Story About A Girl

Christmas in July Pretties Wednesday

2009-07-15T05:01:00.002-05:00

I just couldn't help myself! I have been seeing so many Christmas in July creations and I was starting to feel left out! So, when Danielle challenged the Pretties Girls to use something around your house to make a background I got a wonderful idea...What if I made a Christmas Fund jar! Every November I freak out when I realize that Christmas is coming and we have no money saved. This will NOT happen this year and that is thanks to this little jar. I LOVED that I could use my Snowflake Kisses set again!!!
The rest of the jar looked a little plain so I used this super sweet sentiment from the Snowflake Kisses set to add a little something. I think I went a little too crazy on the ribbon but what's done is done. I am just experimenting and playing...that is art right? :)

Be sure to check out the rest of the Pretties Girls recycled creations...

BTW, thank you to everyone who took the time to comment about my rant on Monday. I have been feeling like stamping is forced and I am trying to figure out how to find my joy again. I guess everyone goes through this some time or another. Thanks for sticking with me as I figure out my way on this crazy journey. :)

and a huge Congratulations!!!! t0 Charmaine and the Ikach family in welcoming their newest member, beautiful Isabelle to the world. You can say your congratulations as well HERE.

Stamps: Snowflake Kisses (Paper Pretties)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Kraft, Bella Rose DSP (SU)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Brilliance White, Copics

Accessories: True Black Gingham Ribbon (PTI), Martha Stewart Snow, Red Brad

PMS Monday: Who's Got The Button?

2009-07-13T05:01:00.002-05:00

Hello strangers! Sorry I didn't post this weekend but I needed a BREAK! I feel a bit better now but I do have a tangent that I would love to get your opinion on (see the bottom of this post).

This week's PMS DT challenger is Dawn K whose challenge is to use buttons! I knew that some people would go button crazy (and they did-check THIS out) but I have been in a simple mood lately and went for just one button on my creation...

I am not too happy with how this layout turned out. I had a whole other idea in my head for the sentiment and the rub-on's but time just got away from me so here ya go. This is a picture of Todd and me on our one year anniversary AND very newly engaged. :) We were *ahem* "healthier" at the time but man I wish I could get my hair to do that again! LOL I also love the Ranch Lay's potato chips above our heads-classic! :)

This gorgeous sentiment is one of the newly released digi sentiments from Paper Makeup. I know this sentiment probably does not seem like it matches the picture but trust me-it does.

I would LOVE for you guys to play along this week. You do not have to use Paper Makeup to participate AND you never know when Katie will randomly pick a winner from the participants so why not play? Check out the PMS blog for all the deets.

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Another Christi tangent...

I have a question for you...do you ever get tired of your stamping style? I was browsing through my cards this weekend and realized that I am not happy with my style. I want to go more simple with my stamping and get more into scrapbooking but how do you change your style? It seems like no matter what I do I still stamp like me. Does that make sense or does that sound totally insane? Well, regardless I am tired of how I stamp and am ready to get out of this funk. When you get feelings like this what do you do? I haven't bought new supplies in months (literally) and I think this could be affecting my mood a lot. I have had people offer to send me things (thank you...you know who you are) and that does help but here I sit still funking. LOL *whew* Ok, just typing that made me feel a tad better and I can't wait to hear your comments. :) Tangent over...hahaha!!!

Have a good one!

Stamps: Something So Small Sentiment (Paper Makeup Stamps)

Paper: Basic Black

Ink: Inkjet Printer

Accessories: SAB Rub-On's (SU), Ghost Heart (Heidi Swapp), Button, Hemp Twine

There She Goes Is Twinkling

2009-07-10T05:01:00.001-05:00

Yes, I am {finally} posting my Twinkling Tuesday card!! Woot!! Well, it's not actually a card. Since I've been in a funk this past week (with my stamping as well) I thought I would do something a little outside the box and since I am a huge tea drinker I pulled out my Tea For Two and Tea For Two Special Blend sets and made this gorgeous creation...Isn't it yummy!! I actually made this for my soon-to-be-open Etsy shop (more on that later) but I have a feeling this is going to make its way to my kitchen. Isn't the sketch fab-u?!! The sketch is actually by Madelynn's little brother Jack! All of his sketches get better and better. The inside is just as yummy too...
Isn't it great?! I am in LOVE! I don't usually say that about my stuff but this one is so ME!! :) Be sure to check out the rest of the Twinkling Tuesday creations (the links to the team are on my sidebar) and if you want to check out the template I used you can find it HERE.

Today is Friday which also means the TSG Friday Night Chat AND this week's TSG challenge!! Jessica just got back from vacation yesterday so if they're up a little late no worries-they'll be there. :) I'll be off and on so I hope to see you there!!

That's it for me! TGIF my friends!!

Stamps: Tea For Two, Tea For Two Special Blend (There She Goes)

Paper: GP White, Baja Breeze, Walk in the Park DSP (SU)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Accessories: Aqua Satin Ribbon, Scalloped and Regular Circle Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Paper Piercer, Taylor's Tiny Twinklets, White Eyelets, Crop-A-Dile, 1 3/8 Circle Punch, Dimensionals

Pretties Thursday

2009-07-09T12:20:00.003-05:00

I am SO sorry that I am once again late with my card! I have been going through a lot of personal stuff lately and I don't know if you can tell or not but I've been pretty depressed. I don't know what my deal has been but I just haven't wanted to do anything. :( Today I am feeling better and am thinking that today is a new day so here I am smiling AND showing off my latest Pretties creation...This gorgeous sketch is this week's Pretties challenge on the forum! Danielle has some awesome sketches doesn't she? I haven't used my Simply Special set in awhile and I was in a floral mood today so I thought I would use my Euphoria dp. I paper pieced the water can and colored the rest of the image with my Copics. My circles are a combination of Nesties and a circle punch. I added some frilly ribbon and two little jewels in the corner and you've got one simple, floral card. :)

How about a Pretties update (taken from the main Paper Pretties page): Our move went smoothly and we are so glad to be in our new home! In the process we have been able to add some new items to the store. Some fun new colors of cardstock, some yummy new ribbon and some more of the marvy punches - ON SALE!!! Don't forget to check out our clearance section too for below cost items. When they're gone, they're gone. Happy Shopping!

Have a wonderful Thursday everyone and be sure to take some time out for yourself today. You deserve it! :)

Stamps: Simply Special and Made with Love (Paper Pretties)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Pretty In Pink, Baja Breeze, Euphoria DP (Basic Gray)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Accessories: Jewels, White Wired Taffeta Ribbon, Scallop Square and Circle Nestibilities/Cuttlebug, Circle Punch, Dimensionals

Pretties Wednesday Is Movin'!

2009-07-08T05:00:00.002-05:00

Two weeks ago Jana challenged the Pretties Girls to make a card that moves. Well, everyone is going to interpret that differently. I thought a moving card could be something that the card does..like a pop up card! So I searched through the SCS Resources section and found THIS tutorial and decided to give it a try...This is the front of my card. I wanted to keep this whole card simple and I really wanted to get my Look Who's Perky set inky since it's been a long time since it's seen ink. When you untie the ribbon there is a sentiment under it that says, "What's brewing?" Here's what you see when you open it up...
Isn't that cute?!! I haven't had a chance to put a sentiment in there because I'm waiting to figure out what I'm going to use this card for. :) This is such a fun technique! You all should definitely try it.

Be sure to check out the rest of the Pretties Girls and their moving creations...

I will be back with my late Twinkling Tuesday card! :)

Stamps: Look Who's Perky (Paper Pretties)

Paper: GP White, Chocolate Chip, Summer Sun, Chocolate Chip DSP (SU)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Accessories: Asst. Jewels, White Satin Ribbon, Circle Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Dimensionals

PMS July Blog Hop!!!

2009-07-07T08:01:00.001-05:00

ETA: I chose a random commenter to win this set and congratulations comment #9 which is Jane!!!! Katie will be contacting you soon about your digi stamp. Enjoy!!

I can't believe it's already time for the Paper Makeup July release! I am SO excited about this release AND today's blog hop! Why? Because today we are showing off stamps from our newest stamp designer: our very own Shaela Odd!! Woot!! This girl can rock some quotes!!

If this is your first stop you need to go back to PMS blog to start the hop AND to get all the letters you're going to need for this month's code!! This months blog hop code gets you 15% off your entire order and is good until Friday! :) If you came from Lisa M's blog then you're in the right place. My letter is E.

Now onto the eye candy...
Isn't that gorgeous?! This week's Mojo Monday challenge is the perfect sketch to show off a gorgeous quote like this. I printed out my stamp onto Neenah Solar White cardstock, cut it out with my Labels One Nestabilities and Cuttlebug, and sponged it using Tempting Turquoise ink. I used some Maya Roads chipboard and a large Heidi Swapp flower for embellies and painted them both with some Pixie Dust Blingz. The dp is my much-loved Pink Flamingo dsp and I added some black jewels to the corner to give it some glitz. My grandparents have an RV and are leaving today for a few months so I made this for them so they can have something pretty to look at while they're gone. :)

Your next stop on the hop is Dawn W!! Be sure to go all the way to the end of the hop to get your code AND to congratulate Shaela on her first release!!

Stamps: Plant Your Own Garden (Paper Makeup)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Select White (Papertrey), Basic Black, Pink Flaming DSP (SU)

Ink: Basic Black, Tempting Turquoise

Accessories: Lg Heidi Swapp Flower, Black Jewels, Labels One Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Maya Road Chipboard, Pixie Dust Blingz (Shimmerz), Dimensionals

PMS Monday Goes Hello Kitty Style

2009-07-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, you read that right! :) This week Meli Mitchell has issued an adorable inspiration challenge...a cute little Hello Kitty picture that you can see HERE. I drew my inspiration from the colors and the patterns...
A friend of mine is having a baby soon and even though this isn't a baby card I kept thinking of her the whole time I was making it so it's going to her asap. :) This sketch is the first July Viva la Verve challenge with a twist which was distressing. I know it's hard to see in the picture but I distressed the edges of the dp and sanded the dp to rough it up a bit. This little sweetie will be released in digi form tomorrow night at the Paper Makeup release party!!

Be sure to check out this week's challenge. It is a lot of fun and you never know when Katie might give away a prize to one of the participants. *wink* You do not have to have PMS stamps to participate but if you've got them why not use them? :)

Have a blessed Monday!!!!

Stamps: Shelby (Paper Makeup)

Paper: Select White (Papertrey Ink), Regal Rose, Two Scoops DP (Basic Gray)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Accessories: Green Gingham Ribbon, Bone Folder, Nail File, Dimensionals

Happy Birthday Charmaine!!!

2009-07-05T05:00:00.001-05:00

Yes, today the Pretties Girls are celebrating our girl Charmaine's birthday Prettie style with a Pretties Birthday Blog Hop!! If you came here from Jessica's blog then you're in the right place. If not, then hop over to Jodi's blog first and you'll eventually get back here. :)

I wasn't sure what to bring to the party but when I saw this I knew this is would be pefect...
Doesn't it look gorgeous? It just reminds me of Charmaine. I hope you like it sweetie! :) I drew inspiration from this yummy cake and made this sweet little card...

I am just in LOVE with Storytime Sophia! I think this image is perfect for birthday cards because, "Once upon a time there was a beautiful girl named Charmaine who had a birthday..." LOL Every part of our life tells a story right? I colored my Sophia with Copics and paired her with my yummy Pink Flamingo dp. This sketch is this week's Sketch Saturday challenge. I'm so sorry it's late Charmaine but I hope you like it and that you're having a wonderful birthday!!!!

Your next stop on the hop is Jackie P so hop on over there and be sure to go all the way through the hop to the end and wish Charmaine a very happy birthday!!!

Stamps: Storytime Sophia (Paper Pretties)
Paper: Neenah Solar White, Basic Black, Pink Flamingo DSP (SU)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Accessories: Silver Brads, Black Polka Dot Organza Ribbon, Slit Punch (SU), Dimensionals

PMS July Sneak Peek Day #3: Monsters!!!

2009-07-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

I am so sorry I didn't get to post yesterday. I wasn't lying when I said it was a rough week! :) LOL I hope you guys have enjoyed the sneak peeks this month. I am SUPER excited about this release. All-digi is the BEST way to get new stamps when you're on a super tight budget (like I am right now and I'm sure a lot of you are too).

Today's sneak peek is monsters and when we release new monsters we have to have sweet little Caliope...
OK, I don't know about you guys but what makes me say aww about this image is that marshmallow!! LOL Too stinkin' cute! This sketch is an old TE Cupcake sketch (fab!) and even though I really wanted to do a RED, WHITE, & BLUE card (for obvious reason! LOL) I just had to use a fun color combo and what better dp to show off some bright colors than my Bali Breeze dp.

Be sure to check out the PMS blog for sneak peeks for all the monsters being released this month AND to find out how you can win all the monsters for this release! Woot!

In honor of the 4th of July Katie and Shaela are giving away a free digital stamp! Click HERE to snag it!! Happy 4th everyone!!!!

Stamps: Camping Caliope (Paper Makeup)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Taken With Teal, Bali Breeze DSP (SU-Retired)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Accessories: Lg Scallop Square Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Silver Spiral Clip, Rose Polka Dot Satin Rbbon (American Crafts), White Grosgrain Ribbon, Pixie Dust Blingz (Shimmerz), Dimensionals

Pretties Thursday...Finally!!! :)

2009-07-02T16:20:00.003-05:00

Thank you so much for being patient with me. I do have a quick update on Bella. She has an infection that is treatable so she is going to be OK! Praise God!!! The bad news is that she can no longer breastfeed so I will be taking over the roll of Mama and feeding them with a syringe and special baby kitten formula. The doctor thinks they will all be fine but we might lose one or two and actually on the way home the runt passed away. :( So good news and bad news. I feel so relieved right now it is not even funny. Thank you all for thinking of me! Now if I can just catch up on some sleep I will feel tons better but I have a feeling I will have some night feedings so I'm not holding my breath.

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Have you guys seen Paper Pretties August Stamp of the Month? OMG is it me...well before I had kids anyway....
You might not know this about me but I am a huge bookworm. When I was growing up and all my friends were taking toys and dolls everywhere I was taking a book. I seriously taught myself how to read when I was four and have had a book in my hand since then. :) This is Story Time Sophia and is perfect for those bookworms in your life....
I thought I would test out my bookmark in the book I'm currently reading, Cure For the Common Life by Max Lucado (fantastic book, btw). Looks pretty good doesn't it? I really am going to use this for this book too. Currently I am using the dust jacket. LOL :)

If you are interested in signing up for our stamp club to receive the stamp automatically, you can go here for more details.

I am off to take care of my babies....

Stamps: Story Time Sophia (Paper Pretties)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Tangerine Tango

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Accessories: True Black Gingham Ribbon, Paper Piercer/Mat Stack, Long Scalloped Rectangles Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Silver Eyelet/Crop-A-Dile

PMS July Sneak Peek Day #1: Fairies!!!

2009-07-02T12:28:00.005-05:00

Thank you all for your wishes. My step-mom is going to take Bella to the vet but I am afraid that it might be too late for one of the babies and maybe even for her. I have been sick about it all morning. I am praying that it is not feline leukemia because if it is there is nothing that we can do and we'll lose Bella and her babies. Thank you all for praying for me and for being so patient for my post. I have only had four hours of sleep every night this week and it is also catching up to me so if my posts sound strange that is probably why! LOL

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I can't believe that it's already time for another Paper Makeup release!! This month we are doing things a little bit different and doing an all-digital release!! Woot!! For all of you rubbah lovers we will be taking a vote on which ones to rubberize but for this release we are all-digital!!

Today's sneak peeks are this months' fairies....
I would like to introduce Brandt. He is the first sign language fairy!! Isn't he the sweetest?!! I thought he fit perfect with this week's Mojo Monday sketch and this yummy Ambrosia dp from Basic Gray. I colored him with my Copics and cut him out with my Nestabilities. Some small silver brads finish off this sweet card.

Want a chance to get all of the digi fairies for free? Check out THIS post for your chance AND to see all of the fairies to be released.

I will be back later with my Pretties Thursday post and I promise it is worth the wait. :)

Stamps: Brandt (Paper Pretties)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Basic Black,Basic Gray, Tangerine Tango, Ambrosia DP (Basic Gray)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Tangerine Tango, Copics

Accessories: Square Nestabilities, True Black Grosgrain Ribbon (PTI), Small Silver Brads, Sponge Sweeper, Dimensionals

I Am So Sorry

2009-07-02T09:33:00.002-05:00

This has been one of the roughest weeks I've had in a long time. Last night we had a family emergency and didn't get home and in bed until almost 2am and my sister dropped off the boys at 6am. Bella is having some medical problems and we can't afford to get her into and she is rejecting the kittens and we think another one is dying. I have been crying all morning about it.

I am so sorry about my Pretties Thursday card and my Paper Makeup sneak peek for today. I have the images colored and will try to get them on a card and uploaded asap but I'm sure the boys are going to make that hard for me. Please pray for Bella and her kittens and please pray for me. I really need it today...

A Masked Pretties Wednesday

2009-07-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

Just a short and sweet post today since I am scheduling this and can hardly keep my eyes open! Two weeks ago a challenge went out to the Pretties Girls to use the masking technique. I seriously do not think I've ever done this challenge and hope I did it right...
I have always seen this stamp as a chorus line of ballerinas but to save time I did just two. LOL I will be back later with more details but while you're waiting check out the rest of the Pretties Girls and their masked creations...

Charmaine Ikach
Danielle Lounds
Frances Byrne
Jackie Pedro
Jackie Rakoski
Jana Weaver
Jessica Diedrich
Jessica Rone
Jodi Collins
Julie Masse

Have a fantastic Wednesday everyone!! Pray that I continue to hold onto my sanity while my nephews are here! LOL

Stamps: Ballerina Sophia (Paper Pretties)
Paper: Neenah Solar White, Basic Black, Real Red, Scarlet DP (Basic Gray)
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Basic Gray
Accessories: White Organdy Ribbon, Silver Brads, Sponge Sweeper, Spica Glitter Pen, Dimensionals

Wedding Pics & PMS

2009-06-29T05:00:00.000-05:00

OMG you guys what a crazy fun weekend I had!! All I have to say is vowel renewals rock! LOL My aunt and uncle vowed to put up with each other for another 25 years! Hahaha!!

I was in the wedding so I had someone else taking pictures for me and OMG did they not know how to take a picture. Almost every single one came out blurry! Grr... I did manage to snag a few good ones. Here is the happy couple with all four of the boys (my two are the ones on the right)...Out of about 20 pictures of the bridal party we {finally} got one good shot...
From the left that's me, my sister, my aunt, my mom, and one of my bestest friends Juanita.
Here was the main table which had the guest book and also a few wedding pictures taken June 30, 1984. My aunt made a beautiful bride then and now. :)

And of course I had to show off one of me and my boys. Before you look at this remember I was outside all day in 100+ degree heat...
And yes that is wedding cake I have in my hand but I had a small piece and I shared with the boys so it's all good.

So there you go. I had so much fun and am STILL exhausted! LOL

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Now for some PMS chit chat...

Because I was helping with the wedding I didn't get a chance to get this week's technique challenge done but that doesn't mean that you don't have to! This week's challenge is the Faux Silk technique which is super easy and has a gorgeous effect. Click HERE to find out all the details AND to upload your creations to Mr. Linky!! You never know when we might give out a prize to one of the participants!!

Are you guys hungry for some PMS blog candy? Dawn Barrett has some yummy PMS blog candy on her blog right now! All you have to do is make a PMS card using any challenge OR any PMS challenge using any stamp you want. Easy!! The contest ends tomorrow so click HERE to find out all the deets and get to stampin'!

Bloom TSG Blog Hop

2009-06-26T23:00:00.000-05:00

Today is Day #2 of the There She Goes June release sneak peeks and today we are showing off the super gorgeous Bloom set. If this is your first stop you need to head to Jessica's blog to start the hop. If you came from Becky's blog then you're in the right place. :)

Today my aunt and uncle are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows. Todd and me are honored to be standing up with them as they renew their love for each other. Anyone that knows my aunt knows that her signature color in pink so I thought I would make them a little something to celebrate their silver anniversary... I was so bummed that I did not have the Copics to match this dp but I think this works. I am in LOVE with this dp and this set really compliments it. Bloom is the most gorgeous floral set. You will seriously flip out. I squealed when I saw it for the first time and know that it is definitely in my top five favorite TSG sets. I hope my aunt and uncle like it and yes I will show pictures from the wedding asap. :) This gorgeous sketch is another one of the Verve release sketches (awesome!!).

Your next stop on the hop is Faith's blog which I am {sure} is another stunning creation.

Would you like to win this set? All you have to do is leave a comment on all of the Trendsetter's Bloom blog posts, then come back to THIS blog post and add your name to the Mr. Linky at the bottom of the post. There will be one winner chosen at random and will be announced on Jessica's blog on Sunday 6-28-09. Readers have until Saturday midnight Eastern time to enter in this challenge and the winner will receive a complimentary set of Bloom. Who doesn't love free rubbah?!! :) If you get lost in the hop I have a list of all the Trendsetters at the bottom of this post. Good luck and enjoy the rest of the hop!!

Jessica - http://jessica-thereshegoes.blogspot.com/

Becky - http://www.lakeshorestamper.com/

Christi - http://cici510.blogspot.com/

Faith - http://stampinwithmarkiesmom.blogspot.com/

Holly - http://toyzhaven.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/

Jessie- http://canyousayaddictedtostamps.blogspot.com/

Joanne - http://inkyoceangazer.blogspot.com/

Jodi - http://stampingalatte.blogspot.com/

Julie - http://stampsandtaxes.blogspot.com/

Maki - http://makinkstudio.blogspot.com/

Sandra- http://paperfuntastics.blogspot.com/

Silke - http://silkeledlow.blogspot.com/

Stamps: Bloom (There She Goes)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Pink Pirouette, Paris Blossom DP (Bo Bunny)

Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa, Copics

Accessories: Asst. Pink Jewels, Scalloped and Regular Circle Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Paper Piercer/Mat Stack, Purely Pomegranate Satin Ribbon, Dimensionals

Happy Birthday Katie!!!!

2009-06-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

I am the {worst} best friend in the world. Today is my BFF Katie's birthday (the PMS queen!)and I had planned to show off this gorgeous creation but life got in the way and I can't get it posted in time BUT I promise I will make it up to you and hope that this ties you over....

Katie, I hope you have a fantastic day, that you know just how loved you are, that the boys are good for you, and that Greg spoils you rotten! LOL *Mwah*

Life's A Beach TSG Blog Hop!

2009-06-25T23:00:00.001-05:00

Today is Day #1 of the There She Goes June release sneak peeks and today we are showing off the super fun Life's A Beach set. If this is your first stop you need to head to Jessica's blog to start the hop. If you came from Becky's blog then you're in the right place. :) Yes, this is Eric right before we took him swimming for the first time. His grandmother spoiled him rotten and even bought him swim shoes! LOL I was VERY pregnant with Dylan (like a few weeks away from him being born) and it's amazing that Eric was this young when he was born.

Life's A Beach is a super fun set with drinks, a tiki torch, and fun sentiments like, "Let's go nuts!" and "It's 5 o'clock somewhere". I wanted to show that this more adult set could work with a younger audience too. :) The sketch was inspired by THIS layout which I fell in love with while browsing the SCS gallery.

Your next stop on the hop is Faith's blog which I am {sure} is not to disappoint.

Would you like to win this set? All you have to do is leave a comment on all of the Trendsetter's Life's A Beach blog posts, then come back to THIS blog post and add your name to the Mr. Linky at the bottom of the post. There will be one winner chosen at random and will be announced on Jessica's blog on Sunday 6-28-09. Readers have until Saturday midnight Eastern time to enter in this challenge and the winner will receive a complimentary set of Life's A Beach. Who doesn't love free rubbah?!! :) If you get lost in the hop I have a list of all the Trendsetters at the bottom of this post. Good luck and enjoy the rest of the hop!!

Trendsetters
Jessica- http://jessica-thereshegoes.blogspot.com/2009/06/lifes-beach-blog-hop-challenge.html
Becky- http://www.lakeshorestamper.com/2009/06/tsg-sneak-peek.html
Christi- http://cici510.blogspot.com/2009/06/lifes-beach-tsg-blog-hop.html
Faith- http://stampinwithmarkiesmom.blogspot.com/search/label/There%20She%20Goes%20Sneak%20Peek
Holly- http://toyzhaven.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/2009/06/25/a-sneaky-hop/
Jessie- http://canyousayaddictedtostamps.blogspot.com/2009/06/lifes-beach-tsg-blog-hop.html
Joanne- http://inkyoceangazer.blogspot.com/2009/06/tsg-sneak-peek-lifes-beach.html
Jodi- http://stampingalatte.blogspot.com/2009/06/there-she-goes-sneek-peaks-begin.html
Julie- http://stampsandtaxes.blogspot.com/2009/06/tsg11-lifes-beach.html
Maki- http://makinkstudio.blogspot.com/2009/06/tsg-sneak-peek-lifes-beach.html
Sandra- http://paperfuntastics.blogspot.com/2009/06/lifes-beach-blog-hop.html
Silke- http://silkeledlow.blogspot.com/2009/06/tsg-sneak-peek-day-1-plus-bonus-card.html

Stamps: Life's A Beach (There She Goes)
Paper: Select White (Papertrey Ink), Tempting Turquoise, Pink Flamingo DSP (SU)
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics
Accessories: Large White Brads, Paper Piercer/Mat Stack, Scallop Border Punch (SU), Large Blue Button, Asst. White Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals

Em's Bella Birthday Blog Hop!!

2009-06-25T10:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the Birthday Blog Skip, Hop & Dance sponsored by Stamping Bella! If my blog is your first stop you can CLICK HERE to start from the beginning at Bloggabella. If you came from Michele's blog then you're in the right place. :)

I have been a fan of Stamping Bella since I first started stamping in 2007. Over the past few years she has grown and branched out in so many ways it's not even funny. It has really been amazing to watch. I had thought about celebrating Em's birthday with a birthday Bella but I instead went for a Ketto that would show off what a {queen} Em really is...

Sadly I don't own any Kettos {yet} but my girl Shannan was sweet enough to stamp out a few for me and OMG am I in LOVE!!! I had to use pink because when I think pink I think Em. :) I colored Maisy with Copics, sponged around her with Close to Cocoa ink, and used a scalloped square Nestie to frame her. I sponged around the Two Scoops dp as well to really show off this fabulous Verve sketch. Cocoa satin ribbon, a pink button, and Tiny Twinklets finish off this little cutie. I also have my little Maisy all sparkled up with my Spica glitter pen (I know it's hard to see in the pic but this baby shines IRL).

Happy Birthday Em!!!! I hope you have a {wonderful} day and that all your birthday wishes come true!! :)

Thanks so much for stopping by! Now it's time to hop on over to Anita's blog and see her fabulous Birthday Bella creation!! Have a great day!

P.S.-How about a prize? In addition to the fabulous eye candy, we have decided to hide a prize somewhere along the hop! One pre-selected blogger will draw a random winner from the comments on her post, and the winner will receive a $40 Gift Voucher to Stamping Bella!!! The fun part is...we're not telling you who it is! So as you hop, make sure you leave comments on every post so you have a chance to win!! We will announce the winner on Monday in the Splitcoast forum. MWAH!

Stamps: Maisy Ketto (Stamping Bella)
Paper: Neenah Solar White, Chocolate Chip, Two Scoops DSP (Basic Gray)
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Copics
Accessories: Taylor's Tiny Twinklets, Spica Glitter Pen, Sponge Sweeper, Cocoa Satin Ribbon, Pink Button, Scallop Square Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Dimensionals

Pretties Thursday

2009-06-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

Did you guys see this week's sketch challenge on SCS? I fell in love....Since I have zilch when it comes to stamping money (which means no new goodies for awhile) I am taking this time to utilize what is in my stash and one of the places I need to dig into more often is my scrap pile. I found these two pieces of dp and thought they fit together pretty well AND were both scraps that needed a home. :) Since the dp {screams} love I thought Sealed with a Kiss was perfect! I colored my couple with Copics and cut them out using my Labels Two Nestabilities and Cuttlebug. I sponged the edges of the dp with Close to Cocoa ink to give it a little depth, added some Kaisercrafts Blush pearls and some yummy cocoa satin ribbon that I got from my girl Katie and you've got one romantic card. :)

Did you hear that Paper Pretties is moving? That's right! Christie and the fam have officially moved as of yesterday!! What does that mean for you? Well, how about select clearance items up to 75% off?!! Check out the goodies HERE. Happy shopping!

Stamps: Sealed with a Kiss (Paper Pretties)

Paper: Neenah Solar White, Pink Pirouette, DP (Unknown)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Close To Cocoa, Copics

Accessories: Kaisercraft Blush Pearls, Cocoa Satin Ribbon, Labels Two Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Dimensionals

Pretties Wednesday

2009-06-24T05:00:00.001-05:00

Two weeks ago Julie challenged the Pretties Girls to use animals on their cards. I have been {loving} Snowflake lately and thought this was the perfect time to use him again! :) I {loved} this week's color challenge on SCS...such a bright and fun summer combo that fit perfect with my image. I colored Snowflake with Copics and added some shimmer to the waves with my Spica glitter pen {I know you can't see it in the pic but it's there I promise}. This awesome sketch is one of Verve's release sketch challenges {I seriously love Julee's sketches}.

Be sure to check out the rest of the Pretties Girls animal creations...

Charmaine Ikach
Danielle Lounds
Frances Byrne
Jackie Pedro
Jackie Rakoski
Jana Weaver
Jessica Diedrich
Jessica Rone
Jodi Collins
Julie Masse

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Thanks for all the get well wishes. I don't know what my deal has been. I'll be feeling fine and then it's like I get this wave of nausea and horrible dizziness. It eventually goes away but when it hits it hits hard. I wish I could afford to see a doctor about it but until then I'm trying to watch what I eat, drinking plenty of water, and making sure that I rest. Oh, and don't say that I'm pregnant because I'm NOT. LOL I am in a case study with my dermatologist and I go in weekly for a blood and pregnancy test and as of last Thursday I am not pregnant. I wonder if it's the case drug that is doing this to me.... Wow....I never thought about that. I guess I'll be making a phone call today! LOL

Stamps: Surfs Up (Paper Pretties)
Paper: Neenah Solar White, Pacific Point, Summer Sun, Ski Slope DSP (SU)
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Tangerine Tango, Copics, Spica Glitter Pen
Accessories: Labels Three Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Pacific Point Striped Ribbon, Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals

Twinkling Tuesday

2009-06-23T05:00:00.001-05:00

Quick post today...I got whatever sick the boys had. Yuck! I am really hoping this is a 24-hour bug. I hate being sick in the summer. :( I didn't want you guys to go without some eye candy today so I thought I would show off my card for this week's Mojo Monday challenge and this week's Twinkling Tuesday challenge which in bling.... I'll come back later and give you some more details but I promise that there is shimmer all over this card (it's just hard to photograph). I am off to {hopefully} sleep these sickies off.

Monday, Monday...

2009-06-22T10:18:00.006-05:00

How was every one's Father's Day? Mine was...strange. LOL It started off great! Check out this picture I took of my boys yesterday morning...I love those boys more than anything in the world. :) They are all such goobers too! Well, not long after I took this picture Todd got super sick which put a huge damper on our day. :( Then the boys started getting sick... So, needless to say it was a strange Father's Day but I still took the time to tell Todd how thankful I am of him and he loved his card. :)

I am telling you all this because I didn't get a chance to play in this week's Paper Makeup challenge. Pooh! BUT I do have the sketch for you right here... ...and you can check out some {fantastic} design team creations HERE. I hope you all can play along with us this week. I am going to try but it depends on the kiddos. Gotta love summer colds...NOT! LOL

TSG's Changing of the Season Sale!!!

2009-06-21T04:00:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it's already time for another There She Goes "Changing of the Season" sale? Me either!! Today I am showing off one of the sets that is on sale You're So Punny... Isn't that little piggie the cutest?! This is for yesterday's Inspiration Challenge on SCS which was this adorable store called Bugaloo. I saw THESE little cuties and drew my inspiration both from the colors and the pig. The sketch is this week's Sketch For You To Try {another awesome one}.

There are actually five sets total that are on sale: A-Z and 1,2,3; Cupcake Mix & Match, You're So Punny, Tastes Like Chicken, and Flowers of Happiness...and all of these sets are must-haves in my opinion. :) The sale runs from today through Thursday and the sales prices are only good while supplies last so get over there and get your hands on some rubbah! :)

If you would like to see more samples using the sets for sale please check out the There She Goes blog for more eye candy.

Stamps: You're So Punny (There She Goes)
Paper: Select White (PTI), Basic Black, Pretty in Pink, Rose Red DSP (SU)
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics
Accessories: Black Polka Dot Taffeta Ribbon, Square Scallop and Regular Circle Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Kaiser Pearls, Dimensionals

TSG10 Take One...

2009-06-20T09:36:00.003-05:00

Have you guys checked out this week's There She Goes challenge? I {love} it!!! BUT...I should have read {all} the instructions before I went to work on it... The main challenge is to shadow stamp (where you stamp the image twice to give it a shadow effect) and {optional} to make a gift card holder. Do you see anything missing on my gift card holder? Yes...the shadow stamping! LOL I didn't realize until after I made it so I thought, "OK, I can just do some shadow stamping on the inside! {Brilliant!} Yes, it was a good idea until I went to stamp the inside and my stamp slipped and fell on the card.... SO, needless to stay it's back to the ol' drawing board for the challenge BUT I do love how {yummy} the front it turned out! I don't use my Cupcake Mix & Match set enough. :)

The sketch is this week's sketch challenge on SCS and this {gorgeous} color combo is this week's Color Throwdown challenge. Awesome color combo isn't it? I think Tempting Turquoise is fastly becoming my go-to color this summer. :)

We would love for all of you to play along. Just head to the TSG forum and check out the challenge HERE!

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Everyone woke up this morning with sore throats and horrible coughs. Fun! There is nothing worse than a summer cold. To top it all off they called Todd in to work this morning so he's going to be on the 90+ degree heat. I have medicated everyone, put the boys in front of a movie, and I'm about to lay back down myself. I am hoping that we can kick this early and fast. If my TSG10: Take Two is a little late you'll know why. :)

Stamps: Cupcake Mix & Match (There She Goes)

Paper: GP White, Tempting Turquoise, Walk in the Park DSP (SU)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Pretty In Pink, Copics

Accessories: Kiwi Polka Dot Satin Ribbon (American Crafts), White Brads, Large Scallop Square Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Sponge Sweeper, Dimensionals

Stamp Something Has PMS!

2009-06-19T12:41:00.003-05:00

That's right! Paper Makeup is Stamp Somethings sponsor and we have a monochromatic color challenge for you: black, gray, white, and one other color of your choice. I love these challenges because you can make one gorgeous color really pop... ...and I chose Brocade Blue. :) This sketch is this week's Technostamper's Monday Lunchtime Sketch which is a fun one! Isn't Baby Gabe adorable? I am in LOVE with this stamp...makes me think of how much fun my boys have in the tub.

There are {FOUR} PMS stamps being given away on the Stamp Something blog so I hope you all will play along! For more inspiration, check out more DT samples HERE.

We are also having a fun Friday chat on the Paper Makeup forum which you can check out HERE. I hope you all can stop by and chat. It will be going on all day so stop in anytime! :)

Stamps: Baby Gabe in the Tub (Paper Makeup)
Paper: GP White, Basic Black, Brocade Blue DP (SU)
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics
Accessories: Large Scallop and Regular Circle Nestabilities/Cuttlebug, Black Polka Dot Taffeta Ribbon, Black Taffeta Ribbon, Silver Brads, Liquid Applique/Heat Gun, Dimensionals