Workshop Card

I found a card very similar to this on SCS this morning. I wanted to do one more card for the workshop today.

SU does not have chocolate brads, and they retired the copper ones, so what's a girl to do? Well, make them silly. I took my retired copper brads and inked them up with chocolate chip craft ink. Dipped the brad in clear embossing powder, and heated. So what do you think, easy huh? Oh one thing make sure that you use the tweezers to hold the brad -- they get REALLY hot!!!

Stamps: Baroque Motifs Inks: Chocolate Chip, River Rock Paper: Chocolate Chip, River Rock, Brocade Background DP Extras: brads, dimensionals, clear embossing powder, heat gun, tweezers, stamp-a-ma-jig, scallop circle punch

RAK from Teri

Here is my last RAK from the Holiday SWAP cards. This one is from Teri, Big Ideas from a Little Girl. Isn't this card adorable? I love it. Teri is such a sweetie, make sure you go and visit her.

RAK from Allison

It seems like I have been away forever!!! This week has been so busy. I hope everyone is doing well.

Here is another RAK that I received from the Holiday SWAPs. I hope everyone was able to see all the SWAP cards. All of the cards are absolutely BEAUTIFUL.

This RAK is from Allison, Stampin When I Can. Isn't this card just gorgeous? I especially love the layout, I think it is from one of Beate's Weekend Sketch Challenges. Go visit Allison's site, she has a wealth of information everyday. Plus she is a FANTASTIC lady!!

RAK and SOOOOO busy

HI everyone!!! I have not been able to do anything but school work this week. We had 2 science projects due this week, and nobody told me until Monday night. Amazing how they forgot all about the projects over the weekend. We are finishing everything up tonight, so just a very quick post.

I promise I will catch up on every one's sites this weekend. I have not been able to blurf at all this week -- GASP!! BTW -- my rear is on the mend. Wearing pantyhose this week has been a little painful, but I am managing. Thanks to everyone for thinking about me. I really appreciate the kind words. The bruising on my skin is finally fading. Now I just need to wait for the bone chip to heal.

Here is a RAK that I received from Amanda, Simple Sentiments. She sent this card along with the Holiday SWAPS. Isn't this beautiful!!! She used the Butterfly Kisses stamp set from Paper Trey. Go check out her site, everything is so BEAUTIFUL!!

Speaking of Paper Trey, I received several set this week as an early Birthday present. I am hoping to play with them this weekend.

Note Card Folder

Here is one of the cards and a project that we will be doing at Janet's workshop this Sunday. I have seen several SU ladies do folders, this is my take. I do not seem to use very vanilla card stock or ribbon very often, so I thought this would be the perfect time. I needed to make it easy enough for beginners and difficult enough for the seasoned stampers. Any suggestions would definitely be welcome!!!

The ribbon is fed through the folder to hold the cards and/or envelopes in. You could do this folder with only 2 holes, but I thought this was a nice touch.

Stamps: Baroque Motifs Inks: Mellow Moss, Always Artichoke, Rose Red Paper: Always Artichoke, Very Vanilla Extras: Vanilla ribbon, Corner rounder and 1/8" HH circle punches

Another RAK

Here is another RAK that I received with the SWAP. I think this was one of the best parts of my Holiday Card SWAP -- receiving RAKS.


This one is from Michelle, Come Stamp with Me. It is definitely one of those cards that is better IRL (in real life), the picture does not do it justice. The image is done with the cracked glass technique. This card is so bright and cheerful, I love it. Go visit Michelle's site -- she is one FANTASTIC lady.

For Victoria

This card is for Victoria. She is a young girl that has been diagnosed with cancer. You can read about her here. Many of the ladies in the stamping world are sending her card, and this one is mine.

This card is also for the sketch challenge for this week SC142. I made my own DP again with the Paper Trey flowers. The little rhinestones are from Marcella by K. I do not remember whether I purchased them at Michael's or AC Moore, but I am sure I used my coupon.

Stamps: Texted Box Inks: Rose Red, Regal Rose, Pixie Pink Paper: Rose Red, Regal Rose, Pixie Pink, Whisper White Extras: Corner rounder punch, dimensionals, rhinestones

RAK

Well Brandon and I went to the post office this morning to try the new automated teller. There is a computer and scale to use to mail packages, the only draw back is that it does not work for foreign packages. It took us forever -- not because of the process -- because Brandon felt he needed to "help" and push all the buttons. (oh boy). I was able to mail all the US packages, the Canadian ones will go out tomorrow. If your package arrives with postage due please let me know, I am not sure we did everything correctly.

I did figure out one thing though, next time I do a swap I think I am just going to ask for $2 in cash. All those stamps were so confusing. I am sure I messed some up. Many of the ladies that put postage on their packages put too much, and others did not put enough, and then Brandon dropped all the loose ones. Good thing nobody was around to see us.

Do you want to do another SWAP? Not a Holiday swap silly -- a new caddy swap. I know the new caddy is far off, but keep me in mind. I want to do a 2008 Spring Summer SU Caddy SWAP. I figure it will be due at the end of January. I know you are thinking --crazy lady it is not even Halloween yet. I will remind you after the Holidays.

I received several cards with my SWAP packages, this is the first one. This card is from Kathleen, My Happy Place. Go check her site out, she is so talented.

ETA:

Several ladies have emailed me apologizing for the postage confusion. I did not mean to sound like I was complaining. I think the majority of the problem was from Brandon trying to help. I did not ask for postage for the swaps, mainly because this was my first time "hosting" a SWAP and I was not sure what to do. I just hope that I did not cheat any of you out of stamps -- do not worry about me. I want to thank every one of you for doing this SWAP. I had such a fun time doing it -- confusion and all. I also hope that you will consider doing another SWAP with me sometime.

BIG smile ~~Corie

Couldn't Stay Away All Day

I am going crazy. I cannot sit still (or should I say lie still) all day, so I did this one card.

I love how the bottom turned out. (better IRL) I used Blue Bayou, Soft Sky, River Rock, and Old Olive with the Paper Trey Texted Box set. It really looks like DP. Nichole has done such a fantastic job with all her sets, she includes many different sized stamps. I am not so happy about the top, but I have promised myself that I am not going to be so hard on myself any more.

What do you think, is it to busy up top, maybe I should just stamp the words, and not all the flowers.

Stamps: Texted Box Inks: Blue Bayou, Soft Sky, River Rock, Old Olive Paper: Blue Bayou, Old Olive, Whisper White Extras: Corner rounder, small & large oval punch, artichoke ribbon

Clutz Alert

Hi Ladies!!

Well I am a CLUTZ, and I proved it last night. I sorted and packaged up all the swaps. I was in the Living room organizing them into piles -- have postage, doesn't have postage, and Canadian ladies. I tripped over one of the piles and fell. The problem is that I fell into the arm of my sofa. I have one of those "Foo Foo" (French Provincial) sofas with wooden arms. Well guess where the wooden arm went -- Yep my butt! I have chipped and bruised my tail bone, OMG it is SOOOOO painful. So the bad news, I cannot sit for very long, and I cannot drive with the pain meds I am on. So I will be mailing your SWAPs on Monday, I hope you do not mind -- I feel terrible I know you all are waiting patiently by your mail box. The other things is that I cannot sit at my desk to create anything or blurf. Hubby joked about getting me a donut, I might take him up on it. I know I will be having BLOG withdrawl this weekend.

BIG smiles,
Corie

Holiday SWAPS

Here is a slide show of all the cards that were created for by Holiday SWAP. I think I did this correctly.

Drum Roll

The boys drew Rita's name. Congrats ladybug -- I already have your addy so I will mail your package tomorrow.

Update on teachers:

Well I was really concerned about the back-to-school night ordeal, so I emailed Justin's English teacher. I have to say they were WONDERFUL. Each of the kids is on a team, so Justin's English, Math, Science, and Social Studies teachers meet as a team every afternoon. Well to make a long story short, they invited me to come to the school and meet with them Wednesday. I feel so much better. BTW did you know that Home Ec is now Family and Consumer Sciences -- too funny.

Sail away -- again

Here is another card that I created with the Winds of Grace stamp set. I am trying to do Guy cards, they seem to be the most difficult --for me at least.

I water colored the image and then sponged around it with So Saffron -- to "age" it. You can see the leaves in the background better on this picture. These are the leaves from the Country Blessings stamp set. I inked the leaf with More Mustard, then accented the center and edges with chocolate chip. I also frayed the edges of the twill tape -- to distress the card even more.

Stamps: Winds of Grace, Country Blessings, PaperTrey Inks: Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, Blush Blossom, Sahara Sandy, Soft Sky, Chocolate Chip, Timber Brown Staz on Paper: Confetti Cream, Not Quite Navy, Chocolate Chip, So Saffron, Extras: Twill Tape, Hodge Podge Hardware, Distressing Tool, Dimensionals, paint brush, sponge

BLOG Candy

This is a really quick post. The boys will be drawing the name for my candy, we just need to print everyone's name then check for bonus points. While you wait here is some Candy that we all should do. Just click here to see the details.

BTW -- Thanks to all you wonderful ladies that gave me such encouraging comments about Back-to-School night. It really helps!!! I spoke with Justin's teachers this afternoon -- GOOD NEWS. I will post an update later tonight, or tomorrow morning.

BIG BIG smiles!!

New Tag

OK girls here are more tidbits about me. Not happy about the middle name one.

Diane from My Little Stampin' Spot! tagged my for this first one:

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet & current car) - Toto Grand Cherokee


2.YOUR GANGSTA NAME: (fav ice cream flavor, favorite cookie) Vanilla Oatmeal Raisin


3. YOUR “FLY Guy/Girl” NAME: (first initial of first name, first three letters of your last name) C-FOS


4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal) - Sage Cheetah


5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)- Lenora Washington DC


6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first) - Fosco


7. SUPERHERO NAME: (2nd favorite color, favorite drink put “The”) The Wasabi Diet Coke


8. NASCAR NAME: (the first names of your grandfathers)- Darrell Larney

9. STRIPPER NAME : ( the name of your favorite perfume/cologne, favorite candy) Lauren Butterscotch


10.WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: (mother’s & father’s middle names ) Vina Morton


OK who is up? -- Jen, Teri, Carrie, Michelle




Rhonda from Rhonda's Design Haven tagged me for this one.

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yep my Grandma, my real name is Corinna Lenora. For the record my sister has a normal name -- Tracie Lynn -- no fair huh?

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Last Wednesday. Some kids were mean to my older son, and it broke my heart. He did not see me cry, he would be so embarrassed.

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? It is OK

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Roast Beef, the redder the better

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yep 2 boys

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Not really

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? NO WAY

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Frosted Mini Wheats

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Nope

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Yes, if you had asked me 10 years ago I would have said no. Having a "special" child has made me so much stronger. My mom always says that God does not give you anything you cannot handle. I know it is true, but sometimes I wish he was not so "generous"

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Coffee, if I had to choose. I really do not eat ice cream.

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Physical -- eyes, hair, and height -- Emotionally -- self confidence

15. Red or Pink? Definitely RED

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My stomach.

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Jane and my Grandma

18. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Black pants, no shoes --shoes come off the first thing when I arrive home.

19. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? Bagel

20. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Peace and quiet -- the kids are outside playing

21. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Green or purple

22. FAVORITE SMELLS? Coffee

23. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Hubbie, he calls me several times a day.

24. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Yep -- she is amazing!!

25. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Football.

26. HAIR COLOR? Blonde

27. EYE COLOR? Blue

28. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Sometimes, depends on how lazy I am. I am blind as a bat so I need one or the other.

29. FAVORITE FOOD? Donuts.

30. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings

31. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Matrix -- the boys had a Matrix movie marathon.

32. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Black with a pink and red pattern.

33. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer definitely

34. FAVORITE DESSERT? Vanilla Bean Cheesecake

35. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? All the Harry Potters again.

36. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Big Dog

37. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Nothing, I do not watch TV

38. FAVORITE SOUND? Belly laugh

39. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Rolling Stones.

40. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Virgin Islands or Colorado, which one is further?

41. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? Stamping, I think

42. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Washington DC.

OK who is up next -- Allison, Kim, Melissa, Cheryl

Featured Stamper

Sunday Challenges at SCS sound like they would be easy. Beth picks stamper and then we CASE one of her cards. This is the first time I have participated, and it is NOT easy. Michelle had so many cards to choose from, and every single one of them is a masterpiece.

This week's stamper was Zindorf, here is her card that I choose to CASE.

Stamps: Touch of Nature, Flannel, French Script Inks: Not Quite Navy, Rose Red marker Paper: Not Quite Navy, Very Vanilla Extras: Dimensionals, paint brush, Bleach

My Anniversary was nice, --rather peaceful. The boys made Spaghetti, and actually cleaned up everything -- imagine that. I have not had a chance to scan pictures yet. I promise I will, it's just that work is a BEAR right now. It is the end of the fiscal year, and it is crazy this time of year.

OK -- I need to vent. -- It was Back-to-School night for Justin, my older son. Justin is in 7th grade (Middle School). How old do they have to be before we can stop going to Back-to-School night? If I was able to actually speak with his teachers it would be one thing, but I never seem to gain anything from going to these things. (The middle school ones) There were 10 other parents there --there are approximately 26 kids in each of his classes. So anyway we were given a list of things the teacher would accept and what they would not, and then what would happen if the kids broke the rules. What a negative experience. Boy-- middle school is so much different from elementary school. Brandon's teacher told us all kinds of things that the children would be learning this year. It was such a positive experience. I am not happy with Justin's school, I am just very thankful that he is in all the honors classes.

Sorry I do not complain very often, but sometimes it just gets to me. I actually thought about deleting all of this, but decided not to. I hope I have not offended any teachers out there. I think it is the second most important job in the world. Being a Mom is the first, or maybe I should say being a parent is the most important. I know so many teachers, and think they are all wonderful. Tonight was just one of those bad experiences.

Four Tidbits

I am not sure how this works, but Allison tagged me. So here goes.

Four Places I have worked
1. Stephanie's
2. Victoria Station
3. U. S. Department of Agriculture
4. U. S. Department of the Treasury

Four Places I have lived
1. Potomac, Maryland
2. North Potomac, Maryland
3. Laurel, Maryland
4. Crofton, Maryland
Maryland is the only place I have lived. Until I met my hubby I even lived in the county.

Four Places I have been on vacation
1. St. Thomas
2. St. John
3. St. Martin
4. Florida
Do you see the common thread -- beaches, sun, and sand -- my paradise

Four Favorite Foods
1. Donuts (not supposed to have)
2. Pretzels
3. Lasagna
4. OJ (not supposed to have unless my sugar level is low)
No chocolate, I am the only person that I know that does not like chocolate.

Four Places I would rather be right now.
1. Hawaii (can you guess why?)
2. Calgary (can you guess why?)
3. Alaska (can you guess why?)
4. Florida
Visiting friends

Four Friends most likely to respond
1. Flossie
2. Nancy G
3. Kathleen
4. Shannon

Today is the Correct Day

Today is my 13th Wedding Anniversary. Some days it seems like such a short time, and other days it seems like forever. (KWIM). Since it is Monday, I doubt that we end up doing anything special. I do believe the boys are making us dinner. The boys are 11 and 8 -- so it will be interesting to see what we have. My bet is on Spaghetti. I did wake up to a dozen roses, and a GREAT BIG kiss -- no complaints here!!

Here is the card that I made for hubby. I used the Winds of Grace stamp set. I think this will be my new "guy" set, since Balmy Breezes has been retired. I stamped the image with Timber Brown Staz On, and then water colored it in. The boat is a combo of creamy caramel, more mustard, and close to cocoa. The sail is a combo of sahara sand and blush blossom. I used the layout from the SC140 sketch challenge again. The sentiment is from PaperTrey Inks. They have the best sentiments -- the majority of their sentiments fit in all the "frames" (hodgepodge hardware, word window and oval punches). Not sure if you can tell my the picture, but the NQN layer is stamped with leaves.

Thanks for stopping by -- BIG SMILES

Stamps: Winds of Grace, Country Blessings (retired) Faux Ribbon (papertrey) Inks: Chocolate Chip, More Mustard, Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, Blush Blossom, Soft Sky, Timber Brown Staz on Paper: Confetti Cream, Not Quite Navy, Chocolate Chip Extras: paint brush, Twill tape, Hemp, Hodgepodge hardware, distressing tool

Halloween Swap

I have a question. I have not added "labels" to my posts. If I go back and do it now, will it send an email to my subscribers if I do? I have 270 posts, I certainly would not want to send you all 270 email messages. When I update my layout does it send an email too?

This is the card that I created for Kim's Halloween SWAP. Notice the layout, yep another one. I used $1 stamps from AC Moore, and retired paper from SU.

Do not forget about the CANDY.

BTW-- you all must think I am kidding about the constructive criticism. I would really like some suggestions on my site and my cards. I know I am hard on myself, but I also know that I have room for improvement.

Halloween SWAP cards

I was going to post pictures of all the Halloween cards that I received, but Kim did a photo album. So click over here, and look at all the adorable cards.

Oops I Did it AGAIN

I have a problem remembering when my anniversary is. --go figure--. See Rick and I were married 13 years ago, on September 17. Well my oops is the same every year. See I always think that our anniversary is September 15. So once again I woke up this morning and wished my husband a Happy Anniversary. Today is not my anniversary, Monday is. I guess it is better to be early than late. BTW -- he laughs at me every year.

Several of you have asked me to post a picture of myself. So because of my anniversary, I am going to try and scan our wedding picture this weekend to post for you all.

In honor of my anniversary and having over 15k hits on my little site I am offering CANDY. This time you will receive the Fun Filled Stamp Set (retired SU!), flower brads, Bold Brights pieces (retired SU!), flower rhinestones, and one of my Holiday SWAP card (hope you do not mind, but it is one of my rejects) -- I forgot to add that I have an Amuse set of stamps too -- the Animal Wishes one. It is not in the picture, but it will be in your bag of goodies.

What do you need to do to qualify for candy? Just leave me a comment. You will receive an extra chance if you subscribe to my site (yes those of you that have already subscribed will receive the extra chance). You will receive an additional chance if you leave me a comment telling me a tip that I could use to improve my site or card making abilities.

I will have the boys draw a name on Wednesday evening. GOOD LUCK!!

Ahoy Matey

This is a card for April, one of my Stampin' Ladies. She called me last night and asked me to make her a card for a 2 year old boy. So Ahoy Matey it is.


This is a tent topper card. I think these type of cards are great for the little ones. The best part of this card is that it stands up by itself. So the little boy can stand it up in his room if he would like.


I wheeled the map on whisper white. Then I watercolored parts and used markers on other parts. The mountain tops are highlighted with the white gel pen. When I was happy with the map, I tore the edges and sponged the entire image with So Saffron, to give it an aged look. I colored the little pirate with markers, and sponged around him with So Saffron too. I punched the corners with the ticket corner punch, (yes I am addicted), and placed the gold brads in the corners.


Here is a picture of the inside. I did not want to cover up the map with the sentiment so I put it on the inside of the card -- popped up on dimensionals.

Stamps: Ahoy Matey, Matey's Map Wheel, It's your birthday Inks: Tempting Turquoise, Taken with Teal, Summer Sun, So Saffron, Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Basic Black, Old Olive, Bashful Blue, Going Grey, Gable Green, Close to Cocoa, Blush Blossom Paper: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Kraft, Basic Black Extras: Wheel Handle, Gold Brads, Ticket Corner Punch, Dimensionals, white gel pen

A Reject and a Keeper

Here is the last of my SWAP cards. I started with this one, but I thought it was lacking BLING. Can you tell that I LOVE this layout? I think it is simple, yet so beautiful. So this one is the reject.

This one is the keeper. I think I have worn out my ticket corner punch. 24 cards and numerous punches on each card. Well if any one was wondering whether these punches are worth it, I am here to tell you that they DEFINITELY are.

I stamped the Merry & Bright images, and water colored them in. Then I applied versamark over the image and embossed with Iridescent Ice. (I do not know whether you can see it in the picture). I added the scallop punched layer to this card. Well now that I am looking at it, maybe this one is a little busy. Oh well, I have already done 8 copies.

Stamps: Merry & Bright, The Snowflake Spot Inks: Always Artichoke, River Rock, Purely Pomegranate, Pumpkin Pie, Versamark, Black Staz-on Paper: Bravo Burgundy, Always Artichoke, Very Vanilla, Holiday Harmony Designer Paper Extras: Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Heat Gun, paint brush, Scallop, Ticket Corner, 1 ¼” & 1 3/8” circle punches, Dimensionals, Artichoke Ribbon

Holiday Card Swap Reminder

Just a little friendly reminder that the Holiday Swap Cards are due by this Saturday. Please have them postmarked no later than September 15. Here is a list of the groups. The cards that I have received are FANTASTIC!!

Group 1

1. Allison
2. Melissa K. -- Received
3. Libby
4. Michelle -- Received
5. Melissa R. -- Received
6. Rita -- Received
7. Kim -- Received
8. Me -- Done

Group 2

1. Teri
2. Carrie -- Received
3. Julie -- Received
4. Elizebeth -- Received
5. Kat -- Received
6. Wanda -- Received
7 . Kathy -- Received
8. Me -- Done


Group 3

1. Jen -- Received
2. Amanda -- Received
3. Kathleen H -- Received
4. Lori -- Received
5. Beth / Me -- Done
6. Jenni
7. Kristina -- Received
8. Shelly -- Received

This has been so fun -- Thanks to all of you for playing along!!

Blog Buddies

I have added my BLOG buddy list to my left side bar. Let me know if I goofed something up. If you would like to be added to the list just leave a comment here or send me an email.

ETA: I have approximately 350 sites on my daily Google reader, but I have not added anyone to my buddy list that has not asked to be there. I have been "pinged" a few times for linking to someone's site without asking first. (I do not understand this, but it has happened). I know there are several ladies that I visit on a regular basis that are not on this list. So if you would like to be on my buddy list PLEASE leave me a comment or send me an email.

BIG SMILES ~~Corie

ETA: I would be honored to be linked to any of your sites. I would not be out here in BLOG world if it were not for Allison, she found me (I do not know how) and the rest is history -- so link away if you would like.

A Keeper -- I think

I think this is the card for another one of the SWAP groups. I need to stop being so critical of myself, I know this is a nice card. The one yesterday was my Vintage style card, and this one is my Bling card with non-red colors. (BTW it looks better IRL)

I stamped the Fine Lace BG with Night of Navy craft ink, and then embossed it with Hologram Highlights. The stamped the tree with Handsome Hunter craft ink on brushed silver CS, and then embossed it with clear. The words are done with markers and "huffing".

Stamps: Seasons of Joy, Fine Lace BG Inks: Night of Navy, Handsome Hunter Paper: Soft Sky, Night of Navy, Handsome Hunter, Brushed Silver, Whisper White Extras: Hologram Highlights and Clear embossing powder, Heat gun, Ticket Corner Punch, Silver Brads, Dimensionals

See my Goodies from Julie -- I won Candy from her. I love her card, will be CASEing that one.

Big Thanks to Julie :)

Not a Reject

I know I have been posting my Holiday SWAP rejects --and I have 3 more rejects-- but I thought you all might like to see a non-reject. I know all my rejects are OK, but I wanted a FANTASTIC card for the SWAP. I think I probably went overboard, but this is my first time hosting a SWAP. I hope you all like it. I am not sure which group this one will be for.

I used the "cracked glass" image from one of the rejects. I stamped the holly branches from the Peaceful Wishes stamp set on the DP instead of using the french script. Then I used the layout from last weeks sketch challenge. I love that sketch with ribbon -- so pretty. I embossed the sentiment with gold, and the rest is self explanatory.

Stamps: Sleigh Bells Ring, Peaceful Wishes Inks: Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip, Ruby Red, Rose Red, Sahara Sand, Soft Sky, River Rock, Always Artichoke, Timber Brown Staz On. Paper: Confetti Cream, Always Artichoke, Bravo Burgundy, Holiday Harmony DP Extras: Paint brush, corner rounder punch, gold brads, glassy glaze and gold embossing powders, heat gun, dimensionals, theater and burgundy ribbon, gold elastic cord.

September Stampin' Club Instructions

Link to tutorial: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/25710box.php
I used different score lines, but this is a good step by step tutorial

Stamps: Batty for You
Inks: Basic Black, Yo Yo Yellow (or any other color)
Paper: Whisper White, Basic Black, Old Olive, Lavender Lace, Yo Yo Yellow, DP
Extras: Scallop, HH rectangle, 1” & 1 ¼” circle and Corner Rounder punches,
dimensionals, Ribbon, Sticky Tape

1. Place a full sheet of card stock (cs) in paper cutter, (long side horizontal).
2. Score cs at 10”, 7”, 5”, and 2”.
3. Turn cs (long side vertical).
4. Score at 7” and 2”.
5. Cut excess off above the 9” score mark. Leave the rectangle, (next to the 1” scored side)
6. Flip cs again so 7” score mark is at the top of the paper cutter.
7. Slice cs at each score mark, cut from top to first horizontal score mark
8. Make a diagonal cut on each side of the 1” score line.
9. Fold all score marks.
10. Using the corner rounder punch, create the scalloped edge on the top flap.
11. Punch 2 holes in the flap using the HH rectangle punch. (or the HH 1/8” circle punch)
12. Fold bag together and mark where holes should line up on the bag.
13. Punch these marked holes with the HH rectangle punch.
14. Decorate Bag
15. Thread ribbon through holes on bag.
16. Attach side (inside the front flap that you cut), and bottom of bag (inside of the front flap) with sticky tape.
17. Pinch sides together, and thread ribbon through the flap.
18. Tie ribbon closed.

More RAKs

I have to say that I love receiving mail, well as long as it is not bills. This little RAK is from Melissa. I do not have any of the pretties yet, so this is oh so special. Melissa is in my Holiday card SWAP, and I received her cards this weekend -- She had these goodies for me. Aren't I lucky?!! BIG THANKS to Melissa :)

Reject #2

Here is reject number 2. Lesson learned -- use mono adhesive with prototypes -- not mono liquid glue .

I know this one is OK, but I am not happy with the colors. This is one of the triangle/trifold cards. I stamped the river rock DP with burgundy craft ink and then I embossed it with clear. And I liked the sleigh bells scene with the cracked glass technique, but the night of navy did not work with this card. I have been using the mono liquid glue, and once you stick the DP down it will not move. When you use the mono adhesive (in the tape dispense), you can rearrange things. So when you are not sure what you are going to do with a card do not use permanent adhesive.

It is probably a good idea that I am not doing this card. I think that the triangle/trifold cards are a little much for a swap. But then again maybe not. I'll try again.

RAK from Tina

Look what I received in the mail. It is a thank you RAK from Tina, (she won candy). Aren't these the cutest?

BIG THANKS to Tina :)

Extra Postage -- for US Residents

I read this information on Nancy's site this morning, and I thought I would pass it along.


The United States Postal Service is really cracking down on what they term as non-machinable mail. Save yourself some headaches, and purchase some $.17 stamps to add to your $.41 stamps, or purchase some of their $.58 stamps. You can purchase postage stamps online and get more information at www.usps.com.

Here are the USPS's characteristics for non-machinable mail. If you send anything through USPS with these characteristics, they require an additional $.17 postage.

* It is a square letter (minimum size for square envelopes is 5 x 5 inches).
* It is too rigid - does not bend easily
* It has clasps, string, buttons, or similar closure devices.
* It has an address parallel to the shorter dimension of the letter
* It contains items such as pens that cause the surface to be uneven
* The length divided by height is less than 1.3 or more than 2.5.

Basically all those ribbons, eyelets, brads, hardware, dimensional items that we put on our cards make it bumpy, creating an uneven surface. Therefore, USPS cannot process those envelopes through their machine.

Thought you might want to know!

More First Class Letter information

Dimensions
Minimum Height: 3-1/2", Minimum Length: 5"
Maximum Height: 6-1/8", Maximum Length: 11-1/2"
Minimum Thickness: 0.007", Maximum Thickness: 1/4"
A first class letter weighing over ONE ounce requires $.58 postage

Reject #1

I wanted to try a sketch by Tanis. She has her card in the October PaperCraft Magazine, (I think it is on page 46). You should click over to her site -- she is extremely talented!!

Well this did not turn out the way I wanted so scratch this one. OK reject number 1.

Stamps: Merry and Bright Inks: River Rock, Blue Bayou, Soft Sky, Wild Wasabi, Black Staz on Paper: Whisper White, Blue Bayou, Night of Navy, Hostess Scappin' Kit Extras: Paint brush, sponge

More Treat Bags

Well I should to be doing my Holiday Swap Cards this weekend. I have finally decided on 1 of them, but I am not sure about the other 2. I know that I am my own worst critic, but I am not happy with any of the cards that I have done so far. Then to make matters worse I keep seeing the cards that the other ladies are doing. Every one of them is FANTASTIC. It makes mine look so plain. Well hopefully I will come up with something today. Wish me luck.

So yesterday I created all these little bags. One of my ladies ordered Batty for you, so I HAD to create some bags to give her inspiration (right?). *** It is a good thing that I do my best work under pressure. I really need to do my SWAPs.*** I love these little bags. They will be perfect for Halloween candy. Remember I told you that I am going to sneak a business card in with the goodies -- I think that is OK, don't you? These bags would be perfect for teacher's presents, birthday party goodie bags, baby/wedding shower goodie bags, or any type of small present.

Well as I am typing this my little one came in and said that my bags are beautiful. I guess that means they are a hit. Do you see me smiling? He is so sweet sometimes.

Batty Bag

Here is another treat bag. I used the DP from last year, and Batty for you. I just noticed that this picture is blurry -- sorry about that.


Stamps: Batty for you. Inks: Lavender Lace, Basic Black Paper: Lavender Lace, Basic Black, 2006 -DP Extras: Black ribbon, Scallop, HH rectangle, 1" & 1 3/8" circle punches, sticky tape

Sketch Challenge 140

Yeah I did a sketch challenge. This is the challenge for this week, you can find it here.

I used the golf and paisley set sets again. The paisleys are highlighted with the white gel pen.

Stamps: The Back Nine, Polka Dot and Paisley Inks: Blue Bayou, Wild Wasabi, Soft Sky, River Rock, Blush Blossom, Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Going Grey, Timber Brown Staz On Paper: Blue Bayou, Chocolate Chip, Confetti Cream Extras: Twill tape, brown ribbon, Hodgepodge hardware, tool kit, white gel pen, dimensionals, paint brush, color pencils, distressing tool, corner rounder punch

Request

I have not had a blog roll on my side bar before. The reason behind that is because one of my Stamping Ladies was still on dial-up, and it took forever for my page to load for her. Well she now has a cable hook-up. YEAH!! This means that I will be updating my sidebar this weekend with my Blog Buddies. If you would like me to link to your site please send me a email. Please include your name and website address.

I would appreciate it if you would sign up for my email subscription while you are at it, (if you haven't already). If you sign up for the subscription you will receive an email when I publish to my site. I am not sure whether it will email you if I update my side bar -- so if it does you will probably receive a few extra emails between now and this weekend.

Thanks and BIG hugs and smiles,
Corie

Repeat

This has been repeat week, or should I say 2 weeks. Here is another Golf Card. I used the paisley stamp to make the background on this one.

Stamps: The Back Nine, It's Your Birthday, Polka Dot and Paisley Inks: Blue Bayou, Wild Wasabi, Soft Sky, River Rock, Blush Blossom, Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Going Grey, Timber Brown Staz On Paper: Confetti Cream, Chocolate Chip, Wild Wasabi, Blue Bayou Paper: Confetti Cream, Blue Bayou, Wild Wasabi Extras: Sponge, White gel pen, dimensionals, distressing tool

2 RAKs for me

This first card is a thank you RAK from Angel. I love the rustic look of this card -- So pretty.
This second card is a thank you RAK too, this one is from Nancy. I love all the layers on this one. It is absolutely gorgeous.

It's Official

I need to go to Be Happy rehab. I am addicted to these. I have been having a difficult time lately coming up with ideas, so I just go back to the smile flower. I think my dad's cards took a lot out of me this weekend.

I have also been working on 24 holiday swap cards. I have scrapped/recycled about 6 of them. I am doing 3 different ones and I am not pleased with what I have come up with so far. Oh well, I still have next weekend.

Stamps: Be Happy, Floral, Aida Inks: Purely Pomegranate, Groovy Guava Paper: Purely Pomegranate, Groovy Guava, Whisper White Extras: Dimensionals, Pearls, brads, spiral, small and large oval punches, ribbon

Check this out

I saw this on Dana's site and I had to share. Check this room out. I WANT ONE!!!!

Beep Beep Beep --- News Flash

Fall Frenzy
Join the frenzy this month with our Fall Frenzy promotion! Spend $30 in regular priced merchandise and qualify to purchase one of each of the six promotional stamp sets at 30% off! The featured stamps sets are:

Bitty Boos Too
Haunting Halloween
Thoroughly Thankful
Autumn Fest
Elementary Essentials
Stem Silhouettes*

Click here to see the promotional information. This promotional will run from September 1 through September 30, so do not wait.

Holiday Mini Catalog
The 2007 Holiday mini catalog is out. Click here is view it online. There are so many FANTASTIC items packed in the mini this year. You will find Designer Series Paper, Stamp sets, Chipboard, even Holiday Wrapping Paper, and so much more. You must see it to believe. One of the new things that SU! is trying out is die cute stamp sets. From now on ALL stamp sets in ALL mini catalogs will be cut for you. EXCITING don't you think?

World Card Making Day
Card makers join to celebrate the creativity of handmade cards. World Card Making Day celebrates the creativity of handmade cards and the personal connection that they create when given to others.

The official World Card Making Day, founded by Paper Crafts magazine, is held the first Saturday of October each year and allows a forum for card making enthusiasts of all skill levels and styles to come together and share their creative passion for the art of card making.

World Card Making Day allows me to share my love of card making with the community and my friends. One of the greatest joys in my life is to see someone discover their creativity and then share it with those they love. The best part is that from October 4-8, you can purchase any Simply Sent card kit for 20 percent off the regular price. This is the perfect time to purchase that kit that you have been eyeing.

Second Choice

This is the second card that I did with the Golf theme. This one will fit in a standard legal envelope. This looks like a simple card, but for some reason I had a tough time with it. I think it was the size. I did the image similar to the previous post. This time I used more pencils and the primsa blender pen.

The DP is from Eclectic Paperie it is called Phoebe. I am getting addicted to this site. They have EVERYTHING. There is a special going on this weekend 15% off your entire order (use coupon code IDO). So stop on over.

Request from Grandpa (my daddy)

My Dad called me this week at work, and scared the **** out of me. He NEVER calls me at work, maybe email, but he called my work cell phone. Well after making sure that he and my Mom were fine, I think my heart started beating normally. He was calling to ask me to make a Thank you card for a buddy of his. I was so floored, you see he isn't in to the card making stuff.

This is the first card that I have made for him. I figure I will make a few so he can have a selection to choose from. The card needed to have a Golf theme so I used the Back Nine retired set from SU!. I stamped the image with Timber Brown Staz on ink. Then I highlighted all the circles with the white pencil, and all the lines with the dark brown pencil. (Note: Thanks to Sarah for the pencils!!!) Then I water colored the rest of the image.

Well what do you think?

Stamps: The Back Nine, Riveting, Dotted, Linen Inks: Blue Bayou, Wild Wasabi, Soft Sky, River Rock, Blush Blossom, Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Going Grey, Timber Brown Staz On Paper: Confetti Cream, Chocolate Chip, Wild Wasabi, Blue Bayou Extras: Distressing tool, Corner Rounder, 1" & 1 1/4" circle punches, dimensionals, paint brush, primsacolor pencils

RAKs

Here are three RAKs that I received this week. The first one is from Paula, the middle one is from Julie, and the last one is from Melissa. Thanks Ladies.

ETA: I had Michelle instead of Melissa's name. I do not know why I do that, I have done it more than once. I think it's because in my head Melissa is the Pink Lady, and Melissa and Michelle both start with a M. See the card is pink, I knew in my head who I was talking about. So Sorry Melissa.

I also added links to their pages -- I cannot believe I forgot that too. Go check out their sites -- some very talented ladies here.