Sunday Scoop

I must start by saying that I almost did not make it to the Stampin Up regional show because I could not find the room they were in. The Houston George R Brown convention center is huge and I have been there tons of times but for some reason I had the hardest time finding the area they were presenting at. It was on the third floor in the back area. Luckily I had a nice gentlemen help me find it. Aside from that mishap I had a WONDERFUL time at the Stampin' Up regional. I learn tons of great ideas on how to improve my business and other great techniques I had never seen before. I also met some wonderful ladies that really made the event more enjoyable. I gave them my blog site so hopefully they will keep in touch that way. These are the projects we did using the new set they gave us when we arrived. I love it!! Its called Double Line Doodles. I will post a picture soon. Also keep checking in since I learned a cool folding wallet template that is so cute. I will have a tutorial soon. Well I just wanted to show you guys the projects we did and give you some scoop on how the event went. Hopefully they will come to Houston again since it was a blast. Below are some pictures of examples they brought.

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Fun Friday

Before I go on my way to the Houston Stampin' Up seminar *smile* I wanted to leave you guys with a new post and card. This is another one of the sets I got this week from the mini catalog. It is also a great buy because you can't go wrong with it. It's so easy to make a cute card. I mean who doesn't like hot chocolate or a latte?? For this card I embossed the latte steam with silver embossing powder. I cut out the heart and added some beads and put it on dimensions on top of the coffee cup. I also used the Flannel background on the Blush Blossom card stock because I always relate hot chocolate with a warm flannel blanket. It just makes it more cozy. I added some brads and some hodgepodge. I hung a tag with the sentiment on the hardware with hemp cord. I also used some chocolate patterned paper and stamped the coffee beans on it. I matted it on SU Chocolate Chip. I used some argyle ribbon I bought at Micheal's for a dollar. I am not sure if it matches completely but I wanted to use it. I also used a file folder tab in which I put "a latte" on it. I finished it off with some paper piercing. Well aside from that I also wanted to wish you guys a wonderful weekend !!!

"Tune" In Thursday

There is so much to talk about today!! Let me start with my "tunes" I have added. I hope everyone enjoys them. If you guys have any request just let me know. I must add that the Lifehouse "Everything" was DH's and my wedding song *smile* Now to the the card. I know that I am a little late in getting them but yesterday I got my new Stampin' Up order with my "Carte Postale." I have been dying to order it after seeing such great cards made with it on the SCS site. For the color inspiration I went to the SCS color challenge. I used Chocolate Chip, Cool Caribbean, and Blush Blossom. I added some yummy "Urban Couture" Basic Grey paper that matched the theme and colors perfectly. I then added a designer brad to the main motif. I did some paper piercing and sponging to finish it off. I just love how easy it is to make a great card with this set. Lastly I am so excited because tomorrow I am going to the Stampin' Up convention here in Houston!!! I can hardly wait I don't think I am going to sleep tonight *giggle* I will take lots of pictures and post them up when I get back.

What A Suprise Wednesday

Last night I was looking through all my Micheal dollar stamps when I realized that the cute "Sweetie" cupcake stamp has a small cupcake stamp to match. I bought them in different occasions without even knowing they were the same but in different sizes. *surprise* So that prompted me to make a card with them using the small cupcake as a background for the larger one. I also used some cute BIG bracket stickers to emphasize the main image. I added some stickles on the big and small cupcakes. I added some yummy brads and cute candy paper. I tied some purple organza ribbon and hung a circle heart tag from it. I did some paper piercing and sponged the edges. This card reminds me of a candy store... *yummy*

Questions Answered

First, I want to say that I am finally happy with my banner. Now I want to answer some questions people have been asking about where I got the images for it. I went to istockphoto.com where you pay a small fee to browse there HUGE collection of graphics. It is well worth the price. I paid one dollar for the current image I used on the banner. After I downloaded the image I liked I went to Tutorials by Jennifer where she gives easy step by step instructions on how to create a banner using photoshop. If you guys have any other questions please leave a comment and I will try to help.

Too Cute Tuesday

I finally got around to doing an altered picture frame project. I have seen many beautiful examples on the SCS site and I have always wanted to give one a try. I bought this frame at the dollar store...yippee..with the intentions of altering it. I knew I wanted to make a little boys frame for my son's room. I have had this stash of adorable Basic Grey paper for a while and have been dying to find a great use for it. I pulled out the pack of papers for this project and settled on this cute space ship pattern. I then adhered it with ModgePodge and once it dried I sanded it down. The I found these cute BIG photo corner stickers. I stuck them on some paper and then cut them out. After they were cut I put dimesionals on the back and popped them up on the frame. Then I added some ribbon to the side of the frame and added a cute tag with his name on it. Picking the pictures to use was easy since I have had these three snapshots of a recent vacation ready to be framed. Before I put them in the frame I added some cute sentiment rub-ons directly to the pictures. Then I put it all together and came up with a adorable frame for my son's room. After seeing how fun this was to make I am already on the lookout for some more frames to alter. You can really customize them to fit in any area of your home and to display all those cute pictures.

Hipp-Hippo Ray Its Friday!!

Guess what I got in the mail yesterday. My order of High Hopes stamps!!! They are so adorable. This hippo is my FAV so I had to make a cute girly card last night with it. I stamped the image with Stazon and watercolored the image on watercolor paper. I then added some stickles to her tutu and bow. Then I stamped my SU paisley background on Regal Rose cardstock and sponged the edges. I added some brads on each corner and matted it on Sahara Sand cardstock. Then I found this cute SEI tag and matted it on Chocolate Chip. I added a bow on the top. Then I popped the main image on dimesionals and finished it off with some paper piercing. I love the way the layout turned out. I am going to have to use it more often. Well aside from that I also wanted to wish everyone a great weekend!!!

Happy Valentine's Day

First I want to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!! Then I want to say that I am totally in love with this adorable Whipper Snapper stamp. Its so sweet. I also love the SU Paisley set. I used SU Bordering Blue, Real Red, and Chocolate Chip. I watercolored the main image and added some stickles. I did some paper piercing and added a vellum tag with the word "love" stamped on it. To finish it off I added some heart punches in the middle of the paisleys.

Too Cute Tuesday

I am so ready for Valentine's Day to arrive. I hope the hubby has something nice and romantic planned this year since I think I have mentioned it about 1,000 times *smile* Today I have been at the flower shop all day so I am tired but I wanted to make some cards to sell for walk in customers. (this post was made Monday night) I have been wanting to use my new Whipper Snapper heart mouse stamp and I finally found some time. I watercolored the image and added some stickles on the heart and the mouse's ear. The I layered it on some Chocolate chip SU cardstock and added some brads on the four corners. Then I used my SU On the Spot background which I stamped on Pale Plum cardstock. I also matted it on Choc Chip. Then I tied some ribbon and added a heart clip. I popped the main image on dimensions and sponged the edges. I will probably be gone all day today to so I will be making posts at night.

Drum Roll Please!!

We have a winner!! Tami Moreno was picked out by my son Josh. Yippeee!! Just send me your address at anammontoya@hotmail.com

In other news I am about to pass out from making Valentine's Day gift baskets for my mother- in-law's flower shop. She brought over tons of plants and ivy and wicker baskets to fill with lotions, candles, candy, and teddy bears. It was fun at first but after the twentieth basket I was over the excitement.

This is just half of the baskets

I also wanted to ask if anyone has any tips on how to paste your banner in your HTML blogger template. I am about to pull my hair out with frustration. errrrrr Thanks Ana

Please excuse my header. I am trying out new images but it will take me a while to get it right:( Not great with HTML. I will let you guys know when I am happy with the results.

Friday Blog Candy

There is so much to celebrate today on Inkastamp!! He have hit the 35,000 hits mark and Valentine's Day is around the corner!! Yippee!! I think all this excitement needs some blog candy action. I just love giving away stamps and reading all the comments you guys leave. I really appreciate the time you take out to read my blog. For this giveaway all you have to do is leave a comment telling me what your favorite gift/flower for Valentine's Day is. I will start it out by saying my favorite flower to receive on V-day are Peonies. I also love to go out to eat Sushi with my hubby. Don't forget to leave your name. The winner will be announced Saturday at 9:00p.m Good Luck and Happy Weekend

Flower Power Thursday

Aside from photography and stamping I also really enjoy flower arranging. My mother-in-law has a flower shop and I often go and help her design. Since Valentine's Day is coming we have been busy getting everything ready for the busiest day of the year. Its crazy!!! but so much fun. Since I have had flowers on my mind I wanted to stamp a card with flowers. For this card I used Stampin Up Bodacious Bouquet and Paisley Background. I cut out all the flowers and made some of their petals stick out with dimensions. I also put some stickles in the flower centers. I also used some yummy pattern paper and tied ribbon around it. I used some chipboard to mount my sentiment and hung it from the ribbon. I finished it off with some faux stitching and sponging of the edges.

Make sure to be on the lookout for postings on great ideas for flower arranging and creative ways to display them for Valentine's Day.

Too Cute Tuesday

Hello Everyone!! I just want to start off by thanking everyone who posted such sweet and inspirational comments about my grandma. It really helped me cheer up reading through all of them. I dedicate the post and pictures to everyone's grandmas that have touched our hearts forever.

Well this weekend was pretty crazy. I had so much going on like getting the house ready for my husband's Super Bowl party. He has one every year and all his buddies that he has not seen the whole year come over. It was loud and crazy but he had a great time. After the mayhem this weekend I finally got a chance to stamp. I guess having so many boys around made me want to stamp a non-girly card....hehehe I bought this cute Whipper Snapper Bulldog stamp and have yet to use it. We have two bulldogs of our own which is why I had to buy this stamp. I water colored the bulldog and added some crystal effects to the patches and stickles to his collar. I matted it on SU bravo burgundy and so saffron. I then cute up some cute dog pattern paper and also matted it on so saffron. I punched holes on some twill and added a buckle to resemble a dog collar. I added a heart charm for a tag. Then I used some dog paw rub-ons and stamped "genuine" from the SU hostess set Around the Block. I think it came out pretty cute.

I know that this blog is all about cards and crafts but I thought since I consider everyone who reads my blog friends I thought I would share another hobby and a personal story that goes with it. Today marks a year since my grandmother died. Although I am sad thinking about her absence I also want to celebrate her life.

She was a women of strength, love, and above all dignity. She raised 14 children with the smallest of all necessities yet they all grew up to be responsible and respectable people. She was a better women than I will ever be.

Along with paper crafts I love photography. I am no expert but I love capturing special moments so they can always be remembered. I am still learning and trying to improve my work but I believe "practice is the best of all instructors"

These pictures were taken a few weeks before she passed. There is a remarkable story behind them that is worth sharing. In the months before these pictures grandma was slowly declining in health and her memory cloudier than ever. We all knew the inevitable was coming so as a family we all visited her as much as possible. One day she woke up extremely alert and decided she wanted to make everyone her famous chicken soup. Much to our surprise she knew everyone's name and she started to reminisce about the past. She was happy and it was as if she was years younger. She would get up without any help and start chopping veggies. She also requested to have a priest come and give her communion. So after making many phone calls all the family (we are talking about LOTS of people) along with the priest came over to have lunch. It was the strangest thing, its as if the soup had no end and even though she made one pot there was enough for ALL of us to share. Then we all prayed and she was given communion. I truly believe that was grandma's final goodbye to everyone because the next day her shine and strength went away and she did not even remember the gathering we had. She died peacefully a few weeks later but I know her spirit still lives on.

I call this one "The Hands Of Time"

Whatever Goes Wednesday

Today I was looking through some cards and found this Love Birds card. I never uploaded it because I didn't think it came out to good but after looking at it again I thought it had some character. It is another one of those cute images from the Olive You set. I also used the paisley background which I stamped in Regal Rose ink onto the Regal Rose card stock. I also used SU Bravo Burgundy and Apricot Appeal. I distressed the edges and tied some Burgundy organza ribbon around the main image. I also used some cute flower tree pattern paper. To finish it off I sponged the edges and did some paper piercing along the top. Btw did you guys watch American Idol? It was hilarious can't wait till tonight's episode.

Mail Out Monday

Happy Monday!! Hope everyone had a great weekend. So I finally finished this card which I was working on the whole week. I had to work on it whenever I got a chance since I had tons of things going on this weekend. I just had to make another card using my favorite stamp set since it was already out from the last card I made. I got the inspiration for the colors from the SCS site. The Limited Supplies challenge this week is a contest with a prize!! Yippeee...they only ask that you use black and white with one extra color of your choice. For this card I used some of my yummy black and white paisley paper and SU Real Red, Basic Black, and Whisper White. I also used some white satin and black and white polka dot ribbon. I added some red feather fibers and hung a musical note clip from the ribbon. I added some silver brads on the side and filled in the heart with red stickles. It really shines and sparkles. Although it took forever to finish I had a great time making it. You can never go wrong with black and white!!

Fun Friday

Ok, I must admit this set is not a "neglected" set. I just love it!! I think I will take a break from my resolution....*hehehe* and use the fun stamp sets. The set is SU "Olive You". I stamped the cute little bug and then pressed the paper in my watermark pad and covered it with Irridensent Ice EP. I matted it using my squared scalloped punch on Regal Rose and Close to Cocoa card stock. I added some fun patterned paper and used some twill ribbon tied around a buckle. I hung the sentiment "Love Bug" on the hardware using cord. Other papers used are SU Certain Celery and Whisper White. So before I go back and continue my resolution I might have to make a "few" more cards with my "fun" sets. I guess that way of thinking is why my weight loss resolution isn't working..*hehehe* Have a great weekend from Inkastamp!!!

Too Cute Thursday

Here goes another neglected stamp set card. I actually bought this SU Sweet Shapes set because I saw some awesome cards made on the SCS site with it. But once I got it I played with it and I just could not get it to look like the beautiful cards on SCS. Frustrated I put it away to collect dust *frown* Last night I pulled it back out and was determined to make a cute card with it. I am pleased with how it came out. I watercolored the main images and popped them out. I sponged the edges with certain celery and added some stickles on the butterflies. I matted it with SU Marigold cardstock and did some faux stitching around both of them. Then I stamped the SU Vintage Violet cardstock with my Paisley background and sponged the edges. I added some hardware and ribbon to finish it off. I am really liking this resolution !! Just a few more sets and I have fulfilled it...now if only my weight loss resolution was that easy!!

Tuesday Truffles

I am so proud of myself. One of my stamping "resolutions" is to make cards using stamp sets I have never or seldom used before. I have a few of those sets that just sit on my shelf and never see the light of day *Smile* I mean I did buy them for a reason...I think*hehe*..so why not use them!! For this card I used SU Oh So Sweet which has been "Oh So Lonely"hehehe. On the truffles I popped the wrapper on dimensions and added some stickles on the top. I used some fun patterned paper and SU cardstock in the colors Regal Rose, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, and Apricot Appeal. I added tons of ribbon in all different colors and hung a circle clip on them. I added some brads and sponged the edges. After making this card I think I will be using this set more often. It really is "Oh So Sweet."

I've been Tagged

I've been tagged! by Jen70 at http://stamping-therapy.blogspot.com So here goes, a little ABC list to help you get to know me better!
A-Available or Taken: Taken
B-Best Friend: My husband and my 2 year old son
C-Cake or Pie: Wow..I'm a huge sweets fan so both..
D-Drink of Choice: Iced Tea or Diet Coke with Lime
E-Essential Item You Use Everyday: my stamps, computer, and Tivo
F-Favorite Color: I love pink and brown
G-Gummy Bears or Worms: Sour worms...makes my mouth water
H-Hometown: Houston, Texas
I-Indulgence: Chocolate Chip Cookies, shopping at Hobby Lobby
J-January or February: February..for Valentines Day
K-Kids and Names: Josh-
L-Life is Incomplete Without: My family and stamps
M-Marriage Date: August 9, 2003
N-Number of Siblings: one (I'm the oldest.)
O-Oranges or Apples: Oranges..I have the best orange tree in my backyard. I even was on Martha Stewarts viewer mail where she answered one of my question about how to make a yummy orange dessert using my oranges. I was so nervous I said apples instead of oranges when asked what my question was. *hehehe* It was so much fun.
P-Phobias or Fears: Airplanes...although I love to travel..I am getting better though
Q-Favorite Quote: "Beauty is whatever brings you joy" and "We are really souls living human experiances"
R-Reason to Smile: Listening to my 2 year old count 1 through 10.
S-Season: Winter
T-Tag 3 or 4 people: Hmm lets see...
U-Unknown fact about me: I put ice in my milk and I love to watch cartoons.
V-Vegetable you don't like: celery....yuck...:P
W-Worst Habit: I would say I worry way to much
X-Xrays: Teeth
Y-Your fave food: I love Sushi!! I know it might sound yucky but its really goood and very addicting. I also love chocolate.
Z-Zodiac: Taurus

Mail Out Monday

First I want to thank everyone who participated in my first blog candy giveaway. I have written down all the movies I have not yet seen for a "To Rent" list. So after a great weekend I am ready and refreshed to start stamping it UP!! For this card I wanted to use one of my Lockhart stamps. I just love the vegetable couture collection because I think they are so creative and sweet. This one is the green beans and corn dress stamp. For the background I used SU crosshatch. I used SU paper in the colors of Cool Caribbean, Bravo Burgundy, Always Artichoke, and Whisper White. I also added some patterned paper and organza ribbon. I finished it off with some brads and stickles. Well I guess its time for some lunch I think I am in the mood for a salad *smile*

Drum Roll Please!!

And the winner for my first blog candy giveaway is Carolyn Sharkas!! YAYAYA My son picked out number 19. Please email me at anammontoya@Hotmail.com with your information. Just label it BLOG CANDY WINNER. This was so much fun. I can't wait to do another. I got so many wonderful ideas for romantic movies and books. I see the favorite is The Notebook which I must agree is a TOTAL tearjerker and also one of my favorites. Although I have seen some mentioned there are lots that I have not. Thanks for giving me such great reviews for movies to rent. Thanks again for all the wonderful comments and sweet words of encouragement. Stay tuned for LOTS of other blog candy giveaways. Have a great weekend!! Ana aka annieht

Blog Candy Time!!!

I think an Inkastamp blog candy giveaway is well overdo!! This is my first one but certainly not my last. I think its a small way to thank all my loyal and new blog readers for taking the time to check out my site. I am so honored to get all those sweet comments from such wonderful people. I also wanted to point out that thanks to EVERYONE I am on the Stamping Top 50!! You have no idea how excited I was *Smile* Knowing that people enjoy my work is what motivates me to keep stamping. Since Valentine's is coming for this giveaway all you have to do is leave a comment telling me your favorite romantic movie or book. I am a total sucker for those types of flicks. The drawing for the winner will be picked tomorrow at 6:00pm and announced there after. Good luck

Whatever Goes Wednesday

Yay!! Its Wednesday again. I got to see the new sketch challenge at the SCS site. It was a great one and it was the motivation for this card. I tried the water coloring again. Thanks everyone who gave me input on their favorite water coloring techniques. I think I will buy the Stampin' Up watercolor crayons but for now I wanted to keep trying with my ink pads. This cute little Inky Antics turtle was a lot easier to color than the rabbit yesterday. I also used Stampin' Ups Paisley, and Simply Said sets. I used SU card stock in the colors of Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink, Certain Celery, and Apricot Appeal. I added some stickles in the middle of the flowers and popped them on dimensions. I also added some ribbon and brads. I like this sketch I might try another today.

By the way did you guys see American Idol last night. It was hilarious!! My favorite was the girl who sang like the Wizard of Oz lion. I mean seriously WHAT was she THINKING!! Can't wait till tonight's show.

Tuesday Lovin'

Last night I tried to watercolor some more. I had some trouble because some of the colors didn't blend very well. I think I might have used to much water *oops*. I need to keep practicing because I really enjoy it. I think I just need to get some watercolor crayons from Stampin Up instead of using the ink pads. Does anyone have the crayons? Please let me know if its easier to use and if they are worth buying. For this card I used Stampin' Up Real Rust, Certain Celery, Choc Chip, and Whisper White. The adorable stamp image is from Inky Antics and the sentiment is last years Stampin' Ups hostess set. I also used some stickles *smile* I think its my favorite embellishment right now. Finished it off with some ribbon and hardware.

Mail Out Monday

OK, I think I am addicted to water coloring. This past weekend I bought some watercolor paper and last night I decided I would try something new instead of using my prisma pencils to color in my images. I used my brand spanking new mushroom and bug Inky Antics stamps. (This is the first time I order their stamps and I am VERY impressed.) They are big and of wonderful quality. They allow for lots of coloring which is what I love to do. For the water coloring I used the ink from my Stampin' Up ink pads Real Red, Sahara Sand, Apricot Appeal, Certain Celery, and Ballet Blue. I used a paint brush which I would dip in a cup with water and on the tops of the ink pads I would blend the water with the ink. I also used Stazon ink for the main image so it would not bleed with the water coloring. When I finished water coloring I added some Gum Arabic to the mushroom to make it a bit shiny. I am not sure if you can tell but I GOT MY STICKLES in the mail. I love those too!! I used it on the dots of the mushrooms, the grass, and the bugs wings. The paper I used is Stampin' Ups Real Red, Bashful Blue, Marigold, and Whisper White. For the background of the card I used the On The Spot background stamp and for the sentiment I used the hostess Riveting set. I added some ribbon and brads and some pattern paper. Get ready because you might be seeing more watercoloring. I have to practice since its not as easy as I thought.


By the way I went to the movies this past Saturday and watched Pan's Labyrinth and I loved it!! It is in Spanish with English subtitles but it is so interesting. Its a bit dark but also very touching. It is rated as 98% fresh on the rotten tomatoes website. Check out the trailer online its worth watching.

Suprise Saturday

Hope everyone is having a Great Weekend!! Its not a pretty day here today. Its really cloudy and muggy *yucky* but that just means I get to stamp some more *yipeee* I really needed a little girls birthday card so I knew this was the perfect opportunity to pull out another one of my new Whipper Snapper stamps. This one is so sweet. I love the little mouse on top of the cupcake. I also used the SU Paisley background stamp. I ordered some Stickles online but have not received them yet. I was really bummed because I thought adding some glitter to the sprinkles on the cupcake would be perfect. So with no stickles on hand I went searching for a second alternative. I found some jars of beads that I got in the 66% off after Christmas sale in Hobby Lobby. I guess they are meant for ornaments but I think they were perfect for cards especially "shaker cards" I adhered the beads with crystal effects. The paper used is SU Pretty in Pink, Certain Celery, and Whisper White. I colored the image in with my Prisma colors and added some ribbon and fibers. *The more glitz and ribbon for a little girl is perfect* I finished it off with some pastel brads and popped the main image with dimensional. I hope she really likes it. Now I have to find her a cute little gift. Any suggestions for a little 2 year old girl since I only have a 2 year old boy. I am sure she is not into trucks, balls, or bugs *hehe* By the way I had to put a picture up of these so cool jars of beads. I just love a sweet deal. *smile*

Friday's Fresh Flowers

I just love Stampin' Up Sassy Stems stamp set. It is probably one of my favorites but I don't think I use it enough. Lately (like you might have noticed) I have really been into combining my cards with stamps and patterned paper. I found this one sheet of retro looking flowers last night and I really wanted to use it. I knew I wanted to use a flower stamp so I grabbed my Sassy Stems. I used the more funky flower stamp of the set so it would go with the paper. From there I picked the colors I wanted to use which were SU Cool Caribbean, Choc Chip, Cameo Coral, and a bit of Marigold. I also used my "wonderful" dollar sentiment stamp. *smile* I added some hardware and some cream satin ribbon and my signature crystal effects. *I think I am addicted to crystal effects* I thought it would make the vase look like glass and water. I also did some piercing around the flowers to mimic the dots around the flowers in the patterned paper. Lastly I wanted to wish everyone a Wonderful Weekend. Have fun and stamp away. Don't forget to rent the Illusionist..let me know if you liked it.

Flower Power Thursday

For this card I wanted to use my new Fluffles stamp that a got as a gift. For the rest of the card's inspiration I used the color and sketch challenge for SCS. I have never used such bright colors all together but I think it worked well with the flower filled Fluffles. I also used some of my new patterned paper and squared scalloped punch. (I am really getting brave these past few days by cutting away on all the new pretty papers.) For the word sentiment I used the Dots and Paisley set from SU. The card stock is also SU Pink Passion, Gable Green, and Lavender Lace. I also added some non SU lavender and pink ribbon and a cute flower brad. I am really liking this new card sketch. I might even try to squeeze another in today. I will keep you guys posted. PS. by the way the hubby and I watched the Illusionist last night and it was GREAT. If you haven't seen it I recommend you go to Blockbuster and watch it this weekend.

Whatever Goes Wednesday

I love Wednseday!! Its the middle of the week so its getting closer to the weekend and the new sketch challenge is revealed at SCS. This is my favorite weekly challenge since it gives me so many new ideas on how to layout my cards. For this card I found my inspiration from some new LilyKate paper I had. It reminded me of the movie "Memoirs of a Geisha" where she is standing under the beautiful cherry blossom tree. I knew this was my chance to pull out my new SU Artfully Asian set. I always saw these wonderful cards on the SCS gallery and that made me buy this set but I was never really motivated until I saw that paper. I pulled the color combo of SU Real Rust, Certain Celery, Pretty in Pink, and Chocolate Chip from the branch and flowers on the patterned paper. I added some of the leaves from the stamp set to the branch with dimensions and added some crystal effects. The ribbon is non SU pink satin . I also added a hint of copper by using some cord and brads. I was pretty much done when I was looking through my embellishment box and I saw a circle clip the same color of the Real Rust. I added the clip and did some paper piercing too. I think I will call this card "Cherry Blossom."

Try It Tuesday

For this card I decided to take the challenge on the SCS site that asked us to take out those sets that you regret you bought or what I like to call them "What was I thinking??" This set "Such a Tweet" from SU is surely one of those sets. I don't even remember buying it. It had to have been on one of the Mini catalog. It was probably a mistake in ordering because I can't think of a reason why I thought to buy it. Well its been sitting on my shelf for more than a year and I have never used it. So when I saw what the challenge was I knew what set I would use. I am glad I did because it is beginning to grow on me after using it. I mean aside from the peacock there are some cute little chicks or birds, that I think would make a good Easter card. The paper used is SU Regal Rose, Apricot Appeal, and Not Quite Navy. The patterned paper is from Basic Grey. I also added some of my left over wedding ribbon *smile* and some brads and a circle clip. I also popped up some of the peacock's feathers and added some bling aka DD. I bet there was a moral in this weeks challenge "never underestimate a stamp because you might actually like it!!"

Monday Moose Mail

Here I go again with my new Whipper Snapper stamps. You guys have no idea how crazy I went on their site. I shopped till I dropped!! So in this one I used the WS Moose stamp and Stampin Up Weathered background. I am kinda in the Valentine's day mood for some reason. I guess it has to do with the many Valentine stamps I bought. When I started to color this image with my prisma colors I thought it had a very masculine look. Hence, the moose, woodsy, outdoors feel. I decided I would make a card to motivate all my lady friends to make one for the special "MAN" in your life *wink* I think it is romantic and manly at the same time. I used some of my new patterned paper from Basic Grey. I also used Stampin' Up True Thyme, Chocolate Chip, Real Red, and Very Vanilla. I added some red ribbon and copper cord and brads. I also popped up his antlers and the two front hooves with dimensions. I add some crystal effects and I think I accomplished my "Manly Moose Valentines Day Card!"

Snuggle Sunday

So mom kept our son tonight so me and the hubby could eat and catch a movie. After much resistance I gave in and went to see Rocky. Much to my surprise I actually liked it and enjoyed every moment. It was great fun to go out just the two of us and I even got a chance to drink two glasses of wine!! Now that I am home I really wanted to finish this card I had started making earlier this week. This is my hubby's favorite stamp because he loves turtles. I think this will be his Valentine's day card since I think it came out so sweet. Once again I used my new favorite stamps from Whipper Snapper. The other stamps used are the Stampin' Up Crosshatch background and Sweet Spot set. I also used this cute little heart clip from Paper Studio (50% off at Hobby Lobby) The paper is from SU and the colors are Rose Red, Marigold, Certain Celery, and Very Vanilla. The patterned paper is from Basic Grey LilyKate collection. I am not sure if you can tell by the picture but I popped some of the spot on the turtles shells with dimensions. I also added some crystal effects to the hearts.

Rocking Friday

Well I just had to pull out one of my new Whipper Snapper stamps again. I just love every single one I got that it makes it so hard to choose which one to use. I needed a little baby boy card so I thought this adorable Rocking Horse stamp from Whipper Snapper would be perfect. It was so much fun to color the horse in. I used my Prisma colored pencils and then some SU markers to shade some parts. I also used some LilyKate paper. *It was so HARD to cut a piece of that cardstock* since I love it soo much. Then I added some hodgepodge hardware and ribbon. I placed the rocking horse stamp on dimensions and matted it on chocolate chip cardstock. I also used SU Close to Cocoa, Certain Celery, and Barely Banana. I sponged for some added depth and tied some hemp cord on the sides of the rocking horse image. The sentiment is another dollar bin buy from Micheal's. Aside from the card I also wanted to wish everyone a great weekend!!

Whatever Goes Wednesday

I finally decided to use my SU Mixed Bouquet set I got for Christmas. I always saw the beautiful creations on the SCS gallery and it was what made me want this set so bad. But once I got it I never really could find what to do with it. Every card I made was just not right. I thought I would give it another chance with this weeks SCS sketch challenge. I worked on it for hours last night and again this morning. I finally like how it turned out its a bit busy but here it is. I used a few other sets like the Stampin' Up Simply Said background stamp and the sentiment is from the dollar bin in Micheals. I used SU Bravo Burgundy, Certain Celery, Pretty in Pink, and Barely Banana card stock. "Wow..I just realized how many colors I used" For some added details I also used crystal effects and glitter on the rose and the leaves. I added some bronze brads and organza burgundy ribbon. I also used some scraps of Chatterbox patterned paper for the circle. The cute little flower clip is from Paper Studio which is currently on sale for 50% off at Hobby Lobby.

Too Cute Tuesday

I think I have found a new love besides Stampin' Up!! I am in heaven with my new Whipper Snapper stamps. They are so awesome. They are totally worth every penny because you can tell they are of high quality. Not to mention they have the cutest images EVER. I am going to have so much fun and I can't wait to show you guys the other amazing stamps I got from them. For this card I used this weeks sketch challenge at my favorite site SCS. I also used some of the 6 x 6 patterned paper I bought yesterday at Hobby Lobby. I thought it went great with the balloons and the circle theme of the sketch. Also someone please stop me from using this color combo!! I just love it. The paper is from SU and is Marigold, Cool Caribbean, Chocolate Chip, and Very Vanilla. Aside from the color combo please stop me from using my Riveting hostess set too!! It really goes with everything. I think its my favorite set when I feel something is missing from a card. I also used the Small Script hostess set from last year. The Koala is from the amazing Whipper Snapper. I added some ribbon and circle clip for some more details. For the circle I used my circle Coluzzle.

Mail Out Monday

Today I had my mother take care of my son for a few hours so that I could go to Hobby Lobby for some SHOPPING :) Since nobody likes to go with me because they all say I take to long and go through the isles more than once they all decided I should go and have some alone time *smile* That was just perfect and let me just tell you they had some AWESOME deals. All their stamps were 50 percent off along with their stickers and rub-ons. I had so much fun throwing things in my cart. As I was browsing the stamp section "about one hour in just that section alone" I was looking at Stampabilities mouse collection. I usually don't care to much for the mice but one such stamp caught my eye. It was this cute little mouse with strawberries *my favorite fruit* and I knew I just had to have him. I also bought some cool paper from Basic Grey "also on sale" and a stack of retro 6 x 6 pattern paper. As I was looking at the papers at home I noticed one patterned paper looked a lot like the seeds of the strawberries so I ripped it out and inked up my new strawberry mouse and this is what I came up with. I think I am really starting to like the mice. They stamp great and they allow for a lot of coloring. I also used some fibers that I had from like 4 years ago and some green SU ribbon. The card stock is Stampin' Up Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Certain Celery and Whisper White. I also popped the donut hostess stamp from Stampin' Up on dimensional. I really like how the mouse stamp and the card came out. I think I might have to go back to Hobby Lobby to take a better look at those mouse stamps *smile*

Happy New Year

Wow!! Another year has past and I don't know where it went!! I guess I have accomplished a lot of new things and started some pending projects but for the most part this year has flown by sooo fast. I think part of it is having my son turn 2 and with him you have no time to stop. But I am not complaining because other than stamping he is what keeps me grounded *smile* For this coming year I have lots of tasks that I would love to accomplish. One big one is to lose my "so I like to call it" baby weight "I know he's already 2!!" but it makes me feel better to blame it on him *hehehe* I know I always say that every year but who knows this might be my WOW year. Well back to stamping. I realized as I decided I wanted to make a New Year's Eve card that I don't have many stamps with that theme. I guess its really not worth it since its only a one night event. Anyhow I came up with this card. I'm not to crazy about it but it works. I used the Marigold, Vintage Violet, Chocolate Chip, and Bashful Blue card stock for the card. I also used the stamp set "Along the Same Lines" which was one of last years hostess sets. The crosshatch background was also used. I also added some ribbon and finally used my new designer label punch set. To finish it I added my favorite detail, crystal effects. I also did some paper piercing and sponged the edges. Finally I want to wish everyone a happy and safe New Year!! Here is to 2007!! *Cheers from Ana*

Baby Joy

Since venturing online I have gotten to meet some incredible people that share so many of the many things I love to do. One such site is SCS where I have met a bunch of gals that always make my day *smile* One of the gals just had a beautiful baby boy so I thought I would send her a welcome home baby card. I have been wanting to use the "Wild about You" set and the "Letterpress" bg since I first saw it done by a very talented person on SCS. "Once I find out her name I will put a link to her gallery since she deserves all the credit." I used my new Cool Caribbean and Marigold card stock from Stampin Up. To finish it off I added some hodgepodge hardware, gingham ribbon, and copper cord. I also popped the lions mane "which I also got the idea from SCS" and added some Crystal Effects. I think it came out pretty cute and I hope my new online friend likes it!

Friendly Friday

One of my good friends just made a huge step with her fiance and bought a new house. I am so excited for them and to see them so happy makes it even better. I always love when you start off a new chapter in your life whether it be a new home, new baby, or new job. It is always an exciting journey that gives you quite a ride. Hopefully mostly good..but I have much faith in their relationship and wish them the best of luck. For this card I decided to make a gift card holder since I included a Bed Bath and Beyond gift card. I got the great sketch idea from my trusty SCS site. "They Rock" I used Certain Celery and Bashful Blue card stock. The house stamp is from the dollar section in Micheal's *smile* love a great deal. I am not sure if you can tell on in the picture *I know its a horrible picture* but I used some Crystal Effects and glitter on the bushes by the house. I also used my new scalloped punch. The other stamp is the set of Polka Dots and Paisley that Stampin Up sent to all the demonstrators as a gift. "Its my favorite set right now!!" Well I can't wait to send it out tomorrow.

Thank you Thursday

This holiday season we have been so blessed to have received so many thoughtful gifts from family and friends that I just really thought I needed to send some "Thank you" cards. I am sure that if you are a Stampin' Up demo then you too have received this beautiful set of Polka Dots and Paisley. For this card I broke into my new set and used Sage Shadow and Bravo Burgundy cardstock. I also used the little flower from the Simply Said set. I thought it looked alot like the flower in the middle of the paisley. I got the sketch from the SCS card challenge this week. Which really is a GREAT sketch that works with any set or occasion. I also want to thank all my loyal blog viewers that really motivate me to keep stamping. You really are my inspiration. Love Ana

Whatever Goes Wednesday

Hey ya'll...what a great Christmas we had. I hope yours was just as wonderful. I have not been stamping to much lately but I have had to make some much need "thank you' notes to hand out to certain people that really went all out for us this year. I decided to use the SCS color and sketch challenge to motivate me since I am lacking ALOT of it lately. *stressed* Well this is what I came up with. I am really not feeling it but it is what it is and it will be sent postal tomorrow! I used my new set I got from Stampin Up and added the crystal effects and glitter. To finish it off I used a pirma flower, some paper piercing, and ribbon. I also stamped on the twill. OK now we stampers need to get ready for the New Years festivities. *Geez* we never stop *smile*

Stocking Stuffers

My sister just started a new job at a bank a few months ago. She loves it and really likes her co-workers. So since she is totally creative challenged *smile* and I got all the creative genes *smirk* I promised I would help her come up with a cute gift to give all her co-workers. I was going to go the cookie route but she said that they were overflowing with cookies from customers so off I went a searching at the SCS gallery for unique ideas. Once again I was not let down by my trusty SCS site and found this cute "Snowman Soup" poem and recipe. I thought this is easy and adorable. My sister was so thrilled with the idea. This is what they came out looking like.To make the tags I used Stampin' Up Festive Four.


Inside the bags...Hot Cocoa, Candy Cane, Marshmallows, Hershey Kisses

The poem reads...
I was told you've been real good this year Always glad to hear! With freezing weather drawing near You'll need to warm the spirit. So here's a little Snowman Soup Complete with stirring stick, Just add hot water, sip it slow, Its sure to do the trick!!

Another Holiday Card

This week I am going to be doing nothing but Christmas cards since I cant believe it will end on Monday. *sniff* This year I have gotten so many new Christmas stamps that I have not had a chance to use them all. That is why I want to make as many cards as I can before they get put up until next year. This one stamp is from the Canadian Maple Company. I used the same sort of layout from the "presents card" I made on Saturday. But I think this card sketch works really good for long stamp images. I also added some Christmas lights ribbon I found at Micheal's in the dollar section. I thought it would go perfectly with this stamp. I think this card will go to the little old nice couple on my street. They really are adorable.

Mail Out Monday

I think this is one of the cutest stamps I have. I just love how the lion is hugging the other animals. I always wanted to use it as a "Peace on Earth" card since that is what it symbolizes to me. The stamp is from Close to My Heart and the aged wood background is from Stampin' Up. I also used Stampin' Ups new True Thyme card stock. I also added some scraps of Chatterbox pattern paper. I thought it went great with the card. I was not sure if I could use it as a Christmas card but I think I will send it to my uncle who is an organist at a beautiful church in Charleston. I think he would like this card better than a traditional Santa card. I think it has a more religious meaning to it. I popped the mane and tail of the lion and added some glitter. To finish it off I also used another one of my holiday rub-on sayings.

Just Another Holiday Card

I know its Scrapin' Saturday but I am so in the Christmas spirit that I really want to continue to make Christmas cards before I put all my holiday stamps up :( This one set from Stampin' Up has been on my shelve for two Christmas sessions and has never been used. I thought I would wipe off the dust and make something out of it. It was a challenge and I am not sure what I think of it but it works. I popped some of the presents on dimensionals and added some Crystal effects on the others. I also used my holiday rub-ons I purchased last week at Hobby Lobby for 50% off. I love a great bargain *smile*

Techniquein' Thursday

For this weeks technique I used one of my favorite products in the market in my opinion. Its called Iridescent Ice embossing powder. I thought I would use it with the last of the Marshmallow friends I have left. This image is the Marshmallow Santa. Like it says it embosses and adds glitter in one step. That means there is less mess to pick up. The only thing that is need is the Versa Mark which is also a great product. Once you stamp the image on the versamark you transfer the image on paper which leaves a water based image. You pour the embossing powder and heat set it and you get a wonderfully shinny and extraordinary Christmas card.

Whatever Goes Wednesday

I thought I would use one of my other Marshmallow friends today. I just love this little Rudy!! He is so cute. I am not sure if you can tell but I added glitter on his nose and popped him up. The "Joy" sticker is a hallographic sticker. I really like the retro feel of this card. I used my new Stampin' Up Cool Carribean paper and Chocolate Chip. You can never go wrong with those color combos. I also used some left over scrap paper from my SEI "Granny's Kitchen" collection. Next up is my Marshmallow Santa.

Template Tuesday

When I first saw this project I just knew I wanted to try it. Its such a neat way to display pictures with materials you already have or could get for cheap. I found the tutorial from the ever so talented Beate on SCS. She always comes up with the most interesting projects ever!! I decided I would make these for the grandparents for Christmas. I thought I would make a coaster brag book of my sons pictures. This is my first attempt at the coaster mini album and trust me it wont be my last. They are so easy and fun. For this album I used SEI "Granny's Kitchen" and once I adhered the paper to the coasters I sanded the edges down to add a weathered look. I added some primas and hardware for added texture and finished it with some pretty brown ribbon. Here is the link for the mini coaster tutorials.

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/coasterminibook.php

Mail Out Monday

I am finally starting to feel a little better!! Yay!! The flu bug really got me good. Although I did not do much stamping the last couple of days I did do some shopping. Hobby Lobby was having this awesome sale on their stamps so I could not resist and grabbed a few new stamps to add to the ever growing collection. *smile* My favorites were the Stampabilities marshmellow collection. The only ones left where the penguin, raindeer, and santa claus. I could not choose between them so I bought them ALL. This is the first card I made with this new stamp. I used the marshmellow penguin and the Stampin' Up tall tales alpha. I just love that set of alphabets for the Christmas season. I embossed the word SNOW with white ep. Then I added a tag with a snowflake stamp I got at the dollor section in Micheals and added some ribbon and brads. I think this one will be given to my SIL who loves penguins.

Still feeling under the weather. Since I had not had the time to make the tutorial of the ornament I search for one online. I found this site with great instructions and great projects as well. Let me know if you made one so I can check it out. Say a little prayer for me and I hope you are enjoying your holidays. Love Ana

http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54541769.tip.html

So sorry for not posting and being MIA but I have not been feeling well. I am starting to get better so once I do I will post some super cool projects and cards for you guys. Just bare and keep checking my blog because I have great ideas that you wont want to miss!!!
Ana

Whatever Goes Wednesday

Sorry I have not posted in a few days but I have been crazy busy with family and the holidays. I have not had a lot of time to stamp but bare with me..I will be back on schedule very soon. I wanted to share with everyone my son's Christmas pictures. I am still trying to figure out which one to send with my Christmas cards. Which do you guys like the best?