tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55126722833903568542024-03-13T19:03:01.676-07:00Stampin' StudHusband, Father, StamperAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-4142544980560890592016-03-06T03:00:00.000-08:002016-03-06T03:00:14.827-08:00CYCI #110 Hip Hop Hooray!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As usual, I had a lot of fun with this week's sketch challenge from <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">CanYouCaseIt</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJtt0JRG7f0kYSPA3zFL31_M8IMZgDGt-TAChd5XAa5N7sDx-GXtuxBYl1NUnZ5TsZztxi-8Lm8vEFLMO0rxj6s035Kh3VTjRfs_V-o_icufTxM5MVUHOC9EldMZBk_Yqdyd4jsD-chE/s400/cyci+week.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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As I was deciding on what to make, I stared at the sketch and saw my options; at first I wanted to create some kind of outer space scene, with the main shape of the sketch being represented by a flying comet or something like that. But alas, I couldn't find any spacey type stamps. So I though about making the sketch into a badge or award, but at the same time I also had a vision of the sketch turning into a necklace with a pendant, hip-hop style. That ultimately became the inspiration for my card:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlf9OuH9PwDKTbufE-wL-vWDNYAsbeHgQD9XVr-_61O83_aMFx3xMrJiQdBnvA5tKSBwwxueXzOUGkwQCV1KptJoUcqiYw3y608tv5pNAqHmiz7B1SRfQOh3At9Ca-3_QP8zJUw0W1YI/s1600/cyci+110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlf9OuH9PwDKTbufE-wL-vWDNYAsbeHgQD9XVr-_61O83_aMFx3xMrJiQdBnvA5tKSBwwxueXzOUGkwQCV1KptJoUcqiYw3y608tv5pNAqHmiz7B1SRfQOh3At9Ca-3_QP8zJUw0W1YI/s640/cyci+110.JPG" width="546" /></a></div>
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Add in some masking, sponging, and fussy cutting and voila! </div>
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Now it's YOUR turn to see what you see and get inspired by the <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">CYCI</a> sketch. While you're there, get inspired by the other designers and the great designs that they came up with this week, too! Hope you play along, and see ya around!!</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-3537278867889212542016-02-28T03:00:00.000-08:002016-02-28T03:00:12.200-08:00CYCI #109 - hiHi there!<br />
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Betcha didn't think I'd be back, did you? To tell you the truth, I wasn't sure myself.<br />
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Turns out that I took a long and unexpected sabbatical from stampin' as we went through some major changes in life. Nothing bad, just pretty extreme. Don't worry, everything is great; the gist of it is that we sold our house and relocated to the Sacramento area. I'm sure that I'll tell you more about it in the weeks to come, but currently I'm short on time, so onto the project!!<br />
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Big thanks to <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">CanYouCaseIt.com</a> for getting me of my lazy butt to start creating again. Here's the challenge for the week:<br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9qGhOvy0wj2A1MGgG0MXzIt2bQ0MvXoSCiD_CpN5XDztsglT7d0TJ4_UIqiPkJ5nvoe0CwsZF1V0UPMV9Fgus63__Be6PNGkcRAjgLg5okg-EOzItrdmUc5o9MMr9sNOnX9Pst1VTe4/s320/cyci+109+color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And here's my card:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOWbwZnE6qCEIqjHGep7LHPaGAx_nyx5SGSdKj178fw6l46rSq_RGuv-Jge8XAKSW-JiDYA3oh2L1ks6QpUk_vz0hfv9EFGJJeYm1FF9-4C0teztRTMmeN3yJgla9r2Y9WSi6oNEDzMA/s1600/cyci+109+hi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOWbwZnE6qCEIqjHGep7LHPaGAx_nyx5SGSdKj178fw6l46rSq_RGuv-Jge8XAKSW-JiDYA3oh2L1ks6QpUk_vz0hfv9EFGJJeYm1FF9-4C0teztRTMmeN3yJgla9r2Y9WSi6oNEDzMA/s640/cyci+109+hi.JPG" width="470" /></a></div>
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I wanted to go with something simple, and liked the play on words...(get it, hi...like a kite...hi....high...yep, I went there...."hi as a kite"...get it? Lol). So I made the kite with a toothpick and some yellow tissue paper and the clouds in the background were sponged through a hand cut freehand stencil that I made. The sentiment is from Stampin' Up and embossed with White EP.</div>
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Hope you enjoy, and thanks for stopping by. Sorry for the long bout of silence, but hopefully I'll be back regularly from here on out. I really appreciate your support and I really did miss all y'all. It's good to be back!!!</div>
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:-)</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-49889886470759962292015-08-30T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-30T03:00:04.637-07:00CYCI #84 - Bro Sketch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Back Again! This time, I'm bringing you another great sketch from </span><a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">CanYouCaseIt.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. This week, we have a special announcement over on the CYCI site...We have expanded the Design Team and added a few more awesomely talented ladies! Hope you swing by and welcome them!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAqCebUiOMbh0ViczhAJZvyJX9aXsUQPecNw4xcSJenJNFhOJriVHTc0UqKNNBJY32gucWKTYG1Yddq1zYeZQDPVh69Sbch6jqUMObn9rgbX6RdMzQ3ox1qaEqir6k0MRWSC1eqc-FYQ/s400/cyci+week.jpg" width="308" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And here's my take:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0ayT6tVOJmyD3hn4B0ncOoheOQvIzTT7b1L4NXZRCmG7xr9Usz6dhalPvsdivnxfZ14IrBfZTeIQNwFw9LU0SHbVkxfZgwEB34TPEJnx3_kOy1I59h8mbJP2UtTQmMMB_lieY6BZHuk/s1600/cyci+84+bro+card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0ayT6tVOJmyD3hn4B0ncOoheOQvIzTT7b1L4NXZRCmG7xr9Usz6dhalPvsdivnxfZ14IrBfZTeIQNwFw9LU0SHbVkxfZgwEB34TPEJnx3_kOy1I59h8mbJP2UtTQmMMB_lieY6BZHuk/s640/cyci+84+bro+card.jpg" width="504" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had a lot of with this (like usual). The bulk of the black cardstock that I used actually came from the <span id="ctl00_MainContentContainer_lblItemTitle">Color Me Irresistible Specialty Designer Series Paper. I started the card with the small rectangle, and I wanted a grungy look, so I roughed up the edges. Then I started wrinkling it, then I got carried away and just started beating it up. As a result, I discovered that unlike the standard colored cardstock, this one is white in the middle! This was a cool revelation because; 1. It shows some added texture and color with the scrapes, tears, and wrinkles, and 2. I also used a piece for the Card front and achieved a consistent look just by roughing the edges. I finished off the card by masking and embossing part of the "Brother" sentiment from Guy Greetings. Even though this was a relatively quick and simple card, the end look is really graphic and dynamic. Definitely one of my faves!</span></span></div>
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<span><span style="font-size: large;">Well now I hope that you head on over to </span><a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">CanYouCaseIt.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> to see what the revamped Design team has created for your viewing pleasure. Don't forget to create your own original creation and share it with us this week! I always enjoy seeing what you come up with. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's all for now! Hope you have a great week and we'll chat again soon!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-3125156089705703772015-08-23T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-23T03:00:03.276-07:00CYCI # 83 School's Back!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm back this week with another great challenge from </span><a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">CanYouCaseIt.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you're up on my blog, you'll know that we had a very traumatic event this year...the first year of kindergarten :-( </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, as of this writing, we are past our first week and things are actually going well. Fun times are being had, no tears are being shed, and the earth keeps turning. C'est la vie.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For this back to school project, I decided to simply create a card. Once again, I have ventured outside of the proverbial box, this time by actually just revisiting the roots of card-making. As you may know from my previous projects, my style is anything but simple. My "Box" is "Outside the Box" if you will. I enjoy overcomplicating things, looking for ways to be "different," and just creating the unexpected. Well this week I unexpectedly (at least for myself) created a card with no gimmicks, just basic elements of design, embellishments, and layout. And I ended up still having a lot of fun doing it! Go figure... turns out I don't have to struggle so much to have fun, LOL! See what you think:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhM0mpFm2JwyluTyLL5U2qE0QerhDGrIXCREGrceLWWtxxvVv-dOdV0xngvteIPzg8Bi1dm-VWHRKJfbfHJIcHPUg9r1-8PIqc64OK9TbgYzx7uOqbeQl5jQXNfizPqvM2qv5b69y4Pu0/s1600/cyci+83+back+to+school.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhM0mpFm2JwyluTyLL5U2qE0QerhDGrIXCREGrceLWWtxxvVv-dOdV0xngvteIPzg8Bi1dm-VWHRKJfbfHJIcHPUg9r1-8PIqc64OK9TbgYzx7uOqbeQl5jQXNfizPqvM2qv5b69y4Pu0/s640/cyci+83+back+to+school.JPG" width="454" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before you ask, the sentiment is from an exclusive Paper Pumpkin set that is only available to SU Demonstrators... if you want to know more about it, just </span><a href="mailto:jw@stampinstud.com" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">ask me</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now it's your turn to visit CanYouCaseIt.com to get inspired to create your own Back To School project! I look forward to seeing your creations, and I hope you all have a lovely week! See you next time :-) </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-79103090509050030142015-08-16T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-16T03:00:05.097-07:00CYCI #82 Sketchy Farmer Owl<span style="font-size: large;">Hi again! It's Sunday, and that means it's time for another </span><a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">CanYouCaseIt.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> challenge! This week, we have a good old-fashioned Sketch! Check it out...</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBC97nCPaTZotBok_6jCzDoSHdruEEe0_0mW1i-wr9l4Q75S9eQOQMjRm_ctFW_vpQ12bTTWx7BfZP3akVKlX6Medslt83d2xOqte2SGz41Y7TPnrCPPtjCO-kqvZgsQULpyiVqmsGLoI/s400/cyci+week.jpg" width="307" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have discovered that I really like sketch challenges. Usually I take A LOT of creative liberties with the sketch templates, but this time I actually stayed petty true (as long as the shapes are open to interpretation, Lol!):</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWqlmbVa5Odvt5uvg_JpJ_3ngzU3vvtAIi3rqUbioEzJM9ij8wHsLQDapjpnws5cZNmg96uUgBzPANbsbMEUJrVfBxLtXZbYlGfyxQx0BMo34MFtBJdxvxneekIJqnkVzDsatYdqzTD0/s1600/cyci+82+farmer+owl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWqlmbVa5Odvt5uvg_JpJ_3ngzU3vvtAIi3rqUbioEzJM9ij8wHsLQDapjpnws5cZNmg96uUgBzPANbsbMEUJrVfBxLtXZbYlGfyxQx0BMo34MFtBJdxvxneekIJqnkVzDsatYdqzTD0/s640/cyci+82+farmer+owl.JPG" width="548" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">See!? I even used a winged creature where the butterfly was! Isn't that accurate? Just trade the rectangular sentiment with an acorn, and BAM! there you have it. I mean, who DIDN'T see a farmer owl with a straw hat holding an acorn balloon when they looked at this sketch? Anyone? Didn't think so....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I don't have time now, but let me know if you're interested in a tutorial or video on how I made the overalls. It was super simple, just 3 punches and a framelit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now head on over to </span><a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">CanYouCaseIt</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> to check out the other Farmer Owl Sketch cards that the design team made. Since they're all super talented, I bet that you'll see quite a variety of interpretation! Hope you play along :-) See y'all next week!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-82600175970785289412015-08-13T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-13T03:00:05.397-07:00OSAT Hop - Back to School Already??!?!? Yikes!<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Hi everybody! It's the second Thursday of the month, and that means it's time for a Blog Hop!! Every month I get together with some of my most talented Facebook friends (Shout out to One Stamp at a Time...OSAT in the house!!!) and we interlace our blogs with projects made using a common theme. Welcome to those of your who found me via the uber-talented </span><a href="http://wp.me/p5dZez-4vW" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Justin Krieger</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. This month, being that it is August and the summer is winding to an end...it's time to "celebrate" <strong><u><em>Back To School</em></u></strong>. Notice that "celebrate" was in "quotes." This year, around the Weber house, Back To School is tough. This year, our Baby starts Kindergarten. :-(</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I used the First Day of School as the inspiration for my project and decided to make something for my daughter to have with her as she heads out into the real world. Here's what I came up with:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUyAHH1248aRcxRbiNdlHkCAc0VAUBSvQqShkmBhrb9o__L3Ajwg-JbI_M7JgUrECOScCuhCIGW2TFZPLCpSfXsXSUIn96EVnFA7Vc66x9xdGjT4Ft9DbvTvPBy0jpmCuAvy8PcLAb2k/s1600/back+to+school+full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="614" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUyAHH1248aRcxRbiNdlHkCAc0VAUBSvQqShkmBhrb9o__L3Ajwg-JbI_M7JgUrECOScCuhCIGW2TFZPLCpSfXsXSUIn96EVnFA7Vc66x9xdGjT4Ft9DbvTvPBy0jpmCuAvy8PcLAb2k/s640/back+to+school+full.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What we have here is a mini backpack (complete with straps) made from one of my favorite tools of all time: The Gift Bag Punch Board from Stampin' Up! It's extremely simple and versatile once you get the hang of it. For this project, the top "flap" opens up and inside I have stashed a little note card and some emergency chocolate kisses. Not sure who will need them more...her or me....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, I have to get going to get ready for the Big Day. But luckily for you, there is a ton of inspiration just waiting to be had in this hop! I am privileged to be able to pass thee hop off to my buddy Holly Stene! Can't wait to see the cute stuff she's made for us :-) Just click the "Next" button below to be transported to her world. Thanks for stopping by, and wish me luck!</span><br />
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<a href="http://hollyshobbs.blogspot.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="http://hollyshobbs.blogspot.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school.html" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNAOiIheFc2ZfwsO8bJlpWHjjkM7LJsHy1a7PdTlJ3UOi11xzafnT3tC1AOl71uGW1RWaIGwFZDcYX3H8WhnNsInlZk15-h8qX4jUVZfXO06eGGBCZ7GP24VAxhg6FgVOdUaXbpJPJpk/s1600/osat+hop+next.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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Here's a map of the hop in case you get lost or are the adventurous type: </div>
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You may have come from ----> <a href="http://wp.me/p5dZez-4vW" target="_blank">Justin Krieger</a></div>
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Now you are here -----> <a href="http://stampinstud.blogspot.com/2015/08/OSAT-Aug.html" target="_blank">James Weber</a> </div>
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By clicking on the button above, you will go here -----> <a href="http://hollyshobbs.blogspot.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school.html" target="_blank">Holly Stene</a> </div>
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Then after that, you can expect....</div>
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<a href="http://wp.me/p4rPB3-1x" target="_blank">Ginger Pelfrey</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://craftsbyhappystamper.com/2015/08/13/back-to-school-osat-blog-hop/" target="_blank">Elizabeth Jeanne</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://craftsbyhappystamper.com/2015/08/13/back-to-school-osat-blog-hop/" target="_blank">Wynne Grob</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://dzinesbymeg.typepad.com/dzines_by_meg/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school-in-august.html" target="_blank">Marisa Gunn</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://craftingbuddy.blogspot.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school.html" target="_blank">Kim Smith</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.stampindreams.com/my-blog/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-its-back-to-school-in-august.html" target="_blank">Lori Mueller</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://meganttstamps.blogspot.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school.html" target="_blank">Megan Thompson</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.tinascropshop.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school.html" target="_blank">Tina Riddle</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.andreascardshop.com/new-blog-avenue/osatbloghopbacktoschool" target="_blank">Andrea Pancrazio</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://onestampinmothertucker.blogspot.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hoppers-back-to-school.html" target="_blank">Andrea Tracy-Tucker</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://martie-pollard.squarespace.com/welcome/2015/8/11/osat-back-to-school" target="_blank">Martie Pollard</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://stampandembellish.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school/" target="_blank">Diane Squires</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.maggiemadecards.com/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school/" target="_blank">Maggie Mata</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://evascardsandthings.evabussom.com/2015/08/osat-blog-hop-back-to-school.html" target="_blank">Eva Bussom</a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-60408657735482004392015-08-09T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-09T03:00:03.619-07:00CYCI #81, Watered Down Grapes<span style="font-size: large;">It's been another long week, so I was very grateful to have a chance to sit down and play with this week's </span><a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">CanYouCaseIt.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> Color Challenge!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilY1j62dGzbKg5ExiRsnlhVgby0SGs36oRihdkLFe2DlphKJ2xrupBN7WnwvrR_fpmeqmLkJf4HZfan2VVGzKhu-lsX2aW58Vl4lZjox6i41WT5wO4agvzb-OYa5yWIJkOK6wCwR2m4B4/s320/cyci+week.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Remember, don't let the colors on the graphic above sway your creativity...the challenge is open to ANY green, ANY blue, and ANY purple!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To be honest, I started out a little stumped. It seemed like a difficult color combo, but then I got a few different inspirations. If you're planning on playing along and don't want to hear my alternative takes on the color combo, just skip to the picture of my actual card. ***SPOILER ALERT*** At first I was going to use the colors to make a landscape...Blue sky with White clouds, Greenery in the background, Purple flowers. Then I thought about an underwater scene; using the octopus from Sea Street in a bright Purple over a light Blue background of water with Green seaweed floating around... I had a few others but finally decided to go with:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsoou8s9Dl_hUCXLnqBLFut06rKP38EBEPmjlaiNAN8XvpZDCwLlad6gT_bSeoWgUVQTBTWk5HCyc65wCXlAwAw_BipmlQaKELHfNesHBRwfq5tMmGQOIVmTYgaBccRA3kuYWvHNpJfNs/s1600/cyci+81+grapes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsoou8s9Dl_hUCXLnqBLFut06rKP38EBEPmjlaiNAN8XvpZDCwLlad6gT_bSeoWgUVQTBTWk5HCyc65wCXlAwAw_BipmlQaKELHfNesHBRwfq5tMmGQOIVmTYgaBccRA3kuYWvHNpJfNs/s640/cyci+81+grapes.jpg" width="458" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">...Some trusty watercolored grapes! This is an image from Stampin' Up's Market Fresh stamp set (Link to view below). I embossed it with white embossing powder and then water colored the different aspects of the image. The colors that I used were Blackberry Bliss (Purple), Old Olive (Green), Pool Party (Blue), and crushed Curry (Yellow). Ended up fussy cutting the image out to elevate it and give it dimension. Used some burlap strings to swirl around, then mounted it on layers of Whisper White and Kraft cardstock. Turned out to be a beautiful but simple card, perfect for a Thank You note to my Mom!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for stopping by! I've been working on a few new things, so poke around the blog a little bit and let me know how you like it. Check back later this week; I hope to post a little more about what I've been up to. In the meantime, be sure to share your colorful creations over at <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">canyoucaseit.com</a> and I hope you have a great week! If you are interested in getting any of the products that I used to make this card, you can see a list of all of the items that I used down below. And don't forget to check out my new Shopping page! Until we meet again...</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.stampinbuddy.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1abc9c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Table by StampinBuddy. Try it FREE.</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-18579061759000304572015-08-02T03:00:00.000-07:002015-08-02T03:00:03.185-07:00CYCI #80 Don't Fear the Creeper<br />
Hi again! It was a blast meeting many of you in Utah at the Stampin' Up! Convention! If you weren't there or I didn't have a chance to run into you; fret not, our day will come! Someday I will become a world traveler, so be sure to invite me to your hometown and I'll be sure to visit!<br />
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This week's card in brought to you by a <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">CanYouCaseIt.com</a> Sketch Challenge!<br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqCNl7vlaJnEd-xUHWRjhfhIRcv4eWBWdsjVf1j2vUO-WJ7wur72SpHGbRhDM-rN_eb6hq3HsW08svEFgTUpa3e_82cGD-8YuW_SF-SLiRex3BtTsaY193E0-i7dEgyr2vInadYvS3KQ/s400/cyci+week.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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And when I see squares, I see...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5mLKRCoBxB8RWK-YHfUtpOxgQYImYA0vBULd-1XKoXBImVZxtkktffLJ4VktDKVSY8d9L-6UdPcdbQaBx8Inj-0jRqgC8JbkRNZhJCpbfoa0ze2WHu10CaNpGsz7l_3pcval97Vskyk/s1600/cyci80+creeper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5mLKRCoBxB8RWK-YHfUtpOxgQYImYA0vBULd-1XKoXBImVZxtkktffLJ4VktDKVSY8d9L-6UdPcdbQaBx8Inj-0jRqgC8JbkRNZhJCpbfoa0ze2WHu10CaNpGsz7l_3pcval97Vskyk/s400/cyci80+creeper.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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...because once again...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tDambAu7cFXaYUznKZgCfxMYhqBVra62dnuif_DPWoNcREHeU68FsF6E_wOGq93wf7pzl1GcPULomGBQ0figd-I0sO9D6ZM54zntW2fpD1LJQT3XtY3pXdZ54mo_su97T75gQ5XFCKs/s1600/sketch+likeaboss.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tDambAu7cFXaYUznKZgCfxMYhqBVra62dnuif_DPWoNcREHeU68FsF6E_wOGq93wf7pzl1GcPULomGBQ0figd-I0sO9D6ZM54zntW2fpD1LJQT3XtY3pXdZ54mo_su97T75gQ5XFCKs/s320/sketch+likeaboss.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ok, so I really must run. I'll be back to elaborate on my card and fill you in on a few things that I'm working on...hope you check back in a few days! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-89023223742324529542015-07-23T23:41:00.002-07:002015-07-23T23:41:39.610-07:00#tgifc13 Convention Edition!HELLO!!! I'm writing this from Salt Lake City, Utah and the Stampin' Up Inspire Create Share 2015 Convention! For those of you whom I have had a chance to meet, thanks for finding me! It's been a lot of fun to see you all :-) If you are here and haven't ran into me, please keep looking!<br />
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This week I have played along with TGIFChallenges for the first time in a few weeks. <br />
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<a href="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/07/tgifc13.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/07/tgifc13.html" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aiWPCJiLn8ft79bq0l55UpAZo4qMFQhyOOIKVVMUZ3eh6uyuBcpkRAn3U3XTpYy1Pi-su91f9HTyhvMTWOPw8CsvQ1_XV8E_wchCUN6C2qsS9V41BqTzSUf2TUcsJlGDYpwNLjjTIA0/s400/tgifc13.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
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This week, we have a Clean and Simple challenge, so I figured "Why Not?" I actually made this card as I was writing the TGIF post in the hotel room with some of the supplies that we had laying around. Lol! It was actually easier for me to be limited with my materials and the theme of the challenge - usually Clean and Simple is NOT my style...I really like to over complicate things. Luckily, we got a new Christmas themed stamp set at the convention today, so I was able to misuse/repurpose the stamp set to a non-Christmas card and I ended up a happy camper (FYI, I'm definitely NOT anti-Christmas, as you know I just prefer to craft "outside of the box" and play with the versatility of my supplies).<br />
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Disclaimer: Since I made this card tonight in the hotel room, the lighting wasn't the greatest and the picture turned out "meh." I plan on retaking it once we get home, but we'll see what happens.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSkhfzeFnVRxV00usxL7rcW_SHPYvduAvKjNC-ojmW2PArDG2SISLm1szl7VRzQODlYP59nAwCuxKaUXTYSLDI5Srb7nb2Asb-tjND9YiYvC-a51ePfGktuHWYlaffV0Ux_NjEgV1BtA/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSkhfzeFnVRxV00usxL7rcW_SHPYvduAvKjNC-ojmW2PArDG2SISLm1szl7VRzQODlYP59nAwCuxKaUXTYSLDI5Srb7nb2Asb-tjND9YiYvC-a51ePfGktuHWYlaffV0Ux_NjEgV1BtA/s640/james.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is a note card sized project (3 1/2" x 5"), and the "Arrows" that I used were supposed to be trees from the brand new Your Presents Christmas themed stamp set. Curious? Excited? Here's a sneak peak:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNLJYZXqghO-XRZchcBmM9HbhyPs3A3TX-aYEFZ4kZ9SoOjaV1PtD8wygt0nj_hMopD0g94UM022Cu_HeEfPNZr6d8C8BXTfXvZ_M8baze-d2slZOy2nHC9O3PkjcCOJ3E57DKkKuQCY/s1600/conv3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNLJYZXqghO-XRZchcBmM9HbhyPs3A3TX-aYEFZ4kZ9SoOjaV1PtD8wygt0nj_hMopD0g94UM022Cu_HeEfPNZr6d8C8BXTfXvZ_M8baze-d2slZOy2nHC9O3PkjcCOJ3E57DKkKuQCY/s400/conv3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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And here's a peek at our pop-up craft room:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNtVAdhkqvIpDcxqlUk4qzaReyGR-8GM__oXkrT_t3XMZjtRo69NAW9p3u3IKgRprwIAG5mWi_b7NtDyhoHbmghqPtTfHxpOnamQlAURyD3gGOLa81iN7kJ6WFpPVMDy6gz5g7KSosW4/s1600/conv1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNtVAdhkqvIpDcxqlUk4qzaReyGR-8GM__oXkrT_t3XMZjtRo69NAW9p3u3IKgRprwIAG5mWi_b7NtDyhoHbmghqPtTfHxpOnamQlAURyD3gGOLa81iN7kJ6WFpPVMDy6gz5g7KSosW4/s640/conv1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Good thing they accidentally gave us a room with 2 beds! Now we have an extra crafting station! Lol!</div>
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Ok, that's it for now. Hope you visit <a href="http://tgifchallenges.com/">TGIFChallenges.com</a> and play along with the Clean and Simple challenge, or at least stop by and see what the Designers have created. It's the first week that we have had ALL of our designers join in, so its definitely worth seeing. For my fellow convention attendees, look forward to meeting you tomorrow! Good night!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-14348811193910113332015-07-19T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-19T03:00:03.182-07:00CYCI #79 Bunny Dreams<br />
The annual Stampin' Up! convention is this week! So much to do to get ready. I hope to see you there! If you're planning on going, please visit our <a href="http://tgifchallenges.com/">TGIFChallenges.com</a> site to get some info on a give-away that we're doing while we're there... Hope you come and find me; I'd love to meet you :-)<br />
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In the meantime, and for those of you who sadly cannot make it to Salt Lake City, here is the latest <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">CanYouCaseIt.com</a> challenge! In honour of the convention, this week is a free-fo-all Designers' Choice!<br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93SpmVW5S6Tvu3DNg0frGcGGXJFT-u68mq8mOd5AQtLGbrd8zZ3d2tixdKo4sVP_YWQToAYZKVb3LyL6YcJxmXuFTHfCj3bbveSVDmt9bY8OBud9q2FqO_KHHJbYiUn3kew12JBN9bVM/s400/cyci+week.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was playing around with the new products and had a lot of fun with the new Farmer's Market DSP:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5zLLjQlalmL_sbjKSYhWAyRtmMRiuxdSfR2PkvP-TfyfF5SDFOEAMniQj0rNSIn1yDpCO5ELQQUCTvy3GEJwVNT9y7jFcqMjyTWTqguWs9Gsx4CUz-2MqIfycAgbCIINkm6x1P4Cksg/s1600/cyci+79+choice.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5zLLjQlalmL_sbjKSYhWAyRtmMRiuxdSfR2PkvP-TfyfF5SDFOEAMniQj0rNSIn1yDpCO5ELQQUCTvy3GEJwVNT9y7jFcqMjyTWTqguWs9Gsx4CUz-2MqIfycAgbCIINkm6x1P4Cksg/s640/cyci+79+choice.JPG" width="434" /></a></div>
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I know it was a little predictable...I mean who <em><u>doesn't</u></em> see veggies falling from the sky and think of a dreaming bunny when they see this paper? I know I usually try to design "outside the box" but this time I had to just follow my instinct and go with the flow. I think it turned out super cute; definitely one of my favorite cards so far!</div>
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Well I still have a lot to do to get ready for our pilgrimage, so I'll be cutting my post short this week. Hope to meet you soon, or if not I'll be back on the blog in a week or so, most likely with a few stories and goodies to share about the trip. See you then!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-39399323787201500202015-07-13T23:54:00.001-07:002015-07-13T23:54:27.195-07:00#TGIFCTD02 I Was Ready for a Throwdown!!Hi there! So I have realized that there are 2 groups of people reading this...there are those of you who know about TGIF Challenges and those of you who don't. If you are one of the ones that don't, DON'T WORRY! There's still hope for you! Just visit <a href="http://tgifchallenges.com/">TGIFChallenges.com</a> to catch up, then come back and keep on reading to tie it all together. I'll be waiting....<br />
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Ok, now that y'all know about the Challenges, are you excited about the Throwdown? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5PCX2rHBJVqq7IkkI06DtSzktkl012HGSkQaG8P5apNRjXMOHLj7ALbp8VoxxLTNf1KHTvtHbFfkQuiDbT5yI5RFRSrXeJyy-EcaVFIAD9oPZ6vz0b_Or2dSNG7iadZBg1WouAIVjYk/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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<a href="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/07/tgifctd02-week2.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/07/tgifctd02-week2.html" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAXIYqx-tdvnHYlJ4rXZNWq_FakcZp-2Jh4BOtcGJ-FLLo4DntjGQvrHPnbzJKW1hGck_mk7omREG3YUrJrAeFB5YzhlTXF75iN8blj7fYS3OoTi4SckHFCgcRIfxKqUEesN9py-ZvUo/s400/td02.jpg" width="277" /></a></div>
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We're super happy about how it's working out. And this week I actually had a chance to try it out and play along! I now know that it is right up my alley; I think that having a limited pool to pick from actually stretched my creativity and made it a lot of fun to figure something out. If you haven't tried it out yet, I sincerely encourage you to just give it a shot! So now onto my card: <br />
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Just kidding! First, remember that I had a very limited list of supplies to choose from. As a reminder, these were my options:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qoeXs6coR51tH2f8HzwPJ1Gc_CpOeZ010UfAC13o7ydl6smcxH6EseYhxkQCEXQlvLKzTjXsaD4GEqxiXxxAEC1XDbhuvqRbCzMkuYlOvEn5nRnHge93LLVZgPmP3LywaqqY66knEqs/s1600/basket+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qoeXs6coR51tH2f8HzwPJ1Gc_CpOeZ010UfAC13o7ydl6smcxH6EseYhxkQCEXQlvLKzTjXsaD4GEqxiXxxAEC1XDbhuvqRbCzMkuYlOvEn5nRnHge93LLVZgPmP3LywaqqY66knEqs/s400/basket+02.jpg" width="376" /></a></div>
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And now, onto my card:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCab0CdpGCmozL0sMPy1BG_1zxU4qWOq2xl1FONP3agTO5FicmddhHrNEGyjbBISOL3NrwJWmJZKvPeRfNXhI24JB3Wu3jhsDMwSccXCHjvb_XOdQE3eVXwuDAjc8hb5ZIILIyfWqgVx8/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCab0CdpGCmozL0sMPy1BG_1zxU4qWOq2xl1FONP3agTO5FicmddhHrNEGyjbBISOL3NrwJWmJZKvPeRfNXhI24JB3Wu3jhsDMwSccXCHjvb_XOdQE3eVXwuDAjc8hb5ZIILIyfWqgVx8/s640/james.JPG" width="500" /></a></div>
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As I am writing this, I realize that I used all of the basket ingredients!! Yay, Me!! You can find the Typeset DSP, Delightful Dijon, Pool Party, Balloon Framelits, Black cardstock, and the Bravo stamp set! Woop Woop!! Lol :-D</div>
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On the TGIF Blog I am paired up with the Colourful Shannon Lane, so head on over to check out her project, check out the other entries, check out our first finalist, and check out your own entry after you play along, too! Just click <a href="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/07/tgifctd02-week2.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> and a door to a land of wonders will open......</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-61209611241698133452015-07-12T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-12T03:00:00.531-07:00CYCI #78 Ju{Halloween}ly (<---Yep, I did it again)It's Sunday! You know what that means... <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">CanYouCaseIt</a> has a new challenge for us! This week is a unique twist on a color challenge:<br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbwoipXI9S_Jwb5C4asfdxnk3j9gRsvwQbnBH-RBtzVTjZHqIV5jKWhKT-W3PxdK3yffqkwSU4zNPpNTN9chRLkPTV93yGzVG8H6iQ3aRloZXorpkcZnMjXwupuYkrGEYLF2nzHWA9a8/s400/cyci+week.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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That's right! You pick the color, but only ONE! Oh yeah, make sure it goes good with black and white. Sounds fun, right? Well then please be sure to visit CYCI and enter your own creation! Here's mine....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6AH7neLZdhbLzh-iACDdwO7DFZZTAnC5x-U9NN6X27Ndz6ftraBxyMhSXVchk3jbBikd6W-eJUlFr6HUzzXvI2lHCNXUETIwNjx7HYQfUlqMa3tCwU6kUB5vDT5TJBRQtnpwKEvt52M/s1600/cyci78+colour.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6AH7neLZdhbLzh-iACDdwO7DFZZTAnC5x-U9NN6X27Ndz6ftraBxyMhSXVchk3jbBikd6W-eJUlFr6HUzzXvI2lHCNXUETIwNjx7HYQfUlqMa3tCwU6kUB5vDT5TJBRQtnpwKEvt52M/s640/cyci78+colour.JPG" width="422" /></a></div>
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So my ONE color was actually the Blackberry Bliss (purple)...the orange tissue doesn't count because it was just part of the stuffing of the bag, ok? And the silver doesn't count as a color because it's silver, right? Ok good, just so we're clear. </div>
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I'm not sure if you caught my last post about Christmas in July (if not, you can catch up <a href="http://stampinstud.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-july.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>), but I actually got my inspiration for this bag from making that card. As I was looking through the current Christmas sets for a sentiment, I found the Merry Everything set and this Dracula stamp caught my eye. I was looking for an excuse to use it, and this color challenge was perfect! I used the Striped Scallop Framelit to create the spider webs and the gift Bag Punchboard to create the bag. </div>
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Hope you come and check out <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">canyoucaseit.com</a> to see what the rest of the team made. They are some truly talented folks! While you're there, come and play along! What color will <u>YOU</u> pick? </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-63323688751649956352015-07-09T03:30:00.000-07:002015-07-09T03:30:02.067-07:00OSAT Ju{Christmas}ly: (<---Christmas in July; get it??)<br />
Hello, and welcome to another month of hoppiness with our wonderful group of stampers! You may have been directed here by the lovely Lori @ <a href="http://stampindreams.com/">StampinDreams.com</a> or another one of our OSAT hoppees, in which case you already know what this is all about and may proceed directly to my Christmas in July card! <br />
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If you are starting the hop here, then welcome! You are in for a special treat today; you have landed in the middle of a blog hop! That's right, there are about 20 stampers that have gotten together just to make projects to share with <u>YOU!</u> Our theme this week is Christmas in July and here is my offering:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwi8H1cHrQDwk_cymV5OfwSvAb-FzeS7IXN6xYr_uX58hZmD8qai78e9B0GGzYJFKkxVvqAGNeCrOufUt8F3XYGLxQiFz5Tp9hagcIG-Osuo2jTmkw9lVBfbIKKNvEmNf_nzeyCdDc1s/s1600/osat+july+christmas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwi8H1cHrQDwk_cymV5OfwSvAb-FzeS7IXN6xYr_uX58hZmD8qai78e9B0GGzYJFKkxVvqAGNeCrOufUt8F3XYGLxQiFz5Tp9hagcIG-Osuo2jTmkw9lVBfbIKKNvEmNf_nzeyCdDc1s/s640/osat+july+christmas.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I consider myself to be fairly festive, but I was a little confused by the whole Christmas in July Theme. Now don't get me wrong, I'm definitely no Scrooge McDuck, but I just was unsure if there is a difference between "Christmas in December" and "Christmas in July"...and from what I have gathered there really isn't. Correct me if I'm wrong, but is "Christmas in July" kinda just "Christmas isn't here yet but I want to celebrate anyway?" I guess I'm still confused... but I must admit that I have become a fan of Christmas in July, whatever the meaning may be! It was fun to make a Christmas card in the summertime, and it would be even FUNNER to get some presents next (hint, hint), Lol! </div>
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True to my style, I needed to over-complicate and use mostly non-Christmas products to make this card. I grabbed the Build a Birthday set and the Farmer's Market DSP. I made a strand of Christmas lights with the Build a Birthday candle and hung it on my Farmer's Market fence. Finished it off with a sentiment from the Merry Everything stamp set which I coloured with markers to add some festive lighting to the border. It ended up being a pretty simple card overall, but it certainly satisfied my vision of how I hoped it would turn out :-) <br />
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Christmas in July ended up being contagious. As I was making my card, my protégé ;-) also joined the fun and created a set to share with you! You'll have to visit {<a href="http://www.mercedesweber.com/" target="_blank">her blog</a>} in a few days to hear more about it:</div>
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<a href="http://www.mercedesweber.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.mercedesweber.com" border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEyJ6lVd-po_nxzR-gPOJwVQPqAYmpPf7Y3fHY2OQAJ1uqyz-W3dnvMiTjNhlDiprUbrs0bkJzBvXFL0lueI0ShB4eMZcmY1Lp5BKtlvPZBITmcMJVkqRvQiz2HVAVDzz1-I7PiGrvbec/s640/osat+july+paper+paradise.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So thanks for joining us! Up next is the very talented <a href="http://jkcardsonline.com/" target="_blank">Justin Krieger</a>! Just click on the button below to visit him, or if you've lost your way through this hop, there is a map below!</div>
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<a href="http://jkcardsonline.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="http://jkcardsonline.com/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWB-_rVT5aOv3Lx-rOzav0kK9A9g6Iszh9KntEk2mWtyzV8nbD9DD_EpUUByBlubO0kOVIyeHUAsEBHODMcc5q93ui_5NdIYxnaNUS26F-PQ8PjOfLKgQzGUUi8UdGsaKwOliRdWfq0wI/s1600/osat+hop+next.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://jkcardsonline.com/"></a> </div>
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Here's the itinerary:</div>
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You may have come from ---><a href="http://www.stampindreams.com/my-blog/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Lori</a> </div>
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But now you are here ---> <a href="http://stampinstud.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-july.html" target="_blank">James</a> </div>
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Next is ----> <a href="http://jkcardsonline.com/" target="_blank">Justin</a> </div>
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And then ----> <a href="http://www.maggiemadecards.com/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july/" target="_blank">Maggie</a> <br />
And so on...</div>
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<a href="http://craftingbuddy.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Kim</a> </div>
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<a href="http://craftsbyhappystamper.com/2015/07/09/christmas-in-july-osat-blog-hop" target="_blank">Elizabeth</a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.tinascropshop.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Tina</a> </div>
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<a href="http://onestampinmothertucker.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Andrea</a> </div>
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<a href="https://www.andreascardshop.com/new-blog-avenue/2015/7/2/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july" target="_blank">Andrea</a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.davdesigns.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Debra</a> </div>
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<a href="http://cropsscissorspaper.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Wynne</a> </div>
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<a href="http://rutabagapiedesigns.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-july-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">AJ</a> </div>
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<a href="http://meganttstamps.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Megan</a> </div>
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<a href="http://hollyshobbs.blogspot.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Holly</a> </div>
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<a href="https://martie-pollard.squarespace.com/welcome/2015/7/7/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july" target="_blank">Martie</a> </div>
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<a href="http://wp.me/p4rPB3-18" target="_blank">Ginger</a> </div>
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<a href="http://stampandembellish.com/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july" target="_blank">Diane</a> </div>
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<a href="http://dzinesbymeg.typepad.com/dzines_by_meg/2015/07/osat-blog-hop-christmas-in-july.html" target="_blank">Marisa</a> <br />
And then do it all over again!<br />
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Cheers!!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-50302260649444704652015-07-05T03:00:00.000-07:002015-07-05T03:00:03.181-07:00CYCI #77 Sketching Out a Party with a Cherry On TopHowdy! Thanks for joining me for another <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">CanYouCaseIt</a> sketch challenge, brought to you by <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">CanYouCaseIt.com</a>:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHP4-a3r8QSvruc1sdcVmk9N3qf46OKQ_twzJF8bpz5FeJXV82iZK1rQy_MmRC2gHhIFxmHd0EB0Sw8ZvsR7_g0vxjAcLk3KGxZ4zMY71WtBCArIwTMHRsfcaVDA3PAyP0yS4hwhzD2XQ/s1600/cyci+77+sketch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8UL03aWGr_PsJEtjy-vb4uf28w9aVGzNw8n3FXaH-icPPWnkRWaiyC6DiKV8iY5GYan-MwuGGyBMqzGnlHh5SsKnkCI07_A5A75i16zbdnQWMpzwc1rRpYw5iaiCYcjwySTAELTzQ6I/s400/cyci+week.jpg" width="307" /></a></div>
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This week's card was a pleasure for me to make...reminded me of some classic Stampin' Stud fun! See what you think:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmx9s9LMr1iNUXkB_DosPJ-DoE-wBsNiD-Ti7sxhEgyEkH1qNgWaGiJvtmspzeLY9Rz0RqtrcjgqGdFtGj-oOHQaEUAm6QvqNUS_glRokgzmMXaMdI2o8PPyUmZ-PFk3oFxRBX-rhuUS8/s1600/cyci+77+sketch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmx9s9LMr1iNUXkB_DosPJ-DoE-wBsNiD-Ti7sxhEgyEkH1qNgWaGiJvtmspzeLY9Rz0RqtrcjgqGdFtGj-oOHQaEUAm6QvqNUS_glRokgzmMXaMdI2o8PPyUmZ-PFk3oFxRBX-rhuUS8/s640/cyci+77+sketch.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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Ever since I started stampin', one of my favorite things to do was to create "outside of the box" just by trying to alter stamps or papers or even repurpose images or sentiments for something other than their original design. I think that I succeeded this week with the Simply Sports stamp set. I saw the sketch and knew that I wanted to use the Cherry On Top paper, and I also knew that I wanted to celebrate the idea of a party. My first thought was actually to try my hand at a scrapbook page, with two panels leading up to a party and the last panel being a picture of one of my daughters having a blast at a party. I started looking through a stash of pics and couldn't find any that would work with my vision, so I started looking for stamp sets that showed people "having a good time." Seriously, just ask my wife and she could tell you that I was driving her crazy that day, saying "do you have any stamps of people having a good time?' until I saw Simply Sports. Now, I know that "party" doesn't jump out at you when you first see the stamp set, but that's what I love about it! If stick figures aren't versatile, then I don't know what is, right? Oh yeah, just in case you're wondering... the music notes and piñata were just drawn and cut free hand style. I also drove my wife crazy that day asking for a tiny horse or piñata stamp, Lol!</div>
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Well I hope that you enjoyed my card as much as I had fun making it! If I can offer any inspiration from it, hopefully it is just to empower you to not limit your creativity to any comfort zone or preconceived ideas; creativity has no limits or "boxes" and often times it's the "crazy idea" that ends up being the most successful. </div>
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Hope you have a chance to try out the sketch challenge this week, and along with that, why not try something "outside of the box?" Take it as another challenge...be creative, be original, try something new! Trust me, it's fun! Visit <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">canyoucaseit.com</a> to share your projects, and best of luck to ya!!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-54426501727201353522015-06-28T03:00:00.000-07:002015-06-28T03:00:03.275-07:00CYCI #76 I Think You're Great, In Colors!Here comes another short and sweet post...for reals. This weekend is our 11th wedding anniversary and as I write this we're headed out to celebrate what's sure to be a splendidly romantic getaway! As you read this, we're already back, and it sure was splendidly romantic! Thanks for caring :-)<br />
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This week <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">canyoucaseit.com</a> brings us a color challenge, using Stampin' Up's new In Colors! Which are your favorites? Don't tell me...SHOW US!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaiSNxlXTAoF_DlWMMPpZbn9M_Ais1OF6WG9H9ouvnMhl4YmwGxQu26HSkYFxJ7AmDAaNtwslxnCcAdeJGX6gZCiypcMXCvTDFF2joqma3sBrHsDp3bwY3OUu5CE-WhXhmw1Mt2lUAtI/s640/cyci+week.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here are a few of my faves, along with the great I Think You're Great stamp set which I think is great!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBq568Z-X910pKGlRjZWj9zdtjTdNU3Hc345C9emZ1QTxmcqULqQWGB73tmr6ENZnFVyOSS1RNwTb6ZPutjOs7ZGKP_Y-JFSNfbiQVw4CGMnKMY71_KwC9uh197MUO_GAjIeQwEsMabQ/s1600/cyci+76+in+colors.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBq568Z-X910pKGlRjZWj9zdtjTdNU3Hc345C9emZ1QTxmcqULqQWGB73tmr6ENZnFVyOSS1RNwTb6ZPutjOs7ZGKP_Y-JFSNfbiQVw4CGMnKMY71_KwC9uh197MUO_GAjIeQwEsMabQ/s640/cyci+76+in+colors.JPG" width="472" /></a></div>
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Ok, so if you're a regular reader I know you'll be shocked at what I'm about to say...</div>
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That's all, folks! I'm outta here!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-74972388348985313802015-06-21T03:00:00.000-07:002015-06-21T09:11:26.688-07:00CYCI #75 Sketchy Schoolhouse SceneWelcome back, me! I've realized that it's been a while since I've been around. I guess I had a dry streak for a few weeks now. Sorry 'bout that. Just been busy with the good ol' 9-5 and life in general. Plus I hit a little creative block :-( Don't really know why, but I guess it happens, right? Well, I knew it couldn't last for long, or the Keeper would come a-knockin' (don't understand that reference? Read my back story <a href="http://stampinstud.blogspot.com/2015/03/awesome-adventurous-curious-goat.html" target="_blank">HERE)</a>. Thankfully <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">CYCI</a> came along, got me off my lazy butt, and back to my desk I went. Thanks CYCI! Check out this week's challenge; it's a sketch design by <a href="http://territerbear.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Terri T</a>.:<br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFNz6qho26CfFTQLSJWDh59Da7VN-UrCv6R2uSncVe_IczlCS5qBHeZC5IizSaYNJTXjRdl181-MB7z5MAX1SDcnVUhcVlcwc5mR1YwpdTMxmN5bnqfVFfuTSW6eqkV8hwDA2EWBv8Pk/s400/CYCI1.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Or as <u><em>I</em></u> saw it:</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELXMW-2uHNYDC4Pt7-TiRlIcjese8pgiqo_6RQxPUPv3fD2nZ0BnS9vClk4j2hwfEsUYBz-5CVATA-h2QrdOUxCL9XAyohrijvSm1Y14GdE9mGUmN8uf6iS4-g2-xF37qIjG_MZZ7qXI/s400/CYCI1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Because, remember...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdfaIDCHDANlwaVnYjbJjhS8wqcEiF4-dkzpmgqfGTe1tEdVCcZWDHDHlNbMMZBOUsa8ribLS3qc5tJ_k56-xut1OULAuZsLbLOWrx6V0zuDxVK91SRL7kNLWnvVfHsNW5IZZqQ-dsb0/s1600/sketch+likeaboss.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdfaIDCHDANlwaVnYjbJjhS8wqcEiF4-dkzpmgqfGTe1tEdVCcZWDHDHlNbMMZBOUsa8ribLS3qc5tJ_k56-xut1OULAuZsLbLOWrx6V0zuDxVK91SRL7kNLWnvVfHsNW5IZZqQ-dsb0/s320/sketch+likeaboss.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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...and I'll turn it if I want to. And so can you. Just tell them I said it's ok.</div>
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So here's what I made:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3-RVoeIuw6XjWgz4CIJMyfL98inKNeTwwt1U7fIqRzDaQbSB0HtKed9TT6d5gjhU2KGkcQrskvB39UgMHMtj7wbjSdNXK7iQD2uwxOLAio0SMlOxyijmGJWdJRJbJzptzfyf-fSH7f8/s1600/cyci+75+sketch+scene.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3-RVoeIuw6XjWgz4CIJMyfL98inKNeTwwt1U7fIqRzDaQbSB0HtKed9TT6d5gjhU2KGkcQrskvB39UgMHMtj7wbjSdNXK7iQD2uwxOLAio0SMlOxyijmGJWdJRJbJzptzfyf-fSH7f8/s640/cyci+75+sketch+scene.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I first saw the design of the sketch, I knew that I needed to use some DSP (Designer Series Paper). As I looked through our rack, this one popped out at me. It's Stampin Up's new Schoolhouse design, and I've been eyeing the bikes since the first time that I saw them. Yes, if you aren't familiar with the paper, everything on this card except for the green grass and the white card base (and the sentiment) is part of the paper pack. I just felt like having a little fun and getting artsy, so I made a nice summer day to share with someone. I think it turned out pretty swell! In fact, I thought that it would end up a little more abstract then it did, but surprisingly the scene is really readable! <br />
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I had a lot of fun putting this together, and I had almost forgotten that this is why I started stamping in the first place... it's a way to relax and have fun! Never forget that. Need a break? Just stamp. Stressed out? Just start stampin'. Lost your mojo? Stamp anyway. Need inspiration? Visit <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">CanYouCaseIt.com</a> and stamp along with their weekly challenge. Not a stamper? Not too late to start. Need a stampin' buddy? I'll be there for you. Feeling down? Get our some stuff and stamp your blues away. Feeling happy? Share your happiness though stampin'. Feeling thirsty? Drink some water and be careful not to spill it on your stamping spot. Make sure you have a coaster handy. Ok, maybe I went too far, but you get the gist: Stamping saves lives. Peace out.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-11936486287294849882015-06-11T03:00:00.000-07:002015-06-20T23:23:52.487-07:00OSAT Bro Style - for a Dude, from a Dude (kinda)Hello Hoppers, welcome back to another round of Hopping! If you are starting here, the theme of our blog hop this month is "Masculine." But if you have hopped here from the very talented <a href="http://www.stampindreams.com/my-blog/2015/06/osat-blog-hoppers-celebrate-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Lori Mueller</a> (or another Hop Host), then of course you already knew that!<br />
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With Father's Day coming up, it's a great time to showcase cards/projects for guys. But really, Father's Day cannot be the only occasion throughout the year when a dude needs to be celebrated or recognized. Think birthdays, promotions, umm.... birthdays, .... etc. (Either I cant think of anything else or I just don't want to give all the answers away. You pick.) So this week, I decided to highlight something that could bee given to a buddy, co-worker, brother, or any other "Bro."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh7FF_9SI1_UXFAT-e87LU2huqFaEgEGf_ei0wGhjJ_rsV7VaRUA5mfXTXSLVMzohk76xTIMfoiY-9KndTFzWPFKnSg-VkzjFEtpVNUm05u8hxJ4hcW56X3IbeFMaKkJQJYNrTU-SEezk/s1600/osat+man+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh7FF_9SI1_UXFAT-e87LU2huqFaEgEGf_ei0wGhjJ_rsV7VaRUA5mfXTXSLVMzohk76xTIMfoiY-9KndTFzWPFKnSg-VkzjFEtpVNUm05u8hxJ4hcW56X3IbeFMaKkJQJYNrTU-SEezk/s640/osat+man+1.JPG" width="572" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3RM8jCm4by2as_OOvr7q-7ONKbwglenHBOncSOcwjSDWi_yWuthy_-1hDUo511amvtlocnphiiq2paSt140qj3-Zl46TDq77dJ47rDDpITNdPLBiZuAWpsfE9GPXWus2P7W9nIOu0b4/s1600/osat+man+card.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3RM8jCm4by2as_OOvr7q-7ONKbwglenHBOncSOcwjSDWi_yWuthy_-1hDUo511amvtlocnphiiq2paSt140qj3-Zl46TDq77dJ47rDDpITNdPLBiZuAWpsfE9GPXWus2P7W9nIOu0b4/s640/osat+man+card.JPG" width="458" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRGqI-I_8GcqUiX2cTWfi2X8PbAUU-emZglbUP_tfWQwXDbq8qrj2pk38RjjBZsEfqxygv4Ggsz7QkCSj-s7AwI5oAoB8u-H1eYqFCWuMFO32QRESFF2EJWPQNspI73XH5rW9Ctuo5ks/s1600/osat+man+bottle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRGqI-I_8GcqUiX2cTWfi2X8PbAUU-emZglbUP_tfWQwXDbq8qrj2pk38RjjBZsEfqxygv4Ggsz7QkCSj-s7AwI5oAoB8u-H1eYqFCWuMFO32QRESFF2EJWPQNspI73XH5rW9Ctuo5ks/s640/osat+man+bottle.JPG" width="402" /></a></div>
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All supplies are Stampin" Up!</div>
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The textured/lined paper is the new Kraft corrugated paper</div>
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The "Bro" and "#BDAY" is made with the Layered Letters set</div>
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The sentiments are from Words of Truth</div>
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And the washi tape is part of the Everyday Chic collection</div>
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I have a confession to make. I have to tell you something but you have to promise that you won't be mad. Promise? Ok, here it goes. I kinda cheated and had help with these projects. There, I said it. This week was supposed to be easy peasy, since I'm a dude and I needed to make a dude card. The problem was that I'm a dude and I waited until the last minute to start my project. So between my non-crafty schedule and my other life events, I was exhausted and didn't have time to finish my stuff. I was literally dozing off as I was stamping. I even ruined a Versamark pad because I forgot to clean off a stamp before I went to start embossing. Such a schmuck. I almost had to miss the hop, but thankfully, I'm not the only crafty one around here. My amazing better half was able to swoop in and save the day with her awesomeness! So instead of having to share an unfinished product with you, I get to share one of the first ever Stampin' Stud/<a href="http://www.mercedesweber.com/" target="_blank">Paper Paradise</a> hybrid collaborations! How could you possibly be mad about that? Thanks, sweetie! Don't know what I'd do without you :-)</div>
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Now that my conscious is clear, back to the hop...</div>
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I hope that we have been able to do our part and give you some inspiration to go and celebrate a special guy in your life. You don't need to wait for Father's Day to put away the flower stamps. Don't be afraid to trade in the purples and pinks for grays and blues (or yellows and silvers). Any time is a good time to play around and make a man-card. I can tell you (as a guy) that it will be appreciated.</div>
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So please continue on the hopping journey to another of my talented friends, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/Ginger%20Pelfrey%20--%20http://myheartspleasure.wordpress.com/2015/06/11/osat-blog-hop-fathers-day/" target="_blank">Ms. Ginger Pelfrey</a>! See what kind of manly offerings she has to share, then continue on your way until you make it full circle. You won't be disappointed and neither will the dudes in your life. </div>
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<a href="http://myheartspleasure.wordpress.com/2015/06/11/osat-blog-hop-fathers-day/" target="_blank"><img alt="http://myheartspleasure.wordpress.com/2015/06/11/osat-blog-hop-fathers-day/" border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9fnPdpp1W52rUDeNJIP-eQMBUVRw3uPiSwHcbwBJLNCMQdw4BFItwRNlZrqI-r5xCU2TvWzPJu8jL-IU17qNoEG9oKvWaazpT2yu7IpeVSl7O88DnIuMEFk2mF6bJOSjBXUQVwR8JU4/s320/osat+hop+next.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And if you lose your way through the hop, no need to stop and ask for directions... I have given you a road map to follow! (see what I did there? I tied in a male stereotype about stopping to ask for directions. Aren't I clever?)</div>
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Here's the itinerary:</div>
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You are here ---> <a href="http://stampinstud.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-masculine.html" target="_blank">James</a></div>
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Next is ----> <a href="http://myheartspleasure.wordpress.com/2015/06/11/osat-blog-hop-fathers-day/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ginger</a> </div>
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And then ----> <a href="http://jkcardsonline.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-happy-fathers-day/" target="_blank">Justin</a>- </div>
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And so on...<br />
<a href="http://onestampinmothertucker.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-happy-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Andrea</a></div>
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<a href="http://stampinwithdarlaandsisters.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hoppers-happy-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Darla</a> </div>
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<a href="http://meganttstamps.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-happy-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Megan</a> </div>
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<a href="http://craftsbyhappystamper.com/2015/06/11/osat-fathers-day-masculine-themed-blog-hop" target="_blank">Elizabeth</a></div>
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<a href="http://mycraftyside1.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Wynne</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.davdesigns.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-happy-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Debra</a> </div>
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<a href="http://dzinesbymeg.typepad.com/dzines_by_meg/2015/06/osat-blog-hoppers-happy-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Marisa</a></div>
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<a href="http://hollyshobbs.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Holly</a> </div>
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<a href="http://rutabagapiedesigns.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-june-blog-hop-happy-fathers-day-or.html" target="_blank">AJ</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.andreascardshop.com/new-blog-avenue/2015/6/5/osat-blog-hoppers-happy-fat" target="_blank">Andrea</a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.maggiemadecards.com/osat-blog-hop-happy-fathers-day/" target="_blank">Maggie</a> </div>
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<a href="http://craftingbuddy.blogspot.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-masculine-card.html" target="_blank">Kim</a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.tinascropshop.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-happy-fathers-day-or.html" target="_blank">Tina</a> <br />
<a href="http://martie-pollard.squarespace.com/welcome/2015/6/9/osat-fathers-day-blog-hop" target="_blank">Martie</a> </div>
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<a href="http://stampandembellish.com/2015/06/osat-blog-hop-fathers-daymasculine" target="_blank">Diane </a></div>
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<a href="http://www.stampindreams.com/my-blog/2015/06/osat-blog-hoppers-celebrate-fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Lori</a> </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-34891992258034392132015-06-07T03:00:00.000-07:002015-06-09T00:28:56.514-07:00CYCI #73 Am I Blushing?Howdy! Be forewarned...I'm long-winded tonight. Shocker!<br />
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Glad you made it for another edition of a <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">CanYouCaseIt.com</a> challenge! This week, we have a color challenge: <br />
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWrgK0mvsAFwUqWroUpsMAfpUfhWvRI4GdldRWfgJnYZRx-7t4TgQ-yuN9Klf53mimF9LJvxXfRgWpceIe6zcV4w1pqCc4dv_WSvPMZ4ZGY5aSUw9sfq7f_rtOww2zEqD2FRIT2_WtUuE/s400/CYCI1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So I was actually stuck on this challenge. I did what I normally do when faced with a color challenge; I pull the ink pads and cardstock, lay it out on my desk, and stare at it until I see an image that I can use for inspiration (maybe something underwater, a circus tent, an animal, etc.) then I grab a few stamps sets to go with my vision and get to work. This one wasn't that easy. It started out just fine...the laying out of the colors and the staring was no problem! Actually, I'm lying. It kind of was a problem. Well not really lying, I just forgot something that happened...wanna hear about it? Feel free to journey into my world....</div>
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I'm not sure if most of you know about my creative lifestyle and habits. Let me share with you. I'll start with the basics. My wife is a stamper. She's been doing Stampin' Up! for over 10 years. Needless to say, she has accumulated many things. Like any creative person, she is "creatively organized." Which works out great for her. Now here I come. I start stamping a few months ago, and now what is hers is also mine to use. Luckily, I have paid some degree of attention to her hobby/business through the years, and I am somewhat familiar with the supplies and general gist of cardmaking. So when we stamp together, it's easy for me to ask her to hand me some washi tape or baker's twine, or have her tell me where the embossing folder is, and especially be able to answer the ever important "What color paper is this? Island Indigo or Pacific Point? Crushed Curry or Daffodil Delight?" Now fast forward to current times. What started off as just stamping with her when she stamps has turned into me doing my thing and her doing hers. She'll say "I have a blog post due on Wednesday and I haven't made my card yet," and I'll think "Oh, crap! I have to make a card tonight because I have a blog hop tomorrow!" But then she says "Well I'll just have to make something tomorrow," and I think "Oh crap! I need to go to work tomorrow! I still need to make a card tonight!" You see, I have a more-than-fulltime demanding job. Plus a wonderful family of 3 daughters and an amazing wife to give my attention to when I'm not working. So when do I stamp? Usually after 10pm. Yep. Which is actually pretty nice. It's quiet and it's fairly relaxing - until I hit a creative block and have a project due the next day with no inspiration to create...those nights are NOT so relaxing. Since I tend to procrastinate and wait to make a project until the night before it's due, failure is not an option. Neither is not being in the mood. Good thing I'm more of a night person anyway. So back to my life... I start stamping around 10pm, and it takes a while for the creative juices to get flowing. So it's usually around 11 or 12 by the time I'm in the zone. And can you guess what happens then? I need something for my card. And by that time, I can't ask anyone for washi tape, or baker's twine, or if Coastal Cabana has retired yet (sadly, I do know the answer to that one) because I'm the only one awake. So much of my time is spent searching. And searching. And looking at stampinup.com to see if product is current. Then searching some more. Then looking through the catalog to see if there's an embellishment that would work with my card. And if there is, it's usually a blessing and a curse. The good part is that there's an embellishment that would work with my card. The bad part is that now I have to find it! Lol! </div>
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What does this have to do with the color challenge, you ask? Well, the colour combo is Blushing Bride, Sahara Sand, and Basic Black. I hadn't ever used Blushing Bride <u>or</u> Sahara Sand. In fact, I actually had to leave our craft room just to find those ink pads out in the "secondary" ink caddy in the spare room. They were among colors like Creamy Caramel, Eggplant Envy, Lucky Limeade, Gumball Green, and Cajun Craze. So they were pretty much banished. I always thought that was all retired stuff, but I guess I was wrong. </div>
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So I grabbed the two ink pads and of course they were dried out. But miraculously I found a Blushing Bride refill! No luck on the Sahara Sand, though. But as I stood in the dining room looking at the ink pads and going through the "staring" phase of my creative process, it hit me. I was holding Sahara Sand and I thought "hey, that's just a grayish-brownish color." And I immediately thought of another brownish-grayish color, except this one was new, had coordinating accessories, and most importantly, I KNEW WHERE IT WAS!! That's right, I'm talking about Tip Top Taupe. So sorry to the folks at CYCI...I tweaked your color challenge a little bit, but if I never would have told you then you probably never would have known....so please forgive me and give me points for honesty.</div>
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Anyways, my take on the color challenge is a combo of Tip Top Taupe, Blushing Bride, and Black. But even after I found the colors, I still struggled with the challenge. Don't get me wrong; it's a great color combo, and the colors work beautifully together. I just didn't have an Aha! moment. After a while, I did have a few ideas of some directions that I could go, so I headed over to the stamp shelves and grabbed a few stamp sets. I must say, that part has become SO MUCH easier since we renovated the craft room. Before, we had a mix of current and retired sets all sharing the same shelves. Now, we separated new from retired so I am able to focus on the current sets! It's the little things that make me happy...</div>
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Now I'm back at my desk with the colored card stock, ink pads, and selected stamp sets all piled up. I start stamping the Build a Birthday cake onto a Blushing Bride card front. It doesn't stamp right, so I use the back, I'm not happy with it so I try another card front, and repeat until I literally went through an entire sheet of card stock. Yes, that's 8 chances for something to work, but it didn't. I put that set away; it wasn't meant to be. </div>
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But during the process, I did get another idea. The colors, the stamp set, and the layout I was playing with really leaned toward a "Clean and Simple" (CAS) design. CAS is not my thing. Not my style. I really really like the look of it, especially from superstars like Krista Frattin and Sarah Sagert, but for some reason I just can't bring myself to do it. I guess I like to torture myself with a high degree of difficulty and complication.</div>
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But this week I decided to go for it, and here's what it looks like:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8wxx83xyKEs-mBt3OiG26IMcr8lUmGToAUUaNuUJZVepOZn3UuJQYivGaTR4vQB1vyDb_oZOiZiPR-PIKAbvbvgUyNzt8vWCDzSNe4sNnQe6sZ4FebhCrrP3ND8NK4ZmFeCetN5fdOY/s1600/cyci72+base.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8wxx83xyKEs-mBt3OiG26IMcr8lUmGToAUUaNuUJZVepOZn3UuJQYivGaTR4vQB1vyDb_oZOiZiPR-PIKAbvbvgUyNzt8vWCDzSNe4sNnQe6sZ4FebhCrrP3ND8NK4ZmFeCetN5fdOY/s400/cyci72+base.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I actually have one and a half cards for this challenge. Ok, I didn't REALLY make half of a card, but...well, take a look:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrR299WL-Z_8ckTxKk9n3VHWNSCkrZNEMZUJokD2eJR4ktXk3bQwAAdh0huS3PrL-QSGmQvfeQEMljpXHbcGCP-oo4mozScqv62vSDtmMAhJVmKjhGVK8wwEXPnizKcGDM7UV6iQPgRj4/s1600/cyci72+half.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrR299WL-Z_8ckTxKk9n3VHWNSCkrZNEMZUJokD2eJR4ktXk3bQwAAdh0huS3PrL-QSGmQvfeQEMljpXHbcGCP-oo4mozScqv62vSDtmMAhJVmKjhGVK8wwEXPnizKcGDM7UV6iQPgRj4/s400/cyci72+half.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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See, I just couldn't bring myself to leave it plain. While I do like the look of the first card, I felt like it was missing that certain je ne sais quoi and it needed a little pop of bling. My 10 year old daughter actually helped me with this the morning after I made the first version. I think the glimmer of silver, button, and twine bring balance to the card and complete it.</div>
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What do you think? Would you have been happy if I had just made the CAS design for you? Or did it need the extra bling? Just want honest opinions here. Don't worry, you won't hurt my feelings. I really do like them both. It's just the whole CAS thing throws me for a loop....</div>
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Thanks for making it to the end. Even if you just skipped the story part and stayed for the cards. Either way, I'm still glad you're here. Don't forget to visit <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">canyoucaseit.com</a> to see what the other designers have to share. After you get all inspired by these colors, bust out your Sahara Sand and Blushing Bride and get to craftin'!! Join us this week and show off your stuff!</div>
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Time to hit the hay for me. Please leave comments. Let me know what you think about my CAS. Should I try it again? Or stick to complex? What do you like? Not like? Was this too many words? Should I practice CAS blog writing? LOL! Ok, for real, I need to go now. It's really late and I have a lot to do tomorrow. Thanks for being here and reading this and liking my stuff. See you later this week with an all new post. Take care, y'all! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-78659606311874374632015-06-05T01:31:00.000-07:002015-06-05T01:33:48.607-07:00#TGIFC06 Coloring With Water!Hey everybody. To my regular readers (both of you), guess what I'm going to say now...<br />
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It's late here, so this will be short and sweet. Do you believe me? Lol. Do you think that means that you better get comfy because there's about to be a lot of words to read? Lol! You know me so well...<br />
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But seriously, I think I mean it this time. It's almost 1am and I still have to make a card for CYCI tonight, and then go to work in the morning. EEK! So I'm sorry that I might not be able to hang out with you, but look on the bright side...I'll be back on Sunday :-)<br />
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This week at TGIF, we have a Technique Spotlight:<br />
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Yep, just in case you didn't read the title to my post, we are colouring with water!! Just to let you know, it was very tempting to do a flower. But for those of you who are familiar with my style know that I just need to be different. So that means NOT watercoloring a flower, even though that's what makes perfect sense. I don't know why I have to always make things so hard on myself...oh well. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7JVc54mPNG6XtSo95_3XdBg_J7-8SAcTs3kNg4ncSrNMCPaQzv8k7ByEF3RDsn-dd0pF26G3e4Ut5Ldzwi3Tew7eWsfo97L50RmNrX7cXmkfjwA673-4GFzoD4FI36iqX5utehZ3GbA/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7JVc54mPNG6XtSo95_3XdBg_J7-8SAcTs3kNg4ncSrNMCPaQzv8k7ByEF3RDsn-dd0pF26G3e4Ut5Ldzwi3Tew7eWsfo97L50RmNrX7cXmkfjwA673-4GFzoD4FI36iqX5utehZ3GbA/s640/james.JPG" width="534" /></a></div>
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I started out by grabbing Sea Street. I thought that I would do a whole underwater scene. But that was a little too ambitious and didn't quite turn out how I imagined. But the "Silver Lining" (get it?) was that I discovered a new water technique as I was messing around. Basically, I used an Aquapainter and soaked up a mixture of blue hues (Night of Navy, Island Indigo, Pacific Point, Tempting Turquois). Then I held the tip of the "pen" just above the paper and gently squeezed until a drip started to form. Then I touched the drip to the paper, and a dot was born. At first, the drop beads up, but then the paper absorbs the ink/water and you get the variation of colors and shapes if you leave it alone and let it dry. The trick was to dry off the Aquapainter on a paper towel before soaking up the ink. This gave a deeper color. Then you just keep creating drops as the colors continue to change (without re-inking). As you go the colors will get lighter and lighter, and eventually you will know when its time to dry off the Aquapainter and ink back up again. And you just repeat. A few times. Until you have the background that you want. Simple, but its a pretty cool effect. I can imagine doing another color combo for a totally different background; definitely something to try someday.</div>
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The clouds were embossed with Silver EP. The large cloud was created using the same stamp and edging it with Versamark and more silver EP (let me know if you want the details, maybe I'll delve deeper on a technique post or a video). The sunburst was created with a simple technique using the scalloped circle punch, and by coloring the cardstock for the contrast of a deeper shade of yellow. Finished the card with the Silver Baker's Twine minus the Twine. That was a test of patience if I've ever had one. Beginner's tip of the day: If you're doing the Baker's Twine wraparound and bow, make sure you have plenty of twine when you get to tying the bow. Not enough twine = frustration. </div>
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Ok, that's about it. Hope you visit <a href="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/06/tgifc06.html" target="_blank">TGIFC</a> to see what our designers have colored for you. You're sure to be inspired. </div>
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See ya Sunday. Thanks for stopping by. I really have to go now. No, you hang up first. Go ahead. Fine, I'll do it. Bye.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-65308214527796230792015-05-31T03:00:00.000-07:002015-05-31T03:00:01.136-07:00CYCI #72 Brand new Bohemian BagThis post will be short and sweet. Not sure if you've been following along, but we tore up our house; moving around a few rooms and renovating our crafting space. Since we didn't finish last weekend, I've been working on finishing it after work and now that another weekend is here, we got a lot more done today. But still more to do, and now I'm exhausted. So I'm literally dozing off as I write this. Like I said, bound to be short and sweet...besides this part, Lol. Also, please forgive any typo's.<br />
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This week, <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">CanYouCaseIt</a> is bringing you a sketch challenge to play with! <br />
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I went a little outside of the box with this (I know, SHOCKER, right? Like "Out of the Box" is not my style? Lol!). Instead of a card, I wanted to make a 3-D item. Here it is:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSaOGg-o-iuKnJVogqcqmkBxg3o-7xL6seIVwnJ5tR1C7y_JAo6G1WcumHtSQBB2HKkTZzl8EwPNeSJ3mYVdeDqZX8NibuWOpujvLomsCBF29OzeM_1G4j8AJvEpcBT0gfQ_2NDktpjY/s1600/bohemian+bag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSaOGg-o-iuKnJVogqcqmkBxg3o-7xL6seIVwnJ5tR1C7y_JAo6G1WcumHtSQBB2HKkTZzl8EwPNeSJ3mYVdeDqZX8NibuWOpujvLomsCBF29OzeM_1G4j8AJvEpcBT0gfQ_2NDktpjY/s640/bohemian+bag.JPG" width="422" /></a></div>
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I hope it's not taboo to say that when I first saw the Bohemian DSP, I was like "wth?" (that's "what the heck" around here...) On one hand, I wasn't crazy about it, but on the other hand, it was just so different that I liked the "outside the box-ness" of it. I kind of took it as a challenge to come up with a way to make it work. (BTW, Cindy Schuster has made some of the best Bohemian projects that I've seen out there so far. See them <a href="http://nutmegcreations.blogspot.com/2015/05/artisan-may-2.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.)</div>
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Before this sketch challenge came around, I've just had the thought of using the paper in the back of my mind, waiting for a project to attack. When I saw the sketch, something just clicked, and I said to myself, "hey, I'll make a gift bag! And I'll use the new Bohemian DSP!" Voila! This project was born! </div>
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I got to break in not only the DSP, but also the new Gift Bag Punch Board. Again, I'll admit that I was a little intimidated by the punch board. But I read the directions that are actually printed on the board (must say, Great Idea, Stampin' Up!), looked it over a few times, and got to scoring. And it really is a piece of cake once you know what to do. Let me know if you need a video tutorial...I've been considering filming something, just not sure if there would be any interest.</div>
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The sketch inspired me to follow the lines of the Bohemian pattern on the bottom of my tag to get the pointy banner look of the sketch. After I did that, I also wanted to follow the lines of the pattern by chomping the top corners of the tag with the hexagon punch. I stamped the sentiment in the new Dijon In-Color and Bermuda Bay. I punched the small hearts out of Bermuda Bay and Gold Foil to tie in the Gold Baker's Twine. I finished the bag off with a handle made from the Bohemian Washi tape. I just stuck 2 long pieces of tape sticky side together, used the stickiness to stick it to the bag, and stapled it for both design and function.</div>
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Hope you like it! Please visit <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">CYCI</a> to see what the rest of the design team has made. Hope you play along with the challenge while you're there.</div>
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So much for short and sweet...I should have known better. Oh, well. Off to bed for me now. Good night!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-25893789372392224712015-05-28T23:59:00.001-07:002015-05-28T23:59:36.649-07:00#TGIFC05 Con-grad-ulations on the Sketch!HI!!! Did you get here via <a href="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/05/tgifc05-remix.html" target="_blank">TGIF Challenges</a>? If not, make sure you go and check it out! I'm genuinely excited about this week's challenge...I think it's a really unique idea. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXzaTo9-J3cTxUxv22KzlIOkxwPoaSdG9JMHZ4mS1OEOwFnG3SvGonthfaKMjzOhAt37TcHec9BMyW83VYF4Q6_GHxTSnNggvHplQUFojI_PgYUHy6YZ6uJT5BpmGGYegHrG-25G5iq8/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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We are having you take two of our recent challenges and mash them together...sounds fun, right? The combination is up to you, and the challenges to pick from are listed on the site. <br />
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Plus, to celebrate our one month anniversary, we are giving away a prize pack! Visit the site for details.<br />
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Here is my mash-up mix-up combo creation...Wanna guess what I combined? Bet you'll be stumped! Lol...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXzaTo9-J3cTxUxv22KzlIOkxwPoaSdG9JMHZ4mS1OEOwFnG3SvGonthfaKMjzOhAt37TcHec9BMyW83VYF4Q6_GHxTSnNggvHplQUFojI_PgYUHy6YZ6uJT5BpmGGYegHrG-25G5iq8/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXzaTo9-J3cTxUxv22KzlIOkxwPoaSdG9JMHZ4mS1OEOwFnG3SvGonthfaKMjzOhAt37TcHec9BMyW83VYF4Q6_GHxTSnNggvHplQUFojI_PgYUHy6YZ6uJT5BpmGGYegHrG-25G5iq8/s640/james.JPG" width="440" /></a></div>
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All products are current Stampin' Up! I used the ever trusty Guy Greetings stamp set along with the Typeset DSP. Color combo is Night of Navy, Very Vanilla, Tip Top Taupe, and Gold. Stamps inked in black except for the "Hats Off" sentiment which is embossed with gold EP and the background "Congratulations" which is stamped in gold ink. I used the new banner punch to shape the bottom of the main banner and sides of the sentiment banner.</div>
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I created the tassel by dismantling a scrap of the Gold Baker's Twine until I separated the individual strands. Then pinched the strands together and folded them in half. I took two of the strands and tied a knot around the fold, which created the "tail" to my tassel. I finished it by taking another strand and tying it around the fold. Trimmed the tassel to my liking and used a glue dot to secure the tail to the back of the hat, so that way it still has movement with the card.</div>
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Bonus did-ya-know tip: I used Dimensionals to lift my Guy, but I still needed extra dimension for the sentiment. What I did was stack 2 Dimensionals onto each other at each edge of the banner, then stuck the sentiment to the double Dimensional stacks. This way, the sentiment is still lifted above the Guy even though the Guy is already lifted up himself. Make sense? Man, that was a lot of words...</div>
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Well that's it for now. Hope you join in the challenge, or at the very least visit the site to see what the other designers have created. See you on Sunday for a CYCI sketch challenge and (SPOILER ALERT) see you early next week for a surprise Non-Friday TGIF post! </div>
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TTYL!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-61272388784173286822015-05-25T10:13:00.001-07:002015-05-25T10:13:14.868-07:00Nothing To Share...Except This!Happy Monday and Happy Memorial Day! <br />
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I didn't want you to worry about me since I didn't post a card over the weekend. I'm ok. Just in case you haven't seen on Facebook or Instagram, we are going through some big changes with our crafting space. Last week, my wife had the epiphany to switch our craft room with our bedroom...trust me, it makes sense if you know the layout of our house. So far we have emptied out our craftroom into our living room and made a huge mess:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKgXVgOgWHEVSO3eXUFTgcorv-AQrvubZGn3Df4-rxR3LWx2UPLO9K3_B2dP9X3V21jyOHEfNjYnNopT306xw1OxSU4B_SWRk-GoFLYcEyGDbCwe0XVbEPzQPasJXp0XRJfghU-RKiIo/s1600/reno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKgXVgOgWHEVSO3eXUFTgcorv-AQrvubZGn3Df4-rxR3LWx2UPLO9K3_B2dP9X3V21jyOHEfNjYnNopT306xw1OxSU4B_SWRk-GoFLYcEyGDbCwe0XVbEPzQPasJXp0XRJfghU-RKiIo/s400/reno.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And we were able to set up our bedroom just in time to sleep last night. Now it's on to Ikea to get a few final items to hopefully tie it all together. Here's my old crafting space if you were curious (say goodbye):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMnhpN7-NWMQbZdcBlhayBttvt7JxSk4r2QWXI1vFYOx7zhrrGW1-TT6mOFmZqEf_AcjF4qaKojUKEKHifv7SXu125hcB6tzZ9jpmw8QWmeqESFK0957083ZLqkC-Bh83OhXCxGFr-PU/s1600/old+desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMnhpN7-NWMQbZdcBlhayBttvt7JxSk4r2QWXI1vFYOx7zhrrGW1-TT6mOFmZqEf_AcjF4qaKojUKEKHifv7SXu125hcB6tzZ9jpmw8QWmeqESFK0957083ZLqkC-Bh83OhXCxGFr-PU/s400/old+desk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I hope to be able to post some after pics soon. The sooner the better. Can't wait to be done. I have to go back to work tomorrow and there's no way I can leave the house in this disarray. Not only that, but there's no stamping that can be done in the interim since everything is all meshuganah. </div>
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Well I've got to get going. Please don't forget to stop by and play along with a our challenges this week. I'll just craft vicariously through you, if that's ok...</div>
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<a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="www.canyoucaseit.com" border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Wm8B9vNEgLZS7ib9eJu4PRKXQ58Vag4SGQV01Rqv_0H8U3ELQKMC1UWCU0GHB2UnvSs7P3SwgZxSE7LRHiAtRsqpaLP2HfMDWZfHoQn60zYx2w0wYIpGvCvsSm0sA22vBnPvxK1ZyA0/s400/CYCI1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hope you stop back by to see our end results, or just follow my <a href="http://www.instagram.com/stampinstud" target="_blank">Instagram</a> to join the journey! Hope you have a great week, and at the very least hopefully I'll see you Friday for a new TGIF Challenge (Lord willing I can have a space to work by then. LOL).</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-23575548160291258352015-05-22T00:00:00.000-07:002015-05-22T00:20:20.103-07:00#TGIFC04 - In-stich-spiration Hey there! Thanks for joining me. Guess what? I made you something. Yep, just for you. Nope, no special occasion. Just because. I was inspired. Wanna see what inspired me? It was this:<br />
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Yep, the geniuses over at <a href="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/05/tgifc04-inspiration.html" target="_blank">TGIF Challenges</a> have a new challenge... It's truly inspired. Take a look at the picture above. See the flowers? Or do you see the colours? Or do you notice the needlepoint pattern? Or how about the puppy? I am serious about that. I do see a puppy and I did almost run with it...I'll let you sort it out. Here is the non-puppy flowery stitch inspired card that I ended up making (for you):</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYhOqzMtiHC7vzPKg4vTE1KkdvsId0r4dl-Q_WJRLsmBQberDw0KT3J65RsWaFSH5-9d_XB0C9T4JAFkWY_mETTSm1YG3Uk7YmHh6PxZCD271K2ujyVo7KsJnDXxsk0cx1ZiFDlqwLwH4/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYhOqzMtiHC7vzPKg4vTE1KkdvsId0r4dl-Q_WJRLsmBQberDw0KT3J65RsWaFSH5-9d_XB0C9T4JAFkWY_mETTSm1YG3Uk7YmHh6PxZCD271K2ujyVo7KsJnDXxsk0cx1ZiFDlqwLwH4/s640/james.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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So I'm not a huge flower fan. I originally wanted to go a different route with this project, but I guess inspiration is inspiration. The color combo and flower were a no-brainer since that imagery was so prevalent in the challenge. But when I looked at the theme image, the first thing that I noticed was the nod toward needlepoint. I wanted to replicate a feeling for stitching and fabric. That's why you see the burlap on the bottom and the piercing at the top. By the way, this was my first go at paper piercing. For all it's worth, here's a tip from a rookie...I couldn't find that plastic piercing guide when I was making this card, so I "freehanded" the line by placing a ruler parallel to the top edge of the paper and piercing every 1/8". I felt pretty clever, but is that really just common sense? Don't tell me...I'd rather go on thinking that I'm just really clever.</div>
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I also liked the look of the You've Got This background stamp and I tried to continue the linework with the cross stitch type coloring of the flower. This was my first time using this background stamp, and it definitely won't be the last. I'm lovin' the grungy look, especially paired with the torn/distressed edges.</div>
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Well I hope that you find some inspiration, and that you come on by to <a href="http://www.tgifchallenges.com/" target="_blank">TGIFC</a> and share it with us. I'd be blown away if anybody is brave enough to enter a puppy card this week...but I cant be the only one who sees him. He's just way too cute!!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-67573514463177597862015-05-17T03:00:00.000-07:002015-05-17T03:00:05.144-07:00CYCI#70 May I Give you Flowers...Hi again! This year, we've had our share of April showers. And as you know, "April showers bring May flowers." Well, today, so does <a href="http://www.canyoucaseit.com/" target="_blank">Can You Case It</a>!<br />
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That's right, this week we have a flower challenge! I know that for most of you, "flower" and "challenge" aren't words that would usually go together. For me, though, I have to be in the mood to make something flowery. Well thank goodness for the new Stampin' Up sets and colors! </div>
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Like those new colors? Tip Top Taupe is the brownish-grayish, the reddish-pinkish Watermelon Wonder is my new favorite, and the leaves are the bright green Cucumber Crush. The image is a 3-step stamp from the Floral Wings set, the striped paper is from the new Envelope paper set, and I created the border with the new Lace Ribbon (which comes in all of the new In Colors - totally sweet...like having a spool of colored doily!). Just in case you're wondering, I added the dimension to the image by fussy cutting the flowers and popping them up on dimensionals. It wasn't necessary, though... I made the card for this week's stamp-n-chat without the added layering, and it totally works. I just wanted to overcomplicate it so I could show off on my blog. Lol! </div>
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Thanks for stopping in. If you haven't been over to <a href="http://canyoucaseit.com/">canyoucaseit.com</a> yet, go and check out what the design team has created for you. While you're there, I hope that there will be a creative seed planted in you which will end up growing an inspired idea and blooming into a May Flower project of your own which you will then pluck and share with us! That wasn't toooo much of a stretch on the theme, was it?</div>
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See you in a few days! Happy Stamping!!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10643879260688170383noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5512672283390356854.post-40246136587040304752015-05-15T01:06:00.000-07:002015-05-15T01:06:20.739-07:00# TGIFC03 Congrats Grad!It's Friday! And you know what that means...TGIF!! This week we have a theme:<br />
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That's right! In honor of all of the studious students studying out there, we are celebrating the graduating class! Here's looking at you, first graders! Before you know it, summer will be over and you will have a whole year of second grade ahead of you...reading books with less pictures and longer words, math problems with more numbers and funny looking symbols...there's a whole 'nother world out there that you never realized!! Lol! Oh, how I long for the days of picture books and recess....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtyu_fbgX_W3UQkGl4wFPmj3ZoiSqaF3lZXdOUCgYfDigDgcYGPMHkxqJgQfqjZ8VAWMn7HVQGIzmJShHg_oYV90ugMJ5D5deFER_5mPopLvDZHh79DF1PYR8dqq5kfhmfRoVKTlPiFjg/s1600/james.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtyu_fbgX_W3UQkGl4wFPmj3ZoiSqaF3lZXdOUCgYfDigDgcYGPMHkxqJgQfqjZ8VAWMn7HVQGIzmJShHg_oYV90ugMJ5D5deFER_5mPopLvDZHh79DF1PYR8dqq5kfhmfRoVKTlPiFjg/s400/james.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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So just in case you're wondering, NO, I didn't make my card for a first grader or first grade graduation. In fact when I was in school, there was no such thing as "First Grade Graduation." Here I go, rambling again. If you know me by now, then you know how I like to ramble...focus...back to the card.... This is merely celebratory themed with balloons and fun colors, in my opinion age appropriate for ANY graduation from kindergarten to Medical School. What doctor hasn't considered their profession to be adventuresome at some point? I mean seriously, have you ever been to the emergency room? Have you ever watched <em>General Hospital</em>? Talk about adventure! Here I go rambling again...back to the card... I really just wanted to get some more use out of my Adventure Awaits stamp set before he retires :-( I actually thought that any of those stamps in that set could be graduation themed. I always think about graduating as starting a new chapter in life, which is why I chose this sentiment..."The Adventure Begins!" I paired it with my new favorite DSP...Adios "Adventure Bound", Hello "Cherry On Top"! A few Early Espresso banners and a few fussy cut balloons, and voila! Happy Graduation!!</div>
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Hope you pop on over to <a href="http://tgifchallenges.blogspot.com/2015/05/tgifc03-theme-congrats-grad.html" target="_blank">TGIFChallenges</a> to see what our team has made. While you're there, you should check out the entries for last week's challenge...nearly 50 cards!! I swear we have such a talented gang of challengers! It's getting hard to tell the design team from the challengers these days! I hope that you will join us and show off your stuff too. Let's see what you can do with this week's Grad theme....</div>
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