Beyond Paper Alley

A trip to the Lady and Son's Restaurant

2011-12-14T10:50:00.000-06:00

A few months ago my granddaugther came to visit us. Of course it was a world win of activity because we hadn't seen her in so long. One day we went to historical down town Savannah. The intention was to do a lot of sightseeing, a little shopping, and of course eat at Paula Deen's Lady and Sons Restaurant. The restaurant does not take reservations by phone, so the first stop we made was the restaurant knowing it was more than likely going to be busy. We arrived shortly after it opened at 11 am. The hostess is outside, down a little way from the main entrance, head phone on, with a line of people making their reservation or returning to be seated. So we make our way up to put in for a party of three. To our surprise the first available time is 3 pm! Come to find out the hostess starts around 9:30 am taking reservations for the current day. And of course, not to disappoint Taylor, we took the time and figured we would walk about town for a while.

So off we went to several stores, bought some Savannah Bee Co. honey and products, got the pups some treats from a doggie boutique, and did a lot of window shopping. Unfortunately the weather wasn't as understanding and it was a good thing those compact umbrellas fit into my handbag. (And for the record I was harassed about bring the umbrellas, but when the rain came they sure didn't complain when they were dry!)

Well, it was finally time to head there and eat! We are starving and our stomachs seemed as if they were grumbling to each other about not being sufficiently fed by this time. Back to the hostess on the street who gave us the OK to head to the entrance. Upon entering we were met by another hostess directing us to the elevator and told us we are going to the 3rd floor. As we arrived upstairs we were met by another hostess and we finally were seated. Needless to say you are not sneaking into this restaurant! Each floor has a buffet line, or you can order off the menu. Our stomachs were happy!

I forgot to mention not only were umbrellas in my bag, but TWO Paula Deen cookbooks. Taylor asked our waitress if she was there so we could get the cookbooks signed. She said that Paula wasn't there, but she would see if any of the sons were there to come and sign the books and talk with her. A little while later she came back and said they were not there either, but she was kind enough to bring Taylor a signed picture of Paula Deen. Taylor was so excited the whole time she was there. Not only did she eat off her plate, which she ordered off the menu, but helped us with our food too. I just don't know where she can put all of that food!

Here is the page I made for Taylor so she can remember her trip to PDs. For the journaling I used and old recipe card. I was going to write it out myself, but I figured it was Taylor's page so I gave her a call to see what she would like it to say. I think I may want to add a few more embellishments to the page, but so far everything I tried I didn't like. I have one more page to make with pictures from our Paula Deen visit and then they go to Taylor for her scrapbook.

Hope you have a creative day!

Paula

Fab 5 Day 5-Flower Soft

2011-11-18T07:09:00.000-06:00

Have you tried Flower Soft yet? This product gives fast, easy dimension to your designs. I love the way the Flower Soft added that extra special touch and thoughtfulness to this sympathy card.

I hope some of our ideas this week inspired you to create something you love! Don't forget to visit the other blogs.

LEANN

AMY

PAULA

KAYLA
ANNETTE
KELSEY
DAWN

Fab 5 Day 4-Dimensional Design

2011-11-17T08:29:00.001-06:00

Today we had fun making some dimensional designs. I made this little advent box out of matchboxes. I painted each box with craft paint. I punched the holes for the brads with my Crop-a-Dile. I also lined each of the little boxes with a coordinating piece of paper.

This would be great for small gifts such as mints, charms, earrings, brads, buttons, keys, or inspirational sayings. It would be just the right size for a kid, a work desk, or what about a cute Secret Santa gift to wrap up the end of the year and holiday season.

In addition to the box I made this pop up gift card holder. I plan to make several of these this year since all of our gifts are going to be sent out to other states.

I hope all of you are finding some fun ideas this week. Have a great day!

LEANN

AMY

PAULA

KAYLA
ANNETTE
KELSEY
DAWN

Fab 5 Day 3-Susan Louis Designs

2011-11-16T07:25:00.001-06:00

Today we are featuring Susan Louis acetates. She is a local artist from Wisconsin that we met at CHA. What an interesting story she has on how she started making these acetates. She has so many beautiful designs you are bound to find something for any occasion. The wild life, are great to use for that special guy in your life! Some of the nice things about the acetates is you get several on one sheet, she has coordinating smaller items like bobbers, and fish hooks, and no coloring is needed.

LEANN

AMY

PAULA

KAYLA
ANNETTE
KELSEY
DAWN

Fab 5 day 2-Spellbinders

2011-11-15T06:27:00.001-06:00

Today's challenge is one of my favorite things, Spellbinders! I hope all of you have had the opportunity to try these little babies out. If not, go see the girls and say "Show me the Spellbinders!" I promise you will not be disappointed, you just might hate me later for a new addiction.

Since my cards didn't all post last month I made two cards for today to redeem myself-one for Grand-mom O's birthday, and one just for fun. (Plus, it was fun to make more than one card.) The snowflake card is at Picture This, along with all of our Fab 5 challenges, if you want to take a look. For the snowflake card cut out various snowflakes, ink the edges, adhere to your card layer, and then run it through the embossing folder. This is an easy technique that turns out a really neat effect. Give it a try with other Spellbinders such as the flowers. Don't forget to visit everyone else.

Have a blessed day!

Paula

Spellbinders: Various Snowflakes including this year's release, Lattice Rectangles, Foliage, Flourish
Punch: Marvy
Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Inks
Embossing folder: Textile, Snowflakesribbon, snowflake, flowers

P.S. Did you know if you click on the posted pictures they will enlarge so you can see the detail better?

LEANN

AMY

PAULA

KAYLA
ANNETTE
KELSEY
DAWN

Fab 5 Day

2011-11-14T07:15:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone! So are your ready for another week of Fab 5? What a great time for some creative inspiration! The Extravaganza followed by 5 days of awesome ideas. I used four Judith stamps-the deer, trees, snowflake, and rocky grass that the deer is standing on. I pop dotted the deer for a little dimension and colored the image with Copics. I doubt I will see any significant snow this year, if any at all, so I had to get a little bit of a snow fix in there. I wanted to surprise everyone this month so I sent some of my Fab 5 creations in to sit with the others. Don't forget the visit all the blogs. Enjoy!Paula

LEANN

AMY

PAULA

KAYLA
ANNETTE
KELSEY
DAWN

Fab 5 Day 3

2011-10-05T09:51:00.000-05:00

Today our challenge is bling! So, I am slowly finding all my fun stuff; it almost feels like Christmas!I hope you are finding some ideas and inspiration to create.

Bling, craft paper, card stock, prima flowers, TH tissue tape.

Fab 5 Day 2

2011-10-04T08:26:00.000-05:00

Good morning to another Fab 5 day! Today's challenge was using Spellbinders. I used the squares and scalloped squares on this card. Don't forget to visit everyone else and see all the fun ideas.

P.S. I found my Copic pens in the last box I opened yesterday. What a relief! Still looking for ribbon, rubber mat for my Cuttlebug, and a few other choice items I miss.

Have a great day!

Paula

Inks: Copic, Memento, Tim Holtz
Paper: card stock, Graphic 45, Basic Gray
Dies: My Favorite Things, Spellbinders
Pearls from Zva Creative

New Home

2011-10-03T07:36:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! I am sorry I haven't been keeping up my blog very well lately....well...err..maybe a few months too long! Anyway we are getting all settled in here for the most part. I am having a hard time finding things as boxes are labeled and the contents inside is not what I am expecting. I just found my Cuttlebug last night. I have yet to find my Copic markers! Which is really having me in a panic to say the least.

The picture above is the room that is going to be my craft room when all is said and done. Though it doesn't look like it, the color of the room is Dreamsicle orange. I am changing it to a green. I will take more pictures when it is done and all put together. It is a nice large room so I will have plenty of area to organize my goodies (once they are all located)!

The other picture is of the sunrise out my back door. This doesn't give it any justice! It was so pretty and colorful! I ran to get my camera and in that short time it had already changed. We have the large oak trees in our back yard with spanish moss hanging from them. Since we are on the marsh area off the river everyday egrets, geese, duck, herons, and other birds fly in. In the morning I love getting up and going out onto the porch with a cup of coffee and watch the sunrise and listen to the geese and other birds on their morning missions. It is a relaxing start to my day.

Other than unpacking I have been staying pretty busy. I started taking some classes, found some of the local libraries, grocery stores, post offices, and all of that good stuff. We have joined the local Richmond Hill Historical Society. They have guest speakers every month and arrange trips to local interest sites. We went and saw the Henry Ford Plantation a week ago. They have taken the land and made it into a private gated community. Very beautiful! Savannah is about 20-25 minutes away. That is where you will find the malls, Bass Pro, and all of that type of stuff. We did go to the historical district a few weeks ago to celebrate our anniversary at the Olde Pink House. Wonderful, delicious dinner! We had a really nice evening. We are planning to make another trip soon to check out the rest of the area.

Well, I promise to keep up better with my blog. I have given my address and phone to Leann if anyone is interested. If you are every down our way give us a call! Miss you all!

Paula

P.S. See below for Day 1 of Fab 5

Fab 5 Day 1

2011-10-03T07:33:00.001-05:00

Well, is everyone ready? Back to the fun Fab 5. Today we are using Judith stamps. I hope you like my Halloween card. It was interesting to make a card when you are challenged with what you have....lol. If you read my earlier post you know I have yet to find my Copic Markers-among other things.I pop dotted the little ghost sheet so it added some dimenion. So today's card was colored with good old fashioned crayons! See you all tomorrow.

Ink: Memento, crayons
Paper: Violet Felt, orange cardstock, We R Memory Keepers-Heebiejeebies line

Guess where I am!

2011-07-17T06:00:00.004-05:00

Yeah, my first year at CHA! So yesterday was a very full day between guest speaker Rick Segel, Spellbinders, Heartfelt Creations, Just Rite, and Want 2 Scrap. Oh what a treat to see all of the new stuff that is coming out. Needless to say I think I am not going to be able to move because I am going to be indebted to Leann for life. I tried to offer my first born, but she wouldn't go for it what so ever.

I can't wait for you all to see the fun things that are coming! Why oh why do I have to have a love for Spellbinders.....ahhhh. We were all drooling profusely. All of the companies above have coordinating stamps, bling, or exclusive dies designed by Spellbinders. What fun and think of all of the possibilities......hehe.

First day of ordering was yesterday and I can't wait for all of you to see what Leann has got for you!

Gotta get ready for day two. Today we are going to have stuffed full day with over 20 vendors. It will be like speed dating!

Have a great day everyone! Hope to see all of you soon!

Paula

Taylor's cards

2011-04-20T18:21:00.002-05:00

My grand-daughter Taylor enjoyed her time at the Picture This while she visited. She was in a few nights including scrap to midnight. She loves to play with my Copic markers and her new found love is the Greeting Farm stamps. She made several cards while she was here and I wanted to post a few to share. They are getting ready to head back to warmer weather and I after another day of snow I wish I was going to be in the car with them!

Paula

Fab 5 Day 5

2011-04-15T06:36:00.005-05:00

Good morning! Boy has this week gone fast.

Above you will find a bottle I made for my daughter. She was married on the beach and collected some sand for the memory. Well, the poor sand has never made it out of the baggie yet. When I made the bottle I had to ask her what color vellum she like, so I had brought home three and she chose the blue. I had her stamp the tag with their names and the date of the wedding. (We cut it out after stamping the vellum as it makes it easier to line the words up in the space on the tag.) I think when she adds the sand the blue will stand out really nice, and it was the color scheme of her wedding also. She is up visiting so we did not have the sand, but I did add a few shells I had collected from the beach years ago. On the top was added ribbon, tissue tape to the cork, and topped it off with two tags from the Timeless Heritage collection.The tags were cut 3 times each-twice in aluminum foil and one with cardboard/chipboard. I inked them with Tim Holtz alcohol inks to give them the colors above. We then glued the inked shapes on the back and front of the cardboard. I did color the tissue tape as we were playing, but we ended up using a non-colored piece. Coloring the tape is easily done with alcohol inks as well. I don't think the picture does it justice; so if you want to see it come to the store soon because she will be leaving next week and he bottle goes with her. Thanks for looking!

Paula

Spellbinders: Fancy Tags and Timeless Heritage

Ink: Judith and alcohol ink (I believe the colors in Nature's Walk)

various ribbons and TH tissue tape

Stamps: Just Rite

Fab Five Day 4

2011-04-14T10:34:00.006-05:00

Today I did a card with acetate. You can use Staz-on if you want to stamp a back ground image on the acetate. I wasn't finding anything that really popped out at me when I started this card, so I kept it simple. I used Labels 16 (x4) and a circle from the large collection. Sorry for the picture not being very good. I have to modify a few technical issues at home until I break down and get my home computer up and running again. Thanks for looking! Paula Ink: Copic and Memento Paper: Cardstock and DCWV ribbon and half pearls Stamps: Clear Art Stamps (which is another one of my favorites!)

Fab 5 Day 3

2011-04-13T10:51:00.004-05:00

Already day 3, how fast the time is going. Today I used two dies on my card-circles and the Sunflower Set 2. After cutting and embossing the sunflower I kept the paper in the die and colored the exposed areas. The brown paper is embossed with a Cuttlebug folder. I colored this little Magnolia girl a while back and I am glad she finally found a home.

I also have a guest today. A self proclaimed Picture This employee, my grand-daughter, Taylor. She loves coming to the store to help and create. So on Sunday she came in to create while Lacey and I worked. She had her box of scrapbook/card supplies and her scrapbook ready to go. Well, she really likes making the quilling flowers from Cuttlebug. So she canvassed the store picking out paper, stickers, and stamps. Tada! Here card is the other card shown. And to be honest it was with very little help from me. The only thing I did was supply some ink, tightened up the flowers just a tad, cut her basic layers, and reached for the stamp she wanted to use. She is very proud of her card and even sent a picture to my husband Brian. I am very proud of her card myself!

Take care,

Paula

Ink: Memento and Copic

Dies/Embossing folder:Cuttlebug and Spellbinders

Edge punch: EK Success

Paper: card stock and My Mind's Eye

Fab 5 Day 2

2011-04-12T08:46:00.003-05:00

Another day of inspiration with Spellbinders. Today I used 3 dies, can you figure out what ones they are? 1. Flying Beauties-the butterflies. This set also comes with two larger butterflies and a dragonfly. 2. Labels 16-This is the cut out center and the white paper inside. This set comes with 6 graduating dies. And the last one is........did you figure it out yet?.........and number 3 is..... standard circles large. This is the center flower.

Ink: Memento

Paper: Cardstock and My Mind's Eye

Dies:Spellbinders and Cuttlebug

stamps:Kaisercraft and Inkadinkado

Fab 5 Day 1

2011-04-11T10:00:00.004-05:00

Good Monday morning everyone! This week are the fun Spellbinders dies. What endless possibilities are available to give your creations that little extra umph and no one has to know how easy it was. I can't even begin to tell you how many I have because they are addicting. Today I used the duck set. I folded pink paper in half and on the fold I placed my die a bit down so I would be able to have a card afterwards. I also cut the shape out of the double sided sticky paper from Dreamweavers. Then I added a google eye to my duck, and flocked it with some hot pink flock. I made this little ducky into a baby announcement. Inside it has stamped Just Arrived and the info about the little one born. You could make your duck a lighter pink and add ribbon, make it into a shower invitation, a first birthday party invite, or even add it to a first bath scrapbook page. Have fun!!!! Die: Spellbinders Adhesive: Dreamweavers Stamps: Fiskars bling, and google eye

Visitors

2011-04-09T21:23:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone! This week has been a great week. My daughter and grand-daughter arrived Wednesday. So in between me working we have been eating, shopping, and visiting. Taylor, my grand-daughter, has made out the best so far. Of course being her birthday was on Wednesday did help. Next week we plan to get massages, facials, manis and pedis, do some sight-seeing, and of course more shopping! Maybe this week we will see some of you out and about.

Next week starts the Fab Five + One. Our highlight for the month is Spellbinders. I think everyone will love all of the ideas and find inspiration with the dies. My lovely, outstanding grand-daughther will be a guest designer on my blog this week. Maybe I can get my daughter to do something too.

Talk to you soon,

Paula

Fab 5 ~ Day Four

2011-03-24T13:57:00.003-05:00

This little guy would be a great one to have for all of those cards you need to make for the men in your life.

Inks: Copics, Memento

Papers: Basic Grey

Buttons

Cuttlebug Swiss Dots

Border punch; EK Success

Fab 5 ~ Day Three

2011-03-22T16:29:00.005-05:00

Here is a little cutie ready to float down the river in the nice warm sun. I hope you are following all of the blogs and getting great ideas.

Ink: Copic, Memento

Paper: Cardstock, and I cannot find the patterned paper designer (will try to update you later)

Punch: Wave punch from Fiskars

Copics

Fab 5 ~ Day Two

2011-03-22T16:21:00.004-05:00

Here is a decoder card. In side each of the round dots are "secret messages." When you put the red centered flower over the secret images, one shows a bananna, and the other says "I am banannas about you."

Cardstock, Daisyd's Bambino Collection

Copics

shear gift wrap paper

Fab 5 - day one

2011-03-22T16:14:00.002-05:00

Off to a late state, due to my main computer being down.....errr! Can't live with it and can't live without it! So today's card is the cute monkeys in the car. I checkered the hood and roof like a cab, added a little glossy accents to the lights, and gave my car a vanity plate. The red card stock I embossed with a Cuttlebug folder.

Cardstock, Black and White Check by PJK Designs
Inks:Memento, Copics
Cuttlebug embossing folder
brad

Sneak Peak!

2011-03-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

Ok, you are seeing it now- Next week are the zany Chingato Monkeys! Check out what the design team comes up with next week. See you soon!

Fab Five Day 3

2011-02-23T14:34:00.003-06:00

Good afternoon! I guess my Fab 5 did not go through this morning...errr...

Well, with Easter around the corner I have been thinking of things to give to the nieces and nephews. So I used the fun clear tubes at the store and filled it with some yummy jelly beans! If you double click and look closely I have little feet going all around the tube where the little mouse has been helping fill the tube.....or maybe taken some to nibble on?

Ink: Copic, Memento, Staz On

Felt Fusion

Spellbinders

Fab Five Day 2

2011-02-22T10:44:00.006-06:00

Good morning! Or maybe I should say "Top of the morning to you!"* For today I did my lucky little four leaf clover mouse. The four leaf clover on the front is made with the left over hearts from a corner punch. I save my shape punches from my border and corner punches and use them as confetti or turn them into something else. Insided it wishes a Happy St. Patricks Day. Did you know each of these mice have thier own names and personalities?

Paper: cardstock and My Mind's Eye (back polka dots/front the other pattern showing)

Inks: Memento and Copics

ric rac ribbon

rhinestone bling

*Trivia of the day-This saying is not Irish, it is believed to be orginal from the good ol' USA.

Thanks for looking!

Paula

House Mouse time

2011-02-21T08:33:00.004-06:00

This is one of my favorite stamp companies! Not only do they have cute little mice, but rabbits and bears in the collection as well. They have over 500 designs!

Today's card makes me think of the saying "Did you ever have one of those days!" After coloring the card I added a little bit of Crackle Glossy Accents to the card to make the dirt look freshly dug up.

Thanks for looking!

Inks: Copic, Memento

Flower: Prima

Paper: cardstock, Dreamstreet Papers

P.S. If you are a House Mouse fan, and you are going to Picture This, ask about how to earn free stamps, and discounts.

A Fun Weekend

2011-02-07T11:53:00.004-06:00

This weekend my friend Melissa came to Eau Claire because we had planned on making some fresh pasta. We usually spend the whole day making a variety of ravioli and cavatelli......yummy! Making them in the winter is the best time because we can spread them out on cookie sheets and are able to freeze them quickly outside. We were both looking forward to a messy, fun, taste testing day in the kitchen. Of course all of the planning and preparation was wasted as the temp outside was too warm and the humidity was high. The poor things would of never froze as quickly as we wanted and probable would of stayed sticky.

But of course we had a back up plan! We had a shopping and crafting weekend instead. I worked on my Fab 5, my Valentine's Day card for my hubby, and gave Melissa a crash course in Copic Markers. She started on her Valentine's Day cards. Some of you may remember Melissa as she use to work at the store.

Melissa's cards came out so nice I had to share them with you. I can't show you my cards yet since they are Fab 5 week creations, but I will give you a hint-House Mouse. That whole line is just so cute!

Thanks for looking and hope to see you soon!

Paula

Cute Magnolia stamps

2011-02-03T17:30:00.000-06:00

Have you seen the Magnolia stamps in the store? I think they are just so cute and I love to color them with my Copic markers. This is a little cutie I attached to some glitter snowflakes I cut out with Spellbinders. If you double click on the picture it will enlarge and you will see the detail of the white background paper as it has embossed snowflakes on it. Hopefully I will be putting more Magnolia stamps on here soon. Thanks for looking!

My nephew Royce

2011-01-30T16:55:00.005-06:00

Hi everyone! Hope you are staying warm. This is a layout of my nephew Royce who lives in Delaware. Not only does he play snare drum, but also bass drum, cymbals, and the xylophone to name just a few. Unfortunately the only time I get to hear him play are by posted videos. The band is headed down to Atlanta, GA for a band competition in April. Go Newark Yellowjackets!

Fab Five Day 5

2011-01-25T18:45:00.003-06:00

Ooops! I tried to set up a post in advance and it did not work for some reason. So I am a tad late for day 5. Day 5 is the Judith rabbit stamp and Easter egg stubbie. I pop dotted some of the eggs around the bottom for more dimension. I thought this would work really well with a grass punch as well. Thanks for looking and I hope you have a great week!

Paula

Fab Five Day 4

2011-01-20T21:12:00.004-06:00

Hi everyone! Sorry for the delayed post, I had a bit of computer issues earlier in the day. I can't believe how fast this week is going and we are on day 4! Today I used the cute little grumpy looking bear. On the inside it says "I don't do mornings!" This reminds me so much of my daughter. And she can be a bear waking her up in the morning too...

The other card I have posted today is my co-worker Amy's. She was awesome and done the Fab 5 with us and we each were able to showcase one of her cards each day. Her card is a cute little Valentine card.

Come by the store and see the all of the great cards and projects first hand!

Paper: Crate Paper, Basic Grey, card stock

Ink: Copics, Memento

Cuttlebug Swiss dots

Stickles, Hero Art flowers, brad

Fab Five Day 3

2011-01-19T08:44:00.005-06:00

Today I made mini note cards and a cute little box to hold them in. This is such a versatile idea. Think of all of the little cards you can make for each and every occasion. Then you can decorate the box and cards to match. I stamped mine with the Judith stubbies-Hugs, Kisses, Hello, Love, Thanks. I love putting cards inside of gifts because it always adds that element of surprise!

Ink:Memento

Stamps: Judith

Paper: basic card stock and My Mind's Eye

Two more days to go! I would love to see what you have made!

Paula

Fab Five Day 2

2011-01-18T08:53:00.002-06:00

Good morning! I always check out everyone else's post too. Wow, quite a variety! I hope you find some inspiration. Today my card is a baby card made with the Judith train animals.

Inks: Memento, Copic

Paper: basic card stock, 3bugsinarug

Stamps: Judith

P.S. The plaid paper is also just as adorable on the back! It has inch worms and numbers. I can see a page done with this side when a child is learning how to count. It also reminds me of the inch worm song! Ah, some days it would be nice to be a kid again.

See you soon,

Paula

Fab Five Day 1

2011-01-17T08:49:00.002-06:00

Good morning everyone! So our team is back to give you some great ideas with Judith stamps. With Valentine's Day coming up I made a cute card for my nephew Collin. He is at that age where he wants your attention, but because you are a girl he will act like you are bothering him.

Stamps: Judith

Ink: Memento, Copics

Paper: basic cardstock, Moxxie

Die:Spellbinder

Ribbon: something from my stash

We had a great time!!!

2010-11-30T20:03:00.003-06:00

Can you guess where all of these awesome ladies are from? Our October bus trip! Bright eyed and bushy tailed we all met at Picture This early in the morning for breakfast,shopping, and make-n-takes. Then off we went! First stop Rochester and then onto Bloomington. Each store had great stamp and scrap goodies to check out, yummy food, and fun make-n-takes for us. We had bus games and entertainment from some of the ladies on the bus. Who would of thought we would remember so many words to different songs. The weather was great and the ride was relaxing. I had a great time and want to thank all of you! Let's do it again!!!!!

Fab Five Day 5

2010-09-17T07:35:00.006-05:00

Good morning everyone and TGIF! As you have seen all week we had fun with the Spellbinder pendants. Today I have two cards because I have a guest -Amy. Amy has been working at Picture This since April. I can't believe how fast the time is going!

This month I decided to do a Christmas card using the Just Rite snowman stamp in the center of layered pendents. I added a little bling to the card with Stickles, a snowflake brad on top of a snowflake sequin. I colored the little guy with Copics. I just love this stamp as he reminds me of Frosty the Snowman. (And I will admit I have all of those great Christmas specials that I watch every year.)

Amy's wedding card is done with one of the pendent dies accented by pearls. She also used the little green awesome machine, the Cuttlebug, to emboss the red background paper and the champagne glasses. The tag she put the glasses on was also cut from a Spellbinders Labels. Awesome Amy and thanks for being my guest!

I GOT TO PLAY AND PLAY ALL DAY!

2010-09-07T11:40:00.005-05:00

I got to play, play, play all day yesterday! Even though the store was closed a couple of us were at the store creating! We were getting ready for the Fab 5, our Christmas Card Marathon, some fun classes, and our first annual Bus Tour. Whoo hoo! Then when I got home I made this flower arrangement since fall is around the corner. The vase is a wedding gift my sister and her family gave us years ago. I still have to add a few more things and straighten it out on all sides, but it is almost done.

I finally finished putting together my Dreamweaver's embossing paste and stencils class that I promised a few post back. Check out the store's web site under classes to see one of the cards we will be making with embossing paste and Metallic F/X.

2010-08-09T20:55:00.000-05:00

Well, I worked all weekend and I was able to do some demonstrations and one was with our mighty little green machine-THE CUTTLEBUG! I know several of you have it, but I was surprised about how much misinformation is out there about what it can do.

Did you know this great little machine can cut and emboss Cuttlebug products, Spellbinders dies, the thick Sizzix dies (think of those new Tim Holtz dies), various other embossing folders and plates, and flat metal stencils. Yup, you heard me right-your flat metal stencils! No more light box, stylus, and wax paper. Well, maybe occasionally.

You would not believe how happy I made some people! I heard "I don't use them anymore.", "They are too much work.", " I gave all of mine away." and "I was getting ready to sell them at my yard sale." So now some people are going to go home and give them a try again.

Speaking of those metal dies, I also demonstrated how to use them with Dreamweavers Embossing Paste. This paste will add a whole new dimension to your paper crafts. The dragonfly with the lilypad above was done with the black embossing paste, then Metallic F/X was applied. So don't give up on your stencils!

I hope you have a wonderful week!

P.S. Several people were interested in the Dreamweavers so I will try to put together a class in the next 6 weeks for those interested in learning.

Awesome Metal Boxes

2010-08-08T20:30:00.004-05:00

I found these awesome metal boxes at a local thrift store! The one on top in the left picture holds my Cuttlebug embossing folders and the bottom box hold my Spellbinders dies perfectly. The top box even has the letter dividers so I can put my folders in alpha order. But they are so bland! Well as you can see by the sneak peek on the right I am going to alter my wonderful finds so they look a little nicer and less industrial. I bought some Graphic 45 papers to add the much needed color to these poor little guys. Can't wait to finish them up and show you how they turn out.

Out for a ride

2010-08-04T16:34:00.003-05:00

My husband and I decided to take a country drive the other day. It was nice to get out, relax, and ride around. Summer is definitely in full swing. I took quite a few pictures and figured I would share some with you. The apples were looking really good, not too much longer to enjoy some yummy apple turnovers!

I think Queen Anne's Lace is my favorite wild flower! The remind me of a firework of flowers. Have you ever seen ones with a pink hue? I haven't seen any since I moved to Wisconsin.

The sunflowers were so beautiful! I only had my camera with a small bit of zoom. I am going to try and go back and get some closer pictures with my other camera.

We didn't see any animals besides the cow and buffalo on the farms. It was too hot and I am sure they had found a nice cool spot to relax in. We did see a lot of Cabbage Butterflies and a few Monarchs. Several birds also flying around enjoying the nice day too.

I hope all of you are enjoying the summer!

Fab Five Day 5

2010-07-23T06:29:00.003-05:00

I can't believe how fast this week went! Today's challenge was the trees from Spellbinders. I haven't done a pop-up card for the Fab 5 and that is the first thing that came to mind to do with the trees. I hope everyone had fun this week looking at the ideas we all came up with.

Stamps: Amuse

Die cut/punch: Spellbinders and Paper Shapers (EK Success)

Paper: Cardstock, Jute cardstock, Bo Bunny

Brads, and Tattered Angels for misting the trees and background

Ink: Memento, Copic, and Martha Stewart

Fab Five Day 4

2010-07-22T07:13:00.005-05:00

Good morning! Well, as you can see by my late post I did not want to get up this morning. With the sound of the rain I wanted to be a bum and sleep in a bit. Today's challenge is the die cuts from My Mind's Eye. My granddaughter and Jessa was born less than a year apart and since both of their parents are friends they girls spent a lot of time together. Well, Jessa recently moved to another state and my granddaughter really misses seeing her. So this page is for my granddaughter's scrapbook. I left the card blank so she could fill in what she missed about her friend. I think I may go back and change the format and font of the words. To me they are missing something when I look at it. I played with it several times, but I just haven't found the right look I want yet. I am design challenged right now.

We are hoping to get the girls together next year to take on vacation with us and go to the Jersey shore with all of my family. Most years on vacation the gals out number the guys, but I think we really entertain them with our craziness.

Paper and Die Cuts: My Mind's Eye and Meadow Lark line
Cuttlebug words
Stickles

Fab Five Day 3

2010-07-21T06:31:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it is already Wednesday, this week is flying by. Today's challenge is the rub-ons from October Afternoon. I just love these beautiful rub-ons as they are so versatile. Actually, I even have the matching stamp set! I made a sympathy card for today keeping it very simply. I rubbed Remember and one bird on the outside. Then on the inside I rubbed the flowers above the sentiment. Hope your day is wonderful!

Paper: Cardstock, Best Creations
Rub-ons: October Afternoon
Stamp:Impression Obsession

Fab Five Day 2

2010-07-20T06:10:00.003-05:00

Today's challenge are using a great set of acrylic stamps called "Time Flies." There is such a variety in this pack. This card is larger than an A2 as the stamp is a good size. I think this little girl is just adorable, seeming so content to just sit and pick flowers. It would be nice if we could all slow down a day and just do something that makes us feel so content and have no worries. Hopefully, everyone will have a day like that this week. Though you can't see it I added a white writing area inside and added a border of flowers.

Stamp: Penny Black
Punch: EK Success (flower border on inside)
Flowers: Got Flowers
Paper:Fancypants, cardstock, Fancy Papers
Ink: Copics and Memento

Fab Five Day 1

2010-07-19T06:00:00.003-05:00

Good morning! I had to try two passwords to get in this morning. That is not a good sign. For one, it means I have been neglecting my blog! I know I promised to update my blog better last post. Time is just flying by..... Then I was sick for a week, got a bit dehydrated, and had to go in for IV fluids and such. And though I feel 100% better this week, I would not want to relive any of that experience! Second reason I forgot my password, or so I like to think, is I need a relaxing vacation ........hehe.

Did everyone make it to A*Amuse*A*Palooza? I just love their stamps this year. I think the tree branch with the leaf on the side is already sold out!

Well, today's challenge is the GCD paper with the flowers on it. I thought it look nice and bright to send to someone I was thinking of. I cut out the butterfly and pop dotted to the card so he floats. Hope all of you have a great day! Off to work for me......

Paper: GCD and cardstock
Punch: Fiskars
Stamps: Stampendous and Great Impressions
Ink: Memento

Updated Blog

2010-06-26T11:30:00.002-05:00

Well,I have started to update my blog a bit. I like this new background, but I am not sure if it is really what I want. I am working a getting a few projects on here that are long overdue. Then I have already started thinking of my ideas for next month's Fab 5. I have one of my days pretty much wrapped up. YEAH!!

So did anyone do a different project with the same things we used last month? I would love to see others takes on the different papers. That is one of my favorite things about Fab 5-seeing all the different things we think of even though we all work together.

I hope everyone is enjoying summer so far. See you soon!

Paula

2010-06-18T06:39:00.007-05:00

TGIF!!! I hope everyone has had a great week! Todays challenge was the pretty ribbon. I thought it looked great with the House Mouse stamp. Those stamps are one of my favorites! I tried to capture the fold in the picture so you can get a good idea of how it was done. But as always everyone's Fab Five designs will be on display at the store, so if you want to see up close come in and take a look. My background papers are My Mind's Eye. I colored the little cuties with Copic Markers.

Hopefully this month I am going to revamp my blog a little and get some long awaited fun altered projects I did on here. My husband will be working on his pages too and I will have them up so everyone can check out his military pages. I am working on him to do his pages towards the altered Tim Holtz look. Needless to say he always gives me this look like I am crazy! Have a good one everyone!

P.S. Don't forget to comment on any of the blogs to be in the drawing to win the prize package Leann put together. And I don't know how many of you know we are on Facebook! Last week Leann sent out a message to the first one to respond got 40% off the new Dot Matrix embossing folder from Tim Holtz. I was so jealous! ALSO, next week is Customer Appreciation week and there is something fun and special every day!

Fab Five Day 4

2010-06-17T11:16:00.004-05:00

I hope everyone is getting some great ideas from the challenge. Today's paper is a pretty peach paper from Dream Street. I punched the one butterfly into the patterned paper. The other butterfly I punched from two scraps of coordinating card stock and adhered them next to the flower. Since this is a punch that lifts from the paper itself I had to cut out the two other butterflies. I folded the wings of the peach butterfly to give a bit of dimension, adhering the teal to the paper for a shadow. Stickles was added onto both butterflies to add a touch of shimmer. I thought the sentiment inside was very fitting for this card. This was a paper that you could do simple and take advantage of the beautiful pattern or dress it up, either way it looks good.

Paper: Dream Street and cardstock
Ribbon
Punch: Butterfly (I can't remember, but we do have it at Picture This), border punch Martha Stewart
Ink: Memento
Stickles
Stamps:Unity Stamps

Fab Five Day 3

2010-06-16T10:08:00.003-05:00

Already half way through our challenge week...where is the time going? Here is my granddaughter and my niece at the water park. Aren't they the cutest bathing beauties you ever seen? My daughter and I are trying to catch up on all of our pictures and I thought I would use this one for my challenge. I cut the shells out with Spellbinders and airbrushed the color onto them with Copic Markers. If you click on the picture you will see I used VersaMark to stamp shells onto the background cardstock.

If you like this layout there will be a limited amount of page kits on hand at the store. The kit even includes the shell stamps! See you there!

Die Cuts: Spellbinders
Paper and Tags:Scribble Scrabble Waves, My Mind's Eye, and cardstock
Ink:Copic, VersaMark Watermark
Stamp:Inkadinkado

Fab Five Day 2

2010-06-15T06:38:00.005-05:00

Good morning! So today you get two cards because I got a little carried away with the baby idea. Both cards were fun to make. I got help on my second card from my dog Wayne. He always wants to be getting loved on or wants to see what you are doing. So on the flap card about the time I was going to stamp is the same time he decided he wanted to see what I was doing and got half way up into my lap. Hence the smudged ink. BUT that is the beauty of stamping! I am going to cut a coordinating piece of paper and put it on that side and stamp again....instant fix! As you can see I made that card a baby announcement and it has a little pocket to slide a picture into. This is another one of those great versatile basic card patterns that can be made into an announcement, note card, or invitation-just change it up a little bit to fit your occasion. I hope everyone has a wonderful day!

Paper:American Craft patterned paper, DCWV, plain cardstock
Ink: Memento and Copic
Ribbon
Stamps: Hero and Fiskars
Spellbinders

Fab Five Day 1

2010-06-14T06:33:00.004-05:00

Here is a little card I made with out first challenge paper. I always enjoy seeing what we all come up with. If you want to enter a challenge don't forget our Bo Bunny customer challenge is this month.

Stamp: Hero Arts
Embellishment: Me & My Big Ideas
Paper: TPC Studios: Woodland Whimsy "Save the World" stripe, Eskimo Kisses by Basic Grey, card stock
Ribbon: green ric rac
Punch: EK Success
Color: Copic

My awesome husband!

2010-06-14T06:13:00.004-05:00

My awesome husband made this page! He has been deployed twice,once to Iraq and once to Afghanistan. (These pictures are from his first deployment to Iraq.) He placed stars next to the bases he served on while there. The medals are three of the many he has earned. He knew exactly how he wanted the page to look and went to work. Now he is ready to make another one, as he has told me he has two more layouts in mind. He purchased everything at Picture This except for the map and the medals. Which cutting those little medals was not his favorite part. He was working on the page in the classroom and another one of the store's customer/friend was busy trying to finish a scrapbook she was making for a gift. She told him welcome to the world of scrap booking as he was talking about getting those medals right. I think it is awesome when the guys come in and buy things to do their books and invitations. (We do have a few!) So keep checking back to see what he has created! Maybe some of your husbands and boyfriends can join together with my husband?

Paula

Fab Five Day 5

2010-05-14T06:27:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone! Today is our last day and I hope you have found something to inspire you to make something fun. My creation today is a cute little gift card holder. Upon opening you will see you have room to write a little note and on the opposite side is the gift card holder. This holds a normal sized gift card and can be used for all types of occasions. Think of weddings, birthdays, graduations, thank-you, confirmation, and the list goes on. Just change the design and off you go. Lacey I and have a class making graduation cards in which I teach this technique. Check out the class page for all of the upcoming class dates and times. Hope you have a good day! See you soon!

2010-05-13T10:20:00.002-05:00

I found the directions for this cute little box on Splitcoast. I thought it would be cute to make it a gift for my granddaughter when she moves up to forth grade. She loves chocolates and they would fit very well. The box also will hold 3x3 note cards and envelopes. I used both sides of the My Mind's Eye for this paper. The second layer on the top was a little tricky, but I think it turned out very cute! Have a good day!

Paper: My Mind's Eye, Co'ordination, WorldWin
Punch: EK Success
Tag: ? it was in my stash of stuff
Flowers:Prima

Fab Five Day 3

2010-05-12T06:19:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone! Well we are already half way through our week. I hope you have been having fun visiting our blogs. To me it is always fun to see what we all come up with. Today's paper challenge is the green floral pattern.

Paper: My Mind's Eye, WorldWin, Co'ordinations
Ribbon: green flower from store
Cut and Emboss: Spellbinder and Cuttlebug
Bling: Hero Arts
Flower: Mulberry Street from Petaloo
Stamp:Inkadinkado
Ink: Memento, Copic Markers
popdots

Fab Five Day 2

2010-05-11T07:09:00.007-05:00

Today we are using My Mind's Eye Penny Lane collection. A ready thank-you card always comes in handy. The embossed flowers are done on the back side of the patterned paper. My Mind's Eye papers are fun to work with because they have matching double sides and the papers match within the collection line-some even interchange nicely between collection line. Have fun checking out the other blogs!

Paper: My Mind's Eye, WorldWin
Dies and embossing folder: Cuttlebug set With Gratitude, Spellbinder
Gems: Hero Arts
Punch: Fiskars

Fab Five Day 1

2010-05-10T11:32:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone! It has been so long since I have posted! It has been a wirlwind of a month. After my trip to Delaware to visit my mom, dad, sisters and family it has been non-stop. My husband came home from Afghanistan in April...YEAH!!!! Then my daughter, son, granddaughter, and her friend came up to visit for a week. The girls and I had a good time at the last scrap to midnight making some pages. I try to get them posted in the next couple of days. They are very proud of thier pages.

Well, this week's challenge is with My Mind's Eye. One of my favorite papers in the store! Our paper today is the pretty pink flocked paper from the Lush collection. I stenciled the roses on the side with the lightbox since I placed them at different angles. But don't forget Dreamweaver stencils work great in your Cuttlebug. After I stenciled and inked I dusted a little Dreamweaver's metallic powder for shimmer. I hope you like my creation and it inspires you to make something for someone special to you.

Paper: My Mind's Eye Lush Collection, WorldWin
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Tim Holtz Victorian Velvet, Martha Stewart (green)
Ribbon: cream satin
Shimmer and stencil:Dreamweaver
Punch: Martha Stewart

My Guest Hayley

2010-03-25T14:36:00.002-05:00

Today I am posting a scrapbook page made by my niece Hayley. She had a Pinewood Derby race on Saturday and won most original car. So off to the local craft store in Delaware. (Not nearly as stocked at Picture This.)She had a good time making her page and is excited to share it with you.

Fab Five Day 5

2010-03-19T14:32:00.003-05:00

This is my granddaughter holding an adorable Wallaby named Noah. We had such a good time out west! The challenge paper today was from Scrap Works. I kept it simple by adding coordinating papers. I hope everyone enjoyed this months challenge papers. Good luck on winning! See you soon.

Paper: Scrapworks, WordWin
popdots

Celebration of a very cute toddler!

2010-03-18T19:51:00.004-05:00

My friend has the wonderful and blessed opportunity to adopt a precious little boy. This is a page I gave as part of a gift. Unfortunately I forgot to write down the materials, but I did buy everything at Picture This.

For Hayley

2010-03-18T19:43:00.002-05:00

Here is the last card I made for the Girl Scouts class I am teaching on Wednesday.

Paper: WorldWin, Core'dinations, BoBunny
Ink: Memento and Copics
Die Cut: Spellbinders
Emboss: Cuttlebug
Stamp: Me&My Big Ideas

Fab Five Day 4

2010-03-18T17:22:00.003-05:00

Our challenge today was using this double sided paper from My Mind's Eye. I kept it very simple as I think the paper speaks for itself.

Paper: WorldWin, My Mind's Eye, Coco Brown
Stamp: October Afternoon
Ink: Embossing powder dark blue
Glitter: Pink Paslee Pixee

Fab Five Day 3

2010-03-17T07:35:00.001-05:00

Another day of challenge! Today our paper was the pink leaf background on the card. This is a double sided paper with metallic stripes on the other side. As you can tell I am ready for spring with all of the birds and bees this week. Don't forget to check out the other great ideas!

Paper: WorldWin
Ink: Glue Pad with embossing powder
Die Cut: Spellbinders
Stamps: Hero Arts and Crafty Impressions
ribbon

FAb Five Day 2

2010-03-16T06:29:00.002-05:00

Today's challenge is using paper from Heidi Swapp. I decided to use the small dot side of the paper. I just love the House Mouse and friends stamps. I added a little shimmer to the wings.

Paper: WorldWin and Heidi Swapp
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic Sketch and At you Spica pen
Flower: Silk Vision
Ribbon: mesh netting from Picture This
Stamp:Buzzy Friends, Hop-it, Bumble from Stampabilities
Die Cut: Spellbinders

Fab Five Day 1

2010-03-15T09:05:00.003-05:00

Onto the next challenge! Today's challenge is the Basic Grey paper. What better way to celebrate spring than with some cute birds. Make sure to check out the other ideas.

Paper: Basic Grey, WorldWin
Die: Spellbinders Label 1
Stamp: October Afternoon
Ink:Anna Griffin
ribbon and gems

Girl Scouts here I come

2010-03-10T18:16:00.003-06:00

Still trying to get that "special" card for my niece Hayley.

Paper-WorldWin, Momenta, K&Company
Stamp-Stampendous
Ink-Tombows, Judith black

The NEW Spellbinders are here!

2010-02-28T21:12:00.001-06:00

I was so excited to see the new Spellbinders are in! So Dawn was not the only one playing this weekend. The background on this card is the new Spellbinders Impressabilities called Sea Scape. I had the hemp twine, shells, and glass beads from my jewelry making stash. I tried something new this time and embossed my shell before coloring it with Copics. I love the way it turned out! I can't wait to try a few other things with this plate.

Materials:

Paper-Worldwin
Core'dinations Whitewash collection-Watering Can

Stamp-Inkadinkado

Ink-Tim Holtz Distress Ink-Tea Dye
Copic Markers

Upcoming Card Marathon

2010-02-28T21:00:00.004-06:00

Here is a cute card I made for the upcoming Card Marathon on March 6th. We are going to be making cards from 10:30-2:30. Go to Picture This website for a sneak peak at some of the other cards you will get to make. Hope to see you there!

2010-02-21T18:06:00.002-06:00

This is a card I made to see if it passes the "Hayley" inspection. Hayley is my niece in Delaware and I have promised to do some cards for her Brownie troop. Hopefully I will pas the test. She can con me into just about anything by telling me I am the best aunt in the world. Who can resist that?

Cardstock-Worldwin
Patterned paper-DCWV The Green Stack
Stamps-Sorry can't remember the bird and saying, but the light blue medallion stamp is from Paper Salon
Ink-Copic Markers, Martha Stewart

Fab Five Day 5

2010-02-19T06:55:00.003-06:00

Our challege today is using Core'dination paper. With the tan core of this paper it reminded me somewhat of leather. I took the paper and embossed saddle up and a saddle with some stencils I have. I mounted the pictures of my in-laws on faux suede paper. The horseshoe line is out of a packet of die cuts that include a lot of other neat horse related themed items. The cardstock is Worldwin. The corner punch is by Creative Memories. I hope everyone had a good time this week checking out our blogs. Check back often for other ideas and our challenge next month.

(If you are interested in the horseshoe die cut package company I will let you know later tonight as I have misplace mine. Since I work at Picture This tonight I will update you after 7:30.)

Ok, here is the company that makes the horseshoes. They are Quick Cropper Cuts by Outdoors And More.

Day 4-Rose Paper from Basic Grey

2010-02-18T06:40:00.002-06:00

Today's challenge paper was this rose paper from Basic Grey. The cardstock is from Worldwin. I cut a circle using my Spellbinders then I stamped it with a Just Rite saying "To truly Love someone, we must Laugh with them." I distressed the medallion with Tim Holtz. On the inside (sorry for the lack of picture) I used some of the left over rose paper. Hope to meet you at Picture This!

P.S. Have you checked Just Rite stamps out? These stamps are really neat as you can interchange borders and sayings. There are square borders, round borders, multiple sayings and art stamps, and they have letters in various fonts and size. FUN!!!

Fab Five Day 3-Will You Be Mine

2010-02-17T06:17:00.003-06:00

Welcome to day 3! I hope you have been visiting all of us and getting some great ideas. Today's challenge paper is from Tinkering Ink. This is a double sided paper with the round emblems on one side and on the reverse it has a design that includes peacocks and hearts. So I decided to make a Valentine card. The cardstock is from Wordwin which I cut using Spellbinders Label Seven. I then used the script and textile embossing folders. I cut out a heart (found on the backside)and added shimmer with a clear Copic atyou Spica marker. The stamp is from Serendipity Stamps. Don't forget to comment on any of the blogs to be entered into the drawing for $25 dollars in product and a sheet of each of our papers we are using. Good luck!!!

FAb Five Day 2

2010-02-16T06:07:00.003-06:00

Today's challenge is using this pretty floral paper from Websters Pages. I embossed the blue paper with the Cuttlebug embossing folder Floral Fanasty. The ribbon is a leaf ribbon that comes in various colors, but I like the green. I cut out a stem of flowers and a butterfly to add dimension to the middle by adhering with foam dots. Though it may be hard to see, I added sparkle to the floral paper using a clear atyou Spica from Copic. The words are something I had in my stash of goodies and I can't remember who they are from. Though if you ever need words (or shapes)cut out don't forget we have our Pazzle machines with multiple fonts to choose from to customize your pages. Don't forget to visit the other blogs for more great ideas. Hope to see you at Picture This!

Make It Extra Special

2010-02-15T16:57:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone! Here is my creation with our Basic Grey challenge paper. Who can resist a chocolate bar? The large flower are from Prima. The smaller flowers are Art Flowers by Hero. I added the shimmer by spraying them with Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist (Dew Drop) and then added a little bling in the center. The tag is from Spellbinders Ribbon Tag Trio 2. What a nice way to make something extra special for someone you appreciate! Make sure you check the other blogs for more great ideas using today's challenge paper. See you tomorrow.......

Hi Everyone!

2010-02-06T19:32:00.002-06:00

Well, here is the first posting on my blog. I figured I better get it up and running so I won't get tortured and harassed anymore by my friends. Plus, looking back on Annette's blog I can see Dawn really tracked her down until she posted, and if I get this up before Dawn finds me I can avoid that fate. Check back over the next couple of days to see some of the fun ideas I am working on.