Stamping With Dawn

Cards!

2012-02-13T00:33:00.001-05:00

Crafters -

Here are a few cards that I have made in the past week. (You can click on each picture and it will enlarge - makes it MUCH easier to see the details!)

These first two cards were designed by a friend of mine who is a Stampin'Up! demonstrator. She is also one of our church members who contributes to our Card Ministry. Aren't these just beautiful?

And these are my new favorite cards! The office supply store that I purchase my envelopes from - well, they are going out of business (the company is still in business, they are just doing internet only sales). This local company has been a wonderful place to go. They had about every color of paper, cardstock, envelope, and anything else you could ask for. Well, most of the A2 envelopes are now gone from their shelves, BUT they had these envelopes that are 3-5/8" x 5-1/8" (I think this is the RSVP size, but I'm not sure). ANYWAY - they had these envelopes on sale. As you know, I always make cards for the boy's teachers. What do you think? Think the teachers will like these? I may offer a class using this size card too. I'm still thinking about that one.

And last, but not least... I made a Valentine card for a customer. He works with my husband and his lovely wife seems to like my cards.. And since she came to my last card class, I'm going to have to wait to post her card on this blog. Check back AFTER Valentine's Day (well, maybe I'll post it that evening) to see her beautiful card. The idea isn't mine, it is a CASE from another demonstrator I was fortunate to meet via telephone last year in January, and in person at Convention in July.

Hope you enjoy the cards!

February Cards

2012-02-04T21:19:00.004-05:00

Crafters -

We had so much fun today! Here are the cards we made today. Hope you enjoy viewing them as much as we did making them!

First, the feminine cards. These could be made into birthday, thinking of you, thank you, or just left blank. VERY pretty - and all with a little bit of bling!

Same design.
Just changed colors, stamps and border punches.

Second, onto the Valentine card - which could be made into an Anniversary or Wedding card. Keep looking and look closely...

Yes, that is a little box on the bottom.
OH! Did you notice the embedded embossing?
BIG HIT! And so stinkin' easy!

Can you guess what's in the box for a Valentine?

Have you figured it out yet? :)

CHOCOLATE!
Who knew?
These little candies fit PERFECTLY into this box!

The left is the front of the card.
The right is the inside of the card.

Same design.
Just a different look when changing colors!

Now, onto the Christmas card design. What do you think?

And finally, a technique for the extra card!

This is what we started with - a 2" wide piece of printed paper. Guess what we did with it...

I've seen this called "Brick-by-Brick" or"Brick Wall".
Either way, LOVE the look!

We also had a raffle for a retired stamp set. Congratulations to Pam for winning! Hope you (and your family) enjoy the GREAT set!

If you missed today's class, hope you are able to attend the March 3rd class. The deadline to reserve your spot is Sunday, February 26th. Information is listed on the "Classes" link.

Card Class Deadline!

2012-01-30T00:52:00.002-05:00

Crafters -

The deadline to register (and pay) for the Saturday, February 4th card class is Tuesday, January 31st. There are still seats available for this class. Please remember to bring your Crafter's Kit - you will need it!

I have also listed the upcoming card classes for the remainder of 2012 on the classes link here.

Looking forward to seeing you on Saturday!

Card Classes are BACK!

2012-01-16T22:15:00.000-05:00

Crafters -

I've updated the "Classes" page with the next card class. I plan to have monthly card classes. If you attend six of the card classes in 2012, you get the seventh class FREE!

I will continue the Christmas card design at each of the card classes.

Hope to see you in February!

Ronald McDonald House Charities

2012-01-16T21:53:00.000-05:00

Crafters -

Yesterday Stephanie, Jennifer, and I went to Ronald McDonald House and made Valentines. We had SO MUCH FUN!

First, after we set up, we had several come over to make the Valentines. Here's one that a young woman made for her parents. How adorable is this? I know I would LOVE to receive this from a child!

Then, we had other parents stop over and one of the moms made a Valentine and she actually made it for her child's isolette. Unfortunately I didn't think to take a picture at the time... :( However, I did get to take a picture of some others.

Talk about talent, huh?


Every good and every perfect gift comes from above. - James 1:17 PERFECT sentiment for this heart!

Here are some of the hearts we made.
There was even a stack of them for the residents to color!

And here we are at the end of the day.

Wonderful friends to spend a wonderful day with.
Thanks Jennifer (red jacket on left) and Stephanie (gray sweater in center).
You two are the BEST - always sharing your gifts and talents!

If you have the chance to help out at Ronald McDonald House Charities, please consider it. You will be blessed tenfold!

New Year is Around the Corner...

2011-12-30T12:26:00.001-05:00

Well, crafters, the new year is almost here - Since I have turned 35 or so... (smile)... it seems that the days go by so much quicker.

Couple of changes for me, especially with the New Year right around the corner:
1) Stampin'Up!
2) New 'do!

Many of you already know this, but I decided to take a break from Stampin'Up! at the end of October. As of this month, there will also be a new Lead for the Columbus Ronald McDonald House Charities. I do not yet know who it will be, but this charity is very important. If you have helped out in previous months with me, I hope you will continue to offer your gifts and talents to the new person.

Originally I had planned to wait just the required six months and then sign up under someone different (those are Stampin'Up!'s rules, not mine). However, now that classes are done, and I have a LOT more time, I have found that although I miss the fellowship with my friends when we craft, I can still craft with my friends! Just without having to do the SU! business portion. Therefore, I have reached the decision not to rejoin Stampin'Up! in the near future. SO, although I will not be a demonstrator anytime soon, I will begin to offer card classes again (in a few months). Please know that there may be some contraband in the card classes. :)

Also, because I will no longer be demonstrating, I will be having a garage sale of sorts to sell some of my items that I do not use. If you were a customer, you are still always welcome to contact me with your questions, but if you need product - you will need a new demonstrator. I know several wonderful ladies who could assist you.

Please know that this decision was not reached without much prayer and thought. However, it is the best decision for me at this time. I hope you understand.

and my new hairdo (since I just donated 13 inches to Locks of Love!).

I have had several friends email me, along with one friend posting a comment on the blog, requesting that I put an new picture online with my new 'do. For those of you who actually style your hair, you may understand this. I've had long hair for so long, that most times I just washed, combed, and pulled it back! This stylin' thing is taking me a little bit of time.

Thank goodness I am in Florida visiting my parents right now. AFTER the first of the year - probably closer to the middle of the month, I will post an updated picture. This bein' a girl thing, really takes time. The boyz just don't know how lucky they are - we have hair, make-up, and all the other things. I'm not complaining mind you, I'M the lucky one who was able to carry our son, but I have a larger learning curve than most. Keep that in mind, please!

Ok, I'll be taking a few days break from posting. Hoping to show some more after the first of the year. ALTHOUGH, one of my mom's friends purchased an Ohio State post-it note holder, magnets, and notebook from me here in Florida. I brought them with me. I'll have to take a couple of pictures of those and post them before I give them to him.

If I do not talk with you beforehand, please know that there will be future postings - just after I return from Florida!

I have really enjoyed the friendships I have made while in Stampin'Up! I am confident those will continue...

Happy New Year!

13 Inches Donated to Locks of Love!

2011-12-27T17:37:00.005-05:00

I'd like to know how on EARTH I misspelled "Palm"? Really? And it had just started to rain when I was trying to take the picture in my car. Wanted to take it right away to the Post Office to mail. Of course, the rain has now turned to snow. YEAH! LOVE this weather! Perfect for crafting and staying inside!

Ok, so my Master's is done, I now have a professional short hairstyle, and I have donated my hair to Locks of Love. Onto CRAFTING!!!!

My actual graduation ceremony is about two weeks away and yes, I will be completing the walk. Really, I just want the Master's hood, but..

I have my wonderful craft room that is so neglected. THAT is one of my New Year's Resolutions. How about you? Of course, losing weight is also one of the resolutions (isn't it every year?), but I think the crafting one will be a LOT more fun! :)

I'm going to take a few days off to enjoy with family - hope you do too! Have a wonderful and Happy New Year!

Locks of Love

2011-12-26T21:09:00.007-05:00

Crafters -

We make a difference in many ways. Our cards can bring someone's spirit up, let them know we care about them, and just give a great deal of personal interaction. We enjoy looking at our scrapbooks and pictures and re-living the moments when those pictures and memories were made.

In our household, we enjoy reading and sharing our comic strips (the boy LOVES to read us different comics that he enjoys - and that he knows WE enjoy!). One of the comics is ZITS by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman. Here's one of their fabulous comics that ran in May 2003.

Here's the link to the article from King Features about that comic too.

To donate hair to Locks of Love, the minimum donation is 10 inches in length. So I will be seeing Chelley at Divine Angles to have my hair cut tomorrow!

Lock's of Love's Public Service Announcement video.

If you are interested in more information about Locks of Love, please go to their website at www.locksoflove.org .

We can each make a difference in so many ways... some big and some small.

A Wonderful Life quote...

Did you see...

2011-12-18T15:11:00.000-05:00

the Sherman's Lagoon comic strip today (Sunday, December 18, 2011)?

THAT is why I like to send handmade cards! I wonder if Jim Toomey knows someone who is a cardmaker or scrapbooker? Or maybe he just likes handmade cards? I think I may send him one of my Christmas cards. Of course, he's way bigger than my little cardmaking, so he might not receive it in time for Christmas - it'll have to go through his people first. But I think I'll send one anyway!

And, as many of you know, I just finished (as of yesterday, Saturday, December 17th!) my final class for my degree. YEAH!!!!! I am waiting on my final grade, so because Christmas is just one week away... guess what I have been doing yesterday and today?

If you look closely, you can see part of my Christmas card...

My goal is to get these finished today and out in the mail tomorrow - yeah, that's my goal! They will probably go out on Tuesday instead. LOVE that the Main Post office is on my way to work! :)

Enjoy the ritual of sending cards to those who make a difference in our lives. I still receive and I send a card to my first "real" boss. Linda is the wonderful lady who hired me when I was 18 years old. I actually interviewed with her the week before I graduated high school and I started my first full-time job the day after I graduated high school - all those many years ago.

Hope you have a wonderful Christmas season!

"A Date Which Will Live in Infamy..."

2011-12-07T17:05:00.009-05:00

December 7, 1941

A Date Which Will Live in Infamy

Here's an article showing Pearl Harbor today, 70 years later, and in December, 1941.

While I haven't yet had the honor of visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, I do know that I have many brave men (and women) to thank for the freedoms I have in this country.

So, to our wonderful friend Joe Keihn, who served on the Tennessee on that fateful day, and to all of the veterans who give so selflessly so we may enjoy these freedoms, we say "Thank you."

The wording is so very true...

Thank you to all veterans!
May God continue to bless you and keep you...

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ - Matthew 25:21 (NIV)

* The Official Site for the Pearl Harbor Memorial is located here.

Thank You Ronald McDonald House!

2011-11-29T18:22:00.001-05:00

Look what I received in the mail today!

and here's what they wrote:

Wasn't that so nice of them?!

I still think that we were the ones who should be saying "Thank You" to them. WE were the ones who were blessed on Sunday...

Ronald McDonald House Charities - Christmas Cards!

2011-11-28T00:51:00.001-05:00

Crafters -

Yes, I know it is nearing the end of November, but it is still "nice" weather here. Although it is becoming a little cooler...

On Sunday, Geneva, Steph, and I went to Ronald McDonald House and made Christmas cards.

Here are the designs we used:

If you recognize the pretty bows - they are made using Lee Conrey's Magic Bow Maker (LOVE that thing!). Geneva demonstrated it at the Dames meeting in October.

And, if you look at the cards and go "those look familiar, but..." you may be right! I patterned them after Sandi MacIver's Countdown to Christmas Project #5 card. In case you didn't know, Sandi and Lee are in the same Stampin' group! How fun is that?

Anyway, we had about 9 children who made about 20 cards, we also had 3 adults making cards as well. It was a kinda rainy, drizzly day - PERFECT for cardmaking!

If you have never made cards at Ronald McDonald House, you should. You will be blessed tenfold. We were so busy, I wasn't able to take pictures of all the cards that were made, but I was able to get a picture of a card that one little girl (and her mom, of course!) made. We all know we can purchase cards that are storemade - but which one would you prefer? I know THIS card has MY vote!

For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. - Luke 12:48b

Hope you are able to join us for the next time we are at Ronald McDonald House to make cards. We are scheduled for Sunday, January 15th. Let me know if YOU are available to attend!

BEAUTIFUL Handmade Birthday Cards and the Boy's Creation!

2011-11-20T11:11:00.003-05:00

Crafters -

Here are some of the birthday cards I received. These are the handmade ones. Aren't they just beautiful?

You can click on the picture to enlarge it. I will tell you that this picture just does not do them justice. They are SO MUCH PRETTIER in real life! You will notice the one on the bottom right doesn't really look handmade. It's from Stampin'Up! and it is made using My Digital Studio. THEN, those beautiful jewels were added.

This photo just doesn't show the shimmer, sparkle, and shine!
They are BEAUTIFUL!

These wonderful people were so kind to send me these handmade cards - and you notice, the WOW! style (when you open the envelope or card, you can't help but just say "WOW!").

So thank you to these wonderful crafters for their gifts and talents by sending their beautiful handmade creations to me.

Please know - I appreciate ALL of the wonderful cards that I received for my birthday (and there were some BEAUTIFUL storebought cards - I will SO be CASE*-ing those!), but since I do try to stay with crafting and stamping on this blog, I thought it was appropriate to show the handmade cards.

Thank you to ALL of my wonderful friends and family who sent me my birthday cards. They were removed from the mantle yesterday so that we could place the boy's creation on the mantle:

The boy put it together himself!
I even let him use my Stampin'Up! hammer from my (retired) kit.
It was the PERFECT size for him!

We went to the Lowe's store to do this, but there were so few (only one) other children near his age that we decided to bring it home and assemble it. So after he put it together, we colored it yesterday afternoon using shimmery gel pens. (Yes, "we" colored it - he picked out the colors and started, then I finished it.) We used a bit much - it's still "damp". Thanks to Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Workshop for offering this. It was so much fun!

Enjoy this Thanksgiving Week!

*CASE - Copy And Share Everything

My Birthday Butterfly...

2011-11-15T07:24:00.002-05:00

Today is my birthday, and I think our son was more excited about that than I am! Maybe something with the number of my birthday, but... (HUGE smile!).

So, yesterday the boy had Art class at school and came home with ink all over his hands! You know what that looks like! When I asked him about it, he said that he was making me something in Art for my birthday but he wouldn't give it to me until tomorrow (now today). Oh the anticipation!

Guess what I received this morning, beautifully decorated?

As that wonderful person Anonymous has stated "If nothing ever changed, there'd be no butterflies." So although I don't like getting older, I do like the experiences I'm able to enjoy. Especially through the eyes of my child.

And I think he may like paper crafting as much as his dear old mom! And, his words not mine - "because butterflies are symmetrical," he signed BOTH wings on the back (name and year) - how wonderful was that?

Off to enjoy my FREE Birthday coffee from my FAVORITE coffee place in the whole wide world (I do substitutions, but...) STARBUCKS! How nice was that of them to send me a postcard for a free coffee? If YOU haven't signed up with them for YOUR Birthday free drink, you should. I just LOVE their stuff. My retirement job... someday... :)

And as my friend always says "Make it a GREAT day!" Enjoy!

Taking a little break...

2011-11-11T00:06:00.001-05:00

Crafters -

Thanks so much for everyone who came to the Crafts Fair on Saturday. I had so much fun! It was nice seeing faces I only see once a year, at the Crafts Fair, too! :)

In all seriousness, I am now officially in my final MBA class. There is a paper, a project, and lots of work each week in this final class. That's ok with me - I don't have to write a thesis! :)

With that in mind, I will be off-line for a few weeks. I'm not saying that I won't be posting. I am saying that it will be hit or miss. Instead of you checking my blog and being disappointed because I haven't posted anything, you may wish to sign up for the "follow by email" on the right side of this posting. Then you will receive an email WITH the new posting sent right to your inbox!

Thank you so much for understanding. This has been a long year and a half, but as my very first real boss told me when I was just 18 years old "an education is something that can never be taken away from you." Linda is a very smart woman. Glad I listed to her - all those years ago (let's see, I'm 40-something, oh wait, I mean 35 with how many years experience, oh wait, carry the one.... well, you get the idea).

I will be at Ronald McDonald House on Sunday, November 27th and am hoping to have a posting about that!

Look forward to chatting with you soon!

Cypress Crafts Fair on SATURDAY!

2011-11-03T22:16:00.000-04:00

Where does the time go? I do this every year, and you'd think I'd realize it is nearing the first Saturday of November, but... Oh well.

Here are a few of the items that I have been finalizing and will have for sale on Saturday, November 5th at the Cypress Christian School Craft Bazaar. It is open from 9a-3p and admission is $2.00.

Complete with matching pen!

Those of you who know me - KNOW that I'm not a purse-type of gal.
But these are just too stinkin' cute! I really like the polka dots too!
PERFECT size for a little treat or a gift card, and an easy package to give a gift!

These file folder notebooks are just the best!
You may not be able to see in these pictures, but these also come with a matching pen!

Cypress Christian School is located at 377 Alton Darby Creek Road in Galloway. To get there, you will take 270 to 70 west, exit at 91A and turn left on Hilliard Rome Road. Cross over the bridge and take the first right (Feder Road). At the intersection of Feder and Alton Darby Creek you will turn left. The church will be on the right side of the railroad tracks.

I will also have some of my retired items for sale (stamp sets, papers, ribbons, etc.).

Hope to see you there!

Louisville Regional!

2011-10-29T10:30:00.014-04:00

WOW!

What a GREAT time! Yesterday, several of us drove to Louisville, Kentucky for the Stampin'Up! Regional (Thanks so much to Steph for driving the ENTIRE time - YOU ROCK!).

Upon arrival, we saw the fabulous Bonnie Thurber. She was kind enough to pose for a picture.

Stampin'Up! changed the format for this Regional slightly. Some for the better and some I didn't enjoy as well (in my humble opinion). I LOVED how they have us all sitting at the lined-up tables with EVERYONE facing the front stage. That was SO NICE! It allowed everyone to see the main stage without having to turn around.

After the initial introduction, everyone received crafting time to go to the TWO designated areas to complete the two Make-and-Takes. I wasn't sure about this, at first, then I decided that I really liked this change as well. There were a total of six of us that sat together; we broke into sets of two. Just like a restaurant - it is easier to get seats of two together, rather than a group of six to a table! (smile)

We were able to view all the displays and see the WOW demonstrations! This was the part I didn't enjoy as well. The WOW! demonstrations were throughout the area and they had those fabulous mirrors above the demonstrators so we could see, however - everyone wanted to see! I can say that I cannot blame them, but because of this set-up, you had to stand back and watch SEVERAL of the same demonstration before you could actually get to the front to see the samples and the demonstration displays. I'm not sure how they could do this better, but it did allow us to see the four different WOW! demonstrations up close and personal... eventually.

We then returned to our seats and, after the blessing, received our box lunches - YUMMY!

After lunch, SU! began the demonstrations on stage. The wonderfully talented (and I'm not just saying that because I won!) Carrie Cudney talked about us being savvy shoppers. Many of you have heard me say, because I heard it at Convention a few years ago, that we should purchase stamp sets that we can make five things out of - five techniques, five designs, five different things! That way, you receive the bigger bang for your buck (or the most for your money). And, Carrie discussed that exact same concept and showed us one such stamp set that could do this. She also showed us how to combine the new Dazzling Details with reinkers, to give wonderful color sparkles to our designs.

A little bit of Dazzling Details with a drop or two of colored reinkers

Here is the Dazzling Details with a blue reinker for the background on the scallop - BEAUTIFUL!

My new stamp set!

And the wonderful Carrie Cudney posing for a picture with me -
since I won the Prize Patrol and the stamp set that demonstrated!

Then on to the technologically savvy Holly Linford. She talked about punches and punch art. Now, I have to be honest here... I have several (ok, most) of the punches, but I usually use them for just, well, punch outs! I have altered a few of them, but Holly really took it to the next level. She showed us several cards on the stage, and one of them happened to showcase the local talent of Connie Babbert. I might add... I have this particular card. Connie gave me one of hers at Convention. Isn't this just the cutest?

Holly went on to talk about the Card Keeper that is sold. And she decided to announce that EVERYONE would receive one! Here's the box that it comes in, along with a sample from the screen.

And then Holly, Carrie, and Bonnie went on stage. This picture just does not do these ladies justice - they are all so beautiful. Wish I could have gotten a picture of them all smiling to the camera! Don't they look like they are having fun?

They discussed a Creative Journal Challenge for them and several others, at first. Then a challenge was issued to each of us as Regional attendees. Make your own! So, they gave us the pieces and parts to make our own! Carrie is helping to distributed the journals - I think she looks as happy passing out the prizes as WE are about receiving them. She's at the end of our row at this time.

I won't begin working on mine until after I finally finish my Master's Degree - so it will be AFTER January. I'll show pictures of mine at that time.

Oh, I forgot to tell you! When I won my stamp set, well, you are supposed stand up and wave your arms around (so they can see you clearly!) and are supposed to be just so excited (they actually require us to do that - NOT! - but we do it anyway because we really are so excited!) to receive fun, free stuff! Well, and I knew this, but... my wedding set is a little loose on my hand. When I stood up and waved my arms around, well, my wedding set FLEW off my hand! I heard it land somewhere but didn't see where it landed. Yeah, imagine the sinking feeling... This wonderful lady in the next row, almost to the right end of the row (I was nearer to the left end of our row), well, she found it! I must have REALLY been swinging my arms around! So as Holly is delivering my new stamp set, I'm reaching for my wedding set from this wonderful woman. I know Holly was looking at me really weird, and I wish I could have gotten a picture of her delivering my new stamp set for me, but I think my wedding set was just a bit more important. Thank you to this wonderful woman for returning my wedding set to me! I didn't get her name, but she was kind enough to pose for a picture with me. You will notice my set is not on my left hand in this picture. I've placed it on my RIGHT hand (those fingers are fatter - smile - and I'm really ok with that - NOW!). I'm NOT losing this again!

So, here we are at the end of the day. I've included a picture of two local demonstrators who sat with us. Barb is also one of our crafters at church with our card ministry - she makes the prettiest card designs! Talk about being blessed to know so many wonderful (and talented) crafters!

OH - and one last thing, I promise! Donna Griffith, during her demonstration, mentioned that we need to do some "framping". I had no idea what this was! Do you? It is a combination of the words "friends" and "stamping"! So - go do some FRAMPING! I like that new (to me) word. Friends and stamping. Throw in some chocolate and maybe a little coffee and this is bliss!

Hope you have enjoyed these pictures and the update from the Louisville Regional on Friday, October 28, 2011.

FREE Downloads (after completing a quick survey)

2011-10-26T16:21:00.003-04:00

Who doesn't LOVE FREE?!?!?!

Mark your calendar with Stampin' Up!'s four-day online celebration of Digital Scrapbooking Day!

According to the Stampin'Up! DEMONSTRATOR side of the website (only demonstrators can see this part), customers can access the free downloads after completing a quick survey. These are brand-new, never seen before FREE downloads!

Make sure you go to MyDigitalStudio.net on November 4th-7th!

Cards to the Winner of the Dames Challenge

2011-10-23T13:00:00.000-04:00

Crafters -

As you read yesterday, Nina won both challenges. Here are the two sets of cards she received as her "prizes."

Hope she enjoys them!

Two prizes.
One set is Garden Green, One set is Cherry Cobbler.
Both use Frostwood Lodge DSP, Early Espresso, Whisper White and Glossy White papers.
Isn't the Christmas Lodge stamp set just the best?

Can you see the shimmer paint for the snow on the ground?
Used the crayon resist technique for the snow on the lodge itself.

Inside of the card.
Used Soft Suede and Garden Green markers.

Close up of the shimmer paint
and now you can see how the crayon resist "resisted" the sponging.

Congratulations Nina!

Dames meeting today!

2011-10-22T19:37:00.002-04:00

Crafters -

First, let me tell you about the wonderful ladies in my downline. We had our quarterly downline meeting today. These fabulous Dames showed up with coffee, pumpkin doughnuts from the Circleville Pumpkin Festival (thanks Steph!), and chocolate (never met a chocolate I didn't like - thanks Geneva!)!

We had two demonstrations today. I don't know about the rest of you, but I struggle with bow-tying. Am I alone in this? I'm a-thinkin' not! :)

Stephanie demonstrated how to make bows using brads, first. How come I never thought of this?

Then, Geneva demonstrated bows using Lee Conrey's Magic Bow Maker. Let me assure you, we have a group order for Ms. Conrey! We literally went "Wow..." after seeing Geneva demonstrate it for us!

Then we had our Challenge winner (see this post for our Dames Challenge), Nina. She won on BOTH the closest to $50, along with the most DIFFERENT cards/projects using her items. Way to go Nina! (If you are a new stamper, see how easy it is to make cards?)

Finally, we completed our Shoebox Swaps. I think that is the favorite thing of all. Now, I may be a little-teeny-tiny-bit partial, but I think these are just beautiful cards. I may not be a grammar geek, but I know pretty cards when I see them! Hope you enjoy these lovely ladies' talents!

Nina's card

Steph's card is on the left.
I don't know if mine will be a Valentine's Day card, Anniversary card, or wedding card,
so I left mine blank.

I altered Steph's original design. Here's a close-up of mine.

Geneva's card

Tina's design. Can you tell what the clouds are?
That's right - The top of the cupcake punch!

Dawn's card

Close up of the bird.
Don't you just LOVE how the Crystal Effects brings makes this card really pop?

Dames - thanks so much for spending your Saturday morning with me and thanks for the coffee, doughnuts, and wonderful chocolates. Business relationships may change, but friendships remain strong. I'm so thankful that I have these wonderful friends in my life. Thank you Dames!

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:

If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)

2011-10-17T00:35:00.000-04:00

Saturday was the LAST day for the My Digital Studio Contest with Stampin'Up!

Can't wait to find out the winners names!

Today is the LAST Day!

2011-10-15T04:24:00.000-04:00

Today is the LAST day for the My Digital Studio Contest with Stampin'Up!

The link is on the left and you can get more information from MyDigitalStudio.net.

Good luck!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

2011-10-13T20:04:00.000-04:00

This was posted today on the demonstrator side of the Stampin'Up! website. Thank you for showing how much you care about others (while making beautiful cards too!):

You Did It! Results of the Strength & Hope Campaign
October 13, 2011

The Strength & Hope Campaign, benefiting The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF), came to an end on August 31. We thank you and your customers for your amazing support of this global philanthropic campaign. Each of you did your part to make a difference, and by doing so, we raised nearly $60,000, which will go toward helping BCRF "achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer in our lifetime" (BCRF Mission Statement).

Again, thank you for living Stampin' Up!'s Statement of the Heart and doing your part to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Stampin'Up! Special for October

2011-10-09T23:05:00.003-04:00

Check out this video with Shelli Gardner, the Co-founder and CEO of Stampin'Up!

Card Ministry Cards

2011-10-07T23:37:00.001-04:00

Here are the cards I made this evening at our Card Ministry. I wish I could say that the design was mine, however one of the other wonderful people (a husband-and-wife team actually) designed the card.

Most of the cards were made into Thanksgiving cards. And, because these wonderful people made so many cards, several other cards were made into general "Thinking of You" cards.

Flores Suaves and Sincere Salutations


Baroque Motifs

All stamps provided by card designers

All cards are sponged using Bravo Burgundy, Cajun Craze, and More Mustard. Other colors used were Always Artichoke, Night of Navy, and Elegant Eggplant. Can you tell my favorite colors come from the Regals Collection?

Hope you enjoy these cards as much as I enjoyed making them!

Free Big Shot Offer from Stampin'Up!

2011-10-05T05:16:00.004-04:00

From the Stampin'Up! website:

Free Big Shot Offer

An offer to DIE for!

If you've been looking for an opportunity to do what you love, while getting a 20 discount on your favorite products, now is the perfect time! During October, you'll get a FREE Big Shot when you join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator.*

Use the Big Shot die-cutting machine and Stampin' Up!'s exclusive dies** to create uniquely beautiful projects in a flash.

In addition, the new-demonstrator Starter Kit--a steal at just $175--contains over $345 worth of stamp sets, card stock, ink, accessories, and business supplies-everything you need to start your new business.

There are so many benefits of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, including

A 20 percent product discount!
A free monthly issue of Stampin' Up!'s demonstrator-only magazine, Stampin' Success!
Sneak peeks at brand-new products!
Invitations to exclusive Stampin' Up! events!
Regular get-togethers to stamp!
Free access to an online community of 30,000+ crafters/stampers and creative artists, as well as 160,000+ project samples!
Plus, access to an exclusive video and training for your new Big Shot!

Don't miss this BIG deal! Contact me today to learn how you can take advantage of this great opportunity and get your FREE Big Shot!

* Or up to $100 in FREE Stampin' Up! products
** Big Shot dies sold separately

BBBRRRRrrrrr......

2011-09-30T06:15:00.001-04:00

It's cold outside!

PERFECT weather for crafting. I have been making items for my Crafts Fair on Saturday, November 5th (along with doing the BOY's homework - not mine this time!).

This kind of weather makes me just want a nice cup of hot cocoa (or my favorite peppermint mocha from an unnamed source!). Well, that and my adhesive, papers, stamps, punches, and everything that goes along with them!

Maybe I'll try out my Peakaboo Frames die - won't that make just the CUTEST hidden message cards? Maybe with the Dinoroar stamp set with "I dig dinosaurs" on the outside pocket and "I dig you" on the inside/hidden message. Markers are just WONDERFUL when I want to divide the saying. Have to play around with that for a little bit, I think...

As you can tell, I haven't yet canceled my Demonstrator Website. SO, it will remain in effect until about October 10th.

Today's Ronald McDonald House Card Making...

2011-09-25T20:18:00.001-04:00

was so much fun!

Jennifer (print shirt), Dawn (blue shirt), and Stephanie (red shirt).
I think we all know the guy in the yellow and red!

We had SEVERAL families stop over and either pick up some cards to use, stamp some cards, take a bookmark, or just generally visit.

One of the moms, her baby is now six months old and hasn't been home yet; she's hoping that will occur soon! One of the other moms - her baby is 28 days old and the mom has been making different bows and various headbands for her daughter - she even said that her husband makes prettier ones that she does! (I don't believe that for a minute - the cards she made were BEAUTIFUL!). Both of them shared their cell phone pictures of their beautiful daughters with us.

Jennifer joined us for the second time, and one of my downline Stephanie was able to come today (after completing a 5K in the morning!). Thank you - both of you - for sharing your Sunday afternoon with me and the families at Ronald McDonald House for this worthwhile cause.

Today, I was a little smarter. I actually made several cards ahead of time; they just needed colored and stamped (if they wanted a sentiment on the card). Made it SO much easier! Jennifer was making and assembling cards left and right for the residents and Stephanie was helping the residents and their families with how to operating the crop-a-dile, paper piercer, and explaining brads vs. eyelets. I think a good time was had by all!

We left a box of cards, about 50 or so, along with some of those corner bookmarks, with the staff at the front desk. We also let the residents know that those cards would be up there. It's the little things that can make a difference. One of the ladies who stopped said something about "oh yes, I would like some cards, but I don't have time to make them now." So we handed her several. She wanted 3 stamped with "thank you" - because of the wonderful staff at Children's, along with family and friends who have been so helpful. The other blank cards were for her to fill out as she needed.

Crafters - if you ever have the chance to help out at Ronald McDonald House - please consider doing so. When they gave me the tour of the facilities, it really gave me reason to pause. They showed me the room where they have some of the food ready to help out with the families. On this one shelf, they had peanut butter and a variety of cereals. Now, don't get me wrong - I like both of those, just not together. However, it was explained to me that many times, these families come very quickly, without a chance to prepare. By providing the family with a box of cereal and a jar of peanut butter, the family only needs to pick up milk and bread and they can have several meals. Very humbling and things like this continue to show me how truly blessed I am - in so many ways...

Whew!

2011-09-24T03:00:00.006-04:00

Did you hear that sigh of relief from our home?

I just finished the last assignment in my accounting class. That makes nine classes complete with one remaining class. WHEW!

Now onto prepping for the cardmaking at Ronald McDonald House on Sunday (and yes, it is 2:30 in the morning - smile). I have found it is so much easier to take quizzes and exams in the wee-hours of the morning than when the small child is awake. I'd much rather play and spend time with him instead of concentrating on exactly what the steps are for Activity-Based Costing. We made Origami Yodas earlier tonight - let me assure you, that was WAY more fun!

So I hope to see you on Sunday at RMHC! All supplies will be provided, but if you could bring your adhesive and scissors, it would be much appreciated.

And last, I leave you with few thoughts (all are from the NIV):

1) There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens - Ecclesiastes 3:1

2) I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. - Ecclesiastes 3:12

3) So I saw that there is nothing better for a person than to enjoy their work, because that is their lot. For who can bring them to see what will happen after them? - Ecclesiastes 3:22

I really like Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 - check it out!

But the reason I list those three specific verses is because I feel that they really fit with Stampin'Up!'s Statement of the Heart:

To love what we do and share what we love,

as we help others enjoy creativity and worthwhile accomplishments . . .

in this we make a difference.

Sometimes "things" (and even people) get in the way, zap our joy, and just generally get the better of us. None of us are perfect. And that impacts how we do the things we enjoy (like papercrafting!). Why do we allow that to happen? As I tell my downline, this (our crafting passion) is supposed to be fun! And although we are supposed to turn the other cheek, sometimes branches have to be cut; and those branches that remain, sometimes have to be pruned.

I think I'll grab my pruning shears and go to work... look for a few changes in the next few months...

Way to Go Stampin'Up!

2011-09-22T22:18:00.000-04:00

We all know that Stampin'Up! has just the best stamps (and papers, and inks, and ribbons, and brads, and buttons, and don't you just LOVE the SU! Exclusive dies they offer in conjunction with Sizzix? But I digress...)

Anyway, don't you just LOVE SU! stamp sets? I know I do! It's so nice that the sets coordinate and when I make a set of cards, I can use a wonderful set like Sincere Salutations and have the font match.

So, did you see?

Stampin'Up! has been named the winner for Rubber stamps, wood-and-clear-mount for the Creating Keepsakes Top 10 Tools for 2011!

Congratulations Stampin'Up!

Flags at the Ohio Statehouse

2011-09-12T06:09:00.003-04:00

Crafters -

As many were, we were at church yesterday. Still seems surreal that it was 10 years ago.

We (hubby, boy and myself) went to the Ohio Statehouse yesterday afternoon. Here are the pictures from my phone. They don't do the memorial justice.

Taken from the front steps


Taken from the front steps

All in rows

As we walked the outer perimeter of this, the boy said "Wow! That's a lot of (U.S.) Flags!" He heard the same sermon and the same numbers (one of my stampin' buddies - Stephanie - always quotes the numbers as well - she provides a FABULOUS History lesson!). But he couldn't comprehend the sheer number until he saw the flags that represented the people who died that day.

Can you see the cutout?

My camera phone doesn't do the pictures justice. Here's the professional view and the story that goes along with these:

The flags are schedule to be removed this morning and this is an annual event.

September 11, 2011

2011-09-11T06:57:00.008-04:00

As you know, today is September 11th. Today is an anniversary. Anniversaries take many different shapes and styles and are celebrated or remembered in different ways. My husband and I celebrate a wedding anniversary and (usually) do something special. I celebrate my official hire date at my real job. Our former pastor celebrates an anniversary - his cancer anniversary - with his family (they go to Florida to celebrate).

The musician, Alan Jackson, has a song called "Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)" - I couldn't find an official video of the song, but if you haven't heard it, it really does place things in perspective. Spend time with those you love. There are a number of memorials planned today throughout the country. Sometimes we forget what is really important...

**UPDATE: Although I couldn't locate an official video of his song, I did find an interview he did when he discussed this song.

I do have homework today (blech!), but we will also be celebrating with family. Our son was born shortly after September 11th. How many of us re-centered our lives after September 11th? I remember going to church the evening of September 11th to pray with friends and my church family. The churches were packed right after that day.

I did find a video with Lee Greenwood singing at the Grand Ole Opry. It is part of an official video from Opryland. This was a live performance. Hope you enjoy the words and sentiment behind them...

God Bless the USA!

Ronald McDonald House Charities

2011-09-08T22:17:00.001-04:00

We will be making cards at the Ronald McDonald House. You don't need to bring a thing - just yourself! If you would like to bring your adhesive and/or scissors, it would be much appreciated.

We will be meeting at the Columbus Ronald McDonald House on Sunday, September 25th from 12p-2p. I will be there around 11:45 with the supplies.

Hope you can make it!

Holiday Mini

2011-09-06T06:04:00.002-04:00

Have you received YOUR Holiday Mini Catalog yet? You know the one - the link is on the left if you don't have your own copy yet (updated button - thanks to Webmistress Michelle). Have you seen the new Simply Scored Scoring Tool? What about my FAVORITE new set - Christmas Lodge, oh wait - I mean Hand-Penned Holidays, or was it Always Thankful? I can have more than one favorite, right? (smile)

And have you seen the beautiful new papers? I'm really having trouble narrowing it down between Holly Berry Bouquet and Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Papers.

And the new Big Shot items? Well, let's see, I think my favorite is the new Peekaboo Frames, but I really like the Holiday Stocking as well. And then there's the new Snow Burst Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, and I really need to play more with the Festive Finishes Pick a Pattern Letterpress Plate (that one works best with the Watercolor Paper).

In case you can't tell, there is SO much in the new Holiday Mini Catalog. And although it is really nice to look at the individual items in my online store (click the "Shop Now" button on the top right), it is even BETTER to hold one of the Holiday Minis in YOUR hands and look at all the beautiful design ideas. Contact me to get your own copy today!

It's official - I'm going to the Louisville Regional!

2011-09-03T11:08:00.000-04:00

Well, it appears that two are also going in my downline - so it's official! I just registered for Friday, October 28th for the Regional!

Stephanie is going to apply to be a "Workshop WOW Presenter" - maybe we'll see her on the NEXT Stampin'Up! Workshop WOW DVD - available only to demonstrators!

I just have to remember where I parked my car when we go - maybe someone else will drive and then I won't have to remember where I parked my car? Hmmmm...... :)

YEAH!!! TWO Things from Stampin'Up!

2011-09-02T16:04:00.003-04:00

Two great announcements from Stampin'Up!

1) Summer Mini Catalog Write-in Set

The Open Sea stamp set from the 2011 Summer Mini Catalog will be available as a catalog write-in until July of 2012.That means you can still order it!

Wood Mount, item # 123030, $26.95
Clear Mount, item # 123032, $18.95

So for those of you who missed out on this GREAT stamp set, which makes FABULOUS men's cards, it is not too late!

2) My Digital Studio Contest

This contest is open to ALL - demonstrators AND customers - those who have access to My Digital Studio. You can win digital downloads from SU! - What A Deal! Click here for more information on the contest.

And, as always, remember to check on the MyDigitalStudio.net website. New downloads arrive EVERY Tuesday! It is also a GREAT place to get fabulous ideas!

Enjoy - and THANKS to Stampin'Up! for these GREAT offers!

Holiday Mini!

2011-09-01T16:58:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

The Holiday Mini Catalog is now up and running! Thanks to the Web Mistress Amy, you will notice a link on the left side that shows the Holiday Mini Catalog.

And because I'm a demonstrator, I have already placed my preorders, and they should be arriving next week. Cannot wait to play with the new goodies - especially my new Simply Scored Scoring Tool, along with a few other items... :)

Don't forget - you can always order online at my Demo Website. Enjoy looking through the Holiday Mini Catalog!

SU! Regional...

2011-08-31T04:42:00.002-04:00

There is one in Louisville, Kentucky on Friday, October 28th and also on Saturday, October 29th.

I'm really debating on attending...

WOW! Can you believe the shipping times?

2011-08-29T20:17:00.000-04:00

I have received notification today that the last of the online orders has shipped!

Most of the online orders were placed on Friday and Saturday, and I saw that they were in picking on Sunday. I even placed an order on Sunday and that one has already shipped...

Stampin'Up! shipping rocks! Hope you all receive your orders soon!

Thank You!

2011-08-28T05:20:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

Thank you for placing your orders by yesterday! I have placed the order for your FREE Strength & Hope stamp sets.

In checking the Stampin'Up! website, it looks like ALL of your orders are already in the "picking" phase. I would anticipate receiving my order right around Labor Day.

Because Labor Day is a BIG traveling holiday, we'll need to determine when the best time is to get together.

You will just LOVE your Strength & Hope set - and one of the best things - SU! donates money to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation with each order of that stamp set.

Thank you for making a difference!

**Remember - if you wish - you may make a card using this stamp set and send it to me electronically. I'll post it here on this blog. SU!'s Statement of the Heart begins with... "To SHARE what we LOVE..."

Dawn's Special from Sunday, August 21st, 2011, through Saturday, August 27th, 2011

2011-08-21T09:51:00.004-04:00

Crafters -

The Summer Mini Catalog expires at the end of this month. And on the very last page of the Summer Mini Catalog is a wonderful set called "Strength & Hope." I've used it on several cards since I purchased my set (March 26th workshop, April 23rd cards, May 21st cards) that I have posted on this blog.

And, as many of you know, my husband is participating in Pelotonia 11 this weekend. Their motto is "Ride Pelotonia. End Cancer." My husband lost his father to cancer and his mother is a breast cancer survivor. He is riding the full 180-miles this weekend and raised money to honor both of them.

Everyone has been impacted by cancer whether it is because of a friend, a family member, a co-worker, or yourself. Stampin'Up! is donating $2 from each Strength & Hope stamp set purchase to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

To that end, because the Strength & Hope stamp set goes away on August 31st (the last "cancer" set that SU! offered was just before I became a demonstrator - about 6 or 7 years ago), and they don't come back real soon... I want to get this stamp set into everyone's hands because it is a WONDERFUL stamp set.

Here is my special (and this is only good through me):

ONLINE ORDERS ONLY (My online store)
Merchandise must total $150 (you will earn Stampin'Rewards) - FYI - Don't order the Strength & Hope stamp set with your order. It will come to you from me in September!
Order must be placed by Saturday, August 27th, 2011.
After I receive notification of your online order from Stampin'Up!, I will place an order on Sunday and you will receive FREE the Strength & Hope wood mount or Strength & Hope clear mount (your choice) stamp set in September from me.
As soon as you place your order, send me an email to let me know whether you want wood or clear mount. You must send me the email by Saturday (August 27th) midnight so I can place the order on Sunday.
This special is not good towards the Strength & Hope Digital kit.

With the Buy 3, Get 1 Free Designer Series Papers Special currently offered by Stampin'Up!, along with this free Strength & Hope stamp set from me, you can earn several free items by placing your online order before Saturday. Don't forget to check out the Clearance Rack for any items there too!

When you receive your FREE stamp set from me, if you would like - please make a card and send me an electronic copy of it (.jpgs work very well). I will post it on this blog.

My Swap card from Dames meeting

2011-08-21T08:55:00.001-04:00

I finished these last weekend and still have to hand them out. Our theme for the Swap at the Dames meeting on July 30th was kids/school (something fun!).

Here's what mine looks like.

I've used the Dinoroar set (item #122535-wood, #122537-clear), the Bitty Box & envelope die (item #115967) and the Two Tags die (item #115954). SO EASY!

Notebooks!

2011-08-21T08:26:00.002-04:00

As many of you know, I worked on the boy's notebooks for his classmates yesterday. Lest you forget (smile), he will be 10 next month.

To make it easy on me, what with Accounting for me, Grandparents arriving in September (and yes, I'd like to see them too!), and just life in general... since I had the WHOLE HOUSE to myself yesterday - I worked on his notebooks! Got everything cut, sticky strip has been applied to most, and I will simply put these together when I have 5 minutes here and 5 minutes there. Assembly line works well for projects!

So here is a picture of one of the notebooks for his class. Please be aware that the Star Wars (R) is not sold by Stampin'Up! The colors that coordinate with this paper are Garden Green and Basic Black.

Each child's name will be die cut and placed on the bottom right of the notebook.

I also made a notebook for a friend. I've already delivered it to her and she says she likes it. Hope she's being honest. :) I've used the Paisley Prints DSP, Bashful Blue, and Marina Mist for the papers. I've also added a Paper Daisy flower (item #119243), a Bashful Blue Butterfly (from the Beautiful Wings SU! exclusive embosslit - item #118138), and a Light Blue Rhinestone Brad from the Circle Ice Brads (item #109111).

Same exact design - TOTALLY different look!
And you can see the top of my friend's name that is on the bottom of this notebook.

On both of these, because SU! no longer sells the hole punch I used to use on these, I used my Crop-A-Dile (item #108362) to punch the holes. It was SO MUCH EASIER than that silly little handpunch I used to use. It makes WAY LESS noise, but the grip is just a bit wider (and by "just" I mean wider - smile).

And last but not least, I'll be making another posting today. The Summer Mini Catalog expires at the end of this month. I'll be offering a one-time special today through Saturday, August 27th. Check back later today for more information!

October Schedule has been posted!

2011-08-16T07:13:00.002-04:00

Crafters -

Hope you can join me on October 8th or October 29th! I've posted two events in October!

Look forward to seeing you then!

Dames MDS Orientation Class TODAY!

2011-08-06T16:21:00.001-04:00

Because several of my downline do NOT have My Digital Studio (MDS) (I just received mine after the holidays), we decided to have a small orientation class today for my downline only. Four team members came and we played.

I patterned the class after the beginner and advanced MDS classes I received at Convention (thanks to the presenters Bonnie and Holly, and to all of the Stampin'Up! MDS gurus!).

Check out the beautiful design we did today:

Jeannette, Nina, Geneva, Tina and Dawn were involved in this! :)

This is similar to the one Holly Linford has us complete while at Convention. We used only the starter disks and the SAB MDS disk.

After we were done with this design, I asked Jeannette to save it. To move it here to my blog, all I had to do was open the project, click on "share project" and then "export to .jpg". I saved it and then added it to this blog entry. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!

I just LOVE the talent in my downline group! Thanks Dames for a fun morning!

Hope you enjoy this as well...

Using Markers on Your Stamps...

2011-08-06T06:12:00.003-04:00

As many of you know, the boy enjoys crafting as well.

He wanted to make a "Thank You" card for his friend and he really liked the new Dinoroar set (available in wood or clear mount stamps).

So, if you have ever wondered how to use your markers on your rubber stamps, here's how to do it!

Step 1
Choose your color and you'll move your hand back and forth while coloring
(hence the fast movement)

Step 2
You can use more than one color on each stamp.
Notice the tilt of the marker?
You want to "paint" with it.

Step 3
Firm placement on the paper

Completed images.
Notice that EACH image uses at least two colors.

And here is the final card!

Notice each image is cut out and pop-dotted!

I think I need to sign him up as a Stampin'Up! demonstrator when he turns 18!

Hope you enjoyed this little tutorial!

My cards from June's Technique Expo

2011-08-06T06:01:00.000-04:00

Wow! Was it really JUNE when my upline had her Technique Expo? Guess so...

Belatedly, here are the cards we made. Keep in mind, the techniques were what was demonstrated. Geneva, Donna, and I came back to my home and we bumped a couple of them up and assembled all here.

Let me know if YOU would like to have a class or workshop showcasing any of these great techniques!

Bleached Images

Butterfly Easel Close-up


Butterfly Easel


Crayon Resist


Faux Mother of Pearl

Glass Glitter

Masking

Mirror Image

Polished Stone

Rainbow Embossing

Split Negative

Cards from Dames meetings

2011-08-01T16:32:00.002-04:00

From the Saturday meeting:

Always Thankful - a new set in the Holiday Mini
Design CASED from the Holiday Mini

Cherish Friendship - and the spotlight technique
Design by Tina

Fabulous Florets
Design by Geneva

Flight of the Butterfly
Design by Sandie

Hand-Penned Holidays - a new set from the Holiday Mini
Design by Dawn

Kindness Matters
This card is a CASE from Convention
Mary Ellen showed how she did the window and I liked it a LOT
Hope you do too!

See how the outside vellum butterfly fits perfectly over the inside Cobbler butterfly?

As you open the card the butterflies become two instead of the one
Really a neat look!

Kindness Matters inside

Love and Sympathy - using the Faux Mother of Pearl technique
Design by Stephanie

My Friend
How easy would this be to make a set of cards as a gift?
Maybe using Sincere Salutations for a complete card set?
Wouldn't that be a nice gift set?
Design by Dawn

Perfectly Penned
The set I received at Convention
So I CASED the design that was done on stage...
Thanks Stampin'Up!

Tiny Teacup
Design by Nina

Hope you enjoy these cards as much as we did on Saturday!

Buy 3, Get 1 Free! from Stampin'Up!

2011-08-01T04:51:00.005-04:00

Crafters -

Stampin'Up! is offering a "Buy 3, Get 1 Free!" on their Designer Series Papers (DSPs).

Click here to learn more!

And this special only lasts until August 31st...

Ronald McDonald House Charities

2011-08-01T03:12:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

Yesterday, July 31st, we made cards with some of the residents at the Columbus Ronald McDonald House. Here's a picture of the wonderful ladies who came and shared not only their adhesive and scissors, but their gifts and talents as well.

Standing - Carri Miller and Dawn Stock; Seated - Jennifer McLaughlin, Geneva Collins, and Ronald McDonald :)

This picture was taken at the end of our two-hour card making.Talk about a willingness to serve - Geneva, Carri, and Jennifer were FABULOUS! At one point, Carri was teaching two families how to work on their cards, while at the same time Jennifer was helping one of the dads and showing him how she made a background using only one stamp, while Geneva was from one end of the table to the other! It was so humbling to watch these ladies serving others while sharing their gifts and talents.

There were two mom-dad teams who came downstairs and made cards. Whoever said this was a "female" craft? The men did a wonderful job on their cards - one of them even wanted a ribbon bow so he could attach it to the envelope of the card he made! Cards were made for the residents, the babies, and the nurses who take care of their children. We each have different gifts and talents, but I think we can all agree - those nurses are angels here on earth...

As many of you know, my goal is to schedule something every other month, so I am looking at September. If you would like to be at that next one - or a future one, please let me know. You will be blessed tenfold...

Convention 2011 SU! Video

2011-07-17T19:29:00.007-04:00

I cannot believe Stampin'Up! has this on YouTube already but WOW! am I so glad they do!

Enjoy!

We are home...

2011-07-17T19:12:00.003-04:00

Exhausted, tired, and glad to be home... :)

BUT we had a fabulous time!

I came down with a head cold on Friday so I haven't posted for a bit. I plan to download pictures tomorrow and (hopefully) post in the evening.

BUT to give you a heads up - Stephanie won Prize Patrol on Friday! That means Geneva won on Wednesday night, I won on Thursday, and Stephanie won on Friday! ALL THREE OF US WON PRIZE PATROL! :) That has just never happened for us! One year, there were something like seven or eight of us between upline, sideline, and friends - and only two or three won that year. This year - all three of us! Isn't Stampin'Up! just the greatest company?

AND they gave to EACH demonstrator the new Hostess set from the Holiday Mini (did I mention they gave EACH demonstrator an ENTIRE package of Hostess Minis?), along with an MDS (My Digital Studio) CD. Both are still packed but I have mounted the Hostess set. Cannot wait to play with those!

AND because the Make-and-Takes were just fabulous, albeit a bit labor intense, Geneva and hopefully Stephanie are coming over on Wednesday evening to finish those up. Geneva and I also took the "Every Last Detail" class on Friday evening, but we will be waiting for instructions to come via email from SU! before we finish those. Two hours is just not enough for the awesome projects! :) I'd like to get those done before the next Dames meeting on July 30th.

And last, but not least, although several people mentioned that they would like to attend the "All Boxed Up" card class on July 30th, so far no one has RSVP'd. SO, that class will be canceled for now. If there is an interest for that class in the future, I will offer it at that time.

Check back late Monday evening for more pictures!

If you are interested in becoming a demonstrator so you can attend these fun functions, contact me and we will talk!

My Downline's Post :)

2011-07-15T15:11:00.000-04:00

One of the wonderful ladies I am rooming with is my friend and co-worker and downline member, Stephanie Gibson. Last night we ordered pizza and had leftovers. But the pizza box was too big for the hotel room frig.

So what does any good crafter do? Well, one crafter (that would be me) used my scissors and sticky strip (although I did try the SNAIL adhesive first) and I altered the box to fit! And what do the other two crafters do (that would be Steph and Geneva)? They both take pictures! Click here to see the pictures on Stephanie's blog. It's near to the end of that post.

And yes, feel free to laugh! We did! :)

I'll be posting tonight too...

Today at Convention...

2011-07-15T00:58:00.001-04:00

Today was a GREAT day! Here's us as we began our day:

Three Dames - Dawn, Geneva, and Stephanie (from left to right)

Then onto classes. We learned LOTS and had LOTS of fun! During one of the classes, it was announced that there was going to be a new item in Memento Mall for a new product. Here's the item from Memento Mall:

New Memento Mall item - for a NEW product! It will be in the upcoming Holiday Mini!

And when I was leaving Memento Mall, I saw the display booth for the Ronald McDonald House. As many of you may know, I am now the Lead for the Columbus, Ohio Ronald McDonald House. At Stampin'Up, they have a Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Coordinator. I have spoken with her via telephone and email and she is always so nice. Well, guess who was at the booth? The lovely Lana! She's on the left in this picture.

Lana is just so nice!

Geneva and I even saw a fellow demonstrator from New Hampshire that we had met TWO YEARS ago! (See this post here). How many other fun conventions have YOU been to that you've met someone two years previous and can pick up the conversation like those two years had never lapsed? Stamping is such fun! It was so nice to see Shannon!

Well fast forward to General Session. They did another Prize Patrol like when Geneva won? Well, guess what? They chose the Red Swirls this time and guess who had red swirls? You go it - ME! So my wonderful friend and downline Stephanie took my picture!

Yeah Me! I won! Thanks so much Stampin'Up! Geneva is on the right enjoying my happiness too!

Here's a close up of the product AND an idea that Sara demonstrated on stage.

Close up of my winnings!

Fast and Easy Cards using the Simply Scrappin' Kit - just like the one I won from Prize Patrol!

And then Stampin'Up! announced that we ALL would receive the Simply Sent Kit, Great Day (it's late and I think that's what it is called. I'll confirm that tomorrow):

Wasn't this so nice of Stampin'Up! to give one of these to EACH demonstrator at Convention! YEAH Stampin'Up!

All in all - a wonderful day was had by all!

Then in the evening, we went to the Awards Ceremony and Geneva was able to meet Tami White:

Geneva on the left, Tami on the right

So with that I will bid you adieu. I'll post more tomorrow. Hope you are enjoying these updates from Convention as much as I am enjoying Convention.

More Pictures, People, and Geneva won Prize Patrol!

2011-07-13T23:15:00.001-04:00

Here is Gwen Edelman, the wonderful woman who transferred her Leadership ticket to me in January. The picture just doesn't do her justice. How come the really tall people are also so pretty and so nice? (Can you tell I'm a little jealous of tall people? Not really, we each are made perfectly in His way...)

Gwen is the beautiful lady on the left!

And, since one in my downline (Hi Nina!) really likes sunflowers, this picture is for her:

And the highlight of the evening was Prize Patrol - Geneva won! And the stamp set was on her Wish List. She just saved money! :)

Geneva won this stamp set and a spool of ribbon. Doesn't she look happy?

Hope to update more tomorrow evening. Remember we are on Mountain Time, which is two hours behind Eastern Time...

Convention, Memento Mall, and People I've Met!

2011-07-13T20:04:00.002-04:00

This will be a LONG post - grab your favorite cup of coffee, cocoa, soda, or your choice and enjoy!

First, we arrived yesterday. Stephanie's plane was delayed (of course), but Geneva and I got here right on time. The hotel courtesy van was there within 20 minutes or so and we were on our way.

You will NEVER guess who was on our shuttle - Amy Celona (Amy is the one referenced in this posting. Although you wouldn't recognize her on my blog, you should know that hers are some of the buttons on the side. She is just as nice in person as she is in the techno-world!

We ate dinner out and then came back to the room. We were SOOOO tired! I think we all fell asleep as soon as our heads hit those pillows! But before we did, Stephanie gave Geneva and me each a wonderful lanyard that she made for us. This one is mine. Isn't she so sweet? (Disregard the red/white swirly paper - that is my "color" for the Prize Patrol!)

Ooops - turn your head to the side to read this one!

This morning, we had our complimentary breakfast and headed to the Convention Center to begin our day. Today is "Check-in Day" which means no "real" crafting, but lots of swapping and we get to pick up our Convention bag, which includes this really nice binder for our catty too. What do you think?

How cool is this bag?

The embroidery is just beautiful!

A Convention-attendee Catalog Binder! YEAH!

The catalog was already three-hole punched and we just had to place the right pages with the right tabs!

Each section even has its own little page pocket!

Then, because I'm a Make-and-Take helper, I got to go into Memento Mall BEFORE everyone else. We went through the back way and I was just waiting to be led into the Green Room (smile), but we came to the Memento Mall. And while I was in the back of the room checking out the polo shirt and sweater, I received a Text from Stephanie. Guess who else got into Memento Mall early? Stephanie and Geneva! While they were standing in line, an SU! staff member approached them and they were given buttons that said "You Crew" and they were led the same way into Memento Mall that I was. We spent about an hour there!

Here are some of the things we purchased (and yes, I think we purchased one of everything!

Yes, those baskets at our feet are all OURS!

A picture of the SU! photographer taking OUR picture!

SU! Sweater

Sorry, it's sideways - polo shirt


Reusable shopping bag and SU! collapsible tote (to be used as a trash can at the craft tables!)

All kinds of stuff - notice the SU! lanyard in the center?

SU! umbrella - LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this!

Umbrella Display at Memento Mall

Catalog Stickers

Close-up of the Catalog stickers

My new lunch tote and reusable cup

Laptop Skin and Mouse Pad

The laptop skin and my NetBook. Think I need a new one - what do you think? Nah.... :)

Workshop Pocket Boards - left is the front, right is the back. Notice the clear pocket on the front of it? VERY handy for your wishlist while at a card class!

Then I headed to the actual Make-and-Take Helper session. Here is the lovely Andrea Withers (she's the young, pretty one on the left!) Doesn't she have the prettiest smile? Until today, I had only met her via email. She is just so nice!

And then we made the make-and-takes. One of the wonderful ladies at my table, gave me this hint and I thought I would share it with you. I just LOVE that SU! is now offering the clear-mount stamp sets - and I know you are too! But, have you ever noticed that sometimes it just doesn't cling so well in the case? Well, she gave us this hint - the skeleton of the stamp set - KEEP IT - do not throw it away! Remove the white protective layer and place the skeleton into the case. It clings really well. And it also helps you to know when you are missing a piece or two of the stamp set.

See how nicely the skeleton clings to the case?

Now she said that she doesn't even use the labels on the individual stamps. She places the label sticker sheet in the back pocket of the case. I prefer to use the stickers, so mine have them.

Well, the party started at 6 pm and it is now 6:03 pm. The internet has been up and down continuously throughout yesterday and today. I'm using the business center's computer now. I hope to post again tomorrow with some more really cool things. Hope you have enjoyed this lengthy post! :)

Convention...

2011-07-10T22:34:00.000-04:00

Well, in case you haven't noticed, I'm a bit behind in posting pictures of cards and techniques. Those will just have to wait until after Convention. Geneva, Stephanie, and I are headed to the airport this week for Convention!

We all had said we didn't think we had time to do swap cards and guess what all three of us are now doing? You got it! Hope to receive some FABULOUS cards in return... For those of you at the Christmas in July class on Saturday, I decided to do the Snowglobe card for my swaps. That one seemed to be popular with the group on Saturday - hope the people I'm swapping with like it just as much!

Ok, starting to pack and make sure I have everything ready to go.

Décor Elements

2011-07-07T23:47:00.001-04:00

Aren't friends just wonderful? I have this friend (Teresa Jane) who is one of my dearest friends. Don't get me wrong - if we ever had to live together, we'd kill each other - we're that different! BUT if either of us ever needed anything, it would be given without hesitation. I'm very blessed - I have many friends who are wonderful!

The other day I mentioned to Tracy that I was looking for a table about so high and so wide, and guess who had something like what I was looking for? She was going to have her parents sell it for her at their garage sale this weekend.

Well, the boy and I stopped over there tonight. And, after petting the attack puppy dog (all 5 pounds of him!), we were allowed into the home and were able to bring home this great table!

So I have now added my Décor Elements to my wall with this GREAT table to set it off! Doesn't it look nice?

Now I just have to add my Joshua 24:15 Décor Elements and that wall will be done. I mean, what's the rush, right? I've only had these things since MARCH!!! :)

The crafters coming Saturday will be the first ones to see it. Hope they enjoy it!

Two quotes that I like about friendship. Hope you enjoy them too!
Blessed is the man who has friends, but woe to him who needs them. - Czech Proverb

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. - John 15:13 (NIV)

FREE template from SU - sample!

2011-07-06T21:46:00.001-04:00

I have really GOT to stop playing with this My Digital Studio. You'd think I have a new toy (well, I kinda do, but...).

This is the template that is the FREE download from SU! and I've played around with it a little bit.

Easy-peasy, lemon-squeezy! Enjoy!

My Digital Studio Downloads!

2011-07-06T17:54:00.002-04:00

Check this out! Stampin'Up! has announced FOUR My Digital Studio (MDS) DVDs!

Here's the link: 2011/2012 MDS Catalog DVDs

If you are interested, go to my demo website and order any (or all!) of them! Just type in the item numbers and the download will come through!

AND SU! is offering a FREE download (I'm not sure how long this will last, so go NOW!) for the Fruit & Flowers Designer Greeting Card Template. (Click anywhere on this sentence to go directly to the link!)

Enjoy! and make sure you tell Stampin'Up! "THANK YOU!!!!" (You can thank them by calling them at 1-800-STAMPUP or via email to: ds@stampinup.com - either way works!

It's Official - I'm going to Convention!

2011-07-05T20:31:00.002-04:00

Like I really had a doubt, huh? :)

Look what came in the mail today:

This year's theme is "Grow"

Some of the classes are "Bloom Where You're Planted", "Planting Seeds", "Filling Your Garden", and "Stocking Your Garden Shed". There are a few others, I just really liked those titles!

I'm guessing Stephanie and Geneva received theirs today also (ok, I received an email from Geneva - she has hers!). It is a week from TODAY that we leave! I know our families will miss us just terribly... but they are happy that we have this hobby/business to enjoy (or cult, as my husband calls it - jokingly, of course!).

Remember to check my blog next week; I'm taking the netbook and plan on posting throughout the week. I just LOVE Convention and all the GREAT stuff I get to learn!

So, What Do You Think?

2011-07-02T23:10:00.002-04:00

Thanks to the wonderful computer geekesses (Amy, Michelle, and Heather) who post fabulous buttons for those of us who are technologically challenged, I have updated my blog buttons (along with some help from my geek husband!). I've also changed my background and hope to work on my banner in the next couple of weeks.

What do you think?

OH - and did you notice? I've added the "follow by email". All you need to do is to add your email address and when I update this blog (however frequently or infrequently) you will receive an email! You don't have to follow any other way!

Enjoy!

Card Classes updated

2011-07-02T19:28:00.000-04:00

Crafters -

I have updated the "Classes" page through August. I start my MBA classes again on August 15th, so the listed classes will be the last classes for a while...

Of course, you can always schedule a workshop and make cards that way too - and you can earn GREAT hostess benefits by hostessing the workshop!

NOTE: I am planning a workshop at my home during October or November (during my break from MBA classes). Let me know if you want invited to that one and I'll add you to the list!

2011-07-01T08:39:00.004-04:00

$99 Starter Kit

During July, you can join Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator for only $99! This limited time Starter Kit--valued at $185--comes with the following high-quality products:

Easy Events Clear-Mount Set*
Pennant Parade Wood-Mount Set*
Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad
Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad
Brights 8-1/2" x 11" Assorted Card Stock
Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper*
Chocolate Chip 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon*
Note Cards (20)
Clear-Mount Block C
Blender Pen (1)
SNAIL Adhesive
Business supplies

*Brand new to the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog!

Plus, if join in July, you get a FREE Christmas Keepsake project kit--a $40 value! This special kit is only available as part of this limited-time offer.

Join Stampin' Up! in July and receive brand-new products, including an exclusive project kit--all for just $99! Download the starter paperwork now!

When you go to my website, click Start Your Own Business and then "join now" on the left hand side. The password is "DAMES" (just the letters D-A-M-E-S) and you can sign up with me!

UPDATE - the $99 Starter Kit has to have the paperwork filled out. It looks like we can mail that in - get with me first!

Retired Items Sale

2011-06-30T19:10:00.000-04:00

Crafters -

The retired list (now called the Last Chance List) is ending today - the new catalog begins tomorrow. I knew that - I have been working over my first order for tomorrow (the 1st) for about 10 days now.

And yes, I have several items on the retired list. I just checked the boxes on the list so I could count up exactly how many of my favorites were going to retire. Do you think I pulled them out of the shelving unit yet? Nope! And the new catalog is effective tomorrow!

SO, if anyone is interested in any of my retired merchandise, I will have the items for sale on Saturday, July 9th ONLY. The crafters coming to the Christmas in July card class at 9am will get first dibs. After the card class is cleaned up, the retired items will be in the garage and you can come and look the items over from 3:00pm until 4:30pm.

**NOTE: Please do not call/email me and ask if I have a certain item and would I hold it for you. That's not fair to everyone else. All items will be first come, first served. Customers coming to the Christmas in July card class will get to look the retired items over during card class. I'm not going to do this as a true "garage sale".

Let me know if you have any questions!

Christmas in July Card Class

2011-06-25T21:51:00.000-04:00

WHEW!!!! Did you just hear that at your home too? I have just submitted my final assignment (a whole three hours early as it is due by midnight!) and I do not have any MBA classes for the next SIX WEEKS!!!! I will actually be able to see my family and CRAFT!

Today was the June card class and we had fun! We did sponging, heat embossing, faux mother-of-pearl, and crayon resist techniques on our cards. Now, I cannot speak for the ladies who were here, but I believe a good time was had by all.

SO - since I am on a natural high from crafting this morning, and finishing this Finance class (it was time consuming, but it was a really good class!), I'm posting this reminder about my Christmas in July card class scheduled for Saturday, July 9th. Can you believe it is two weeks from TODAY?! YIKES!

Ok, here's a little bit of a spoiler alert about that Christmas in July card class. We will be using Dazzling Diamonds glitter, Crystal Effects, colored pencils, heat embossing, and my Big Shot.

Reminder - your payment is your RSVP. You will need to bring everything in your Crafter's Kit - including scissors and adhesives. These are going to be some WOW! cards and you will want to put them together while here so you can show them off!

I am going to limit the class to 10. If we go over 10, I'll offer a second class time.

Reminder - your payment is your RSVP and it needs to be here by July 1st, 12:00 pm (noon), so I can order supplies for all.

Look forward to seeing you here on July 9th!

Convention!

2011-06-13T00:32:00.000-04:00

Crafters -

Couple of things...

1. Convention is just a month away! Here's a video Stampin'Up! has on YouTube - and let me assure you - the video does NOT do it justice! So much fun!

2. Remember that wonderful woman Gwen who transferred her Leadership ticket to me so that I could go in January? Here's that post. Anyway, guess who is also going to Convention? Guess who I will finally get to meet in person? You got it! The wonderful Gwen! She emailed me and let me know that she was going - isn't she just the sweetest thing? That's why she's an Honorary Dame!

The new catalog is just so wonderful! Cannot wait to see what good stuff we get to make at Convention - and I'm a make-and-take helper! YEAH!!!!!

I'll keep you posted on Convention! Perhaps YOU will sign up and come with us next year!

Annual Dames New Catty Meeting and June Card Class Reminder...

2011-06-11T10:07:00.005-04:00

Today was the Second Annual Dames New Catty Meeting. Nina, Geneva, Jeannette, Donna and I gathered at the local doughnut shop and enjoyed coffee, doughnuts and perusing the new catalog. Doesn't it look like we had fun? (doesn't it look like Donna and I are mother and daughter too?!) :)

Dawn (me - in RED), Donna (my mom is right behind me), Nina in the blue, Geneva in the white Stampin'Up! shirt she purchased at Convention last year (or the year before?), and Jeannette in green

Do you see what we each have in front of us? That's right - it's the NEW 2011-2012 Catalog - a GREAT benefit of being a demonstrator. Of course, because we cannot share with customers yet, we turned our catties upside down. Except for that rebel Geneva - she kept hers rightside up but she covered hers up with her hands and glasses case and all. :)

We had so much fun. Some of the gentlemen who were at the coffee shop last year were there again this year. I think they are regulars... I overheard them while we were carrying on, I mean discussing our upcoming card designs, about using the new stamps and the new accessories - well I overheard them saying "oh, isn't this pretty, I could make a card with this..." - all in GREAT fun. One of them even took the picture for us! Another one stopped at our table to tell us that he and his lovely wife scrapbook (he mentioned some contraband items that are used, so we won't discuss that) and that his wife does cards on the computer. It was so nice to hear him talk about how his wife can personalize their cards - sympathy, birthday and everything between! Said they haven't purchased a card in YEARS!

AND wanted to give a friendly reminder that today is the last day to receive the discount for the card class on June 25th. As long as your envelope is postmarked today, you can still receive the $5 discount on the class (it is normally $30). We will be concentrating on men's cards for the June class and also have a Christmas card design.

Hope everyone has a wonderful day - and don't forget to contact me for YOUR catalog. If you become a demonstrator with me, perhaps YOU will want to join us next year for the THIRD Annual Dames New Catty Meeting!

Last Chance List is here!

2011-06-01T06:29:00.001-04:00

Click here to go to the site!

Crafters -

The Last Chance List has now been announced.

Here's the link to the retiring items on my Demo Website so you can see what is retiring. If you wish to purchase any of the Accessories and the like (basically anything besides stamp sets), when they are gone - they are gone.

SU! has always continued to deliver the stamp sets through the end of the month - probably because they MAKE those! However, accessories like ribbon, punches, papers, etc., all come from other suppliers. So if you want ANY of those items, make sure you place your order. If you delay and when you go to place your order, I cannot help...

The link to my Demo Website is: http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/dawnstock/promotions.

Remember you can place your order directly on my Demo Website.

June 25th Card Class Information...

2011-05-28T03:18:00.000-04:00

has been updated. Click on the "Classes" tab to find out more!

Who Wants to Make Some Cards for Ronald McDonald House?

2011-05-26T16:55:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

Who wants to make some Father's Day, Graduation, Thinking of You, Birthday, or kids cards for Ronald McDonald House Charities? How about on Friday, June 3rd from 12pm until 2pm Eastern?

All supplies will be provided, but if you could bring your own adhesive, it would help...

This is not an official Stampin'Up! event; this is just an event to make cards. I'm not the lead for Columbus RMHC, so I cannot schedule events there for SU!

If you could let me know you are coming, I can plan for how many tables/chairs are needed. If you cannot let me know in advance, please come -- many hands make light work. :)

Please keep in mind, these families are there for a reason. There may be a bunch of them coming to make cards, or there may only be one. It depends on what fits into their schedules. Regardless, please lift them in prayer and hope to see you there.

You can contact me via email at:

StampingWithDawn@hotmail.com

Today's Card Class!

2011-05-21T18:53:00.003-04:00

Crafters -

I had several FABULOUS friends join me today to make cards. Here is what we made - hope you enjoy them as much as WE enjoyed making them!

Butterfly Easel - close up

Butterfly Easel - closed. THIS is how I'm going to place the card in the envelope. You just know the recipient is going to look at it and go "what is this?" and play with the butterfly - which should give them a very nice surprise when the easel butterfly falls into its proper place!

Butterfly Easel Card using several items from the Summer Mini - Fabulous Florets (item #123025), Melon Mambo Embossing Powder (item #123223), Flower Garden Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (item #123113 - remember the picture in the mini is backwards!), and I also used the Beautiful Butterflies BigZ Die - an SU! exclusive die!

Can you see the shimmer from the Shimmery White Paper? (Item #101910)

Using the Mi Dia Especial from the Spanish Supplement (Item #120427), along with the Level 3 Hostess Set Occasional Quotes. We sponged the clouds using Baja Breeze and an Extra Large 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch cutout!

Can you see the shimmer from the Shimmery White Paper? (Item #101910)

Using the Mi Dia Especial from the Spanish Supplement (Item #120427), along with the Level 3 Hostess Set Occasional Quotes, Teeny Tiny Wishes (Item #115370) and the Stamp-a-ma-jig (Item #101049). The Stamp-a-ma-jig is a MUST for getting the correct placement! We sponged the clouds using Baja Breeze and an Extra Large 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch cutout!

Strength & Hope - inside of card

Strength & Hope (Item #118100) card, with the Ribbon of Hope (Item #115552) stamp. Used some old retired Riding Hood Red buttons, the new Cherry Cobbler/White Baker's Twine (Item #123125), and Whisper White Organza Ribbon (Item #114319). Did you notice how I colored the pearl? It matches the Cherry Cobbler Card! This card was inspired/CASED from one of Ronda Wade's Strength & Hope cards - Thanks Ronda for sharing your gifts and talents!

A Wish for Peace (Item #111614), Four the Holidays (Item #116921), and Woodgrain (Item #117100). I just LOVE the Merry Christmas and Peace on Earth stamps from the Four the Holidays set! We stamped using Chocolate Chip and then did the poppin' pastels. I used another person's card for inspiration on this but I cannot find the original now. If it is yours, please let me know and I'll add the appropriate information!

As you can see, even though we did only four designs, we made some beautiful cards!

My next card class is scheduled for June 25th. We will be concentrating on masculine cards and there will also be a Christmas design. Click on the "Classes" tab at the top for more information. Additional information will be posted by May 25th.

Hope to see you here!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T10:30:00.000-04:00

This was my greeting from the boy. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

One More Carryover

2011-05-07T11:27:00.000-04:00

Crafters -

Stampin'Up! has one more flyer available. This is one is in Spanish for some of the new items in the Summer Mini Catalog.

Mini Companion

Enjoy!

Carry Over Items...

2011-05-03T18:10:00.001-04:00

Crafters-

Well, let's see if I did this correctly... :)

Stampin'Up! has THREE (yes, 3!) flyers with Carry Over Items listed on them. I'm going to try to link all of them here. I can send the PDF file to you via email if you would prefer.

Spring/Occasions Mini

Winter/Holiday Mini

Last Year's catties

Let me know if you were able to get those links to work! :)

I'm SO glad to see that the fabric is continuing. I'm really keeping my fingers crossed that the matching paper continues too! Don't you just LOVE SU!'s Designer Series Papers? I do!

As a friend of mine says, all the time - "Make it a GREAT day!"

Enjoy!

FREE Class with the purchase of... REMINDER

2011-04-30T07:25:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

Reminder:

Here's the original posting: http://stampingwithdawn.blogspot.com/2011/04/new-card-class-free-with-purchase-of.html.

You can order the stamp sets from my online store. Make sure you are logged into my demo website first: www.dawnstock.stampinup.net.

Hope to see you here!

Dames Meeting Today!

2011-04-23T22:49:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

You will NOT believe the beautiful cards we made today. Stephanie, Pam, Geneva, and I had so much fun!

Here are the items we made today. All items are current and available (some only until April 30th!)

Enjoy! (Click on any of the pictures for a close-up)

Remember these two pictures from yesterday?

My Swap Card - Close-up

My Swap Card

Thanks to Connie Babbert for posting her Bitty Box (http://inkspiredtreasures.com/cards/tour-de-freaks-summer-sneak-peek/)

Bitty Box - top

Bitty Box - inside

Quick Demonstration using a set earned from Sale-a-Bration

Close-up - And I didn't even have to use a Simply Sent Kit!

Strength & Hope card - Don't you just LOVE the flower? We did something similar at Leadership in January - except we used FABRIC.

Top of the Strength & Hope card - close-up

The picture just doesn't do this flower justice! We used Champagne Shimmer Paint, Paper Daisies, embossing folders - and had fun!

Stephanie's Card

Pam's Card

Geneva's Card

Check this out...

2011-04-23T00:30:00.001-04:00

Here's a little preview of my swap card for tomorrow's (actually today's now) Dames meeting. Check back Monday to see what I did with these.

Recognize the Champagne Shimmer Paint on the wings? How about the Champagne Glitter Glass? These pictures do NOT do these justice. They are just so pretty!

Buttefly sizzix die

Close-up with the Glitter glass and shimmer paint - OH SO PRETTY!

Click on the picture and you can see it really close-up! Enjoy!

May 21st Card Class Information...

2011-04-19T17:04:00.003-04:00

has been updated. Click on the "Classes" tab to find out more!

New Card Class - FREE with purchase of...

2011-04-15T06:39:00.002-04:00

Crafters -

Who doesn't like FREE? Yup - a FREE card class will be offered on Saturday, May 14th! And you will make three cards for you and three cards to be donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

How can you get this class for free you may ask? Well, let me tell you...

With your purchase of one, two, or all three of the following sets, you will be able to come to a FREE class and use your new set(s). Due to the short time frame, you will need to EACH have your own set and be on time. The class will begin and end promptly at the times listed.

9a-10:30a -Tags-Along, the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) stamp set (Stampin'up! donates $2 of each set purchased to RMHC)

#117018, $17.95, wood mount

#120513, $13.95, clear mount.

11a-12:30p - Strength & Hope, the new "cancer" set (Stampin'Up! donates $2 of each set purchased to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation)

#118100, $17.95, wood mount

#123660, $13.95, clear mount

1p-2:30p - Spring is Blossoming promotion, the new Four Frames stamp set from the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog (click the link for a picture)

#123440, $20.95, wood mount

#123442, $15.95, clear mount

Those of you who came to my workshop last month were able to see the Strength & Hope set. You can see the card I made here. It is also listed in the upcoming Summer Mini, on page 27. If you haven't received your Summer Mini Catalog yet, CONTACT ME and I will get one out to you!

Already have the stamp set?

You can attend for a cost of $10 for each class. You will need to bring your stamp set. (**NOTE: Several of you received the Tags-Along stamp set for free a few months ago from me. If that is you, and you would like to attend, your cost will be $7.)

Deadlines:

April 30, 5pm - Spring is Blossoming promotion ENDS April 30th. I will be placing an order at 5pm on Saturday, April 30th, if you'd like me to place your order (you can also order through my online store here - make sure you have selected me as your demonstrator)

May 1, 5pm - Strength & Hope BEGINS May 1st. I will be placing an order at 5pm on Sunday, May 1st, if you'd like me to place your order (you can also order through my online store for this item beginning May 1st - make sure you have selected me as your demonstrator)

BY May 1, 5pm - Tags-Along set has to be ordered. Because this set is currently offered in the 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalog, I can place the order on April 30th or May 1st (you can also order through my online store here - make sure you have selected me as your demonstrator)

Looking forward to this FREE class!

I'm registered for Convention - YEAH!!!!

2011-04-06T16:35:00.000-04:00

Well, I am officially registered for Convention now - Session 3 - where I will be a Make-and-Take helper. Now to wait for May so I can register for the classes...

We have a hotel, airfare, and are registered - Salt Lake City - here we come!!!! YEAH!!!!

Convention 2011

2011-04-02T08:25:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

As I've posted on previous blog entries, I am heading to Convention in July! We can register beginning April 6th for the Early Bird Registration. :)

If anyone is going to Convention, I will be a helper for session three if you wish to be in the same group with me, Steph, and Geneva. It always is nice to have friendly faces to hang around with. Although it is always nice to make new friends too!

Hope to see you at Convention!

TWO Promotions by Stampin'Up!

2011-04-01T07:19:00.002-04:00

First, here is the link:

http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/dawnstock/promotions

Stampin'Up! is offering TWO promotions.

1) WHILE SUPPLIES LAST....

Grab a Bag of Stampin' Up! Products!

April 1, 2011 Beginning today, April 1, and continuing while supplies last, you will be able to purchase special "grab bags" in the Online Store. These grab bags will come in three sizes: the $5, the $10, and the $15 grab bag. Each bag will contain a variety of discontinued products that could include a combination of any of the following: ribbons, Accents & Elements, chipboard, Designer Series Papers, and Simply Sent kit components. Grab bags will not contain stamp sets or tools.

Please keep the following in mind:

Grab bag orders can only be placed in the Online Store.
There is no minimum purchase required to participate in the grab bag special offer.
There is no limit to the number of grab bags a customer may purchase; however, grab bag items are only available while supplies last.
All grab bag sales are final. There are no refunds or exchanges.
Not all grab bags will be unique.
You should use the following item numbers when ordering grab bags:

Item	Description
125873	$5 Grab Bag (containing at least $20 worth of products!)
125874	$10 Grab Bag (containing at least $40 worth of products!)
125875	$15 Grab Bag (containing at least $60 worth of products!)

and

2) Spring is Blossoming Special

Promotion details: Spring is Blossoming with Sneak Peek products from the upcoming 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog. You can get these brand-new products in one of two ways:

Spend $20* on any Stampin' Up! products and become eligible to purchase both the Four Frames Set and Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper.
Host a $350* workshop and get the Four Frames Set and Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper for FREE!

*Net sales before tax and shipping

Start planning now so you can receive these exciting, new products in April--three months before the debut of the new Idea Book & Catalog!

Four Frames Stamp Set
Wood Mount: item 123440 | $20.95
Clear Mount: item 123442 | $15.95

Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper
item 122367 | $9.95

Things to Remember:

Customer orders

You must spend $20 to be eligible to purchase the Four Frames stamp set and/or Paisley Prints Designer Series Paper from the upcoming 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog.
Both items can be purchased once the $20 minimum is met; there is a limit of five per product once the $20 minimum is met. Ordering another $20 of Stampin' Up! products resets the limit and allows you to purchase another five Designer Series Papers and/or stamp sets.

Hostess option

Online orders are not eligible for this part of the promotion.
Your demonstrator must use special bundle item numbers when ordering the Four Frames Set and Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper as a reward for hosting a qualifying workshop.
There is a limit of one Four Frames Set and Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper per workshop.
Workshop must meet $350 minimum to be eligible for sneak peek products. Reward is for reaching the $350 level and is not incremental.
Hostess may choose either the wood-mount or clear-mount set. Clear blocks are not included in the clear mount set.

Enjoy!

My WONDERFUL Husband and Convention 2011!!!!

2011-03-30T16:25:00.003-04:00

Crafters -

First of all, I would be extremely remiss if I didn't tell you about my wonderful husband. He is wonderful year-round, of course, but he is such a strong supporter of my crafting business. For those of you who don't know this - he and I were fixed up on a BLIND DATE!!!!! And it was all because of a Bible verse and our faith. Do not EVER discount your words or actions. BOTH matter (ask a politician how much those matter!).

But I digress...

I applied to be a Convention 2011 Make-and-Take Helper. Guess what? THEY CHOSE ME!!!! So, since I was chosen (who am I to argue with fate?), I knew I just had to go to Convention. I was on the fence before then. My friends Stephanie and Geneva - they both wanted to go to Convention too. So guess what? We ARE going to Convention. We had booked the hotel room last year before we left, but we knew we could cancel without penalty. All we needed to get was airfare and it has been so high lately...

Well, my wonderful husband, set up an alert to let him know when airfare went down. Guess what happened today? You got it! He received an alert that the airfare went down and went down by like $150!!! That's a Level 1 Workshop! That's a LOT of stamps I can buy (not to mention the FREE Level 1 Hostess gift, and $15 free merchandise!) :)

And he is just so wonderful - he not only booked my airfare, he also booked Stephanie's and Geneva's and we are sitting together on the airplane. Isn't he just the best?

I know I'm supposed to be HIS helpmate but in this instance (and many others), he is MY helpmate, companion, and best friend. God is Good!

God said, "It's not good for the Man to be alone; I'll make him a helper, a companion." So God formed from the dirt of the ground all the animals of the field and all the birds of the air. He brought them to the Man to see what he would name them. Whatever the Man called each living creature, that was its name. The Man named the cattle, named the birds of the air, named the wild animals; but he didn't find a suitable companion.- Genesis 2:18-20 (The Message)

Thank You!

2011-03-26T20:28:00.001-04:00

Thank you to all the wonderful ladies who came to my workshop today! Here are the cards we made today:

Easter card - Don't forget the Flower For All Seasons (stamped on envelope and inside of card) is one of the stamp sets YOU can receive FREE during Sale-a-Bration!

Feminine card - could make it Mother's Day or birthday.Don't you just LOVE the Vintage Flower Adornments? (item #121879, $5.95 plus shipping and tax)

And for those who have ever attended one of my workshops, you know I demonstrate two other "things." So, here is what I demo'd today:

Another faux silk - this time with embossing on the card

Played with the "black magic" and my watercolor pencils. Use the FABULOUS shimmer paint mixed with rubbing alcohol to give it some sparkle. And do you recognize this stamp set? Probably not unless you are a demonstrator or have seen it with your demo - it is a new set coming out May 1st. Hope and Strength. For each set purchased, SU! will donate $2.00 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

So thanks to Vickie, Alice, Geneva, Summer, Jen, Ann, Charlene, Faye, Elaine, Jennifer, Josetta, Barbara, Patty, Jennifer, and Carol for attending! And a special thank you for my wonderful friend Geneva for allowing me the use of her folding chairs. You are a blessing in so many ways...

Enjoy the cards and let me know when YOU want to book YOUR workshop!

Workshop TOMORROW (Saturday!)

2011-03-25T22:38:00.000-04:00

Crafters -

I am so excited to have this workshop tomorrow. I cannot wait to have all of you over to play with glue sticks and construction paper (oh wait - that's what I use with the 9-year old!). Ok, we'll make it the "grown-up" version of glue sticks and construction paper, how about that?! And maybe even add some bling, glitter, and embossing folders too!

Thanks to my fabulous friend and downline, Geneva, I should have enough chairs for everyone. And the hubby and boy helped with getting the room set up and ready to go. I am blessed in so many ways...

I have retired stamp sets, papers, catalogs already set out for sale. I have a whole display table of fun things that I have done for classes, downline meetings, upline meetings, crafts fairs, and the like.

Looking forward to 9am! Hope to see you then!

My cards from Saturday's Technique Expo

2011-03-21T23:50:00.000-04:00

Crafters -

Here are some of the cards I made this weekend while at my upline/sideline Technique Expo. I altered some of mine slightly from the samples we were provided. Hope you enjoy!

Black Magic

Butterfly Pansies

Delft Tiles

Diaper Wipe Stamp Pad

Embedded Embossing

Faux Silk - using Flores Suaves from the Spanish Supplement

Folded Scallop Flower

Marker Dyed Pearls

Bandana Technique

Card Classes coming soon...

2011-03-21T02:21:00.004-04:00

Upcoming Classes:

Saturday, May 21st, 9a-12p

Saturday, June 18, 9a-12p

Saturday, July 9, 9a-12p - CHRISTMAS IN JULY class

Saturday, July 30, 1p-4p (after Dames meeting) - "All Boxed Up" Card sets and boxes for Christmas (and any other) gift giving!
Saturday, August 13, 9a-12p - This class is tentative/subject to change

Details will be posted 30 days before class date.

My Workshop on Saturday!

2011-03-21T00:22:00.001-04:00

Crafters -

As many of you know, we moved about six months ago (why do I still have things in boxes if it was six months ago? But I digress...). And this Saturday, March 26th, I'm having a workshop at my home.

If you haven't received your invitation yet and would like one, contact me! I'll get one out to you right away!

It will be from 9a-11a and all you need to bring is yourself! All supplies will be provided.

Make sure you RSVP by Wednesday, March 23rd. You are still welcome to come and look if you don't RSVP, you just won't be able to make any of the cards... :( And that's part of the fun!

Hope to see you on Saturday!

Oh, and yes, I'll have some of my retired items out for sale too...

Bookmarks

2011-03-08T22:58:00.003-05:00

Made about 200 bookmarks over the weekend - here are a few of them:

And here is a close-up:

If you would like one, please contact me and I'll get one to you!

All are current stamp sets and punches, but I did use a few of my retired papers.

If you would like to make some of these for YOUR group, give me a call - our 9-year old helped me put these together. He had a a BLAST putting the brads on the bookmarks - I couldn't keep up with him! :)

*******UPDATE: If you read the comments, you will see a lovely lady named Christine has posted a comment. SHE'S the one who had the idea first! She showed it in her splitcoast gallery (fabulous resource - splitcoaststampers.com). AND she has listed HER blog address. Feel free to go through and check out her creative ideas. FYI - Here is her original blog post: http://stampshacklady.blogspot.com/2009/10/teachers-are-best.html. Enjoy! And thanks so much to Christine for sharing her gifts and talents!

ONE Free Stamp Set to ONE Person...

2011-03-05T19:22:00.002-05:00

Crafters -

My coach in the Demonstrator Business Development Program has offered me a FREE stamp set to give to ONE hostess - yes, a FREE stamp set from the big catalog or from the mini catalog.

The first person who has a workshop, and a workshop means Hostess Benefits, with me will be the one to receive this. The date the workshop closes out (payment received, workshop order number, submitted to Stampin'Up!) will determine who is the FIRST person. SO BOOK YOUR WORKSHOP NOW - AND SCHEDULE IT SOON! :) EXPIRES MARCH 30TH, 2011.

AND, because Rett made a suggestion a couple of weeks ago, reminding me that I have now been a demo for SIX YEARS!!!!, I'm going to offer to the first six workshop hostesses - a special DEMONSTRATOR ONLY stamp. You can see the stamp in this post (it's the bottom picture from this post) from Convention 2010. It says "Love what you do Share what you love" - isn't that the perfect sentiment from a great company? You can use it for any anything; I gave one to each in my downline. EXPIRES MARCH 30TH, 2011.

AND, if you are one of the first six to hostess a workshop AND if it is a $400 or more workshop (does not include shipping and taxes), you will receive a free stamp set from ME! Limit one per hostess. EXPIRES MARCH 30TH, 2011.

Now for the rules:
1) ALL workshops have to be complete, paid for, workshop order number assigned, and closed out by March 30th, 2011 (Sale-a-bration ends March 31st and sometimes computer systems go down - we will close out by the 30th)
2) This is good on ALL workshops through me (workshops are those that qualify for the Hostess sets and free hostess merchandise - ASK if you have any questions) - ON-LINE, in person, catalog party, as long as there is a hostess who will receive a Hostess stamp set and free hostess merchandise - it's a workshop! See page 9 of the big catty or page 3 of the Occasions mini catty for more details on the FREE stuff you receive by hostessing a workshop
3) Only ONE person will be chosen to receive the FREE stamp set. AND I'm the one who gets to order the FREE stamp set for you - it won't work if you order it. You have to contact ME to order the FREE stamp set.
4) The first SIX workshop hostesses will also have to contact me so I can get the FREE "Love what you do Share what you love" DEMONSTRATOR ONLY stamp to you.
5) The first SIX workshop hostesses who have a $400 or more workshop (does not include shipping and taxes) will also receive a FREE stamp set from me. Contact me so I can order it for you. Won't work if you order it...
6) YOU have to contact ME in order to receive the FREE stamps. You cannot place the order online and expect to receive money back or the free stamp set. You HAVE to contact me so I can order it for you. It will not work if you try to order the Stampin'Up! FREE stamp set. Gotta tell ME what free stamp set you want. You cannot receive the free one-time-only stamp set from me any other way.

and lastly, because I don't want any confusion - You cannot order the free stamp set (the one from Stampin'Up! or from me). Only I can do that. Place your order with me and then I will order the free stamp set separately. That's the way it has to be done. If you order it, you will have to pay for it. If you want the free stamp set, I have to order it.

Contact me if you have any questions. And yes, online orders count too!

Stampin'Up! has a new promotion coming soon...

2011-03-02T17:39:00.003-05:00

Crafters -

One of the GREAT benefits of being a Stampin'Up! demonstrator is the preorders! Now, I don't want what the Jones family next door has, never have... however, I love my crafting. :)

AND Stampin'Up! has a wonderful promotion beginning next month (yes, it is after Sale-a-bration, so get THOSE orders in now!). As a demonstrator, I'm able to preorder merchandise so that I can make samples and show you the new stuff when the promotion begins. Well, I just placed my PREORDER for the new items. AND SU! has FOUR samples available for me to just CASE! OOOOhhhhh, I cannot wait to show you... Can you just read the excitement?!

SU! has been shipping really fast - I'm hoping I'll have my order next week and will be able to show you some really nice samples. AND, we will be making something using at least one of these new items on the 26th at my workshop. Don't forget to RSVP by March 23rd so you will be able to make one!

OH - and I almost forgot! If YOU sign up as a demo THIS month, YOU can also place your OWN preorder. Don't forget the Starter Kit Special - 15% off AND you will receive a special Bonus Bundle. The details are here on my SU! website (click "Join Now"). The password to sign up is "DAMES" (all capital letters D-A-M-E-S). Sign up before the end of the month to qualify!

Stampin'Up! Opportunity Calls

2011-02-19T00:00:00.004-05:00

Crafters -

As always, Sale-a-Bration is the time to become a demonstrator because of all the GREAT free stuff we get! I even signed up during Sale-a-Bration SIX years ago! :)

Stampin'Up! is offfering something called an "Opportunity Call." It is a toll-free call and it is offered only on Tuesdays through May 31st. This is a test program, and they don't know if it will continue beyond that. Basically, you can call into this conference call and hear about becoming an SU! demo and ask the company questions. You can always ask me questions, but this way you are hearing it directly from the horse's mouth, so to speak.

IF you would like to call on your own, the information to call will follow. IF you would be interested in coming over here to my home, we can call and then make a card after the phone call. Sometimes it is easier to relax our minds while crafting and then all kinds of questions come up! I don't know how many of you will attend, but if you wish to come over on Tuesday, March 1st, you are welcome. You would need to be here between 5:45p-5:55pm. I'll be calling at 5:55pm and I would like us all to respect the Stampin'Up! employee's time. The call is supposed to be over by 6:30p (with all questions asked and answered too!), so we can make a card next and you'll be done by 7pm! Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!

Anyway, here's the information:

Opportunity Calls

Opportunity Call Test Period: February 22-May 31, 2011
Details: Beginning Tuesday, February 22, and continuing every Tuesday through May 31, Stampin' Up! will be holding opportunity calls. During these calls, a Stampin' Up! staff member will share some of Stampin' Up!'s history and philosophy, and discuss the Stampin' Up! opportunity. We expect the presentation to take approximately 10 minutes, followed by a 10-minute Q&A session.
The calls will take place every Tuesday, February 22-May 31, at 11:00 AM (MT) and 4:00 PM (MT). - That's 1pm EST, and 6pm EST (Dawn).

Contact me to receive the toll free number to call and the access code you will have to enter. You will need to state your name and then you'll be added to the call. Space on these calls is limited and availability is first-come-first-served. This is a test program and, depending on the results of these calls, it may or may not be continued after May 31.

March 26th - SAVE THE DATE

2011-02-18T11:31:00.002-05:00

Crafters -

As a final "goody-bye" to Sale-a-Bration, I'm going to have a workshop here at my home on Saturday, March 26th. I have to wait for my final presentation time for the class project, so there isn't a time listed yet. THAT I will update as the date gets closer.

There will be specials throughout the workshop and it will be just like a regular workshop. You will make two cards, I will demonstrate two items, and I may even have some other cards that you can purchase and make after the workshop is over! You don't need to bring anything at all, just yourselves. AND if you bring a friend with you - someone who is new to me (as a demonstrator) - I will even give you a small gift!

So - SAVE THE DATE of Saturday, March 26th to come to my Craft Room for a workshop and to earn free items during Sale-a-Bration!

FYI - You will need to RSVP as the time gets closer (by March 23rd) so I know how many to expect.

Look forward to seeing you here!

Color Book - UPDATED!

2011-02-18T11:24:00.002-05:00

Crafters -

As many of you saw on my post here, I've taken the Color Book to the next level. Again, this was something they showed at Leadership, so mine is kinda the same, but also kinda different...

All are in the 6x6 page protectors that SU! offers.

Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Title page - this uses my Varsity Alphabet Stamp Set. Yes, the very same one I won from Stampin'Up! during the very first Recruit Crew. See that post here. I used Cherry Cobbler and Basic Gray - closest I could come to Scarlet and Gray - GO BUCKS!

InColors - Used the Full Heart Punch, along with the Bird punch (the leaf is actually the bird wing). The InColor patterns paper is from the Hostess Level One benefit - look out how GREAT the colors match!

Subtles - and bling! Don't you just LOVE the "Jewels"? See page 188 of the big catty. I used both the Rhinestones and the Pearls - all three sizes of each!

Brights with Brads and Embossing Folders. So glad SU! offers all of these - don't they dress up nicely? And you will notice the bottom right (Old Olive) uses the NEW Framed Tulips Embossing folder (see page 28 of the Occasions Mini Catty).

Regals with Buttons! I used Teeny Tiny Wishes to stamp on each of the Designer Label punchies too. I just LOVE how SU! matches the buttons with the papers.

Butterflies, stamping, punches, crimper, and ribbons! I didn't realize I had so many wonderful butterfly stamps until I did these. Although I do like my Butterfly Prints (page 107, big catty), I REALLY like my Flight of the Butterfly (page 102, big catty). Their "tail" sayings - "one person can make such a difference and that person is you!", along with "If nothing every changed there would be no butterflies - unknown." That "unknown" guy sure does have some GREAT sayings, huh? :)

Check out THIS video...

2011-02-17T05:12:00.001-05:00

from Stampin'Up! and Shelli Gardner, the co-founder and CEO. When I have attended Convention, we get to see some of the rooms that are decorated like this. All I can say is WOW and let you know that this video doesn't do the items justice.

Enjoy the video and let me know if you want to join my team of Stampin'Up! demonstrators. Now, during Sale-a-Bration is a GREAT time to sign up!

Shelli's Stampin'Up! Video

Look forward to talking with you!