January's Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

Welcome to the January Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! This month we have around 60 Close To My Heart consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. We will be featuring January's SOTM, which is "True Friends", a set of 11 stamps. If you have come here from Kami's Blog, you are on the right path! If you get lost along the way, refer to the list in my post from yesterday. Either way, make sure to make the complete circle. You won't want to miss any of the beautiful creations these talented consultants have made!
This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one. Here we go.....!

This card features the beautiful new Creative Basics, "Veranda", from the new Spring Idea Book. I used "Juniper" cardstock for my base. The frames were embossed with gold powder and then overstamped with brown Stazon ink to give them more of a bronze look. I cut one of the frames in half to make a sort of buckle for the ribbon layers. Both the top layer of papers and the center frame were mounted with foam tape. Hopefully, you can see the layers in the picture below.

Now hop on over to Pamela's blog to see her beautiful artwork!

Hope your New Year is filled with many blessings!

New Year...New Inspiration

Be sure to join us tomorrow, December 31 for a new CTMH blog hop! We will begin posting at 9:00 pm Eastern time. Come get your dose of inspiration for the new year!

The following talented consultants will be participating:

Helen Onulak http://www.hookedonstamping.com
Jena DeVries http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com
Jessica Booth http://www.jessicabooth.blogspot.com
Carla Ironside http://www.carlacreates.blogspot.com
Lori Miller http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com
Misty Jackson http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com
Jen Patrick http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com
Susan Brooks http://www.stampingintheopen.blogspot.com
Kathleen Androlewicz http://www.bowlofstamps.blogspot.com
Dawn Ross http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com
Amy McVey http://www.clearlystamping.blogspot.com
Antoinette Herrin http://www.GodblessyourART.blogspot.com
Jill Lucas http://www.scrapwench.blogspot.com
Barbra Otten http://www.barbraotten.blogspot.com
Lori Brown http://www.savingmine.blogspot.com
Brae Montgomery http://www.thebrae-er.blogspot.com
Wanda Riley http://www.creatingwithwanda.blogspot.com
Adeline E. Brill http://www.adeline-brill.blogspot.com
Kami Welter http://www.scrappin4memories.blogspot.com
Judy Burger http://www.makingtimeformemories.blogspot.com
Pamela O'Connor http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com
Cindy Leek http://www.paperspadsandpictures.blogspot.com
Mary Eisen http://www.mestamp2.blogspot.com
Sylvia Jacquot http://www.stampinsylvia.blogspot.com
Laura Dame http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com
Melissa Laverty http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com
Haley Dyer http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com
Terrie Dodd http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com
Katy Donaldson http://www.scrappinkaty.blogspot.com
Chris Shouse http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com
Tammy Lea Pinchard http://www.mycreativeclubhouse.blogspot.com
Krista Ritskes http://www.kristaritskes-simplycreating.blogspot.com
Shannon Pelletier http://www.mycolorfulworldinvt.blogspot.com
Deb Young http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com
Amy Edwards http://www.PaisleysPlayhouse.blogspot.com
Sheila Bennett http://www.sheila-bennett.blogspot.com
Kristie Herdener http://www.goofyscrapper.blogspot.com
Jen Rubio http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com
Jody Gustafson http://www.cre8nmemories.blogspot.com
Sarita Schraeder http://www.blessedscrapper.blogspot.com
Laurie Levnik http://www.creationsbylaurie.blogspot.com
Debra Van Patten http://www.memoriesoftheheartbydeb.blogspot.com
Kimberly Smith http://www.verykimberry.blogspot.com
Michelle Nist http://www.Michellenist.blogspot.com
Karen Norman http://www.gettinscrappywithit.blogspot.com
Traci Godbee http://www.createwithtraci.blogspot.com
Nancy Brown http://www.creativelyartsygallery.blogspot.com
Maricar Harris http://www.maricarharris.blogspot.com
Nona Davenport http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com
Laurie Newton http://www.scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com
Dawn Heuft http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com
Melissa Burch http://www.melissaburch.blogspot.com
Kim O'Rear http://www.kimorear.blogspot.com
Michelle Bourlet http://www.michellescreativeconnections.blogspot.com
Angela Tutton http://www.tuttonstreasures.blogspot.com
Jenifer Benner http://www.jensmessystudio.com
Shirley Ross http://www.momnmescrap.blogspot.com
Latisha Haag http://www.domestichomefrontcoordinator.blogspot.com

Favorite Christmas Card

This is my favorite Christmas card that I've made so far. I used paper from "Aspen" for my background. I sponged the bottom with paint to make the snow bank and stamped tiny stars in the sky. I used a Versamark marker to draw the star and embossed it in silver. Then filled it in with Prisma glitter. The adorable little bears are from "Chillin", which is retiring this year. The trees, (from a retired set called "The Beauty of Christmas") and the bears were all stamped and most popped with foam squares.

Counting the Days 'til Christmas

My grandchildren love to count down the days until Christmas, so here is another Advent Calendar for them. It was made using a cookie sheet from the Dollar Store. The main stamp set used is "All Decked Out". The images were stamped twice with one set cut out and magnets added. Each day we add another piece to the picture. When the picture is complete it's time for Santa to come!

December SOTM Blog Hop

Welcome to the December Stamp of the Month blog hop! If you have come here from Deb's blog you are on the right path.

Once again, we have over 60 consultants sharing their incredible artwork. Be sure and make the entire circle, because you won't want to miss any of it.

This month's featured set is "Notice the Details". It is a set of 41 stamps. I think this is a great set for scrapbook pages and calendars, however I wanted to do something different with it. It was a challenge, but this is what I came up with. I used the binder clip and bracket stamps to make the flower. The paper is from the "Twitterpated" paper pack.

Now hop on over to Jamia's blog and take a look at what she has designed. This is a circle hop so keep going until you get back here. If you get lost or want to complete the circle at another time you can see the entire list of participants in my post below.

Happy Hopping!

December Stamp of the Month Blog Hop Coming!

The December Stamp of the Month blog hop will be starting soon. Aren't you excited? I am! We will be going live at 9 pm. (Eastern Time) on November 30th. This set was a challenge for me, so I can't wait to see all the incredible artwork that my fellow consultants have in store for us.

Here is the list of participating consultants, in case you get lost along the way or want to continue the circle at another time.

Jena DeVries http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com/
Helen Onulak http://www.hookedonstamping.com/
Nona Davenport http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com/
Beth Naumann http://www.bethscreativeblock.blogspot.com/
Michelle Nist http://michellenist.blogspot.com/
Cibele Glazer http://www.flowerfoot.blogspot.com/
Dawn Heuft http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com/
Karen Norman http://www.gettinscrappywithit.blogspot.com/
Brae Montgomery http://thebrae-er.blogspot.com/
Adeline E. Brill http://adeline-brill.blogspot.com/
Jen Patrick http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com/
Tammy Lea Pinchard http://mycreativeclubhouse.blogspot.com/
Melissa Laverty http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com/
Chris Shouse http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/
Misty Jackson http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com/
Amy McVey http://www.clearlystamping.blogspot.com/
Linda Shewchuk http://www.awesomememories.blogspot.com/
Jessica Booth http://jessicabooth.blogspot.com/
Sylvia Jacquot http://stampinsylvia.blogspot.com/
Amy Edwards http://paisleysplayhouse.blogspot.com/
Deb Young http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com/
Judy Burger http://makingtimeformemories.blogspot.com You are Here
Jamia Bankhead http://www.papermadnessinc.blogspot.com/
Paige Dolecki http://www.paigespaperparadise.blogspot.com/
Shannon Pelletier http://www.mycolorfulworldinvt.blogspot.com/
Pamela O'Connor http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com/
Kathleen Androlewicz http://bowlofstamps.blogspot.com/
Debra Van Patten http://memoriesoftheheartbydeb.blogspot.com/
Wendy Kessler http://www.myscrapbookingblog.com/
Dawn Ross http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com/
Caren Goldsein http://www.scrappycaren.blogspot.com/
Lori Brown http://www.savingmine.blogspot.com/
Lori Miller http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com/
Sarita Schraeder http://www.blessedscrapper.blogspot.com/
Tanya David http://www.scramperscorner.blogspot.com/
Barbra Otten http://barbraotten.blogspot.com/
Laurie Newton http://scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com/
Kristie Herdener http://www.goofyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Maricar Harris http://www.maricarharris.blogspot.com/
Laurie Levnik http://www.creationsbylaurie.blogspot.com/
Carla Ironside http://www.carlacreates.blogspot.com/
Cindy Leek http://www.paperspadsandpictures.blogspot.com/
Mary Eisen http://www.mestamp2.blogspot.com/
Sheila Bennett http://sheila-bennett.blogspot.com/
Lori Leng http://www.pinkcloudscrappers.blogspot.com/
Susan Brooks http://www.stampingintheopen.blogspot.com/
Jen Rubio http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com/
Traci Godbee http://createwithtraci.blogspot.com/
Krista Ritskes http://kristaritskes-simplycreating.blogspot.com/
Haley Dyer http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Terrie Dodd http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com/
Wanda Riley http://www.creatingwithwanda.blogspot.com/
Antoinette Herrin http://www.godblessyourart.blogspot.com/
Laura Dame http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com/
Jill Lucas http://scrapwench.blogspot.com/
Katy Donaldson http://www.scrappinkaty.blogspot.com/
Jody Gustafson http://www.cre8nmemories.blogspot.com/
Kimberly Smith http://verykimberry.blogspot.com/
Melissa Burch http://melissaburch.blogspot.com/
Tracy Oleksak http://www.mamaolie.blogspot.com/
Shirley Ross http://www.momnmescrap.blogspot.com/

A Quick Thanksgiving Card

Thanksgiving is fast approaching so here is a quick Thanksgiving card for you. I used B & T paper from the "Twitterpated" paper packet. The stamps are all from the "Grateful Hearts" set. Hope you like it!


Happy Wednesday everyone!

Flourished Blessings

This is a card that I made with my stamp club ladies this month. It is 6 x 6, and made with paper from CTMH's "Grace" paper pack. I love the beautiful autumn colors in this paper.

The stamp set used is "Flourished Blessings". We also embellished with Just Blooms paper flowers and buttons from the "Basic" craft buttons.

Better Late than Never...My take on this Week's Mojo Monday

This is my card based on this week's Mojo Monday sketch. It features Close to my Heart's stamp set "Ring in the Year". This cute set is retiring the end of this year. Paper used is also CTMH; "Aspen" whose featured colors are, Twilight, Outdoor Denim, Bamboo and Creme Brulee.

Stampaganza 2009 Begins Today!

Do you love stamps? Well then, you will be happy to know that Stampaganza starts today and we are making it easy to build your stamp collection.

From November 3–30, 2009, purchase any two stamp sets (sizes A, B, C, D, and/or E only) at full retail price and you will receive a third stamp set of your choice FREE (of equal or lesser value for your entire order)—a savings of up to $22.95 US / $28.50 CAN!
Shipping/handling fees apply. Stamp sets available for FREE include: A, B, C, and D-size sets only. E-size, customizable (K), Stamp of the Month, and Art & Soul® sets are not available as the free set. Stamp sets that count toward the qualifying purchase include full-priced A, B, C, D, and E-size sets only. Stamps that do not qualify toward a qualifying purchase include Stamp of the Month, Art & Soul, Workshops on the Go™, and customized (K) stamps.

Contact me today to place your order or shop online at: http://jmb.myctmh.com

November Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

Welcome to the November Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!


We have 64 Close To My Heart consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. We are featuring "Around the Block", a set of 26 stamps. If you have come here from Nancy's Blog, you are on the right path! If you get lost along the way, you may want to go back to Jena's Blog and start from the beginning, or refer to the complete list in my post from yesterday. Either way, make sure to make the complete circle. You won't want to miss any of the beautiful creations these talented consultants have made!
This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one. Here we go.....!

I used this cute set to make a Thanks for your hospitality card. The house is paper pieced and pop dotted. The alphabet used on the front is "Homestead", which retires the end of this year. Inside the card is lined with paper from the "Grace" paper pack. On the left is a stamp from the "Solo T" stamp set.

Now "Hop" on over to Sylvia's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting, and other fun ideas! Remember, the November SOTM is only available until 11/30/09! Contact your CTMH Consultant (or click here) to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!

November Blog Hop Coming!

Wow, tomorrow is November 1st already and that means another great blog hop is coming your way! November's hop will feature 64 talented consultants artwork for your inspiration.

It was decided to go back to one list; so you can start at any point and just make a complete circle until you get through all 64. Here is the complete list, in case you get lost at any point. Just click on the name and it will take you to their blog.

Jena DeVries
Helen Onulak
Carla Ironside
Cindy Leek
Laurie Levnik
Krista Ritskes
Kathleen Androlewicz
Paige Dolecki
Shannon Pelletier
Jody Gustafson
Laura Dame
Terrie Dodd
Lori Brown
Cibele Glazer
Caren Goldsein
Traci Godbee
Dawn Ross
Maricar Harris
Jamia Bankhead
Laurie Newton
Nona Davenport
Tanya David
Sheila Bennett
Melissa Laverty
Amy Edwards
Lori Leng
Kristie Herdener
Jill Lucas
Adeline E. Brill
Michelle Nist
Dawn Heuft
Jessica Booth
Susan Brooks
Sarita Schraeder
Katy Donaldson
Mary Eisen
Deb Young
Haley Dyer
Kimberly Smith
Barbra Otten
Tammy Lea Pinchard
Nancy Brown
Judy Burger You are here
Sylvia Jacquot
Brae Montgomery
Pamela O'Connor
Antoinette Herrin
Debra Van Patten
Jen Patrick
Wendy Kessler
Beth Naumann
Misty Jackson
Brenda Harmless
Amy McVey
Linda Shewchuk
Chris Shouse
Pam Klassen
Michelle Bourlet
Jen Rubio
Wanda Riley
Lori Miller
Carol Taggio
Tracy Oleksak

Christmas Card Workshop

Wow! What a busy month this has been. I can't believe it is almost the last week of October. Since I haven't had much time to do any paper crafting, I thought I would share some of the cards that we will be making at my Christmas card workshop this weekend. These are made using various stamp sets and the Jingle papers with coordinating cardstock.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

October Blog Hop

Welcome to the October Stamp of the Month blog hop! This month's hop features "Holiday Warmth", a set of 11 stamps.

I hope you enjoy the new format of the hop; with the smaller groups. Please see my post from the 28th to find out where to go to see the rest of the hop after you are done with our group. You won't want to miss any of the artwork!

I decided to combine two of my favorite things when I made this card; snowglobes and shaker cards. I stamped and embossed the tree, colored it and added liquid glass to make ornaments. Then, I stamped the presents from the set on shrink plastic to put in with the beads for the shaker. The card will fit in a 6 x 6 envelope.

Now, hop on over to Paige's blog to view her beautiful artwork. If you get lost along the way, come back here and refer to the list in the post below.

And, be sure to contact your Close to my Heart consultant, or click here to purchase this great stamp set. Remember, it's only available during the month of October.

New Blog Hop Coming!

I am excited to announce that the October Stamp of the Month blog hop will be starting on Thursday, October 1st. Our group has grown so large that this month the hop will be divided into three smaller groups. We will all still post at the same time, and you can still see all the postings if you would like. You can find the full list on Jena's blog; where you will go to hop with group 1. Group 2 will start on Debra's blog, and group 3 will start here on my blog. Our hope is that this will make it easier for everyone to really take their time and see all of the beautiful artwork these talented consultants make.

Here is the list of consultants blogs for group 3:

Judy Burger
Paige Dolecki
Nancy Ball
Adeline E. Brill
Cindy Leek
Carol Taggio
Jody Gustafson
Wanda Riley
Jill Lucas
Susan Brooks
Dawn Heuft
Shannon Pelletier
Laurie Levnik
Caren Goldsein
Brenda Harmless
Amy McVey
Traci Godbee
Maricar Harris
Pam Klassen
Misty Jackson

Another Card using "Grace"

I really like the beautiful Autumn colors in Close to my Heart's "Grace" paper pack. This is another card made with those papers. It is based on Mojo Monday sketch #105. I used the "Delightful Things" stamp set (D1369) and the new "Wonder" Heartfelt Die-Cuts.

Be sure to check out the latest episode of Art & Soul on my CTMH website to see other great ways to use these products and a chance to get this great stamp set at a discount! Look for the episode "Crossing Borders" under CTMHTV.

Some Christmas Mojo

Here is a quick Christmas card based on this weeks Mojo Monday sketch #103. I used Close to my Heart's "Everlasting" paper pack and the October stamp of the month set called "Holiday Warmth". The card, also has some glitter and sparkles which aren't showing in the photo very well; it's much prettier in person.

Be sure to go to the Mojo Monday blog and check out all the beautiful artwork for this weeks sketch.

Yeah for Saturday!

Boy, have I missed having my craft space! I just don't seem to be able to get in the groove with my projects since I had to give up my studio. My things are scattered, put wherever I could find space, which isn't helping matters any. I think it is going to take me awhile to adjust to working this way.

I am glad it is a long weekend, as I still have to design the cards I will be doing with my club next weekend. I think this will be one that we do. It is based on today's sketch #22, on Unscripted Sketches. I just rotated the design. Like the card in my last post, this one is also made with Close to my Heart's stamp of the month for September called "Treasures". I used the new Grace papers, along with Cocoa and Bamboo cardstock. The flowers were embossed with White Daisy embossing powder and then sponged lightly with brown Stazon ink to mute them a little.

Thanks, Unscripted Sketches for the inspiration!

September Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

Welcome to the September Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! This month we have almost 70 Close To My Heart consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. We will be featuring September's SOTM, which is "Treasures", a set of 13 stamps. If you have come here from Terrie's Blog, you are on the right path! If you get lost along the way, you may want to go back to Jena's Blog and start from the beginning, or refer to the list in my post from yesterday. Either way, make sure to make the complete circle. You won't want to miss any of the beautiful creations these talented consultants have made!

This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one. Here we go.....!

This card was made using the new paper pack called "Grace". The colors featured in "Grace" are, Honey, Cocoa, Twilight and Barn Red. The size of the card is 4 1/2 x 6".

It is a pocket card with the sentiment tucked inside and held closed with ribbon fed through eyelets.

The flower on the front is stamped in Barn Red and heat embossed in clear.


Now "Hop" on over to Jessica's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting, and other fun ideas! Remember, the September SOTM is only available until 9/30/09! Contact your CTMH Consultant (or click here) to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!

Blog Hop Tomorrow!

I am so excited to annouce the September Stamp of the Month blog hop starts tomorrow! There are almost 70 Close to my Heart consultants participating! In order to make sure the hop runs smoothly, I am testing out links to Terrie's blog, she will be the one visitors are coming from; and Jessica's blog, she will be the one you hop to after mine. I can't wait to see what all of these talented consultants come up with. So be sure to come back September 1st, and hop along. I'm sure you will be amazed at all the beautiful artwork you'll see. A big thanks to Jena for putting this together!



Here is the complete list of participants in case you get lost along the way or want to come back and continue the journey. Be sure to make the complete circle, so you don't miss any of the artwork. And, if you like what you see, make someone's day; leave a comment!



Jena DeVries http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com/

Nona Davenport http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com/

Katy Donaldson http://www.scrappinkaty.blogspot.com/

Cibele Glazer http://www.flowerfoot.blogspot.com/

Laura Dame http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com/

Lori Leng http://www.pinkcloudscrappers.blogspot.com/

Jamia Bankhead http://www.papermadnessinc.blogspot.com/

Melissa Laverty http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com/

Pamela OConnor http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com/

Sheila Bennett http://sheila-bennett.blogspot.com/

Adeline E. Brill http://adeline-brill.blogspot.com/

Wendy Kessler http://www.myscrapbookingblog.com/

Beth Naumann http://www.bethscreativeblock.blogspot.com/

Barbra Otten http://barbraotten.blogspot.com/

Terrie Dodd http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com/

Judy Burger http://makingtimeformemories.blogspot.com/

Jessica Booth http://jessicabooth.blogspot.com/

Leisa Hubley http://www.bigredscraps.blogspot.com/

Helen Onulak http://www.hookedonstamping.com/

Debra Van Patten http://memoriesoftheheartbydeb.blogspot.com/

Juli Clark http://www.thestampteacher.blogspot.com/

Sarita Schraeder http://www.blessedscrapper.blogspot.com/

Michelle Robinson http://www.amaizenbluelady.typepad.com/

Maricar Harris http://www.maricarharris.blogspot.com/

Antoinette Herrin http://www.godblessyourart.blogspot.com/

Kathleen Androlewicz http://bowlofstamps.blogspot.com/

Cindy Leek http://www.paperspadsandpictures.blogspot.com/

Dawn Heuft http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com/

Barbara Harris http://www.paper-creations117.blogspot.com/

Alanna Moses http://www.damoses.blogspot.com/

Laurie Levnik http://www.creationsbylaurie.blogspot.com/

Tanya David http://www.scramperscorner.blogspot.com/

Karen Norman http://www.gettinscrappywithit.blogspot.com/

Jan Moxey http://scrapandstamp4ever.blogspot.com/

Tammy Lea Pinchard http://mycreativeclubhouse.blogspot.com/

Paige Dolecki http://www.paigespaperparadise.blogspot.com/

Kelly Triggs http://www.stampinallday.blogspot.com/

Sherry Thompson http://www.picturespatternsandpaper.blogspot.com/

Deb Young http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com/

Nancy Ball http://www.ballisticdesign.blogspot.com/

Chris Shouse http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/

Dawn Ross http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com/

Brae Montgomery http://thebrae-er.blogspot.com/

Laurie R Newton http://scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com/

Haley Dyer http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com/

Carol Taggio http://craftycarol55.blogspot.com/

Amy McVey http://www.clearlystamping.blogspot.com/

Carla Ironside http://www.carlacreates.blogspot.com/

Jen Rubio http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com/

Kristie Horness-Herdener http://www.goofyscrapper.blogspot.com/

Jill Lucas http://scrapwench.blogspot.com/

Wanda Riley http://www.creatingwithwanda.blogspot.com/

Miranda Kurz http://www.scrampinwithmiranda.com/

Jody Gustafson http://www.cre8nmemories.blogspot.com/

Susan Brooks http://www.stampingintheopen.blogspot.com/

Kami Welter http://www.scrappin4memories.blogspot.com/

Jennifer Patrick http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com/

Julia Menssen http://www.ralphandjulia.blogspot.com/

Shannon Pelletier http://www.mycolorfulworldinvt.blogspot.com/

Linda Shewchuk http://www.awesomememories.blogspot.com/

Brenda Harmless http://keepsakeswithheart.blogspot.com/

Donni Alvarenga http://www.donniscreativetherapy.blogspot.com/

Nancy Brown http://www.creativelyartsygallery.blogspot.com/

Traci Godbee http://createwithtraci.blogspot.com/

Pam Klassen http://eimmap.blogspot.com/

Lori Miller http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com/

Kimberly Smith http://verykimberry.blogspot.com/

Caren Goldsein http://www.scrappycaren.blogspot.com/

Misty Jackson http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com/

Stealing a Little Time to Play

I took a little time out this morning to make a friend this Bon Voyage card. Happy Sailing Carleen!

All products used are Close to my Heart. Stamp set is "New Horizons" which is going to retire this year.

With the start of a new school year underway, I sadly see my creative time slipping away. So, I will have to steal moments when I can. Add to that, the fact that my creative space is being taken over, due to family having to move in with us; and I am afraid my projects will have to take a back seat to the rest of the chaos going on around me. Oh well, this will just make my creative therapy sessions even more precious to me!

I hope everyone has a great weekend and be sure to steal a little time to play too!

An Early Start to the Celebration

In celebration of National Stamping Month, Close to my Heart has created a limited edition card kit. This kit contains: Everyday Celebration Stamp set (only available in this kit), 16 Colonial White card bases and envelopes, assorted paper, 2 mini ink pads, ribbon, foam squares, sponge, mini-medley accessories and instructional brochure.

There will be 3 ways to earn this great kit for free; one of which begins today! From now until September 30th, purchase a minimum of $60 in stamp sets (excluding stamp of the month, Art & Soul discounted products and custom stamps) and you will receive one of these great sets for free! The other parts of the promotion begin September 1st. So, be sure to come back for the details on that, at the end of August.

A Little Halloween Fun

I just received some of my new Close to my Heart products and just couldn't wait to use them. One of the stamp sets I got, is a new Halloween set called "Spellbound". For this weeks Unscripted Sketches 19 design, I used the Spellbound set, except for the moon. Even though Spellbound has one, I used the one from October Word Puzzle which is bigger. The tree, (which I love) bats and moon were all embossed. Other products used are: patterned paper, Pinecone Press and embossing powder from Sparkle and Sprinkle.

Well, the summer is over for me. Tomorrow I head back to work, so I won't get to play with the rest of my goodies for awhile. Oh well, that's what weekends are for I guess. : )

Mojo Monday 99

I am so happy to have found the Mojo Monday blog. It is so much fun to take on these different challenges. If you haven't tried it, do so. At least, go and look at the beautiful artwork you will find for each weeks design.

For this card, I am again trying to use up my scraps. The design is Mojo Monday 99. All supplies are CTMH except embossing powder, which is from Sparkle and Sprinkle. Stamp set used is "Annotations".

Well, happy Hump day to all. I'm off to cram in as much papercrafting fun as I can before I have to go back to work! The summer has gone by way too fast!

Unscripted Sketches #18

Last night, I got a chance to have some creative therapy time at my niece's house. Thanks, Meg! As much as I enjoy working on papercraft projects anytime, it is always so nice to be able to share the fun with others!

I worked on several little projects. This one is a card based on Unscripted Sketches Sketch it Saturdays # 18. I made this card using Close to my Heart's "Animal Cookies" paper and the "It's a Zoo" stamp set. Love this paper for all kinds of kids projects!

Another Product to Play With!

I had been hearing a lot about Flower Soft and have been wanting to see what the buzz is all about. Not having a local scrapbooking store close by, I didn't know when I would get the chance. So, I was very excited when I saw that they were going to be at the CHA show that I attended last weekend. I made sure to get to their Make and Take.

I really like this product! It is easy to use and gives a really unique look. If you haven't had the chance to try this, do so! I think you will really enjoy using it.

Here is the card I made at the show:

Mojo Monday 98

Today I decided to make a Christmas card using the Mojo Monday 98 sketch for inspiration.

The background paper is glossy cardstock with alcohol ink. I am just beginning to use the alcohol inks and have a very limited supply, but I thought these colors would be pretty on a Christmas card.
All the rest of the materials, except the ribbon are Close to my Heart. The poinsettia and corner stamps are from "Gift of Love" (C1291) and the scroll is from "Life's Creation" (D1304). They were all stamped with Versamark and embossed in gold.

It's a Thanks-a-bration!

Starting tomorrow August 3, Close To My Heart wants to do something special just for you!


How would you like to earn a free My Reflections Level 2 paper packet? Just place a minimum order of $100 and you will receive not only the August Stamp of the Month set, "It's Your Day", but also a free paper pack!* That's a total retail value of $39.90!


Ready for even more thanks? We will also cover the tax and shipping/handling on the free products!


Click here to place your order and be sure to act fast, because this Thanks-a-bration only lasts until August 17th!


To see some great ideas on using the August stamp of the month, be sure to check out the Blog Hop featured in the post below!


*Offer valid August 3 - 17th, 2009. Limit of one free paper packet and Stamp of the Month per qualifying order. No shipping/handling or tax on free items, but shipping/handling and tax will apply on the qualifying purchase. Free paper packet will be hand-selected for you by Close to my Heart.

August SOTM Blog Hop

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! This month we have over 60 Close To My Heart consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. We will be featuring August's SOTM, which is "It's Your Day", a set of 26 stamps. If you have come here from Leslie's Blog, you are on the right path! If this is your first stop, you may want to go back to Jena's Blog and start from the beginning! Either way, make sure to make the complete circle. You won't want to miss any of the beautiful creations these talented consultants have made!


This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one. Here we go.....!





















This is what I call a box card, because it folds like you would fold the top of a box. I'm not sure if there is another name for this, but I thought it showcased this stamp set well. The closed card makes a 5 x 5 inch square, and unfolds to reveal the sentiment. It is hard to tell from the picture, but the squares with words, are trimmed with prisma glitter and the presents are decorated with black embossing powder that has prisma glitter added to it. The bows are also embossed.


I used Close to my Heart's wonderful textured cardstock in Black, White Daisy and Watermelon to make this card. I love that CTMH's textured cardstock is two-toned. It is wonderful for cards; giving you a lighter color for the inside of the card. Inks used are also Black and Watermelon.

Now "Hop" on over to Laurie's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the August SOTM is only available until 8/31/09! Contact your CTMH Consultant (or click here) to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!



If you get lost on the hop, or find links that aren't working, here is a complete list of all the participating consultant's blogs.

Jena DeVries http://www.livelovelaughscrapbook.blogspot.com/
Kristie Horness-Herdener http://www.goofyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Carla Ironside http://www.carlacreates.blogspot.com/
Deb Young http://www.scrapbookczar.blogspot.com/
Alanna Moses http://www.damoses.blogspot.com/
Paige Dolecki http://www.paigespaperparadise.blogspot.com/
Wendy Kessler http://www.myscrapbookingblog.com/
Heather Painchaud http://www.twindragonflydesigns.blogspot.com/
Helen Onulak http://www.hookedonstamping.com/
Barbra Otten http://barbraotten.blogspot.com/
Haley Dyer http://www.inkyscrapper.blogspot.com/
Nona Davenport http://www.nonapearl.blogspot.com/
Michelle Robinson http://www.amaizenbluelady.typepad.com/
Cindy Leek http://www.paperspadsandpictures.blogspot.com/
Melissa Laverty http://www.fancymelissa.blogspot.com/
Katy Donaldson http://www.scrappinkaty.blogspot.com/
Amy McVey http://www.clearlystamping.blogspot.com/
Tammy Lea Pinchard http://www.creativeimpressions-pinchme.blogspot.com/
Leslie Markland http://pandascrapper.blogspot.com/
Judy Burger http://makingtimeformemories.blogspot.com/
Laurie R Newton http://scrapsfromthebeach.blogspot.com/
Kami Welter http://www.scrappin4memories.blogspot.com/
Tracy Oleksak http://www.mamaolie.blogspot.com/
Karen Norman http://www.gettinscrappywithit.blogspot.com/
Chris Shouse http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/
Cibele Glazer http://www.flowerfoot.blogspot.com/
Debra Van Patten http://memoriesoftheheartbydeb.blogspot.com/
Terrie Dodd http://www.my-life-in-real-time.blogspot.com/
Jamia Bankhead http://www.papermadnessinc.blogspot.com/
Anne Beck http://www.anniemuses.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Patrick http://www.roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com/
Laurie Levnik http://www.creationsbylaurie.blogspot.com/
Lori Miller http://www.clearlyfromtheheart.blogspot.com/
Brae Montgomery http://thebrae-er.blogspot.com/
Dawn Ross http://www.iamahappystamper.blogspot.com/
Dawn Slipcevic http://dawnscrapsalot.blogspot.com/
Barbara Harris http://www.paper-creations117.blogspot.com/
Carol Taggio http://craftycarol55.blogspot.com/
Jill Lucas http://scrapwench.blogspot.com/
Chris Green http://www.createwithchris.blogspot.com/
Nancy Ball http://www.ballisticdesign.blogspot.com/
Dawn Heuft http://www.stamptildawn.blogspot.com/
Kelly Triggs http://www.stampinallday.blogspot.com/
Beth Naumann http://www.bethscreativeblock.blogspot.com/
Antoinette Herrin http://www.godblessyourart.blogspot.com/
Jessica Booth http://jessicabooth.blogspot.com/
Jen Rubio http://www.jenrubio.blogspot.com/
Misty Jackson http://www.misstscraps.blogspot.com/
Adeline E. Brill http://adeline-brill.blogspot.com/
Lori Leng http://www.pinkcloudscrappers.blogspot.com/
Pam Klassen http://eimmap.blogspot.com/
Pamela OConnor http://www.cherishyourmemories.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Royal http://www.craftroyalty.blogspot.com/
Caren Goldsein http://www.scrappycaren.blogspot.com/
Shannon Pelletier http://www.shannonmvt.blogspot.com/
Sherry Thompson http://www.picturespatternsandpaper.blogspot.com/
Maricar Harris http://www.maricarharris.blogspot.com/
Traci Godbee http://createwithtraci.blogspot.com/
Laura Dame http://www.thecroppersconnection.blogspot.com/
Miranda Kurz http://www.scrampinwithmiranda.com/
Leisa Hubley http://www.bigredscraps.blogspot.com/
Julia Menssen http://www.ralphandjulia.blogspot.com/
Jan Moxey http://scrapandstamp4ever.blogspot.com/
Jody Gustafson http://www.cre8nmemories.blogspot.com/

CHA Supershow

Just arrived back to the hotel after spending the day at the Craft and Hobby Association's Supershow in Orlando. What an incredible day we had looking at lots of new, fun products including the new Provo Craft Gypsy for the Cricut. We made some fun Make and Takes and watched some amazing demos.

Best of all we won some incredible prizes! Off the top of my head, I would say I'm coming home tonight with at least $400.00 worth of products for FREE!

I can't wait to go back tomorrow for more crafting fun!

Time to make space...

After rearranging my craft room yesterday, I decided that I need to make an effort to start using up more of my scraps and leftover bits of paper packs. Of course, being the paper collector that I am, it is always difficult to see that last little bit gone.


Here are a couple of cards that I made today. The first one is based on this week's Mojo Monday sketch 97. It did not photograph very well. The colors in the photo are muted and you can't see the pattern on the green paper; which has almost a quilted look, very pretty. The other is my first attempt at a flower pot card. What fun that was to make; can't wait to do more of them!

Blog Hop Test

I am so excited to be joining the August Stamp of the Month blog hop. There are over 60 Close to my Heart consultants participating! In order to make sure the hop runs smoothly, I am testing out links to Leslie's blog, she will be the one visitors are coming from; and Laurie's blog, she will be the one you hop to after mine. I can't wait to see what all of these talented consultants come up with. So be sure to come back August 1st, and hop along. I'm sure you will be amazed at all the beautiful artwork you'll see. A big thanks to Jena for putting this together!

Birthday Time!

Wow, it has been a busy week. Lots to do, but, a lot of fun too! I hosted my youngest grandson's first birthday party this past weekend. Wow, what a crowd in my little house; it was great! It gave me an excuse to do one of my other favorite hobbies, cake decorating. I made him an Elmo cake and had just about finished it, when it dawned on me that since it was his first birthday he needed a smash cake; so back to the kitchen I went. It was well worth it, as he had a great time eating/wearing his birthday cake!

Happy Birthday Cohen! Nana loves you!

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Let's go Camping

This is one of the cards that I made with my club this month. We were focusing on the masking technique and using it to add depth to their stamped images, like adding the tree behind the camper in this card. It was made with Close to my Heart's "Let's Go Camping" and "Backwoods".

The card could be used for many occasions. I think I'm going to give to my husband as a hint that it's time to go camping! : )

I Love Shaker Cards

Don't ask me why, but I love shaker cards! I guess it's the kid in me. The're just fun to play with. This is my lastest one to celebrate summer.

I used the CTMH "Daydream" (D1297) stamp set to stamp the scene and colored it in using watercolor pencils. The beach umbrella was stamped, colored and cut out, then popped with foam squares.

And, yes there is real sand and seashells in it! Give it a try, and shake, shake, shake. : )

Those Baby Blues

Ever since Close to my Heart's Spring Idea Book came out, I have wanted to do a layout similar to the cover. This weekend, I finally got it done. Yeah!

This is my version using the "Animal Cookies" creative basics paper. All products used on the page are CTMH. The little cutie is my youngest grandson.

"Favorite Five" - Great Opportunity in July

Become a Close to My Heart consultant between July 1 - 31 and we'll send you your choice of five additional select products for FREE, with no additional shipping/handling or tax! It's a limited opportunity you'll want to jump on right away!


Choose your "Favorite Five" from this list of products:
My Acrylix® Thank You Stamp Set (retail value $22.95)
Magic Moments Scrapbook Kit (retail value $34.95)
Basic Textured Cardstock Combo Pack (retail value $14.95)
Life Delights Memory Showcase (retail value $12.95)
My Originals® Hello Birdie Card Kit (retail value $12.95)
Creative Basics™ Silhouette Collection (retail value $8.95)
HeartFelt™ Whimsy Die-Cuts (retail value $9.95)
All-Out Adventure Rub-Ons (retail value $9.95)
Window Charms™ Squares (retail value $9.95)

For more information on becoming a consultant CLICK HERE

July's Stamp of the Month

Wow...July 1st already, I can't believe it. The summer is going by way too fast.

Here is my card using the July stamp of the month, "You've got Flair". I will be making this with my stamp club this month. So, yes ladies, if you are reading this you get a sneak peek at two of our projects.

The image is embossed on vellum, which lines the inside of the card. I like the stained glass appearance of the card. All product used is Close to my Heart, except the ribbon.

Just another day in Paradise...?

Well, not so much as the weather has not been great today. Woke up to rain this morning and it continued off and on most of the day. In between the showers it was like a steam bath outside, so I was forced ( darn...;D ) to stay in all day and play with my stamps. What's a girl to do???

This is one of the cards I will be doing with my card club in July. I wanted to show them a card using only cardstock and stamping. I did add a little glitter for some bling. Don't know if you can tell from the picture, but the hibiscus in the middle actually extends out from the fold. This was made using the "Extreme Happiness" stamp set from Close to my Heart. Hope you like it!

A Day on the Water

I hope all the Dads out there had a wonderful Father's Day. My husband and I joined his cousins for a boating trip and picnic. It seemed to be a popular choice for an outing, as the waterways were filled with boaters heading for the best spots to anchor for the afternoon. We had a great time enjoying the beautiful beaches, good food and friendship. I can't wait to scrapbook the memories of the day.

I thought I would share the recipe for the cake I made as everyone seemed to really enjoy it.

Pineapple Pecan Cake

2 cups sugar or I prefer 1 cup of Splenda baking blend

2 cups all purpose flour

2 eggs

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 can crushed pineapple (20 oz.) with juice

1 cup chopped pecans

Combine first five ingredients. Mix well and stir in nuts. Bake in 13 x 9 ungreased pan, at 350 for 40 - 45 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.

Frosting

1/2 cup butter

1 pkg. cream cheese (8 oz.)

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar

Cream butter, cream cheese and vanilla. Slowly add sugar. Frost cake and enjoy!

I thought I would share a little about how I started stamping and papercrafting...
My first introduction to stamping was in the late 80's. While visiting friends in the Carolina's we went to a little craft village and found a store selling handmade cards. They were beautiful works of art. The lady in the shop gave a demonstration using heat embossing and I was hooked! I bought my supplies and started making cards. I still can't believe that I used to heat my embossing powder over a light bulb! Never heard of a heat gun until years later.
About 15 years ago, I was introduced to scrapbooking by my cousin and quickly found another craft to love. I have always enjoyed learning my family's history and loved to take pictures, so scrapbooking was a natural fit.
My daughter introduced me to Close to my Heart, after she was invited to a friend's Home Gathering. She came home saying, "Mom, you're gonna love this!". Boy, was she right. The variety and quality of the products, made me want them all. I quickly began attending as many workshops as I could with my consultant and enjoyed every minute.
My decision to become a consultant has been a great one! It has afforded me the opportunity to be creative, meet some wonderful people and have lots of fun!

Starting the Journey

Well, I've decided to jump aboard the blogging train. But, I am thinking that my first stop may have to be at a book store. Does anyone know if there is a "Blogging for Dummies" book in print? Anyway, I hope you will come along for the ride. We will take the slow, scenic route; as we " make time for the memories".