my joy

SPOT!!

2009-07-06T07:12:00.000-07:00

The challenge over on the A Muse blog this week is to create a card around the word SPOT. I immediately thought of a birthday card I had made for a friend who was having a game-themed birthday party---it was a blast! This card obviously has tons of spots with the Twister board-but I couldn't resist adding a few sparkle spots as well. :)

Can't wait to browse everyone's SPOT cards! Have fun!

Time flies....

2009-07-05T22:18:00.000-07:00

when you have a baby! :) I'm not sure where these last 5 months have gone---but clearly, they haven't gone to updating my blog! :) So sorry to have been so MIA for awhile-but for anyone who might still check this blog, I promise to be back with SOME regularity---starting NOW! :)

Check back a bit later to see an actual CARD-what?!!? Yes, I made a card-hooray!

In the meantime--here is our new addition: Keaton. :)

What's inside?

2008-12-25T21:20:00.000-08:00

I love candy..so of course I had to put some little holiday chocolate mints into my advent box...hopefully they weren't rolling all over everywhere when the box was opened! :)

Hope Christmas was happy for all!

Holiday bird

2008-12-23T09:36:00.000-08:00

I love this little cutie....& this was the first time I stamped him up. I made this card for all my friends & family who celebrate a holiday OTHER than Christmas....I'm pleased with how it turned out & how QUICK it was to mass produce.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Winter Solstice & Happy Kwanza---enjoy the season with your family & friends!

:)

Finally!!

2008-12-22T19:25:00.000-08:00

OY. My internet connection has been on the FRITZ for about a week---I get about 20 minutes per day, randomly during the day. Sorry I haven't posted like I said I would---

So finally, here is my other Holiday Shopper card. I really like to use her for birthday cards---and it's fun to color her & her gifts in lots of fun colors!

If my computer lets me, I've got one more holiday-ish card before Christmas...hope to be back tomorrow! :)

Advent!

2008-12-18T11:48:00.001-08:00

I totally forgot that the 18th was my day over on the A Muse blog for my Advent box....mine is so dull compared to all the others--I decorated each side--but of course, didn't take a photo before dropping it off-DOH! :) Oh well, it was a fun little project-easy peasy.

I'll be back tomorrow with the other Holiday Shopper card---now I'm off to keep looking out my window at the pretty pretty snow in Seattle! :)

2 days in a row...

2008-12-17T18:19:00.000-08:00

wonders never cease! :) Over at the A Muse blog, it's Oldie but Goodie day with one of my very very favorites---Holiday Shopper! My email has been all wonky so my card didn't make it to the proper place (sorry Heather!)---but I thought I'd post it here. I've actually made 2 cards-a holiday & non-holiday---so come back tomorrow & see little Miss Shopper in all her non-Christmas glory! :)

Hope everyone's shopping is done...or close! :)

No excuse

2008-12-16T15:42:00.001-08:00

Honestly---2 months!?!? OY. If anyone is still looking at this blog, I so apologize for my delinquent posting....slapping myself on the hand for that one. :)

So here is my Christmas card for this year...pretty simple to duplicate 50ish times. :) I love the sentiment stamp--such a sweet one for the holiday season. Hope everyone has been enjoying the season so far--I can't believe Christmas is 8 days away. I promise to be back with some more holiday inspired cards! Thanks again to everyone reading for sticking with me! :)

Pumpkin Tree

2008-10-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

I love this stamp, it combines my love of trees & Halloween all in one. Head on over to the A Muse blog to see some more great ideas for this great image!

Happy Haunting! :)

Mr. Turkey

2008-10-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

I love decorations for Thanksgiving...it just makes the day that much more festive-& not all about EATING, though that is enjoyable too. :) This would be a VERY easy card to duplicate for a Thanksgiving host/hostess--just to say thanks for stuffing you full of, well, stuffing. :)

Gobble gobble.

I heart October

2008-10-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

Love it. Love the fall...rain & all. I'm sure I'm having some fist shaking at me right now, I always get many an eye roll when I say I'm excited that summer is over & fall is on it's way....but alas, I just can't help it. :) I'm headed to NY tomorrow & am very excited to see it with the changing colors on the trees & crisp air....I can hardly wait!

I love the crow from the A Muse Halloween release---fantastic. I outlined him with black glitter---but it didn't show up so well in the photo. Oh well, the colors instantly say Halloween & Fall, which makes me smile. :)

Hope you're all enjoying October!

First day of fall!

2008-09-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

In honor of the first day of fall, I thought it only appropriate to post a card from the best thing about fall....HALLOWEEN! This is totally my favorite time of year & I've already started thinking about putting up my Halloween decorations this coming weekend--I can't wait!

I love both of the trees in this card-speaking of trees, have you picked up the new tree clear sets over at the A Muse website? What are you waiting for.....ADORABLE!!!

Happy fall!

NOW it's summer. :)

2008-09-15T13:05:00.000-07:00

We have had a consistent 3 weeks of sun here in Seattle.....which followed what seemed 5 weeks of grey & rainy weather. Summer showed up late this year. :)

This card reminds me heading to the Pike Place Market in the summer with all the GORGEOUS flower stalls...you can NOT be in a bad mood after looking at all the bouquets & loose flowers-to die for.

Happy Monday!

Happy Bird!

2008-09-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a card for my sweet friend Sharon (HAPPY BIRTHDAY!) I never knew how much I would use this sentiment...I honestly use it ALL. THE. TIME. :) There are just so many cute bird images out that it always seems to make it's way with them. I'm pretty happy with this card, & since I am always in need of birthday cards, I might make a few more of these in various color schemes to have on hand. Plan ahead Melissa, plan ahead. :)

Have a great day!

Never too early...

2008-09-08T11:34:00.000-07:00

for HALLOWEEN!!! Here is a quick & simple card-always my favorite kind. I'm in love with the Martha Stewart Onyx glitter---much more sparkle than other black glitters I've used--& the candelabra stamp-it is DANG cute. :) Yippee Halloween!

After all, I live here.

2008-09-05T15:30:00.000-07:00

Another Seattle card. :) I've got some Halloween ones coming (my fave!!!), but I thought I'd post this one today. This scene could be a typical Seattle day, rain & all. I love the "road" from the Fancy Borders clear set-it's perfect & quick! I think I should have added some glitter to the rain drops to make them pop-plus, rain is ALWAYS better if it's sparkly! :)

Have a great weekend--rain or sun!

Flying Fish!

2008-09-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

If anyone has ever been to the Pike Place Market in Seattle, you have no doubt seen the fish throwers....there is always a HUGE crowd gathered around watching the craziness happen. It's pretty funny to watch, & the best part is when the guys have to continually ask the crowd...."Does anyone actually want to BUY any fish?" :) I always wonder if they throw more than they sell.

This card is my ode to the fish throwers....& I love the new market stamp! So perfect for us in Seattle, but really for anyone who has a fun outdoor market in their area. For sure go snap up the new Seattle images over at the A Muse website (which is new & beautiful if you haven't checked it out!)

Watch out for those crazy salmon.... :)

Oldie but Goodie

2008-08-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

In keeping with the theme of today's post over on the A Muse blog, I thought I would post a card using the party flag stamp. Seriously, this stamp is really versatile---not only for parties or invites, but also great with blank flags that you can fill in yourself...as I've done here. :)

There's that darn baby carriage again....this time all sparkly & pink for a sweet little girl!

Honestly.....17 days????

2008-08-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

How have I been addicted to the TV for 17days??? Those darn Olympics sucked me in.....even sports I find dull, (ummm, really with the 4 hour coverage of the marathons?) I still watched. And watched some more. :)

Here's an old card I found which works pretty well for that endless marathon. ;) Really, I'm just jealous that my butt can't run more than 2 minutes without wanting to cry. :)

Did anyone else get suckered in?

Back to School!

2008-08-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

Over on the A Muse blog today there are a few "back to school" cards with a plaid/argyle theme....including this one! I wish you could see their dresses better-as they are also argyle-which reminded me of the 8 years of blue school uniforms I wore.

Also, today is the beginning of sneak peeks for the new HALLOWEEN release! There are many cute cute cards around on the design team & instructors blogs---look around to be inspired!

Happy Friday!

Changin' it up!

2008-08-13T13:58:00.000-07:00

As I'm sure many of you know, this little girl doesn't always have a baby buggy with her...but I thought the two together would make a cute baby card! I really like how this card turned out-the A Muse baby buggy is one of my faves---& darn it if it's been a long time since I've used the beautiful stitched ribbon, oh how I love it so. :)

Just a reminder-this sweet girl can be found exclusively on the A Muse blog-item #F0077-Girl & Frog. While you're there...add some ribbon or some new stamps from A Muse or Saltbox to your order---I'm sure you deserve it! :)

Where did the sun go?

2008-07-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

It's a bit overcast here today so I thought I'd post a card that "screams" summer in the hopes it will bring the sunshine back out! This card was in the A Muse Weekly a few weeks back-which again, is a great place for ideas & fun treats from A Muse. I think this might have been the first time I had inked up Miss Hula Girl---what a tragedy!

Hope it's sunny where you are!

Bright & Cheerful!

2008-07-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

I love the colors on this card!! I'm not sure I love the layout---but the colors (and those mushrooms), yes sir! :) Hope they make you smile!

I needed a reminder....

2008-07-11T13:50:00.001-07:00

about this card! :) After reading this weeks A Muse Newsletter-which, by the way is so filled with goodness you should FOR SURE sign up to receive it-I was reminded after seeing super Emily's card, that I had one very similar! The little birdbath is the cutest--& pairs perfectly with "splish splash."

Hope you all have been enjoying all the PALOOZA-ING that has been going on-the designers out did themselves with their sneaks--what creative girls! Have you run out of money yet with all the purchasing?!? :)

Enjoy your weekend!

Dots, dots & more dots!

2008-07-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

The Polka Dot challenge is up over on the A Muse-A-Palooza blog-I couldn't pass this challenge up, I love polka dots! The sparkler stamp is one of my faves & I love the Kitchen notecards.....simple simple!

Enjoy your 4th of July! :)

For the love of Pete...

2008-06-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

I am a giant slacker!!! Goodness it's been awhile since I've posted...I so apologize! I'm back...& so are my creative juices...slowly but surely. :)

I had totally forgotten about this card-but I was so happy with how it came out. The hiker boy could NOT be any cuter...and though it's a boy, totally reminds me of my years at summer camp---sigh, I loved camp. :)

Hope summer has fully kicked in for everyone, the weather here is a sure sign of summer-88 degrees today! Yippee!

See you soon, I promise. ;)

AP Color Challenge!

2008-06-03T08:41:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to participate in this fun challenge---what great colors to put all together!

Make sure to check out the AP blog to see how everyone else uses the colors---it's amazing that no one does it the same!

Hope you're having fun so far!

The countdown starts Monday!!

2008-05-30T15:38:00.001-07:00

Head to the official site to register, check out the participating stores near you, read the blog & join in all the fun activities leading up to the big release!

Spring.

2008-05-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Cherry blossom trees are so beautiful...even when all the blossoms fall, it looks like pretty pink snow. We have quite a few on our street & it makes me smile in the morning when I see them. I KNOW Spring is here when they are in bloom...even if the weather isn't completely cooperating. :)

I tried my best to make this into a pretty cherry blossom tree---I love all the twinkle stickers! I was just going to use green & pink but am really glad I added the yellow ribbon & butterflies...it only adds to the happy Spring feeling.

Hope everyone enjoyed the 3 day weekend!

Who wouldn't like....

2008-05-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

blue mushrooms & an orange bird?! :) Actually, blue mushrooms might scare the b'jeez out of me...but on paper their pretty dang cute. :) I love the colors on this one-bright & cheerful, & I think it's a fun card to just say hello!

BTW-love the Orange Crush Kitchen Dot 4bar cards. Love them. Putting a heart tattoo on my arm for them I love them so. :)

Happy Friday!

Happy Anniversary A Muse!!!

2008-05-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Congrats on a wonderful 7 years in the business...I couldn't be happier for you! :)

In honor of the lucky number 7....I thought I would list my 7 favorite A Muse stamps:

1) Tiny Bird
2) Birch Trees
3) Holiday Shopper
4) Parade
5) Cupcake
6) Brownstone
7) Lizzie

Some of these I use ALL the time & some like the brownstone-I've never used. :) But it makes me SO happy when I look at it--it reminds me of NY, my very favorite place....

In coming up with my 7 faves-I had such a hard time choosing, proving that A Muse does a wonderful job with all their products---everything is fantastic! Happy day to you A Muse! :)

ETA:: Head over to the A Muse blog to participate in a FUN contest for their anniversary!

Simple.

2008-05-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

This card has many of my faves: the little princess girl, the green 4bar card, the Copic color Coral (seriously, pick it up if you don't have it), & the Elzybell sentiment. Of course there are many a princess in the actual Elzybell collection that work with this, but I hadn't used the A Muse girl in a while, so there you have it. :)

I love it when a card comes together in about 10 minutes-easy peasy.

Have a great weekend!

Apparently...

2008-05-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

the love affair with the cupcake is TAKING OVER my creative energy! It seems as though the sweet cake is showing up quite a bit on my cards lately-not that I'm complaining. :)

I love these two little buddies, & would love to use them as actual cupcake toppers someday. I used this Elzybell sentiment-not only because the cupcakes are friends, but also because the cupcake & moi are so BFF!!! :)

Now seriously, go eat a cupcake. :)

May day (1 day late) :)

2008-05-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

TOTALLY forgot to post this card yesterday-d'oh! I remember when I was little putting flowers on the neighbors doorsteps, ringing the bell & running...what a happy surprise to receive flowers at your door. Though, as I was 4 or 5-it was probably some crazy dandelion weed I pulled. Oh well, the thought that counts. :)

This little Elzybell flower bouquet is so sweet & versatile-it really could be used for any type of card. I added some twinkle stickers in the middle of the flowers for a little extra somethin'! If I had been thinking-which I wasn't-I could have made the "Happy day" sentiment into "Happy may"-nuts. Maybe next year!

Did you have fun shopping yesterday? :)

Hip hip hooray!!

2008-05-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

It's shopping day! Head to the A Muse blog & start purchasing your little heart out! Don't forget about the great new paper & notecards, I'm going to pick up some today too!
This little girl is from the new Celebration Kids Clear set---& I"m pretty much in love with it. Couldn't be cuter. :)

Happy shopping!!

Life is good

2008-04-30T09:07:00.001-07:00

It doesn't take much for life to be good---coffee & a cupcake will do the trick for sure. :) I love this to-go cup in the new release-it would be great for making gift card holders for coffee cards, I know I have lots of people who love those! You all know how much I love the cupcake, so it's pretty easy to see why this whole scene makes me super happy.

Ok, did you notice the new 4bar card? Pretty pretty pale blue...the colors being released are gorgeous-so soft. Highly recommend picking some of those up along with stamps you're dying to have!

One more day til you can shop shop shop!

Another sneak...

2008-04-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

How cute is this little guy? I thought he would pair perfectly with the A Muse tent (minus the feet)-a great summer camping scene! The sentiment is new as well, and every time I see it or use it....the song runs through my head-again, & again & again! :)

Hope you've been enjoying the sneaks-remember YOU too can have all these on May 1st!

...until we meet again.... :)

Phew, that was fun! :)

2008-04-27T18:07:00.001-07:00

I thought I'd post my cards I made for the VMAA challenges last night-it was a blast making them at the A Muse retail store with Novell, Heather, Rhonda & Linda-such a fun group to stamp with!

First challenge: No Embellishments

I love this birdie from the last release-& I had yet to ink him up! I'm not overly thrilled with how this one turned out...I think I might re-do & post the new one...I think it has something to do with the white scallop-hmmm. :)

Second challenge: Glitter

OK-the girls couldn't believe that last night was the first time I had ever used my Seattle girl stamp--what took me so long?!? She's pretty cute in her yellow slicker....& the raindrops are the perfect addition!

Third challenge: Sketch

I have NEVER done a sketch before-EVER. So this was a challenge....that thankfully, Rhonda helped me make MUCH cuter than I had originally planned out. I made my card & had the upper left area all blank & blue---& she gave me the smart idea to add the sweet shop! That is WHY you stamp with other people I tell you! :) Thanks again Rhonda!

Fourth challenge: B&W

This card is much better in real life-that black glitter on the chairs is pretty cool. I'm actually happy with this card-& I thought for sure this would be the hardest challenge for me.

Fifth challenge: Weekend

I loved Linda's challege to define "weekend" for yourself. I L*O*V*E looking at open houses on Sundays & am always plotting which ones I would live in. The cute house on this card is probably the closest I'll get for awhile to a new house...so I'll just keep dreaming on the weekends!

Thanks again to Geeta, Michelle, Jennie & Rhonda for putting all the challenges together-it was great fun!

I'll be back tomorrow with another Sneak Peek!

Sneaks are back!!

2008-04-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

I love sneak peek time---so fun. Here is a card with 2 new images, birdhouse & song bird....& I love them!! How cute is this bird? With her little house? I love it. :) I love all these colors together & the little sparkle Miss Birdie has makes her that much more special!

Enjoy looking around all the A Muse gals blogs-I've seen some great stuff out there! Have fun tonight too with VMAA-I can't wait!

Hooray!

2008-04-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

How exciting is this? A Muse Instructor Michelle White is opening up her very own shop---filled with the ENTIRE line of A Muse goodness!! Pretty sure that it's going to be the best store ever...& it's in sunny San Diego, & sunny sounds real good right about now. :) If you're in the area catch the opening on May 1st, or the GRAND opening with A Muse Queen Linda on May 31st-so fun! Hmmmm, maybe I need a vaca. :)

VMAA #2-so fun!

2008-04-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

The 2nd installment of VMAA ( Virtual Meeting of A Muse Addicts) is happening this Saturday, April 26 from 8-10pm CST. I wasn't able to participate last time, but will be heading to the A Muse retail store to meet up with some other A Muse gals to have a fun night of stamping. If you haven't yet joined the addicts forum head here & register. They have a ton of fun stuff going on all the time...and of course it's all A Muse!! (What could be better?) :)

Hope to see lots of people stamping on Saturday!!

Spring?? Who knows.

2008-04-21T10:59:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd post this card in the hopes of spring colors bringing spring weather. :) The weather here has been the NUTS this last weekend...believe me, the last thing I would have wanted to be doing is golfing-you would have been in rain, snow, hail, thunder & sun all throughout your game. Crazy.

I do love the color scheme here...so happy & calm. I think the Elzy golf bag goes quite nicely with the new A Muse golf girl...perfect to a TEE...get it? HAHAHA. Yeah, I'm not funny. :)

Hope someone out there has been enjoying some Spring weather!

I feel like...

2008-04-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

SHOPPING!!! I've had this itch to get myself to stores and do some retail therapy lately. :) I'm not really one who gets excited to go shopping, but for some reason, I've got it on the brain. I would love to have this, & maybe these....& these too. :)

So little shopping Elzy is perfect for the mood I'm in...I wish I had that many bags of fun new things! I wish the sentiment had shown up a bit better, but oh well-I KNOW she's having fun. :)

Thanks!

2008-04-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all the get well messages...I'm feeling great, no more cold! That means I should have some new cards to post soon...

Just wanted to say thanks again! :)

Drat.

2008-04-08T08:50:00.000-07:00

I caught the nasty cold bug that's been going around.

So the fact that I was planning on posting this card today that I was going to give to my mom, is fitting for me too. :) The colors in this card-even the brown-really cheer me up, which you need when you have cough due to cold. :) I love the pop that the Lime Green grosgrain stitch ribbon gives to the whole card, I'm telling you this ribbon is super.

To anyone who's under the weather.....feel better. (she says blowing her nose). :)

Sweet bird

2008-04-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

Really, I love this bird & her little bee friend. It's such a versatile stamp which is one of my favorite things about it. This card was super easy & really came together after I added the Popsicle Pink stitched grosgrain from A Muse-this ribbon is the bestest. :)

Enjoy your day, it's sunny here....HOORAY!!!

Shopping Day!

2008-04-01T09:14:00.000-07:00

Head on over to the A Muse Blog for all the great new stamps...I know I'm going to be picking up some of the new clear sets after seeing so many cute designs on the A Muse Designers/Instructors blogs! Thanks guys for the enabling! :) Look on the left side of Linda's blog for the link to view all the goodies!

Have a fun day!

Running + me = not friends. :)

2008-03-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

I am a HORRIBLE runner. I was the kid who when you had to run around the block in gym class would run half the first street, and then walk the rest. I wasn't out of shape-I just stink at running! :) I've been trying to do it lately-and while it's a bit better...I still never look forward to it.

So, I was surprised that I was as drawn to cutie runner girl! But, really how could you not be? This sentiment + this girl DO equal friends--so perfect for running-and will now be my mantra when I'm huffin & puffin on the treadmill! :) Emily has a super card on her blog with the same sentiment---I'm secretly loving hers a bit more than mine. :)

Enjoy your weekend!

FORE!

2008-03-27T09:25:00.001-07:00

I'm not a good golfer...I lose it in the putting. :) I do love this little golfer girl-she's too cute & fits so well with many of the other A Muse golf stamps, like the sentiment used here. This card could not have been easier-stamp the scene, color & go! I also love the clear twinkle stickers (used as the golf ball)-you might need to add some of those to your purchase!

Don't forget-this new release will be available on March 31st....only a few more days of waiting!

The ballet. (sigh of happiness)

2008-03-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

This card is really supposed to be me when I was younger. I ADORED ballerinas-especially those at Pacific Northwest Ballet. I did A LOT of dancing as a kid & just was so amazed & inspired that you could really be a dancer for your job. I still am in awe of dancers & get super happy when I get to attend a performance.

So, the card. :) For once, you can tell that her dress is super glittery-hooray! The outside edge of the scallop punch is done with a Copic marker which is so easy-I love "edging" this way.

Hope you're enjoying all the sneaks...tune in tomorrow for another!

Sneaks are coming! Sneaks are coming!

2008-03-25T12:04:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the day-sneaks all around! Make sure to check back here & all the other A Muse designers & instructors blogs-it will make for a happy happy day!

This is part of my desk...aka-the bomb. The other side (with LOTS of new stuff) is crazy messy....plus I just like all the pens in this photo. At least this could prove I've been hard at work! :)

Countdown....

I'm a princess!

2008-03-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

Not me of course. :)

I have been an off & on nanny for a family for 6 1/2 years & today we are celebrating the 5th birthday of the little girl, Lucy. I asked her what kind of party she was going to have & she said, "Melissa, OF COURSE fairy princess party." I was like, well that will be fun, but I thought you would have chosen Hello Kitty or Polly Pocket or something. She says, with a very dramatic pause, "but Melissa............I AM a princess." Right, duh, how did I not know that!! :) Gotta love the 5 year old. :)

Pretty sure she'll love this card--it's pink, it's purple, it's princess, it's got glitter & her name is on it. Phew---hope I didn't miss anything! :)

Enjoy your weekend!

Just because

2008-03-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

I *love* Elzy girl in her car...love it. I smile whenever I see a cute little bug on the road-& now I can smile every time I look at my "bug" stamp.

I think I might re-do this card with different colors...I'm not overly happy with it. I wish I had done the sentiment in pink like the butterflies....& not outlined anything. Oh well, you win some you lose some. :)

Enjoy the last day of winter---YIPPEE!!!!

Almost Easter???

2008-03-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Craziness. I can't believe how quick Easter is coming this year...was it not JUST Valentine's Day? :)

Here is a simple & quick Easter card-I love the juggling duck & there are so many things you can do with the little eggs (check out the Elzybell blog to see 2 other ideas!)

Enjoy!

Can we discuss

2008-03-07T10:49:00.000-08:00

the *LOVE* I have of cupcakes? (they were my wedding "cake"!) Of course, the delicious sweetness is a big part of my love affair-but I also just love how cute they are, how people are getting so DANG clever with designs & flavors, & how many shops are popping up dedicated solely to the cupcake. Genius. :)

My favorite of these shops is Trophy Cupcakes. The place makes me want to pack my pillow & blanket & move right in. It is the cutest...place...ever. :) Oh, & the sweet cakes themselves are to die for. Ummm, Red Velvet? Chai tea? Snickerdoodle? Seriously, I'm smiling thinking about them. HIGHLY suggest going there.

After that rambling...it's probably clear why I made this card. :)

Pretty sure I've got to have a cupcake this weekend!

Whoooo likes yellow?

2008-03-04T11:07:00.000-08:00

So I finally got around to doing Heather's challenge: having yellow as the main focus of your card. Thank goodness for the Yellow Kitchen Collection 4bar note card....so perfect for this challenge. I also got around to using one of the owls from the new Nature clear sets---I *heart* this owl. It's hard to see in the photo (of course), but his wing & eyes have a great brown/copper glitter on them.

I wish my sentiment was a bit darker, but alas, I finished the challenge! :) Maybe this week I'll actually get it done on Friday!

Friends

2008-03-02T20:16:00.000-08:00

This Elzybell image is just the sweetest-my girlfriends mean the world to me & this image captures how happy I am when they are around-hugs for all! :)

I really like the colors on the card-just not sure if I love the layout-hmmm, I'll keep thinking & get back to you. :)

I had a super day of stamping with the girls ( Adelina, Novell & Joyce)-so fun & such a treat to have inspiration right next to you! :) Hope you all had a great weekend!

Finally!

2008-02-27T12:55:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to make a card with "Bossy Elzy" since I got her...but struggled with what sentiment to use. I used the "nuts" from "nuts about you" from the A Muse Valentine release to create a cute belated birthday card. Look, she's all dressed up in her party hat & is STILL late...nuts! :)

Hope you've been enjoying all your new Spring images!

Today is...

2008-02-19T09:45:00.000-08:00

SHOPPING DAY!!! Go here to purchase all the little spring & easter Elzys, new notecards & ribbon! Have fun!

Wishing...

2008-02-18T09:54:00.000-08:00

This little duckie is pretty cute with his ladybug friend. Aren't you supposed to wish on ladybugs? That's why I decided to go with the "make a wish" sentiment. Again, a new color 4bar card ( a FANTASTIC chocolate brown) & a new color of stitched grosgrain ribbon! If you can, buy the cards & ribbon in mass...you will be so happy you did!

Don't forget-tomorrow is SHOPPING day over at the Elzybell blog!

Check out...

2008-02-17T15:26:00.001-08:00

the Elzybell's blog today-I have a sneaky peek up there! Make sure to come back here tomorrow, I'll have another new one to show you!

Enjoy!

Not so sneaky peek! :)

2008-02-15T09:58:00.000-08:00

I know you've already seen this new image over on the Elzybell blog-but I figured I could still show you mine. I was just trying to make it 1/2 as great as Emily's-I seriously love hers. Do you love the new green 4bar card? It is the best color in real life, & only fuels my addiction to using green all the time! :)

SPRING is super sparkly-too bad it doesn't show up so well in the photo! Hope you've been enjoying all the sneaks...get ready to shop on the 19th!

Sneaky Peek!!

2008-02-14T08:32:00.001-08:00

Are you ready? This release not only includes crazy cute stamps but new note cards & ribbon as well. Do you like the new purple dot 4bar card? How about the sweet stitched grosgrain ribbon? Let me tell you, the colors for this release are FANTASTIC for both the cards & ribbon!

Little duck is pretty adorable with a sparkle flower...these colors just scream SPRING!! Go check out everyone's sneaks... Emily's card on the Elzybell blog is gorgeous!

Valentine

2008-02-13T11:22:00.000-08:00

Here's a Valentine I made for friends...I love little Elyse-she's just too cute. This card is UBER-simple: the little ribbon and glitter on the heart tie everything together!

Don't forget-A Muse & Elzybell sneaks start tomorrow- come back & see what cuties they've come out with this time! :)

Little Birdie

2008-02-10T11:44:00.000-08:00

So one of my MOST favorite stamps from A Muse is Tiny Bird...I seriously can't get enough & find myself using it for any & every occasion.

Tiny Bird might have been replaced. :)

I think Little Bird is too cute! Her big ol' head is adorable & I love her bow. She was my very first stamp I inked up from the A Muse Valentine's release...& I'm feeling like she is going to become one of my "regulars."

I like this card for a valentine for a friend-just a few little hearts & sweet sentiment & you're good to go!

Say what?!?

2008-02-07T13:31:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe, but this is the first card post WITHOUT an A Muse or Elzybell image! Crazy!

I *adore* this pinwheel-seriously, can't get enough of it. It couldn't be more simple, but really, I just smile when I see it. I love these scalloped note cards from Paper Source-they make this card a breeze. Plus the glitter...couldn't be better.

I'm thinking & thinking...

2008-01-30T22:30:00.000-08:00

Although this little girl is thinking of L-O-V-E, I'm trying to THINK creatively & it's not working out so well. I thought I'd post her so I can remember what it looks like when you're happy & thinking...& not wanting to pull your hair out! :)

Creative block stinks.

Featured!

2008-01-25T12:52:00.000-08:00

Four of my cards are featured today on the Elzybell blog-let me know what you think! :)

Have a great weekend!

For Jenn :)

2008-01-24T17:25:00.000-08:00

When I first saw the Elzybell phone girl, I knew I wanted to make a card with two girls chatting. I'm not a big phone person, but I do love when I get to chat with my friend Jenn who lives far away.

I'm not sure I totally love this card-maybe it's the colors, or the bad crease on the fold-who knows! Oh well, my first attempt at a non-standard card...I'll keep trying!

One of my very favorites...

2008-01-22T15:12:00.000-08:00

One of my design team assignment cards is up on today's post here. I *loved* this card when I made it-the colors, the sentiment, the hearts & the "love bug"! Hope it inspires you for Valentine's Day!

Are you having fun with all your new Elzybells?? :)

Today is the DAY!!

2008-01-18T08:46:00.000-08:00

Head on over to the Elzybells blog & have fun shopping! Don't forget to add all the extra goodies like note cards, twinkle stickers & maybe some COPIC markers...you deserve it! (Such an enabler! :) )

Crazy quick!

2008-01-17T12:16:00.000-08:00

First-how sweet is she? :) Such a great image for ANY gift giving event! OK, I made & Photoshopped this card in about 20 minutes!! LOVE that-so easy. Can we discuss the love I have for A Muse 4bar note cards? Seriously-I can't get enough of them. I HIGHLY recommend adding some to your Elzybell order tomorrow!! Tomorrow!!! :)

I think this is my favorite...

2008-01-16T12:07:00.000-08:00

image from the new release. It's just so versatile: friendship, birthday, thank you, sympathy, thinking of you, mother's day...the list is long! :) I tried to keep this one really simple- I just used a little sparkle gelly pen to highlight the flowers & her accessories & called it good. I think I might add some ribbon on the side-but I do like the colors.

I would FOR SURE add this one to your (long) list of Elzybells to purchase-can you hardly wait?!?

Froggy :)

2008-01-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

I loved this stamp the MOMENT I saw it & I knew the "pucker up" sentiment from the Holiday release would work perfectly! Again, another really simple & easy card to make-it wouldn't take too long to whip a bunch of these out. How cute for Valentine's Day!

Hope you're still having fun looking at all the new Elzys-are you purchasing all that you've seen so far? :) Don't forget to head to the Elzybell NA blog on Friday to buy buy buy! :)

They're Here!!!

2008-01-14T08:39:00.000-08:00

Ok...this release of Elybells is TOO CUTE! I love this little girl-simple & sweet. This card would be so easy to duplicate for a note card set, I think it's a really great card to have for any occasion.

Hope you're enjoying seeing all the sneaks...come back tomorrow for another! :)

3 days 'til sneaks!

2008-01-11T10:28:00.000-08:00

Can you hardly wait for the NEW Elzybells? Believe me when I tell you that they are the CUTEST!! Don't forget to check out the designer's blogs (including mine!) on the 14th for the start of sneaks & head to the Elzybell's blog on the 18th to purchase your little heart out!

Such fun on the way!

So my favorite color is orange...

2008-01-08T17:03:00.000-08:00

which you would normally NEVER know by looking at my cards. I would say 85% of the time I am using (or wanting to use) some shade of green...& then I add blue. I have to TELL myself, branch out-no green or blue.

I didn't listen on this card. :)

I actually like how this turned out. Juggling penguin is really cute-I've used him before & used Liquid Applique for the snowballs, but this time I tried (for the 1st time ever) flocking. I mixed it with a little glitter, which looks good in real life, but is hard to see in the photo.

At least his feet & nose are orange...I'm trying. :)

Still using Christmas stamps! :)

2008-01-04T21:48:00.000-08:00

I'm not normally one who is able to "see" all the different ways a stamp can be used, it's a skill I'd love to get better at. However, when I realized that this little girl was PERFECT for a birthday card with all those gifts, I just omitted the Christmas tree that was riding on the back of the sled & poof - instant "new" stamp! So great for a winter birthday.

Small plug

2008-01-02T21:34:00.000-08:00

http://www.foxsearchlight.com/juno/

I saw Juno yesterday...& I loved it. Then today, I'm realizing I loved it more than originally thought. I can't get it out of my head & I want it to be on DVD so I can have it for my very own & learn all the hilarious lines. It just made me happy. :)

'nuff said, homeskillet. :)

I hear

2008-01-02T11:54:00.000-08:00

there might be some snow in our future! That usually means the weather forecasters have jinxed themselves by saying it-but I'm still keeping my fingers crossed for some white stuff in the next week or so.

Even without the snow, it's clearly still wintertime, so I thought this card was appropriate. I really like this sentiment-it worked for the holidays, but still works great for the next month or so.

Hope it's not too cold wherever you are! :)

Time for thank-yous

2007-12-30T13:32:00.000-08:00

Hello! I hope everyone had a great holiday! I'm in the process of taking down decorations today-booooo! My house just looks so much better with the fun stuff for Christmas, it's such a bummer to put it all away.

I thought this card would be perfect for holiday thank you notes. I really love the snowflake, and was intending it to be much darker, but alas, my glitter didn't agree. :) I do like how it turned out in the end, especially all the colors of blue!

Hope everyone has a happy healthy New Year! Have fun celebrating!

Elzy Tag

2007-12-22T15:01:00.000-08:00

I started realizing the other day that soon I will not get to play with my Christmas Elzybells...nuts!! I figured I had better make SOMETHING with them to tied me over until next year...

Lights are by far my favorite part of decorating...I can look at lights on houses for HOURS, so this little girl is right up my alley. Super simple with some Stickles for lights & you're done!

Just a few more days!

2007-12-21T10:37:00.000-08:00

Here's another quick Christmas card. This one was super easy, thank goodness for the Marvy Punches...what did I do without them? :) I think my most favorite part of the card is the sentiment--it is one of my very favorites.

Sweet Holiday Wishes to you!

Can you believe

2007-12-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

it's one week 'til Christmas?!? Where has the month gone? I feel like I just finished decorating...just to take it down in a week! :)

I love Liquid Applique...I never thought I would, but the puffy white of snow, ice cream & Santa's beard makes it the best! My favorite trees are back in this card-it seems I use them in 75% of my designs! And how cute is this house-it reminds me of a super fancy gingerbread house, mmmmmmm gingerbread. :) Now I want a cookie.

'cause he's cute. :)

2007-12-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

This is my puppy Hobart. We think he's the cutest thing ever, so I thought I'd share this little wintery picture of him! Let it snow!

This bird...

2007-12-13T18:52:00.000-08:00

kills me. I thought that tiny bird from A Muse was the be all and end of all cute-and then little Santa bird came along...& I was proven wrong. :)

I kind of wondered if I would ever use the sentiment "to a deer friend"- but it seems pretty perfect for these two little buddies. :)

Enjoy!

Not my best, not my worst.

2007-12-10T12:10:00.000-08:00

Here's a crazy quick one...I really like the sentiment "delivered in a twinkle"- it's great for the holidays but easy to use throughout the year too. Mr. Reindeer's nose is popped up, which is always a fun way to add that little something to your card...however I need a little more practice with those scissors...I was never good at following the lines for cutting. :)

My holiday cards are underway...I'll share a peek of those pretty soon! Have a great day!

SNO*W

2007-12-05T21:49:00.000-08:00

We had some snow...

and then we had some rain...a LOT of it. :) I feel pretty lucky that I'm not one of the many flooded homes or businesses (poor A Muse!) I hope that everyone is drying out & doing well.

This little Elzy girl is quite popular-I've seen here on MANY blogs- & I couldn't believe I JUST got around to using her! I added the A Muse birch tree stamp, again, one of my top 5 favorite stamps of theirs. I extended the trunk to make it longer...I just liked how the girl looked with some tall trees. I love doing the glitter snow...it seems to make it onto 90% of my cards this time of year! :)

Guest Designer!!

2007-12-03T22:43:00.000-08:00

Head on over to the Elzybell's blog & check out Sarah-the fantastic guest designer! Her first card is so clean & sparkly, right up my alley! Leave a comment on one of her posts on the Elzybell's blog for a chance to win a happy prize!

December kick-off!

2007-11-30T17:30:00.000-08:00

I thought this was an appropriate card to "start" the Christmas season. I know I've posted some Christmas cards previously, but it just doesn't seem real until December 1st. I thought about Elena's idea of having a sentiment be the focal point when making this card-but I HAD to put little mouse in there too! Apparently, the trend of popping out a circle image is big for me right now (see previous post). :)

Tis the season...

I heart

2007-11-28T14:27:00.000-08:00

this card!! I'm not one to pat myself on the back, but for some reason, I'm loving this card! :) Do I love penguins-not especially. How about igloos-take 'em or leave 'em. The whole package: colors, glitter, images, saying-LOVE!! It's so happy when what's going on in your head actually works out on paper. :)

Is it simple enough?

2007-11-26T11:49:00.000-08:00

I was inspired by Linda's fabulous SIMPLE card when I sat down to make this one. I'm not sure it's my best work...I think because I wanted to do MORE to the card. Alas, that defeats the whole simple purpose. :)

I think this little Elzybell image is so cute and I love that it's got a sweet saying already tied in. Couldn't make it easier to make a SIMPLE card...

mmmmm stuffing

2007-11-19T10:34:00.000-08:00

Only a few days until turkey day! Hope people aren't too stressed out with preparations...just take the above saying to heart - "don't fear, turkey is near!" The car & the sentiment crack me up - & I got to use my most favorite stamp of the a*muse holiday release....the birch trees! They are so versatile: give them snow on their branches, or stamped in white on dark paper, or with glitter leaves as I've done here. Just used Stickles in orange, red and copper - and instant festive card! Head on over to the a*muse site & get one for yourself...and maybe 5-20 others that you MUST have! :)

Babies, babies, babies!

2007-11-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

Babies are a big part of my life, although I have none of my own. :) It seems a big bulk of my business is baby announcements & baby shower invitations. Right now I'm working on two holiday cards that are also birth announcements-such a great idea!

I think this card is so sweet-& really utilizes the Pretty Little Papers from a*muse. This card would be so easy to duplicate for a boy or even gender neutral...pink, blue, green-it all works!

Dreaming of

2007-11-12T10:40:00.000-08:00

a white Christmas is a HUGE dream where I live...a WET Christmas is more like it. :)

Another little Elzy girl who is cute as can be-I love the little detail of the stripes on her pajamas-adorable!

It's getting cold out...

2007-11-08T10:53:00.000-08:00

but not cold enough to snow. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for snow this year-though I'll probably have to cross my toes too. :) This little Elzybell girl is too cute pulling a sled of goodies-how fun is that? I tried to make the snowflakes in the background pop with some a*muse twinkle stickers, & I really like how it turned out.

Anyone else hoping for snow? :)

Who doesn't love a party?

2007-11-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

It seems that from the November 22 - January 2 there are endless amounts of parties, dinners, gatherings with family & friends. Festive times call for a festive card. :)

I love decorating---the tree, the house, my dog. :) So this image is perfect-decorating a tree with some festive party lights above. What could be better? Is anyone in the mood yet for the holidays? Bring on the eggnog!

And it's over...

2007-11-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

Good bye Halloween...hello Christmas! Actually, I'm not so into starting the season a full month early, but apparently it's the thing to do. I was shopping yesterday and BAM -- Christmas music!! Seriously?

Cards are different...for everyone who makes their holiday cards, we need solid preparation time...so I'm not feeling too bad about sharing Christmas images & ideas. I LOVE this little girl, she is too cute. The Elzybells images are just so fun to color! This card is S I M P L E, which is right up my alley. Just a little scallop punch, 4bar note card & ribbon and you're done!

Has anyone started on their holiday cards??

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!

2007-10-31T09:09:00.001-07:00

This card is perfect for today with all the little ones traveling from house to house...the line of trick or treaters is one of my favorites.

Hope you all have a great day and spooky night! :)

Just 2 more days!!

2007-10-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday. I just love everything about it-the color (orange is my very FAVE color), pumpkins, crisp fall air, cute kiddos in costumes, candy....the list just goes on!!

Here is a REALLY simple card. It probably took a total of 5 minutes to make, which is fantastic. I've had a Xyron machine for almost a whole year, and just now took it out to make this card. FYI-I will NEVER put it away again, I've fallen in love!!! It is the best for glittering up a larger space-I just stuck the purple scallop through the machine, peeled it away to expose the adhesive & dumped the glitter! Easy peasy. :) I added some Diamond Stickles to the inside edges of the ghosts for a little extra sparkle...can you ever have enough?

See you later!