{ Autumn Harvest }

In 1621

Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians

shared an autumn harvest feast known as the first Thanksgiving

celebration.

A time of reflecting on the blessings we're so THANKFUL ...

... From our home to yours

a Thanksgiving Day

filled with blessings and love ...

{ Daybook 3 }

For Today...

17 - November - '08

34.5 degrees out

windy - Brrr...

Outside my window...
one can see silhouettes of towering

trees at the forest edge against a dark gray skyline.

I am thinking...

of the turbulant times that lay before us all

during these economic times.

... continually pray for our fellow man.

I am thankful for...

... the GOD given ability to feel...

whether it be physical or emotional.

From the kitchen...

the lingering smell of a Sunday dinner of

roast turkey with the fixins'

potato with gravy

- and -

dill carrots

delish...

I am wearing...
... usual pair of LL Bean jeans

ls black tee

seedlin' green zippered fleece

happy sox

seedlin' green clogs

wedding rings

time piece

vintage gold charm bracelet

precious gold oval hoops

pancake pearls

- and -

a hint of Haiku

I am creating...

a niche for a wee bit of creating

time...

Christmas is coming.

I am going...

to be a bit ragged with the rigorous work

schedule before me this week.

however...

it's all good.

I am hearing...

the filtration of the 72 gallon bowfront

fish aquarium

from the living room.

I am hoping...

the snow will continue to hold off for another week

... maybe two.

Around the house...

dh is busily preparing for an earlier start to

his work day...

furnace just kicked on.

One of my favorite things...

is curling up on the sofa under a cozy quilt

my fur baby... Mox in tow

a good hot cuppa hazelnet to

whilst settling in to view an olde

Christmas classic such as

It's a Wonderful Life

- or -

A Christmas Carol

based on the original story by

Charles Dickens

A few plans for the rest of the week...

plans to don a few different caps

Chef's hat...

creating a homemade turkey soup with leftovers.

Gopher hat...

drop a couple of forgotten sweaters at the dry cleaners

Salesman cap...

school raffle tickets

... and spaghetti dinner open house

Taxi cap...

transporting a child between afterschool

art... chorus & band

programs.

I think you get the gest of things.

{ smile }

... last, but not least...

a picture to share

Hope is the thing

with feathers

that perches in the soul

and sings the tune

without the words

and never stops at all.

- Emily Dickinson

{ 11 + 11 + 11 = }

Armistice Day...

went into effect the

eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month

in 1918.

...not until 1926 did November 11th

actually become known as a holiday in the United States.

June 1st of 1954...

the name was changed to Veterans Day

to honor all United States veterans.

To all who've served this Great Nation...

Thank-you for an extraordinary job, well done.

Happy Armistice Day Bloggyland.

Photo found here

{ Daybook 2 }

For Today...

10 - November - '08

Outside my window...

...pitch blackness

I am thinking...

...keeping my faith Dad's procedure will go well this AM.

PLEASE don't let a moose cross our path...

as we'll never see him this early

in the morning.

I am thankful for...

... for GOD blessing me with a devoted,

supportive husband that can always

make me laugh even when I'm least deserving.

Thank-you both!

From the kitchen...

... smells of freshly brewed hazelnut coffee.

yum-o...

I am wearing...

... pair of LL Bean jeans

olive green cable v-neck sweater

leather coat

socks

pair of wooden chestnut clogs

wedding rings

precious gold oval hoops

vintage gold charm bracelet...

I am creating...

... a handwritten list for handmade Christmas gifts with

a bunch of items...

currently qualifying as an organized

mess.

I am going...

... to bed extra early...

I am hearing...

... the coffee maker...

I am hoping...

... to blog something, anything for my

Bloggyland friends this week.

Around the house...

... a peaceful quiet.

One of my favorite things...

... having a few quiet moments with a fresh cuppa

and Bloggyland friends... while the house continues it's slumber

accompanied by my ever faithful companion

... Moxie.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

... catching up on much needed slumber,

accomplishing tasks on an ever growing todo list

creating a birthday & thank-you card

... last, but not least...

a picture to share

More daybook entries here

{ 1st Daybook Entry }

For Today...

03 - November -'08

Outside my window...

Fallen leaves reflect the warm glow of a nearby

street lamp over the ground...

reverberating solitude.

I am thinking...

I've been away for such a long period of time

here in Bloggyland...

where does one begin to share again?!

From the kitchen...

The smell of freshly brewed chocolate cappuccino

... help yourself.

I am wearing...

jeans, ls brown tee layered with a seedling fleece,

soxs and seedling clogs.

I am creating...

Nothing at this very moment...

Hope to accomplish a card design using a new

paper punch that will be delivered by

week's end or sooner.

I am going...

to strive to be productive in my accomplishments...

like I did in my twenties

... at least this week.

I am hearing...

Someone getting an early start to their day.

I am hoping...

To make headway on the v-a-s-t project that lay

before me today!

Around the house...

A load of clothes to be folded, one for the dryer and another

to be thrown in...

One of my favorite things...

Autumn's...

vibrant hues of color, smell of hardwood smoke curling from a chimney,

good smells... such as apple and pumkin from the oven,

rustling of fallen leaves, warmth of a favorite sweater,

another Halloween & Thanksgiving celebration

... yet the passing of another season.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

Amongst the usual daily rigors...

continued success with weeding and re-organizing

the vast accumulation of clutter thrust out of

no where...

...last, but not least...

a picture to share

More daybook entries here

{ Remember... }

to turn your time-piece back an hour...

as daylight savings falls with October's passing.

November

Cardmaker's Calendar

4th - Election Day

Stand up and make a difference!

If you don't vote, you can't complain!

11th - Armistice Day

... or better known as Veteran's Day to Americans.

A handmade thank-you card to a Veteran

acknowledging our freedoms is a nice

gesture that we've not forgotten their sacrifices for our country.

13th - World Kindness Day

Could this lead to global PEACE?!

17th - World P-E-A-C-E Day

Begins with us extending ourselves to our fellow man.

Hopeful to see a global PEACE in my lifetime.

27th - Thanksgiving Day

What better expression of gratitude to those who

enrich our daily lives...

than with a stamped creation expressing our thanks.

28th - Black Friday

Whilest some complete Christmas shopping...

others will be trimming the tree or finishing up Christmas Greetings for mailing.

Ideas from INKAnews

Flowers for Daisy

Remembering so clearly...

The day my dear friend, Asela called to enlist help with assisting in the promotion of her newest set "Flowers for Daisy." Asela channeled her talents into creating this beautiful set with her special friend, Daisy in mind. You see, Daisy is currently in a courageous fight with cancer. Cancer has touched so many of our lives. My Dad was afflicted by cancer a year ago. Not to mention a dear childhood friend of mine's Mum was afflicted by cancer the same time, same year. We often humored that we were probably passing each other on our trips to Hanover. Humor is a saving grace. Each of us knows or has known someone afflicted by cancer.

$4.00 of every retail set sold will be donated to the American Cancer Society until the end of August as a collaborative effort by both, Asela Hopkins and Gina K. Designs.

Over the next few days be sure to visit these talented designer's blogs for inspirational ideas using Asela's beautiful set of nine images and bible verses, "Flowers for Daisy" available for purchase Thursday; July 24 at Gina K. Designs.

Amy Westerman

Asela Hopkins - Artist

Debbie Olson

Gina K.

Keri Lee Sereika

Lauren Meader

Sharon Harnist

Taylor Van Bruggen

Asela's written a beautiful post with a wonderful scrapbook layout of her friend Daisy... a definite must read. Gina K. is such an inspiration to the stamp industry with her generous spirit to help others with a cause. You might say, a bit of an angel here on earth. Gina... I sure hope our paths cross again in this life.

As you can probably see it's been a l-o-n-g stretch of time since I last picked up a stamp. It sure felt good to create again. Feel welcome to come sit a spell on the porch swing and share in some tea sipping conversation if your in the neighborhood.

Snail Mail to Cherish

Definitely a beautiful Blogger's RAK my blogging friend Tammy Fite of Stamp with Tammy snail mailed me... sure beats e-mail anyday of the week! {smiles}

Unfortunately my photo doesn't give this card the appreciation it deserves. The color combination is simply striking not to mention the ribbon detail! I definitely will "cherish" this beauty a long time to come... Never mind the personalization within. {wink} Please take a trip with a simple click to Tammy's blog for some great inspiration... you'll thank me later! {wink}

Definitely appreciated the ray of sunshine you lent to my day, Tammy! Thank-you! {hugs}

Always look forward to your swinging by for a spell. Enjoy the day!

Penny Thoughts

Phew... finally... a moment to share 2 of 3 "re-created" designs for this years AES Penny Sale donation.

During my l-o-n-g hiatus from blogging this was one of many projects on my honey-DO list as long as my arm and ever growing. {wink} I mention re-create due impart to the lack of photographing prior to delivery. This years penny sale raised just around $4,000 for the AES scholarship fund.

Card No. 1 -

1. Finished card measurements of 4 3/4 X 4 3/4.

2. Use a 1 1/4" square punch for 8 DP pieces and 1 solid square. Ink a BG with VersaMark and pierce. Adhere squares to card base... using dimensionals on middle square.

3. Punch either side of sentiment, thread ribbon, adhere oval to green square and finish off with two pearls.

Card No. 2 -

1. Finished card measurement of 4 3/4 X 4 3/4 with rounded corners.

2. Cut {approx.} a 2 3/4" X 4" strip of violet cardstock, stamp with BG and round corners with a corner rounder.

3. Cut {approx.} a 2 7/8" X 4 3/4" strip of olive cardstock, adhere a 2 1/2" X 5" strip of DP to your olive cardstock leaving an appealing amount of color to pierce on either side. Wrap, tie and randomly adhere ribbon into position.

4. Adhere strips in place. Using dimensionals add oval containing sentiment to ribbon. Add pearl accents.

XTRA -
1. Figure placement of card pieces prior to piercing unseen areas.
2. Add a clean finish to any card simply by wraping a layered strip.

Stamps:
- Lots of Thoughts by SU!
- Sanded BG by SU!

Ink:
- Eggplant Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaMark by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Old Olive and Vintage Violet {retired} by SU!
- Ivory {unknown}
- DP by Heidi Grace Designs

Accessories:
- Vintage Violet Stitched Grosgrain by SU! {retired}
- Pearls by Hero Arts

Tools:
- 1 1/4" square punch by EK Success
- 1/4" circle punch {unknown}
- corner rounder by CM
- oval punch by SU!
- paper piercer

Thanks for taking a moment to mosey over the pickets for a chat neighbor!

Flowers For Mum

Mother's Day A day observed in honor of mothers, on the second Sunday of May.

Hopefully all you mothers enjoyed your hearts disire on your special day?!

Mother's day was intended to be a quick trip to Capital City for a dress and shoes for Sophie. AES is holding their spring concert this coming Thursday evening. Sophie has a narrative part this year. {proud mom moment} A stop at LL Bean's proved profitable! LL Bean was running an additional 10% off everything in the store! The day ended with dinner out.

Do I... don't I... precisely the question I pondered while searching for just the right Mother's Day card this year? Okay, color me guilty for even considering the purchase of a card! My wonderful family helping me in my search for the right card. All the while proclaiming aloud how much nicer mum's {that would be me} cards are than these store bought things refered to as cards... FINE! I'll make a card! Well, here's where my creativity lead me... SIMPLE!

If time allowed and mum wasn't a regular viewer... I'd have chosen to share with all of you sooner! {wink}

MANY THANKS to those of you who continued to take a moment to visit during the days of my inability to post regularly.

May

Cardmaker's Calendar

3rd - Nat'l Scrapbooking Day

Workshops, crops and sales...

Join the nationwide event of stocking up

on supplies and ideas!

4th - World Laughter Day

Laughter being the best medicine...

Practice random acts of silliness to spread a little cheer!

6th - Teacher's Day

Create a personal thank-you with your child

for their teacher.

11th - Mother's Day

Remember Mum with a handstamped card,

and jot down a funny memory or poignant moment

that defined your life.

17th - Armed Forces Day

Honor those in the military with a

heartfelt thank-you for all they do for our country.

26th - Memorial Day

Originally called Decoration Day, a day of remembrance
of those who have died in our nation's service.
Flowers and small American flags are traditionally placed on graves
of fallen soldiers that fought to defend our freedom!

Ideas from INKAnews

April

Cardmaker's Calendar

10th - National Sibling Day

Reminisce of fond childhood memories with a

sibling by sending a card.

18th - Pet Owner's Day

Truly, our pets are part of our family.

Create a scrapbook page, a stamp craft project or card in honor

of a beloved pet using animal themed stamps to.

22nd - Earth Day

First celebrated in 1970, this nationally observed day helps

to inspire and guide us to keep our HOME planet

healthy! Learn how you can join in at

www.earthday.net

23rd - Administrative Professionals Day

Express your gratitude to those people who handle

the details and make your workday easier.

Ideas from INKANews

Tis' True

... I'm "missing" my Bloggyland friends! Unfortunately my workload this week hasn't alotted much time for putting stamp to paper! {sad face} Currently, I feel as though I've been dragged through a knot hole! Reminder to self... do not drink the iced coffee your DH comes bearing after work!

Today's share was originally created and accepted for the March edition of Cards magazine as a promotional for Kim Hughes cute curls stamp set. Unfortunately... it appears to have been cut?! Hopefully it comes home to roost soon. {wink}

As always I appreciate your fluttering by to extend a warm hello in my direction. See ya soon! {smile}

How Old...

Time to rise n' shine...

Hard to imagine it's FRIDAY already... where has this week flown to? {Yikes}

This isn't your typical "Anne" card, but strangely enough I find that everything of late needs to be "rounded!" {LOL} Besides... it carries the rounded tag nicely, don't you think? Not to worry... just a passing phase of mine. {wink}

When our daughter, Sophie saw this card I created for another blogger's birthday... her comment was, "_____ is going to be 59?" What... Upon closer inspection I noted the position of numbers within the collage. After responding to her question we all enjoyed a good chuckle! Hopefully the recipient will too? I've added a "cupcake" stencil, so that should make-up for any misunderstanding! {LOL}

1. Start with a 4 1/4" X 6" finished card.

2. Cut and set aside the 2 3/4" X 3 3/4" embossed number collage intense pink layer. Swipe with Brilliance moonlight white for added pop!

3. Cut and set aside the 1 1/2" X 5 1/2" embossed swiss dots strip of spring willow light layer.

4. Stamp image using chocolate chip ink to frosted pink. Stamp two more images on frosted teal and spring willow light, cut and layer to your tag.

5. Add ribbon, bling, play with your layout and adhere!

XTRA -
1. Purchase a variety of embellishments in white. This enables the customizing of trims, flowers, etc... using an ink pad or re-inker.

2. Embellish a sentiment using bling, brads or gel pen.

Stamps:
-Happy Birthday $pot (Kolette Hall) by Studio G

Ink:
-Classic Chocolate Chip by SU!
-Brilliance Moonlight White by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
-Frosted Pink, Intense Pink, Frosted Teal and Spring Willow Light by Prism

Accessories:
-Creative Candy Mini Star by A Muse
-Organdy Ribbon by SU!

Tools:
-1/16" Circle Punch by McGill
-Cuttlebug Number Collage Embossing Folder by ProvoCraft
-Cuttlebug Swiss Dots Embossing Folder by Provocraft
-Corner Rounder by CM

I truly apologize for abandoning everyone, but as you know it's Easter Sunday this week! {too early} My schedule hasn't afforded me the leisure of volunteering on the Easter bunny's behalf until today... so I'll be hopping along!

Thanks for taking a moment to mosey over the pickets for a chat neighbor!

$pot Thoughts...

After learning one of Sophie's past teachers was out of school with a terrible case of the flu last Friday. I also learned this same teacher would be out this coming week due to her husbands battle with lung cancer. {...thud}

Definitely needing a thinking of you card... yesterday found me creating this card with a $pot stamp purchased from Mikes almost a year ago! {ack!} Admittedly... the first time putting this stamp to ink! I'm resolved to creating with items in my midst and rationalizing all new future purchases this year. {kwim}

I stamped the fern on white cardstock using chocolate chip dye ink. Then using a blender pen and ink pads I colored in the image. A border of varied strips adds accenting color to the stamped image. Easy peasy! {wink}

Stamps:
-Thoughts Of You (Kolette Hall) By studio g
- Scratched Grid BG by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
-Chocolate Chip Classic by SU!
-Lettuce Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
-Willow Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger

Cardstock:
-Desert Coral Light, Frosted Orange, Frosted Teal and Spring Willow Light by Prism
-Fossil by The Papaer Cut (Stamping Memories)

Tools:
-Blender Pen by SU!
-Xyron 250 create-a-sticker
-Dimensional tape by Scotch

Technique:
-Watercolor

Hard to believe another weekend has flown by! {shakes head} Believe it or not... tomorrow is St. Pat's Day for our Irish friends! Remember... wear green! {wink}
Cheers to our paths crossing tomorrow!

Springy Hello...

Today's card is one I've yet to share with my friends in Bloggyland.

After arriving home from our usual after school routine back in October... I found a message from Kim Hughes requesting me to call her regarding a project!? Long story short... Kim appeared to like my work enough to invite me to create some "spring" samples with her Cute Curls for a CARDS publication she was involved. Out of three samples provided... this is the one not published! There's always the off chance that even though a creations accepted for publication... it can still be CUT when the publication goes to print! {sad face}

Unsure... if I'll be able to share something new with you until Saturday. Today's another busy day with hair appointments and a "special" school district meeting at 7 PM that has teacher's and taxpayer's in a bit of a scrimmage! {shakes head} Yesterday, brought a call from the school nurse that Sophie was experiencing a headache. From what the nurse was saying there's a cold virus thats brought on suddenly with a nasty headache! {ACK!}

Stamps:
-Cute Curls (Kim Hughes Collection), Petite Patterns BG by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
-VersaFine Vintage Sepia and VersaMark by Tsukineko
-Olive Pastel Fluid Chalk by ColorBox

Cardstock:
-Walnut Brown by Bazzill (Stamping Memories)
-Certainly Celery and Soft Sky by Stampin' Up!
-Pale Pink Shimmer by The Paper Cut (Stamping Memories)

Accessories:
-Pearls by Kandi Corp (Stamping Memories)
-Ribbon by May Arts (Stamping Memories)

Tools:
-Flower Punch by Punch Bunch
-Tag Die by Sizzix
-Paper Distresser by Heidi Swapp
-Paper Piercer

Enjoy your day... looking forward to seeing you again soon! {smile}

Hoot & Holler Scholar...

Here's a THIRD sample created using U R A Hoot released last Thursday by Cornish Heritage Farms.

Graduation ceremonies are usually held between the months of May and June for universities and high schools. What better inspiration for a graduation card than school supplies? Substitute the graduates school name for the "composition" book label! Another idea... would be to adapt colors to correlate with a graduates school colors. {wink}

Admittedly... it's been a while since I've attended a graduation ceremony. So I'm unsure if this little owl graduate has positioned his tassel to the "correct" side? Hey maybe he's not reached the podium to receive his diploma yet! {LOL}

Stamps:
- Pretty Pattern BG by Cornish Heritage Farms
- U R A Hoot (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Foursquare (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Copyright Angel Stamp Plain by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Denim, Aqua and Mountain Rose Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaFine Onyx Black by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Frosted Yellow, Black and White Prismatic by Prism

Accessories:
- Black Brad
- Mini anodized gold paper clip by Creative Impressions
- Gold Tassel
- Dimensional Tape by Scotch

Tools:
- Edge Distresser by Heidi Swapp
- Watercolor Pencil
- Blender Pen

It appears we have NO big storm systems in the mix for New Hampshire this week! WHOOT, WHOOT! {wink} Might the Farmer's Almanac for this region have fortold untruth for Friday's BIG flurry forecast? Sure hoping so... keep everything crossed we don't receive Ohio's storm of late! Us Yank's commiserate with our Ohio friends.
Thanks for bundling up and braving the cold for a visit.

Cuckoo Time...

Hopefully you remembered to SPRING your clocks ahead an hour before you set off to slumber last night?

Did you realize it was Benjamin Franklin who first conceived the idea of "daylight savings" in an essay "An Economical Project" in 1784 as an American delegate in Paris? - OR- How London builder William Willet in 1907 was first to seriously advocate the idea in the pamplet "The Waste Of Daylight." -OR- Read here how we've evolved over TIME.

If you hadn't noticed... Easter "springs" early along with the time change this year?! Did someone fail to clue Mother Nature in on setting a precedence as to when the real mccoy begins! {sigh}

On another note I couldn't resist sharing my friend, Joyce's delightfully clever "cuckoo" clock creation! Not only is it bright and cheery, but so true... daylight savings drives some of us CUCKOO! {LOL} Thank-you for the smile, Joyce! {{{HUGS}}}

Today's rather blustery after experiencing monsoon weather the past couple of days here in New Hampshire.

Appreciate your paddling in to visit!

Curly Christmas Fir

Had all good intentions of creating a blog post last evening! Maybe even stamp-up another idea using Kims' new U R A Hoot and Bold Curls sets released yesterday?! When I made the HUGE mistake of momentarily sitting down on the sofa with a cup of decaf! {sigh} Well, then I caught a chill! In other words... the sofa HELD me down while the down throw TIED me up... Well, that's all she wrote!

So, what are your thoughts on this "curly fir" card? Well, let me tell you... it's my least favorite of the three designs stamped for CHF's new release! BUT my most popular!? {insert dumb founded here} Hind sight being 20/20. I could've, would've, should've done a bit of piercing to my trees curled limbs? hmmm...MAYBE! Might I have pierced a partial border creating symmetry to my card front? hmmm...MAYBE? Stamped my owl in a different brown? hmmm... MAYBE! And the list continues! Being my own worst critic and having run out of blush red dark paper by Prism! I couldn't start over! So I needed to just post and live with it! {ACK!} When I get five minutes it's getting a CINDERELLA make-over! {LOL}

A friendly reminder... ALL ORDERS placed with CHF $35 or more receives FREE SHIPPING within the USA! {wink}

Stamps:
- U R A Hoot (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Bold Curls (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Cardmakers Shapes (Mona Lisa Moments) by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Lettuce, Espresso and Hazelnut Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaFine Vintage Sepia by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Blush Red Dark, Spring Willow Light and White Prismatic by Prism

Accessories:
- White Flocking by Cornish Heritage Farms
- White pom-pom
- Gold Tassel
- Dimensional Tape by Scotch

Tools:
- Swiss Dots Emboss Folder by Cuttlebug
- Watercolor Pencils
- Blender Pen

Yesterday was a glorious day with a high of 46 degrees and PLENTY of SUN! {sighs with a smile} Friday is blowing in with a wintry MIX through tomorrow! Oh, well... can't dwell on it! Everyday is what we choose to make of it, so with that said... dawn a smile, enjoy the day to it's fullest as you don't get a chance at REPEATING this day again! {HUGS}

Thank-you for driving by with a wave in my direction!

Picketing

... the turning of another year "young!" {wink}

Finally back on my feet after feeling "under the weather" since February 27th... Historically school vacation during the month of February was to rid the school of winter illness'?! Tis true... influenza is all the rage this time of year!

If you fell in love with Kims' set called Pretty Birds then you just might want to brace yourself for Cornish Heritage Farms release of U R A Hoot tomorrow! {bouncin'} Along with another set called Bold Curls.

Many a people I've known have been turning the preverbal 29 every year... for years! This year marks a BIG cake n' candle day with a BIG 0 behind it for me... reason to "picket?" Nah... your only as old as you feel and that can range anywhere from 21 to 100... pending the day! {wink/LOL}

Stamps:
- U R A Hoot (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farm

Ink:
- Denim Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- Hazelnut Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaFine Onyx Black by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Classic Red, Frosted Yellow, Frosted Kiwi and Twilight Medium by Prism

Accessories:
- 7/8" grosgrain ribbon by Offray
- Black Glaze Pen by Sakura
- White Glaze Pen by Sakura
- Toothpick
- Dimensional Tape by Scotch

Tools:
- Decorative Scissors by ProvoCraft
- Swiss Dots Emboss Folder by Cuttlebug
- Piercer

Just think it's another "hump day" already! We're almost through another week... {sigh}

Thank-you for giving a "WHOOT" about checkin' in on me! {{HUGS }}

Vintage Easter...

Anyone who knows me... understands my passion for olde relics of days gone by. Warmth radiates from time worn pieces someone might have used daily out of necessity.

A favorite pass time of mine is to spend a rainy day wandering through an antique shop... reminders of my childhood or reminiscing of past generations ingenious inventions for ease of daily work. I'm a bit overdue on a day of wandering and reminiscing! Truly need to set a day aside soon. {smile}

Vintage postcards were considered beautiful works of the heart! {wink} Most often embossed with gilded imagery.

Today, Cornish Heritage Farms released "modern" Christian images by artist Aimee Nugent in time for Easter. Aimee's images are a beautiful way of sending words of encouragement, sympathy, baptism or wellness. These images speak of classic elegance that will remain in style for some time to come.

If you'll note the "modern" church image on my card? It doesn't appear so modern with it's distressed, time worn appearance?! My opinion is... CHF has the classiest religious images available to stampers. LOVE them all... {smile}

It's been a rather long day with the on-set of yet another storm threatening us with 12 inches of flurries! Another system on the horizon for tomorrow afternoon into Thursday morning with the possibilities of another 4 to 6 inches! Uncle, uncle, uncle already.... {sigh} Since we're expecting to be snowed in tomorrow... Won't you consider dawning your snowshoes and coming by to share another creation made with Aimee's beautiful images tomorrow? {smile}

Stamps:
- Weathered Wood by Cornish Heritage Farm
- Cross with Vines (Aimee Nugent) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- He Is Not Here (Aimee Nugent) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Modern Church (Aimee Nugent) by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Hazelnut Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaMark by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Suede Brown Medium, Suede Brown Light, Herbal Garden Light, Desert Coral Light and Frosted Orange by Prism

Accessories:
- Detail Gold EP by Judi-Kins
- Fine Line White EP by Embossing Powder Candy Store
- Adhesive Pearls by K & Company
- Dimensional Tape by Scotch

Tools:
- Sm Carla Sakura and Med Carla Sakura Punch by Carl Mfg Co
- Lg Petite Oval Nestabilities by Ellen Hutson, LLC

Technique:
- Heat Emboss

Wednesday's... PRINCE spaghetti day! {smile... childhood commercial} Thank-you for braving the snow and coming by to visit! Much appreciated...

Thoughts...

Sunday being family day... will lend to keeping it short and sweet! *wink*

Today's share is created using CHF's newest Fine Finials and Sophisticated Swirl BG's by Aimee Nugent. Sophisticated Swirl held a resemblance to ribbon for me.

As much snow as New Hampshire's received this winter. It's provoked "thoughts of" spring with rich brown soil and lush green buds just waiting to burst with colorful blooms... Lying dormant under ALL that snow! *happy thoughts*

Where to begin -

1. Create a 4 X 6 1/4" finished card of Kraft cardstock.

2. Using Espresso Adirondack ink stamp Fine Finials BG onto upper portion of card base.

3. Cut and pierce a piece of Herbed Garden Medium cardstock layered with a piece of kraft cardstock stamped with sentiment in Espresso Adirondack ink. Add copper brads prior to mounting layers.

4. Cut a strip of Suede Brown Dark cardstock embossed with Sophisticated Swirl in Copper EP.

5. Die cut a fern frond of Herbed Garden Dark cardstock pierced and mounted with dimensional tape runner.

Supplies List -

Stamps:
- Fine Finials BG by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Sophisticated Swirl BG by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Silhouette Blooms I (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Espresso Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaMark by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Kraft by Paper Reflections (Michaels)
- Suede Brown Dark, Herbed Garden Dark and Herbed Garden Medium by Prism

Accessories:
- Mini Copper Brads by Creative Impression
- Copper EP by Judi-Kins
- Dimensional Tape by Scotch

Tools:
- Sm Classic Rectangle Nestabilities by Ellen Hutson, LLC
- Fern by Sizzix
- eyelet setter
- Paper piercer

Technique:
- Heat Emboss

I'd like to take a moment to thank everyone for posting some lovely and encouraging comments to creations I've made... Definitely warms my heart and brings a SMILE to my face!
Tomorrow is a brand new start to a new week! Go with a smile...

Fine Finials Cross

Easter is a holiday that "hops" from year to year between the months of March and April. Might this be how the Easter bunny came about?! *wink* Easter arrives March 23rd this year!

Cornish Heritage Farms is in the process of releasing a new line of "Inspirational" stamps by a new artist... AIMEE NUGENT!

Inspiration for this design was based on Aimee's Fine Finials BG being released tomorrow! Inspiration for me never starts with any one thing in particular. My inspiration doesn't ALWAYS start with a color combo, layout and/or stamp... sometimes it might even be an embellishment!

Monochromatic hues of eggplant and plums holds Easter memories of my own childhood. Copper EP adds warmth with the hue of "rose gold" to this simple creation.

Xtra -
1. Create a Cross template simply with strips of cardstock.
2. Fancy up a Cross with punches and/or decorative scissors.
3. Create and carry the eye with a pierced "layer" vs. layers of cardstock.

Supplies List -

Stamps:
- Fine Finials Bckgrndr by Cornish Heritage Farm
- Silhouette Blooms I (Kim Hughes Collection by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Dusty Concord Distress Ink by Ranger
- VersaMark by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Majestic Purple Dark, Majestic Purple Medium and Majestic Purple Light by Prism

Accessories:
- Copper EP by Judi-Kins
- Bronze Brown Brads by Joann Essentials
- 3/8" Ivory Organdy Ribbon
- Dimensional Tape by Scotch

Tools:
- 1/16" Circle Punch
- Decorative Scissors by ProvoCraft
- Paper Piercer

Technique:
- Heat Emboss

Sophie's back in school tomorrow after being home ill. Sorry to cut and run, however I have an appointment with my mechanic for our SUV tomorrow early AM... besides yet another storm blowing in for early afternoon! *sad face*

Enjoy your R & R the next couple of days! *smile*

Kimmy Sh-ughes...

Heard or own a pair of Jimmy Choo Shoes?! *wink*
The name, Jimmy Choo inspired my own line of KIMMY SH-UGHES! I thought it was a cute play-on-words?! Okay, so I won't quit my day job! *LOL*

Since CHA is over, I'm able to share a couple of projects using Kim Hughes rubber stamp line. I designed these Mary Janes for Cornish Heritage Farms CHA display. Some of you may have viewed them around Bloggyland already... *wink*

This years CHA theme being fashion... brought about the Prism color challenge and promotion of Kim Hughes Collection by CHF. Immediate thoughts of darling canvas Mary Janes sprang to mind. New Hampshire isn't currently stalking shelves with these these canvas cuties. Off to the local second-hand store to find a NEW pair a previous owner may have forgotten in their childs closet... now "out-grown!" Now if only the fabric DYE industry would catch-up with the stamping industry! *wink*

Xtra -
1. Leave tissue inserts in shoes to be stamped.
2. Prepare "pressed-in" innersole if being displayed prior to wearing.
3. Beeswax thread prior to use for ease of stitching.

Supplies List -

Stamps:
- Bloomin' Beautiful (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Brown by Fabrico
- Timber Brown StazOn by Tsukineko (inner sole)

Cardstock:
- Spring Willow Medium by Prism
- White by Georgia Pacific

Accessories:
- Birchtone "Vintage" Buttons
- DMC Floss

Tools:
- Embroidery needle
- Beeswax
- Sewing Pen (disappearing)
- Thimble (optional)

Technique:
- Embroidery

Today won't bring us closer to exposing the completion of my TRIPLE Challenge... *sad face* However... I will be sharing some "sneak-peeks" of CHFs' newest artist! *wink*

Have a FUN-tastic day! Thank-you for strolling by the neighborhood to visit.

T & T Challenge

While some were away at CHA...

The CHF design team members who were unable to attend CHA decided on a few friendly challenges amongst ourselves. Tuesday's challenge consisted of Julia's CHA Prism color challenge...

and Thursday's "limited supply" challenge was to use one or two backgrounders,
one image and one sentiment stamp. To save time I decided to "combine" a couple of challenges... The craziness of last week is what dictated my combining the fun! *wink*

Alright, so I neglected to incorporate the Intense Pink cardstock into my design, however you'll note the Intense Pink (precise match) brads! *wink*

Make sure you check out CHF designers’ Dawn, Kristine, Mary and Tami's blogs for their designs if you haven't already?

Supplies List -

Stamps:
- Jan/Feb 2008 Delicate Wings (Asela Hopkins) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Leaves no.3 Bckgrndr by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Timber Brown by Tsukineko
- VersaMark by Tsukineko
- Colored Chalk (Michaels -or- art supply store)

Cardstock:
- Papaya Puree Dark, Papaya Puree Medium, Papaya Puree Light, Spring Willow Medium & Birchtone Dark by Prism

Accessories:
- Intense Pink Mini Brads by Making Memories

Tools:
- Sm Petite Scallop Oval Nestabilities by Ellen Hutson, LLC
- Sm Petite Oval Nestabilities by Ellen Hutson, LLC
- 1/8" Circle Punch by Carl
- Lg. Scallop Scissors by ProvoCraft

Technique:
- Chalk

Blogger has really put me through my paces today with photo uploads, not to mention loss of completed posts twice today! I certainly had hopes of finalizing my TRIPLE combination creation using Wednesday's "sketch" challenge, Friday's "anything, but a card" challenge and Feathered Friday's challenge for tomorrow...

As always... I appreciate your swinging by to visit and chew the fat for a while!

Vintage Redwork Valentine...

X-X-X-X-X-

Redwork... is from the days when one could purchase "muslin penny" squares at a local dry good store. The squares were stamped with designs for ones stitching pleasure. Little girls would practice their stitches on these squares. Monochromatic being the color scheme, colors of red, blue or black thread were used.

The red thread was usually dyed with Turkey Red dye and only stitched with the one color. Washing and drying the stitched fabrics in the sun would not fade the colorfast red thread.

If anyone has more knowledge of the history of Redwork to share... please do! *wink*

My dear friend, Asela over at Hop Art Studio is so generous to share some Valentine designs with us... can't wait to see what you create with them! *wink*

Xtra -

1. Use Nestabilities for accents, frames or base of ATC's.

Stamps:
- Vintage Valentines by Stampin' Up!

Ink:
- Warm Red Fluid Chalk by Colorbox (Stamping Memories)

Cardstock:
- Real Red by Stampin' Up!
- White by Georgia Pacific

Accessories:
- Red Grosgrain by Stampin' Up!
- White Heart Brads by Source Unknown

Tools:
- Lg. Classic Scallop Rectangle Nestabilities by Ellen Hutson, LLC
- Sm Classic Rectangles Nestabilities by Ellen Hutson, LLC
- Paper piercer

Technique:
- KISS

Wishing you a Valentine's Day stitched in love!

X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-X-

Horrible, No Good, Rotten Week...

My humble apologies for lack of posting last week! There was so much to do between snowstorms last week.

As if weather and such weren't enough... our washing machine decided to take a l-o-n-g sabbatical Saturday AM in the middle of a load! ACK!!! What do you mean you need a rest after only 11 years of service?! We managed to shop (does it come in RED -or- PINK), purchase, install and un-install old and new in a day prior to the next storm blowing in... much EARLIER than anticipated! *rolls eyes* Here's to a better week ahead! *wink*

Stay tuned for more eye candy to come. In the meantime... you can view a sample of my work
for Cornish Heritage Farms booth at CHA here...
I appreciate your checking in on me.

Wings of Chalk...

New Hampshire weather has us experiencing a two hour delay for school, which suddenly turned into a CANCELLATION! You mean I'm up, showered and NO place to go!

My creation "stemmed" around my friend, Asela's SOTM Delicate Wings released in January by Cornish Heritage Farms and extended through February. I {HEART} Asela and her designs! There's still time to add this beauty to your private collection! You know that old addage... snooze, you lose! *wink*

During Super Bowl Sunday I finally hung-up the stamps when I just couldn't seem to pull my creation together. Besides I needed to watch the New England Patriots get their hinny's whooped! *sad face* Today... with the weather an all... definitely seemed fitting to get the stamps out and finalize this creation once and for all! How do you think it turned out? Be gentle with me... *LOL* I think it may even fit the CPS Sketch50 this week.

Xtra -
1. Backgrounder too small... camoflage with piercing, ribbon or whatever you can imagine.
2. Remember to use a "workable fixatif" when using chalk in a design.
3. Hammered eyelets can be achieved with an eyelet setter courtesy of my friend, Joanne

Stamps:
- Jan/Feb 2008 Delicate Wings (Asela Hopkins) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Pretty Pattern Bckgrndr by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Espresso Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaMark
- Colored Chalk

Cardstock:
- Coco by The PaperCut
- Frosted Teal, Frosted Kiwi & Vanilla Cream by Prism

Accessories:
- Mini Copper Brads by Creative Impressions
- Large Copper Brads by Staples

Tools:
- Sm Classic Sq Nestabilities by www.ellenhutson.com
- Sm Classic Scallop Sq Nestabilities by www.ellenhutson.com
- 1/16" Circle Punch by McGill
- eyelet setter
- Paper piercer
- Krylon Workable Fixatif (Michaels)

Technique:
- Chalk

*Disclaimer - wings appear more green in color. However, IRL they are a bit more of a teal blue.

Expecting to awaken to another possible 6 inches of flurries tomorrow. Will we be attending the winter recreation program or not? We'll just have to take a wait and see approach! Attempting another design for your viewing pleasure, but today was like having several days attack me all at once!

Thanks for dawning your muk-a-luks and wading in to visit.

Prism Paper

...Color challenge contest.

The yummy color palette offered great inspiration for me to join in my first contest... evah! However, it wasn't but by the skin of my teeth and awaiting blogger approval that I made

it... hopefully! If not... I still had fun participating! *wink*

Winner to be announced February 2nd...

Here's my contest entry...

Cardmaker's Shapes "thin oval" reminded me of a large blossom found on a rattan or woven grass souvenier one would find when they visit Hawaii, Florida or places of the like...

Stamps:
- Cardmaker's Shapes (Mona Lisa) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Cute Curls (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Peach Bellini, Denim & Terra Cotta Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaMark by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Twilight Dark, Twilight Medium, Papaya Puree Dark, Papaya Puree Light & White Prismatic by Prism

Accessories:
- Brads by Making Memories
- Blue Crystals
- White Detail EP

Tools:
- Paper piercer
- Stamp-a-ma-jig by EK Success

Technique:
- Masking
- Heat Emboss

Heard of killing two birds with one stone? *wink* Precisely my "aim" when I designed it around Cornish Heritage Farms new release of Cardmaker's Shapes and Classic Essential Expressions yesterday! Dual stamping is definitely my style....

In case FeedBlitz failed to notify you? Scroll for yesterday's post called Birthday Blow-Out! Feathered Friday experienced a temporary delay this week due to the new release over at Cornish Heritage Farms.

I appreciate and look forward to the next time you drop by for a visit...

Birthday Blow-Out!

I know, I know... FINALLY! *LOL*

The whole purpose was to showcase the TONIC border system I spoke of here! My creation was coming along as envisioned... when the paralysis struck! Sentiment??? Thankfully, patience and tenacity paid off in the scheme of things.

My dear friend, Lynette sent me the most beautiful card using the butterflies punch with the TONIC BorderSystem here! Lynette did you notice that I accomplished this in under a month?! *wink/LOL*

Birthday candles are equipped with a punched border of stars as flames! The star outline and Wish Big! sentiment are from Cornish Heritage Farms latest sets Cardmaker's Shapes and Classic Essential Expressions released TODAY! Mona Lisa already knows that I'm "wishing" for a Cardmaker's Shapes II! *wink*

Xtra -
1. Create a decorative sentiment window using decorative scissors.
2. Embellish a punch-out or sentiment.

Stamps:
- Star outline from Cardmaker's Shapes (Mona Lisa) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Wish Big! from Classic Essential Expressions (Mona Lisa) by Cornish Heritage Farms
- Polka Dots Bckgrndr by Cornish Heritage Farms

Ink:
- Pool Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
- VersaMark by Tsukineko

Cardstock:
- Spring Willow Light, Blush Red Light, Frosted Teal, Frosted Yellow & Sunflower Medium by Prism

Accessories:
- A MUSE Twinkle Stars from Ellen Hutson, LLC
- Barbara Twombley's Art Institute glitter
- White Detail EP

Tools:
- scalloped scissors by ProvoCraft -OR- Word Window Punch by SU!
- Spellbinders Nestabilities STARS from Ellen Hutson, LLC
- TONIC BorderSystem
- Star TONIC Border Punch
- Stamp-a-ma-jig by EK Success
- 250 create-a-sticker by Xyron

Technique:
- Heat Emboss

Have a wonderful weekend! It's a double header this week for Sophie's B-Ball team! On a side note... blogger's being difficult with my here links above where colors concerned! *grumpy face*

I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Random -OR- Weird...

Whom tagged me? None other than my two dear friends Sue and Keri!

Here are the rules: • Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog. • Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog, we all want to know them. • Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs. • Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Seven random or weird facts...

1. A Coughing jag almost always usually ends with a single sneeze!

2. Braces have been a part of my life for the past 7 3/4 years and still counting! Add the orthodontist check-up right along beside the yearly mammogram, pap smear & dental cleaning.

3. Definitely not your stero-typical mall rat. I dislike shopping of every kind with the exception of stamps or stamp related items! *wink*

4. My tales of woe generally send others into fits of laughter.

5. A large portion of my height consists of 31 inches of all leg.

6. At sixteen I passed the written and driving portions of my test with 100%. Parallel parking was the driving portion... I was absent the day our driving instructor covered this section!

7. I hope one day to travel to FRANCE to visit with my dear friend, Jennie!

8. I do not snore... I stayed up one whole night just to find out! *snicker*

BONUS - Be sure to check-out the comments section of this post to learn more entertaining facts, as my friends will be adding their 2 cents I'm sure! *LOL*

The majority of bloggers I know or visit have been tagged already! HOWEVER if you've not been tagged... you have now! *wink*

On another note... If you remember this post HERE ? I will be posting my creation by tomorrow morning at the very latest, whether it kills me or not! *LOL* Thanks for having patience with me... Lynette!

Enjoy your day doing whatever makes you happy.

I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Feathered Friday...

I have good news and bad news, which would you like to hear first?

The bad news is...
Cornish Heritage Farms temporarily delayed its' release of Mona Lisa's stamp sets until next week.

Now for the good news...
Your viewing a taste of Cardmaker's Shapes and Essential Expressions that will debut next week! Do you like how I used the OVAL image to make a "grove" of Poplar trees?!

Okay... now for the explanation of Feathered Friday's. I'm quite infatituated with birds of nature, not to mention my collection of stamp related birds. What better challenge than to create a bird themed card weekly?! Okay, so I slipped in two birds this week... the other's perched here if you missed it! *wink*

Xtra -
1. Re-inforce intricate punched images by stacking and adhering between layers.
2. Sponge using a sandwich baggie.

List of Supplies -

Stamps -
Cardmaker's Shapes Backgrounder by Cornish Heritage Farms
Stems from Bloomin' Beautiful (Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms
With Sympathy from Essential Expressions by Cornish Heritage Farms
Ink -
Denim, Espresso, Ginger, Lettuce & Willow Adirondack Dye Ink by Ranger
Cardstock -
Citron Green & Fossil by The PaperCut available at Stamping Memories
Suede Brown Dark, Twilight Medium & Vanilla Cream by Prism
Accessories -
Brown Brad by Doodlebug
Hemp Cord by Fashion Naturals (Wal-Mart)
Tools -
Sparrow paper punch by Martha Stewart
Corner Rounder by Creative Memories
Paper piercer
Technique -
Sponging

Tomorrow we're off to cheer Sophie's B-Ball team on! Then it's back to the grind on finalizing projects to be mailed. Enjoy your weekend.

I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

The Rummage Bin Give-Away...

Do you SCRAP? Then scoot over to Cornish Heritage Farms to view a brand new line of rubbah called THE RUMMAGE BIN that our designer Lesley Langdon has created... extraordinaire!

Interested in a free SAMPLER set? A sample set offered here here or

you can read more here... hurry, it all happens today!

CHF's gallery is stocked with inspiring samples using all TEN sets.

Photo courtesy of Lesley Langdon

Ladybug "Take-Out"...

Come celebrate KiM HuGhEs newly released Foursquare and Silhouette Blooms II with a wee bit of "take-out!" *wink* Currently available at Cornish Heritage Farms.

The excitement doesn't stop with KiM... CHF is experiencing a week of stamping mania with THREE new releases!

A fortune cookie card is a bit of a stretch from the everyday greeting card. Not to mention that it's packaged in it's own little custom "take-out" ladybug box! My intent was for my fortune cookie greeting to resemble a heart-shaped leaf along with a "leaf" friend tag on the handle! Success... well let's just say it's not "out of the box!" *LOL*

Behold more incredible creations in the CHF Gallery from the other designers -OR- another view previously posted.

Xtra -
1. Exchange the fortune cookie message for CA$H.

List of Supplies:
Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Kim Hughes Collection Foursquare, Silhouette Blooms II and Reverse Dots Bckgrndr.
Cardstock - Prism Classic Red and Georgia-Pacific White.
Ink - VersaFine Onyx Black and Adirondack Citrus.
Embellishments - Sakura Black Glaze Pen, A MUSE Creative Candy Mini Heart and Hemp Cord. Other - Coluzzle, McGill 1/16" Circle, Paper Shapers 1" Circle.

I look forward to our next visit. Until then...