out and then will post the results on my blog. Please don't give up on me. I am so sorry that I haven't given you any eye candy in so long, but that will change. I am a fighter and usually a very optimistic and upbeat person.

I will be back.
Cheryl

Dreams du Jour-part 5

2008-11-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

I have not had this much fun in a long time. This is the last card of the class and I wish it weren't over. I get such satisfaction from a completed card (even if it isn't perfect) and hope that whoever receives it gets as much. Mindy did a terrific job with the class and I am looking forward to many more. I wish more of you were in her area of Reading, PA and could take advantage of this. Maybe she will do a class by mail if anyone is interested. Contact me if you are interested in something like this. She would do an awesome job.
Thanks for looking in on me and following this creation. I had a ball.
Cheryl

Dreams du Jour-part4

2008-11-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

Don't you just love the butterflies on this card? The one on the bottom corner is loaded with sparkle as it has dazzling diamonds on it. Who wouldn't love to get this card? What an awesome class.
Part 5 tomorrow.
Cheryl

Dreams du Jour-part 3

2008-11-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is the second card from the Dreams Du Jour class that Mindy taught. It uses the new scalloped square punch. I adore that Bella Rose DP. It is so pretty. Colored with the blender pen and classic inks.
Thanks for looking in--part 4 tomorrow.
Cheryl

Dreams du Jour-part 2

2008-11-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is the first card that I made. It is made with the new color Pink Piroutte and the Bella Rose DP. I love this. I think the chocolate chip just sets it off. the coloring is done with the classic inks and blender pen.
Tomorrow I will share the next card.
Thanks for looking in and thank you Mindy for such a great class.
Cheryl

Sorry

2008-11-13T11:41:00.001-05:00

I made a mistake in posting part 5 now--it was scheduled to be posted on the 18th, but as you can see, it was done now. I am sorry but this way you got to see 2 of the cards today!!! I hope Blogger doesn't mess me up again. Thanks for understanding.
Cheryl

Dreams du Jour--part 1

2008-11-13T11:20:00.002-05:00

Here is the closeup of the Dreams du Jour card holder box that I made in Mindy's class. I think it is very pretty. I will post individual photos of the cards in the next few days.
Thanks for looking in.
Cheryl

Camping at Banjo Creek

2008-11-11T16:43:00.004-05:00

We spent the weekend at a campground not far from home and here is our site. It was a spectacular weekend and so relaxing. We enjoyed a campfire and dinner with friends and I even got time to actually clean the camper like I want. Here is Jerry waving to me from the front. I could just stay there longer. I love nature.
Thanks for reading.
Cheryl

Dreams du Jour

2008-11-11T16:37:00.003-05:00

This is just a teaser to show you what I have been working on. Mindy has a class on making this box and cards with the Dreams du Jour stamp set from SU. Rather than show you the cards close up right now, I will show a few each day. This set is made from the new in colors and also the Bella Rose Designer paper (which I love!!). It has been such fun to make. So, I hope you will check back in to see the cards up close and personal!
Thanks for looking in on me.
Cheryl

Jerry's birthday

2008-11-08T08:15:00.000-05:00

This was Jerry's big 60 birthday so I made him a card. Inside it says "You're not old, you're a classic!" I think he liked it. Now we are both 60 and that makes me happy. We had some friends in for dinner and had his favorite--boiled dinner with cabbage, carrots, potatoes, onions, and smoked sausage, plus my friend made him a chocolate cake with white icing (which he requested) and peanut butter icing on half (which we girls wanted). It was a nice evening.
The stamps on this card were from Clear Dollar Stamps. They stamp so well and the price is right.
Thanks for looking in.
Cheryl

Nothing could be finer than to be in Carolina in the morning!!!!

2008-11-07T08:12:00.002-05:00

Here is why I adore North Carolina. It just doesn't get any better than this. Our back yard this morning is just ablaze with color.
Thanks for looking in.
Cheryl

Counting my Blessings

2008-11-06T16:56:00.002-05:00

I almost CASED this card directly from Debbie at Thinking Inking. I fell in love with her design and the colors are spectacular. I didn't have the exact colors she had so I substituted SU colors. She used all PTI cardstock. But I did have the stamp set First Fruits so could pretty much do it. I love how it turned out.
And I am counting my blessings as I got out Jerry's old camera and charged the battery and crossed my fingers and it worked!!!! So, I am back in business again. I still can't imagine how I lost my cute little camera but this is ok for now.
And today I feel better. I picked up Abby's ashes yesterday so it was a rough day for me, but today I feel that a veil of depression has been lifted and my mind is clear once more. It has been a rough time lately.
Thanks for checking in and I will be posting another card that I made for Jerry's birthday tomorrow. I think it is a cute one.
Thanks for checking in with me today. I am thankful.
Cheryl

2008-11-04T18:55:00.002-05:00

I don't know what to title this post as I am just a mess!! Not only have I lost my precious dog Abby, but now I think I am losing my mind as well! I can not find my camera anywhere. I was ready to take a photo of a card I made today and couldn't find my camera. I have searched all afternoon. I can not imagine where it is. I am praying that it just turns up because what is a blog without a camera to take photos to post. With Jerry's lack of job security right now, I don't feel that I can just go out and buy a new camera so not sure what I am going to do. Anyhow, sorry I don't have photos for you. My card turned out pretty. I used First Fruits from Papertray ink. That is such a pretty set.
Hope to be back soon with photos.
Cheryl

Now some great news

2008-11-01T10:42:00.003-04:00

Amongst all the sadness that I have had this week comes this very bright spot. Our son and his girlfriend got engaged and are planning a Dec. 27th wedding. We love our future DIL and can't be more thrilled. So, I got my head together and made this card for them to celebrate. Our son deserves happiness and I know they will have it together. Isn't it nice that when you are at a low point, that something happens to lift you up?

Thanks for reading.

Cheryl

Life goes on!

2008-11-01T10:36:00.002-04:00

I thought if I waited a few days that I would be able to write this without tears in my eyes, but it just isn't happening. I had to have my precious Westie, Abby, put down on Wed. the 29th of Oct. It was by far the hardest thing I have had to do yet but I could see that she was beginning to be in pain and nothing could be done for her. The vet office met me with hugs and my sweet vet, Dr. Jones, was so compassionate. I feel so bad for others that have to do this, but as my vet said, "This is the most loving gesture that you have ever done for Abby." I take comfort in that. I will be receiving her ashes and they will stay with me. I miss her so much.
Thanks for reading.
Cheryl

Grandmothers for McCain

2008-10-19T10:15:00.003-04:00

I have been following Susie at http://grandmothersformccain.blogspot.com/ and I really love what she says about John McCain. I have not been very vocal in the political arena but in this election, I am. Please go and check out Susie's blog and read what she has to say. It all makes perfect sense to me. Thank you Susie for voicing your opinions. And if you agree with Susie (or even if you don't) link back to her blog and you may win the book "My Dad, John McCain" which even if you aren't in favor for McCain, is a touching and sweet book.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Mary Anderson

2008-10-19T08:41:00.002-04:00

I don't know how to find out but do any of you who read my blog have Mary Anderson's address? I really want to send her a card but can't find it anywhere and am just hoping that someone that reads mine, has it. Mary is such a precious person and got hurt and she needs to know that I am thinking about her. I hope someone can help me. Mary's blog "Its all about the journey" is amazing and I am really missing her.
Thanks so much and I will get back to posting some creations soon.
I have been away from home because my stepfather passed away unexpectedly so I have been in PA. Also I was at my daughters home helping her get ready for the open house to introduce folks to her Stampin' Up business. We had a ball creating cards and projects. What fun to craft with her. I would love it if you would check in on her blog at www.craftersclubreadingpa.blogspot.com Maybe you can see some of what we did!!! Also she is running a special on free shipping with a $75 order for the month of Oct. to hopefully jumpstart her business. That is a 10% savings which in these times is very helpful.
Thanks for checking in on me today and I am sorry to have been so absent.
Get well Mary if you are reading this.
Cheryl

A Little Pick up

2008-09-22T16:46:00.002-04:00

Jerry and I have a camping friend who suffered a stroke about a month ago and needless to say, he is having a hard time staying "up", so I thought he could use a "little pick up." This SU set called Loads of Love is such a versatile set and I love everything about it. I used to have trouble masking and getting everything in the right place, but I am catching on. I hope this one never retires!
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Another birthday card

2008-09-22T16:42:00.003-04:00

Isn't this just the cutest card? Jen Young from Pieces of Me sent me this card as a part of JT's Birthday RAK club. I have toyed with buying this set, but there are other things that I buy and this gets put on the back burner. I sure do like it tho. Thank you Jen for helping to make my birthday special.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Hidden message slider card-boy edition

2008-09-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

I thought our grandson could use a card to celebrate his first day of school and this is what I came up with. It is using a set from Inque boutique as well as the paper from that company. I love Inque Boutique stamps as their indexing makes them very easy to use and get good placement. this is a very cute card design and fun to make.
Thanks for checking in on me today.
Cheryl

Hidden message slider card

2008-09-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

I made this cute card for my sister. The thinking of you message is hidden under the heart panel and you pull the tag on the right side to pull it out. It is made with the SU set Always. I CASED this from someone but can't remember who--if it is yours, let me know and I will give you credit. I should write these things down.
Thanks for checking in on me.
Cheryl

Butterfly Kisses

2008-09-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

I cased this card from Sara Paschal. I stamped the butterfly twice--once on the cardstock and once on the vellum and I cut the velum out and layered it on top with a glue dot. I love the brown cardstock from SU. Of course I don't remember the name of it, but it is retired. I would love to buy some of the PTI cardstock with the butterflies on it.
Thanks for checking in on me today.
Cheryl

Our Daily Bread designs angel stamp

2008-09-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

I won blog candy from Angie at www.quackingcreations.blogspot.com and it was this awesome angel stamp from Our Daily Bread. I stamped off one of the Lockhart Angel stamps under the sentiment. I am in love with angel stamps and can't have enough of them. This card is going to my sister who is recuperating from cervical surgery. I hope she likes it.
Thanks so much Angie for the wonderful blog candy.
Thanks for checking in on me today.
Cheryl

Paper quilted card

2008-09-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

I have had such a good time making different cards with different techniques. I am actually quite adventurous even tho I never thought I was. I didn't finish this card off as I am not sure who I will send it to and what the occasion would be so the circle with the sentiment on it will go on the top circle. This was such a fun technique. I love the finished card and will make another one of these someday.
Thanks for checking in on me.
Cheryl

Stampin' Up website for Mindy

2008-09-13T09:47:00.003-04:00

Mindy has already received her Stampin' Up website and has worked so hard at personalizing it. Please go check it out if you would. I would appreciate it very much. She is so excited and has so many ideas to make her club special and fun. The projects she has in mind to do will be unique and useful. I pray that this will be a success for her. Thank you all for your support of our daughter. Here is her link http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/craftersclubreading/mystory
Thanks for checking in on me today.
Cheryl

Try a new technique from Splitcoast

2008-09-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

I can't remember what this technique is called but it used a piece of acetate, Lumiere, and reinkers. I only have a couple of reinkers and they are not SU, so I am not real happy with the color of this. I really wanted pink and it is lavender. I wish you could see the shine and also the embossing that I did with a cuttlebug folder. I think I will send this to my sister in law for her birthday. It is quite pretty in person even tho I don't care for the color.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Big Announcement

2008-09-12T12:46:00.002-04:00

I am so happy for our daughter, Mindy. She has decided to come over to the "crafting" side of life and has joined Stampin' Up as a demo. She is very excited about hosting workshops in her home as well as having a club that meets monthly. That is how I got started in my stamping and it has really blessed my life. I told her that I would spread the word and I hope that those of you who read my blog will go visit her blog and wish her the best as well as if you are in Reading, PA or near to her or have an interest in a long-distance club, will consider joining her in her new venture. Thanks.
Here is the link to her blog. http://craftersclubreadingpa.blogspot.com/
Thanks for checking in and please tell Mindy that you heard about it from me!!!
Cheryl

Lunch money tin

2008-09-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

Mindy had called and said that our grandson needed a way to keep his lunch money and bowling money while he was in school and had seen this altoid tin made into a little money tin. I said I would be more than happy to make one, so here is what I came up with. The stamp on the front is from Melanies stamp set "What's in your tin" that is available at Gina K designs. The little robot stamp is from Inque Boutique as well as the paper that I used. I couldn't figure out how to get the robot on the front and I didn't really have any "boy" stamps that would work, so here it is. Our grandson can print his name on it himself.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Corrected website

2008-09-11T15:54:00.002-04:00

I made a mistake with Julies web address in the last post and wanted to make sure that I fixed it because her post is really worth looking at and seeing her pretty rose. It is certainly better than mine, but I am still happy with mine. Her website is www.paperpleasing.typepad.com and the link directly to the rose post is http://paperpleasing.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/07/anniversary-rose.html
Thank you Julie--sorry about the mistake.
Cheryl

Anniversary card

2008-09-11T12:42:00.003-04:00

I needed to make an anniversary card for my parents and I had seen this beautiful paper rose on www.paperpleasingideas.typepad.com and fell in love with it. She had a great tutorial on how to do it and I followed it to a T so this is a complete CASE from Julie!! I really love how it turned out. I used Happy Anniversary from PTI, I think it was the papertrey set. I don't have many stamps for an anniversary.
Thanks for looking in on me today.
Cheryl

Camping at Willowtree Resort outside of Myrtle Beach

2008-09-09T15:35:00.002-04:00

We spent the weekend at Willowtree Resort in Longs, SC which is just outside of Myrtle Beach, SC. This is our view from the rear of our camper. We had rented a site by the Lake and we had our own hot tub ( We didn't use but our son did). I do believe this is the nicest campground that we have ever been to. It was just about empty last weekend due to tropical storm Hanna coming thru but we were brave and stayed in the camper and as you can see, after the storm, it was well worth it as the weather was perfect.
This is what we love to do with our camper. We put the rear tail gate down and secure it as a deck. We decided to have dinner on the deck and here the dogs and I are waiting for Jerry to bring us our dinner. How perfect.
Here is our camper with Jerry stowing the jeep in the rear of it. It is always so sad to leave such a beautiful place. We do have 2 more trips to this campground planned. If you do RV, and you live within driving distance to this campground, I would have to highly recommend it.
Thanks for checking in on us.
Cheryl

Another faux silk

2008-09-09T15:29:00.003-04:00

I made a couple different faux silk pieces and I really like this one the best. This is made from the stamp set "Roses in Winter" which is my all time favorite set and it is discontinued from SU. I am not sure that the green thanks punch piece goes with it, but all in all, I love this card. Thanks for checking in on me today.
Cheryl

Faux silk

2008-09-04T07:21:00.002-04:00

I had to make a couple thank you cards for my birthday gifts and thought I would try a new technique so faux silk it was. I had this Serene Sunflower stamp set for the longest time and it had never seen ink, so it was time to use it as well as the punch box. I glittered the faux silk piece up for a little bling and off it went to my sister!!

Some personal stuff--our camper sits at Myrtle Beach waiting for us to arrive tonite so that we can go see Kenny Rogers at the Alabama Theater but it looks to me that Hanna is going to arrive and spoil our fun. I am not sure exactly what we will do but we may just pull the camper home tomorrow. I hate that we are wasting one of my husband's precious vacation days but it can't be helped. Please pray for our safety. Thanks.
Thank you for checking in on me.
Cheryl

Birthday cupcake

2008-08-29T13:41:00.002-04:00

I saw this on a blog with instructions and just had to make it. If you like it to, go to http://inspirationaltechniquesandtutorials.blogspot.com/2008/08/cupcakes-yum.html
and have a go at it. It was such fun to make and I love the finished card. The problem is that it is too big for any envelopes that I have. I did read on a blog how someone made it smaller and I just can't find where I saved it. If you know who did it, please let me know. My thanks to Valita for this idea. (Don't you just love her name?) I have no idea who will get this card, but it is one of my favorites.
Thanks for checking in on me today. Finally had something to share that I made.
Cheryl

An old award

2008-08-29T13:28:00.002-04:00

I got this award quite awhile ago from Jana at www.2worldswing.blogspot.com and didn't know how to do a link for this. Finally Wanda told me how to do it and it is easy so here is the award. I am very proud that Jana awarded me this as she is so talented and such a sweet person. And the best news of all is that she is going to have a baby!! So, stop by her blog and congratulate her, ok? Thanks giving me this award Jana. I appreciate it.

Cheryl

An award

2008-08-29T13:20:00.004-04:00

I have been awarded an award by Wanda at My Creative Corner http://www.starlightstamper.com/ (maybe that was the old name of her blog) but go check her out if you aren't a groupy already. She does fantastic work and always has some neat project or tutorial. Thank you Wanda for giving me this award. I am honored that someone as famous as you has visited my little blog.

As for awarding others, I think I am one of the last to get this, but if you are reading my blog, then consider yourself awarded. I appreciate that you are here to read my words.

Thank you Wanda.

Cheryl

My sweet Abby

2008-08-28T16:01:00.004-04:00

I know you are bored with my blog but I really wanted to introduce you to Abby, our 14 year old Westie. Abby has been quite sick this summer and I have been so frightened that we were going to have to put her down several times. Right now she seems to be holding her own. She is so sweet and I love her dearly. I have had a very hard time with her being sick. I don't know how I ever raised children.
This is Abby's favorite place to be--up high on the back of the sofa. She can't get up there by herself any longer, so I help her and she is happy on her perch.
I will take some photos of our little Gracie, shih-tzu/poodle mix who will be 3 next month. I thank God I have her. I love my doggies.
Thanks for checking in on me.
I promise, I will post some of the cards I have made. I love some of them for a change!!
Cheryl

I can't believe I'm 60!!

2008-08-28T15:55:00.002-04:00

My bestest friend Cindy gave me these cupcakes and the candle for my birthday. The card is a riot. It is one of those ones that play songs and it is "Let the Sun Shine." She is so thoughtful.
I guess people like to rub it in when you turn 60 because my best friend from nursing school sent me a card with a big 6-0 on it and then this precious little angel. No one wants me to forget that I am 60 I guess. My body won't let me forget.
Thanks to you all, my friends.
Cheryl

I am so blessed

2008-08-28T15:35:00.002-04:00

I just have to show you more of the great birthday cards that I received and give credit to these awesome stampers. The first card was made by Debbie Riches and it is such a happy, feel good card. I love the little bird. Thank you Debbie for putting a smile on my face.
I am a member of Splitcoaststampers Wish RAK group and this card came to me from Renae Crosby (luvtoembellish is her splitcoast name) and it just beautiful. It looks like she may have used rub on's on this card--I have never been brave enough to do that, but she has it down to a science. Thank you Renae. I appreciate being remembered.
Another Wish RAK friend, Judy (pianolady1026) sent me these goodies. The card is adorable and then she sent me a cuttlebugged piece of cardstock with the new pumpkin design. And to top it off, she sent a stamp set that would match this piece of cardstock with pumpkins. Can you see it? Awesome is all I can say. Thank you Judy. That was so sweet of you. I love the coloring on the card.
And then what can I say about my friend,Sara Paschal? Just look at this stunning card. It is drop dead gorgeous. Sara is spoiling me all the time. She even enclosed some word window punched phrases. Thank you sweet Sara.

I am going to make another post with some of the cute gifts that I received. Hope I haven't bored you too much, but I really wanted to show these great cards and maybe you will even get an idea from them.
Thanks for looking in.
Cheryl

More birthday cards

2008-08-26T16:03:00.003-04:00

I feel so blessed to have gotten some very nice birthday cards--this one is from Angelina Lilavois (AAA's MOM is her splitcoast name) and her blog is www.angiesaspiringart.blogspot.com. I adore the colors she used. It is so fresh and happy. Thank you Angie.
Isn't this the prettiest card with the cuttlebugged background and the pretty flowers on it? I love it. This came from Mindy Young and is a Bloggers RAK card. Thank you so much Mindy.

I have some more cards to post but don't want to do too much in one day cause then it will be months before I post anything again--you know me!!! LOL

Thanks again for looking in.

Cheryl

Fresh Cuts

2008-08-26T15:57:00.001-04:00

I needed to make an anniversary card for my dad and his wife and had never used the Fresh Cut note card and stamps from SU, so thought this would be a good chance. It seems to me that there are lots of ways to use this set with these cards. I love the soft colors. Can't remember what ink I used but it may be bordering blue. I hope they like it.
Thanks for looking in.
Cheryl

Masculine cards

2008-08-24T10:09:00.004-04:00

We have a neighbor that we are very proud of. He got laid off from his job and decided he would get his GED so that he could better himself. His self confidence was very low and he didn't think he would ever be able to get through the classes. He persevered and after 2 months, he passed all of his tests. I am so very, very proud of this man. He graduates on Sept 2nd at the local community college and we plan to be there applauding him. He deserved a card make just for him to celebrate and this is what I came up with. It is the set "Take Pride" from TAC and the paper is from Creative Memories and SU. I am happy with the way it turned out.
While I had these papers out that appeared to be manish (!) I decided to make my dad a card as his birthday is Sept 17th. There just aren't many stamps that work for a man, but I had this "Ship Collage" stamp from TAC and the HB stamp from TAC(Free with $30, but is no longer available) and thought it would work perfectly. What you can't see is that I stamped it with Stazon black and then sprayed it pretty generously with silver glitzy mist that I had bought at a stamp show quite a while ago and never used. I was so impressed with Sara Paschal's use of her glittery mist that she made up and used that I thought I would try it. I think the ink would run if I used water based ink tho. Did I do right in using Stazon with this?
Sorry I haven't updated in so long. I really haven't felt all that great. I am having problems with the left side of my back (my right side that was operated on is wonderful) and can't bend and stand that good right now. I have an epidural injection scheduled for Wed. the 27th (what a birthday present!!!). Maybe I will have some relief and can be more prolific.

Thanks for checking in on me. I will say that I am keeping up with every one elses blogs tho.
Cheryl

Finally

2008-08-24T09:53:00.002-04:00

Look at this pretty thank you card that our daughter sent us!!! I had to ask her where she bought such a pretty flower and she said that she made it. WOW!! While we were in Williamsburg, VA, she bought this Klutz book on cardmaking and it seems that the instructions to make this flower was in it. She did a fantastic job. This is the girl who I never expected would be interested in any type of craft project. She went to a yard sale and bought tons of stamping supplies and a sizzix machine, so sounds like she is hooked!
I love, love, love this card. It is from Jen's birthday RAK club and came to me all the way from Australia from Jane (www.scossiejane.blogspot.com). I checked out her blog and she sure makes some pretty projects. This card is so awesome. By the way, if you know how she did this pretty tag that says warm wishes, please let me know. It is so elegant. If you are reading this Jane, thank you so very much for sending me this card from so far away.
I will be back with some of my creations. I have made several cards lately--all of the cased, but I am happy with them nonetheless.
Cheryl

Camping in the NC mountains

2008-08-04T07:26:00.003-04:00

This post is really more of a test as it has nothing to do with stamping. We just returned from a 5 day trip to the NC moutains and I wanted to show you a photo of our camper and the jeep that we haul in it. We stayed at Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge and Campground in Stehoah, NC and we were the only ones there without a bike! You would expect it would be a noisy and rowdy place but it was so peaceful and quiet with the friendliest people. I would say that if we spent any more time there that we would have wanted a motorcycle! We had the best prime rib dinner on Sat. night that they serve right there at the campground. We had no tv so really got out of touch. It was a very relaxing vacation. Jerry said that we put about 600 miles on the jeep driving the beautiful, curvy mountain roads. I will post some pretty pix of the scenery there.

And for eye candy!! LOL. Here I am, in all my chubby glory, standing at the visitor center at the Fontana Dam. The photo just doesn't show the glorious scenery. If anyone could possibly doubt the existence of God, all they need to do is visit this area and be amazed.

I will post more later. I need to get the house organized.

Cheryl

Pix of Jerry and me

2008-07-29T14:36:00.002-04:00

Well, I know it isn't a very good photo but a lady offered to take a photo of us when we were at Historic Jamestown, VA in front of the John Smith statue. I am not real fond of having my photo taken. I need to be more like Mary Anderson--she has such lovely photos of her taken. Jerry always looks so stiff and ill at ease in his pix. Anyhow, we had a wonderful time in Williamsburg. We visited Busch Gardens, Historic Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and even went to the Plantations along the James River. One night we bought tickets to go to a "dance" at the palace in Colonial Williamsburg and it was fun. Our grandson even got to dance. The dancers made it seem like a play and we were invited to an evening party at one of the big plantations to imagine what it would have been nice. Those early settlers loved to dance!! They would dance all night long. Our week in Williamsburg ended much too soon. I did get to visit the stamp store there, but held back and didn't buy anything.
Thanks for looking in on me.
Cheryl

Finally, some cards

2008-07-29T14:26:00.004-04:00

This had to be the first card I am showing as it came from my friend, Sara Paschal (Sara's Studio) and it is stunning, as are all of her creations. I wish you all could see it in person. Sara knows just when to send a uplifting greeting and it came at just the right time when I needed it. Thank you so much, sweet Sara.

We spent a wonderful week camping in Williamsburg, VA with our daughter and grandkids and when I got home, I made this cute little "spring" card with an image from Pink Petticoat. It is so sweet and I loaded it with glitter. I miss those grands!!! We had such a good time and the weather was perfect.

We have twins that live next door to us and they had their 5th birthday last weekend, so I had to make them a card to go along with the tooth tin. I used images from Pink Petticoat for them too. One of the girls loves purple so I made her card purple. This is the first time I had downloaded images like this and I will do it again sometime.

This is the purple card. Wish you could see the glitter. Cute....

Thanks for checking in with me.

Cheryl

Blogger won't upload photos

2008-07-29T09:28:00.002-04:00

Try as I might, I can not get Blogger to upload any photos today. I have a couple cards to show you and now I can't, but I will try when I get back home today. Have you ever heard of Pink Petticoat? Well, Jen from Pieces of Me showed a card she had made with an image she had downloaded from Pink Petticoat and I feel in love with the little lamb. So, I got over my fear of downloading and went for it and these are the cards I want to show you. Very neat. I will try later. I also have a card that my buddy Sara Paschal sent me that is stunning and I want you all to see it. She has the most elegant style of stamping.
So, with luck, Blogger will let me get these photos up for you to see.
If I don't get it done today, it will be next week before I can do anything.
Cheryl

I'm back

2008-07-25T15:56:00.003-04:00

I made this clipboard for my niece because I thought she looked so pretty in her prom gown. I used the UHU twist and glue to glue down the papers and the photo. The stamps on the board are from TAC. I have a question tho--My mod podge is still sticky after a month and a half. Is there something I should be be spraying on it to set it? I have had this same problem with every item I have used Mod Podge on. Thanks for any help on this.

I made these tooth fairy tins for the twins next door who turned 5 on the 23rd. I bought this stamp set from Gina K and was so anxious to make this for them. I used the UHU twist and glue to glue the cardstock and the ribbon around the top. It worked fabulously. I will be using this product more.

When you are out shopping this is a photo of the "Twist and Glue" so you will know what to buy. It works so well. I love that the applicator tip can put out a line of thin glue or thick glue. Try it and see what you think.

Thanks for checking in on me and I will be posting some cards that I made soon.

Cheryl

Update on my back surgery, LSI

2008-06-13T11:48:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone!!!
I thought I had better post an update to how I am doing now. It has been 7 weeks since I had the laser back surgery and I can feel an improvement every day now. At 6 weeks it felt like a switch had been thrown and I was almost better over night. I still am doing my exercises and have started walking at our local park for 25 min. Last night when I finished my walk, I had NO pain. Wow!! I am still taking some extra strength Tylenol but not sure that I really need it. I am very impressed with LSI and if anyone needs to have back surgery for spinal stenosis or ruptured or bulging discs, I think a consult with LSI would be in order. The surgeons are all skilled and American and have done many, many of these operations (I can't remember the number, but on my day of surgery, they did 15 cases and usually do 20-25--can't beat that for experience.) I have read some negative thoughts on LSI, but in my opinion after being there and going through the entire process, I am most impressed. I am thankful that I went this route. Now if only my health insurance will pay it. That is the one negative, that it is considered experimental surgery and they have denied my coverage for it. But, LSI has a great medical team that deals with these denials and has good experience in getting payment. Let's pray as we really didn't need to spend all this money right now, but my health is worth it (I guess!!!).
Thanks for reading and if you have any questions, let me know.
Hope to get back to stamping soon. I see so many pretty things on the blogs.
Cheryl

A RAK from my TAC upline

2008-06-12T14:01:00.003-04:00

My upline from TAC, Janaina Oliveira, has really spoiled me. Aside from all the help she provides for me in TAC, she sent me this great box of goodies from her trip home to Brazil. Wow!!! She made this adorable little basket which held (you see I said held, not holds) candy. It didn't last me long--yum. And she sent this postcard of the beach she used to frequent. Her mother made this beautiful towel by hand. I am honored to have it in my possession. Thank you for thinking of me Jana. Brazil is a most beautiful country and it sure does produce great people (YOU!!!).
Thanks for looking at this.
Cheryl

More Bloggers RAKs

2008-06-12T13:05:00.003-04:00

Isn't this just the cutest card? You can't see the sparkle in it but the flip flops have sparkle as well as the dots in the strips of cardstock. So sweet. It sure does speak summer to me. This is from Nancy of www.nancyscreativemess.blogspot.com. Nancy, you did a terrific job with this card and I adore it. Who but you would have thought to layer all those different patterned papers together. It is fantastic. Thank you.
This work of art is from Deb (SCS Crafty Turtle) www.mylittlecraftingcorner.blogspot.com Deb is our fearless leader of the SCS Bloggers RAK club. She was so sweet as she knew about my surgery and sent this card and told me that I didn't need to post it--just take care of myself--Well, I just knew that others needed to see this pretty card so here it is. Deb even did paper piercing along the top and has some bling in one of the flowers. It is a real beauty. Thank you for your thoughtfulness Deb.
My good friend Sara Paschal sent me this elegant friend card. Sara has been beside me this entire blogging trip and has supported me, emailed me, sent goodie boxes, cards when I least expected them, and was just a friend. She means so much to me and is a very special person. I only hope that someday we really get to meet so I can thank her in person for all she has done. I don't believe I have ever met such a giving, non selfish person in my life. Thank you Sara for this awesome card. You creativity never fails to amaze me. Go check out Saras blog and see what all this creative person is up to. www.sarastudio.blogspot.com You will be very glad you did.
Last but not least, I won this stamp set called Serenity from Jana Weaver. Look at the precious holder that she inserted the stamp set into!! Talk about creative. This gal is super!!! I love reading her blog www.stampwithjana.blogspot.com She is so well traveled. Thanks so much Jana for this stamp set. If only I could do yoga like this gal does I would be all set!!!

I think I am caught up with all the terrific RAKS that I have received. Thank you one and all--you made me feel so special.
Cheryl

Bloggers RAK

2008-06-12T12:35:00.002-04:00

I have some cards that I received from Splitcoast Bloggers RAK that I really need to show off because they are spectacular. This one if from Marie McClellan (www.bootstostamps.blogspot.com). She used the daisy stamp from Kitchen Sink Stamps which I have really been wanting. I think this card is just beautiful and it really picked up my mood. Thank you so much Marie. You were so thoughtful to send this.
And then just look at this beauty!!! This is from Tammy Fite (www.stampwithtammy.com) The colors Tammy used are so peaceful and calming. It is such a great day when a RAK comes in the mailbox.

I have a few more to post and I will do that in another post. Thank you both so much for thinking of me. I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate it.
Cheryl

Back surgery

2008-05-08T17:14:00.001-04:00

Hi all, I thought I had better post an update to my blog for the few of you who visit me letting you know what is going on. I went last week to Tampa Florida to the Laser Spine Institute to have back surgery. It is an amazing place. I have spinal stenosis and a bulging disc as well as many bone spurs. I read about this laser center and phoned many folks who had surgery there and then opted to have it done. It is a 5 day process and my friend, Cindy, went with me to be my nurse. We stayed in a hotel near the center so could walk back and forth. The surgery was last Tues. and we flew home on Thurs. I am doing pretty good but not able to bend and still have stitches (they will be taken out on Tues). My incision is small--just an inch and a half. Compared to traditional open back surgery, this recovery period is 8 weeks versus the 9 months with open back. I was walking an hour after the surgery. AMAZING. Anyhow, I am not able to make any cards right now so have nothing to post, but wanted to let you know about my absence. If you are interested in this LSI, let me know and I will tell you all about it.
Thanks for checking in.

Any problems with Google Reader?

2008-05-02T14:06:00.002-04:00

Hi, I have been away for a week having some back surgery in FL and now when I try to access my Google Reader to try to get caught up, all I get is an error message. I was wondering if anyone else is having problems with it. I never realized how much I depend on Reader. This is horrible.
I feel so out of touch without it and could never begin to recreate the list of blogs that I read.
Thanks.
Cheryl

Sunday cards

2008-04-13T20:06:00.002-04:00

Jerry's uncle is turning 90 years old in May and the family is having a surprise party for him. He is NH and that is a little far for us to travel for just a day (we'd love to tho), so I made this card for him. I bought some paper at this new scrapbook store that Pat and I went to (www.stampandscrapbookroom.com) which is called Core'dinations and the core is colored. So I ran it thru the Big Shot with a cuttlebug folder and then sanded it. There are so many beautiful shades available. I can't wait til we go again. This place was like a candy store. So, that is the card I made with it.

This card is for Pat (don't think she reads my blog) for her birthday. It is made with versamark and then pastels. I think I read this on a blog about how to do it. It is quite pretty IRL.

I have been working most of the weekend on indexing my TAC stamps. I bought some great stamp containers and I will have to take a photo of them to show you. It is amazing the number of stamps that they hold. You will be impressed. I can buy more of these containers at the above store. I bet she does mailorder too. What a place.

Thanks for checking in today. I will take a photo of my stamp storage for you and post it soon.

Cheryl

Ribbon PullEz purse

2008-04-10T15:46:00.003-04:00

I hope I didn't make a mistake, but I purchased the ribbon pullez purse after seeing it on Scraptime. I thought it would be such a good way to organize ribbon. It came today and I have been steadily working on getting my ribbon in it. As you can see, I have lots more room to insert more ribbon. Now the question is--Will the ribbon tangle and all I will have is one big mess? We shall see.
Cheryl

Some creations

2008-04-10T15:36:00.002-04:00

This card is a Dahlia fold card that I made for my stepmother's birthday. It was alot of work and this photo sure doesn't show it. I think it is quite pretty, but plain.
And then I decided to make my sister a worry tin as Sara Paschal has shown. I used the PTI DP and the stamp set Everyday Blessings. This shows the inside of the box.
Here is the outside of the tin. I used an altoid tin that I had saved.
Thanks for looking in.
Cheryl

Easter, Camping

2008-04-06T09:32:00.003-04:00

I don't know what happened on the last post, but Blogger decided to publish it before I had written anything!
The first pix is of the cute washcloth bunnies that our daughter made and I put a card that I had made for our granddaughter in the basket. The second pix is of the cards that I had made for the grandkids. I joined The Angel Company and got a boatload of stamps with my kit and this is one set I got. I am so impressed with these stamps and the impressions that they make. The price is excellent for what they give you and the minimums to be a demo are very doable. I need to figure out how to put the info on my blog so if you are interested in TAC stamps, you can contact me. I am very, very impressed.
The last photo is of our toyhauler camper sitting in its site we rented over Easter in New Bern, NC. We love this KOA and enjoy the city of New Bern and the area very much. It is too bad that we got the news of DH's father's death while we were there.
Thanks for checking in with me and if you want TAC info, let me know.
Cheryl

2008-04-06T09:28:00.000-04:00

Our front yard in spring splendour

2008-04-06T09:24:00.001-04:00

Just look at these beautiful Bradford Pear trees. Aren't they spectacular? Spring in NC is awesome.
Cheryl

Sorry for the absence

2008-04-06T09:15:00.002-04:00

Hi everybody. I am so sorry that I haven't posted in so long, but life just got in the way. This is a photo of my father-in-law with my husband and his daughter (my sister in law) taken at on Christmas eve. He passed away the day before Easter. He was a very special man and will be missed greatly. So, DH and I had a sad 1000 mile trip to make to go to the viewing and funeral. We are so grateful to all the folks who came out to pay their last respects to this great 91 year old man who touched so many lives. It was amazing to hear the stories that people told us as they came through the line. He was part of the lives of young folks and old folks. He was a farmer and in the last years had run a small vegetable stand in front of his house and sold the best vegetables that he raised. I have not had sweet corn as sweet and yummy since he quit raising it and we moved away. Anyhow, we will miss him and his sense of humor and love of family. One can't be too sad tho because he had a very full 91 years.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Valentines

2008-02-17T11:37:00.002-05:00

I just had to show you the Valentine that I made for my husband. I ordered the cloisonne heart by Michael Strong and then embossed it and followed his instructions for making the interlocking hearts. It was fun to make.

This is the card that was inside the interlocking heart envelope. I think DH really liked it. I know I had so much fun making it. I found the instructions on Craft TV weekly. Go check it out.

I am so proud of my sister. I bought her a SU card kit for Christmas and this is a card she made and sent me. Isn't it adorable? I think she did a fantastic job and I am so proud of her. Thank you Sister. That was so sweet of you.

Thanks for checking in on me today.

Look at these Valentines goodies!!!

2008-02-17T11:14:00.002-05:00

I was asked by my online friend Betty Todd to take part in a Valentines RAK--I had never done anything like this before so I agreed. Well, let me tell you!! I never could imagine in a million years getting boxes like I got from these gals. This one is from Joani McDonald http://joaniscardsmadebyhand.blogspot.com My gosh, what wonderful goodies. She sent me monogramed items, a beaded pen, rubons, chipboard accents, ribbon, a notepad on a coaster, and an adorable card. How nice. Thank you Joani for spoiling me rotten.
And then, look at this from Betty Todd. How did she ever have time to make all of this. I got altered note pads, a cute altoid tin scrapbook with places for me to write about me, a whisk with M&M's in it, a take out box with more candy (she knows my weakness), soap, cream, recipes that were altered, a beaded pen, glue stick, camping stickers (Betty knows that I love to camp), a stamper and some chipboard letters in my favorite color combo--blue and brown. I was just in awe. I wish someone had recorded my ooh's and aahh's as I was going thru this. I had been in Fl visiting my parents so couldn't open these til Friday, the 15th. I could hardly wait to get home because I knew I had some boxes waiting for me.
Oh, the most impt. thing, go see Betty at
http://ladybugscraps.blogspot.com Stampin and Scrappin with Betty.
Both of these friends do beautiful work and I know you will enjoy visiting their blogs.
And thanks for visiting me and seeing how spoiled I am. Thank you Betty and Joani. This was fun and you both really outdid yourselves.
Cheryl

Nugget holder

2008-02-01T15:55:00.000-05:00

This little nugget holder will hold 4 nuggets and was simple to make. I followed my "mentor" Nichole Heady to do it. I love it. I used the Limitless Labels stamp set. Wish I had gotten a different set tho for doing these nuggets, but I will use this one. It has some pretty stamps in it. I am obsessed right now with Papertrey, if you can't tell!!!
Thanks for checking in on me. I should post more often rather than a whole bunch at one time, but that is the way I am. Sorry.
Cheryl

Boxes

2008-02-01T15:48:00.000-05:00

Isn't this adorable? I have made so much stuff for our granddaughter that our grandson gets left out. I found this tutorial on the Scor-Pal website and thought how perfect it would be for him. It is an adorable window box. I used loads of love and on the inside lid I have Loads of love punched out in a heart and attached. It was very easy to make. I filled this with m&m's.
These are the little nugget purses that Angie Juda did a tutorial on. They are just the sweetest. I plan to give one of these to my massage therapist and my chiropractors nurse. They were simple to do.At least with Angies (chicken scratch) instructions. Thank you Angie.
Bye for now.
Cheryl

Altered items

2008-02-01T15:39:00.001-05:00

I made this darling little purse out of the clear card boxes from Papertrey Ink. You cut the box in half and then insert a piece of cardstock. I did a little shrink plastic charm for the front from the "Borders and corners" set and the ambassador monogram set from Papertrey ink. The handles are some ribbon.
Papertrey Ink has adorable heart boxes and what an easy thing to alter. I made this for my granddaughter also. I put M&M's in it. I think she will love it. Too bad this DP is not available any longer.
Window heart box from Papertrey. Isn't this pretty? I used Recollections paper which isn't available any more. I am getting about out of it. I then used Papertreys Beautiful Blooms for the flowers and used pop dots on them. I am not sure what I will do with this beauty. I love it but will give it away.
Thanks for looking in.

Papertrey stamps caseing

2008-02-01T15:26:00.000-05:00

I invested in some Papertrey Ink stamps and have had a ball caseing Nichole Heady for these cards. I change some things up as I don't have all the correct colors but I try to do them as close as possible. I think I am learning alot by doing this and someday maybe I can come up with my own design. This card uses the new set "out on a limb" and I think it is my most favorite set. The leaves match up on the limb and look so pretty. I did the stamping with SU colors and then dropped just a drop of water on each flower to make it look watercolored. I didn't use the Stampers Select cardstock and this cardstock buckled a little bit. I heard that the other won't do that.
I also cased this card done with Little Lady. I used some of the chalk inks on it. My one lady bug is done upside down but it doesn't look bad.
Another "out on a limb" done ala Nichole Heady. This was one of her sneak peaks and you cut pieces of cardstock and sponged the edges and then attached them to the cardstock base. I love this. One I did in blue and one I did in a light brown color. (bad me--I didn't write down my colors so don't remember. I should post very soon after I make my cards instead of waiting.). I love this technique and these cards are so pretty in person.
Another "Out on a Limb" done with a window and vellum. I made my own photo corners--didn't have the correct punch so they didn't turn out quite right, but it is still a pretty card.
Thanks for looking in. I hope you liked these Papertrey cards.

Embrace life

2008-01-26T09:16:00.000-05:00

I just love this stamp set, Embrace Life, and have seen so many pretty cards done with it. I loved this card done by Monica Davis (I did write this down!!) and set out to recreate it. I think it turned out very nice. I love the colors in it. I think I will use it for a birthday card for a good friend. I think it is one of my favorites that I have ever made.
Thanks for checking in with me.
Cheryl

Faux metal

2008-01-26T09:11:00.000-05:00

I don't know why I am showing this card as the image didn't come out as I wanted it to on the faux metal part. I was experimenting with this technique and saw a card (can't remember whose it was--should write it down) in the Splitcoast gallery that I fell in love with and tried to recreate it. I used a backgrounder from CHF and the first image was good and then when I tried to do more, none of them turned out. What a mess. I need to work on my backgrounder technique I guess. I planned to use this card for a friend's daughter's wedding, but not sure if I will now. Maybe she wouldn't notice the messup. Maybe I should try another and work on the background stamp. I got very frustrated.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Erika Martin's tutorial card

2008-01-26T09:06:00.000-05:00

Anyone who doesn't subscribe to Erika Martin's tutorials is really missing out especially if she is like me and not very good at coming up with her own designs. This was the last tutorial that I got from Erika and it looks very pretty in person. Erika writes her tutorials so clearly and it really gives me a chance to try a technique that I would never have tried. Check her out at www.stampinmama.typepad.com.
Thanks for looking in on me today.
Cheryl

Granddaughters Mailbox

2008-01-26T08:58:00.000-05:00

I had bought 2 of these precious mailboxes from Target last year but didn't have a clue how to go about decorating one. Well, Emily Giovanni had a tutorial on her blog about how to do it step by step and it was so clear that I knew I could do it. And here is the proof. I love this little mailbox and now I may do the other one I have. I used some retired SU paper on it, some ribbon from Jody Morrow's share a while ago, and some primas and some bling that I was gifted from Splitcoast Wish RAK. The brown ribbon over the box portion is from SU last year. I don't know what I will put in it as my daughter doesn't want her to have candy. Any ideas?
Thanks for looking in on me today.
Cheryl

Entry for Magnolia stamp contest

2008-01-11T10:07:00.000-05:00

I know this doesn't look that great on this post, but I had a ball making this card for my granddaugher's 3rd birthday. She loves anything princess and I know she will love this. I colored the image in with the spica glitter pens but I should have just used them for accent probably. I read this blog http://kraftinkimmieskorner.blogspot.com/2008/01/who-would-like-to-win-magnolia.html and thought that this would be just perfect to use to make this card and better yet, it is a contest for this adorable Magnolia stamp. I don't have any of them and this little angel would be well loved, so I am going to try to win her. I have never done anything like this before.
I cut the image out with my nestabilites, but to be honest, I am having problems with them. The embossing is not all that great and I have a hard time getting it started through the wizard. I almost wish I hadn't invested in them. I see others and they are so cute and they are loved, but I am just not making out that great.
Anyhow, the image I received from Splitcoast Stampers wish RAK and it is SU pretty princess. I think I will color her in differently the next time.
Anyhow, please wish me luck in winning this Magnolia stamp and while you are at it, check out Kimmies blog. She does awesome work.
Thanks for checking in with me.
Cheryl

Fiber 1 cereal

2008-01-10T16:40:00.000-05:00

Have you ever tried Fiber 1 cereal? I eat it almost every morning because I can get half of my daily fiber in just one serving. I haven't tried this yet, but there are some recipes that call for grinding the cereal up into crumbs and using it for a piecrust. I may just try this. I am trying to eat healthier this new year and this cereal is part of my plan.
If you are on Weight Watchers, fiber one cereal is 0 points.
If interested, here is a link to receive a free sample so you can see if you like it. http://www.startsampling.com/sm/FiberOneCereal/captureAddress.iphtml?item=25046&source=408&raf

Hurry tho as this offer expires soon.
Thanks for checking in with me today.
Cheryl

Ruffled Bloom

2008-01-05T12:54:00.000-05:00

This is a card done following another one of Erika Martins wonderful tutorials. I love getting these in my mailbox each Thurs. She is a most clever and inspirational stamper and I really appreciate getting these. I changed her stamps out because I don't have the set she used so I used the Stampendous ruffled bloom stamp that I have had for a while and it hasn't seen ink til today. This was a combination of stamping and the watercolor crayons. I even used some of the incolor cardstock-Wild Wasabi and Groovy Guava. The sentiment is from SU Love Matters and I stamped Celebrate from Send a Celebration on the inside so I could use it for either an anniversary or birthday. I made 2 of these and decided that I will make 2 of every card from now on so that I can always have one on hand. The card base is wild rose. There is even dazzling diamond glitter on it. Thanks for looking in on me today. I hope I can post more soon.
Cheryl

Bunch of Voila

2008-01-04T14:19:00.001-05:00

I had 3 men who are having birthdays in Jan so needed to make some cards. I thought I would make the same card and practice my gamsol technique. The only difference is the colors I used. This set, Voila, is such a versatile set. I just love it. I would like to make some coasters with this chef on them. I hope the recipients like this card.

Now, just to show how versatile this stamp set is, I used the hearts from Truckloads of love to put on the platter. Then I used love you and the xx's and oo's from Fancy Flexible Phrases. The paper is from last year. This time I didn't feel like getting my prismacolor pencils out and used my old crayola pencils that sit on my desk. Well, what a huge difference. I could hardly get the color to move on the image. Maybe I should just get rid of the crayolas. I put some stickles on the hearts and also on the chef's buttons. It is cute and easy. Not sure who will get this one.

Thanks for checking in on me today. Hope to have more to post this weekend. I have a card to make for a good friend's birthday and I have a new technique I would like to try from Erika Martin.

Cheryl

Star Angel

2008-01-04T14:14:00.000-05:00

I made this card with the starry angel from Lockhart stamps. I love her. I used some spica glitter pens on her but you really can't see the sparkle in this photo. The background paper is some from Basic Grey. The star brads I got from Sara Pashal from Splitcoast Wish RAK (thank you Sara). This card was sent to my sister to let her know that she is in my heart and that angels are near to her.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl

Our dog, Abby

2008-01-01T19:35:00.000-05:00

This is our westie, Abby. She has been having problems with a corneal ulcer since Thanksgiving and finally after all sorts of eye drops, our vet sent her to an opthamologist vet yesterday. She was diagnosed with an indolent corneal ulcer and had to have a grid keratotomy where she scratched the surface of the cornea in order to promote healing by altering the tissue under the diseased outer surface of the cornea. Now the new, healthy cells can (we hope) attach to the surface and heal. She goes back in 2 weeks to be rechecked. This vet clinic gives you an cost of service before treatment is provided so you can decide if you want to go through with it. This was $500 and I hope she doesn't need it again. How do you have a choice with your pet who is a family member? Abby is 13 and a half and we would do anything to keep her and make her healthy. This proceedure has an 85% success rate the first time, so please keep your fingers crossed for Abby. She seems to be adjusting well to the e-collar. She eats and even is jumping onto the couch. We love our dogs.
So, after spending all of this, it looks like my stamping budget is pretty nil for a while. Maybe now I can use some of my stash. I am such a hoarder.
Thanks for checking in.

Creating on New Years Day

2008-01-01T16:53:00.000-05:00

First of all--Happy New Year to all of you and my hope is that 2008 will be our best year ever!!
I made this thank you card because I found one in the Splitcoast gallery done by Vonda Thomas and I fell in love with it. So my goal today was to recreate this card the best I could. I used doodle this and fabulous flowers for the stamps. I embossed in gold and cut out and layered. I used stickles on the top for bling as I can't find my envelope of all my bling stuff. The thank you is from a blog candy from Green Grass stamps. I won the thank you set and I love it. I punched it with my circle punch. I used some shiny gold paper and the cuttlebug embossing folder. I still need to learn to emboss better, but I think it is pretty. The cardstock is bravo burgundy. I layered some gold and some white ribbon around it too.

I loved these treat boxes that folks were making for Christmas so I thought I would try one. I ended up folding the corners in wrong, but didn't realize it til I had adhered all of the triangles and I was not going to start over. It still turned out cute. I will give this to the nurse at my chiropractors office tomorrow when I go in for my apt. I will make another of these and do it correctly as it is darling.

And last, I thought the inside of the CD card that I made was too plain so I stamped many of the Green Grass thank you stamps on it. They are rubber but are mounted on the foam stuff and I stuck a bunch on an acrylic block and stamped away. I love these. You can never have too many thank you stamps.

I hope you have had a wonderful New Years Day and that the rest of the year will be as great. Thanks for checking in. I hope to do some new techniques this year and improve my stamping.

PS--Helen, thanks for the link for the photo tips

PSS--Thank you everyone for your comments. I appreciate them so much.

Cheryl

Card from a CD

2007-12-30T11:56:00.000-05:00

I don't have these photos in the correct order and I don't know how to change them. I also need to work on my photo taking abilities. The pictures don't make these cards look as nice as they really are. Anyhow, these are from a tutorial from Stampin' Mama (Love her!!!) for a CD card. I made 2 of them from the Apple Cider Paper, River Rock, Chocolate Chip, and Old Olive Cardstock. The stamps used are from various sets. I was experimenting. I needed a couple thank you cards. This one is for my good friend, Cindy, to thank her for the beautiful silver bell necklace she gave me for Christmas. She had a rough holiday because her mother passed away right before the holiday so it was very sad for her. We both have bells and they connected us while she was 500 miles away with her family for the funeral.

This is the inside of the card I will send to my sister. It says Thank you and then "From the bottom of my heart". The thank you is from All Holidays and the heart is from A Light Heart. I stamped in really rust.

This is what the card looks like open. I used a piece of old olive ribbon to attach the 2 cds.

And this is the photo that should be first as it is the front of the card. I used a flower from one of the Apple Cider Cardstock pieces. After I finished I decided to swipe around the edges with close to cocoa ink and add a few stickles to the front to add some bling.

Thanks for looking in on me today. I hope to do better in 2008, both with more frequent blogging and with better photos. (not sure how I will do that, but will try). I also hope to keep trying new techniques. Thank you to Erika Martin for her tutorials.

Cheryl

Christmas goodies

2007-12-29T14:59:00.000-05:00

This is a horrible photo but now I don't know how to delete it to put another in, but anyhow, this is the Christmas card that I made to send to my Christmas card list. It was made with Peaceful Wishes and was very pretty (really!!!).

I made this gift card holder to send to my parents. It was from the tutorial program from Erika Martin (I love her tutorials--I can hardly wait for each Thurs. to roll around to find them in my in box). This card is very sparkly which doesn't show up. Darn.

I made a ton of these tile coasters. I made our daughter 6 sets to give to our grandson's teachers, etc and I made that many to give to neighbors and friends. What fun. They were very easy and look great. I put some in the origami box with ribbon bow that was from the tutorial on Splitcoast, but never took a photo of them.

Maria Bell did this tutorial for a hot chocolate holder that is a slider card. I didn't give that yet, but plan to next week when I see my Chirpractor. His sec'y is awesome and deserves way more than this, but she seems to like the little goodies I give her.

I saved the best for last--this card was from Dawn (Dawn's Stamping Thoughts) and is sparkly and cute. I love this and it is a one layer card. Thank you Dawn--It is awesome.

I will post more about Christmas soon. I trust everyone had a great holiday. Be back soon.

Cheryl

Merry Christmas

2007-11-29T13:45:00.000-05:00

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=9632792561

Click on this link and see our Christmas cheer!
Merry Christmas to you all.
Cheryl

Why I love North Carolina

2007-10-17T09:26:00.000-04:00

I wish these photos had shown the depth and the beauty of this area. We took our camper out to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure a few weeks ago and took the elevator to the top of Chimney Rock. Here is the view from the top looking out to Lake Lure. What an absolutely beautiful area. The Last of the Mohicans and Dirty Dancing (part of it) was filmed here as well as some other movies, which I don't know. I would love to go back out there to see the area when the leaves have changed colors. Bet it would be breathtaking.

Thanks for checking in.

Cheryl

Direct case from Paulaponders

2007-10-17T09:21:00.000-04:00

I needed a card for my stepfather's birthday and my masculine stamps are few and far between. I read Paulaponders blog every day and she had this beautiful card with instructions as to how to do a reverse mask and used Lovely as a Tree, which I happen to have and I had all the ink colors as well as the markers, so thought I would try it. This is how it turned out. It is very pretty in person and I think I did pretty good. I couldn't find a "Happy Birthday" stamp that would fit so used Gina K's Make a Wish and just used a marker to ink up the Happy Birthday on the stamp. This card is in my mailbox as I write this. I hope he likes it. I had fun making it.
Thanks for checking in.
Cheryl