Paper Ink-Pressions

{ Armistice of 2009 }

2009-11-11T07:56:00.014-05:00

Americans

Respect

Military

Independence

Salute {{ our }} Soldiers

Tribute

Integrity

Comrades

Equal

There aren't enough words to express the gratitude felt by those of us fortunate enough to sleep under the quilt of freedom provided through the service of our Veterans!

Thank-you for your dedication to keep this Great Nation FREE!

Photo available here

} Your Special Day {

2009-05-20T03:35:00.007-05:00

Sharing a slightly varied version of a card given mum for Mother's Day.

My perfectionistic nature tends to trip me up in the satisfaction department!

The variations consist of...

vertical vs. horizontal, addition of ribbon and add'l. butterfly.

... am I happy now!? Um... maybe! Yet another version tugging at my thinker. { LOL }

Simply the nature of the beast!

Since I have a lack of thoughts to elaborate on at this hour of the morning...

I'll attempt a wee bit of paper play to share later.

{ -A. }

} Cuppa Enjoyment {

2009-05-19T03:30:00.006-05:00

JUST a little something...

designed to hold a gift card for some Newman's iced cuppa's for DH

{ darling hubby - wink } to enjoy at his leisure.

A teeny splurge we randomly enjoy throughout the summer season.

Coffee wasn't my cuppa... at least not until I began courting DH

... over 22 years ago.

Certainly not myself without the usual travel mug of coffee per AM. Chilly fall days bring the enjoyment of a cuppa decaf together and hot summer days we enjoy a mid-afternoon refresher of iced Newman's

Life's too short not to allow ourselves a few indulgences...

Wouldn't one agree?

My apologies for seeming in a bit of a R-U-S-H...

today is definitely a { 10 } on the scale of BUSY! Thursday brings AES' spring concert.

Not to mention DH winning four tickets to see a Fisher Cat's game this Friday!

Remember to take a moment to smell the roses

... whatever that rose may be?!

{ Serving of Thanks }

2009-05-18T03:37:00.012-05:00

Seriously now... where has time flown?!

Well... it's sorta kinda been a blur... it's gone so fast?! As most of you know work keeps me out of trouble most of the time. Homework, end of school year { xtra } book fairs, Mother's and Father's day luncheons, beach day, class trips, last day of school planning, etc.... There never seems to be a lack of TA-DA'S on my list!

Okay, so let's go back to the month of April when our daughter, Sophie celebrated another cake n'candle day! Phew... I'm maturing rapidly! These were the "thank-you" cards I created for Sophie to write her notes of appreciation to those who remembered her special day. What better way to "serve" thankfulness than on "hob-nail" milk glass the old-fashion way. Unfortunately... as a society we've misplaced our values along with etiquette when it comes to mailing a note of thanks. { I shoulder some of the blame here... } NO MORE! It's become increasingly important for our family to gravitate back to "grass roots" living on multiple levels these days.

We { all three } were happy with the outcome...

What say you?

Stamps:

- Bold thank... by Penny Black

- Cupcake by Hampton Arts Studio G

- I do by Hampton Arts Studio G

{ * Studio G can be found in Michael's $pot near you }

Ink:

- Pearlescent Chocolate Brilliance by Tsukineko

Cardstock:

- Apricot Appeal, Cameo Coral, Certainly Celery, Kraft and Whisper White by SU!

Accessories:

- White Opaque Pen by Inkssentials

Tools:

- Circle Punch and Scallop Border Punch by SU!

- Brackets Punch by McGill

- Dots A2 Embossing Folder by CuttleBug

A happy beginning of the week to you!

{ -A. }

{ Kitchen Kreative }

2009-04-16T05:37:00.006-05:00

Part of my joy is being -creative- in the kitchen as well as my stamping area.

Sweet potato casserole is part of our family holiday side dishes... we refer to as

legalized dessert!

Even the pickiest of eaters can't resist the temptation for "dessert" with

dinner... { wink } My apologies if you came looking for a paper creation. Personally, I find diversified blogs more interesting. What say you?

Sweet Potato Casserole -

5lbs. sweet potatoes - boiled & mashed

3 large eggs

1/2 C. sugar

2/3 C. melted butter

1/3 C. heavy cream

1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp. nutmeg { 3/4 tsp. for us }

1/2 tsp. allspice { + a smidge for us }

Beat the eggs and stir in potatoes. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Spread into GREASED shallow baking dish. Approx. 13 X 9 pan. { vintage pie plates for us }

Topping -

1 C. brown sugar

1/3 C. flour

1 C. chopped pecans

1/3 C. butter or margarine { broken into small pcs. }

Blend the topping mixture with fork or hand. Sprinkle over the top of potato mixture.

Bake approx. 60 to 70 minutes in a 350 degree oven.

T-GOD-IF! Today finds me thanking our good Lord for a much needed school vacation for rest and regrouping the soul.

Thank-you for the "windowsill" visit while the sweet potato casserole cooled.

If your in the area... stop by for a visit... we'd love to see you!

{ Tax & Tea Day }

2009-04-15T19:31:00.005-05:00

April 15th marks the final day for your tax contribution to BIG GOVERNMENT .

Today also marked the modern day Boston Tea Parties held around the USA.

Really it was T N' T day... { wink }

{ Easter Past }

2009-04-13T05:11:00.006-05:00

Just imagine...

A few days ago we found ourselves preparing for Easter dinner, an egg hunt

and gathering goodies for Easter baskets. In a blink of an eye it's come and gone for another year!

Now... I find myself creating a few 'thank-you' cards for those fifth grade

mum's willing to provide baked goods for the Easter celebration.

Are you tiring of the clean and simple creations around

paper punches and the same color combinations used prior?!

Okay... we'll change-up the next creation or two... I promise... really!

Oh... almost forgot... has anyone noticed? Notice what you say...

this will be my FOURTH { yes... count them} day in a row to post something NEW

for you!

Stamps:

- Stem Silhouettes by SU!

Ink:

- Pearlescent Chocolate Brilliance by Tsukineko

- Pearlescent Moonlight White Brilliance By Tsukineko

Cardstock:

- Certainly Celery, Kraft, Old Olive and Soft Sky {retired} by SU!

- Shimmer Pink {unknown}

Accessories:

- 3mm Adhesive Pearls by Hero Arts

Tools:

- Egg {medium} Punch by Carl

- Dotted Wave Edger Punch by EK Success { NEW }

Never so happy as when you come by to share a hi...

2009-04-12T05:50:00.009-05:00

Wishing you a Blessed Easter

... from Paper Ink-Pressions

Vintage Postcard courtesy of Hubpages

{ Spring Branch }

2009-04-11T05:33:00.006-05:00

Some of you may have remembered yesterday's post { Punch Some Spring } ...

where I mentioned TWO kindness'? Well, here's the second creation.

Unsure if you see what I see?

This 'thank you' sentiment { LOVE this olde, but goodie } had

me thinking of budding branches... which wouldn't be complete without

a feathered friend perched amongst the blossoms.

Speaking of 'thanks'....

I would like to personally thank each and every one of my

Bloggyland friends { olde & new alike } for continuing to visit regularly.

However, a special thank-you

to our newest friends { blog followers }

... Turista Di Monda,

Gay Ferland,

Teresa Bryant

Lesley...

Your visit(s) hasn't gone unnoticed {wink}.

It's another busy day in the Sanborn household.

... After all it's EASTER Sunday tomorrow!

there's EASTER baskets to be filled, cards to be created...

not to mention a sweet potato casserole to be prepared

Should you be in the Bloggyland neighborhood?

Be sure to drop-in to say hi!

Stamps:

- Script thank you sentiment { unknown }

Ink:

- Pearlescent Chocolate Brilliance by Tsukineko

- Pearlescent Moonlight White Brilliance By Tsukineko

Cardstock:

- Barely Banana, Kraft, Old Olive and Whisper White by SU!

- Morning Song DP by Prima Marketing

Accessories:

- Micro Dot Creative Candy by A Muse

Tools:

- Ash Leaf { small & medium } Punch by Punch Bunch

- Sakura { small } Flower Punch by Carl

- Flower Corner Punch by Punch Bunch

- Perched Bird Punch by Martha Stewart

Remember to take a few minutes for yourself!

{ -A. }

{ Punch Some Spring }

2009-04-10T08:07:00.001-05:00

A drizzly week here in New Hampshire had me pining for a wee bit of SPRING

... so Aprils' showers had me creating paper flowers along the fence.

In between the day to day, over and over work

... a couple of surprise kindness' of two sweet friends sparked

my interest to create a simply stated note of THANKS.

My apologies for posting and running, however

... the day to day requires my finalizing the taxes for this afternoons

appointment with the accountant!

Wishing you "spring" in your step today...

tomorrows post promises another spring filled day... hope to see you lurking around!

Stamps:

- Script thank-you sentiment { unknown }

Ink:

- Pearlescent Chocolate Brilliance by Tsukineko

Cardstock:

- Barely Banana, Certainly Celery, Kraft, Old Olive, Soft Sky and Whisper White by SU!

- Morning Song DP by Prima Marketing

Accessories:

- 3mm adhesive pearls by Hero Arts

Tools:

- Picket Fence Border Punch by Martha Stewart { available at Michael's }

- Dotted Wave Border Punch by EK Success { NEW } {available at Michael's }

- Flower Punch by Punch Bunch {available at Stamping Memories }

* { FYI } { NEW } after an item means it's a brand new release for 2009

{ Subscriber's }

2009-03-30T09:27:00.002-05:00

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{ Blog Lift }

2009-03-29T09:22:00.013-05:00

Paper Ink-pressions has under gone a temporary blog lift!

Whilst traveling the streets of Bloggyland, Lindsay of L. Miller Designs

sense of style held appeal for me through her use of...

exhilerating combination of color

textured {side} borders

elegantly simple post signature

stylized blog button

organized tabs for a clutter free professional appearance.

Lindsay's 2nd blog The Miller Experience held appeal for me through

her use of...

vibrant combination of color

wallpaper of black medallions over-lapping top & bottom

of blog background with thin black frame containing blog header and blog post within...

classy sophisticate!

Lindsay's 3rd blog, Bella Bleu appealed to me through her use of...

detailed coloration of {side} borders

post icon with shadow detail

colored blog header with color details

four-sided frame containing blog header and post

Lindsay's in the process of designing an elegant classy sophisticated

"blog lift" to Paper Ink-Pressions!

Hopeful our new blog lift will inspire the creativity to flow again.

Thank-you, Lindsay for embracing the challenge!

{ Not Upto Snuff }

2009-03-03T07:44:00.004-05:00

Awoke this morning feeling quite miserable with a doozy of a head cold...

Gathered a few necessities to get me back on my feet.

Hubby offered to assist me by playing Mr. Mom and candy striper for the day.

No... I assured him I'd find my muster and rally. After driving Sophie to school, re-arranging my schedule... I was off to the couch for a bit of r and r.

Ever so much to do! Suppose the germ-O's could care less...

I've been creative with my paper, ink and stamps.

Unfortunately...

it will have to await another day to be shared.

Appreciate your checkin' in on me

... however be sure to keep your distance

{ air hugs }

-A.

{ Daybook 5 }

2009-03-02T07:42:00.008-05:00

For today...

02 - March - '09

22 degrees

Outside my window...

a peaceful snow storm

... mounds and mounds of soft flaky stuff.

I am thinking...

of all the things needing my attention...

chinese laundry

kp duty

bathroom detail

creating a b'day card & gift container

& the list goes on & on...

if u no what I mean.

I am thankful for...

a snowday

From the kitchen...

scrambled eggs

a slab of thick cut bacon

slice of toast slathered in
butter

with a serving of Oj

{ smells divine }

I am wearing...

the usual garb required for putsing around.

I am creating...

huge mess on the kitchen table

I am going...

to accomplish more than yesterday on my "ta-da" list!

I am hearing...

snow plows going by

the familiar noise of the wood pellet stove

dd singing while performing usual AM chores

Around the house...

there's never a lack of things to be done

... know what I mean?!

One of my favorite things...

scurrying around Bloggyland to view others creative side,

kitchen inspiration

- or -

... everyday happenings.

A photo shared...

you've seen what's cookin' from the kitchen

...help yourself!

{ smile }

more daybook entries here...

{ With A Happy Heart }

2009-02-25T06:22:00.006-05:00

... I've always created { dd } Sophie's Valentines. Generic... store bought... for our daughter - NO WAY, I respond to others. Deprave myself of the insane last minute-ness

of Sophie's decision to reciprocate { past 2 years } the evening prior!

Valentine's morning saw us scurrying to the local post office to mail a handmade surprise or two

... my "internet" friend from MN { shock probably set in - wink }

and a couple for people alone. Our big hearted girl, Sophie felt badly these

individuals might not be remembered.

Twenty-two mini versions { no paper piercing } of the above card were created for fifth grade...

along with carrot cake - pink cream cheese frosted hearts and cookies...

{ sorry for the missed photo opt - no freakin' me out time }

Well worth every minute...

Sophie's classmates voted them their best or favorite Valentine received { two happy hearts - her's and mine }!

Even though sixth grade brings an end to class parties...

we've discussed ideas for our happy heart day { 2010 }

recipients.

{ kindness kindles hearts }

{ 52-Q Week 1 & Week 2 }

2009-02-23T07:40:00.007-05:00

{ Week 1 - what do i wish for this year to bring }

To this { ? } my answer would be...

For 2009 to bring a positive global awakening on many levels.

The back of my tag holds a { Personal } wish for my family.

{ Week 1 tag - created embossed frame using an aluminum can }

{ Week 2 - am i afraid of change }

No... I wouldn't classify it as fear...

My analytical nature doesn't always accept, adjust and adapt immediately

pending the change...

... however, FAITH sustains me.

Looking forward to creating weeks 3 & 4...

certainly 'hope' you'll be by for another visit soon?!

{ Daybook 4 }

2009-02-23T06:12:00.012-05:00

For today...

23 - February - '09

26 degrees out

fresh falling snow, still falling...

W-I-N-D-Y

Outside my window...

Thursday's storm { of 7" } combined with a childs play

left this lovely sight behind...

{ Smile }

I am thinking...

more like remembering the feel - smell - sights of

SPRINGS return...

{ happy sigh }

I am thankful for...

opportunity to create a better day,

than yesterday.

From the kitchen...

nothing brewin' or cookin'

... yet... !

{ wink }

I am wearing...

a pair of...

jeans

happy socks

slippers

earrings

accessorized by...

ls shirt

fleece

and specs.

I am creating...

pages 3 & 4 of my Q-52

in my mind...

I am going...

for a walk with the family to our town library

for the classic movie, West Side Story...

DD Sophie's request.

I am hearing...

the w-i-n-d howling outside

familiar hum of the pellet stove

Animal Planet

and the ocassional Sophie giggle.

I am hoping...

for an even more productive day than yesterday.

Around the house...

we've been on a slow role, but are starting to gather some

gusto for the big get-up and go...

LOTS of shoveling awaits!

{ ACK }

One of my favorite things...

... piping hot bowl of raisin spice oatmeal topped with a smidgeon

of 1/2 & 1/2...

{ Mmmm... }

... plenty to share.

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

usual daily { over & over work } around the house

working outside our home to supplement & sustain our home

{... which I'm so blessed everyday this continues }

attempt to bring my Q-52 current...

or at least within a single question of current!

{ chuckle }

A picture to share...

you've viewed Outside my window... already!

More daybook entries can be viewed here.

{ Ladle Full Of Goodness }

2009-02-05T07:57:00.019-05:00

Looking for easy-peasy... like you slaved all day tasty bowl of goodness that will have even your pickiest connoisseurs coming back for seconds?!

Rustic Italian Tortellini

12 Italian sweet sausage links {approx. 4 oz. each}, sliced & casings removed

1 med. onion, chopped

6 garlice cloves, minced

8 C. chicken broth

2 {14.5 oz.} cans of diced tomatoes, undrained

1 {20 oz.} family size pkg. of refrigerated {fresh in deli} cheese tortellini

2 {6 oz.} pkgs. of fresh baby spinach

1 t. dried basil or 2 1/4 t. fresh basil, minced {oregano or thyme can be substituted}

1/2 t. pepper

Optional -

dash of crushed red pepper flakes

Parmesan cheese, shredded

Directions -

1. Add sausage to Dutch oven; add onion. Cook and stir over medium heat until sausage is no longer pink in color.

2. Add garlic; cook and stir add'l. 2 minutes.

3. Add chicken stock and tomatoes. Bring to a boil.

4. Stir in tortellini; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered approx. 5 to 8 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stirring occasionally.

5. Add spinach, basil, pepper and pepper flakes; cook 2 to 3 minutes longer or until spinach is wilted.

Ladle and serve with Parmesan cheese.

Yum-O, Delish... Our family of 3 enjoyed a couple of meals with seconds PLUS a few lunches... Great way to add a meal to the freezer when a quick meal is needed!

Be sure to take five minutes for yourselves today... better yet, 30 minutes could really be rejuvenating! { HUGS }

Recipe Courtesy of Foodiewife with modifications by A. Sanborn

{ Fifty-two ? }

2009-02-04T06:01:00.010-05:00

Emily's 52Q mini art journal challenge for 2009 is based on a single question {Emily's choice} posted each week for 52 weeks. Every week { Sunday -or- Monday } a new { ? } will be posted... our challenge is to { artfully } journal the { ? } of the week.

Emily opted to use manila shipping tags { found at office supply stores }, writing her { ? } on the front and journaling on the back. Love the manila tags idea... HOWEVER due to economic times choices were made from the bounty of items on hand -or- repurposed items.

Remember...

It's NEVER to late to join the fun!

s-m-a-l-l isn't as OVERWHELMING combined with the K-I-S-S technique...

Off to play a bit of catch-up with weeks 1 & 2 { ? }

Today was meant for enjoying your hearts desire!

Repurposed cardboard box insert used in creating front & back covers.

{ Wake-up Phil }

2009-02-02T08:12:00.002-05:00

Fingers crossed our groundhog friend, Punxsutawney Phil won't see his shadow! So we might enjoy an earlier spring for once... What do you say, Phil... it's suppose to reach forty today?!

Happy Groundhog Day!

Photo Courtesy of Washingtonpost

{ 2009 - 1st Day }

2009-01-01T11:36:00.014-05:00

2009 - January - 1st

... with a New Year comes NEW experiences

traditionally our family's holidays are spent together over a meal.

breaking with tradition...

we're taking Sophie and her friend, Sarah off to a matinee of

The Tale of Despereaux

... wondering how the movie will critique over the book...

on our drive home!

--- our last day of 2008 was spent with NEW experiences as well ---

31st - December - 2008

... Our family decided to break with the tradition of Chinese take-out this year!

a NEW experience of dining on a variety of NEW appetizers

consisted of ...

mini sloppy-joe sliders

loaded sweet potato skins

spinach - artichoke dip w/ veggies

Crockpot mini meatballs

{ from scratch }

followed by the movies...

WALL . E

{ agreedily, CUTE... but not PIXAR'S best }

- and -

The Bucket List

{ PHENOM... a post to follow }

... bringing us into the New Year

Sophie's FIRST new experience of staying AWAKE...

12 minutes after MIDNITE to see the going and coming of a year!!!

{ Autumn Harvest }

2008-11-27T08:18:00.011-05:00

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 }

2008-11-17T05:20:00.010-05:00

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

2008-11-16T09:19:00.006-05:00

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 = }

2008-11-11T07:55:00.017-05:00

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 }

2008-11-10T04:52:00.012-05:00

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 }

2008-11-03T04:34:00.007-05:00

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... }

2008-11-01T18:03:00.007-05:00

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

as daylight savings falls with October's passing.

2008-11-01T07:16:00.012-05:00

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

2008-07-22T06:14:00.007-05:00

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

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

2008-06-04T06:08:00.010-05:00

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

2008-05-22T05:11:00.009-05:00

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

2008-05-13T04:17:00.006-05:00

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.

2008-05-02T05:12:00.002-05:00

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

2008-04-04T05:04:00.004-05:00

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

2008-03-27T05:07:00.007-05:00

... 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...

2008-03-21T05:29:00.004-05:00

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...

2008-03-16T12:45:00.003-05:00

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...

2008-03-13T05:05:00.003-05:00

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...

2008-03-10T04:30:00.006-05:00

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...

2008-03-09T10:55:00.008-05:00

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

2008-03-07T05:22:00.008-05:00

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

2008-03-05T06:41:00.009-05:00

... 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...

2008-02-26T16:49:00.007-05:00

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...

2008-02-24T17:25:00.010-05:00

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

2008-02-21T19:53:00.007-05:00

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...

2008-02-20T06:59:00.007-05:00

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

2008-02-18T10:30:00.018-05:00

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...

2008-02-14T09:03:00.004-05:00

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...

2008-02-11T05:59:00.001-05:00

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...

2008-02-05T20:15:00.000-05:00

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

2008-02-02T12:11:00.002-05:00

...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!

2008-02-01T23:37:00.001-05:00

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...

2008-01-29T06:44:00.000-05:00

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...

2008-01-25T06:39:00.001-05:00

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...

2008-01-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

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"...

2008-01-22T18:47:00.001-05:00

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...

It's Been A While...

2008-01-21T19:57:00.001-05:00

Isn't that the truth...

You won't want to miss my friend, KiM HuGhEs Collection Silhouette Blooms II and Foursquare scheduled for RELEASE over at Cornish Heritage Farms today!

It's been a tad chilly here in New Hampshire the past few days. Impending shower of flurries for this afternoons commute. Hard to fathom... we were experiencing a taste of Spring a few weeks back with temps in the mid-fifties!

It's been a while... seemed rather fitting since I've been amongst the missing once again! LIFE definitely has a way of keeping me busy with Sophie participating in basketball this year, AES winter recreation program, creating a couple samples for Febuary's CHA, etc.... *wink* Not to mention my stampityness took an extended sabbatical over the holidays! However... my head's definitely back in the game of things! *rolls eyes*

Xtra -

1. Flocking can be added using a Xyron machine.

2. Extend life expectancy of chipboard by tracing, cutting, stamping and adding to your creations. Definitely... XTRA bang for your buck!

3. Colorbox FLUID Chalk inks are a great way to add POP! It appears to lift off the paper.

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Kim Hughes Collection Silhouette Blooms II, Scratched Grid Bckgrndr, Montana Tree Bark Bckgrndr.
Cardstock - Prism Suede Brown Dark, Tawny Dark and Vanilla Cream.
Ink - Adirondack Espresso and ColorBox Fluid Chalk Chestnut Brown, Rose Coral and Olive Pastel.
Embellishments - Cornish Heritage Farms Camel Flocking, K & Co. Adhesive Pearls and Essentials green square button.
Other - Maya Road "Birds Of A Feather" chipboard and Corner Rounder

Hope you'll return tomorrow for a "twist" on the everyday greeting card... FUN!

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

TONIC...

2008-01-15T05:20:00.000-05:00

Nope... wrong kind of "tonic!"

Tonic Studios Border System was this years gift pick from our Local Stamp Store for a couple of stampity friends on my Christmas list.

The alure?

1. Little effort or exertion is required.

2. Allows crafters to accurately create perfectly patterned edges. Great for cardmaking or scrapbooking!

3. Exceptional value for your DOLLAR... never mind the ability to ADD-ON to this item for any gift giving season!

To ORDER this item, simply click-on the link provided to call Liz or Bette. Their always willing to SHIP anywhere within the USA! Did you know that thee T!M HOLTZ recommends TONIC products?

Samples to follow this post shortly...

Impress the "punch" out of your Valentine! Shopping... the other great sport!
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

2008

2007-12-31T21:52:00.000-05:00

Our wish for you is all the best life has to offer in the New Year!

East Coast, Mid-East & Our Cat...

2007-12-28T09:16:00.001-05:00

What does my East Coast friend Shelly, Mid-East friend Lynette and our cat, Moxie all have in common?

Can all of you in Bloggyland guess? *wink* They've all grown another year older! Combined, they are 103 years old today, HOWEVER discretion will be used as to their numeric numbers. Mum was correct when she stated... "None of them have tails!" *LOL*

Wishing all three of you a SPECIAL Cake N' Candle Day!

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

America The Beautiful...

2007-12-11T05:04:00.001-05:00

Some of you are thinking... WHAT... Fourth of July this time of year?! PATRIOTISM should remain in our fore front 365 days of the year... everyday of our lives! FREEDOM is a GIFT given to us at the cost of many AMERICAN Soldiers for generations past, present and future... allowing us to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza...

Cornish Heritage Farms officially RELEASED 7 new sets in the KiM HuGhEs Collection today! America The Beautiful being one of my absolute favorites! How blessed and honored to be able to work with such a fabulous new release of KiM's!

Just received a cable from the NORTH POLE...
I was instructed to let you know that you've all been wonderful ELVES this holiday season, to go ahead and treat yourselves to 1 of ALL 7 New Releases... that SPECIAL Santa in your life will accept the charges! *wink* My personal SANTA instructed me to R-U-N over to Cornish Heritage Farms to put my order in lickity-split quick before the rest of you! *LOL* Hey... where are you going? Mind you... I DO NOT need to be told twice! *LOL*

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Kim Hughes Collection America The Beautiful.
Cardstock - PRISM Twilight Dark B309-E, Blush Red Dark R049-E, White & Smoke Blue.
Ink - ColorBox Fluid CHALK Warm Red, ColorBox Fluid CHALK Blue Iris & Butter Yellow.
Embellishments - A MUSE Creative Candy Mini Star & Red Grosgrain Ribbon.
Other - Marvy Uchida Mega Scalloped Rectangle Punch, Giga Rectangle Punch, McGill 1/16" Circle Punch, Paper Piercer & Paper Distresser.

If while your out Christmas shopping, mailing off Christmas cards, running errands or whatever it is you might do... should you see a Serviceman or woman... what a wonderful season gesture to send them a warm smile, a Merry Christmas or even a "Thank-You?!"

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

JOY Of Christmas...

2007-12-10T04:35:00.001-05:00

Or might it be Christmas JOY! Do you have a preference...

In an attempt to multi-task for a recent NEW release, product spotlight and technique talk for Cornish Heritage Farms... here's my end result! LOVE a challenge, can't you tell?! *LOL*

This was CHF's Technique Talk for Bottle Cap Pins by my friend, the ever lovely and talented Keri of Pink Lemonade. This is a fun project anytime of the year! If your one who's already finished the shopping, wrapped, mailed and delivered the gifts... mailed off all your handmade Christmas greeting with a yearly family update... house is thoroughly cleaned and decorated (each and every room of the house)... already started baking the holiday cookie swap plates... then by golly you've plenty of time to sit and make some of these bottle cap pins JUST FOR FUN! Have you considered hiring your services to others?! *LOL*

Must admit... I'm NOT one of those woman... might this be one of my New Year's resolutions for next year?! *LOL* This weekend found me cleaning our living room from the rafters to the floorboards in preparation of our Christmas Tree. I did manage to hang a wreath or two and disperse other Christmas decor! Other major accomplishments were Sophie's new dress shoes for AES Christmas Concert this coming Thursday, sifting of the perverbal overdue mail of importance, junk mail & off in the mail, a wee bit of special cake n' candle & Christmas shopping for a couple of special gals, MORE Christmas gifts acquired and lunch with the special man in our lives... my hubby, Sophie's Dad! *wink* How was that major run-on sentence! *LOL* Hopefully you accomplished all you set out to do this weekend?

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms newly released Scratched Grid Bckgrndr and KiM HuGhEs Collection Christmas.
Cardstock - BasicGrey Fruitcake Collection DP, Bazzill Pomegranate, SU! Certainly Celery & So Saffron.
Ink - VersaMark, VersaFine Vintage Sepia and newly added VersaFine Crimson Red.
Embellishments - Bottle Cap, Barbara Twombley UltraFine Diamond Dust, A MUSE Creative Candy Mini Star, Ranger Glossy Accents, Pin Back, Detail Clear EP, SU! Certainly Celery Grosgrain, Velcro.
Other - Paper Distresser, Chipboard Paper Piercer & Paper Punch.
Technique - Bottle Cap Pins Tutorial & Paper Piecing.

IDEAS - Cover chipboard star with stamped image or DP. Punch two holes to attach bottle cap pin to your chipboard star. For easy "on/off" removal of pin use velcro for attachment of star to your card front.

Managed to accomplish some household duties with my cuppa this morning, along with a couple loads of laundry & visiting with you! Wishing you a productive day accomplishing your list of tasks! When I arrive home from work... there's a NEW RELEASE to prepare for over at Cornish Heritage Farms! *wink*

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

First SNOW DAY...

2007-12-04T05:36:00.000-05:00

We went to bed on Sunday evening with a warning of an impending 8 to 18 inches of flurries starting late Sunday into Monday! My friend, Keri of Pink Lemonade had been e-mailing snippets back and forth with me... I commented to Keri that I'd definitely enjoy a SNOW DAY in my jammies! *LOL* Mind you our school NEVER cancels, let alone delays school! *wink* Around 8:27 PM an e-mail from Keri arrives letting me know that I need to e-mail her if we wake-up to snow... that she'll have a snow & jammie day together! Isn't she just the sweetest!

Well low & behold... Monday morning arrived with 5 inches of flurries on the ground here in New Hampshire! SCHOOL was cancelled! It continued snowing HEAVILY all day! Dashed an e-mail off to Keri as promised... this was her BLOG POST! *LOL*

Keri being the preverbal ball of energy that she is... EXPRESSED her beautiful creation to me via e-mail! YIKES... I would need my Ginsana to keep up! By the time I finished this creation to send via e-mail... I figured on another 1/2 dozen more waiting in my inbox?! THANKFULLY... the chill of the SNOW DAY had her laying down for a snoodle! *wink* Keri your always welcome to spend a snow day with us here in New Hampshire! *Mmwahh*

Snow being the catalyst... This was the design around Keri's sketch of Sue Berker's gorgeous card found here.

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Snowflakes, Petite Pattern Bckgrndr, Scratched Grid Bckgrndr & Kim Hughes Collection Christmas.

Cardstock - SU! Blue Bayou, Soft Sky and Certainly Celery.

Ink - VersaMark, SU! Blue Bayou and Old Olive.

Embellishments - K & Co. Pearls and SU! Cranberry Crisp Stitched Ribbon.

Other - SU! Slit Punch, X-acto knife, Paper Piercer & Paper Distresser.

Technique - Masking.

It would appear as though WINTER has officially arrived here in the Granite State!

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

CHF Birthday Bash...

2007-12-01T07:40:00.001-05:00

WOW... we were all so busy preparing for Lisa's "30th" shin-dig, it's hard to believe it's come and gone so quickly!

Here's the CHALLENGE links for a play by play of incredible ALL DAY fun! All who joined in the celebration... THANK-YOU for making Lisa's BIG 30 a spectacular memory!

Birthday Girl Chat!

Challenge Basics - ? Answered Here!

10 AM - Alli's Color Challenge

11 AM - Lori's Masking Technique

12 PM - Kristine's Limited Supply

1 PM - Etha's Limited Supply

2 PM - Tami's Sketch Challenge!

3 PM - Anne's Project Challenge!

4 PM - Dawn's Technique Challenge!

5 PM - Sharon's Sketch Challenge!

6 PM - Mary's Color Challenge!

7 PM - Lesley's Inspiration Challenge!

8 PM - Lisa's Way To Use It!

9 PM - Debbie's Sketch Challenge!

10 PM - Mandy's Monochromatic Challenge!

Phew... that's quite a list of FUN! REMEMBER you had to play any of all listed challenges until 3 AM (pending time zones) Sunday; December 2nd to be eligible to win prizes! HOWEVER... it's NEVER TO LATE to participate in any of the challenges and upload your creations for fun! So what are you waiting for... I plan on participating after the fact myself! *wink* In regards to the INSIDE of the purse?! I wanted to give Lisa's new purse that "broken-in" feel! Don't tell me you didn't want to play at least one gag or prank? That's what a BIG milestones all about! *LOL*

We have a phenomenal group over at Cornish Heritage Farms! So BLESSED to be a cog in such an incredible wheel of talent!

Psst... hey Liz if you read this... I'm having a BIG 40 this coming June! Might Asela, Kim & Lisa design something special?! *LOL/WINK*

Come Celebrate...

2007-12-01T05:34:00.001-05:00

It's official... Lisa Strahl of Mona Lisa Moments turns the Big 30 today!
Wishing our favorite chicka and yours... only the best life has to offer in the years to come!

Okay... we've got a busy day planned for all of you! Cornish Heritage Farms released 16 New Backgrounders in honor of their creator... the one and only Lisa Strahl! Being a backgrounder junkie you may have guessed what I'll be asking Santa to fill my stocking with this year! *wink* Do you think Santa would mind playing courier and attach my backgrounder wishlist to Lisa's Christmas stocking?! *LOL*

Remember... "there's a PARTY going on right here a celebration to last throughout the year"... okay, only today from 10 AM EST to 10 PM EST! No need to RSVP and party crashers are always welcome! *wink*

Cornish Heritage Farms Scratched Grid reminds me of quilts (another love of mine). I set stamp to paper and created a vintage "quilted" Christmas Stocking to hold Cornish Heritage Farms Gift Certificates of all denominations... ONE SIZE FITS ALL... no need to be a last minute shopper this year! *wink* It's only December 1st... still plenty of time to stamp up some of your own Christmas Stockings. If you should create your own stockings won't you come back and share them with all of us? I know I speak for everyone, when I say... we want to see too! *wink*

EDITED - I became so caught up in the celebration... I forgot to leave you with a list of supplies! ACK!!!

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Scratched Grid Bckgrndr, Weave Backgrndr & Asela's Christmas Tree.

Cardstock - Bazzill Pomegranate Red, Pale Green, Vanilla Cream & Butter Yellow.

Ink - Dark Green & Caramel.

Embellishments - Off White Organdy Ribbon, Sakura Gold Gelly Roll Pen (Garland), Pearls & Brad Accents.

Other - Mega Oval Punch, Fiskars Star Punch, McGill 1/16" Circle Punch & Provocraft Paper Edgers.

As much as I'd love to stay and chat with all of you... I can't! There are things to do, like finish my challenge for all who care to participate for 3:00 PM EST! So without further a do, I bid you a do! Toodle-oo!
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Mark Your Calendar...

2007-11-29T20:13:00.001-05:00

for an ALL DAY celebration over at Cornish Heritage Farms Forum in honor of Lisa Strahl's BIG 30th Birthday... not to mention the release of Lisa's 16 New Backgrounders on Saturday; December 1st!

All of us from CHF have been "Etch A Sketching" some FUN-tabulous challenges, games, prizes and chatter starting at 10 AM EST until the last challenge posted at 10 PM EST! It just wouldn't be a party without all of you, so spread the verbal invite... NO RSVP necessary! *wink*

In the meantime... Lisa of Mona Lisa Moments has been working on 30 incredible gift giving ideas using her new backgrounders just for all of you!

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

Gift Bag Greeting...

2007-11-27T20:00:00.000-05:00

I offer my most humble apologies to all who visit regularly! The vortex of life swept me up and sucked me in... *wink* Honestly... work, family, volunteering at Sophie's school, submissions to publications and preparing for an upcoming release over at Cornish Heritage Farms hasn't allowed me to many couch and bon bon moments!

Well as I'm sure you've all noted... the commercialism of Christmas grabbed a foot hold prior to all of us giving appropriate Thanks! Every year I promise that I will start next years Christmas cards in January... definitely no later than February, however it takes all of January to re-coop from the fatigue of the month prior! Then along comes Cupid! Next thing I know... Christmas has arrived once again?! How in the world does it always sneak-up and bite me in the preverbal butt-ocks?! *scratches head*

Black Friday lent inspiration to my design for this "gift bag" greeting. Target offers the greatest gift bags, wrapping paper, tissue, etc... every year in my opinion. Another inspiration was Cornish Heritage Farms SOTM for November Starry Snowman by my friend and accomplished Artist Asela Hopkins and Snowflake 1. Tomorrow will bring a new attempt at photographing this card a wee bit better. Blogger has been an issue lately with photo size?!

Wishing you safe travels this Christmas whether it's finishing up some of your shopping, attending Christmas functions or taking to the friendly skies or driving to be with loved ones.

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms November 2007 SOTM.

Cardstock - Stampin' Up! Soft Sky, Blue Bayou and Vellum. BasicGrey Designer Fruitcake.

Ink - Versafine Onyx Black, Brilliance Platinum Planet (snowflake 1 on vellum) and Stampin' Up! Blue Bayou.

Embellishments - Sakura Glaze Black Pen (snowmans eyes/buttons), Marvy Uchida Puffy Velvet Fabric Marker (snow), Creative Impressions Snowflake Brad, A Muse Creative Candy Mini Star Gems and Stampin' Up! Blue Bayou Double Stitched Grosgrain.

Other - Paper Piercer, Stampin' Up! Ticket Punch and Oval Punch and Provo Craft Decorative Edgers.

Technique - Direct to Paper and Paper Piecing.

IDEAS - Use your sentiment or verse as your tag on a gift bag greeting card. Accentuate an i with an embellishment or punched piece that pertains to the holiday or occasion.

Use designer or paper stamped with images for paper piecing technique.
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Honor Our Veteran's...

2007-11-12T20:41:00.000-05:00

Today marked the official Veteran's Day holiday for New Hampshire.

Feeling the need to show my support, patriotism and remembrance... I chose to create a card honoring our soldiers.

"Our freedom has been purchased at the price of our fallen soldiers."

What did you do with your "freedom" today?

Halloween Or Harvest...

2007-11-10T06:23:00.001-05:00

Better late, than never...

October came with an invitation to join a few other stamper's in a private HALLOWEEN card swap. A card wouldn't "hold" a couple of $pot stamps, ribbons, embellishments and chocolate that were personally picked around the holiday. My friend, Mare reminded me it was to be a "card" swap? I couldn't resist sharing all the neat things offered this year. Next thing I knew... Mare was purchasing a few goodies herself! *LOL - wink*

Cornish Heritage Farms is a Christian based company. However, CHF stamps are very adaptable through techniques, color combinations and embellishment choices for any holiday season. This "handbag" could go either way... Halloween or Harvest! *wink*

A close-up of the decorative closure provides the viewer with more details. Unfortunately a photograph doesn't do a card or project justice as viewing it in person.

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Petite Patterns Bckgrndr., Cheesecloth Bckgrndr., Montana Tree Bark Bckgrndr. & Kim Hughes Collection "Pretty Birds" Set

Cardstock - Lively Lavendar, Black, Foggy Gray, Sunny Yellow, Dirty Brown & Pumpkin Orange.

Ink - VersaMark, VersaFine Vintage Sepia, VersaFine Onyx Black & Pumpkin Orange (moon's edge).

Embellishments - Sakura Glaze Black Pen (owls eyes), Barbara Twombley's UltraFine Glitter (moon) & Scotch Brand Dimensional Tape.

Other - Marvy Uchida Giga Scalloped Oval & Mega Oval Punch, Paper Shapers "Whale of a Punch" Tree (branch), Martha Stewart's Scalloped Circle & McGill's 1/16" hole punch.

Technique - Direct to Paper, Paper Piecing, Watercolor with blender pen (owl image)

Thank-you for the invitation Tami Wood to swap with yourself, Kristina of BALANCE, Rhiannon of Rings Like A Bell & my good friend Mare of It's All About The Journey. Rhiannon was so kind and generous for sending me an Inkadinkado stamp. As a personal "thank-you" to Rhiannon I added her into MY swap. Hopefully everyone enjoys their Harvest Handbag with all it's little surprises.

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

Ornament Of Thanks...

2007-11-08T06:46:00.001-05:00

Unbelievable! I'm having a hard time "wrapping" my mind around the fact that in less than two weeks it will be Thanksgiving! If anyone has some extra time their willing to part with... I'm definitely in the market of purchasing some! *wink*

Yesterday was "family turkey day" at A.E.S. My husband, Dave and I joined our daughter at noon for a meal served by the administration.

As you may remember... Tuesday marked the day of Kim Hughes newest releases from Cornish Heritage Farms. After receiving "scripty words" and brainstorming. A glittery ornament with a "garland of thanks" was a way of adding a different spin on the average thank-you card. However, it wasn't a real hit...

1. Start with a card base no smaller than 4 1/4" X 4 1/4" folded. Using Sizzix's Circle #1 Die. Cut your cardstock with a slight fold within the die edge. Run the card through the Xyron and apply Barbara Twombley's glitter.

2. Punch a piece of silver shimmer cardstock using a 1 1/4" square punch. Round two edges with a corner rounder and adhere to the back of your card.

3. Create a template for your tree pieces. Trim, stamp with desired image and layer with dimesional tape or dots. Trunk can be achieved by either trimming or punching a smaller square. Sentiment was heat embossed using VersaMark with silver detail EP.

4. Accessories used were Queen & Co. "sprinkles" brads of turquoise and bright blue as Christmas ornaments. The star brad was used as the tree topper.

IDEAS - A hanger can be added so the recipient can use it as a decoration. My only concern was not wanting to "overdue" it! *wink*

Cut-out stamped and colored images as ornaments or brads that resemble candycanes, santa hats, reindeer, etc....

Easy Peazy... not to mention a fun twist as a "thank-you" for all those over the top gifts you receive this Christmas! If "time" allows... this will be our families thank-yous as well. THANK-YOU Kim for a truly wonderful set of sentiment stamps with many endless and fun possibilities!

There's mention of the possibility of some snowflurries here in New Hampshire today... hopefully they stay "south" of us! *wink* If your on stamping time... ENJOY!

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

Swizzle On Over...

2007-11-06T05:18:00.001-05:00

It's a "Tini-release" of six new sets from Kim Hughes Collection being revealed at Cornish Heritage Farms as of today!

As if you hadn't already surmised... the sentiment FRIENDS was a focal point to this design. Ever searching for a new twist for incorporating a sentiment or idea to my designs... the "swizzle" stick was my inspiration! *wink* Swizzle sticks were originally used as advertisement for airlines, restaurants, lodging... so what better way to advertise the CHF Collection of Kim Hughes "Scripty Words." Today's swizzle sticks are more of a fun novelty! Not being of the nature to indulge or consume many cocktails... the past week and a half has obviously had a "spirited" effect on me! *LOL*

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms KiM HuGhEs Collection "Scripty Words", Petite Pattern Bckgrndr & Paisley Bckgrndr.
Cardstock - Vellum, Teal, Olive, Coral & Blush.
Ink - VersaFine Vintage Sepia & VersaMark.
Embellishments - Hero Arts Teal Gemstones, Clear EP Detail & Dimensional Tape.
Other - Paper Shapers Flower Paper Punch, Paper Piercer & Paper Distresser.

It's a rather bleak Tuesday weather wise here in New Hampshire. Happy Stamping if your fortunate to slip some in today!

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

Cake Of Wishes...

2007-10-23T18:28:00.001-05:00

Sorry to be away so long my friends...

This weekend allowed me time to put stamp to paper. I found myself whipping up the batter for an extra tall "cake of wishes" of the non-caloric kind with KiM HuGhEs "Cute Curls." This set is so versatile... not to mention ONE of my favorites! *wink* When I ever opened the package containing this set... visions of cake was just one of many creations I set forth to brainstorm on paper.

Yesterday afternoon's trip to the post office was uneventful... until I came across the "yellow sign for a package" within the rest of the gar-ba-ge! You guessed it... new releases for Cornish Heritage Farms. Alright, you twist my arm... a "second release" of six new sets! I'm already conjuring creations in my mind. *wink*

Keri of Pink Lemonade is the sweetest... for many reasons, however Keri has been applying my watermark to my card creations until recently. I must say though... the realization I could and need to shrink it down a bit more has set in! *wink*

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms KiM HuGhEs Collection "Cute Curls" (KH-5003FUM). Cardstock - Brown Bazzill, Rose Romance, Pretty In Pink, Vanilla Creme. Ink - VersaFine Vintage Sepia, Creamy Caramel, Certainly Celery, Summer Sun, Rose Romance & Pumpkin Pie. Embellishments - DoodleBug Teddybear Brads, A MUSE Micro Mini Bling, Certainly Celery 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon. Other - SU! Ticket Corner Paper Punch, Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Folder "D'vine Swirl", SU! Paper Piercer & Paper Distresser.

Tomorrow's another day and with it will be another weekend creation for your viewing pleasure.
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Sanborn Snowy Family...

2007-10-15T05:11:00.002-05:00

One can't thumb through a paper crafts magazine these days and not notice the use of non-traditional Christmas color combinations being used within ads for stamping related products.

A prime example is the design and color combination used in creating this "snowy family" sample for Cornish Heritage Farms newly released Asela 2007 Christmas images recently. Asela's images are a favorite of mine... they lend themselves nicely to anyone's style of creating, not to mention a variety of uses.

In a hurry... how could you guess! *wink* However... not in such a hurry I could resist my newly acquired Spellbinders Nestabilities used in this card design. So far... they are incredible, HOWEVER I need a wee bit more "play time" before I can truly critique these wee gems! *LOL*

TIP - Notice the "puffy" white snow on my card? This was achieved using a Marvy Uchida Puffy Velvet Fabric Marker purchased from my lss. While I love the look... it's impractical when used on a card to be mailed or even ATC's as it doesn't ship well. Things arrive with the snow flattened and clumped together! While it can be seperated leaving a bit of residule. I'm wondering if it can be rejuvenated using an embossing gun gently over it once again... I'll let you know. *wink*

List of Supplies...

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Petite Pattern, Asela's Unmounted Snowman Family & From Our Little Family Sentiment. Cardstock - Prism Intense Kiwi (G381-D), Prism Frosted Pink (P052-D) & Daisy Bucket Designs Wrapped Wishes "Mistletoe Kisses." Ink - Versafine Onyx Black & VersaMark. Embellishments - A Muse Pink Heart Bling (Mrs. S apron), A Muse Mini Dot Bling (berries), Sakura Black Glaze Pen & Marvy Uchida Puffy Velvet Fabric Marker (snow). Other - Spellbinders Nestabilities Classic Scallop Oval Lg.

Yesterday left New Hampshire with a tease of Indian Summer... Today is suppose to boast even nicer weather. I so wish I could take advantage of the seasons last bit of Indian Summer, however... there's places to go and people to see... to stop and take it all in! I guess I'll just have to settle for rolling the car windows down today! *wink*

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

Penguin Presents...

2007-10-12T05:31:00.001-05:00

Asela's 2007 Christmas Images have officially been released and are available for purchase at Cornish Heritage Farms as of right now... TODAY!

The Fresh Face Design Team have been busy lil' elfs designing some incredible "eye candy" for your viewing pleasure in the CHF Gallery.

Not much... just a wee bit of enabling happening here... see Asela's reindeer, tree, snowman (only one of several)... not to mention some incredible sentiments to accompany them all!

What are you waiting for... it's never to early to start your Christmas shopping! Yes, in deedee... I heard you mumbling the need for some new images for this years "Christmas Cards?" *wink* I have a "wish list" of my own to create! If you can't be enticed with Asela's new releases... might I indulge you in a few of the soon to be RELEASED Thomas KinKade's over at Cornish Heritage Farms this morning?! *wink*

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Petite Pattern & Asela's Penguin Hat. Cardstock - Soft Sky, White Confetti & BasicGrey Fruitcake Dbl. Sided Designer Paper. Ink - VersaFine Onyx Black & VersaMark. Embellishments - K & Co. Pearl Accents, Marvy Uchida Puffy Paint Pen & Sakura Black Glaze Pen. Other - Paper Shapers Square Paper Punch & Carl Snowflake Paper Punch.

NOTE - majority of embellishments & others were purchased at Stamping Memories.
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Autumn Window...

2007-10-10T04:45:00.001-05:00

Hopefully everyone enjoyed an extended Columbus Day weekend? Ours was busy and fun filled with apple picking, a neighborhood barbeque... not to mention a traditional day at Sandwich Fair. Dave and I have been attending the Sandwich Fair since our courtship... over twenty years now.

Since the release of KiM HuGhEs Collection over at Cornish Heritage Farms... The Cute Curls set is so diverse and fun to work with... I can't step away! *wink* I became so engrossed in sketching and writing down ideas for MORE cards to create with this set... I forgot to start creating with my other soon to be released stamps by Cornish Heritage Farms! OY!

In recognition of World Cardmaking Day Weekend, design team coordinator, Lisa Strahl extended an invitation to all of the CHF Fresh Face designers to play along. So here you have it... a SECOND version of the first version! *wink* I say this... because after making version number one, comes critiquing all that's bother some and in need of change for the acceptable version posted. *LOL* What made it acceptable? The addition of paper piercing (frames and carries the eye), stamping the CHF Weave Bckgrndr. in a caramel color (added pop) dimensionals to the scalloped frame and stippled pumpkin with leaves creating a vinette with visual interest outside the shaker card window.

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Petite Pattern Backgrounder, Weave Backgrounder & KiM HuGhEs Collection Cute Curls. Cardstock - Dirty Brown, Terra Cotta, Olive Green, Sand, White & Acrylic window sheets. Ink - VersaFine Vintage Sepia, VersaMark, ColorBox CHALK Olive Pastel & Caramel. Embellishments - Pumpkin Brads. Other - Fiskars Mini & Small Maple Leaf, 1/4" hole punch, Punch Bunch Small Pumpkin, Scalloped Oval, Large Oval Paper Punches, Paper Piercer & Paper Distresser.

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

The KiM HuGhEs Collection...

2007-10-04T18:51:00.003-05:00

There here... Not to mention available for purchase over at the NEW and improved Cornish Heritage Farms website as of today!

CONGRATULATIONS Marcia Polk on winning ALL seven sets of the newly released KiM HuGhEs Collection! One can read more about it on the CHF Blog. A round of applause for Keri Sereika of Pink Lemonade for coordinating an incredibly FUN-tabulous CHF Treasure Hunt!

For your viewing pleasure... Our tour through KiM's newly released collection will begin with...

There you be! Don't worry... this won't be the last we see of Kim! *wink* It's only October, HOWEVER it feels allot like Christmas! Be happy... tomorrow will bring a new post sharing some more CHF creations. Now to do a little shopping at Cornish Heritage Farms...

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

A Hunting YOU Shall Go...

2007-10-02T04:37:00.001-05:00

A 21st Century Style Treasure Hunt that starts ---> here! You'll definitely want to join in... let's just say that Cornish Heritage Farms is offering a king's ransom to the lucky winner... not to mention some incredible give-aways in route! *see me bouncin'* Now off with you... *wink*

I so wish I could share my new CHF rubbah arrivals with you, however mum says I'm not allowed! At least not right away! *see Liz waving her finger back and forth - wink* As soon as I pulled out my Cute Curls set by CHF's newest illustrator KiM HuGhEs... I was bouncin' with the idea of a Partridge In A Pear Tree. Be sure to return for more visuals I'm currently creating with Cute Curls. *wink*

Not wanting to create another card, but a practical alternative... I came up with the "mini composition" notebook. It lends itself nicely for keeping the necessary list of ideas, notes or even addresses of those on your Christmas shopping list right at your fingertips... not to mention, it's convenient size for your already well stocked purse. *wink*

List of Supplies:

Stamps - CHF Petite Patterns Bckgrndr, Weave Backgrndr, Cute Curls from The KiM HuGhEs Collection. Cardstock - Balsam, Pomegranate & Vanilla Creme. Ink - VersaMark, Apple Green, Olive Green, Dirty Brown, Caramel, Butter Yellow, Mustard Yellow & Tsukineko "Gold" Encore Metallic. Embellishments - Dimensional tape & Red Line tape. Other - Scallop Rectangle Punch & Paper piercer
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Frilly Ferns...

2007-09-29T04:57:00.001-05:00

Ch-ch-CHANGES are happening over at Cornish Heritage Farms! For instance... CHF is offering a NEW Online Referral Program! Keep informed upto the minute on the latest... like CHF's FUN FILLED TUESDAY starting tomorrow over at the CHF Blog! *wink*

Are you familiar with the name KiM HuGhEs? *shock* All of us at Cornish Heritage Farms are honored and privileged to be working with the lovely and VERY talented Designer & Artist KiM HuGhEs. The November issue of Paper Crafts magazine features Kim's "Happy Holidays" creation on page 51 if you'd like to familiarize yourselves with KiM's design work. *wink*

This "sneak peak" is brought to you by way of a set called "Cute Curls" (KH-5003FUM) from The KiM HuGhEs Collection that's soon to be released at Cornish Heritage Farms! *wink* I must say... you'll find it hard paring down the list of must haves once you've seen KiMs collection! I'm in definite "bounce" mode with all the EXCITING changes and new rubbah releases coming up... Asela's scheduled for some new releases that will definitely knock your Christmas socks off! *wink*

List of Supplies:

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Petite Pattern Backgrounder, KiM HuGhEs Collection "Cute Curls" (KH-5003FUM). Cardstock - Dirty Brown, Terra Cotta, Olive Green and Vanilla Creme. Ink - VersaFine Vintage Sepia, VersaMark, Apple Green, Olive Green & Caramel. Embellishments - Gold Bling. Other - Marvy Uchida Giga Scallop Square Punch, Paper Shapers 1 1/4" Punch and Heidi Swapp Distresser.

Be sure to return TUESDAY... that's tomorrow, for a FUN FILLED "Adventure" CHF style! You too will be bouncin'! *wink* If you snooze... you'll definitely lose! *Cheshire cat grin* I'm off to prepare...

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

Inspiration...

2007-09-22T06:07:00.001-05:00

After receiving Cornish Heritage Farms Scalloped Lace backgrounder and the brainstorming process worked through... An idea was hatched for a scalloped lace window treatment accompanied by Asela's Standing Swirly Bird! *wink*

Inspiration didn't stop there... I found myself looking at MANY window treatments driving to and from work that day! After sorting through many visuals and why this or that wouldn't work out on paper... A design decision combining the weave backgrounder lent a weathered finish to my window frame, thus becoming my focal point. Adding Asela's "A Little Birdie Told Me..." sentiment to the top of my creation lent the proper balance. Did I achieve what I set forth to accomplish? *wink* Will this be the last of my window treatment creations? Certainly not...

Last week was a busy one, however this week is certainly no different! *wink* I'm busily working on the completion of three ATC swaps, not to mention a Halloween swap deadline looming before me. The majority due this week! Am I nuts... These were commitments entered into prior to becoming a design team member for Cornish Heritage Farms, which I feel strongly about keeping. I enjoy swapping with other stampers and the friendships they've brought me, however my focus will be on my commitment to Cornish Heritage Farms and my blog until I find a proper balance. *smile* So stay tuned for the reveal of my swaps, not to mention my CHF creations.

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

Scalloped Lace Bride...

2007-09-20T05:25:00.001-05:00

Cornish Heritage Farms NEW Fall Backgrounders are available for purchase! Lisa out did herself on these EIGHT incredible

backgrounder designs. *wink* I encourage you to go over to Cornish Heritage Farms Gallery to sneak a peek at what the rest of the CHF Dream Team has been up to... I'm off to make adjustments to my must have list of these new backgrounders! A major downfall of mine...

When faced with rubbah that doesn't speak to me... I like to "brainstorm" verbally outloud or on paper my rubbah challenge. Brainstorming is a term my English Lit teacher, Mr. Lyman drilled into us when writing our English papers during my high school days. This is precisely what I did when faced with the CHF Scalloped Lace Backgrounder. The lace reminded me of a pair of my grandmother's curtains from my childhood, lingerie, weddings, babies, bloomers... you get the idea. After verbally bouncing these words off my CHF Design Team member, Mary. Mary inquired of my extensive collection of punches?! Then reminded me of an EK Success Paper Shapers Dress Punch (since mentioning my lack of drawing ability) at Stamping Memories. Liz & Bette... as always set the punch aside. *wink* The lesson to be learned is the rubbah you detest today, you'll not part with tomorrow... *Cheshire grin*

Currently, my collection of Cornish Heritage Farms images is limited and wanting to stay in the parameters of using as many CHF stamps within my designs really lends to some out of the box stamping. Okay... I can't seem to put the Scalloped Lace Backgrounder down! *LOL*

Tomorrow promises another one of my designs for your viewing pleasure. However, you can view the Cheesecloth, Cracked Montana Earth, Gingham, Montana Tree Bark, Petite Pattern, Scalloped Lace, Tulle & last, but not least... Wood Grain Backgrounders. If your looking to expand your collection of backgrounders more than one or two per shopping spree? How about Cornish Heritage Farms high quality "unmounted" backgrounders for our space conscious stampers at a FAN-tastic savings found within FOUR PAGES of incredible Backgrounders starting HERE?!

Supplies: Stamps - CHF Scalloped Lace Bckgrndr & CHF Weave Bckgrndr. Cardstock - Black, Black Velvet & Vellum. Ink - Tsukineko Opaque Cotton White StazOn Accessories - Marvy Uchida Giga Scalloped Oval, Paper Shapers Dress, White Silk Ribbon & K & Co. White Pearl.

Today bestowed us the most incredible day of "Indian Summer!" Way too nice to be inside... Tomorrow I'm off to Capital City for a wee bit of birthday shopping for my DH. My parents are celebrating their "40th" wedding anniversary the day after my DH's Cake N' Candle day. Sophie put in her two cents worth on the perfect gift for her Mimi and Bumpie during dinner one evening... thank goodness I didn't choke on dinner! Our plans for taking DH and my parents out to dinner to celebrate didn't materialize. My poor Mum is feeling under the weather with a combination of allergies and a cold. *sad face* Feel better soon...

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

CHF Has A Tweet For You...

2007-09-17T04:30:00.000-05:00

If you don't already know...

Asela's images definitely have a way of casting their spell! *wink* Don't be a bird brain... fly over to Cornish Heritage Farms to pluck a few of Asela's "swirly birdies" for your collection!

Backgrounders are definitely a key element to the majority of the cards I design... this one is no different! The CHF Weave Backgrounder was stamped using VersaMark ink on pumpkin orange cardstock. Then layered onto a sunny yellow card. The paper pieced border of purple, sunny yellow and pumpkin orange pieces uses CHF Paw Prints Backgrounder for a touch of whimsy! *wink*

Sentiments are essential to relay the message of our overall card design to the recipient. Always the ever practical... I tend to purchase "versatile" sentiments with clean lines that have eye appeal like Asela's "A Tweet For You." Eazy Peezie...

List of Supplies -

Stamps - Cornish Heritage Farms Asela "Nesting Swirly Bird," Weave Backgrounder, Paw Prints Backgrounder and Asela's "A Tweet For You" sentiment. Cardstock - Sunny Yellow, Pumpkin Orange, Purple, Black and White. Ink - Tsukineko VersaFine Onyx Black and VersaMark. Embellishments - black brad, orange brads and dimensional tape.

This coming Thursday Cornish Heritage Farms will be unveiling NINE new images of great proportion... stay tuned for a teenie weenie sneak peak tomorrow! *wink*

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

Final Share...

2007-09-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

Of my CHF Design Team Submissions, that is... *wink*

It's been rather busy over at Cornish Heritage Farms these days, not allowing Lisa a spare moment to continue with her Dreams of Designing Series. *sad face* This would be like having your favorite television show end in suspense the week prior only to have it postponed the next week for a Special Report with the President?! *bulging eyeballs* Say What!

Never having served on a design team before... I had no understanding of the process in which the panel may be critiquing the designs of a designer for their company? Being practical and a bit analytical... I took the time of year and different occasions into consideration when submitting my designs.

The photography used for my submissions wasn't rocket science. It doesn't require having the finest equipment, however you should always invest in a mid-range camera at the time of purchase if your pocketbook allows. Using two sheets of 12 X 12 Bazzill scrapbook paper and a bit of natural lightening (non-direct sun, whenever possible) is the best and inexpensive resource I've found. However, winter's coming! *wink*

When in doubt use "common sense" whenever possible. It's not failed me yet... Be sure to stop by this week for "sneak peeks" of some Cornish Heritage Farms NEW RELEASES I've been working on! *Cheshire smile* Sshhh... it's a secret you'll want to spread around to your friends! Their blog watching and lip reading... Sshhh... *wink*

Enabling... aw... maybe a smidge, but only if you go here, here and here or even here to see what few of my fellow design team members are creating for your viewing pleasure! No favorites, no sequential order and you can be sure I'll be sharing more of my other CHF Sistahs designs with all of you! *wink*
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Sitting On The Fence...

2007-09-09T05:04:00.001-05:00

Do I, don't I... share this with all of you?! Why not! So here's another of my CHF submissions.

The reason for mentioning this is Lisa Strahl of Mona Lisa Moments is writing a series of posts called Dreams of Designing. If you're looking to work as a designer for a rubber stamp company... then you WON'T want to miss her incredible insight she's offering everyone! Even at my age of thirty-nine years (young), I'm eager to learn more! *wink* Looking forward to Lisa critiquing my submissions for better insight as well! So be gentle with me... *wink*

Lisa's second post in this series is Thinking Outside the Box ! After seeing Lisa's and Dawn's jaw dropping creations... it's a wonder how I was ever chosen for this team?! If there's one thing I've learned, it's listen, absorb and draw from those around you. The day we stop learning, is the day we stop living!

After you've finished visiting Lisa's blog, why not take a look at Cornish Heritage Farms rubber images and let me know a few of your favorites?! I'm making my list and checking it twice... *wink* If your interested in all the dirt going on behind the scenes, then you won't want to miss the Cornish Heritage Farms Public Forum for announcements, techniques, swaps, etc... Enjoy! *wink*

Well, it's been real and it's been fun... Now I must work on four swap deadlines looming before me all prior to becoming a design team member! *deer caught in headlamps moment* So when you find I'm NOT posting... I'll be stamping creations to post! *wink*

Supplies List: Old Olive, Close to Cocoa and ivory cardstock, VersaMark, Ruby Red, More Mustard, Really Rust and Chocolate Chip ink, SU! Fine Lace, Houndstooth and Linen background stamps, PSX "Bountiful Thanksgiving" image (retired) and single falling leaf, Accessories: Brown brads and May Arts stitched olive ribbon.

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

CHF Handbag...

2007-09-06T04:53:00.000-05:00

This morning's post comes by way of NOT enough coffee and too little sleep!

THANK-YOU everyone for your sincere and touching well wishes you've posted or e-mailed me! I assure ALL of you... I'm still just lil' ole me... your friend, Anne!

There's been some inquiry as to my Cornish Heritage Farm submissions that bestowed me the blessing of being able to not only work with my friend Mare, but eight other woman of great talent. *wink* A list of the design team is provided to the right... keep scrolling... now "click" and go! *wink* They're all AWES-bomb!

As some of you may know... All participants were to submit three cards and one 3-D project! Well... this is my CHF Hand"bag" or rather a purse I submitted as my 3-D project. *wink* Not knowing what the panel would be looking for... I based my submissions on what I enjoy working with or love... BIRDS are a favorite of mine!

Look for another one of my submissions I'll share with you tomorrow. Now it's time to change my hat's for the day... *wink*

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

2007-09-05T19:12:00.002-05:00

There's a ScrapFest at the Mall Of America sponsored by Archiver's starting Friday; September 7th, 8th and 9th!

If your attending be sure go by the Hero Arts booth to see my talented friends Tami Wood and Kristina Lewis of BALANCE and say hello! Knowing Tami your in for some incredible make n' takes! *wink* Taylor of Taylored Expressions will be working the Stampendous booth. You'll be in for a treat!

If your a serious stamper?! You WON'T want to miss all of the excitement! To learn more about the scheduled events go -----> HERE! Certainly wish I lived closer... *wink* If you can't attend then be sure to visit my friend Kristina of BALANCE where you'll be able to attend virtually! *wink*

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

Someone Pinch Me...

2007-09-04T19:25:00.002-05:00

Definitely ME!
<-----

Around 9:26 EST last night the phone rings?! Dave say's "Who in the world could be calling at this hour?" I don't know, fumbling for the phone to check the caller id... UNKNOWN? Don't those telemarketers know the blessed time zone their calling?! I NEVER answer UNKNOWN, however I did last night...

GOOD THING! It was Liz Pomeroy of Cornish Heritage Farms congratulating me on becoming one of ten, new Fresh Face Design Team Members! OMGosh, really?! I can't believe it. Your kidding... goodness only knows what else I had to say! I do remember telling Liz that I was the "crazy NH girl!" Honest to goodness, I couldn't help myself... it just slipped out! *rolling eyes at self* If first impressions count for anything I beg of you Liz to give me another chance. *wink* Lisa Strahl had a similar experience this afternoon.

Thank-you Richard, Liz and Lisa for this wonderful opportunity you've bestowed me. What an honor to be able to work with so many talented designers.

Congratulations to the other nine members chosen in this design team call. I'm looking forward to getting to know and work with all of you.

Lesley Langdon - ON, Canada
Alli Miles - BC, Canada
Linda Abadie - South Korea
Amanda McIlhatton - N. Ireland
Lisa Silver - MO, USA
Kristine Reynolds - CA, USA
Mary Anderson - NH, USA
Dawn Lusk - OH, USA
Lori Craig - MO, USA

For everyone who submitted their work for consideration and weren't chosen, please read Lisa's special post. Very touching and so true. So don't be discouraged or take it personally, most of all... don't give up on your dream! Dreams can come true... ten just did!
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

A WiNgDoOdLe Day...

2007-09-03T06:23:00.000-05:00

Yes... you read correctly... WiNgDoOdLe! *wink*

Many moons ago, I remembered reading in a back issue of the magazine The Rubber Stamper an advertisement for a rubber stamp store located in Warner, NH called WingDoodle. During our family vacation we decided to visit the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum located in Warner, NH. Well, honey, if we're going to be in that area... couldn't we take a teenie weenie side trip?! *wink*

After visiting this quaint lil' stamp store... I gave my friend, Mare a ringy-dingy about BEEZ ink being a local stamp company here New Hampshire. Well, after checking our calendars... We both decided on Saturday; September 15th for a road trip to WingDoodle. Let's just say my partner in crime couldn't seem to wait that long! *wink*

After picking Mare up at our usual rendezvous point... Our trip up I89 was uneventful given that it's Hopkinton Fair and all the area colleges starting classes after Labor Day. We had a g-o-r-g-e-o-u-s afternoon for traveling.

Upon our arrival to WingDoodle, we were warmly greeted by Chris, the store manager and Kay, the store proprietor. Chris and Kay were so kind with helping to familiarize us with products they carried, not to mention chit-chatting as if Mare and I were old friends. *sending Chris and Kay a big hello* Sandy, Kay's daughter is the creative director for BEEZ ink rubber stamps. However, Sandy was away on a family vacation. I so hope to meet Sandy on my next adventure to Warner. *wink*

Wingdoodle carries a wonderful variety of stamps like Anachronistic Castle, Claudia Rose, Eat Cake, Penny Black, Rubber Soul, Stampotique not to mention home to BEEZ ink! Never mind a slue of supplies for polymer clay enthusiats, altered art, punch art... you name it and they carry it! *wink*

I think you get the "picture!" *wink* The front of the store is dedicated to wonderful, fun and whimsical gifts you'd be hardpressed to find anywhere else; for your children or youngsters at heart! When in the area of Warner, NH... it's a definite MUST on your list of to-do's! The quaint little town of Warner definitely boasts a day of fun between the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, New Hampshire Telephone Museum , wonderful old architecture and sites I may have missed along the way! *wink* Our families already planning our next trip to Warner for the telephone museum tour and a wee bit of lunch!

Between my first visit a week ago and our visit this weekend. I learned Mare had been in contact with Sandy of BEEZ ink regarding becoming a design team member. Sandy offered to ship Mare some rubber for designing card samples along with a dt position... Mare's going to be rolling in the rubbah!!! *wink* Wishing you all the best in your new venture my friend. *hugs*

Upon your arrival... til' your departure from the little town of Warner, New Hampshire... this is how you'll appear to others after your visit to WiNgDoOdLe'S! *LOL (Photo below)*

I look forward to sharing something stamped with you tomorrow.

Today our family is off to the Hopkinton Fair for the last bit of fun summer has to offer! Enjoy a safe Labor Day with your families.

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

2007-09-02T11:33:00.000-05:00

September

Cardmaker's Calendar

3rd Labor Day

A great day for a barbecue! Invite friends with

a hand-stamped invitation. A game of friendly football to

celebrate the first football game played on this day in 1895.

Origin of Labor Day History.

8th Literacy Day

Create a stamped bookmark for your children as a reward

for each book they finish reading. Give the first bookmark on

Literacy Day, and see how many they can collect by the

end of December!

9th Grandparents Day

Great occasion for children to send their "first day of school"

photo in a hand-stamped frame to doting

grandparents!

13th Chocolate Day

Stamp a new candy bar wrapper and give a

friend a sweet treat who needs it!

23rd First Day Of Autumn

Share the joy of the changing seasons with

those you love. A stamped creation with autumn

earth tones and a special message!

28th Good Neighbor Day

There are many ways to be a good neighbor-offering help

when it's needed, extending an invite or performing

a random act of kindness. Try baking a dessert

and stamping a card with the recipe!

Fond Memories of yesteryears.

Ideas from INKAnews

Spida Yo-Yo...

2007-08-30T11:30:00.000-05:00

Eek would be right...

School's back in session. The vacation is winding down and reality starts to set in that it's back to the real world on Monday with a full work schedule! *deer caught in headlamps look*

During our vacation I found this "stinkin' cute" little girl with her spida yo-yo stamp! Did you truly think I would leave her behind? Not on your life! *wink* On a previous trip to Stamping Memories I spied the Making Memories Halloween 12 X 12 Flocked Spida paper, HOWEVER it was in a kit?! Bouncin' about the paper... Oh, Liz... I NEED this paper by the sheet?! Liz, being the sweetheart she is, found and ordered the paper for me. *Cheshire cat* The paper never made it onto the rack between my friend, Mare and me. Knowing Liz... it's already been re-ordered! *wink* The "spida yo-yo" was glitzed using a Gelly Roll Stardust Clear pen and black brad for the body. The little girl's dress was stamped using SU! Lovely Lilac classic ink and edged with VersaFine Black Onyx. A Making Memories Halloween Pebbles Brad "Eek" was added to her dress. Experiencing mixed emotions on my choice of using the SU! Slot Punch (slot too large) and ribbon?! I'm thinking it wasn't a good choice when all was said and done in the end! *sad face* As my friend Asela of Hop Art Studios says, "YUCK!" Can't post just the good ones... we all have "what was I thinking" moments with design choices. *LOL*

This post comes to you later than intended due to a severe thunderstorm we were experiencing in this part of New Hampshire last night... While trying to wait out the storm, so I could finish my post... I fell asleep! What can I say?! Our couch was calling my name, while the throw... literally threw itself onto me! *wink*

It's dark and dreary... I think I'll meander along with my cuppa to do a little stamping before my cherub wakes. Be sure to come back now... NOT to mention SCROLL down, as I just might have more than one post of sharing! *wink* Enjoy a safe Labor Day weekend with your family!

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

Supplies used from Stamping Memories, unless otherwise stated.

Bloggyland Announcements...

2007-08-23T05:23:00.000-05:00

There's a "Rubber Rummage Sale" going on ------> HERE! My friend, Mary of It's All About The Journey has some Stampin' Up! RETIRED sets to sell for a whale of a deal! There's going to be NEW ADDITIONS added to her rubber rummage sale soon! H-U-R-R-Y they won't hang around long! *wink*

Photographed is blog candy being offered by Lisa of Blessed A Latte' ---> HERE!

Simply post a comment to Lisa's "blog candy" post to qualify for a single chance at winning her blog candy, HOWEVER... mention Lisa's blog candy give-away on your blog to qualify for a second chance to win! Two chances are better than one! *wink*

You only have until Sunday; August 26th 9PM PST... so set your clocks!

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

Batty For You...

2007-08-19T18:08:00.000-05:00

My friend Gail of A Dragonfly Garden declared this week "Animal Week" on her blog. Gail invited all of Bloggyland to play along. Thankfully, I made it just by the skin of my teeth to participate in the fun... the very last day! *wink*

Can you say... BAT-tastic, precisely how I'm feeling about my new Martha Stewart bat paper punch! Color combinations of SU! Going Gray, Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Lovely Lilac and Marigold Morning cardstock were decided for this cards design. My friend, Tami enabled my purchase of the Martha Stewart one inch scallop punch. *Cheshire grin* Background stamps are some of my favorite stamps to collect due to their versatility... The SU! Fine Lace was used to texture my bats and SU! Leafy Glade to mimick the tree tops with Karen Foster Snap-Stamps for the sentiment. This was one of many delish ribbons I purchased on our trip to The Paper Tree in Amoskeag City to meet our friend Tami.

*Edited 08-21-07 - Clouds were created using SU! Cloud Stencil and "fat" stencil brush tapped in VersaFine Onyx Black ink. Be sure to stipple on scrap paper prior to stippling your clouds on your "finished" project. Unfortunately, SU! didn't promote this item well enough to generate interest and has since been RETIRED... *sad face* Thank-you for all the kind posts and e-mails. *smile*

My family and I will be on vacation this week, HOWEVER... I plan to work in some stamping to share with you where I can. Hope your week's off to a wonderful beginning!
I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

ATC Recruits Needed...

2007-08-16T06:31:00.000-05:00

Christmas ATC Swap CLOSED!!!!

Looking for a few good stamper's to recruit for a Christmas ATC Swap I'm hosting...

Any volunteers willing to sign-up or do we need to draft you stampers?! *wink*

You will receive back 10 to 12 ATC's... one of these being your own. I encourage all participants to make a dozen ATC's to safely ensure upwards, but not to exceed twelve members participating in our swap. *wink*

ATC requirements:

1. Size: 2 1/2 X 3 1/2 inches with two or more layers.

2. Embellishments: no less than one and upwards of three.
(ex: ribbon, rhinestone, eyelets, clips, etc...) If using "torn" paper as an embellishment... You will be required to use an additional embellishment.

3. Stamps: ANY rubber stamp vendor, but Christmas related.

4. Please sign and number each of your ATC's. Adding a blog or dating (optional), however not required.

Mail requirements:

1. Print or write out a label with your full name, Christmas ATC swap and qty. enclosed. Affix label using a clear packaging tape to a sandwich sized Ziploc baggie. This will protect your ATC's from the elements.

2. Clearly label a regular manilla or bubbled mailer with your own mailing address as the recipient and my address (provided in a private e-mail once you've joined) as the sender. When adding postage to your package DO NOT use any metered strips... only regular postage stamps adhered to your mailer please. My postal carrier ALWAYS weighs my baggie of ATC's and return mailer, giving me a postage price and then ADDS the stamps to the mailer for me. *wink*

3. Absolute Deadline: All ATC's will need to be mailed by or on Tuesday; September 18th, 2007 in order for myself to receive them timely, swap and resend to all of you by no later than Tuesday; October 2nd, 2007. I must request that if you can not full fill this part of the obligation, then you might want to reconsider your commitment.

Resources: You can find an easy step-by-step tutorial ------> HERE... questions or concerns e-mail me (under contact) -------> HERE... or view examples (including my first) -----> HERE...

To join this swap, you must send me an e-mail (view my complete profile... click and to the left under contact). As confirmation that I received your e-mail, you will see your name listed below and I will e-mail you back with my address. I hope I covered everything! Let me know if you have any questions!

Group 1 Participants:

1. Anne Sanborn

2. Bette Moreau - Received 8/27

3. Mary Anderson

4. Elizabeth Royalty

5. Harriet Skelly

6. Tami Wood

7. Asela Hopkins - Received 9/10

8. Kristina Lewis - Received 9/14

9. Lynette Neus - Received 8/27

10. Rhiannon Christianson

11. Emily Montenaro - Received 9/6

12. Dana Seymour

Group 2 Participants:

1. Anne Sanborn

2. Lisa Banks

3. Michelle Buschur - Received 9/14

4. Angela Dasner - Received 9/15

5. Kristina Lewis - Received 9/14

6. Rhiannon Christianson

7. Sarah Bertolino

8. Cheri Mosgrove - Received 8/27

9. Kimberly Gajewski

10. Allison Filo - Received 9/6

11. Lynette Neus - Received 8/27

12. Tracy Clemente - Received 9/15

13. Bette Moreau - Received 8/27

Hurry... not many spaces left and we wouldn't want you to miss out on all the fun! If I don't here from you... you might just be receiving a draft notice via e-mail requesting your participation, so hop-to-it and sign-up!!! *wink*

It doesn't get any easier than this! DO NOT feel inadequate or decide against participating due to names posted. ALL of these incredibly wonderful ladies would agree that we've experienced many firsts, will and still do... so if this is your first time making an ATC... you go girl! *wink*

*Edited 08-16-07- Group 1 has been filled! *flabbergasted, speechless, overwhelmed* HOWEVER due to the overwhelming response... a Group 2 has been added, so h-u-r-r-y to get in on the fun! There will be no more groups added! *wink* I just couldn't bear to write the Dear, John letters! *smile*

**Edited 08-17-07- Sarah Bertolino of Suki's blog has just been added to Group 2. If my blogging friends wouldn't mind mentioning our Christmas ATC swap within a new post... it'd be much appreciated... we need FIVE more wonderful ladies!

***Edited 08-18-07 - Cheri Mosgrove and Kimberly Gajewski have both been added to Group 2 as of this evening. This will be Cheri's "first" ATC and I'm so honored that we're going to be the lucky recipients! *wink* Kimberly's from New England?! ONLY THREE more spaces... Do I hear_____ going once, going twice... sold to_____?! *wink* Hope to share something stamped tomorrow!

****Edited 08-18-07- Allison Filo of Stampin When I Can from Calgary, Alberta, CANADA is on board our Christmas ATC fun-ship... Welcome my friend! ONLY ONE more spaces... Will anyone be hollering B-I-N-G-O!

*****Edited 08-19-07- Tracy Clemente of Eat, Sleep, Stamp has joined in all our fun... so S-T-A-R-T your ATC's ladies and keep your eyes on the checkered flag! *wink*

*Edited 08-29-07 - Bette, Cheri & Lynette's wonderful "I Kandi" arrived Monday for our Christmas ATC Swap! I debated... HOWEVER, did you really think I'd hold out on NOT PEEKING?! Hello... *LOL*

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

Recruitment poster of "Rosie the Riveter" from the 1940's.

Muffin Anyone?!...

2007-08-13T05:32:00.002-05:00

No time to stamp... *insert sad face*

Yesterday, was a day of household obligations. Stripping beds, laundry, baking... you get the idea! *wink*

While my muffins were baking... I was chit-chatting with my friend Gail of A Dragonfly Garden via internet. Another wonderful and talented soul with an awesome sense of humor! Since beginning this journey of mine blogging... I consider myself blessed to be able to converse and meet such wonderfully talented women, whether it be in person or over the internet. *a wave goes out to Gail* So glad to be "cookin' up" more than just muffins, but friendships as well here in Bloggyland! *wink*

Blueberry Muffins:

3/4 C. milk
1/2 C. veggie oil
1 egg
2 C. all-purpose or whole wheat flour
1/3 C. sugar
3 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
1 C. fresh blueberries or drained canned blueberries or 3/4 C. frozen blueberries, thawed and drained well.

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Grease bottoms of 12 medium muffin cups, 2 1/2 x 1 1/4 inches, or line with paper baking cups. Beat milk, oil and egg. Stir in flour, sugar, baking powder and salt, all at once, just until flour is moistened (batter will be lumpy). Fold in blueberries. Divide batter among muffin cups. Sprinkle with "raw" sugar if desired. Bake until golden brown, 18 to 20 minutes. Immediately remove from pan.

Serves: 12 muffins; 195 calories per muffin

Personal modifications: Double recipe above. Add at least 1/2 C. more blueberries. Fill cups right up to top. Turn oven down slightly by 25 degrees. Recipe is NOT sweet, so adjust your sugar if you desire a sweeter muffin... if not adding sugar to tops.

Recipe credit: Betty Crocker's Cookbook... personal modifications by A. Sanborn

You'll find the muffins on the counter next to a fresh carafe of coffee... won't you join me!

As always, I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

The Traveling Stampers...

2007-08-11T05:55:00.000-05:00

Where to begin...

Yesterday was an adventure of epic proportion! *wink* I found myself traveling down I-93 to meet my dear friend, Mare in Capital City... at our regular rendezvous point. It's here that we'd start on our latest adventure! Or what we refer to as a road trip! *wink*

It all began with Mare's involvement with the A*Muse A*Palooza! Leading her to be-friend Tami Wood of Minnesota, a certified A Muse instructor. Tami, a New Hampshire girl herself, would be coming home to visit and was interested in meeting Mare! Being the generous soul she is, Mare extended an invitation for me to join them. Besides... I generally serve as chauffer on our excursions. *can you say... lucky* A decision to meet at The Paper Tree was agreed by all.

Upon our arrival, *slightly ahead of schedule* we were greeted by The Paper Tree's proprietor, Michelle at the door! What a delight... so friendly, accommodating and joined in our excitement of all the "oohs and ahhs!" We agreed whole heartedly that we'd be making a return trip to see our new friend Michelle in the near future!

Tami arrived shortly with her wonderful mother, Ellie. Hugs of excitement were exchanged. It was as though we'd all known each other forever... We chit-chatted over shares of our work, exchange of more chit-chat and a make n' take prepared by Tami! Tami has incredible ideas and an abundance of talent... has definitely earned the recognition of being an A Muse design team member too?! It's all about the talent or lets say it should be... We think you rock babe!!!! *wink* If we'd only thought of it sooner... we'd have extended an invite to our friend Elizabeth of My Paper Trails to join us! *sorry... sad face* Know that you came-up in conversation while "oohing and ahhing" over your cyclist ATC babe (my fav) *wink* Tami was wishing she were still here at the end of September! *wink* We wrapped things up with a wee bit of shopping and photo opts with our new friend Michelle! Packing everyone and everything in my jimmy, we prepared to meet Ellie at AC Moore. Couldn't see Ellie making the trek back for Tami. Besides... we were headed in that very direction! *Cheshire grin* There was a gift exchange going on in my vehicle during the "dipsy doodling" ride over to the Mall of New Hampshire... sure hope Tami won't mind traveling with this catawampus woman on her next visit?! *wink* Sadly... it was time to part company at AC Moore. However, we'll keep in-touch via e-mail, phone and relay of person to person. Now to get Tami set-up with her own blog... Blogger's FREE! *wink*

Before leaving the mall... a call for the largest triple berry smoothie offered by Orange Julius was in order for the road trip home... can you say YUM-O!!!! We set forth for our next stop being Capital City! Traveling right along... we noted an accident on the off ramp to the seacoast?! Breathing a sigh of relief and counting our blessings that we weren't headed home in that direction! After reaching the toll booth to exchange our $.75 and have a nice day with the toll booth operator. What did we find... ONLY ourselves in (weekend tourist) grid lock traffic on the otherside, crawling in the direction of HOME!!! *missed photo opt... oops* (Shank's mare would've been quicker) Being a true Yank, my patience was limited. Mare, we're taking a different route! *NH secret... if we told you, then we'd have to kill you... LOL* After limping along, we saw the route needed to get us home at a faster pace than that of a snails. It was clear sailing again! *thanks Dad for all the back roads as a kid... not to mention sense of direction*

Mare offered to toodle around Capital City with me while running a few errands... who'd ever turn down her wonderful company... not me! We found ourselves straying into Mike's. Each of us scoring a newly released Martha Stewart bat paper punch! While agreeing whole heartedly her spider punch was a bit gruesome for our taste. I bet Mike's will be all sold out of the bat punches by the end of today... care to make a wager?! After depositing Mare back to her vehicle and exchanging hugs... I was headed up the dusty trail towards the hills of home.

On the drive... I reflected on the preparation for this day, it's speedy comings and goings... and leaving a fond memory in it's wake?! I busy myself with everyday life 'til our paths cross again my friend. *sigh* I sure hope you enjoyed your virtual road trip with us?! Stay tuned... my partner in crime and I will be heading out again the end of September!

In the near future you will note a new addition to my blog labels, possibly referred to as "blog reviews!" Unless I come-up with a better label... *wink* Stay tuned...

Edited 8-12-07 - You can read my friend, Mare's road trip post ----> HERE! Tami, honey please note that I "fixed" your name after posting your comment... my TYPE A personality wouldn't allow me to leave it incorrect! *wink*

As always, I look forward to our next visit. Until then...

Petit Eiffel Merci...

2007-08-09T05:04:00.003-05:00

Time sure flies... even when your NOT having fun! However, it's fleeting when your in the company of a good friend! *wink*

Hard to believe a week ago tomorrow, my friend Jennie and I were off for a day of shopping. I told Jennie to make a list of places she wanted to shop? We began our adventure with the Etc. Shoppe. I scored a pair of Eddie Bauer and Talbots shorts in like new condition, a large ribbon jar and vintage oak recipe file to name a few of my goodies! *wink* Next on her list was a quilt shop and then it was off to Wal Mart and Longview Farm for some fresh veggies for the evening dinner. We decided on a couple of grilled Panini's for lunch and sat on a park bench for some wonderful conversation. Before we knew it... it was time to head back to the dock as Jennie's husband, Yvon was arriving from Paris!

This was a "simple" thank-you card designed in honor of my friend from Paris, France. When Jennie arrived she brought beautiful gifts of a Paris tee and red enamel on metal dish for Sophie and me. Decidely enough... I don't do simple well! *wink*

You will note my choice of France's flag colors, paisley and the Eiffel Tower in my card design. The brown was not in anyway to insinuate that France is dirty, but rather olde and nostaligic... PLUS I have an issue with white! *wink*

A dream of mine is to someday visit the beautiful city of Paris with my family before I expire. Dave, my husband noted my love of the Eiffel Tower when he was admiring Jennie's card.

A special thank-you to both of our Mum's for watching our children, which allowed us a wonderful day spent together.

Supplies Used: SU! Real Red, Ballet Blue and White Confetti cardstock, SU! Paisley background stamped with VersaMark, A Muse Eiffel Tower image colored with SU! Watercolor Pencils, Mike's $pot "thanks" stamp. Accessories: May Arts Red and Cream striped ribbon (Stamping Memories)

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

Rockin' Bloggyland...

2007-08-06T21:49:00.001-05:00

Attempting to play a little catch-up! You can imagine my delight to know I rock more than just my hubby's world! *wink* These wonderful friends of mine... Mare, Sue and Lorrietori nominated me for the rockin' girl blogger award! Just so you know, my friend Mare posted her's in invisible ink! *wink*
Somehow, someway Mare's post disappeared?!

There are so many wonderful and creative blogger's out there that haven't been tagged because their yet to be discovered! *wink* However... if your reading this.... consider yourself TAGGED as a rockin' girl blogger by me.

My first nominee in no particular order...

Rachel of Hope Stamps Eternal - Rachel starts every post with a thoughtful quote. Rachel's candid sense of humor, not to mention her talents for some out of the box creativity! It wouldn't surprise me if she becomes a daily routine for your blog hopping enjoyment.

Rochelle of Impressions - Rochelle is a blogging friend... true! However, her talents for coming up with some incredible color combinations... not to mention fast delivery of a card just about daily on her blog?! Definitely qualifies her as a "rocking" girl blogger!

Faith of Stampin' With Markie's Mom: - Faith has some incredibly dimensional eye-candi she's creating over on her blog! Faith has an incredible eye for color combinations when it comes to patterned papers! Keep your eye on Faith!

Simmy of Come On Get Stampy! - Simmy's blog title lured me in and her humor and wit kept me entertained! Simmy will keep you abreast visually of all the new SU! goodies. If you've not paid her a visit... I'd click and go!

Noel of Paper Passion & Pixel Mania - Noel drew me in with her blog's name... Once I saw her beauty shine through her incredible layouts and her thoughtful journaling within her posts, well let's just say keep your lens focused on Noel!

If your looking for "new" untapped & talented blogger's... Allison of Stampin' When I Can does an incredible job of keeping everyone in Bloggyland informed of Tutorials, Blog Candy Offers, Challenges and the list goes on! *wink* Thanks Allison... not sure where you find the time?!

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