Happy Heart Studio

It's a Patterned Paper Challenge at the Pond!

2012-01-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

Time for another Simon Says Stamp sponsored challenge. This month it's Patterned Paper so go through your stash of paper and have some fun with us at Lily Pad Cards!

That's just what I did with some of my favorite Crate Paper 6x6 papers from the Farmhouse, Random and Portrait sets with an assist from a scrap of yellow gingham from the Girl's Paperie. The star of the show is the charming new Lawn Fawn set, Love n Breakfast.

There's a whole lot of paper-piecing going on with the breakfast tray, each element was stamped and cut out from different paper scraps. A bit glossy accents adds some shine to the egg yolk and the flower vase.

I can't wait to see what you do with patterned paper, I'll be looking for your cards in the challenge gallery at Lily Pad Cards!

I'm so excited about CHA, just a few more days! If you will be there I'd love to meet you, stop by the Lawn Fawn booth on Monday and say hi!

blessings,
nancy
Titus 3: 4-8

InLinkz.com

Lily Pad Cards has a new challenge!

2012-01-20T02:00:00.000-08:00

Apparently the Hero Hostess Blog Hop used up all of my creativity because my mojo has been on an extended walk-about. I hope it returns soon, refreshed and ready to work; I really miss it!

I did manage to wring out some mojo essence to make a card for the new Lily Pad Cards Challenge: Virginia's View. Yes, that Virginia, my friend from the land to the north. Here is the inaugural inspiration photo for this challenge:

Our sponsor for this challenge is Penny Black so I grabbed my favorite paisley background stamp and got to work with some white embossing powder and Distress inks.

I guess I was in a light-hearted mood because this is so different from my usual style (do I really have a usual style? she asked). Anyway, this gave me the perfect excuse to use these Jewelry Box Thickers from American Crafts that I've been hoarding for some time now.

Make sure you stop by Lily Pad Cards to see all the lovelies from the DT and to join us in this brand new inspiration challenge. You just may recognize some new faces....you never know.

blessings,
nancy
Isaiah 26:3

InLinkz.com

Hero Arts Hostess Blog Hop Day 2

2012-01-10T05:30:00.000-08:00

It's my favorite time of the year...Hero Hostess Blog Hop time!! It's so much fun to share this wonderful camaraderie with all of the talented hostesses. This is a group I feel very privileged to be a part of.

Hero Arts will be awarding prizes from randomly drawn comments. For a chance to win, simply comment on ANY of the stops along the hop on ANY day, including each day’s starting post at the Hero Club Blog. The more comments you leave, the better your chance of winning!
If you find a broken link, you'll find a master list of the hop links at the Hero Club Blog. Also, please report broken links to Tami.

You should have arrived here from Living the Dream, my sweet friend, Judy's blog. I hope you left her lots of comment love!

I just love everything in the new 2012 Hero Arts Catalog...my wishlist is a mile long! I love anything text and collage-y so I used that theme to make some Thank You cards. Check out the inlinkz links at the end of this post for all the products I used.

This card uses some Sticky back canvas and an old product in my stash called Shimmering Pearls. They work like Twinkling H2Os. Hero Arts stamps used: Newspaper Background and Greeting Cling set.

Next I tilted the butterfly collage stamp vertically and got all inky:

I used Distress inks to watercolor the butterfly, add splatters and distress the edges of the panel. The background is the Newspaper Eiffel Tower...I love this stamp! I left the background as is so the distressed panel would take center stage.

This time I stamped the Butterfly Greeting image on a patterned paper die cut label:

I stamped the Newspaper Background with Stormy Sky Distress ink on white cs then over-stamped the butterfly portion of the stamp with brown ink. I cut out just the wings and paper-pieced them to the panel. To finish the panel I added some more inky splatters and white dots with a gel pen. I also outlined the label with the white pen. The background is an old favorite from Hero Arts, Old Letter Writing.

The final card features the Newspaper Background and a great frame and sentiment clear set called Sending You Love:

I stamped the Newspaper Background once near the top of the panel using Stormy Sky Distress ink and again on the bottom with Art Print Brown ink. The sentiment frame was stamped with Stormy Sky, cut out and hole punched. The flourishes are from the Hero Arts/Sizzix Floral Stamp and Die set. A few gems and it's done.

InLinkz.com

Now I'm sending you off on your blog hopping way to see the lovely Robin. Have fun and don't forget to comment to win some fabulous Hero Arts goodies!

blessings,
nancy
psalm 16:11

Kathy's Lily Pad Palette Challenge

2012-01-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad to be back in the challenge mode for Lily Pad Cards! I love the color combos that Kathy has given us, there are two different palettes and you can choose which one you'd like to use (or maybe try both).

Our sponsor for this challenge is Our Craft Lounge; I used their Vintage Traveler stamp set.

To get those rich saturated colors I used Ranger alcohol inks in Wild Plum and Stream. I also used Hero Hues Chalk ink in Cerulean. The background is a page from a vintage French book. I added a sentiment in French from an older Hero Arts set called "Love Many Ways".

Here are the 2 Color Palettes for this challenge:

Be sure to visit the Lily Pad Cards blog to see all the inspiration from the Design Team. Can't wait to see what you all do with these colors.

blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Birthday Card Inspired by Joy!

2012-01-04T10:27:00.000-08:00

When I saw THIS fabulous card by Joy Taylor I warned her that I would be CASE-ing it. I loved everything about her original and since I needed a birthday card for my boss, it proved to be the perfect inspiration. Thanks, Joy!

I switched out the typewriter to phones from Hero Arts Just Saying Hi clear set. The greeting is from my favorite Essential Messages set. La Letter and Old Letter Writing play supporting roles on the tag and background.
The phones are significant on this card because although I've worked for my attorney boss for a year I've been reluctant to answer the phones, preferring to stick to my comfort zone of accounting and billing. I'm branching out this year and will be learning more duties of a legal secretary, should be interesting.

I'm hoping to start my new "thought for the week" feature in the next few weeks. I have been wanting to combine my interest in collage with my desire to share God's Word. Each week I plan to share a new art piece along with a verse or thought for the week. I'm hoping to include some of my insights throughout the week too.

New year, new challenges. Still working on the new look for my blog (attempting to design and implement a new banner and buttons myself) but with working more hours and managing hubby's new business, time for projects is at a premium. It's all good and it will all get done, eventually.

blessings,
nancy

Cue the Highlight Reel....

2011-12-31T00:31:00.000-08:00

As one who always loves to start fresh, I love nothing more than a fresh new year. Bringing out that new calendar, looking forward to new challenges and adventures (I do my best to overlook the aging process along the way).
A couple of bloggers that I like to follow did their 2011 round up of their favorite cards and they invited others to do the same. I thought it would be fun to join Kath and Lynnette and close the year with a mini retrospective of my own card designs that I'm pretty pleased with; Make sure to check out their blogs, you'll find some incredible inspiration.
I'm also sharing some of the highlights of the past year; got any guesses what my best highlight is? Be patient, we'll get there....

Here are my favorite cards of 2011:

January was all Hero Arts...made 2 of these for the Hero Hostess Blog Hop.

Hero Arts Blooming Heart (it was a winner), Graphic45 vintage and a little announcement with Lawn Fawn

Apparently I was feeling very girly in March, lots of flowers and fluff!

Another happy announcement with Lawn Fawn, Ben's 24th birthday

and a good reminder with Unity Stamps for a Lily Pad Cards Card Chain Challenge.

Fun resist technique, chic Mimi and a special birthday card for my Mom-in-law

Water color class sample, fun with Penny Black,

and 70s inspired Father's Day card for my honey, he drove an orange bug with blue denim upholstery.

A bit of sunshine, my Inspired by Jill card and a Tickled Pink image for Lily Pad Cards.

Channeling some more sunshine; kid approved birthday card, colorful Lawn Fawn bicycle

and a special card for a special friend.

I created an indoor scene and a couple of mini inchie cards for a class.

More Lawn Fawn to celebrate my in-laws 61st anniversary,

and 2 different looks with the Hero Arts Large Solid Flower.

Lawn Fawn Thanksgiving and a winning Hero Arts wooden tag!

Two of my favorite Christmas cards and a special ornament tag.

I had a few crafty highlights this year:

I had a blast at CHA last January, meeting with talented friends and helping out in the Lawn Fawn booth. The best was meeting Pia and Sanne who traveled all the way from Denmark. Linda and I had a wonderful time getting to know these lovely women. We laughed a lot too, they know how to have a good time!

I love teaching classes at Stamp Fever! I've met the most wonderful friends and it keeps me on my toes creatively too!

Ivy (ishouldbesleepingbut...) and I had a wonderful time crafting with Kelly Marie Alvarez, Mrs. Lawn Fawn herself, as we made samples for store displays. That is the spectacular card design by Vicky; you can find the video for this card HERE. The photo on the bottom right side shows all the storks and bundles I stamped, colored and cut out. Fussy cutting extravaganza!

And of course I can't forget all the fun and creativity, not to mention crafty friendship with the talented ladies at Lily Pad Cards. I'm still hoping to meet them all in person some day, that will be one fabulous photo-op! So far the only one I've met (Pia), lives the furthest away.

Please stop by and visit them: Lin, Deborah, Vicky, Pia, Latrice and Kathy.

And now we've reached my number ONE highlight of 2011.....

His eyes really are that blue!

Thanks for sticking with me on this long post. I thought I would leave you with some of my favorite inspiration from the past year. I found myself spending lots of time enjoying the beautiful work of these talented card makers:

Franziska: I love everything she makes but her village scenes are really special! Her Flicker and blog.

Jacqueline: She inspires my faith and my creativity! Her Flickr and blog.

Anette: Her work is always interesting and always gorgeous! Her Flickr and blog.

~I'm considering some changes here in my little corner of the blog world; working on some ideas.

Please bear with me if my blogging becomes a bit spotty. ~

I'm sending love and blessings to all my blogging buddies, praying that 2012 will be good to you all!

No matter what happens, know that God is good and He longs to share His love with us!

blessings,

nancy

It's Been A While Since I Did a Lily Pad Post...

2011-12-30T03:30:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has recovered from the holiday celebrations and that you are ready for a fun Lily Pad Cards challenge. It's a Simon Says Stamp Sponsored challenge to use Chipboard.

Well I didn't need any more incentive than that. I've been hoarding the Cosmo Cricket Wanted chipboard collection and I needed a birthday card for my son. Boys love cowboys, even 28 year-old boys who are new dads love cowboys! For some reason I always do a theme for Andy's birthday cards, last year I made him a pirate card. He's a wonderful son and he indulges my creative silliness.

This card went together really quickly with a minimum of stamping. Just some Lawn Fawn Teeny Tiny Backdrops Stars on the denim look paper. The sentiment is computer generated using free fonts: Cast Iron and HorseshoesandLemonade. The chipboard pieces do all the "heavy-lifting" on this card, so very easy!

Thanks for your visit, don't forget to stop by Lily Pad Cards for more inspiration from the Design Team.

And please visit here tomorrow! I'll have my year-end wrap up, a sort of bloggy highlight reel. See you then.

blessings,
nancy

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T14:16:00.000-08:00

I just finished up the last of my Christmas cards, nothing like waiting till the last minute!

This one is totally imperfect but I'm embracing the imperfection because it makes me smile!

Lawn Fawn Sally's ABCs and Bows and Holly.

This card combines a Memory Box die, Hero Arts Merry Background stamp, Hero Arts lights and a Lawn Fawn sentiment from Bows and Holly. Lots of different Stickles make the Christmas lights sparkle.

I've got some cookies to bake and a Sweet Potato Souffle to put together for tomorrow, then we are off to visit with friends tonight. Tomorrow is the celebration with Al's family. May your Christmas be blessed with love, laughter and all the joy your hearts can hold.

The Christmas Story

Luke 2:8-20

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep.

Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them,

and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them.

They were terrified, but the angel reassured them.

"Don't be afraid!" he said.

"I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.

The Savior- yes the Messiah, the Lord- has been born today

in Bethlehem, the city of David!

And you will recognize Him by this sign:

You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-

the armies of heaven-praising God and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest heaven,

and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."

When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other,

"Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this thing that has happened,

which the Lord has told us about."

They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph.

And there was the baby, lying in the manger.

After seeing Him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened

and what the angel had said to them about this Child.

All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished,

but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often.

The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God

for all they had heard and seen.

It was just as the angel had told them.

Christmas Blessings,

nancy

Christmas Ornament Tags

2011-12-23T12:46:00.000-08:00

I love the challenge of making gifts. I try to make something different each year. This year I put the Spellbinders Heirloom Ornaments Nestabilities to use to make ornament tags. I added a layer of chipboard to make them sturdy enough to hang on the tree and hopefully last for many Christmases to come.

As soon as I saw the Lawn Fawn set Pa-Rum-Pa-Pum-Pum, I knew I would use it for Uriah's "Baby's First Christmas" ornament. I've entered this tag in the Lawnscaping Challenge.

It's a winner! A Top 3 Mow it All, I'm so thrilled!

I die cut the ornament shape 3 times: one Desert Storm cs, one chipboard and one red polka dot patterned paper for the back. (On the back I added the same Lawn Fawn banner with the year stamped with "Sally's ABCs). For the background I stamped Hero Arts Large Canvas Stripe with Versamark and white embossed on the Neenah Desert Storm cardstock ornament. I glued the 3 layers of the ornament using Glossy Accents with the chipboard layer inside.
I used an old Christmas Tree punch to punch out 6 trees from kraft cs. The letters are "Sally's ABCs" stamped with Jenni Bowlin Cough Syrup ink. I punched a small hole in the top of each letter to thread my red Baker's Twine through and knotted each end. I attached the letters with foam adhesive.
I stamped the Teddy Bear, Train and Rocking Horse from Pa-Rum-Pa-Pum-Pum on Neenah Tiara White cs and colored with Copics. I cut them out along with the banner. 1st Christmas is stamped with Lawn Fawn "Smitty's ABCs". These pieces were added with foam adhesive as well.
Next I stamped the Teddy Bear and Rocking Horse on Clear Shrink Plastic with permanent black ink and gave the ink time to set. I carefully added color with Copics since I didn't use Stazon ink the Copics wanted to remove the black outline. I cut them out, punched a hole to hang them from and shrunk them using my heat tool. I strung the little charms with gold cord and hung them from more gold cord. The ribbon was the finishing touch.

Next I made an ornament for Uriah's parents, my son Andy and daughter-in-love Kellie. We had family photos taken by the giant Christmas tree at Fashion Island in Newport Beach so I used one for their ornament.

This one is gold embossed on purple cs with the Hero Arts Lace Background. I also colored in an ornament cap with a Versamark pen to gold emboss. I added an acetate layer over the photo and under the embossed layer to protect the photo.

From my family to yours...wishing you all a most blessed Christmas

and a new year filled with love and laughter!

Christmas Blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

2 Tags

2011-12-22T12:44:00.000-08:00

It's a blustery cold day here in the OC today. Digby is staying close to my side and Tia is hiding under the blankets on my bed, she hates wind. I thought I would stay inside and get a little stamping done.

Since it has been a very lean year for us, Al and I had decided not to exchange gifts this year. Then I found out I had a few points to redeem with my Amazon account. I had enough to get Al what he's been wanting, a little something for Ben and even something that had been in my wishlist for a while. The best part is that it will be delivered tomorrow, just in time to wrap. Unfortunately there is no tree to put them under but they will look nice on the mantel.

So since I have a couple more gifts I will need a couple of tags. And to get a jump start on my goal to enter more challenges in 2012 I'm entering these in the Play Date Cafe Challenge 112. Here's the lovely traditional Christmas colors for the challenge:

This first tag is for Al. I had the die cut tree already added to the patterned paper just waiting for inspiration.

The sentiments are from Lawn Fawn's Bows and Holly set. All the paper was found at Stamp Fever and I repurposed the ribbon. I'm also entering the tags in the Lawnscaping Challenge #24 Texture.

This tag will go on Ben's gift:

I used every stamp that was sitting on my work desk for this tag. The background has Hero Arts Envelope Pattern and Silent Night (a really old stamp). And then I used these Lawn Fawn sets: Critters in the Forest (tree); Bows and Holly (holly and berries); Ornate Ornaments (red ornaments on tree and stars in background) Pa-Rum-Pa-Pum-Pum (sentiment). The tree is paper pieced and popped up to give is some dimension and texture. After I stamped the ornaments I colored them with the Cadmium Red copic marker, then I inked the Envelope Pattern with Versamark and over-stamped to give them a bit of texture. I cut them out and added silver to the tops with a PITT Artist Pen by Faber-Castell. The white accents are done with a Sakura white gel pen.

So here is my Amazon order, can you guess who gets what?

That's all for today, I have some more ornaments to share tomorrow so I hope you will check back.

blessings,

nancy

Inspired by Lin!

2011-12-17T11:49:00.000-08:00

The lovely Lin Brandyberry has been one of my creative muses for many years now. Her style is so feminine, soft and lovely. Her use of color is extraordinary. I quite literally gasp when I see her cards. So when I saw THIS amazing bit of cardmaking genius, using an older Stampendous stamp that I own, I had to try to make it my own.

Here are my vintage Stampendous Christmas stamps:

"His Name Tree" from 2001 and "Jesus is the Reason for the Season" from 1987 (inside sentiment).

Where Lin's design is soft and pink and tied with a perfect bow, I went with saturated color, bright gems and lots of Perfect Pearls mist. After white embossing the image on white cs, I applied Fired Brick Distress ink directly to the paper and used a cloth remove the excess ink from the embossed image. After a thorough spritzing with the mist and time to dry the panel was adhered to a white card base before adding the gems.

The color of this card is also inspired by THIS video by Pastor Greg Laurie titled "Red is the Color of Christmas". Let me know what you think.

Christmas Blessings,

nancy

It's Hero Arts Catalog Party Time at Stamp Fever...

2011-12-16T10:23:00.000-08:00

Just a really quick post today as I'm packaging up the Make-n-Takes for the festivities at Stamp Fever. There will be photos to follow of the Hero Arts Catalog Party fun.

I wanted to share a couple more ornament designs using the Winter Town stamp by Hero Arts.

This uses Cosmo Cricket Mitten Weather paper and a really ancient Hero Arts background stamp. I stamped Winter Town with Iced Spruce Distress ink. This card is winging it's way to a far away place, I'm hoping it arrives in time!

This next ornament tag has arrived at it's destination in France....

The ornament is the Starburst Lace stamp which is gold embossed. I stamped Winter Town with Spice Tin ink by Jenni Bowlin. To give it that wind swept look, after inking the stamp I use the ink pad to swipe across the stamp.

It's a blustery cold day in the OC, but I'm looking forward to some fun with my crafty friends at Stamp Fever! If you are in the area I hope you will drop in and join us! You can find all the party details HERE.

blessings,
nancy

A Rustic Christmas Card Design

2011-12-15T15:24:00.000-08:00

I just can't put the Winter Town stamp away, it's sure been a favorite of mine and one I've reached for a lot as I've been making Christmas cards this year.
I love the rustic look of this card, and I'm pretty happy with how it turned out...

I liked this one so much that I made a few more (and it's very rare for me to make more than one of any card)

These were made with leftover pieces from my last card class, how thrifty am I? The patterned paper is Graphic45 Christmas Past from last year. I decided to do something totally different by using red Stickles on the star, normally I would reach for silver or gold but doesn't the red look really good on that paper? (Is it just me?) That wonderful sentiment is from an old set by Cornish Heritage Farm. I love the font and it looks like it was made for the Winter Town!

I'll be back soon with some more of my ornament tags and cards. See you then!
blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Just a little bit of Christmas crafting to share

2011-12-14T16:57:00.000-08:00

I was able to get a few things out in the mail and I've heard that this ornament/tag has reached it's destination so I thought I'd share it.

blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

New Hero Arts!

2011-12-13T10:02:00.000-08:00

I've been keeping busy on projects for the Hero Arts Catalog Debut Party at Stamp Fever this weekend.

Here's a couple cards I made with the Style is Eternal HA/Sizzix Die Cut and Stamp Set:

This set is 20% off at Stamp Fever this weekend!

I love not having to do all that fussy cutting! This is such a fun set too. I did some paper piecing with Echo Park Country Drive paper on the pink card. The pink dress was stamped by first inking the stamp with Versamark then inking with Jenni Bowlin Chewing Gum ink and then it was clear embossed before I cut it out (yep, just a smidge of the fussy cutting). I used a Copic E00 marker for the skin and RV21 to color the headband. The green card has the HA Daisy Outline for the background and La Letter over-stamped to give some French flair.

I'll be back with some more Christmas cards and tags soon!
blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Uriah's November Page- Digi Hybrid Scrapbooking

2011-12-11T15:55:00.001-08:00

I can't believe this is my first post in December! Where does the time go? No really where does it go?
I've been busy putting together Make n Takes for the Hero Arts Catalog Party at Stamp Fever, so much fun playing with brand new stamps and supplies! The partying happens Friday at 4:30-7:30 and Saturday 10-2.

Today is my son Andy's 28th birthday and I'll be sharing his birthday card later in the month but I wanted to share the photo page I made for Uriah.

I used digital scrapbooking kits and papers and printed the page on Kodak Premium Picture High Gloss paper. Then I added the little Lawn Fawn turkey that I colored with Copics and popped up with foam adhesive.

I'm off to celebrate Andy's birthday with dinner out and birthday pudding!

blessings,
nancy

Buttons!

2011-11-25T01:00:00.000-08:00

This month Lily Pad Cards is all about BUTTONS! This challenge, sponsored by Simon Says Stamp is all about using up those hoarded buttons, putting them to gorgeous use, and admiring your handiwork! Check out the challenge and the beautiful cards by the DT at Lily Pad Cards and join in the fun!

Here's my card using some of my favorite stamps from Lawn Fawn and Hero Arts:

I hope all my friends in the US are enjoying a relaxing Thanksgiving holiday weekend. I tend to avoid shopping as if my life depends on it so I'm visiting with friends and family and looking forward to a home-made Christmas.

blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Another Tag Design

2011-11-21T10:42:00.001-08:00

My hubby cut lots of tag shapes out of wood to use for my next stamping class. Then I did some experimenting to come up with a workable design for a class to do. I posted the class tag on the previous post.

This is a tag I'll use on a gift, it turned out exactly as I hoped and imagined.

My tag is a winner at Hero Arts!!

For this tag, I stained both sides of the wood tag with Walnut Stain Distress Stain. I love the deep rich color! The sentiment was gold embossed directly onto the tag. Then the tree was stamped with Jenni Bowlin Seed Packet ink onto white cs and cut out. I distressed it with Vintage Photo. To embellish the tree I strung mini red buttons onto gold cording and attached them to the tree with glue dots. Tiny gold gems then finished the decoration. I added a gold cord so this can be used as a tree ornament after it serves as a gift tag.
I found the gold cord, red mini buttons and ribbon at Stamp Fever.

Thanks for your visit, please leave a comment so I know you were here.
blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Another Class at Stamp Fever

2011-11-20T20:21:00.001-08:00

I've finished the 4th and final session of my second Stamping Basics series at Stamp Fever and to celebrate I'm teaching another class!! I will teach on Tuesday November 29 and Thursday December 1, both classes are at 6pm. The cost is $15.00 for 2 cards and a special Wood Tag/Ornament. Call Linda at Stamp Fever to reserve your spot, 714 974-3552.

Here's the samples:

This is a window style card that doubles as a holiday decoration! It uses Hero Arts "Holiday Cheer" Stamps and Dies set. Additional stamping with "Large Canvas Stripes". Inks used: Festive Berries, Stormy Sky Distress ink; Memories ArtPrint Brown. There will be a slight alteration, we will use Versamark Watermark Ink for the Canvas Stripe instead of the white ink. Red Stickles add some sparkle.

This card is a rustic style using my favorite "Starry Night" cling stamp. It also features "Music Background" and a sentiment from Hero Arts; the banner is from the Lawn Fawn "Bannerific" set. Inks used: Chipped Sapphire, Antique Linen, Vintage Photo Distress Ink; Versamark Watermark ink. Just a bit of gold Stickles on the star.

This is a wood tag that will make a nice gift ornament. It features a Perfect Pearls background (it's very sparkly, even though the photo doesn't do it justice). I used "Holly Flourish Background" and "Holly Flourish Border" from Hero Arts. Distress Inks- Aged Mahogany, Scattered Straw. Versamark Watermark ink with Forever Red Perfect Pearls.

I hope you will sign up for this class, I'd love to spend some quality stamping time with you! The Tuesday class has openings, the Thursday class is almost filled so don't wait too long to sign up.

blessings,
nancy

It's Sketch Time at the Lily Pad

2011-11-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

The new sketch challenge at Lily Pad Cards is sponsored by The Craft's Meow.

I love the fun and retro look of The Merry Best set. I combined it with a stamp from Simply Delightful.

Here's the sketch:

Make sure you visit Lily Pad Cards to see the wonderful work by the design team. They continually amaze me with their creativity.

Watch this space for the debut of the new format for my Thought for the Day. It's on hiatus while I work on some ideas which I hope to have in place in January. Thanks for understanding.

blessings,
nancy

Cards for Class

2011-11-16T13:17:00.001-08:00

So I finally decided on the cards for my class on Saturday (nothing like waiting till the last minute). Since everyone told me to use the village card I did just that, only I modified it so the class participants can decorate the tree however they like. I'll be providing various Stickles, gems, twine etc so everyone will have a one-of-a kind original. Lots of great Hero Arts stamps and Basic Grey Nordic Holiday papers.

I went CAS with the second card using Lawn Fawn Frosties and a sentiment from Bows and Holly.

I used the new Distress ink Evergreen Bough to stamp the snowflakes and to color the ornament.

Time to get my kits ready....

blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Cheerful Reindeer Card

2011-11-10T10:54:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone,

I've been busy fighting a bout of creative block....I have lots of projects I need to get done for Stamp Fever and I'm on inspiration overload. I can't seem to get my focus on just one thing as there is way too much brilliance out there in blog-land.

I did finish this card that I was thinking I might use as inspiration for my next class. It will need some refinement and streamlining unless I want the class to be an over-nighter. It took me a ridiculously long time to complete this card, I started it over a week ago and kept coming back to it every time I had an idea for how to finish it. The only element that stayed the same is the white canvas stripes on kraft cardstock. I love that combo!

The engineering of this design was what took so long since the front of the card is open and everything is seen from the inside.

I die cut the reindeer for the inside reversed using the piece I cut from stamped kraft cs cover. That way the stripes are on the inside and the back side of the reindeer on the card front is covered.

I like how the snowflakes and sentiment can twirl on the string as the card stands open.

Here's another card that I initially made for my class but decided against using:

It's hard to see in the photo but this card is sparkly with glitter and Stickles.

(Just a note: I am revamping my Thought for the Day feature and it will return in a new and hopefully improved form in the future.)

blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Sweater Weather

2011-11-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

Cooler weather means a new sweater for Tia! I found a great Etsy shop with the most adorable sweaters for dogs. It's called Dog on Cozy. The designs are fun, the prices are excellent and they are made really well. I will definitely be shopping for more Tia couture there in the future. You can find Dog on Cozy HERE.

Now let's see my little princess modeling her new sweater:

She loves wearing sweaters and she especially loves this one. It's very festive and bright.

blessings,
nancy

Kathy's Lily Pad Palette for November

2011-11-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

Lily Pad Cards has teamed up with Clear Dollar Stamps to bring you another fabulous color challenge:

I made another digital hybrid card using Clear Dollar Stamps Pumpkin Pie Digi Set. I loved that they had a pre-colored image in the set. As you are all well aware my coloring skills leave a lot to be desired so having the option to use a beautiful image that's ready to go totally appealed to me. It also allowed me to make a really quick card.

The background is made up of digital papers (a free set at Two Peas; see links below) that were formatted and sized in Publisher. Then I layered the Pumpkin pie digi image and the sentiment on top before printing . A punched card stock border, rustic jute twine, a button and vellum die cut complete the card.

I also used this set to design my 2011 Thanksgiving Place cards. I created them on two 8.5 x 11 sheets that I will print out and layer onto card stock for the place cards.

This is my working design and it will most likely change many times before I'm happy enough with it to print out and assemble the place cards.

I had to make a card for my honey...my very own Pie Man (he loves pie and bakes them often).

I hope you join in the color challenge fun at Lily Pad Cards; there is always a great prize and so much inspiration in the gallery. Check out what the Design Team has created with this wonderful Fall color palette.

~ Philippians 4:8 ~

Fix your thoughts on what is true,

and honorable, and right, and pure,

and lovely, and admirable.

Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Uriah- October 2011

2011-11-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

I'm taking Latrice's online class, Handmade Holidays and today she had a scrapbook sketch for inspiration. Now everyone knows I'm not a scrapbook-er but I gave it a shot anyway.

As per my usual, I didn't follow the sketch very closely and I didn't use a holiday theme, but it did give me my jumping off point for this 8x8 page. And what better subject than my adorable two month old grandson, Uriah!

I used a bunch of {ancient} paper and stickers/embellishments from my stash; K&Company, Cosmo Cricket, Heidi Grace. It was about time I found a use for these cute little doodads. This is really a primitive page by today's scrapbook standards but it's a start. Who knows, I just may make a few more now that I will be taking lots of photos of favorite my subject!

I just love the large photo of our little guy with his daddy (my not-so-little guy). Uriah has wonderful parents, he's one blessed little boy.

~Philippians 1:6 ~

I am certain that God, who began the good work within you,

will continue His work until it is finally finished

on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

blessings,

nancy

Sharing Some Storage Solutions

2011-10-30T17:56:00.000-07:00

Before this nasty virus caught up with me (yes, still sick but feeling better every day), I did a little revamping in the stamping studio. I had clear stamps and cling stamps and markers everywhere. My paper cutter and scoring board were fighting for real estate with the Cuttlebug and all of the die-cutting accessories.

It was a mess and not a creative one.

First, my talented hubby came to my rescue with a solution to the paper cutting and scoring dilemma. He used some heavy duty shelf/drawer guides to add a large pull out shelf right below my work space.

It sits at the perfect height, just below my counter-height work area, pulls out when I need it and disappears out of sight when not in use.

I love this shelf, it has revolutionized my crafting time and freed up space on my counter for my Cuttlebug.

Command Central

Next I tackled the stamp storage issue. I used to keep my clear stamps in a binder, but I hated having to flip through, wrestle them out and put them back. Who has time for that? I wanted them on my desk and easily accessible. My solution was fabric covered boxes and labeled dividers. I put the Hero Arts sets in one by themselves as I have the most of these.

Hero Arts Clear Stamp Storage Box

I trim the cards that back the acetate folder so it fits in the box, but I keep it attached to retain the name of the set. The co-branded sets are in the front of the box.

For my Hero Arts cling stamps I used a standard photo box and made dividers: Large Background, Small Background, Silhouette, Flowers, Sets etc. I try to keep them in their original packaging that I modify to make them easier to remove. Some are in zip top plastic bags but it's not the best. This box lives on a shelf to the left of my work area, within reach when I'm working.

Hero Arts Cling Stamp Storage Box

I used another box for Lawn Fawn stamps, my rapidly growing collection, with dividers specific to these sets. My most used sets from other companies are stored here as well.

Lawn Fawn Stamp Set storage box: I made dividers that relate to the Lawn Fawn stamp categories.

These boxes make it so easy to flip through the sets and find exactly what I'm looking for. How handy!

There are dividers for other frequently used stamp companies: The Craft's Meow, Sweet Stamp Shop, Flourishes etc.

I also reworked my Copic Marker storage. The Art Supply Warehouse had a sale on Copics and I added to my stash. Since they no longer fit in the 3 drawers I had been using, I moved them to my other storage drawer units, separated by color family.

Copics were kept in the green drawers. I had them separated by Warm, Cool and Neutral. This worked when my collection was still pretty limited but the expanded storage is wonderful now that I have a few more.

This works much better, it's much easier to see what I have now too. On top of the drawer units are my buckets of embossing powder. The tags identify the color. Above that are my button and flower jars, an eclectic collection of repurposed jars.

The best part of this organization blitz is that I didn't spend any money, I reused what I had. Al even used materials he had in the garage for the shelf; and from my first plea for help to done project took under 2 hours. (Sorry, ladies, I'm keeping him.) I hope some of these solutions help you to get your supplies and tools organized in time for your holiday crafting.

~ Lamentations 3:22-24 ~

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!

His mercies never cease.

Great is His faithfulness;

His mercies begin afresh each morning.

I say to myself, "The Lord is my inheritance;

therefore, I will hope in Him!"

blessings,

nancy

It's Another Lily Pad Technique Challenge!

2011-10-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

It's all about Texture at Lily Pad Cards for a challenge sponsored by Simon Says Stamp.

When I think of texture, I think of layers. Layers of color, layers of heat-embossed stamping, layers of paper and embellishments. Texture can also be added with embossing folders; I did consider that but nothing I had on hand was "floating my boat". So I got out some fun stamp sets that don't get used often enough, I rummaged through my stash for chipboard shapes to use as masks and lots of colorful sprays. Check out the Inlinkz collection at the end of this post for all the products used on this card.

The only product that isn't still available (at least I couldn't find it online) is the frame. It's from a K&Company Photo Mat pad of embossed frames.

Make sure to hop on over to the Lily Pad Cards blog to see all the fabulous projects by the design team, as always they are amazing!

I'm keeping this post short and sweet as I'm still fighting what feels like the plague. The worst part is that it's keeping me from my adorable grandson and that's almost unbearable. Hubby and son have had it too, at least we've had company in our misery.

~ Hebrews 13:7 ~

Remember your leaders who taught you the Word of God.

Think of all the good that has come from their lives,

and follow the example of their faith.

I truly appreciate the godly lives and Bible teaching of these faithful men: Pastor Vic Elfstrum, Pastor Bob Kopeny, Pastor Bruce Sonnenberg, Pastor Chuck Smith and Pastor Greg Laurie. My life as a Christian has been enriched and set on the right course because they were faithful in sharing the Gospel and overseeing their flocks without compromise.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Simon Says Stamp Challenge

2011-10-26T01:06:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my Designer in the Spotlight month at Simon Says Stamp is over already. I've had fun challenging myself to do different things and use new products. I'm also very grateful to have had this opportunity; sending my thanks to all the wonderful people at Simon Says Stamp, their talented design team members and especially Joy, Lorraine and Heidi. I've had a blast!

Now on to the card.....

I wanted to combine beachy with a subway sign style. I wanted the blue background to look like weathered white-washed beadboard. I purposely left it a bit "undone" to have that rustic beach cottage look. I love this fun stamp set by Studio Calico for Hero Arts. It's so simple and sweet, a bit 60s retro and so charming.

Now don't forget to visit the Simon Says Stamp Challenge blog to see all the Studio Calico wonderful-ness from the design team. Join in the fun for your chance to win.

~ Daniel 2:20-21 ~

"Praise the name of God forever and ever,

for He has all wisdom and power.

He controls the course of world events;

He removes kings and sets up other kings.

He gives wisdom to the wise

and knowledge to the scholars."

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Paper Pieced Anniversary Card

2011-10-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

My mom and pops in-law just celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. They are remarkable people who have lived and laughed and loved very well. I am grateful to them for raising their son to be my wonderful, loving husband.

I wanted to make a sweet light-hearted card for them. Mom has had a series of strokes that have diminished her eye-sight so I used lots of contrasting colors and some paper-piecing to add some texture. Lawn Fawn stamps provided the perfect images, full of whimsy. The strip on the bottom is a wink to my father-in-law's Colorado farming roots.

I'm adding this to the current Lawnscaping Challenge #20- Paper Piecing.

~ Proverbs 18:22 ~

The man who finds a wife finds a treasure,

and he receives favor from the Lord.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Lily Pad Cards Sketch Challenge

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Lily Pad Cards has a new Sketch challenge and I got to break out my Nina B. designed stamps to make a Christmas-y gift tag.

Here's the Sketch.....

......which I followed very loosely, to make this......

So sorry for the short post today...I've been sick all week and I can't wait to crawl back into bed.

~ Philippians 4:4-5 ~

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again -rejoice!

Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do.

Remember, the Lord is coming soon.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Quick Card Fun

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Truly a very quick card using a sweet Lawn Fawn sentiment and Basic Grey Sweet Threads paper and stickers.

The hearts are cut with the My Favorite Things "Hearts a Plenty die.

~ Matthew 5:11-12 ~

God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you

and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are Jesus' followers.

Be happy about it!

Be very glad!

For a great reward awaits you in heaven.

blessings,

nancy

The Little Mother Goose

2011-10-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

I'm three fourths of the way through my stint as Guest Designer at Simon Says Stamp. Still having a great time challenging myself to come up with something new for each challenge theme. This week I did something totally out of character for me....I made a card with absolutely no stamping! I may have done this once or twice before, but I'm usually getting inky with every project. This time it was all about the paper!

This week's challenge theme is Nursery Rhymes and Fairy Tales. I found the perfect paper from Graphic45. Their ABC Primer 8x8 paper pad provided the perfect inspiration for this theme and I came up with a simple, vintage-style card.

Other than cutting the paper the only real creative work I did was adding color to the title cut-out piece with pencils. Then I clear embossed both of the small pieces several times to give them a glossy look. The buttons and the paper lace are from my stash and I mounted everything on Neenah Desert Storm cardstock. You'd be surprised how much I can agonize over even a simple design like this.

Be sure to check out the challenge at the Simon Says Stamp Challenge blog for your chance to win a $50.00 credit voucher. The Design Team always has some awesome inspiration for you!

~ Matthew 5:3-10 ~

God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him,

for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

God blesses those who mourn,

for they will be comforted.

God blesses those who are humble,

for they will inherit the whole earth.

God blesses those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be satisfied.

God blesses those who are merciful,

for they will be shown mercy.

God blesses those whose hearts are pure,

for they will see God.

God blesses those who work for peace,

for they will be called the children of God.

God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right,

for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Just a little post....

2011-10-17T15:38:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun teaching my classes at Stamp Fever on Saturday...I just love all these wonderful women! I thought I would share some of the happy smiles....

From the left: Sondra, Karen, Linda, Carol (in front), Jacquie, Sue, Linda, Barbara and Evelyn.

Carol, Karen, Sondra, Evelyn and Linda in line at the check out; adding to their stamping stashes.

I had to get in on the photo op with Carol, Sondra and Karen.

Here's a couple more cards using Hero Arts Large and Small Solid Flowers.

This one uses the Matte Coate paper resist technique.

The large flower was stamped with Versamark ink then brushed with Perfect Gold Perfect Pearls powder.

These flower stamps are so versatile, they are definitely favorites that I reach for a lot.

I'm sure I've shared these verses before, but this passage is a favorite of mine.

~ Psalm 37:1-4 ~

Don't worry about the wicked

or envy those who do wrong.

For like grass, they soon fade away.

Like spring flowers, they soon wither.

Trust in the Lord and do good.

Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.

Take delight in the Lord,

and He will give you your heart's desires.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Stamping Basics Class Card Samples

2011-10-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

My creative mojo has completed gone on vacation lately. I'm teaching a class this Saturday and only just completed the cards yesterday. That's cutting it much closer than even this veteran procrastinator is comfortable with. The cards use a matte finish cardstock that gives a really unique resist effect when paired with some layered stamping. I've used this cardstock before on this card. Both cards feature Hero Arts cling stamps: Large Solid Flower and Small Solid Flower; they are perfect for this resist technique.

Here's the first card; you'd be surprised how many failed attempts preceded this one that finally made the cut.

For this card I did some simple resist on the background; I stamped the Large Solid Flower with Versamark ink 4 times on the white card base and set it aside to completely dry. Then I blended Wild Honey Distress ink over the top to cover the card. Since I didn't clear emboss the stamped flowers the resist image is softer.

The main panel was first stamped with an Impression Obsession Cover-a-card background stamp, Small Paisley, with Versamark. Then the Small Solid Flower was over-stamped in both Wild Honey and Seedless Preserves Distress inks. You can see how the paisley pattern resists the Distress inks. To finish the panel I used a bit Seedless Preserves on an ink blending tool to lightly ink the edges.

I die cut the leaves and inked them with the Wild Honey and Seedless Preserves Distress inks, stamped the Hero Arts sentiment, then punched a tiny hole in each leaf. I wrapped a length of jute twine around the panel twice and tied it in a simple knot. I threaded the ends through holes in the leaves and knotted them.
The panel is attached using a tape runner and the leaves are held in place with dimensional foam adhesive.

The second card is totally simple but with that same fabulous resist effect.

Just lots of layered stamping here. Friend Definition stamped with Versamark, then Large Solid Flower over-stamped with Seedless Preserves Distress ink. Then I stamped the sentiment with Black Soot Distress ink. A little layering with a lace edged die cut and a clear crystal gem and this 4.25 square card is done.

Here's a little peak at some of the designs that didn't make the cut:

I tried several different backgrounds before I realized I really didn't like the colors I had used. There were many more attempts that I didn't photograph, too awful for words.

If you have stuck with me through all of this I think you deserve a little peak at my adorable grandson. I hate to admit it, but I'm that grandma proudly sharing photos of the little darling.

Little Uriah is just over a month old, growing like a weed and such a happy little guy. If the bib is any indication he apparently takes after his daddy.

~ Proverbs 9:7-12 ~
"Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return.
Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt.
So don't bother correcting mockers; they will only hate you.
But correct the wise, and they will love you.
Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser.
Teach the righteous, and they will learn even more.
Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom.
Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgement.
Wisdom will multiply your days and add years to your life.
If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit.
If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer."

blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Harvest Moon Mini Card for Simon Says Stamp

2011-10-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone...I'm back with another {guest designer} project for Simon Says Stamp.

The theme this week at the Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog is halloween or goth. I don't normally do halloween or goth so I found a compromise using the new Lawn Fawn set Happy Haunting and a bright color palette.

This is a 4x4 mini card featuring the spooky house and bats from Happy Haunting.

The house was stamped with Memento Tuxedo Black ink on Tiara White cardstock. I colored it using various colors of Copic markers. I cut it out and spritzed it with a mixture of Perfect Pearls powder and water in a mini mister. Then I set it aside to dry.

For the background I trimmed white cs to 3.75 square. I covered the whole piece with Jenni Bowlin Lavender Sachet ink. Then I spritzed the Hero Arts Friend Definition cling stamp with the Perfect Pearls water and stamped onto the inked background. This gives a fun blurred image.

Next I punched a 2.25 inch circle from the calendar paper in the Crate Paper Portrait 6x6. I inked it with Wild Honey Distress ink. Then I stamped the pair of bats with Tuxedo Black ink. Then I spritzed this piece with Perfect Pearls too.

To assemble the card I started by adhering a 4x4 black cs panel to the card base. Then I added the "moon" to the background and adhered it to the card. The house was added with dimensional foam adhesive.

To finish I added the sentiment with Tiny Type stickers and then I added some Glossy Accents to the windows and the bats.

So now, make sure you join in on the challenge because Heidi will be giving one lucky entrant a $50 voucher to her FANTASTIC Simon Says Stamp Superstore !!

~ Psalm 62:1,5 ~

I wait quietly before God,

for my victory comes from Him.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God,

for my hope is in Him.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

My Cup of Tea

2011-10-08T23:03:00.000-07:00

I'm supposed to be posting my cards for my class next Saturday but nothing is coming together just yet so in the meantime I'll just share some cards I've been making lately just for fun!

I love playing with Lawn Fawn stamps! This card came together really quick with an Accent Cut from the Farmhouse Collection by Crate Paper. No bling, just a fun little card to have on hand to easily pop in the mail.

For this card I used Lawn Fawn stamps to create the background pattern and paper from the Farmhouse and Random 6x6 paper pads. I'm adding this card to the Lawnscaping Challenge to add layers/dimension.

Here's a close-up of the stamping...a little Glossy Accents really makes the heart on the teacup stand out.

Thanks for stopping by to visit!

~ Colossians 4:2 ~

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Kathy's Lily Pad Palette Color Challenge

2011-10-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

I love a good color challenge and when you throw in a fabulous Tiffany Doodles Digital Image, the fun really begins!

Here's Kathy's color palette for this month:

In a previous life (career) I taught 1st through 8th grade computer classes at a Christian school. One of my favorite things to teach was Microsoft Publisher. And I still use my 2003 version of Publisher to do all of my digital crafting. I have Photoshop but I just don't use it much so I never got very proficient with it.
I'm not sure if anyone still has this older version of Publisher and I wonder if the newer versions still look and work the same, but I've included a short photo tutorial in case you'd like to give it a try. (Most everything can be done in Word or Powerpoint also). I also throw in some re-coloring in Paint just to prove how old school I am.
Now, on to the card using THIS golf cart image by Tiffany Doodles:

I started with a 5.5x4.25 inch top folded card base. I inked around the edges with Spiced Marmalade Distress ink, then stamped Paisley Outline by Penny Black using Stormy Sky Distress ink.

Next I opened the Golf Cart image in Paint. I added color to the background and saved it as Golf Cart-white.

Then I opened Publisher and searched for Clipart for the background:

I created a 4 x 5.25 inch rectangle, cropping and resizing the clipart pics to fit. Then I added the Golf Cart image and formatted it by "setting transparent background". This takes the purple color away but leaves the interior of the golf cart white. If I didn't do this step the whole image would be transparent and the background would show through the golf cart. It wasn't critical for this project, since I paper-pieced over it, but it allows me to leave it white if I want. I resized the golf cart to fit my background, then I did a copy/paste so my extra golf cart would be the right size.

Next I needed to recolor the background to match the Color Palette:

I chose a dark teal to match the palette color, then lightened it a bit.
The last step in Publisher was to add a text box and type in my golf cart quote.
Once everything was positioned how I wanted it, I printed this page on Neenah Tiara White Cardstock.
I added some detail to the golf clubs and the hub caps with a Faber-Castell PITT Artist pen in silver.
I trimmed the panel, matted it with a black cs then added it to my prepared card base using dimensional foam adhesive.

Next I colored the extra golf cart with Copic markers, no shading just getting color down.

and then added some texture and pattern with the Paisley Outline stamp using Stormy Sky ink.

The colored parts of the image were cut out and paper pieced onto the finished panel using glue dots for just a bit of dimension.

This seems like it was a lot of work, but it took longer to put this blog post together than it did to complete the card. I plan to make a bunch of these using different quotes and varying the backgrounds to have on hand for giving to all the golfers in my life. Maybe I will even adapt the backgrounds and colors and make Christmas cards! I can see it now...a little holly garland on the cart and mistletoe hanging from the clubs!

Thanks for sticking with this long post. I hope you try this method to add backgrounds to your Digital Images. Now don't forget to visit the Lily Pad Cards blog to see all the Tiffany Doodles gorgeous-ness by the Design Team.

~ Romans 3:23-26 ~

"For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.

Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous.

He did this through Christ Jesus when He freed us from the penalty for our sins.

For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin.

People are made right with God when they believe

that Jesus sacrificed His life, shedding His blood.....

God did this to demonstrate His righteousness

for He Himself is fair and just

and He declares sinners to be right in His sight when they believe in Jesus."

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

my happy...

2011-10-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

Just a quick card share today...lots of layered paper and white embossing.

I'll be back tomorrow with a new card for Lily Pad Cards and I'm working on some cards for my next Stamping Basics class at Stamp Fever. I'll be sharing them here and on the Stamp Fever blog on Saturday.

another favorite verse from a favorite psalm

~ Psalm 86:15 ~

But You, O Lord, are a God of compassion and mercy,

slow to get angry

and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

my reading this morning also included these verses from 2 Peter.

~ 2 Peter 3:8-9, 15 ~

A day is like a thousand years to the Lord,

and a thousand years is like a day.

The Lord isn't really being slow about His promise as some people think.

No, He is being patient for your sake.

He does not want anyone to perish but wants everyone to repent.

The Lord's patience gives people time to be saved.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Simon Says Stamp Challenge

2011-10-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to be the Guest Designer for the month of October for my favorite online store:

I've been working in secret on some fun projects for their Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog; make sure to check out all the fabulous work by the Design Team.

The theme for this week is Sparkle and Bling!

Here's my card using some of my favorite Lawn Fawn stamps:

I started off by clear embossing the snowflakes on white cardstock and blending Tumbled Glass Distress ink over to cover. To get the sparkle, I spritzed it with a home made pearly mix of 1/4 teaspoon Perfect Pearl powder in a Mini Mister filled 3/4 up with water.
For the top of the card, I stamped more snowflakes from the "Frosties" set with more Tumbled Glass Distress ink, the silvery sparkle is added with a Sakura Gelly Roll pen in Clear Star.
I die cut a small label using Spellbinder's Labels 8 and using a Hero Arts stamp called Screen Shadow I inked it with Tumbled Glass and spritzed more of my perfect pearl mist before stamping on the label. After I let it dry I inked the edges for definition.
The sweet Winter Fox was stamped twice using Memento Tuxedo Black ink, once on the inked label panel and once on a white cs scrap. The sentiment was also stamped on the label. I used a variety of Copic markers to color the image then I cut it out and pieced it onto the label. I highlighted the image and sentiment with the Clear Star Gelly Roll pen.

All that was left to do was layer all the stamped elements on 5.5 x 4.25 top folded card with a punched piece of Echo Park patterned paper. The label was added with dimensional foam adhesive. The final step is to add the embellishment for a bit more Sparkle and Bling! I layered 2 Hero Arts felt snowflakes with some silver twine and a Hero Hues gem.

So now, make sure you join in on the challenge because Heidi will be giving one lucky entrant a $50 voucher to her FANTASTIC Simon Says Stamp Superstore !!

~ Psalm 42:11 ~

"Why am I so discouraged?

Why is my heart so sad?

I will put my hope in God!

I will praise Him again- my Savior and my God!"

blessings,

nancy

Here's some links to the products I used in today's card project:

InLinkz.com

Can you say Bling?

2011-09-23T01:04:00.000-07:00

If you've been here more than a couple times you have most likely noticed that I'm a no-frills card maker. A flower here or a button there, a bit of jute or baker's twine and I'm good to go. So when I heard that using bling was the challenge this week at the Lily Pad I had just a moment of panic. But then, they don't call them challenges for nothing. This challenge is sponsored by Simon Says Stamp. You can find all the stamps and supplies I used on my card at this wonderful one-stop online shop.

To get my card started I rummaged through my bins of hoarded supplies and came across some Hero Arts Snowflake Gems which gave me the creative spark I needed. Some great Lawn Fawn stamps, a bit of paper by Echo Park, assorted inks and miscellaneous silver gems and I was happy with this retro 60s inspired bling-y card.

The ornaments were silver embossed then Soft Pool Shadow ink and Fired Brick Distress ink were applied directly from the ink pad to the paper. I used a silver PITT Artist pen from Faber-Castell to fill in the tops of the ornaments.

You won't want to miss the blinged out goodness from the rest of the Design Team at Lily Pad Cards, those girls really know how to use bling!

~ Psalm 5:7 ~

"Because of Your unfailing love, I can enter Your house;

I will worship at Your temple with deepest awe."

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

New Hero Arts Stamps and a Birthday Card

2011-09-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

I love the new Hero Arts-Studio Calico stamps! They're fun, a little retro and so versatile, you can use them on anything! I inked mine up to make a birthday card for the new mommy, my sweet daughter-in-love.

I combined stamps from 3 sets: You are the Best, Hooray, and My Happy. The sentiment is from Bake Me a Cake by Lawn Fawn. The papers are Echo Park Country Drive.

~ Romans 5:1 ~

Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith,

we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ has done for us.

blessings,
nancy

InLinkz.com

Time to get small....

2011-09-19T18:08:00.000-07:00

with inchies and mini cards!
I taught a class at Stamp Fever on Saturday with an inchie focus. I brought bags of scrap patterned paper to class so the ladies could make some bonus inchie cards. Here they are hard at work and having fun too!

Left to right is Kim, Evelyn, Karen, Jacquie and Sondra. In this class we finished THIS card that we didn't have time to do last month along with THIS card. Then we made some inchie mini cards.

Here's my inchie minis:

This card is 3.5 x 3.5 and uses scraps from October Afternoon, Basic Grey and The Girls' Paperie.
The stamps are from Hero Arts Sweet One set.

This 3x3 inch card uses Cosmo Cricket, Basic Grey and Hero Hues papers with Lawn Fawn sentiment from Sophie's Sentiments.

For this 3x3 inch card I did a reverse mask using a 1 inch square punch to create the grid pattern and stamped Hero Arts Friend Definition. Then I stamped the adorable specs and sentiment from Lawn Fawn's Clear to See set. I love the gems. I only wish I had the chutzpah to wear glasses like these!

I'm entering these minis in the CAS-ual Fridays challenge:

~ Psalm 51:10 ~

"Create in me a pure heart, O God,

and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Lily Pad, Hero Arts and a sketch

2011-09-16T01:10:00.000-07:00

What could be better than new Hero Arts Christmas stamps? How about a Lily Pad Cards sketch challenge?
It's time for another Lucy's Lovely Lines challenge over at the pond so here's the sketch.....

and here's my cards using the clear set Reindeer Christmas and Snowflake Shapes Clings.....

I used a lot of Rock Candy Distress Stickles, Baby Blue Stickles and Glossy Accents to give this card some sparkle and shine!

details close up...I love how the Glossy Accents gives the reindeer googly eyes and make his nose shiny

Paper piecing was done with Crate Paper's Snow Day from last year, I love the whimsical colors and design of these papers.

This card uses both stamp sets again with Graphic45 paper, Tim Holtz tissue tape, Pink Paislee decorative tape. The leaves are an EK Success punch.

To make the snowflake heart really glossy, I stamped it with red ink then cut it out leaving a 1/2 by 1 inch tab on one side. Then I applied Versamark ink to the heart and clear embossed it holding it by the tab with tweezers to keep from burning my fingers. I repeated this several times until it had a thick glossy sheen. You could use Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel and only repeat the embossing once or twice for the same effect. I added Crushed Olive Distress ink to the punched leaves.

Now check out the fabulous work from the rest of the Lily Pad Cards Design Team. I know you'll be impressed and inspired. I can't wait to see what you do with the sketch!

~ 1 Peter 4:7-8 ~

The end of all things is near.

Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.

Above all, love each other deeply,

because love covers over a multitude of sins.

blessings,

nancy

InLinkz.com

Read a Book

2011-09-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

So one of the challenge themes at Hero Arts this month is window cards. For some reason I decided I needed to make a literal window so I could use the Winter Town stamp as the outside scene.

"The love of learning, the sequestered nooks,

And all the sweet serenity of books.

~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The cozy indoor scene (I guess this could have been made for last month's challenge, too bad I didn't think of it then) was constructed using Basic Grey's Oxford papers and stamps from the Wish You Were Here clear set. I made wallpaper with Powder Layering paper and Dots and Flowers background stamp. The wainscoting is simply layered cardstock squares. I computer generated and printed the throw pillow/sentiment. The picture on the wall is from the PTI set On My Couch.

~ 2 Timothy 2:15 ~

"Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive His approval.

Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed

and who correctly explains the Word of Truth."

blessings,

nancy

First time using the Inlinkz Link Manager! Thanks Vicky and Aris!

InLinkz.com

Digital Scrapbooking

2011-09-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

I used some older Digital Scrapbook Kits to play with the photos of the new baby. I thought I would create a simple scrapbook for Kellie starting with some photos of Uriah's first day. The kits I used are: Jen Martakis-"April 2010" and Michelle Underwood- "That Was Yesterday". Unfortunately I got these digi kits so long ago I could no longer find them at Two Peas. They have over 5000 digi kits so I'm sure you can find one to fit your theme. Don't worry if you don't have Photoshop or some other expensive photo editing software...I did these in Microsoft Publisher 2003...Word or PowerPoint will also work.

The collection of scrap-booked photos.

When I set a transparent background for the photo, it allowed the pattern from the digi paper to show through to the white blanket. Ties it all together.

Andy was so excited and so calm at the time...I was very proud of him.

I made a photo pocket using the same digi elements to give the photos to Kellie and Andy.

Closeup of the digital elements....papers and scalloped border from the Jen Martakis kit and the colorful banner from the Michelle Underwood kit. I liked that the elements weren't baby themed but they are still cheerful and work together well. I added the captions in WordArt using the font "Pristina".

This photo was taken on Uriah's second day...I'm totally smitten!

Funny story~ Uriah looks so much like his daddy when he was a baby....I scanned a photo of Andy taken about an hour after he was born and emailed it to Andy for comparison.

When Andy showed this photo to his mother in law she was wondering why the photo of Uriah was so grainy and such a bad photo. She was shocked to learn that it was Andy and not Uriah (and Uriah was in the room with her at time). He does appear to be a clone of his daddy.

Hopefully I'll get back to making some cards again soon. I finally have a good reason to try my hand at scrapbooking though, so I'll be splitting my crafting time.

~ Mark 10:13-16 ~

One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so He could touch and bless them.

But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering Him.

When Jesus saw what was happening, He was angry with His disciples.

He said to them, "Let the children come to Me. Don't stop them!

For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.

I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God

like a child will never enter it."

Then He took the children in His arms and placed

His hands on their heads and blessed them.

blessings,

nancy

You heard it right...I'm a Grandma!

2011-09-02T16:06:00.000-07:00

I have fallen head over heels in love....with a tiny little baby boy. My new grandson, Uriah West Krueger.
Vital statistics: Born at 11:27 am on September 2, 2011 (his actual due date).
8 lbs, 4 oz. 21 inches.
He is so sweet and adorable, he even took time out of his busy napping schedule to pose for some photos.

Uriah West Krueger

Meeting my precious little grandson for the first time.

Three of my favorite men.

The happy new grandparents.

~ Psalm 127:3 ~

"Children are a gift from the Lord;

they are a reward from Him."

blessings,

nancy

Dancing my way to another Lily Pad Cards Color Challenge

2011-09-02T01:02:00.000-07:00

It's time for another Kathy's Lily Pad Palette Challenge:

So here's some randomness about me: I was once a dancer. Started taking ballet lessons at the age of 4 and continued studying various dance styles all the way through to college. I always thought it was so humorous though, that God gave me the ability to dance but He also gave me short stubby legs. I do not have the classic willowy dancer's body and I realized early on that my chances of making it as a professional were slim to none. So I got married and had kids and turned to choreographing school musicals, coaching volleyball and soccer and teaching PE. I still enjoy dance and I love to watch "So You Think You Can Dance".

When the Lily Pad Cards Design Team was given the opportunity to select from the gorgeous illustrations at A Day for Daisies I fell in love with the image of ballet slippers. I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it too.

Here's a bit of ballet inspiration:

I love the traditional pale pink of ballet slippers. Although I never learned to dance "en pointe" I do still have my battered ballet slippers and I still slip into them to practice barre exercises occasionally.

Since I had a digital image to work with I planned to design my set of cards entirely on the computer, just adding some black mat layers to create my set of cards. I found some dance quotes online and used my favorite fonts. I even added color to my image using Microsoft Paint, it couldn't have been easier.

This quote is especially meaningful to me as I had the chance to see the amazing Judith Jamison dance way back in 1976 with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Quotes: Ballet Quotes ; Fonts: Kevin and Amanda

Please check out the beautiful and inspiring images at "A Day for Daisies" then go to Lily Pad Cards and be further inspired by the gorgeous work by the Design Team. I hope you join us for this color challenge.

~ Galatians 5:14-15 ~

"For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters.

But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature.

Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.

For the whole law can be summed up in this one command:

"Love your neighbor as yourself".

always keep dancing,

nancy

Joining the Fun at CAS-ual Fridays

2011-08-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

I'm finally joining in on another CAS-ual Fridays challenge, wouldn't want to overextend myself.

The theme is Stuck on You with the instructions to use stickers on your CAS card design.

I still had the Cosmo Cricket Clementine mini deck on my desk and my SRM stickers in easy reach so why not see what happens. A scalloped die cut square, a punched butterfly (left over from another card) and a bit of baker's twine and there you have it.

~ Psalm 116:1-2 ~

"I love the Lord because He hears my voice

and my prayer for mercy.

Because He bends down to listen,

I will pray as long as I have breath!"

blessings,

nancy