Laurie's Rubber Room

Update on My Husband

2012-01-22T20:06:00.002-05:00

I would like to thank all of you for your prayers and support through the past few months. It is with a heavy heart that I tell you Jim lost his battle with cancer this afternoon. He had such a difficult time over the past 6 months and his body just gave up. But, I have comfort in knowing that he is in a much better place and no longer having to endure the pain and diarrhea and the constant frustration of not feeling well.

We had so many things that we still wanted to do together and I miss him so much already. But, I am taking some much needed time with our son and will be back to stamping in the near future. Jim always enjoyed the cards and projects I make and I know he would want that to continue.

Thanks again for all of your prayers. I know they were answered because now he is at peace.

God Bless you all and thank you for being part of my life. 'Til next time..........................

Laurie

Simply Sent - Create and Keep

2012-01-21T15:48:00.003-05:00

When I saw the new Simply Sent Kit in the Occasions Mini Catalog, I knew I had to get one just to see what it was like. Well, needless to say, I want more of them! This is the coolest little kit ever!! Inside the package, you will find everything you need to make 10 greeting cards, the envelopes to mail them in, as well as a box (complete with dividers) to store them in until you need them!! You don't even have to stamp anything - the die cuts that are included allow you to decorate your cards for all sorts of occasions. All that and they are cute, too :)

In the kit, you get the pre-cut and scored pieces to assemble this box:

I used Sticky Strip to put mine together - that or Tombo multi-pupose glue is recommended. I hate "drying time" so I chose the quicker method :) I was too anxious to see how cute it was! You also receive four divider cards and on the die cut sheet, there are little stickers to put on the tabs. You can choose the ones with titles printed (like I did) or you can use the blank ones for you own occasions:

The color combination is awesome - Pear Pizzazz, Daffodil Delight, Calypso Coral, Pool Party and Early Espresso. The envelopes are Pear Pizzazz and have a cute little label to add a name or address to on the back and an adorable tab closure:

I know, I know - where are the cards?????? Well, here are the first five. You get 2 each of the five different colors and all of the die cuts coordinate. The fun is in putting them together - no two sets ever have to be the same :) I love these peel-and-stick little beauties:

There is such a diverse collection of sentiments - "Thinking of You", "Thanks", "Happy Birthday", "Hi", "Congrats", and "For You". I love that you have such great choices - something for all occasions:

The complete list of supplies:

Accessories: Simply Sent Kit - Create and Keep, Sticky Strip

How simple is that supply list!? I love it!!! The best part is that you can get all 10 cards with envelopes and the box with dividers for under $15 (plus shipping and tax). Yes, you heard correctly - it is only $14.95!! How great is that???

This would make a great gift for someone who enjoys sending cards to friends and family. And I think it would make a fantastic class (for all you demonstrators out there)! I know I certainly intend to have one. This goes together so quickly and is super easy!! I have friends who suffer with arthritis and sometimes it is just too painful to stamp. With this kit, they could still make beautiful hand-made cards with ease. And, it is great for kids, too, because you don't have to worry about "inky fingers" touching everything..lol!!

The possibilities are endless with this little kit. I can't wait to get some more of them. I think it would be fun to "step up" the cards by adding some ribbon, buttons, and brads. Hopefully this will not be the only kit we see like this - I intend to ask for more :)

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I am so happy to be back. I don't get to stamp everyday, but I do it every chance I get and hope to share again very soon. I am loving all of the new things and can't wait to show you more. 'Til next time..............................

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Non-Traditional Valentine Love

2012-01-17T10:12:00.005-05:00

I absolutely love the color combination in the Twitterpated Designer Series Paper in the new Occasions Mini Catalog! And even though, I love it, it's still fun to change it up a bit :) So, that's what I decided to do for my first Valentine's Day card. I chose the page that has all of the pretty little flowers all over it and then laid out the other colors. But, I just happened to have a scrap of Pink Pirouette on my stamping table and laid it against the Island Indigo....you guessed it - LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT!!! I will be putting these two together alot from now on :)

Anyway, I had just gotten Valentine Love in the order my hubby got me for Christmas so I decided to try a little "non-traditional" Valentine's Day Card. This is how it turned out:

I colored the inside portion of the heart image (it has a vine around it on the stamp) with my Blushing Bride Marker and stamped it. Then I used the sentiment and stamped over the heart with Riding Hood Red ink. I punched it out with the Full Heart Punch and then layered it onto a piece of Island Indigo cut with the Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslit. I attached it with a dimensional to make it "pop." And, I love how it just gives a very small scalloped border around the punched heart:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Valentine Love

Cardstock: Island Indigo, Pink Pirouette, Whisper White, Twitterpated Designer Series Paper

Ink: Riding Hood Red

Accessories: Big Shot, Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslit, Blushing Bride Marker, Stampin' Dimensionals, Blushing Bride Pleated Ribbon

I also used the marker to color the row of hearts along the bottom of the piece of Pink Pirouette cardstock. It gave the hearts more "texture" than just using the ink pad. And, don't you just adore that pleated ribbon!!? It is available in 4 colors - all coordinate with this Designer Series Paper. It is so soft and actually very easy to work with. But, it does work best if you just add it as a flat layer and don't wrap it around behind. Gets a bit bulky if you do.

Thank you so much for stopping by today and for your continued support through my absence. I appreciate you all so much and love the opportunity to share my ideas with you :) 'Til next time.........................

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Apothecary Art and new Framelits

2012-01-15T20:01:00.004-05:00

Wow! My life has been so crazy lately! But, I finally got some time to stamp this weekend and play with all of my new "toys" from the Occasions Mini Catalog and my Sale-a-Bration preorder. Can you say, "OH MY GOODNESS!!!"? I am having sooooo much fun! I knew I had to do my very first card using the awesome new Framelits....LOVE these!!! I have been waiting a long time for Stampin' Up to come out with something like this - they are amazing!

And the best part is the coordinating stamp set.....Apothecary Art. The images in this set fit perfectly with the Labels Collection Framelits. It was difficult to choose which image to use first, but I finally chose this one:

I love the way the floral image is mirrored on opposite sides of the banner. I colored the image with markers. I stamped an extra image and cut the banner from the second one, then stamped the words and colored the edge before attaching it with dimensionals. Then I added a special touch with some pearls and attached the entire label with dimensionals:

The final touch was one of the fabulous new hat pins. I think they are very cool on a project that looks vintage. I attached the seam binding and lace trim as flat pieces to the card first and then tied separate bows of each. I stuck the hat pin through the knots to join them and then threaded the body of the pin behind the large portion of the label. It just laid there so nice. I didn't even have to use glue dots or anything to attach the bows. But, I did decide to put one on the back of the lace bow just for added support.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Apothecary Art

Cardstock: Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Very Vanilla, Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Gray, Lucky Limeade

Accessories: Big Shot, Labels Collection Framelits, Basic Pearls, Pool Party 1/2-inch Seam Binding, Victoria Lace Trim, Hat Pin, Pool Party and Lucky Limeade Markers, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots

I just love the way this turned out! The framelits are my absolute favorite new accessory for my Big Shot! I can't wait to try the Hearts Collection, too. They are just tooo fun!! I sure hope you don't get sick and tired of seeing them over the next few months..lol :) And, I promise that you will see them alot. I must say that I will be quite disappointed if this stamp set doesn't make it into the new catalog in July. The images are gorgeous! And they are wonderful for the vintage style that I have grown to love so much.

Update on the homefront....Things are progressing rather slowly with Jim's treatment. They have stopped all chemotherapy because he has had some pretty severe side effects for several months now. His in the hospital right now and they are working hard to get things under control. But, it just seems like he takes one step forward and two steps back. I thank God every day for my friends and family and all of your support and prayers. And having time to stamp gives me a much needed break from the craziness and frustration. So, I hope you will all hang in there with me this year. I know it will get better! "Til next time..............................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Co-worker Gifts for my Flaky Friends

2011-12-25T12:57:00.005-05:00

I work with a fanstastic group of ladies. We laugh and kid with each other while working very hard. With times so being so tough this year for all of us, we decided not to have a gift exchange and had a "food day" instead. With all of us being such good cooks, it turned out to be a wonderful gift :) I honestly don't think I need to eat again until the end of January!

But, with all that is happening in my life these days, they have been a great escape and comfort for me. So, I wanted to do a little something to show my appreciation to all of them. And since they are so much fun, I couldn't think of a better stamp set to use than "Flaky Friends." I know it is retired but it is definitely one I can't bear to give up...lol! I just have too many flaky friends :)

Anyway, I pulled out the old stand by (the Fancy Favor Box die) and made 8 of these:

Here is a closer look. I filled the boxes with a bag of goodies (also known as store-bought candy) and just couldn't resist adding a little tag that says "Some of my best friends are flakes."

I had a cute little candy cane for each of them that I got a local cake shop where I purchased the clear gusseted bags for the candy (I sure wish SU still sold these). I cut out a strip of snowflakes from the gorgeous glitter papers and attached them with glue dots:

Then I made a little 3x3 card to wish each of them a very Merry Christmas. This little image from the Tags Til Christmas stamp set (so happy that was carried over from last year's Mini). It fit the occasion perfectly :) :

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Flaky Friends (retired), Tags Til Christmas

Cardstock: Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Whisper White, Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Gray, Cherry Cobbler

Accessories: Big Shot with Northern Frost Decorative Strip, Cherry Cobbler, Basic Gray, and Old Olive Markers, Mini Glue Dots, Sticky Strip, Stampin' Dimensionals, Old Olive 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon (retired), Old Olive 1 1/4-inch Striped Grosgrain Ribbon (retired), Scallop Square Punch, 3x3 Mini Envelopes, Red and Silver Glimmer Paper

I was so sad to see the Old Olive retire in these two ribbons. I didn't like the color at first but last Christmas it really became a favorite. It is nice to have some leftovers once in a while :) I enjoyed making these little gifts so much and all of the girls really enjoyed them which made them mean that much more. I am so thankful to have all of them. They offer so much support during this tough time for Jim and I.

He has such a difficult time with this round of chemotherapy. Hopefully, we will be going back down to the University of Michigan Cancer Center around mid-January to start the stem cell transplant process. That will mean the chemotherapy infusions will finally be done once the transplant is complete. From that point on, he will just take an oral medication to maintain the remission. Things get much easier at that point and we are both looking forward to that!

I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!! Enjoy your time with family and remember the real reason for the season - Jesus. God gave us the greatest gift of all when He gave us His Son. I am so grateful to have a relationship with such a loving God - he gives me the strength to smile when I feel like crying and the strength to keep going when I feel like giving up. May God bless your life the way he blesses mine. 'Til next time...............................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!!

I Haven't Forgotten You

2011-12-16T23:15:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know I haven't forgotten you. Life has been pretty hectic.

Hubby's treatments have been pretty rough this time so when I am not working, I am usually taking him to the doctor. He gets dehydrated easily and has fallen a few times and has struggled alot with adverse side effects this time. Feels like I am on a roller coaster most days.

But hopefully after the next round of chemo we will be back down to the University of Michigan Cancer Center to do the stem cell transplant. We are both ready to be done with this.

Needless to say, I haven't had much time for stamping lately. But, I plan to change that this week. I am going to charge up the camera batteries and get some pictures on here for you over the weekend.

I had a great time with some girl scouts in October making cards for the Ronald McDonald House and I have held a Christmas Stamp-a-Stack. I am working on the 2011 Christmas Gift Extravaganza and will have lots of stuff to post in the next few days.

Thanks so much for your prayers and continued support through this rough patch in my crazy life. I value all of you so much. 'Til next time........................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Welcome Christmas

2011-09-27T12:31:00.003-04:00

I know it is only the first week of Autumn, but that is a sign that Christmas is coming!! And I love Christmas even more than I love the change of colors that autumn brings to mid-Michigan. I have to admit that is one thing I missed last year when I was in San Diego. But, now I miss the ocean so I guess my world will never be perfect unless I can figure out how to get them both in the same place :)

This is also the time of year to start thinking about making Christmas cards to send out in December. I love the variety of products Stampin' Up offers for just such an endeavor. The new embossing folder and beautiful Designer Series Paper offered in the Holiday Mini Catalog are just the icing on the cake. I used them along with one of the awesome stamp sets in the Idea Book & Catalog to make this:

Since I used a darker cardstock for the base, I added a layer of Whisper White to the inside and repeated the image of the family to dress the card up a bit:

I apologize for the blurriness (is that even a word?) of the next photo but I was trying to give you an "up close and personal" view of the new Snow Burst embossing folder. I love this!! Someday when I can afford my dream camera, this won't be such a problem :) Until then, we will just have to suffer through together :( But, don't you just love the texture added with this folder?

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Welcome Christmas

Cardstock: Bashful Blue, Cherry Cobbler, Garden Green, Whisper White, Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper

Ink: Cherry Cobbler, Marina Mist

Accessories: Big Shot with Snow Burst Embossing Folder, Cherry Cobbler 1/2" Seam Binding, Stampin' Dimensionals

I actually made this for a swap at the last RubberQueen meeting I attended with Ronda Wade. But, I liked it so much that I thought I would make a full card and add it to the list of cards for my Christmas Stamp-a-Stack coming up in October.

This stamp set reminds of the times my family decorated our Christmas tree when I was a kid. We all worked together and no matter how close we hung the ornaments together or how we globbed on those tinsel "icecicles" my mom always thought we had a beautiful tree. And I remember the excitement we all felt when the lights were turned on when we finished. I had many moments like that when my son was growing up and I still get that feeling every year when I light my tree. There is just something about Christmas that puts magic in my life and in my heart. And it is my intention to NEVER let that feeling go away.

I sold my Christmas tree in our yard sale and I will be in a much smaller place this year so I don't know that I will get to have a tree to decorate. But, that won't stop me from celebrating the birth of Jesus. With all we have been through this past year and the battle we are having now with Jim's cancer, the season gives me hope - hope that next year will bring good things to us. We still have more to go through with his treatment and the stem-cell transplant but at least we know it will get better. And I hang on to that hope everyday and thank God for supportive family, friends, and the medical staffs we work with. I have met some wonderful people who are an inspiration to me - proof that even good things can come from tough times.

Thank you so much for stopping by today and allowing me to share both my card and my thoughts with you. I am so grateful to all of you who visit my blog. You keep me inspired to keep going and to keep creating and sharing. 'Til next time...............................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

My Friend

2011-09-06T09:18:00.001-04:00

Before I left California, I signed up for a swap using products from the new 2011-2012 catalog. The stamp set I chose is called My Friend. This set is perfect for cute and simple cards. So, that it what I decided to do for a swap card. I also love the new scallop-edge ribbon so I added a little strip of that to dress it up a bit and came up with this:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: My Friend

Cardstock: Confetti Cream, Chocolate Chip, Wild Wasabi, Whisper White

Ink: Early Espresso, Wild Wasabi

Accessories: Chocolate Chip Scallop Dotted Ribbon, Eyelet Border Punch

This card is very simple but fun. These are the cards the ladies in my card class love to make :) I love this stamp set because it is great to use as a background for so many of our sets that have simple words to add to a card front. This image would also be great as a silhoutte on a sponged card........another project for another day (lol!)

It won't be long now until I can get back to stamping. We may be moving in the next couple of weeks - just waiting for the place we are looking at to be ready. But I will get a chance to stamp today because I need to make swap cards for Ronda Wade's meeting tonight. I can't wait to see all of my stamping friends. It has been quite some time since I have seen them. I am really looking forward to spending some time with them and sharing ideas. With the new Holiday Mini Catalog that started on September 1st, I am sure to get see some awesome projects and get some great swaps :)

The weather here in mid-Michigan today is very fall-like :) I love this time of the year. The leaves are starting to turn orange and red so I know it won't be long. We are just getting a taste of it as our temps will be closer to 80 by the weekend. But, I am enjoying it while it lasts and looking forward to cooler days. Thanks so much for stopping by and enjoy your day! 'Til next time................................

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Almost finished!

2011-08-19T10:18:00.002-04:00

Well, we are down to the final week in our house here in Michigan. I am so excited to report that I will finally be blogging again in about a week and a half! I am experiencing some serious withdrawals from stamping and can't wait to get back to it. But, I have met some very nice ladies during our moving sale who love to stamp and hopefully we will be able to get together later :) That is what I love about this business - the opportunities to make new friends. I love it!!

I just want to express my sincere thanks to all of you who have stayed faithful to me through all of this and for your prayers and support. The chemotherapy is beginning to take still on Jim but we know we will get through it. Hugs to all of you and I promise to be back soon! 'Til next time...........

Happy stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Aviary and Word Play

2011-07-18T11:55:00.006-04:00

Before I left for Michigan, I had put together a couple of cards in hope of leaving a card class with my mom. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get all of them finished so my customers will have to wait until I get back out there :( But, since I have very little time for stamping right now, I thought I would do a quick post to show you one of them.

I used the little owl from the Aviary stamp set and a sentiment from Word Play to come up with this:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Aviary, Word Play, Autumn Days

Cardstock: Calypso Coral, Island Indigo, Early Espresso, Whisper White, Paisley Petals DSP

Ink: Calypso Coral, Island Indigo, Early Espresso

Accessories: Scallop Circle Punch, Decorative Label Punch, Whisper White 3/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

I held the taffeta ribbon on my Island Indigo ink pad using a sponge dauber and pulled it across the pad to color it. I didn't get a chance to order the ruffled ribbon in the In Colors so this was the next best thing :) I love these new In Colors and they are gorgeous with the Paisley Petals designer series paper. Next month you will be able to purchase all of your designer series paper in a great deal from Stampin' Up. I will give you all of the details on August 1st!! It will be a great time to stock up on all of the beautiful new papers.

Well, I know this is short but I have to get back home and keep on packing :( I would much rather be spending my time here or stamping - by that's life these days. I will post again as soon as I can. Until then, thank you so much for your visits, your prayers, and your continued support. 'Til next time.............................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Just an Update

2011-07-11T13:54:00.003-04:00

Just an update to let you know I am in Michigan and have been busy sorting and packing!! We should have tons of stuff in our moving sale :) It is amazing what you accumulate in 29 years of marriage..lol!!

Hubby's treatments seem to be going well. It seems a bit easier this time. He still has the fatigue which is expected but he is handling the chemo quite well so far.

I haven't had any time to stamp and am starting to have some serious withdrawal symptoms!! But, hopefully I will be able to get back to it soon! My hair will be alot grayer if I don't, that's for sure :) I am anxious to share some of the new products with you. Be sure to check out the new catalog and start making out your wish list. Christmas is the perfect time to send all of your family members to my website to shop from your list.

I will try my best to get a quick card done to post this week. Until then, thanks so much for keeping in touch and for keeping us in your prayers. 'Til next time.........................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

On the Road Again

2011-07-02T19:08:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I am leaving for Michigan today. I will be back there for a few months this time and at first will have limited access to the internet. But, I will try to post as often as possible.

In the meantime, the new catalog has gone live :) You can view it by clicking the link in the left column and you can place your orders here. There are so many gorgeous new designer papers and some awesome polka-dot ribbons! And then, of course, there are many new stamps and Big Shot accessories. I can't wait to share some of them with you :)

Also, be sure to check out the link for the Starter Kit offer! Right now, you can join Stampin' Up for as little as $99!!! It is a smaller kit designed for those of you who love to stamp and already have some tools to work with :) I would love to have you be part of my team!! With the kit you get stamps, inks, accessories, business supplies, and best of all ME as your coach and mentor!! I love stamping and Stampin' Up and would love to help you have a successful business as well :) Or you could just purchase the kit to enjoy the demonstrator perks - a 20% discount on all the Stampin' Up products, a monthly magazine with tips and techniques, the opportunity to preorder from new catalogs, incentive trips and bonuses, and best of all ME as your coach and mentor!! Oh, did I already say that?? Lol! If you love to stamp, this is a great deal and, as always, there is absolutely no obligation for you to hold workshops. You can do as much or as little as you want as a demonstrator. Many of us simply joined to enjoy the discount :)

Well, I have lots to do once I get home. Need to pack the house and get ready to move. Hubby has started his chemo treatments and they are going well. Hopefully, this time around will be better and shorter for him. It just really takes a toll. So, please keep us both in your prayers.

As I said before, I will have limited access to the Internet for the first month or so but then hopefully it will be good. I will try to post as often as I can and keep you updated. I won't have much time for stamping until we get out of the house but once that is finished, I am hoping to be able to show you some of the wonderful new products.

Well, almost time to hit the road. Thanks for stopping by and I hope to be back soon. 'Til next time...............................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Snow Much Fun Gift Tag Box Sneak Peek

2011-06-30T13:44:00.011-04:00

Once in awhile when going through my e-mails, I come across a card or project that I just cannot resist making. Such was the case this week when I received my e-newsletter from Papercraft Planet :) I was looking over the articles and the featured video for the week was by Valita (whom I adore!) and she made the cutest card that doubles as a gift box for flat items, such as tags. Oh my gosh, it was just the cutest little thing and I HAD to make one of my own....lol!! No surprise there, right?

Anyway, I decided to follow her example and do some Christmas gift tags and thought this would be a terrific way to introduce you to another stamp set that will be available tomorrow (sooooo excited for the new catalog!!!!) - Snow Much Fun. I just adore the snowmen in this set! They have offered some comfort from losing Flaky Friends a couple of years ago.

So, I watched Valita's video and here is my version of her gift box card:

I used my pastels and a blender pen to color the snowmen. The designer series paper is called Pocketful of Posies and is also in the new catalog. Here is the card opened up:

It is the cutest little box! I made 6 gift tags to put inside. I hooked some of the Tinsel Trim that I had left from last year's Holiday Mini catalog through each one. I sure hope they give us something like that this year. I loved that trim. The scalloped layer is cut with the Big Shot (you must have one of these!!) using the new Perfect Pennants die. LOVE this die! I stamped an image from Tags Til Christmas which was also in the Holiday Mini (hope you held on to yours).....

To hold the ribbon securely on the back of the card, I attached it with a glue dot and then added the snowball from Snow Much Fun over top of it using sticky strip on the bottom and top edges.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Snow Much Fun, Tags til Christmas

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White, Pocketful of Posies Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Gray, Baja Breeze, Rich Razzleberry

Accessories: Big Shot, Perfect Pennants die, Whisper White 3/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Blender Pen, Stampin' Pastels, Silver Tinsel Trim (retired), Sticky Strip, 1 1/4-inch Square Punch, 1 3/8-inch Square Punch, 1 3/4-inch Circle Punch

I really like the way this turned out. I think Baja Breeze and Rich Razzleberry may be a fun new color combo for Christmas :) Nothing wrong with "thinking outside of the box" sometimes - especially in stamping! I never really thought about this combo much until I got this paper and now it is fast becoming a favorite. I didn't even think I would actually like this paper but boy was I mistaken! Simply gorgeous! Just goes to show that pictures just don't do our products justice - they are sooo much prettier in real life.

Valita had a very good idea about sending these as early Christmas cards so the recipient can use the tags on the gifts they give. I know a few of my friends who will be receiving one this year :) I think it is a terrific idea and can be used for so many different kinds of tags - birthdays, all occasion, little thank yous.........the list goes on :) It will be fun creating more of these - they are super easy! Thanks, Valita - amazing, as usual!!! You can find the directions to make this gift box card by going here and searching the list on the right hand side for "Making a Simple Box Card." Valita does some absolutely wonderful videos for lots of fun projects and cards. I just love her work!! She is a fabulous paper crafter!! Be sure to check her out on youtube.

Thanks for stopping by today and I hope you have enjoyed this little gift box card. I hope it has inspired you to create one of your own and feel free to share it with me if you do :) 'Til next time......................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

On the Grow Sneak Peak

2011-06-29T14:33:00.002-04:00

I fell in love with the new In Colors the minute I saw them!!! Just another of the benefits of being a Stampin' Up demonstrator - we could preorder them this month :) It gives us a chance to play with them and be prepared to show all of you some great ways to use them when they become available on July 1st (only 2 days away!!!!)

One of the things I like best about the new colors is the fact that they work so well with each other as well as with many of our existing colors. Depending on what you pair them with, you can easily create a very subtle or very vibrant color scheme. What could be better than more versatility in color combos?Love it! I wanted a more subtle scheme so I paired a couple of them with Pink Pirouette to come up with this:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: On the Grow

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Pool Party, Wisteria Wonder, Whisper White, Flirtatious Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Gray, Wisteria Wonder

Accessories: Big Shot with Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, Markers (Pear Pizzazz, Pink Pirouette, Pool Party, Wisteria Wonder, Sahara Sand)

I think this is destined to become a favorite color combo this year :) These colors seem so delicate together and will be wonderful with all of the "doily" accessories and stamps!! And the new border punch I used on this is amazing!! You will love them! I can't wait to share them with you - they are all just toooo cute! And don't you just love this little scooter??? It's in the Summer Mini catalog and is available through August. It is going to be so much fun playing with some new "toys" this year. I am really looking forward to the new catalog release at the end of the week.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope you enjoyed a little sneak peek at the new In Colors and that awesome new punch!! 'Til next time...........................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Strength and Hope

2011-06-21T14:34:00.005-04:00

One of the retiring Designer Series Papers that I just loved this year is Greenhouse Gala. I have used this a lot!! It coordinated with the Friends Never Fade stamp set which, thankfully, is sticking around awhile longer :) But, I needed to use some of the paper up so this time I used the Strength and Hope stamp set from the Summer Mini Catalog for this card:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Strength and Hope

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Early Espresso, Pear Pizzazz, Whisper White

Ink: Baja Breeze, Early Espresso

Accessories: Baja Breeze 1/2-inch Seam Binding, Stampin' Dimensionals

I really like the way this card turned out. I love this butterfly! I know, I love everything...lol! But, I really do :) The color combinations this DSP offers are so pretty, too. I am really going to miss it. But, I have no doubt there will be a new one that I will love just as much! I have seen a couple of them so far and have not been disappointed in the least - can't wait to share those with you in July!!

Thanks for stopping by today and sharing with me :) I wish you all strength and hope as you go through the day. 'Til next time......................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Friends 24-7

2011-06-20T22:26:00.004-04:00

At my card class this month I wanted to use some stamp sets that are retiring just to remind everyone to be sure to get them while they can :) Friends 24-7 has always been one of my favorites. I am so sad to see it go :( I just love the little bird perched on the tree branch.

This set is also fun to use with the vintage style. And since I haven't done that style lately, I decided this would be a good time to bring it back. So, I got out my sponges and came up with this:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Friends 24-7, Heard From the Heart

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Soft Suede, Poppy Parade

Ink: Crumb Cake, Poppy Parade, Soft Suede

Accessories: Blender Pen, Victoria 5/8-inch Crochet Trim, Early Espresso 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware, Stampin' Sponges, Stampin' Dimensionals

I inked up the flourish image with Crumb Cake ink and then stamped off once before stamping it on the Very Vanilla layer. I sponged around the card base and the small vanilla layer with both Poppy Parade and Soft Suede. Then I sponged the other layers with just Soft Suede. I tilted the pieces when layering them to give it a more dimensional look and attached the layered unit with dimensionals. I colored the bird's chest using Poppy Parade and a blender pen. I think it makes him look like a red-breasted robin :) I always love it when you see the first one in the spring.

I am really going to miss the Hodgepodge Hardware, too. I love using it for accents - especially when I do a vintage card. S0 many of the shapes coordinate with our punches and these little ribbon pulls are perfect with our 1/4-inch Grosgrain Ribbon. Oh, and did I mention you can get it at 40% off right now??!! It is normally priced $29.99 so now is definitely the time to buy it for only $17.97!! Awesome deal and you can purchase it here. But, hurry because it is on a first come - first served basis and only through June 30.

This card was so fun and easy to make. And, it was perfect for my Stampin' Up team. Afterall, we are AT&T - Always Thumpin' and Thwackin'.....lol! In case you don't know, it means we thump our sponges on our ink pads and thwack them across the edges of our cardstock :) It's a great way to have fun with friends!!

I hope this card has inspired you today. Thanks so much for stopping by - I always appreciate your visits :) 'Til next time..................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

The Open Sea Hybrid Card

2011-06-14T13:53:00.010-04:00

I have always been fascinated by clipper ships. When I was in high school (way back when), string art was "the" thing to do. So, I made a clipper ship. It took me a couple of months because you had to pound in a bunch of little nails and then wrap your string around them in a certain pattern to make the sails and the rigging. It was so cool when it was finished. I kept for a number of years and eventually it made it into the garage sale box with so many other "treasures."

Needless to say, I was thrilled with The Open Sea stamp set in the Summer Mini Catalog! I knew I would be using this one a lot!! And then to my utter delight, it was offered as a digital download for My Digital Studio :) Cha-ching!!!! So excited to have this around forever!!

So, for my card class, I knew I wanted to make a card with this. I had done one before but I wanted the ship to be the total focus of my card. I played around with it in My Digital Studio and was able to resize it so it would "fill" the card front just the way I wanted it to. I printed it 6 on a page on Naturals White cardstock and we made this hybrid card:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: The Open Sea

Cardstock: Early Espresso, Not Quite Navy, Naturals White, Nautical Expedition Designer Series Paper

Ink: Early Espresso

Accessories: My Digital Studio, Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine, Stampin' Dimensionals, Blender Pen, Watercolor Crayons - Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze, Cherry Cobbler

I love the way this turned out - however, I must caution you to make sure your compass is straight when you stamp it..lol!! My was definitely off kilter. Must have been in the Bermuda Triangle :) I think using the Naturals White as my card base really allowed the ship to stand out and it was easy to use the blend pens without lifting the paper. And the Baker's Twine was just the perfect embellishment.

I was down on Shelter Island (one of my favorite places) last weekend and saw a sailboat much like this one sailing around the harbor. Note to self - always carry a camera when you go for a drive because you never know where you will end up. I took a picture with my phone but don't have the cord to download it to my computer :( But, I e-mailed it to myself - thank goodness for data plans on cell phones :) This is what I saw:

Here is a little closer view. There was a bunch of people in my way so I had to tilt my phone just a bit to get the ship - plus it was a bit breezy :)

What a way to see San Diego Bay up close and personal :) I would LOVE to go sailing on a boat like this one. But even just watching it from shore was pretty cool! It was so awesome in person!!

Well, I hope you have enjoyed your visit today and that you are inspired to explore more possibilities with stamping :) Thanks so much for stopping by so I could share a little bit of my passion for clipper ships with you. 'Til next time........................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Hello Flowers

2011-06-13T12:15:00.003-04:00

I tried to keep my cards for card class fairly simple this month (well, except for that step card). I just love the Level 1 Hostess set in the Summer Mini and the Hello Flowers from the mini seemed like a perfect match for the swirly words :) So, I put them together and came up with this:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Hello Flowers, Swirls & Curls Verses

Cardstock: Pacific Point, Regal Rose, Whisper White, Beyond the Garden Designer Series Paper

Ink: Pacific Point

Accessories: Pretty In Pink 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon, Markers - Pacific Point, Regal Rose, Wild Wasabi

I just these colors together. They make a card so bright and cheery. I used my markers to color the stamp and just didn't color the letters that are in the center of the flowers. And isn't that "thanks" just too cute?! I love the Swirls & Curls Verses!! There are 5 in all and I intend to use every one of them :) They would be perfect for an all-occasions boxed set of cards. Hmmmm.....I'll have to see what I can come up with for that.....

I hope you enjoyed the card today because it really goes out to all of you. Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting. 'Til next time.........................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Inspired by Nature

2011-06-12T13:23:00.008-04:00

I had a great card class yesterday with 8 wonderful stampers (and friends). We had such a fun time together!! I always look forward to my card class and the good times.

This month I tried to focus on some retiring Designer Series Paper so I could get some of stock used up :) Need to make room for the new ones! I still had some of the Jolly Holiday paper and the more I looked at it, the more I could see it used for so much more than just Christmas. So, I brought out one my favorite sets to come up with this:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Inspired by Nature

Cardstock: Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Very Vanilla

Ink: Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Cherry Cobbler and Old Olive Markers, Old Olive 5/8-inch Grosgrain Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

I colored the grassy image of the stamp set with the Old Olive marker and stamped it, then colored the stemmed flowers with the Old Olive and Cherry Cobbler markers and stamped it over the other image. Then I stamped the sentiment with Black Stazon. I honestly hate to see this Designer Series Paper leave. It was nice to have something so versatile for Christmas and year 'round..and I just LOVE these two colors together! When I first started with Stampin' Up six years ago I wasn't sure how I felt about Old Olive. But, over the course of time, I have grown to love it just as much as all of the others :)

The Jolly Holiday DSP and the Old Olive ribbon I used on this card will both be gone forever at the end of the month (if not sooner). You can still purchase them here.

Thanks so much for stopping by today - as always, I enjoy our visits. 'Til next time....................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Cottage Garden Step Card

2011-06-10T13:49:00.003-04:00

For quite some time now, I have seen Step Cards posted on the yahoo groups that I belong to. They just always looked a bit complicated so I was just content to comment about how pretty they were.....until last week. Someone (sorry, I can't for the life of me remember who) posted one that was so different and I knew I HAD to try one :) I love being challenged by other crafters!

I wanted to showcase some of the designer series paper that is retiring so I chose Sunny Garden. The colors are so bright and cheery and there is a coordinating stamp set - woohoo!! So, I took it off the shelf and this is how it turned out:

I was soooo happy with it!! And it was so simple - I kick myself now for waiting so long to try this. It was way easier than I thought. This is how the card looks from the side:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Cottage Garden

Cardstock: Daffodil Delight, Poppy Parade, Whisper White, Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper

Ink: Daffodil Delight, Pear Pizzazz, Poppy Parade

Accessories: Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Daffodil Delight 1/8-Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

This really was very easy to make. If I can remember where I got the directions, I will post it - or maybe we will get lucky and the person who did this will leave a comment for us :)

I stamped the small poppy parade flowers on the dsp pieces on the sides and created my own "dsp" for the center with stamps from the set. There is a sheet similar to it in the pack of paper but I love being able to create my own. It's fun to make it any color I choose. This Designer Series Paper is on the Last Chance so you will want to buy it soon!! You can purchase it here. I have this card cut for my card class on Saturday - I hope my gals don't panic when they see it :)

Thanks for stopping by today and letting my share with you - I always enjoy your visits :) 'Til next time.................................

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Sneak Peek!!

2011-06-07T14:55:00.004-04:00

This will be the only sneak peek I offer for the new Stampin' Up catalog that comes out July 1st. I am so excited about it and all of the new things it offers but I don't want to spoil everything for you :)

I held my June downline meeting last night and we always do a swap. So, I knew not all of them had gotten their preorders yet and I wanted to show them some fun stuff. I got out the new In Colors and the gorgeous designer series paper to make this:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Happy Greetings

Cardstock: Melon Mambo, Wisteria Wonder, Whisper White, Flirtatious Specialty Paper

Accessories: Melon Mambo and Wisteria Wonder Markers, Basic Pearls, Pretty In Pink 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

I just love the little doilies that can be cut from 2 of the sheets in the Flirtatious Specialty Paper. They are so cute to add to cards and scrapbook pages. They remind me of the doilies my grandmother always had on her tables. I put the ribbon over top of the piece punched with the Lace Border Punch, so you will see even more of that later.........you will LOVE it!!! It is sooooo pretty! Wisteria Wonder is one of the new In Colors for 2011-2013. It goes so well with Concord Crush and Elegant Eggplant - I love being able to layer my cards with different shades of the same color. I can see using this one a lot!! The stamp set is in the Summer Mini Catalog so you don't have to wait to purchase that :) It is available now through August.

Don't forget that this month is the last opportunity to get those items from the Last Chance Lists. You can click the links at the top of the left column to see what is leaving and go to my online store to purchase them before they are gone forever. Some of the accessories have already sold out so don't delay!!

Thanks for stopping by today and I hope you enjoyed my little sneak peek at some new items. 'Til next time..............................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Lots Going On!!!

2011-06-01T22:42:00.003-04:00

Wow, life has been a whirlwind lately!! I finally finished my project and my card for Butterflies, Bugs, and Blossoms....there is still time to sign up for the event. There are some AMAZING projects waiting for you :) Just click the link in the left column to sign up.

I have also been working on a project in My Digital Studio. I love this program!! At first, I was apprehensive about even purchasing it because I have always been a "hands-on" scrapbooker. But, the more I work in it, the more I love it!! It is so easy to swap things out to get it just the way you want it. Even if I never print anything, I could use it to design my regular pages making it super simple to create an album. And it is a wonderful way to do all of your journaling.

Here is the cover of the album I have been working on:

I purchased the digital download of the fabulous Nautical Expedition Designer Series Paper from the Summer Mini Catalog and the Baker's Twine download. With that, I was able to add this page:

This is just tooooo fun!!! I have a total of 5 pages completed with lots more to put together. I will most likely have this printed so my son and his girlfriend will have a hardcover book as a keepsake from their trip out here over Spring Break. I had such a great time with them when they were here and I want to give them something really nice to remember it by. This book will be less bulky than a big album and I can have it shipped directly to them from the printer :) I was actually hoping to finish it during the month of May as the printing was 30% off, but it just wasn't in the cards....lol!! Oh well, so much for great ideas!

And now, here it is the first of June!!! Many of you know that is the time for the Last Chance Lists from Stampin' Up :( You will find the links at the top of the left column to view the stamp sets, accessories, and decor elements that will be leaving us at the end of the month. Sooo many of my favorites will be gone forever :( But, it is a great time for you to get in on some good deals on accessories - quite a few are discounted at 25% and 40% off!! Be sure to click the link for my Online Store to get your order placed early. The accessories and decor elements are sold on a first come - first serve basis and the availability will change quickly!!

I hate to see so much leave but I am anxious to see all that is new!! This time of the year is like Christmas to SU demonstrators!! New catalogs and new products - life doesn't get any better for a devoted stamper :) 'Til next time................................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

And The Winner Is.....

2011-05-21T16:52:00.004-04:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Saturday. Here in Santee, it is sunny and just an absolutely beautiful day!!

I have been busy working on my project for Butterflies, Bugs and Blooms and I know you are all anxious to find out who has won my FREE pass to the event. So, I won't keep you in suspense any longer.......drum roll please...........

riclyn said.......

How exciting! Let the adventure begin!
Lynn

Congratulations, Lynn. I know you will enjoy your adventure with us. Thank you so much to everyone who left a comment. Sadly, I could only award one pass but there is still time for the rest of you to get the early bird price of $15. Just head on over to Cheryl's blog to get signed up. We look forward to seeing you "in the garden."

'Til next time.....................

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Fun New Adventure and a Freebie

2011-05-16T22:22:00.005-04:00

I am so excited to be part of a new adventure with a fantastic group of stampers!! It is a fun online event in which you will receive 10 projects in 15 days. There will also be some fun challenges you can join :) The projects will be both 3-D and cards each with it's own step-by-step tutorial. This group of designers is amazing and I know you will not be disappointed with the event.

To celebrate being part of the design team, I am offering a FREE subscription to one lucky visitor. To enter the drawing, just leave a comment to this post and tell me what you like best - Butterflies, Bugs, or Blooms (that is the theme of the projects). To join, just click on the link in the left column or click on the picture in this post.

The early bird price is only $15!!! That is just $1.50 per tutorial - what a great deal!!

I will hold the drawing on May 21st so be sure to check back to see if you are the winner. I won't ask you to leave your contact info in the post (but you are welcome to if you choose) but I will need it if you win so be sure to check back. You can e-mail it to me privately then.

This is going to be so fun and it will be some wonderful projects you can re-create for summer activities. I hope you will hop on over to Cherylann's blog and sign up today!! Hope to see all of you in our "little garden of Butterflies, Bugs & Blooms." 'Til next time.......................

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

VC Rocks Blog Hop - Color My World

2011-05-14T23:10:00.005-04:00

I hope you are enjoying the VC Rocks Blog Hop!! There are some amazing projects for your viewing pleasure from some very talented ladies - 30 of them!!!!

You probably just arrived from the blog of the very talented Angela Walters. She is awesome! I just love her work.

With the theme this month being "Color My World" I couldn't help but combine some bright colors with some coloring techniques for my project. And with spring in the air and summer on it's way, I had to choose a stamp set from the Summer Mini Catalog. I chose "Touch of Kindness" to create this card:

I just adore these little birds in the birdbath. It reminds me of the scene outside the living room window here at my parents' home. They do get pretty lively sometimes :) To color the image, I used the pastels and markers. I colored the sentiment from "Word Play" with markers, then huffed (the only time that is legal) before stamping it on the cardstock:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Touch of Kindness, Word Play

Cardstock: Tangerine Tango, Wild Wasabi, Whisper White, Beyond the Garden Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Gray

Accessories: Big Shot with Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Whisper White 3/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Pastels, Stampin' Write Markers, Stampin' Dimensionals, Blender Pen

I love using the pastels for a very subtle coloring effect. I like the markers when I want a bolder image like I got with the sentiment. Mixing and matching is always fun and helps add dimension to your project. I hope I have inspired you to explore the possibilities with some color today and that you enjoy the rest of the projects on the blog hop. Your next stop is with Debbie Martin - you will not be disappointed!!

'Til next time..............................,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!