TiffanyPastor

Introducing Nativity Silhouettes and Additions

2011-10-12T23:59:00.001-06:00

Hello Everyone!
I must start off with a big thank you for all your sweet and encouraging comments about my new stamp sets. I have been so blessed by check out Nichole's blog, and Lisa Johnson's as well to see such positive feedback. I just wanted to say THANKS!

A run down from on what's going on this week...

Nativity Silhouttes retails for $24 and releases on Oct. 15 at Papertrey Ink.

Nativity Silhouettes Additions retails for $15 and releases on Oct. 15 at Papertrey Ink.

The Nativity Silhouettes die is only $4 and adds so much to easily make 3-D effects on your projects! Don't miss out on that!

Check out my earlier posts from Monday and Tuesday as well.

I love the traditional colors and warmth this card has. PTI ripe avocado, spring moss, and scarlett jewel really make such a lovely color combo. This card showcases the majority of the Nativity Silhouettes set (though there is still more in that set to be utilized!)

I love the gentle touch of the dove floating over the sentiment. I just love thinking of the quiet peace of Christmas Eve. I am sure that very night when Christ was born was cool and silent... how beautiful the stars must have been... how glorious the angel's voices! For me, Christmas Eve is so restful as all the gifts are wrapped, projects are done, house is clean, and we often attend a candle light service at church. My husband and I love to cuddle in bed with hot chocolate and watch a favorite Christmas movie. In the midst of the hurried season that Christmas usually is, it is so nice to stop, pause, and remember WHY we celebrate this holiday. What a gift from the Lord that He sent His Son for us.

Happy blog hopping! I don't know about you but this release is REALLY getting me in the mood for Christmas! My son has already started asking for hot chocolate each night. I think we have a wonderful season ahead of us- and I earnestly pray that you do, too!

Nothing But Grace,

Tiffany

Nativity Silhouettes release

2011-10-11T23:59:00.001-06:00

Welcome back to the Papertrey Ink countdown for the October 2011 release. I am so excited to have TWO Christmas stamp sets releasing this month.

Nativity Silhouettes retails for $24 on Oct. 15 on the Papertrey online store.

Nativity Silhouettes Additions retails for $15 on Oct. 15 as well.

These sets feature a complete array of distressed silhouette images allowing you to create the Christmas story on your cards, scrapbooking pages, and other projects. Nativity Silhouettes features the Holy Family, stable, two angels, two shepherds, sheep, stars, donkey, cow, starburst and sentiments. (Yes! All that!) The Additions set allows you the opportunity to add the wisemen, camel, palm trees, and other sentiments as well. You will love all the options offered with this set!

Check out my sneak peek from yesterday.

Today's card features PTI's Ocean Tides as a card base. I am really liking the light gray card stock instead of white which is more muted for the humble and quiet nature of the images.

I am also enjoying using pattern paper that is not necessarily designed for Christmas and jazzing it up a bit. On the flowering vines on the pattern paper I added tiny rhinestones to give a little extra twinkle. I thought it came out pretty elegant. You will notice the sentiments feature a very popular and modern font which is great to use with any type of Christmas project.

For the inside of the card, I finished the other side of the stable and added more sheep. (I love these sheep.) And the angel directs your eye to the sentiment featuring some traditional and familiar Christmas lyrics.

Don't forget to stop by and see what the other PTI girls have in store for you! Check out: Nichole Heady, Beth Silaika, Dawn McVey, Maile Belles, and Melissa Bickford. You won't be disappointed!

Nothing But Grace,

Tiffany

Introducing "Nativity Silhouettes"

2011-10-10T17:34:00.004-06:00

Greetings dear bloggers!
I hope you have been enjoying some cooler fall weather. I feel like I just finished decorating my house with fall frills and now I am already getting my head ready for Christmas! Just yesterday my four year old son and I were counting and reviewing our Christmas movie collection. We have to hide them in the master bedroom closet or my son will insist on watching Christmas movies all year long. :) SO, I counted and was quite impressed that I have 23 Christmas dvds in my stash. I think I will be ready for some Christmas cheer this year!

Well, I am thrilled to introduce a new Christmas stamp set coming your way via Papertrey Ink.

>> Nativity Silhouettes will release on Oct. 15 at Papertrey's online store.
..... This set retails for $24 and also has a matching die set as well. AND there is a fabulous additions set with some wonderful images as well. The set features distressed silhouettes from the Biblical Nativity scene. You will LOVE having this set for many Christmas seasons to come!

Today's card features some cool and wintry colors. I am still in purple mode after decorating my daughter's nursery, and actually used many of the same papers and embellishments to create this card. The blue pattern paper is from Glitz, and the bling and cardstock is all from Hobby Lobby. The "Holy Family" images have coordinating dies. I stamped some blue stars from the set on the pattern paper to give it a Christmas feel. The purple tones make me think of royalty, which is quite fitting for the baby Jesus. He may have been wrapped in swaddling clothes and surrounded by barn animals, but I thought some royal colors and elegant bling would be fun!

Don't forget to check out the other PTI gals and their new products as well: Nichole Heady, Maile Belles, Melissa Bickford, Dawn McVey, Beth Silaika, and Heather Nichols.

Hope you enjoy the PTI count down... see you again soon!

Nothing but Grace,
Tiffany

A Place to Call Home

2011-09-17T19:41:00.014-06:00

Hello dear bloggers!
Well, this post is long overdue, but it is here none the less! SO, my sweet little girl was born just three weeks ago. I was waiting for the family to come and see her room before posting pictures online and then the recent PTI release had to take precedence. Above you can see my sweet little pumpkin. Wow, I am so in love with this girl, it is just crazy! She has honestly been smiling since the day she was born and she is just an absolute joy for our family.

Decorating my daughter's room felt like a special gift for me to give her. I would day dream about her room... only God knows how many more girls I might have, so I was ready to go all out. :)

I was pretty sure I wanted her room to be done in purple and green. I have always been a "purple" kind of girl. And one day I happened upon the Vera Bradley new print called "Water Color" and I was just in love! It is girly, soft, sophisticated, and classy. And I loved the accent colors of blue and gray. SO I picked out a bunch of coordinating fabrics and sweet-talked my sewing savvy mother-in-law, Gail, to work her magic for me. She blew me away with her creativity! She made a custom bumper, dust ruffle, nursing cover, fitted sheet, swaddler, and burp clothes. I just LOVE it!

Above you see another custom gift from a very dear friend. She took the coordinating beach towel and attached a matching hood and created a matching wash cloth. My little girl is going to be so blessed to fit into this snuggly towel for a long time!

The secret to my Vera Bradley room is all in the linen napkins they sell online. The napkins come in 20 inch squaeres which is just big enough to use in all kinds of projects!

Of course the room needed a little crafty touch... so I made these two frames (pictures still needing to be put in) with the matching decor. One frame will have her birth date, weight etc, and the other frame has a scripture verse that I love (John 4:13-14).

I also created a shadow box with a psalm-like poem or prayer I wrote for her. As you can see from the different frames, I cut out the flowers from the Vera Bradley pattern and used them in the design to tie everything together. I was excited to add the texture of the fabric and also have the matching imagery.

One of my favorite pieces in the room (above) is my daughter's name. This was a fun custom project. I designed her name with different fonts and my mother-in-law was able to cut them out in vinyl using her Pazzle so I could easily attach them to my picture frames. I used the coordinating fabric as a back drop to the frames. My awesome husband hand-crafted the shelf for me. The moulding and details are beautiful and compliment the baby furniture in the room. Yay, Luke! It came out looking very sharp and really helps create a strong center piece for the room.

I really wanted to make a crafty mobile to go over my daughter's crib, but after much thought decided it would likely end up looking like a wire-hanger science project. One day, though, I thought it would be cool to have a giant flower ball instead. I had several coordinating silk flowers already chosen and after promising my husband a hundred times that it would not be too heavy to hang over the crib, I began the project. My sweet, sis-in-law, Brenna, spent a couple hours with me as we put it together. Let's just say that this baby room would be nothing if it weren't for hot glue and a few sacrificial blisters. And the secret to my flowering centerpiece? It is a paper lantern! Super light in weight and super easy to hang up. My flower ball is 16 inches in diameter and the picture just doesn't do it justice (yay for Hobby Lobby's online shop!). The canopy was made with silver mesh, my sis- Brenna, and a whole lot of patience. She was a great sis to stand on the high bar stools while prego (me!) stood back and critiqued her work! LOVE you, Brenna!

My hubby painted my glider black for me- which was a thrift store treasure I found at just the right time! I made a little seat cushion to pull that corner together.

OK, yes, I actually did decorate the baby powder and wipes containers. Laugh all you want! :) But they DO look so much nicer with matching felt and ribbon! You know I could not have gotten away with that for a boy's room!

Well, I hope you enjoy the little tour of my baby room! It has been so fun nesting and welcoming my little girl into our family. I also finished her one year baby album before she was born- so I will be sure to share posts of those pages as well. AND I will also be sharing a recap on the story of her birth. What an AMAZING God-Moment it was! And that is no joke!

Now I must get back to my little angel... she has won me over again and again... and I have a feeling it won't stop. Being a mom is really such a joy and a gift from God.

Nothing But Grace,

Tiffany

Introducing "Winter Cheer", day 5

2011-09-13T23:59:00.002-06:00

Can you believe it is the last day of the PTI September count down!? There have been so many beautiful projects across the blog scene, and it is definitely getting me excited for Christmas! Bring on the Christmas movies, the music, the cookies and hot cocoa! Well, it may only be September, but I am a big fan of Christmas, so I am happy to get in the holiday spirit early. :)

"Winter Wishes" will be released Sept. 15 at Papertrey Ink for $24.

This card features a cool winter feel with PTI colors in Spring Moss, Ocean Tides, and Ripe Avocado. I love the peaceful and quiet look of a snow covered forest.

Well, now that the release is finally here, I look forward to unveiling the pics of my baby girl's nursery. Let's just say it is a "Vera Bradley" inspiration and I had a blast putting it all together. With fun stories behind the creation, and maybe a pic or two of my sweet little lady, you won't want to miss my next post!

Happy PTI shopping, and hope to see you back here soon!

Nothing but Grace,

Tiffany

Introducing "Winter Cheer", day 4

2011-09-12T23:59:00.003-06:00

Ho Ho Ho!! It's time for day 4 of the PTI September count down. (Ok, I will try to tone down my cheesy Christmas euphamisms.) Check out the info on my upcoming stamp release, for a set that holds lots of nostalgic flavor!

>> "Winter Cheer" releases on Sept. 15 with Papertrey Ink for only $24!

This card features a sweet vintage digital image of "old saint nick" compliments of Graphics Fairy. PTI colors are New Leaf and Pure Poppy. I liked the edgy and modern color of the light green ribbon to partner with the traditional image.

The sentiments in this stamp set switch out to give you a lot of options, and the snow flakes can help finish off any project with a bit of cheer.

Nothing but Grace,

Tiffany

Introducing "Winter Cheer", day 3

2011-09-11T21:44:00.003-06:00

All right, I must say, I am loving the fun feel for this card! It's already DAY 3 of the PTI count down for the upcoming September release. Here are the stats on my new stamp set coming out in just a few days!

>> "Winter Cheer" releases with Papertrey Ink on Sept. 15, retailing for $24.
>> This set has a vintage/grunge style that will jazz up so many projects and give a fresh and modern feel to your stamping for the season.

This card features the PTI perfect match colors: New Leaf, Spring Moss, Raspberry Fizz, and Pure Poppy. The bright pink Christmas tree reminds me of the scene in the "Charlie Brown Christmas" cartoon movie where Charlie Brown searches for the perfect tree and finds a lot full of brightly colored aluminum trees. The hand drawn and glittered scallops bordering the background piece give a nice funky touch as well. Just love that.

I hope this card leaves you singing... Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la... because a great Christmas card should leave the tunes of the season skipping in your heart!

Cheers,
Tiffany

Introducing Winter Cheer, day 2

2011-09-10T20:50:00.005-06:00

Greetings!! I hope the PTI count down has been getting you revved up for Christmas! It will be here before we know it! And you might just find that "Winter Cheer" is the perfect set for your holiday projects. It has a great vintage twist, and actually several images that can be used all year round.

"Winter Cheer" releases on Sept. 15 at Papertrey Ink, retailing $24.

Today's card features a fun Santa image I snagged from the Graphics Fairy. Love that site! And the vintage Santa seemed to pair up so nicely with the other images in my stamp set. This card features PTI pure poppy, Aqua Mist, and True Black.

More to come with Winter Cheer!

Tis' the season... Tiffany

Introducing "Winter Cheer"

2011-09-09T20:12:00.005-06:00

Hello sweet bloggers!
The summer flew by and it is already time for the Papertrey Ink September release! You might have noticed that I have been a bit MIA from my blog lately.... My summer was quite busy with my third trimester of pregnancy... we traveled quite a bit in June, spent a good deal of time decorating my baby girl's nursery and lots of nesting. Plus, my 4 year old son kept me busy with swim lessons (very rewarding to say I taught my son to swim-- and got a tan in the process!) My sweet little girl was born on Aug. 23. It's been two weeks, and yes pictures of my sweetie and her adorable room will follow the PTI count down. I had an AMAZING labor/delivery, and my girl is SUCH a gift from God. Wow, what a blessing. More on her later! BUT for NOW... let's talk stamps, shall we?!

"Winter Cheer" is available for purchase at Papertrey Ink on Sept. 15
>> It is a fabulous grunge/vintage set with many versatile stamps-- retailing for $24.

I think I am going to get a LOT of use out of the snow flurry blackground stamp (and why not use it year-round?! Perfect for a masculine card!) I love the color combo of the light pale blue with silver and the PTI Pure Poppy ink.

Get ready for some more "Winter Cheer" coming up each day of the count down!

Full of Cheer,

Tiffany

Father's Day!!

2011-06-16T15:23:00.005-06:00

Crafted by my three year old son with love for an amazing daddy!!!

Below is a card from me for my hubby!

Hope you have an awesome Father's Day!!

Worthy of Praise

2011-05-27T09:36:00.005-06:00

Hello dear bloggers,
I hope you are enjoying some lovely summer wherever you are. I have been at the pool almost every day getting my little guy to swim. It's been really fun and rewarding teaching him myself. Plus he takes great naps and I get a tan out of it! :) Everyone wins! I know this is late, but the soft summery colors might inspire you for a project you have coming up. These are all different cards made for the mothers in my life earlier this month. I had the same color theme and sentiment, but tried to give each other a little different spark to it.

PTI Colors featured are Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist, Berry Sorbet, and Ocean Tides. I just LOVE this combo!

Stamps and die featured are all from my "Embellishments" stamp set. I love creating 3-D embellishments with the die and stamps from this set. :)

Sentiment was typed up with some of my favorite fonts and features a verse from Proverbs 31. I have some great mommas in my life and they very much live up to the example of a Proverbs 31 Woman.

Time for a trip to a local farm to pick up some local honey and fresh produce. :)

Have a HAPPY weekend!

Smiles and lots of SUNSHINE,

Tiffany

You are my SUNSHINE!

2011-05-16T07:12:00.005-06:00

Hi there bloggers!
I hope you had a wonderful weekend! Mine was full of great family time! Worship at church on Sunday, lunch on the porch with a lovely breeze, resting by the pool while my son and husband splashed around, dinner with friends, and a small overdose on fresh baked banana bread! AND... on Saturday we went shopping and picked out fabrics for the baby room! Our last ultrasound confirmed that we ARE STILL having a girl! :) (It was a bit questionable last time we were there.) My wonderful mother-in-law will be making a bumper and dust ruffle for the baby! Hooray! And I have a lovely array of greens and purples for my little lady's nursery. :) So exciting!

Since last week we had lots of PTI release stuff for my "Est. 1776" set, I still have yet to share some Mother's Day cards with you! Today was a sweet little project! I have to admit that I did not make this card myself. A family friend from our small group wanted to make a card for his wife. They have a one year old boy, and the father wanted to make a card from their son. So, I designed the card with a child-like feel to it since it was coming from their little boy. But I had the husband assemble and create. He takes directions well, don't you think!? He did the stamping, cutting, adhering, glittering, and even the sewing! Super props to this young dad!

>> PTI colors featured are Hawaiin Shores, Summer Sunrise, Raspberry Fizz, and Simply Chartreuse.
>> The sentiment was made on the computer. And stamps were a Walmart clearance treasure from a couple years back. I always turn to these happy little flowers- a relaxed little go-to stamp set. :)

Hope you have a day filled with SUNSHINE and LOVE!

Smiles,
Tiffany

PTI May 2011 Count Down, day 5

2011-05-13T23:59:00.000-06:00

Greetings to all my blogging buddies!

Can you believe it!?! Just one more day until the PTI May release! Woo Hoo!

I have been so excited to read the feedback from my blog and other DT members on how much you already love the "est. 1776" stamp set! There are many versatile features you can use year round and also some thoughtful sentiments- and don't forget the great Americana images! I love this set!

>> "est. 1776" releases on May 15 at the Papertrey site for only $15

>> Don't miss the other count down days! Day ONE, Day TWO, Day THREE, and Day FOUR
This card features a white base with PTI colors: Smokey Shadow, Pure Poppy, and Ocean Tides. I thought the stitching gave it a relaxed feel.

In honor of the arrival of summer, as well as my stamp set releasing, I have filled my fridge with summer time blackberries and raspberries, and there is a HUGE watermelon chilling in the fridge as well. :) Let the summer fun begin!

Sending Hugs and Smiles,

Tiffany

PTI May 2011 Count Down, day 4

2011-05-13T19:09:00.005-06:00

Hello dear bloggers,

My apologies for the late posting today... Blogger has been having issues and was not letting anyone sign in or post their stuff! eek! Don't they know it's count down week for PTI?!?! :)

Here are a few cards utilizing the ALL NEW "est. 1776" stamp set which I designed exclusively for Papertrey Ink.

>> "est. 1776" will release on May 15 at the Papertrey site for ONLY $15!

>> Check out the other count down days from my blog:

>> DAY ONE

>> DAY TWO

>> DAY THREE
This card features a white base with PTI colors: Smokey Shadow, Pure Poppy, and Enchanted Evening. Simple but spirited. :)
This card features PTI: Enchanted Evening, Pure Poppy, and Ocean Tides.
Hope you are having a lovely week! I just got back from a family vacation to Orlando, FL (My old college stompin' ground!) We took my son to the Universal theme parks for two days and we had a BLAST! No lines, great weather, and plenty of "Dippin' Dots" for all to enjoy. My son's favorite ride was the E.T. ride at the original Universal Studios park (though he did ride the Woody Woodpecker roller coaster SIX times with his dad! Yay for an awesome Daddy!)... SO in honor of our son's favorite ride, we busted out the VHS tape and watched the classic "E.T." movie together as a family. A perfect way to end our vacation!

Cheers!

Tiffany

PTI May Count Down, day 3

2011-05-11T17:29:00.000-06:00

Hello dear bloggers!

I hope you have been enjoying Nichole Heady's blog posts for the Papertrey Ink May release! I must say that I totally LOVED all of Nichole's samples using my "est. 1776" stamp set. Just awesome! It definitely throws me into a patriotic mood. I thought today I would share a card to showcase the versatility of this set. I have heard many of you mention that you love the distressed stars and stripes... and they really are useful for a bunch of other options as well.

>> "est. 1776" releases on May 15 at the Papertrey site for ONLY $15.

>> Check out the previous days of Count down: DAY ONE, and DAY TWO

I DO love these stars... so perfect for so many occasions! And speaking of occasions, I just celebrated my brother's graduation. Just to brag for a moment, my "baby" brother is a musical genius and is graduating top of his class with a Master's in Musical Conducting from the University of South Florida. His graduation day was Friday, May 6, and just hours before he graduated he was offered an amazing job at a very classy prep school in Tampa, FL. I am BEYOND PROUD of him! SO, this card embraces his school colors, a musical theme, and some lovely distressed stars from "est. 1776". These stars would definitely compliment the "Grunge Me" and "My Hero, My Dad" sets that released last month, too.
Many Congrats to my uber-talented brother! And I hope you find yourself a bit more inspired today for thoughtful, crafty ways to get your stamping groove on! :)

Sending Smiles, Tiffany

PTI May Count Down, day 2

2011-05-10T21:12:00.005-06:00

Hello Everyone!

Here are a few more peeks from my new PTI stamp set: "est. 1776". Many of the sentiments will bring the sounds of familiar patriotic tunes to your ears... "America, the Beautiful" being one of those I keep humming to myself. SO, here are some cards with inspiration that reflect those themes.

"est. 1776": will retail for $15 and release on May 15 at the Papertrey Ink website.

>> Check out the DAY ONE count down post with a fun patriotic scrapbook page.
Details, Details!

>> PTI colors include a combo that I just loved! Enchanted Evening, Teracotta Tile, Simply Chartreuse, and Summer Sunrise. Perfect for summer without going all out on the red, white and blue theme.

>> Photos were just a google search of "Pikes Peak" a 14000+ foot peak that is a huge attraction in Colorado Springs. It was from this peak that the woman who wrote "America The Beautiful" was inspired. These mountains inspired the words... "purple mountain's majesty."
This card has a random blue card stock plus a PTI Harvest Gold to compliment. These cards are simple and focus on the beauty of our country (also Pikes Peak) to bring awe and inspiration to the card. Using an inspirational photo like this is perfect if you want to make a set of cards for someone. Simply print off 4x6 prints of the recipient's favorite location and manipulate the photos as you choose.
Have a happy night and hope you will hop on back soon for more inspirations using the "est. 1776" stamp set!

cheers, Tiffany

PTI: May Count Down, day 1

2011-05-09T18:46:00.009-06:00

GREETINGS!!

I can't believe it is time for the Papertrey Ink May Count Down! AND, I am thrilled to get to share with you projects this week from my new stamp set! I am honored to introduce to you: "est. 1776"... a one sheet stamp set with oodles of possibilities!

>> "est. 1776" will release May 15, 2011 at the Papertrey Ink site.

--- Retail Value: ONLY $15

I love the way this set transitions so perfectly between card making, general crafting, and of course SCRAPBOOKING! I will be sharing some cards throughout the week, but I thought I would kick off this count down with a scrapbook page.
You might be starting to notice that I am all about grunge and distressed images. I just love it! And what better than having distressed images for a PATRIOTIC AMERICANA THEME. If I actually had anything that was established in 1776, I am sure it would look worn and loved. So the stars and stripes, as well as eagle, larger stars, and liberty bell all have that fabulous distressed look.
A note about my page... This set is perfect for remembering 4th of July memories (not to mention the many other options: Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, and trips to national monuments, or honoring our troops). This page is dedicated to our 4th of July family dinner last year in 2010. It was very special because nearly all the family ( and bundles of little cousins) gathered together in Colorado Springs to celebrate. We played on the mountain, splashed in the creek, cooked some delicious food, and enjoyed the wonderful fellowship of family. It was also special because after a year of battling cancer, my Papa, was able to come to Colorado (one of his favorite traditional vacation spots). My papa died just a few months later, so the summer of 2010 will always be a special time to remember.
Many of the elements are perfect for making creative tags to use on gifts, place cards at dinner, or as embellishments on cards. I love the look of old tags to add and layer on a project.
I hope you have enjoyed getting a peek at this new stamp set! I would LOVE to hear what kind of projects you might use this set for! There are so many options and it is so great to ACTUALLY have the right set of images and sentiments to fit your Americana needs!
Looking forward to more fun count down projects ahead!

HUGS!

Tiffany

PTI Make-IT Monday

2011-05-01T17:29:00.006-06:00

Hello Everyone! I am getting my Make-It Monday post in just the nick of time.

I have a lo-o-o-ong list of cards on my to-do list so I should have some fun things to share with you this week. I can't believe how many birthdays are in the month of may! Half my small group, several friends from Florida, by beloved sis-in-law, my Grandma... the list goes on! So many people I love dearly! AND, my brother is graduating from USF in a few short days. Oh. yes, and Mother's Day is around the corner. PLUS... I have a new stamp set releasing this month! Woo Hoo! This is a set that I JUST LOVE! And is SUPER necessary in the PTI stockpile of awesome stamps. :) I would love to give hints... but I will have to wait till later in the week! :)

I DO love how Nichole can take her little sharpie pen and, with the greatest of ease, snazz up a card with her clean lines and borders. Just love it! Today I made a card using my "GRUNGE ME" stamp set for a gal who has a birthday coming up. :)

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> PTI colors feature Dark Chocolate, Kraft, Raspberry Fizz, and Simply Chartreuse.

>> Stamps are from my "Grunge Me" set which just release last month!

>> I like the flair of pink lace to add a feminine touch. AND this girlfriend of mine always has a classy way of incorporating pearls into her wardrobe, SO I thought of her and just had to dazzle the card up with some pearls as well.

>> Below you will notice that I used my scorepal to create an outer border just around the marker lines. I thought it was a nice touch to double up the border.

Hope you all had a lovely weekend! We had fabulous weather... and for once, if I had to choose sitting on my porch or stamping... I kinda want to go for the porch! (Gasp! Please don't think less of me! The weather is just so nice!) None the less, I will be sparking up some creating flames this week and look forward to share more stuff you later on!

JUST a FEW MORE DAYS till the May Countdown!!! Woo Hoo! Can't wait!

with Grace,

Tiffany

Easter Sunrise in Grunge!

2011-04-22T06:33:00.006-06:00

Greetings dear bloggers! It's Good Friday, and I have just enough time to get my Easter card up to share with you all. AND, I must say this is my FAVorite Easter card I have ever made. Though I DO love all the traditional images, there is not a single bunny, chick, or colored egg on my card! And I think I quite successfully integrated the Grunge theme from my recent stamp releases.

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Colors: (Oh how I love all this color on one project!) Hawaiin Shores, New Leaf, Spring Moss Raspberry Fizz, Pure Poppy, and PTI white.

>> The sentiments (inside and out) were made on my computer. I had ten cards to send out across the country to family so printing on my PTI cardstock helps save some time.

>> Stamps used were from "Grunge Me" and "My Hero, My Dad".

I loved the grunge effect on the cross I made. I used Raspberry Fizz with a few small splats in Pure Poppy to give the cross a unique look. Hopefully it's not over the top, but it reminds us of the blood Jesus shed on the cross for the sake of offering us FREEDOM in HIM.

AND, how about my awesome gradient paint job? Kind of looks like an Easter morning sunrise! :) I will have to show a tutorial on how I achieved this look, but basically it was a make-shift stencil, some kids washable paint and a sponge. SUPER easy and fast, and adds gorgeous life to the card. :)

I also like the little humming bird, delicately hovering around the cross. If I had a tiny butterfly that might have looked appropriate, too, but I think the peaceful little bird makes the same statement in a less conventional/predictable way!

The inside of the card had similar pieces too coordinate with the card.

Here's a pile of cards before they got send out in the mail! I pray you have an AMAZING Easter this! I LOVE all the chocolate, colored eggs, flowers, and frills of the day- and most of all, I love the always timely reminder that God LOVES you like Nobody's Business, and HE has Conquered all Darkness and Death. May we embrace and LIVE in those truths today!

Happy Easter to You all!!!

Nothing but Grace,

Tiffany

P.S. Check out Betsy Veldman's Awesome post featuring my Embellishments stamp set and some adorable colored eggs!

WINNERS CIRCLE!!!

2011-04-16T09:28:00.002-06:00

Hello Ladies!

As promised... it's time to announce some lucky winners!! My hubby picked random numbers and the gals are the WINNERS! Congrats!

Thanks so much for blogging with me this week. I hope you will keeping hopping by in the future! You all have been such an encouragement and full of fun feedback and ideas! I don't want to break any PRI secrecy rules... BUT I debuting a new stamp set NEXT month... SO... some of your awesome suggestions might be closer to your shopping cart than you think! :)

WINNING the new "GRUNGE ME" set:

Deb C wrote:

"I would use Grunge Me the most! It'll fill a gaping hole in my stamp inventory right now for pre-teen and teenage boys and well, all guys LOL!"

WINNING the new "My Hero, My Dad" set:

Rachelle wrote:

"I am loving the grunge! Your samples are awesome. I would love to see more textures much like the corrugated cardboard look, burlap, canvas, and tattered paper for example. As for themes I think a birthday or music set in grunge would be awesome."

Congratulations Deb C and Rachelle! Please email me with your mailing information so I can get your stamps sets sent your way! I can't wait to see what fun things you create!!! My email is: Tiffany@tiffanypastor.com

Have a great weekend to you ALL!!!

SMILES,

Tiffany

Introducing GRUNGE ME and My Hero, My Dad (Day 5)

2011-04-14T05:48:00.008-06:00

Hello Ladies! I will skip right to the prize... since my blog post is late in coming- you deserve a treat for your patience. See details below to win your own set of "My Hero, My Dad"!!! :) We are featuring cards with my stamp sets RELEASING TONIGHT AT MIDNIGHT!

GRUNGE ME: retails at $15 at the Papertrey Ink website

My Hero, My Dad: retails for $24 at the Papertrey Ink website

Check out the sidebar to right on this page for recent posts featuring fun designs!

I love the color combo on this card. The cool thing that I hope you have been seeing is that the grunge and distressed style pretty much works seamlessly with all color combinations! ( I haven't tried it out with pastels, but I am sure a crafty mastermind could pull it off.) Bright colors, dark colors, muted colors, tone on tones, boy colors, girl colors. (I am starting to sound like a Dr. Seuss book!) They all work and the grunge graphics bring great life to all of them. :) This card has a bit of a modern feel with cut out frames and mesh to add a lot of clean lines. I just wanted to show some different ways to use the sentiments even on the outside of the card. And I love the fresh colors from PTI: Enchanted Evening, Spring Moss, and New Leaf. The card below features: Ocean Tides, Dark Chocolate and the mesh is a match to the Teracotta Tile. This card brings up my...

GRUNGE DESIGN TIP OF THE DAY: It's all about FRAMING!

Keep your focal point clear and use grunge elements to frame it, not distract. A LOT of grunge design these days hinges on "messy frames" but it's still all purposeful. The card above has the simple framing with the circles around the sentiment strip. If I was going all out I might had some of the grassy elements, stripes, and splotches in coordinating colors to make it more interesting. Utilizing the corner of your frames is a nice option, too.You can add swirls bouncing of the edge... and symmetricality is not a priority in this style... just make sure it feels balanced and the elements tell your eye what is most important to look at. I think I will make a fun card that is ALL OUT GRUNGE for you on the release day to demonstrate. The lovely thing about framing your card with your stamps is you don't have to have tons of layers to make it look interesting. See how simple this card is? Yet it feels complete. You have the power of making a designer edgy paper, but you have control to utilize elements for the best of the project. No compromise! I love that!

It's PRIZE TIME! Leave a Comment on my blog... and here's what I want to know... if you have have a themed set with a grunge twist... what would it be? A holiday? Any specific images you would love? Something on the girly side? (I am fishing for hints as I design sets for the upcoming year!) Leave a comment and you are eligible to WIN the "My Hero, My Dad". The winner will be announced on April 16th!! So be sure to check and see if you won!!!

I have LOVED blogging with you all this week! You are such an encouragement and full of ideas!

All Smiles,

Tiffany

Introducing GRUNGE ME and My Hero, My Dad (Day 4)

2011-04-12T21:03:00.011-06:00

Here we are SO VERY close to the Papertrey April Release! I have LOVED sharing fun ideas for my two upcoming sets: GRUNGE ME and MY HERO, MY DAD... both releasing on April 15. :) AND... I have LOVED getting your feedback and sweet words! It's been exciting to hear your enthusiasm for the sets. SOO I extend many thanks your way for brightening my day! This next card IS a girly card (quite obviously). I used both the sets, and a sentiment from my "Embellishments" stamp set that came out a few months ago. I HAD to have a girly card because I am 22 weeks pregnant and we recently found out we are having a GIRL!!! We have an awesome 3 year old son who is full of life, spunk, questions, curiosity, and natural "boyness"... and now the house will even out a bit as I get to dress up my little lady! :) SO this card is for her! And as the sentiment states: I AM thinking about her, quite often! :) Just had to share with you all! PTI colors featured are the fabulous Raspberry fizz, Spring Moss, and New Leaf. The flower was die cut with PTI's Beautiful Blooms 2 die. And stamped to coordinate with stamping on the card base. I gotta say that sweet little humming bird might be my favorite part of the GRUNGE ME set. Just a nice little touch that doesn't call much attention to itself but snuggles right in with the scene. :)

This next card features some fun pieces from My Hero, My Dad. I love the big wooden button that came in a great yard sale bag of buttons I picked up for a buck. :) Love those little treasures! PTI Colors are Summer Sunrise, Dark Chocolate, and Hawaiin Shores.

My sweet three year old boy loves when Mommy has a craft day. He likes to play with my stuff and on this day he INSISTED that we make a special project for Daddy's return from work. Yes, I helped him steady his hand, but this card must be credited to my young artist in the family. :) He chose the colors and design. ( The orange rhinestones were my idea, but he was thrilled to actually be allowed to use them since all the bling in generally off limits.) Below you will see that he had just a few seconds to spare before Daddy walked in the door, so we also decorated the handmade envelope. Needless to day, my son was thrilled, and so was Daddy. :)

Hope you have been enjoying the countdown... And I AM taking baby girl name suggestions.... we are still waiting on the right name to pop up. :) SO any ideas would be welcomed at this point. Stop by again for the last count down day.... more prizes might be headed your way! :)

Nothing But Grace,

Tiffany

Introducing GRUNGE ME and My Hero, My Dad (Day 3)

2011-04-11T17:25:00.011-06:00

Here we are again showcasing some fun projects featuring my two new stamp releases! :) Both sets will release on April 15 at the Papertrey Ink website. >> GRUNGE ME: retails at only $15

>> My Hero, My Dad: retails at $24 This card just felt so fun and summery to me! I loved utilizing the PTI impression plate for an awesome coordinating look. The PTI color combo is Summer Sunrise, Harvest Yellow, Simply Chartreuse, Hawaiin Shores, and Raspberry Fizz. I was trying to go all masculine on this card, but just couldn't resist the tiny strip of Raspberry Fizz. ( I am sure a confident man wouldn't care too much! :)

I LOVE the way this card came out. This whole stamp set was inspired by my dad. He has been a true hero in my life. He's always there when I need help, advice, or encouragement. And since I was a little girl, I have always said: "I have a great dad!" It was sort of a slogan for me, or just another way to say "I love you".

The corugated cardboard adds so much life to this card, and the metal clip is a nice touch, too. You will notice I stamped up the orange and the blue cardstocks with images from "My Hero, My Dad". Distressed circles are a go-to that I keep pulling out from the "Grunge Me" set. PTI colors featured are Enchanted Evening, Orange Zest, Ripe Avocado, and Spring Moss.

Below, the inside of the card has some orange zest stamping and then some of my favorite sentiments. My dad is truly a man of great integrity. These sentiments cherish that quality which is better learned by example than taught with empty words.

Anyone ready for a PRIZE?!?!?! I think it's about time, don't you? Leave a comment on the blog and tell me which stamp set you would like to use the most and why... A randomly selected blogger will WIN either GRUNGE ME or My Hero, My Dad... It will be YOUR CHOICE! So leave a note and cross your fingers... this could be your chance to win!!

>> The Winner will be posted on April 16. So stop by to see if you won!

All Smiles, Tiffany

Introducing GRUNGE ME and My Hero, My Dad, (Day 2)

2011-04-10T17:44:00.011-06:00

Hello, Hello! Time for some more ipsiration from the upcoming Papetrey Ink April release! ....................... GRUNGE ME: retails at $15 on the Papertrey site. My Hero, My Dad: retails at $24 on the Papetrey site.

GRUNGE ME is the stepping stone for a graphic designer to gracefully take charge in the stamping world. As a graphic designer, I know how hard it is when I feel limited by my stamp options. (Such limitations don't exist on my computer.) GRUNGE ME takes the limitations and throws them out the window. And working on these projects has reminded me of how FUN stamping really is! To have the control of the colors, the and image combos is a blast! AND, believe it or not, but the satisfaction of creating my own art actually sped up my process... Instead of looking for more and more elements to throw together, I felt more satisfied with the simple cards because I had more creative input... when it's all said and done, I love having more time for more projects, and this stamp set did just that! I popped out three totally different cards in 45 minutes... when does that ever happen?! :)

This was a combo of elements from My Hero, My Dad, and the sentiment from Grunge Me. My three year old son recently found our old GameBoy (remember from like 20 years ago?) and I guess I had Tetris on my brain and thought it could be a nostalgic feel for any of those video game boys who still have their old Nintendos in the closet (my husband being one of them!) It's a simple card, but a little glitter on a few of the "tetris blocks" went a long way. :)

Here's a simple preview for "My Hero, My Dad".... I love the green tones, and my favorite part of the card has to be the staples holding the twine in place. For some reason it makes me think of a man saying: "Oh just get the stapler, that'll fix it." (Whether they are talking about household needs or fixing a child's boo-boo... staples always seem to be a go-to on a man's list of fix-it options.)

GRUNGE DESIGN TIP OF THE DAY:

Use practical stuff... if you are making a project for a guy, look into his world and choose elements that reflect his life. Maybe you inspect the garage and use a torn strip of sand paper, specialty tapes, or fishing wire, metal washers, or cardboard. Men love the feel of textures in their hands... so don't be afraid to raid their space a bit and cater to their style. :)

I can't wait to share more fun stuff coming up this week! Keep returning for more awesome cards and projects that will leave you inspired!

Check out Nichole's and Betsy's blog to see more ideas for this stamp set! You will love them!

All Smiles, Tiffany

GRUNGE ME Count Down Day 1

2011-04-09T18:54:00.007-06:00

WOW! The April Count Down for Papertrey Ink is finally here! AND guess what?! I have TWO stamp sets releasing this month!!! In APRIL, PTI is going to celebrate the masculine mystique in the craft world.. which is PERFECT for my stamp sets... >> My Hero, My Dad is a stamp set honoring the men in our life. (Hop on by this week for peaks from this set!) >>GRUNGE ME is a fabulous go-to set for those of you embarking in the fabulous world of grunge! GRUNGE ME: releases on April 15, 2011 in the Papertrey store. >>Retails at $15 In the days to come, I will be giving some DESIGN TIPS for those embarking in the grunge world. This style may be new and scary to some crafters, but it's really not that hard to master. It's actually harder to mess up with this style than it is to perfect it. :) ............................ "GRUNGE ME" Tip of the Day: BALANCE!! Grunge elements are intended to be accents, so balance them out our straight lines and geometric shapes. A bit of splatter goes a long when and stands strong as an accent piece when coupled with squares, rectangles, circles, and grids. Clean lines match up nicely with the raw, messy nature of many grunge elements. An easy way to get your feet wet is start small and simple. Take a regular sketch for a project and look for natural places to insert a few elements. ........................... DETAILS, DETAILS! >> PTI colors featured are Ocean Tides, Dark Chocolate, and Spring Moss. >> Stamps are all from "GRUNGE ME" releasing soon! >> Navy Mesh creates a nice geometric balance along with the circles on the base and grunged circles creating a larger frame for the sentiment. >> I can't resist a pop of orange color these days. Just love that color! And great for the "guy card" needs on my to-do list. :) I layered up some fringe and a strip of twine for a two-tone look. No bows, just keepin' it simple today. ................................ Be sure to stop by in the upcoming count down days! I can't wait to share some fun techniques with new textures, paints, and ideas for "man up" our cards a bit!! PLUS, you never know when prizes will be given away this week... I have some fun things up my sleeve for you all! Happy Count Down and See ya tomorrow!!!! All Smiles, Tiffany

Birthday Inspirations

2011-03-22T07:43:00.006-06:00

Hello bloggers!

It has been a crazy and full two weeks! This card was made to honor my mother-in-law, Gail. I was waiting for her birthday to upload it on my blog... and on her birthday we got word that her husband, (my hubby's dad), has been diagnosed with large cell lymphoma. It appears to be in stage 1 and the family is being proactive to change our diet. Eating organic, cutting out sugar, and juicing carrots like crazy. :) John and Gail are sticking to the new diet to help him better fight the cancer, and we are choosing to let this be a good wake up call for us as well. So we are trying to be more mindful of what goes into our bodies and how to make preventative changes.

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Today John gets his port in (right now actually) and later this afternoon he will have his first chemo treatment. We have great hope and trust that John is in God's hands. :) And we are expecting wonderful things ahead.SO, back to the card...

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Colors include Harvest Gold, Dark Chocolate, and New Leaf. We will also see some PTI flair with the Edgers die, and my sentiment and floursi from "Embellishments.

>> The happy little bird is from the SLICE "Vintage Findings" cartridge. I used the pink glimmer mist to add some depth, and it seems to coordinate nicely with the PTI Melon Burst colors. I used Copics to color the branch and leaf, and the brown bling was a nice sparkle, too.

>> I Love this extra wide lace! It's about 2 inches wide and jsut lovely! A fabulous Walmart find! :)

>>The FLOWER, was a fun little creation. I scallop punched some vellum, stamped it with sentiments from Embellishments, then sprayed it with the glimmer mist. I curled it up, add a button and some CTMH waxy flax (colored to match) and I also added some popup pieces to help maintain the 3D effect.

Hope you all are having a sunshiny day! Let your spirit be lifted today as we release worry into the hands of our Creator. He's holding it all together. Let's walk in peace and faith today!

Smiles, Tiffany

2011-03-08T09:01:00.004-07:00

Hello everyone! It's a sunny day in Southport, and I have a house to clean and cupcakes to bake before my small group today... but there's always time for a "crafty getaway", right?! Well, this is a card for my brother-in-law. Happy Birthday shout out to Luke! I figure he doesn't frequent my blog much so it's safe to showcase his card before he receives it in the mail.
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I love the Make-It Monday challenge from the PTI crew this week... I love distressing, and am not sure why I have not used my scissors for this technique more often! So refreshing to get those ideas and creative reminders. :)

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> Papertrey colors always seem to match my stash so perfectly. Orange Zest base with Simply Chartreuse made a nice blend with the color scheme.
>> Of Course, you don't want to miss the details with from my EMBELLISHMENTS stamp set. The flourish was stamped and die cut, and then the sentiment seemed most appropriate for the outside of a birthday card.
>> The pattern papers were scraps from a We R Memory Keepers pack from years ago.
>> I distressed the edges of the large gray background piece as well as the hand made banners. I inked the edges to make the distressing more obvious.
>> The navy mesh adds a great masculine flair that I will need to bring out and use more frequently.
>> Crochet thread with gave a soft touch, bobbles in the corners frame it up a bit. Stitching added some abstract edginess, and I love the flits of orange texture popping out from behind the polka-dot banner.

The messy house awaits me... though I have already cleaned up my craft area, so somehow that makes me feel more at peace. A clean table is always welcoming me back to find solace in a little creative time. :)

LIVE the DREAM!
Love Tiffany

You Make My Day BRITE!

2011-03-03T14:47:00.006-07:00

Hello Sweet Bloggers!
Thanks so much for stopping by to see another bright and cheery post with some Rainbow Brite Nostalgia. :) If you are looking for details on the elements of these cards along with the "Make-It Monday" challenge, just check out the previous posts from:
Rainbow Day 1, and Rainbow Day 2.

This card was a inspired by what I called the "Debbie Olson Style". I love her blog! Her style is clean cut, with bold colors, usually an adorable frame and a bow offset to keep your eye moving. SO, with my "blog hero" in mind, this is how the card came out. :) And it turned out to be one of my favorites! :)

This was the card I first made for the Make-It Monday challenge... I loved the "Shine Brite" sentiment and youthful nature with the felt and crochet elements. :)

I have been having a fabulous couple of days lately. (It's so nice when your body is healthy and functioning well! I am acutely aware and grateful!)

...

Been having good quality time with my son. (Even in the craft room. He is so adorable and curious... and he generally makes a mess but enjoys himself.) Also enjoying some rest... trying to close my eyes a bit while the little guy naps. AND, I have been loving watching our seeds sprout! Noah and I have been working on a flower garden. We planted seeds all in the front bed, and have a lot of seeds in little pots as well. His first pot really started to bloom and seeing his amazement was PRICELESS. Wow. So cool. We have been watching little green sprouts pop up, and though we are still weeks away from seeing blooms, the process is very fun! :)

...

Have a weekend... I will be back soon with more creativity to share in a bit!

Until, keep smiling, keep loving, and sing while you are at it!

...

Love Tiffany

A BRITE Day!

2011-03-01T07:19:00.005-07:00

Hello sweet bloggers!
Here's another nostalgic treat to share with you... The cards showcased this week were inspired by the challenge from last week's PTI Make-It Monday. :) Once again I took the glitter challenge and ran with it! SO, the idea of using all the colors and then the collaboration with one of my favorite childhood "friends", Rainbow Brite became a DELIGHTFUL afternoon of creativity in my craft room.

This sentiment was the one that first came to my mind when I was thinking of making a Rainbow Brite card. I love that it speaks to the essense of the art, and hopefully spreads spring time light to those who who receive the card.

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Ink features Hawaiin Shores and Pure Poppy, and the eyelet lace border.

>> My clouds were cut with my SLICE from the "Remember This" cartridge.

>> Rainbow Brite was a digi google search.
>> I love the orange crafty ribbon... great texture. :)

Well, I've got some more fun Rainbow Brite cards coming your way in the next few days. :) Then I have to get to work on my next Make-It Monday challenge with Fun Foam... And I have several family birthdays coming up in March, so I will have more fun cards to share with that, too!

Hope you have a BRITE day!

Love, Tiffany

2011-02-27T15:07:00.005-07:00

TA-DA!!!! The Papertrey Ink "Make-It Monday" deadline is a whole 12+ hours away and I am already posting pictures! Hooray for me! :)
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I must say I am totally looking forward to the Make-It Monday challenges because it will help me get out my ruts and and try some different tricks on my cards. :) THIS particular challenge was right up my alley! I have used the glitter strips technique before, but it was fun to think of a new way to showcase my glitter. :) I DO love glitter so very much! And this week I have had new bonding time with all the pretty colors I have been ignoring for far too long.

SO, I decided I wanted to go all out and create a rainbow with my glitters... and then little 'ole nostalgic me thought of a favorite childhood "buddy"... RAINBOW BRITE! Who wouldn't want to get a card adorned with the sweet little girl who spreads color and cheer to the world. :) SO, I may have gone a little overboard... I made FOUR cards with my featured "guest model". :) And I will be sharing them all week. Each have fun sentiments, colors, and layouts. :) Be sure to hop back over here to see more Rainbow Brite joy!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Ink colors are the FABULOUS "Hawaiian Shores" and "Pure Poppy".

>> Of course I used a nice array of glitters my mega combo pack from Martha Stewart. Such great colors in there!

>> My Rainbow Brite image was simply found via a google image search and printed on the computer along with the coordinating sentiment.

>> Fun clouds were cut out with the SLICE "Remember This" cartridge. Texture via my cuttlebug.

>> FELT gave some wonderful texture to this card... yellow and orange with a random stitch, plus lime green die cut with the PTI eyelet lace dies. :)

>> Yep, that's right, I crocheted my pink flower all myself. :)

>> And the pink, yellow, and orange bobbles around Rainbow Brite's feet were the best I could do to make "star sprinkles". ( When I was a little girl, I had a small purple purse for the sole purpose of carrying my imaginary star sprinkles.)

>> I was happy with my "pun" sentiment!

Be sure to stop by again this week for more Rainbow Brite cheer! :)

Give BIG HUGS today!

Tiffany

Papertrey Ink February Blog Hop

2011-02-25T20:15:00.005-07:00

Hi Everyone!
What a crazy week it has been! I was working on files and prep for an upcoming PTI stamp release! Woo Hoo! Then I rewarded myself with finishing up some other deadlines by making a fun PTI order and stocking up on cardstocks, inks, dies, etc.... Then my week ended with some pregnancy complications that ended by back on bed rest for all of today until things get settled. I am just at 15 weeks, the baby seems to be fine, and I am actually feeling a decent amount of movement which is a great encouragement since I have been bound to my bed for 90% of today. :) With that... I totally forgot today was BLOG HOP Day! (Until maybe ten minutes ago!) I had a project sitting out on my craft table that I have been working on bit by bit throughout the week, and it happened to showcase some fabulous PTI scallops! SO, I think I will just slide in at the last minute, then go back to bed and keep reading a new book I just got from another splurge Amazon order.

This card may seem simple, and the reason is because I mass produced it times 12!! This will be a birthday card I have handy for just the right recipients... when living in a new town and making new friends, I consider it quite important to celebrate birthdays! It creates a happy bond and blessing in the friendship. :)

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DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Saves the Day! Spring Moss (still my favorite color!) ink and the Large Scallop Border.

>> Stamps are butterflies from a Martha Stewart pack.

>> Pattern paper was on clearance, and I love the combo of the masculine distressed striped with the sweet butterflies.

>> Copics helped me pull off the coloring for my happy butterfly. :) And a glittery butterfly makes it even more whimsical.

Well, back to my book. My husband ordered it, but when I got sentenced to laying on my back all day, I decided I had every right to snag it. Glenn Packiam has written several thoughtful and refreshing books- and this one is turning out to be quite a gem and inspiration!

Check out Glenn's newest book: LUCKY! Amazon has a cheap price, and even with free shipping we had it in hand within two days! You won't be disappointed!

Happy reading, and crafting!

Tiffany

LOVE DAY 5

2011-02-23T10:54:00.004-07:00

Here's a quick post for another Valentine's Day card I made. This one went to "Yaya and Papa's" house... (that is what my son calls my mom and dad. )

This card features PTI Chartreuse ribbon and Spring Moss cardstock. I stitched the edges, used the cuttlebug for texture, and colored some rhinestones to make it pop. :)

Have a happy day! I can't believe March is almost here! I am looking forward to some spring sunshine. :)

Smiles, Tiffany

LOVE DAY 4

2011-02-17T07:26:00.005-07:00

Well, even though Valentine's Day has passed and the leftover candies have gone on sale... I am still in the mood for sharing some fun lovey cards. This is my favorite one in the batch I made this year. This was the card I made for my sweet hubby! I will have a post later with a project I made for him and a recap on our "Day-O-Romance"... I had fun planning a special day for my man!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Colors include the white base, with Spring Moss and Chartreuse for the fun frame.

>> My SLICE cut out the adorable frame with the "Remember This" cartridge.

>> The pattern paper I found on clearance at Hobby Lobby a while back.

>>The sentiment was made with my hubby in mind on my computer.

>>My fabulous red sparkly swirl was a clearance pack find at Michaels years ago.

>> Single stitching was used around the card base and twice on the cream felt PTI "Eyelet Lace" die.

I didn't want the card to be pink over-kill for my husband... but I thought the fresh pop of red would make a nice statement piece. I love the subtle soft flowers in the pattern paper! And I cut a few extras out and added dimension with glitter and pop-dots.

Hope you are having a fabulous week of LOVE! We enjoyed some awesome chocolate fondue at our small group on Tuesday. Everyone pitched in and we had... Chocolate, pound cake, brownies, cookies, oreos, strawberries, bananas, green apples, pineapple, and a mountain of pink marshmallows. We definitely indulged! What fun!

Smiles,

Tiffany

LOVE DAY 3

2011-02-14T07:01:00.006-07:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!
I pray your day is filled with LOVE! I pray that you feel surrounded by love in your family, friends, and that you also feel overwhelmed by the Love of Jesus Christ today!
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I only have a little bit of time to finish my preparations for my all day Valentine's celebration for my hubby... so I will be keeping this short today!

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> Papertrey Ink colors are "Hibiscus Burst" and Spring Moss.
>> PTI Eyelet Lace die was used on bright green felt and stitched to the card.
>> I used a large doily and cut it in quarters to add a nice accent.
>> Music themed cuttle bug sandwhich adds dimension.
>> Background stamps used were from my "Embellishments" Stamp set in "Spring Moss".
>>Inside has paper to cover the stitching with a scripture verse as an inside sentiment.

These were the beginnings of a PINK pancake feast we had this morning! Pancakes are even more tasty when they are pink! :)

Happy Valentine's Day! Have fun and share some love today!

Smiles,

Tiffany

Love Day 2

2011-02-10T07:20:00.007-07:00

We are getting closer and closer to Valentine's Day and I still have no plans! :) Last year I had an all day Mommy Date planned with my son which was awesome. We had Pink Pancakes that spelled "I Love You", we had girl scout cookies, ice cream with lots of toppings, popcorn, some other goodies, and a fun new movie to cuddle and watch. :) My husband was out of town that day, so I made it special with my son. This year, I will have to get creative and surprise my hubby with something special. Any suggestions? :)

I Just loved the way this card came out. So fun and bright for spring. I loved this pattern paper, and the flowers on the paper look great with the scallops in the embellishments, too!

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DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Colors are Chartreuse for the sentiment scalloped frame. And Ocean Tides ribbon in satin. I also used one of their cream buttons.

>> I love the Large Scallop Die from PTI to cut the cream felt. Add a soft feel to the card.

>> The Cranberry thread on the button is actually called "Waxy Flax" from Close to My Heart. I LOVE this stuff. I have it in several colors. It's almost like a waxy floss that you can tie, shape, thread, and adjust at you like.

>> I did some stitching around the edge of the base of the card, and did some random stitches on the ribbon to tie it all down. The stitching definitely finishes it off with the fun and crafty feel.

Tell someone you care about them today! You don't have to wait until Monday to share the love!

Love Day 1

2011-02-08T10:32:00.007-07:00

Love Day is on the Way!
>> Yesterday I made a bunch of different cards to send out and hopefully I can get them out today so they arrive on time! I love Valentines Day! It gives me hope for SPRING! Today is a high of 50 degrees with sunny skies! YAY!! I have been praising God all morning for the sunshine since it pretty much poured ALL this past week with standing water, mud, and gloomy skies. SO, this card is nice and cheery for such a pretty day like today!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>>I LOVE the Papertrey Colors! Oh my! And the Chartreuse cardstock base was a perfect match with this BoBunny pattern paper. The scalloped frame is cut in Spring Moss.

>> I designed the sentiment to fit in a 1.5 inch circle punch. (This is actually a sentiment I made for my husband's card, but then I loved it so much I printed more to send to my family, too.)

>> SEWING! Hooray! My sewing machine has been in storage for a year while I was in Colorado, so I was thrilled to pull it out and add some fun detail to the projects. For this card I did a double row of straight stictching around the base and then an addition stitch that swirled in and around both straight lines. Kind of gave a whimsical and relaxed feel. :)

>> I am in LOVE with fat ribbons! I want more but will have to scower the Walmart or make a day trip to Wilmington for a Michaels run! (Those of you who have a Hobby Lobby ten minutes away should count yourself mighty blessed!)

Sending smiles and hugs from your blogging buddy!

Tiffany

Papertrey Ink Anniversary!!

2011-02-05T13:50:00.013-07:00

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY PAPERTREY INK!

PTI has been around for 4 fun-filled years! The products are top quality and innovative- and the crafty gals involved are nothing short of gifted and anointed for the paper arts world. And I am so excited to return as a PTI Stamp Designer for 2011!

A Little about Me:

I am a wife, mom, writer, designer, crafter... and well, there are many other hats I wear, but I will just leave it at that. :) I love spending time with my family, serving the Lord with my church family, working on my current novel, enjoying a good movie, indulging in donuts, and letting my creative juices flow up in the craft room.

>>>> MY STYLE: As a designer I love all things distressed, grungy, flourished... and recently, I love dabbling in the world of Shabby Chic. :) SO, I am finding my heart jumps at the touch of new lace textures and old printed book pages or things like that.

>>>> COMING UP AT PTI: Oh, How I wish I could tell you all things and surprises in store for you this year. I will say that I am thrilled to have many more stamp sets releasing this year than ever before. I LOVE these sets, and I can't wait to share them with you in the upcoming months!

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ANNIVERSARY CONTEST:

If Papertrey is known for anything, (besides awesome products and designers) it's gotta be the fun prizes, giveaways, and contests held each and every month. Well, Nichole Heady, will not be disappointing on this PTI Anniverary.

HOW IT WORKS:

>>>The PTI Stamp Design Team has created a FREE DOWNLOAD of digital stamps for you! As if that is not awesome enough, when you create a project with one of the tags (all of which are designed to fit a 1.75 inch circle punch) and upload it to Nichole's blog, then you are entered to win an AWESOME and UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY!

THE PRIZE:

A randomly chosen winner will have the opportunity to collaborate with Nichole Heady to design a PTI stamp set to be released in May 2011. How cool is that?!!? I know so many of you had a wishlist of stamps. We all had ideas in our head. You know that moment when you think: "Gee, I wish I had a stamp for that!" WELL, now's your chance to make it happen!

Below you will see how I used my Digi-Stamp to make several different cards.

This card features my recent PTI release: Embellishments. It's a very versatile set that can be used in so many ways!

Here's a picture of the whole FREE TAGS DOWNLOAD! Enjoy!
Don't forget to upload your projects to Nichole's blog!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY PAPERTREY INK!!!

hugs,

Tiffany

AWARENESS

2011-02-05T09:03:00.004-07:00

Check out my TRUTH BE TOLD blog for an unsettling story that reveals a connection between the SEX TRAFFICKING OF WOMEN in AMERICA and PLANNED PARENTHOOD.

AMAZING. Stirred me up!

Just wanted to share... I know you all love cards and creativity... but I trust it is ALSO because you love and cherish the PEOPLE in your life as well.

SO, let's CHERISH ALL PEOPLE TODAY!

love and grace,
Tiffany

Clean and Happy Thank You!

2011-02-03T15:46:00.006-07:00

Believe it or not... I am just now sending out my thank you cards for Christmas! Horrible, I know! But I am hoping the late efforts will atleast be well received. (And with first trimester "lag", I think people will extend me some grace.) I am so ready for beautiful spring time weather! And with those hopes, and my new COPIC markers, came the inspiration for this airy and simple card.

The sentiment is from my "Embellishments" stamp set. The stamp image is from "Close to my Heart" I cut out the flowers and popped them up. ACTUALLY, my three year old son contributed a lot of help to this project. He did all the pop dots himself, and (with some supervision) did the tape and glitter along the bottom. Way to develop his fine motor skills, right!?!? Now that's a mom thinking outside the box! :) LOL! The white glitter gave a nice clean shimmer. And I just loved the feel of a fresh, clean card...

Happy Stamping! And keep an eye on Nichole Heady's blog for fun PTI updates. I will be posting on Saturday with fun reveals for the Anniversary Celebration!

Nothing But Grace,

Tiffany

Wedding Wishes

2011-01-31T09:56:00.006-07:00

Greetings dear bloggers!
I can't believe how quickly time flies! I had a wonderful Christmas with several weeks spent in in Florida with the family... and while there we announced that I am expecting a baby! :) With my first pregnancy, I really wasn't sick much at all... and things are quite the opposite this time around. I seem to be getting woozy at night, am a lot more tired, and have very little appetite. All that being said, the effects of my first trimester have been keeping me away from my blog and many other projects as well. This past week was better, though, which gives me great hope! I am eleven weeks and hoping to feel better and better with each new day. :)
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One fine accomplishment over the past few weeks was unpacking my craft stuff. Prior to now, I had been working out of boxes to get urgent projects done. (Not very conducive for creative thinking.) So, now I have gotten organized and excited for some fun crafty projects ahead.
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FEATURED TODAY:
Here is a card I made for a wedding this weekend. What a lovely couple with such beautiful hearts for each other and the Lord. I wanted to do something classy and I think this came out nicely.

DETAILS:
>>I liked the black and white floral background with striped coordinating paper.
>> A splash of sublte color was added with the khaki, pale yellow and green accents.
>> The sentiment was courtesy of Papertrey's Giga Guidelines. (Love that set!)
>> The khaki frame was cut out with my SLICE using a new cartridge I just got for Christmas. I love the "Remember This" cartridge! SUCH GREAT options! Wow! Definitely my new favorite!
>> The rhinestones were a must with flourishes on the base as well as on the frame to add a little two level dimension.
>> I love the soft color the green flower adds with a nice sized pearl to pull the elegant card together.

You will notice the inside, I used several sentiments from Papertrey's "Mega Mixed Messages". I liked the idea of lining them up down the side and framing the inside of the card with rhinestones in each corner. :)

Looking forward to getting back in the swing of things. I have a sweet set of thank you cards to share later this week.

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AND, I am excited to be participating with the PTI Annual Birthday extravaganza coming shortly in February! I will be designing a fun surprise for you so keep your eyes open and ready! :) It will be fun!

Nothing but Grace!

Tiffany

Christmas Glitter

2010-12-02T14:40:00.016-07:00

Christmas is just around the corner! Hooray! I absolutely LOVE this time of year! Even though I have a list of crafty projects piling up, I still want to spend my nights eating treats and watching holiday movies by the glow of my Christmas tree. *Sigh* Though, I haven't been inking up any stamps lately, I have been getting my creative fix while decorating my new home. What fun to be in our new home just in time for the holidays! Last year, we didn't have any room in our temporary housing situation. We did bring our stockings, but that was about it! This year, I had a blast decorating!
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Above you see the view as you walk in my front door. I love my Willow Tree Nativity! I always want people to be greeted with the heart of the holiday as they walk in the door. :) The hallway behind leads to the back of the house with the family room to the left, kitchen table to the left and kitchen to the left before you reach the end of the hallway.

Above is some garland leading to the guest bedrooms hallway. And directly to the right is the "Family Wall" with my new array of family pictures. I need to change the artwork hang at the top. It was Thanksgiving art compliments of my favorite little short person. :) I added garland, bows, a Christmas bear, and new florals to the wall to change it up for the season.

This garland (above and below) is over the kitchen windows that face out to the back yard. My Christmas colors are Copper, Gold, and Burgundy. I would love to have all Copper, Dark Chocolate, and Bright Green, but I am only changing things gradually to ease the budget a bit. :) It's amazing how after nearly 7 years of marriage, I have accumulated so much Christmas stuff... and well, just stuff in general! But that is another topic. :) This garland has lights, which I forgot to turn on for the picture. :)

I love my tree! It is LOADED with glitter, sparkled, and memorable ornaments that represent special parts of our lives!

AND.... drum roll please...... I have a FIRE PLACE!!! Woo Hoo! I love love love it! Growing up we had a fireplace (yes, even in Florida!), but since being married, this is the first time our stockings have ever hung on a real mantle! Hooray! Garland with lights and florals coordinate with the Christmas tree. I love our fireplace- it's so classy, with white trim to match the crown moulding all throughout the house. :)

We also bought a live Christmas wreathe from our neighbor to support a school fundraiser, and I was excited to bring the wonderful scent and fresh look into our home over the fireplace! :) I

On the wall adjacent to the fireplace, is a vinyl wall sentiment we put up. I think it speaks very much to our story, and the way God has always cared for us, even when we didn't know how or when He would do so. And the Christmas Story demonstrates the love within our Heavenly Father's HEART. He loved us so much, that He sent His Son, Jesus, into this world to reveal God's heart to us, and pay for our sins on the cross. What a wonderful reason to celebrate.

Here's a simply table centerpiece, followed by other bits of decor around the house.

A little ribbon and a poinsettia on the lampshade go a long way. :)

I hope you are having a beautiful season! I am so grateful for my many, many blessings, and this is a great time of year to praise God for it!

Cheers, Warm Winter Wishes, and Merry Christmas!

Love Tiffany

Birthday Bits again!

2010-11-18T15:31:00.005-07:00

Hey-ya out there!
I have to be "quick like a bunny" as my husband would say. I am leaving in a few to pick up my brother from the airport for a fun weekend trip. I am sure he is happy to see me, but we all know my son is definitely the draw!

This FABULOUS card was made by my oh-so talented sister-in-law, Cheri, (also a founder of Cruise and Crop). Cheri has AWESOME taste and I love her use of the layered papers. And I LOVE the touch by folding over the paper so it shows both sides! GENIUS! Now you don't have to feel bad about using up your double sided paper! ha!

The inside and back of the card has some sweet touches featuring my "Embellishments" stamp set! Cheri is so good at using the stamps in subtle ways to really add some flair. I love the "You Inspire Me" sentiment over on the left, and she couple my flourishes to create corner borders. Love it! Below you see how she used the flourish as an accent under her signature piece. ;)

Have a HAPPY WEEKEND! Think of me on Saturday and Sunday, I am giving a message on Human Trafficking to all three services at my church here in Southport. I am so excited to share it with the congregation and hope to have clips online soon. AND I will let you know when they have it on there website if you want to watch the whole message. :)

hugs and smiles!

Bits from my Birthday!

2010-11-16T15:19:00.006-07:00

Soooo, I didn't want to wait till next year to share some of the fun birthday cards I have been receiving! I have a whole table full of cards from such dear dear friends and family. I won't lie... I DO love my birthday!

This card was made by my crafty mother-in-law, Gail, of Cruise and Crop. (Have you heard that Cruise and Crop has TWO Michael's Cruises planned in 2011 and many more great options for you to choose from as well!? OK, enough with the shameless plug. :) But I do love to brag on my family!)

Gail made this card with a great Color scheme... Greens, blues, and purples are SO ME! It's pretty much all I have in my closet to wear! :)

AND, did you notice how she used my "Embellishments" stamp set? I love the embossing with the fleur-de-lis as a special emblem! Love that! And how great to use the sentiment "Life is better with you in it" for a birthday card! I know I designed the stamp and all, but it REALLY DOES make you smile when someone gives you a card with that sentiment on it. I hope that life actually IS better as a result of what I contribute each day. :)

Inside Gail used a sentiment from my "Fall Elegance" stamp set. I just LOVE those stamps, too. So versatile!

Well, more cards will be coming your way this week... but I have to run for now. My husband and I are taking "Financial Peace University" by Dave Ramsey at our church and we have class tonight. BOY OH BOY! What a GREAT class! Everyone should take it. Whether you are in debt or living pretty, it really can open your eyes about being intentional with what God puts in our hands. ;)

Blessings and Smiles sent from me to you!

BIRTHDAY WINNER!

2010-11-15T20:47:00.002-07:00

Hello ladies!

I am signing in from my hubby's mac and don't have a picture to display, so I will have to upload new things tomorrow! Sorry for the late post, but I am preparing a message on human trafficking for this weekend, and the day got away from me! I have been working on a video to introduce the topic, and look forward to sharing clips and sometime next week! :)

I DID have a lovely birthday! I will give a recap tomorrow with some card pics. I feel very blessed! 28 is gonna be a great year. :)

SO, I am excited to send along a birthday treat, including my new stamp set "Embellishments" to.......

Lin!

On Nov. 8 at 3:43pm, Lin wrote:

"Great idea to celebrate your birthday all week! Amazingly enough, just a few hours ago I was going through some cards (store-bought ones) , that I have received down through the years, trying to decide whether or not to keep them! Isn't it amazing how a card can bring back the memories? Have a great birthday, and thanks for sharing your goodies!"

And my advice Lin, keep the cards! :) Lin, be sure to email me your address and contact info so I can get your prize in the mail!

Smiles and hugs to all my blogging buddies out there!

Happy Birthday to ME! (and prizes too!)

2010-11-08T08:38:00.013-07:00

Hello dear bloggers!
Once again, I must send my apologies for my absence. On the day of my last post, I heard word that my grandfather had passed away. We immediately drove home to FL and spent a week with family to be a support and honor the memory of my grandfather. When we finally got home it was a whirlwind of decorating and cleaning before having our first little party at our new house.
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But enough of my apologies... I am choosing to celebrate my birthday week on my blog! :) My birthday is tomorrow and even though I haven't gotten my stamping stuff out of boxes yet... I think a celebration is still in order. Often you see me paying tributes to loved ones while showcasing their custom-made card. Well, today I thought I would highlight some of the cards in my personal pile that I can't let go of.
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I have ALWAYS loved getting cards on my birthday! My cards adorned the mantle or cluttered my school desk in my room and often stayed up past the Christmas decorations! :) I love to read the kind words and see who remembered me on my day. AND I have the HARDEST time throwing away my birthday cards! So I often have a little pile from each year hidden in a drawer somewhere. While I am not as organized as I would like to be, and I know there are many other graet cards hidden away, I figured I would share these with you all!
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ABOVE, was a sweet little card from some pals in my Drama Class back in 2000. Remember the days BEFORE cardmaking was a huge industry, and those of us crafty gals would rip up pieces of magazines and bust out the crayons and stickers?! Love those days!

Here we have another card from one my dear dear BFFS! Aww, Julie K. (now Salcedo). She and I were like PB & J throughout high school. She is goofy, silly, creative, loves the Lord, such an encourager, and she always knew how to speak my love language! She gave great hugs and kept my awake through my physics class! God, Bless that woman! Later, though, Julie and I went to UCF together where we faced the world of big town Orlando as two little 18 year old girls from a much smaller town! I retreated to her dorm when needing advice, and I helped her find her car when it was "lost" in the ucf parking garage. Julie was also my maid of honor in my wedding, and such a source of support for so many years! Below is the long note and parade of stickers and silly notes attached that was on the inside of the card. I love her dearly!!
Back in 2008 I asked for a weekend trip for my birthday! I heard that Joyce Meyer was having her FREE conference tour in Tampa, FL and I knew we could crash at my brother's college apartment since he goes to USF. We got a babysitter for Noah over in Tampa for the time we were in the conference sessions. And boy did we have an AWESOME time! Wow! First of all, I was SUPER blessed when one of the conference staff chose me, my brother, and my husband to go backstage and meet the whole Hillsong Band! I was beside myself. My brother was grinning ear to ear, and my husband was sprinting from the parking lot to get there without missing his chance to meet the worship team. I have a picture on my phone of me, Luke, and Darlene, (pictured on the left below) looking all like we are buddies! Yeah, then when I profusely thanked the staffer for hooking us up, she blessed us again with FRONT row seats, on the floor! Boo-YEAH! It was Soooo awesome!
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This conference changed my life! Not because I got super blessed with backstage passes and great seats... but it was the first time I ever heard about HUMAN TRAFFICKING. Joyce Meyer Ministries is doing a LOT to help combat human trafficking, but overseas and in our own country! When they showed the video introducing the topic, I honestly sobbed in my chair for about fifteen minutes. My eyes were opened, and on the way home, I told my husband, "we have to do something about this. We can't just go on living our lives like nothing happened. Something has to change." That was a pivotal moment in my life. I am greatful for all that Joyce Meyer Ministries has done to encourage me and rescue so many others!Here was a fun card I got from my mother-in-law back in 2008. I just CAN'T get rid of it! I love the green flower she cut out with her pazzle, and the Stamping Bella image and sentiment is just so HAPPY. :)AND, below is another card creation from Gail, my mother-in-law. This was my card from 2009.
Last year, I was in Colorado Springs for my birthday. We were living there for the year while my husband attended the NLC, New Life School of Worship. So with ALL my family 2000 miles away, it was sooo nice to get cards and presents wrapped up in the mail! I kept those cards out for a LONG time! I loved the many layers and girly colors on this card! Gail always makes awesome cards! Well, I think that is enough for my parade of cards for today!
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BUT, how can you have a Birthday Party without PRESENTS?!?!
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>> SO, I am giving away a goodie bag with stamping treats AND my new "Embellishments" stamp set!
>> Just leave a comment on my blog between now and Friday, Nov. 12 and you will be eligible for the prize! The winner will be anounced on Monday, Nov. 15!!
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Have a happy crisp and cool week! It's a high of 60 degrees in Southport today, and I am eating pumpkin bread like there's no tomorrow! :)
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

for the BIRTHDAY BOY!

2010-10-24T15:55:00.006-06:00

Hello sweet bloggers!
Can you believe it has been nearly two weeks since I updated my blog!?!? sheeeeesh! What a whirlwind. On Wed. Oct 13, we moved into the new house! Woo Hoo! I keep wanting to pinch myself! I feel so undeserving and completely blessed! The house is beautiful and we have been unpacking to what seems to be no end! :) Thigns are looking more together. My son's room is all set with baseball decor and lots of toys. My walls are still pretty bare, with a few pieces of art up here and there... but everything else is pretty much together. Of course, my room over the garage has become a crazy catch-all! And my husband actually has organized all the extra stuff in our garage. This week i had a big deadline for a graphics project.... and I feel like I am just getting my head above water. :) All that to say, I AM still alive, and doing well!

Today's featured card was made with a special guy in mind. My brother Jeffrey is one awesome dude! He's kind, thoughtful, caring, compassionate, and pretty darn funny. The nice thing is he is one of the few people who actually thinks I am funny, too. :) He LOVES to play with my son. He will make a great daddy one day. He also has a great heart for missions, and desires to serve the Lord with his whole being. I am blessed to have an awesome brother! I love you, Jeffrey!

Details, Details!

>> Papertrey Colors give this card a great masculine feel. I love the New Leaf, and Spring Moss combo.

>>My new "Embellishments" stamp set was used to frame out the edges and create the patterned strip.

>> Cheers to "Close to my Heart" for their awesome stamps providing the sentiment and calendar focal point.

>> How cute are my Tim Holtz accents? I love the tape with musical notes! (Perfect for my brother who has mad skills in the music department!) And I love the metal clip to add a nice manly texture!

>> AND of course, I loved coloring my rhinestones with a little COPIC tender lovin care! :)

Happy Birthday to my dear Brother... and happy happy day to my blogging buddies out there!

For Coffee Lovers

2010-10-11T13:28:00.003-06:00

Hey sweet bloggers!
I hope you are having a fabulous week! I am in the middle of moving into our new house! Woo Hoo! We have some things moved in, and the moving truck with arrive on Wenesday with everything else. It has been sooo fun to see my three year old son rejoice in the new house. He spread toys all over the room. He does a little happy dance down the hallway. He is thrilled that we gave him a special cabinet in the kitchen where he can reach his plates and cups. And he has the biggest grin on his face when we drive up in the car :)
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On Wednesday, I will be finishing up moving out of the apartment we have been staying in and Noah and I will have a little baking party to make pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for all our new friends who will be helping us move. :) (I have been 14 mos without my own oven! I can't wait to get back to baking again!)

This card was made from some friends who are big coffee lovers. And of course we gave a pound of Black Cherry Coffee as well! I like the sentiment from my recently released stamp set "Embellishments". By saying "Life is better with you in it"... was I talking about my friends? Or the coffee? I guess it's safe to say BOTH. :)
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Details, Details!
>>> Papertrey Saves the Day! I LOVE this color scheme! Kraft, Dark Chocolate (Summer Sunrise matches this pattern paper used) and Simply Chartreuse. What a great combo for the fall season!
>>> My focal points are digi-stamps from the FABULOUS Graphics Fairy blog. Just love it! A little coloring added so much to the vintage beauty of these images.
>>> I kept the ribbon with rhinestones and stitching down to a minimum to keep it simple but still look trimmed out.

Well, back to moving! Did I mention my new house has a fantastic finished room over the garage?! A perfect place for my to set up my craft room! I can't wait!
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I hope you all are having LOVELY weather... SouthPort has a gorgeous breeze, bright blue skies, and the leaves are turning colors. I am in Heaven! :)

Smiles,
Tiffany

I love my MAN!

2010-10-04T06:55:00.004-06:00

Hey sweet peeps!

Here is a card I made for my husband when he started his new job. In September he began as the new Worship Pastor at Generations Church in lil old SouthPort, North Carolina. I am so proud of him! And since we were transitioning and expected to be apart for a few weeks, I made him a card for his bedside table with pictures of us. ;)

Papertrey colors... New Leaf, Kraft, and DarkChocolate. And I think the metal clip that says "Family" is the perfect touch.

Today we are headed into town to look at fun things so I can "nest" in our new house. Things like new fabrics, rugs, plates, and some other little specific things on my wish list. :) I am soo excited! So I gotta run, but will love giving updates on the new house. The official move-in date will be Oct 13! Praying all goes well!

Smiles!!

love Tiffany

Ode to Angela!

2010-09-29T17:21:00.006-06:00

Well, if card-making isn't about celebrating the family and friends you love.... then REALLY, why bother?! Today's happy card was made with a special gal in mind. When I moved to Colorado Springs just over a year ago, I didn't know anyone, didn't have clothes to suit the weather, and all I have to say is "Praise God for TomTom!" or I would still be lost. While it was easy to get some scarves and boots to stomp around in the snow, Colorado didn't really feel like home until I met Angela. What a great friend. You know how you just click with someone? She brings out the best in me. She is full of laughter and living a completely passionate life packed with purpose. She IS BRAVE. She can lead worship like nobody's bizness. And she's a sister with a heart for people. It is wonderful to be sharpened by people who are different from you... and then it is like glorious music to be sharpened by someone whose heart beats with yours. This woman fights for freedom in the lives of others, and consequently, I am more free because of what God has done through her.

SO, when I saw this little digi-stamp from "Graphics Fairy", all I could think of was "I love you THI-I-I-I-S Much!" And that just what I think of Angela White.

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Details! Details!

>> BoBunny paper totally creates a sweet ambiance for the card. I loved using both sides of the pattern and cutting out more of the flowers to make coordinating embellies.

>>Papertrey Ink features my FAVorite cardstock and ribbon: Spring Moss.
>> Digi-stamp from "Digital Tuesday" with a little colored pencils and glitter looks fabulous, eh?

Happy Happy Happy Birthday, Angela!

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love and grace to all my blogging babes out there!

...

smiles, Tiffany

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop

2010-09-25T19:20:00.005-06:00

Hello dear bloggers!
I can't believe this is my first time to participate in the monthly blog hop! It seems like every month for the past 6 months I am always out of town, or tied up in work deadlines or something like that. Last month I was moving, and while, I am still in transition, atleast I have some time on my little laptop while my hubby watches football tonight.

THE CHALLENGE:
I loved Nichole's challenge to share a recent technique I learned from another stamper. I LOVE checking out blogs and being inspired. My recent little trick was picked up from the oh-so-amazing Debbie Olson! I saw that she had colored some rhinestones with her fabulous Copic Markers and it matched her project perfectly. No joke, I think my jaw dropped when I saw her post! Oh the joy! Oh the fun! I am totally on a bling kick lately, and the Copic trick just stepped it up to a whole-notha-level!!:) My TRICK: COPIC CUSTOMIZING (on bling and ribbons)

Below you can see the rhinestones in the middle of the hand cut flower (via BoBunny) which were colored to match the designer paper. The pink rhinestones around it AND the three different shades of ribbon were also colored with Copics, too!

Details, Details!
>>Papertrey Saves the Day! I don't think there is any more perfect cardstock than the PTI Perfect Match line! This card base features Hibiscus Burst.
>>BoBunny was the mastermind behind their doublesided papers. Love them!
>>The sentiment is compliments of "Close to My Heart" and colored with Copics, (and rhinestones around it as well.)

Well, I have had a blast hopping on over to see other's fun stuff! Hope you enjoy it, too!

I am officially 17 days away from sleeping in my own bed in my own new house! I will be giving some blog updates on all my moving details. Thanks so much for all your kind words and support. I am looking forward to be delightful fall season as we feel more and more at home in North Carolina! :)

Smiles,
Tiffany

Sticking It Out

2010-09-17T07:28:00.006-06:00

Greetings dear bloggers!
Today I give tribute to my awesome parents! The card above was made to honor their 32nd wedding anniversary! Below you can see my mom and dad from "back in the day"... cutting their cake. Don't they look so cute?! I love Mom's big eyes! And the cake topper pictured was from her mother's wedding, too. I can't begin to say what a blessing it is to have parents who model Christ-like love and servanthood toward eachother. They have been faithful through valleys and mountaintop moments. Mom still laughs at all Dad's jokes, and Dad still whistles at Mom when she walks by. I know my marriage and my view of marriage has been greatly impacted by their love and loyalty to God and eachother. Thanks, Mom and Dad, for sticking it out!

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> The featured card has some PTI touches you won't want to miss. I love the Spring Moss cardstock and Hibiscus Burst saddlestick ribbon. The flower was cut out with the Beautiful Blooms II #3 die. I love that die! And the Ripe Avocado button went so nicely with a fun rhinestone.
>> Don't forget "EMBELLISHMENTS" is now available on the PTI website! The background flourishes on the card are from that set!
>> The fun and fancy frame I printed and colored was from Graphics Fairy.
>> Pattern paper was a bit from BoBunny.

My parents have not only been dedicated to their own marriage, but to ALL marriages! Much of their time is spent counseling with pre-marital or already married couples. They have spent years facilitating incredible courses on marriage. They have also led FOUR MARRIAGE CRUISES where couples comes and revive their marriage with incredible DVD teachings by Jimmy Evans, discussion groups, marriage vow renewals, and lots of fun on the cruise!

Have you ever heard of Jimmy Evans? He is BY FAR, my FAVORITE teacher on marriage. He is so INCREDIBLY insightful, funny, and bold! He is compassionate, honest, transparent about his own faults, but inspires you to have an amazing marriage. Yep, marriage takes work, but it IS worth it! Some of my favorite teachings by Jimmy include "Marriage on the Rock", "Every Great Marriage", and "Indestructible Marriage".

I hope you all have a HAPPY FRIDAY! And if you have a sweetheart in your life, give him a smooch today!

Keep on Smiling!

2010-09-11T08:38:00.005-06:00

Hello dear bloggers!
Wow! I apologize for my sporatic posts lately. I have been living at my parents' house while my husband has been house hunting. We are hoping to get settled in the next few weeks, and I am pleased that the house we are looking at has a lovely space for all my crafting binge moments! :)

My husband is LOVING his new job! Despite the fact that we have been apart for the past two weeks, I can really see how this new job seems to be such a great fit for us. :) I just can't wait to get up there myself and start meeting new friends and getting into a routine.

Details, Details!
>> Papertrey Saves the Day!! You can't miss the PTI Perfect match with my recent favorite color combos! Spring Moss, Summer Sunrise, and Berry Sorbet. I used the Fillable Frames #4 die to create the frame after printing the sentiment.

>> My cuttlebug added some nice texture. This card was made for our cousin who is attending the IHOP prayer semester, so I thought the sentiment and written texture communicated her season of growth.

>> My new "Embellishments" stamp set is featured with the distressed swirl on the PTI Ripe Avocado cardstock.

I crafted this sentiment for our sweet cousin and printed it up on the computer. :)

I hope you all have a fantastic day! I have a bike ride planned with my three year old before the Gator game starts later today!

Keep on Smiling!

Happy Love

2010-08-26T08:55:00.005-06:00

Greetings dear Bloggers!
I can't believe how quickly a week has passed me by! Since last Wednesday... I packed and cleaned my house, took my little doggie in for emergency surgery on moving day. Drove over 2500 miles cross country with my hubby, 3 year old son, 5 pound pup, and the inlaws, unloaded some stuff in NC, went to our new church, headed down to Florida for some time with the family... then kept busy visiting with friends and such. Shwew! I am tired! Though, I will say that I got some crafty time at my mother-in-law's house and made a card for a friend. I will share that one soon. :) I am still in transition. My husband heads up to NC on Saturday so he can start the new job and do some house hunting for us. Hopefully it will only be a few weeks before we can find a place to live and get settled. In the meantime, I am being spoiled with family time in Florida.

This card honors and celebrates my sweet in-laws. John and Gail have been married for 36 years. I still can't believe that they chose to celebrate their anniversary driving cross country with us. Now that's love!

.....

I just LOVE how this card came out!

......

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> My new stamp set "Embellishments" created the distressed swirly border along with the sentiment on the front of the card.

>> I have to give props to "Graphics Fairy" for sprucing my project up with the vintage picture of the cute couple, and the awesome ornate frame! Love that!

>> A few finishing touches include some sparkly glitter on the parasol to really make it pop, but some color on the frame. My cuttlebug added some texture, and a little lace finished things off nicely. :)

Well, I am hoping that even thought I will still be in transition that next week I can get life back into a schedule of some sort. Until then, I pray you have an AWESOME couple of days as we close out August!

hugs and smiles,

Gratitude Beyond Words

2010-08-18T07:45:00.007-06:00

Hello dear bloggers!
Today is my moving day! The house is pretty empty. I am sitting on the floor with my keyboard in my lap. We have nothing left to eat but some string cheese and peanut butter. Ha! It feels like moving day! My family and I will be driving from Colorado Springs to SouthPort, NC over the next few days, so I probably won't be back at my blog until the weekend at best. Until then, here's a card to share. :)

This card was made using my new "Embellishments" stamp set with Papertrey Ink. This little gazebo image came from Graphics Fairy. I love that site! Doesn't it look like a sweet little garden full of peace, beauty, chirping birds, and vibrant flowers?

This card was made for my sweet fouse family. For the past year, while Luke was in school, we stayed in a spacious walkout basement. It was perfect! Two bedrooms, big family room, bathroom, kitchenette, great storage, and even an extra room for me to call my creative studio! Yeah! It has been a wonderful place for us, with low rent and kind people to fellowship with. It has been a unique and wonderful year. We are so grateful for our "house family" who welcomed us with open arms! AND my 'House Mom' is a stamper too! That made it all the more fun!

I used the same fonts from the stamp set to create a special sentiment that fit exactly what I wanted to say. We are sooo thankful for the way God used this family to impact our lives! Thank you, Steve and Thea! We will miss you!

Well, back to moving!! Love and Grace to you all!

Embellishments Release!!!

2010-08-14T22:00:00.003-06:00

YAY!!! The day has arrived! Embellishments is now officially released for purchase at the Papertrey Ink website! Check it out!!!

Well, I had so much fun using this stamp set for release projects that I still have quite a few left over that I couldn't fit in the count down days... so be sure to check out my blog as I bring more projects your way with the Embellishments stamp set.

OK, so, the other day I came skipping out of my craft room with this card in hand and a girlish smile. Sicne I prettty much do this for every little thing I create, my husband didn't hardly turn his head away from the computer. I asked him if he liked the card and his eyes lit up! Ha! He REALLY DID like it! That's when I knew it was a winner! He said it had "Southern Charm". Now, I don't know how southern it is, and since we are moving to North Carolina in like 4 days, I can't blame him for having the south on his mind. I WILL, however, give him credit... I think "charm" is the right word.

Since this card is called "Embellishments", I chose to let it live up to the name. I was inspired by the 3-D look of some other floral embellishments, one of which I used on the card, and tried to make the blue flourish a similar embellishment as well. With my dies and cuttlebug, some pop-up action, glitter, and pearls, I think I pulled it off. :)

How sweet is this little digital stamp from Digital Tuesday? This stamp is called "Fairy 6". And I just love it. I thought the sentiment and image together reminded me of the sweet whispers from a friend, or wisdom from a trusted loved one.

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I think my favorite part of the card is the hand cut frame I made for the sentiment. I just stamped it, and let my scissors have some fun. I love that it is not symmetrical yet still feels balanced and interesting to look at. Would anyone like to see stamps like this? I am wondering if I can work on something fun for next year!

Staying Connected:

This week, I have SOOO loved getting to hear your ideas, your feedback and even stories from your own life. I was so encouraged by your kind words, support for my move to NC and just to connect and see how much we all have in common. I would love to stay in touch! So keep the comments coming or email me and we can connect!

...

AUGUST COUNT DOWN WINNERS:

(Here are the winners from last week's prize give-aways! Please contact me via email at tiffany@tiffanypastor.com with your shipping information so I can mail your prize asap! If you didn't win, check out my blog in the future for monthly prize offers again!)

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Day 2: (first impressions on the Embellishments stamp set)

Marge wrote:

"I'm telling you with the flourishes and dies to cut them out and then some lace/bling and vintage images this is going to sell like hotcakes! Love these samples!"

...

Day 3: (your favorite color)

Kara wrote:

"blue!! my engagement ring is blue, my bedroom walls are blue, my husband's eyes are blue. :)"

...
Day 4: (ideas surrounding masculine card themes)

Jan wrote: (regarding ways to use the flourishes...)

"The dust from a horse in a rodeo? Or a sports car at high speed? With a royal hand of cards? Or a King's Crown?"

...

Day 5:

Sally Watkins wrote:

"Wonderful new set! So many wonderful uses for these images. I am trying to strengthen my vintage and frilly style.This set would be a great tool for this goal. Hope the move goes well and that you enjoy the new community. Thanks for sharing."

Congratulations to all the Winners! And a note to all my blogging buddies, I would love to see links of your projects as you start using Embellishments in your own creative endeavors!

With joy,

Papertrey Ink August Countdown: Embellishments, day 5

2010-08-13T15:03:00.017-06:00

Greetings dear bloggers!

I can't believe we are sooo close to the big PTI release this month! It seems to go faster when I am introducing a stamp set and get to share all the fun ideas... when I am on the other side, waiting with anticipation the week is always so long! AND I must mention that I have LOVED your thoughtful comments and ideas! You have inspired me to get back in the craft room and create!!

SO... Here's a low down on my brand new Papertrey Ink stamp set!!

"Embellishments" will release on Aug. 15 at the PTI website for only $24!
This stamp set includes an incredibly versatile set of distressed heavy flourishes coupled nicely with some awesome sentiments.
Coordinating dies for $8 will also be available for purchase, too!

Check out the other count down days for fun ideas!

>DAY ONE.

>>DAY TWO.

>>>DAY THREE.

>>>>DAY FOUR.

OK, I HAVE to give a disclaimer. I truly wish my photography skills did these cards some justice, but that absolutely do not! In person these cards are absolutely stunning! I love the warm fall colors. There is a rich depth in these cards that seems to have been flattened on the picture, so please bear with me and hopefully you can see the beauty in these cards like to do! :)

THEME: When I began designing the Embellishments stamp set I knew I wanted something vintage. I loved the memories of my grandmother's wallpapers in her house. I thought of the vintage family photos in her hallway. I thought of the ornate frills on her dining room furniture and tapestries. And when I was searching through fonts, I found the perfect match! The handwritten looking font is called "Jane Austen"... now that gets me excited! I love the glorious romances of such fabulous women writers as Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte from the 1800s. I love to hear the beauty of their hearts pouring out page after page. The cards featured today, (though you might see a bit of shabby chic in there) are really tributes to that long lost, but never forgotten era of regal wonder.

Details, Details!

>>>Papertrey saves the Day! No doubt, this is a PTI card all over the place! Perfect Match colors are: Teracotta Tile, Dark Chocolate, and New Leaf satin ribbon.

>>> Using tone on tone for the orange background gave a fabulous wall paper look. And metallic gold ink on the frame adds immediate elegance and detail to the card. I also inked around the entire outer edge of the card to give a vignette effect.

>>>Digital Tuesday's "cameo" digital stamp was a perfect way to pull all the elements together. A little light coloring and it looks just like the softly faded vintages photos treasured in many families' heritage.

>>> I thought that with the digi stamp and sentiment, this card would be a perfect fit for a mother, grandmother, relative, or loving person who invested in your life, taught you along the way, and left you full of inspiration! I know there are many awesome women to whom I would love to send this card.
>>> Oh, yes, and I know I have said it before, but I LOVE the PTI satin ribbon! I loved ruffling it to take advantage of every bit of shine and you can get out of it!

This card has a few more layers and I like the pieces atop each other and slanted slightly askew because it reminds me of maybe the look of a woman's writing desk with inspiration pieces strewn about. I pictured Jane Austen sitting at her desk, with pen in hand, and paper resting beneath her fingers which were surely stained with ink. (See, we are not so different, are we?! ha!) I pictured the rays of sunlight softly crossing through the panes in her window, lighting her view, as the sweet pictures, bits of ribbon, sentimental tokens, and scribbled dreams filled her thoughts with inspiration. Boy, did I just make a messy work space sound romantic, or what?! I wish my husband could look into my craft room and see such beauty in the midst of my clutter! Ha!

I used the same color palate on this card as earlier. Do you ever find you work faster if you make a bunch of cards and stick to the same color schemes?! I know I do! Once again the metallic gold ink goes a long way with this style card. And I couldn't resist using my furry ribbon again! I love that stuff!

The ripped paper on the sentiment reminded me of Jane Austen ripping up pages she was dissatisfied with. There is something raw and beautiful about ripped paper when used within this theme. I think it comes off even stronger than when using it all the time in your every day crafting. :)

Once again, I just thought this "Cameo" digi stamp was so lovely! I love the look in her eyes. I love the waves in her hair. I love the ruffle on her high neck line! Just love it!

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Well, ladies, the next time we meet back here on this blog, it will be PTI Release Day! Hooray!!! Such a lovely day of the month! But Before then...

LET'S HAVE A PRIZE, SHALL WE!?!

>>> Tonight I am giving away an Embellishments stamp set! You've been waiting all week and now it's time to get one for FREE!

>>> Winners for all of this week's prizes will be announced on Sunday, Aug. 15 on my blog.

>>> Just leave a comment about your thoughts on the set, maybe how you like the genre/time period represented in these cards. Do you have a favorite classic book or author? Any favorite vintages photos you can scan, reprint, and use in your crafting?! What are your ideas!?!

>>>I hope you will hop on over to my blog more in the upcoming months. I look forward to sharing more creative ideas, silly stories, and monthly prize giveaways, too! So, keep in touch!!

On Sunday, I will announce the winners and share another super cute card featuring the Embellishments stamp set. It's a perfect card for this week for me... :) Just to make a quick announcement, my family will be moving on Wednesday to the sweet little historic town of SouthPort, North Carolina. My husband will be joining Generations Church as their Worship Pastor. I am so proud of him and excited to make new friends over on the east coast! We have LOVED Colorado Springs, but will definitely look forward to being only a 9 hour drive from our family in Florida. :)

Will be back on the blog soon... until then... be inspired, and live life to the fullest!

Papertrey Ink August Countdown: Embellishments, day 4

2010-08-12T16:16:00.013-06:00

Hey there to all my blogging buddies!
What a fun and full week with all the countdown festivities for the Papertrey August release. I have been so encouraged by your enthusiasm for my PTI stamp set: "Embellishments" which releases on Sunday, August 15!
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If you want to catch up on this week's projects, check out the links below for my countdown postings.
>>>DAY ONE
>>>DAY TWO
>>>DAY THREE
..........AND, Don't forget Nichole's awesome showcase of the stamp set as well!

This card was made with a very special man in mind. Since I was a little girl, my dad was my hero. Even though he was not a firefighter, he did put out a good share of fires growing up. What made him a great dad was not just that he was around to put fires out, but that he watered the foundations of our hearts with quality time, boundless love, unmeasurable generosity, and a blasting firehose of prayer! ha! I truly do have a GREAT DAD! So, while I wanted to make him a birthday card, and at the same time was knee deep in "Embellishments" projects, I decided to merge the two and give you countdown day of masculine cards. I have heard many of you mention the idea of using this set with masculine themes, and I think you are right!!! I almost love this style the most! Happy Birthday, Dad! I love you!

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>>>Embellishments is used with the seamless repeated flourish which I trimmed out to create a fun border. And I really like the color combo with the "Golden Berry Green" glitter from Martha Stewart, red felt, and gray cardstock background. These colors are found in the AtoZ pattern paper.

>>>How great is this fleur-de-lise? I think it has a strong quality about it.

>>>The AWESOME vintage digi stamp is called "Fire 1" from Digital Tuesday.

>>>The sentiment utilizes the same font from the Embellishments stamp set and captures a small picture of my dad through the description below the title: My Hero.
>>> Though it's pretty hard to see in the pictures, I did stamp the border stamp from Embellishments along the bottom gray strip in a subtle gray ink. Hard to see in the picture, but it gave a nice touch to the card in person.

This next card is also very special to me. A dear family friend is headed to France for a year long mission trip with Campus Crusade for Christ. To honor his obedience and faithfulness to love on people and serve God, I wanted to give him a card of encouragement. So, here's another fun look utilizing masculinity with the Embellishments stamp set.

I love the brown and orange combo for this card. You can find orange in the flowers, eyelet lace die, thread tied bow, and rhinestones to the right under the sentiment. These colors seem to fit perfectly for the summer and last all through the fall. :)

You will see the larger flourish stamped around the edge of the background in black and the medium flourished stamped on PTI Spring Moss paper and trimmed for another backround. I also think you could used that image to create the look of ocean waves for a vacation, beachy, or surfer themed card! :) Couldn't that be cute?! You could keep it subtle or add some fun glitter or embossing to give it some shine. :)

Above I decorated the inside of the card with the Spring Moss and Brown colors to frame up a scripture of encouragement that has totally blessed me this year.

OK... it's our FAVORITE part! Time for a PRIZE!!!

>>>Post a comment and you are eligible to win a fun goody bag with crafty supplies chosen to coordinate nicely with your Embellishments stamp set! (Just a head's up, tomorrow I will be giving away a PTI Embellishments stamp set, too! So be sure to come on back!)

>>> Prize winners will all be posted together on my blog on Sunday, August 15!

>>> SO...today featured some options for creating masculine cards. Tell me, if you had an Embellishments stamp set in your hand right now, how would you use it for a masculine card? What textures, embellishments, colors would you use? Who might it be for? Let me know for your chance to win!

Happy Birthday, Dad! And Happy Birthday to my little 5 pound yorkie today!

We are soooo close to the release! How can you stand the excitement?!

>>Sending lots of love to all my crafty friends!

Papertrey Ink August Count Down: Embellishments, day #3

2010-08-11T18:59:00.015-06:00

Introducing "Embellishments"!

Hey there sweet bloggers!
Are you having such a blast with all the count down projects going on at Papertrey? I love it! Well if you are just joining us... then here's the run down on my brand new stamp set!

"Embellishments" will be released on Aug. 15 on the Papertrey Ink website.
Retailing for only $24
What's it all about? This stamp set is loaded with large and small flourishes, border, and fleur-de-lise all with a distressed technique which adds such rich and countless possibilities. The stamp set also features several thoughtful sentiments which you will find just as fabulous as the images.
If you want to see the earlier count down projects, check out these links: Day One, and Day Two.

So, since yesterday's post shared lots of girly shabby chic examples, I thought I would try to get some more classy modern stuff in their for you, too. I am in LOVE with the color teal. It's a color that communicates the mood and personality I want to emulate all the time. It is fresh, it is fun, light and airy, yet can pull off a very smart and sophisticated look, too. It reminds me of Caribbean waters and gorgeous blue skies. SO, when I got the PTI Hawaiin Shores cardstock, I was so excited!

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>>>Papertrey cardstock and satin ribbon features the Hawaiin Shores perfect match color
>>>Check out my fuzzy orange ribbon (which by the way, has a wire in it which makes it SUPER easy to work with). This was one of the fun colors I picked up at Michael's for a buck. And speaking of Michael's, have you heard about the awesome new Michael's Crafting Cruise coming up in February? It's only been offered just a few weeks and they have already sold out half the seats available! Check it out!
>>> I hand cut the white mat and stamped up the cardstocks with different flourishes from the Embellishments website. And I love the sentiment which emphasizes the importance of the person you are giving the card to.
>>> This is a simple card, but I thought the teal rhinestones were a fabulous touch to draw in your eye. :)
Below is another fun card with a lot of sparkle. AND it features the coordinating dies for the stamp set! Hooray!!!

The Embellishments die (pictured below) will be available on Aug. 15.

Retailing for only $8

This is a fast and easy way to make these flourishes come to life and really POP off the page!

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>>> Once again, I love this PTI Hawaiin Shores cardstock! And I think the flourishes outlined in matching glitter almost looks like the view in a teal aquarium or looking down through the clear waters in the ocean.
>>> I think this might be one of my favorite sentiments in the set. I can think of so many people who truly deserve to hear this from me. My life is enriched by a lot of wonderful people!
>>> The buttons and ribbon do a nice job creating balance for the card even when the focal point of the die cut flourish is slightly off center.

I just love the kraft, white, and teal color combo!

It's TIME FOR A PRIZE!!!
>>> That's right, I am giving away lots of goodie bags with crafty treats designed to compliment this stamp set with perfection!
>>>Leave a Comment on my blog and you are automatically eligible to win today's prize. All the winners from the count down giveaways will be posted on the blog on Sunday, Aug. 15.
>>> So, today's card features the cool teal colors that really resonate with my personality. I want to know, what's your color! Maybe you love to wear it, maybe you like to decorat youe home in this color, OR maybe it represents your personality, or atleast who you want to be! What's your color, and why?! Do you find that you gravitate toward this color while stamping it up in your creative endeavors?

Thanks so much for stopping by! Check out Dawn McVey's wonderful use of the Embellishments stamp set in a fun new way, too!

Smile till your face hurts!!

Papertrey Ink August Countdown: Embellishments, day #2

2010-08-10T16:58:00.014-06:00

Hello Sweet Bloggers!

Today I am sharing more fun projects utilizing my brand new Papertrey Ink stamp set.

"Embellishments" will release in just a few days on Aug. 15 on the Papertrey website.

"Embellishments" features 24 stamps! (1 border, 2 large flourishes, 7 small flourishes, 1 fleur-de-lise, 3 accent images, and 11 sentiments.)

You will LOVE the versatility of this set! It can be fancy or rustic, grungy or classy vintage. The images have a bold look yet can also had a subtle use to them as well. And the sentiments are perfect for countless projects! Whether creating gifts, cards, or scrapbook pages... this set will be your next "Go- To" stamp set!

>>> NOW for some fun projects!!!<<<

For months I have been wanting to stick my toes in the waters of the whole "shabby chic" style in the arts and decor world. And now that I have this stamp set, I can just dive right in!

>> AND, I am so excited to share an awesome resource to help you also accomplish this very popular style in your projects. Allow me to introduce you to "Digital Tuesday". As a graphic designer who loves to combine both digital graphics and conventional tools, this blog is like HEAVEN for me! You will find free images to download, color, and incorporate into your projects for personal use. AND so many of these images are absolutely darling! The had a gorgeous touch of vintage/retro magic that I can't get over! These images are a PERFECT complement to the Embellishments stamp set! Above you will see the see vintage portait called: "Cameo". Below are two little girls called: "Wee One 12" and "Wee One 13".

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> Papertrey Saves the Day! How fabulous are all these colors? Spring Moss (my fav!) combined with New Leaf, and Raspberry Fizz. The ribbon is PTI Hibiscus Burst, and the PTI Fillable Frames #4 is cut in a standard pink from my scrap folder and trimmed out with the Raspberry Fizz cardstock.
>>I love that white fuzzy ribbon! Wanna know my secret? Check out the dollar ribbons at Michael's Craft stores and you are sure to find this awesome textured trimming in a variety of colors! Can't beat that!
>>The "Cameo" digital stamp from Digital Tuesday, with some light and airy coloring gave a precious womanly feel to the card.
>> A few nicely placed flourishes from the Embellishments stamp set, along with the sentiment gave such an elegant look. And don't miss the Cuttlebug action and nice touch with the PTI Raspberry Fizz rhinestones! Love those!

This next card all ready has such meaning! I made it last week for a new friend! My friend Jenny and her husband Wyatt are planning to adopt their first children in just about a month or so! This amazing couple could have children of their own, but feel called to the honor of adopting. They have been working for several years to get twin girls from China, and while that is still in the works, they are very close to now welcoming two little twin girls into their home all the way from Uganda! How awesome is that!?! Both the new parents and the little ladies will be soo incredibly blessed by the union of their new family!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>>PTI colors include Spring Moss and New Leaf cardstocks coupled with Sweet Blush ribbon and Raspberry Fizz rhinestones.

>>The sentiment was one I used with the same fonts from the Embellishments stamp set. I printed it on the computer so I could make the card more personal for the occasion.

>>Bo Bunny's awesome double sided paper gave a trendy twist on the shabby chic look.

>> Notice the subtle use of the Embellishments stamp set. Below you can see that stamp swirls on the New Leaf green frame behind the digital image of the "wee ones" and I used the largest flourish to add some beauty to the bright pink background paper.
>>I think that LACE is a fabulous touch these days and really brings a lovely feel to any girly project!
>>Don't forget that the little ladies I colored on the Card are from Digital Tuesday and called "Wee One 12" and "Wee One 13".

Anyone up for a PRIZE GIVEAWAY!?!

>>> Leave a comment on my blog regarding your thoughts about the set, or a project you can't wait to use it on , or maybe even a fun color combination you can't wait to try using Embellishments! Drop a line by the end of Wednesday and you are eligible to win!

>>> The PRIZE! I have been keeping my eyes out for tons of complimentary tools and goodies that would work super well with the stamp set. The winner will receive a fun mystery goody bag with lots of treats inside!

>>>I will be doing several days of PRIZE GIVEAWAYS this week, so stop by and leave a comment! All winners will be posted on Sunday August 15!!!

Papertrey Ink August Countdown: Embellishments, day #1

2010-08-10T00:18:00.007-06:00

Greetings dear bloggers!!
Welcome to the Papertrey Ink Countdown for the August Release!! I have been looking forward to this release ALL YEAR!!! I have a new stamp set to bring to you and I hope you love it as much as I do! Here are the stats...
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>>Embellishments, releasing for purchase on August 15 on the Papertrey Ink website.
>> Cost: only $24
>> A coordinating die set will also be released, but more on that coming up in the countdown.
>>In the set you will find tons of distressed flourish basics that you will absolutely love! These images can be used for a modern trendy grunge look, or something soft, whimsical and girly! If any of you have wanted to give the shabby chic style a try, then this is the PERFECT stamp set for you! ALSO: I have some fabulous sentiments in one my favorite fonts that coordinates beautifully with the images in the stamp set.

This card is all the way PTI! I love having tons of cardstock, dies, ribbons, and tools with only one stamp set in hand. It opens so many creative doors to challenge yourself in this way.

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> The Embellishments stamp set was used to create the seamless repeated image as a background on the base of the card. You will also see that I stamped some fun swirlies on the PTI Beautiful Blooms die to give it some dimension. The sentiment pieces are also from the Embellishments stamp set, too!
>>The PTI perfect match color combo you are seeing in this card includes: New Leaf and Spring Moss cardstock (with some random cream cardstock for the sentiments), and a fun PTI Hibiscus Burst ribbon. PTI ink used was Ripe Avocado.
>>Finishing touches include a fun impression from my CuttleBug with some ink rubbed on to highlight the design. I also colored in the leaves with a soft white colored pencil to help them have a little more punch, too. A sweet little pearl, hand cut leaves, and some mad coloring skills on the layered Beautiful Blooms flower brought things all together. :)

This card, with all its simplicity makes me so happy! I love the colors and the sentiment leave me dreaming happy thoughts!
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Don't miss my blog each night this week as I bring a whole bunch of new projects your way with lots of great inspirations! AND.... there will be PRIZE GIVEAWAYS starting tomorrow night on my blog! So don't miss it! Tell your friends! Win some fun goodies, and get some fresh ideas for this creative habit we all share!

>> Leave a comment and share your first impressions of the stamp set! And if you give a fun request, I might even whip up a card with colors or themes you are looking for and share it on the blog during the countdown! I already have ten projects to share, but would love to make a mess in my craft room! :)

MORE SHOWCASING IDEAS:
>>Don't miss the jaw-dropping beauty of Betsy Veldman's creativity using my new stamp set!
>>Nichole Heady also has TONS of projects for you to enjoy as well!

>> I just flew in from the sweet little town of South Port, North Carolina. We had a full weekend meeting new friends and seeking direction for the future. SO, being as I can barely remember what time zone I am on... I will bid you good night and look forward to more updates tomorrow!

dear, dear Friend

2010-08-04T18:57:00.005-06:00

Hi-Ya bloggers!
I have been immersed in projects this week! My Papertrey Ink stamp set releases in just a few days and I have been working on all kinds of wonderful things to share with you! I just can't wait until all the sneak peeks begin! You will LOVE this stamp set!

SO.... since literally everything I have stamped up this week somehow involves my new stamp set , I will share a fun card I made a few weeks ago with the PTI Color Couture. I am loving these light blue colors. So peaceful and happy!

>> The card is pretty simple, but the ruffled satin ribbon is so pretty that is just stands out on its own. I LOVE using ribbons in fresh ways like this. And the PTI satin ribbons have such an awesome shine to them! They steal the show!

Enjoy these last few summer days! I will see you for PTI sneak peeks soon!!!

Bright Thanks!

2010-08-02T09:09:00.006-06:00

Hello sweet bloggers!
What a busy couple of weeks we have had over this summer! Sorry my posts have been far and few between! Here is a thank you card I made for some friends who have totally blessed me in the past few weeks. My son celebrated his birthday early on Monday and we had SUCH a fabulous day! My mom and dad hosted the party at their cabin in the mountains. The day began with an super nostalgic experience at "The North Pole". This is a fun Christmas theme park that sits on the bottom of Pike's Peak which is just minutes from the family cabins in Green Mountain Falls. I have so many memories of enjoying the Christmas wonder each summer when my parents took us as children. So I was relishing the entire day as I got to bring my little guy around to all the rides. Afterward we headed up the mountain where my parents hosted an awesome Toy Story party! So fun!

So, after a fun day of presents, cake, rides, and the coolest, highest ferris wheel... I needed a few thank you cards!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> The swirly stamps and sentiment are from my PTI stamp sets. The sentiment is from "Fall Elegance" and the swirls are from "Christmas Friends". :)

>> Other Papertrey goodies include the Spring Moss cardstock, and one of their awesome dies from Fillable Frames. :)

>> I used the Cuttlebug to add some texture.

>>Like my pretty little flower and matching thread? I love it! Learning how to crochet my own flowers has been a fun little hobby this summer. I can just sit and watch a movie with my hubby and crochet a dozen of these little guys. :) So I get quality time with my true love, but a shot of crafty satisfaction, too! The flower pictured below has a variagated color scheme which really makes it pop!

Sing a song of JOY today! See you all sooooon! :)

Big Brother

2010-07-24T16:02:00.006-06:00

Here's a simple card sent along with our baby shower gifts for my sis-in-law. This was for the big brother, Nate! He is a sweet little guy and I wanted him to know how special he is and that he is super blessed to get a baby sister soon!

We've had lots of great summer days with the family! Still visiting and enjoying their company so I will surely have fun stories and pictures to share soon!

Aloha, Baby Girl!

2010-07-20T08:42:00.004-06:00

Hey sweet bloggers!
Here's a fun card I sent all the way to Florida for my sister, Cheri's baby shower. She had a luau themed card, so I had a blast with the bright flowery color scheme!

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> Papertrey Ink is all over this card! I used PTI perfect match cardstock in Raspberry Fizz, New Leaf, and Spring Moss. I used the Beautiful Blooms die to make this awesome 3D flower in felt and different shades of cardstock. Don't miss my PTI eyelet lace die, too! And of course the PTI rhinestones add some fun spark on the flower petals.
>> My cuttlebug gave some fancy and girly touch with dash of elegance.
>>I printed the sentiment using one of my recent favorite fonts. I thought the Aloha part made it special to go with the theme of the shower. And I stamped up the leaves after hand cutting them out. The swirls had a nice bit to the card, I think! :)

Well, keep Cheri in your prayers! She is on the tail end of her pregnancy, and right in the heat of a Florida summer! Shwoo! I have been there and done that! I am sure that baby girl will be all worth it!

Love and Grace to you ALL!

Hi-Ya Cookie!

2010-07-16T12:57:00.007-06:00

My Friend Autumn came to visit and we mastered her amazing recipe for Oatmeal cookies up at 7500 feet above sea level. We decided to make cookies with white and milk chocolate chips! Yum! We made a ton and I brought a bunch to some of my favorite gals at NLC. I thought this card could not be more perfect to go with the yummy treats!

PTI aqua mist and raspberry fizz looked great with the Kraft color, huh? This sentiment is from The Color Couture series. My cuttlebug and some glitter added some sparkle. The PTI large scallop border with some lacy trim came out nice, too. And don't miss the PTI rhinestones! A perfect match!!!

Sing a song that makes you smile today!

Shining Bright!

2010-07-14T09:03:00.005-06:00

Hello Sweet Bloggers!
Today is a special day!! Today my sister-in-law, Cheri, is celebrating her BIRTHDAY!!! Cheri is a beautiful woman with a life full of wonderful blessings. She is married to her sweetheart, raising an adorable little boy, and expecting a precious girl in September! Cheri is creative and organized! Seriously, it's like she is gifted in the best of both worlds! She is caught up in her scrapbook. Her home is immaculate and decorated with a perfect touch of style that still spills with the warmth of a home. And did I mention her garden is a breath of fresh air? She is an amazing hostess and cook! Her homemade lasagna is to die for! She also helps run the amazing CRUISE and CROP business that is booming right now!

OK... Enough about what she DOES... what makes Cheri special is WHO SHE IS. She is a woman of faith. She is thoughtful. She loves to laugh. She values family. She brings people together. She is diligent and faithful. She gives great hugs, and she is wonderful sister.
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DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> When I thought about Cheri, this sentiment came to mind which I created on my computer.
>> Papertrey.... aww gee! What would I do without my PTI goodies? Perfect Match Spring Moss and Summer sunrise were a perfect choice for this sun summer card.
>> The frame was a fun Spellbinders option.
>> I can't seem to get enough of my orange rhinestones. They add so much warm flair!
>> And how cute is that bright pink little crocheted flower?! I thought that color just popped! And I made the flower, too! How fun is that!? Woot Woot!

Happy Birthday, Cheri!!! Have a FABULOUS day!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!!

Summer Flowers

2010-07-09T15:01:00.006-06:00

Greetings Sweet Bloggers!!
This morning I got up and went on a 4 mile hike up to a place called Stanley Canyon on the backside of the Air Force Academy property. WOW! It was gorgeous! Next, I am disregarding my husband's advice and bringing the camera so I can share the beauty with you!
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In Colorado Springs, flowers are in full bloom! June is probably more spectacular, BUT July is still quite lovely! Our hike today was splashed with color as the creek was bordered by purple, yellow, pink, orange, and blue flowers. *sigh!* I just love it.

This card was made in honor of my beloved "house mom". Thea welcomed my family into her home last August. We have been living in her amazing basement all year as my husband attended school. She has become a dear friend, AND she is a crafter! I love showing her my recent projects or bouncing around card ideas, etc. Well, on July 4, Thea had a birthday! SO, I thought I would put together a card that had serene and calm colors which is so much like her personality. I loved the warm beauty of the summer flowers. :)

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DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Of course, my PTI perfect match came in handy, too! You can hues from Spring Rain, Summer Sunrise, Terracotta Tile, Ripe Avocado, and Spring Mist.

>> The pattern paper was from We R Memory Keepers, and how fun is my furry orange ribbon?!?! I love it! And it has a wire in it so it is soo easy to shape the way I like.

>> I LOVE my new PTI Beautiful Blooms die!!! I bet you will be seeing more and more of this!!

Let your gaze rest on the beauty of God's creation today!

With Compassion

2010-07-07T18:24:00.006-06:00

Hello dear bloggers!
What a busy week! With family in town, two birthdays, 4th of July, and a baseball game... boy, I am tired! We had a blast hangin' with my inlaws and other family as well. Tomorrow a good friend of mine from Florida will be flying in so we will enjoy our visit with her for the next few days, too! I can't wait. I have lots of fun girl time planned in the schedule in addition to some fun hiking and local sites, too.

This is a birthday card I made the other day for my sweet Compassion child from Bolivia named Jhonny. He will be turning 9 years old in August. We have been so blessed to sponsor and be a part of this little boy's life. We sponsored Jhonny about 2.5 years ago shortly after our son was born. It has been awesome to connect with Jhonney through cards and teach our son to pray for someone in need who is far away. Since the cards can only fit in a normal business envelope, I usually get boxed in for the card size, but try to vary things up a bit for him, too. I plan to have a friend translate a note for me in his Spanish so he can read it right on the card!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey Saves the Day! As always I just LOVE those PTI colors, and Spring Moss has been my all time favorite for a while.

>> I designed the sentiment on my computer, and had fun adding the summery burst of orange in the string and rhinestones.

>>TEXTURE: I love the little fuzzy green thread that adds something soft to the card, too!
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Have a Super Dooper Day!!!

You're the Best!

2010-07-03T08:33:00.004-06:00

Howdy Howdy Howdy!
Happy 4th of July to you all!! I have an hour to blog, make a cheesecake, and get presentable to leave the house... this this will be quick! We are going to the airport to pick up family coming to visit.

>> This is a Birthday card for my AMAZING father-in-law!!! His birthday is TODAY!!! And we have been counting the days for his visit today. John and Gail are coming to Colorado. My son is so excited! (As are we!) Since John's birthday is July 3, and he usually has a patriotic party, I decided to do a card with a nice masculine theme.

Details, Details!
>>The senitiment is designed on my computer. And I loved using the different ribbons!
>>Papertrey Saves the Day! PTI Spring Moss and Terracotta Orange help make this card perfect! And I used the felt trim cut with the eyelet lace die.

Happy Birthday, John!

I hope you all have a wonderful celebration as we remember the FREEDOM we enjoy every day in this country!

A Berry Sweet Summer!

2010-06-30T10:51:00.007-06:00

Greetings Sweet Bloggers!
My goodness! It has been a whirlwind the past few days. We attended the Desperation Conference (so AWESOME!) and I have been working non-stop on an upcoming publication the past few days. And in addition, I have been preparing for a card Make-n-Take.... The event is at New Life Church for Young Mom's. The theme: "A Berry Sweet Summer".

>> SO I am thrilled to be a part of this fun Young Mom's Night Out. Tonight (June 30) at 6:30pm. Any Mom's in their 20s and 30s come join us for some fun pampering!
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>>So any of you who have created cards for mass production can totally sympathize with me. Praise God for my house mom who helped A LOT with cutting and preparing. We wanted the card to be BERRY CUTE, but not too intimidating for a non-crafty person walking up. So we have pieces all ready to make about 120 cards! Shwoo! Lots of cutting!

The theme of the night is BERRY SWEET. So the refreshments will be all kinds of berry desserts (with quite a bit of chocolate, too.)

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> Papertrey Saves the Day! I found some pattern paper that I wanted to use, and would you belive that PTI was a PERFECT MATCH!? We are utilizing Spring Moss and New Leaf cardstock. The pink and orange accents are actually a perfect match to the Summer Sunrise, and Raspberry Fizz colors too!
>>How great are these strings and ribbons? I love the colors together! I glued the pink down, then hole punched and wrapped the oranged through several time to make sure it is fastened tightly.
>> On the New Leaf background, I designed some subtle wording and a flourish to look like the leaves behind the stem. (This was easier than having the 100+ ladies stamp things.
>> BUT there MUST be some stamping right? Check out the swirls on the orange flower? We thought it would be a simple intro to stamping for them.

So, whatcha think? I hope the ladies like it! I am really looking forward to a fun night tonight!

Smile 'till your face hurts!!!

Fabulous!

2010-06-25T09:23:00.003-06:00

Greetings dear bloggers!
I have to be quick today because I am overloaded with graphics projects, and also trying to fit things in so I can worship at the Desperation Conference today and tomorrow! Woo Hoo! So excited!

>> Here's a fun card featuring a PTI raspberry fizz base, with more accents from Color Couture!

Have a happy friday!! Take a moment and text, call, or email someone special and tell them you think they are fabulous!

A Heavenly Taste!

2010-06-23T15:01:00.007-06:00

HOLY CANOLI! I had the best best BEST EVER breakfast!! We are a bunch of pancake and waffle lovers at the Pastor House! This morning I had a fabulous quiet time on my porch and my sweet boy greeted me with a smile and the kind of hug that knocks you over. I love that first hug of the morning! And I thought it might be a perfect day for pancakes. But since I used up all the milk chocolate chips on my Father's Day present for my husband, I had to use white chocolate (no complaints from me!). While my son was mixing the batter, I had an epiphany... why have not white chocolate and strawberries baked into the pancakes! If it works for blue berries, why not strawberries!?

>>> SO... WOW! I seriously think the angels were singing as I scarfed my pancakes! Warm strawberries and white chocolate with each bite. OK, confession, I ate NINE pancakes! It was a gluttonous moment, but I don't care! SO, you MUST try them! Makes some pancakes for breakfast, luch, or dinner (I am giving you permission!) and throw in some white chocolate and strawberries! Yum! I want to hear how you like it!

And to run with the elegance of my fancy breakfast tangent... Here's a card for you to peek at. It came out kind of regal, huh? I love the Melon Burst satin ribon, and I cut out fun pieces from the Color Couture series. Cuttlebug added some dimension, and the larger rhinestones made it feel quite fancy, too!

Check out my Truth Be Told blog for some pics from our Father's Day fun. :)

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Dream Big Today!!!

A Little Note...

2010-06-22T11:27:00.003-06:00

Hello Sweet Bloggers!
My, oh my! I am so sorry I let the week get away from me! What a whirlwind. Every day was packed with stuff. My husband went out of town, I am helping with a Young Mom's Night Out at church (which I am soo excited about! More about that coming soon!) And I have been staying up late every night working on my book... just started the revisions stage, then my husband has been sick in bed the last two days after returning home from his travels...and then of course there are always lots of little things going on. SO... all that is to apologize for my absense!

Here is a fun card I put together with my PTI Color Couture Series. I love these colors together don't you!? PTI Ripe Avocado, Melon Burst, and Spring Moss... just love it! With the rhinestones and ribbon it makes for a fun little card to have on hand at just the right time to send a word of encouragement to a friend!

Have a LOVELY day!! I am off to the local craft stores to buy supplies for a big card project for the Young Mom's Night Out. I will be posting pictures of the card for you to see soon!

Smile till your face hurts,

Daddio!

2010-06-15T11:06:00.008-06:00

OK Friends,
Believe it or not, I actually made this card for my husband for father's day an entire week ago! Nevermind the fact that I honestly thought that Father's day was last Sunday. :) None the less, now I have more time to plan a gift for my amazing husband. I DO appreciate him SO very much! Right now he is at the gym with my little boy so I can have time to write my book. (I am taking a quick to post on my blog... don't tell him! ha!)

DADDIO has been a recent nickname that I have trained my almost three year old son to call Luke. :) And I thought it would be fitting for the card to reflect this fun season of being a dad for him. It's nice to make a card a bit more personal with a person's name, nickname, or something about them that would be especially for them. :) I love that! It is what makes my card different from the others in the store.

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>>Would you believe I got this distressed pattern paper at Hobby Lobby on clearance for 10 cents? I LOVE those deals! I thought the paper would be a fun masculine option for Luke's card. And I totally love the color scheme, too! That teal, brown and spring moss goes so nicely together!

>> PaperTrey saves the Day! Don't miss the perfect strip of PTI spring moss cardstock, coupled with the AWESOME Eyelete lace die I used on some brown heavy felt.

>> Hats off to my handy dandy SLICE for cutting out my custom title!

>> How about that awesome distressed stamping I did? This little $7 set of grunge elements was CALLING my NAME at Michael's the other day! (A 40% off coupon made it an even sweeter deal!) If you know me, then you know I love all things grunge, vintage, and flourished... so I had fun incorporating those elements in the card by stamping spring moss ink right on the same color cardstock.

>> I really love using twine or thin threads instead of big satin ribbons lately. It is especially nice for my husband's card. And you can't beat the price! 7 yards for 35 cents in any color you want? Love that!

In Colorado there are dandelions everywhere bursting into wishful wonders! I love blowing wishes on these little buds and have successfully sucked my son into the addiction as well. It's perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk. I love to see the little wishes float off with the breeze!

Here's one last shot from my backyard. Blurred behind the card is the gorgeous view of Pike's Peak and the Rocky Mountain skyline. What a beautiful place to live! I am so blessed!

I hope you have a gorgeous day! Drink some lemonade, enjoy fresh fruit, dream a new dream, and laugh a lot!

Sending Smiles!

2010-06-13T11:54:00.000-06:00

Hello Dear Bloggers!
My goodness what a crazy week it has been in the Pastor house. My hubby and I have spent the past few days helping my grandma move into a new house. So lots of projects, lots of boxes, and lots of work! :) We were blessed to help lighten Grandma's load, AND my son got to get some good play time in with the other cousins on the mountain, and that was a blast!

Here is a card compliments of Papertrey Ink's Color Couture series. This was the first of their releases. It was definitely fun because playing with all the stuff in the set got me to stretch out of my usual color routines.

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>> Papertrey Saves the Day! The cardstock base was from the perfect match series: Hibiscus Burst. I love that color! I need to incorporate it in more of my projects.
>> My cuttlebug paisley background definitely added a lot, too!

One thing I loved about this card was the fun rose embellishment. I colored the leaves with some bright green to pull in a fresh color for the card, and the glitter really made it fun!

I hope you are having a beautiful day in your neck of the woods! I have lots of fun projects to work on this week, so I look forward to sharing some fun stuff with you!

AND.... my samples for my upcoming Papertrey stamp set release should be coming in within the next few weeks! Woo Hoo! I can't wait to ink them all up and share with you all the fun new ideas!!! SO keep your eyes open for good stuff coming your way!

Happy Anniversary!

2010-06-09T06:59:00.001-06:00

Here's a fun card I put together a few weeks ago for my brother's anniversary. I have been waiting for it to arrive in the mail before I uploaded it to the bloog.

>> I have a blast with this card! It came out quite elegant. A style I haven't been making much of lately. It was fun to remember my brother's wedding only one short year ago. He has an awesome wife... (just look up the Brenna card and that will say it all!)

I made another card for the sweet family we are living with as a thank you for the many ways they bless us!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Papertrey saves the Day! My cardstock base is with PTI Dark Chocolate, adn the frames for the sentiment are Ripe Avocado and Spring Moss.

>> Both sentiments are from the PTI Mega Mixed Messages stamp set!

>> The Ripe Avocado frame was cut with my slice! :)

>> I have had this romantic background paper for years, adn was so happy to have a good use for it. The border punch I think was EK Success.

>> Don't you just LOVE those sweet little flowers? I saw Ashley Cannon Newell use flowers like that and it reminded me that I had some in my tote! Thus the inspiration for the card!

>> The PTI rhinestones were a perfect fit and just what I needed to trim out the card with a splash of sparkle!

Have a day filled with smiles and laughter! Tickle someone you love today! And don't forget how blessed you are! I know that I am!

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PS. A Writing Update... I had an awesome break through with my book last night! Wow! I was so pumped I could hardly sleep. I thought I was much further from completion then I am, and as I pressed through for another hour and connected other pages I had already written.... all of the sudden I saw light at the end of the tunnel! WOO HOO! 270 pages!! Almost there! Ican't wait to share this story with you all one day! Hooray!
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Side by Side

2010-06-07T12:51:00.000-06:00

Hello dear Bloggers!
I hope you had a LOVELY weekend! It feels like the weekend rushed by for me. I can't believe it is Monday already. It's a gorgeous day in Colorado. This is the time of year that I can so easily fall in love with living here.

Saturday we took a nice hiking trip on a trail on Mt Hermon which is very close to where we live. What an amazing view! Wow! I didn't have my camera, or I would have so many fun pictures to share with you. On Sunday, Luke led worship at Summit Church in Castle Rock. My son loved the bouncy houses they had for the kids! And there was a really fun picnic at a park for everyone afterward. It was our first time at the church, but so nice to sit and eat lunch with people and get to know them. We met some really awesome people!

THEN, we also went to the Sunday Night service at New Life Church. Worship was great, and a guest speaker (Dr. Todd) gave an AMAZING message about making a difference in the world. Afterward was an awesome family night at the church, with bouncy houses galore, and games and candy, and hotdogs,hamburgers, drinks, candy, and popcorn all for 50 cents each! What fun. We got to see lots of friends, and watched "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" on the side of the building out in parking lot. It was so beautiful sitting outside with friends on lawn chairs and blankets as the kids ran around and the sun set. Of course, everyone loved the movie, too! :) What a fun and full weekend... AND I haven't even mentioned the best part yet!!!!

My dear friend. Laura, moved to Colorado Springs! Hooray! She and her family went to my home church in Florida. Our sons are the same age. She loves to scrapbook and make cards. (She's an Stampin' Up gal.) We both have Yorkies and we have similiar style in decorating. I pretty much have figured she is my clone only a little less high strung than me! :) She's easy going, laid back, loves the Lord, and SOO much fun! And NOW she lives like ten minutes away!!! How awesome! Her husband got a military assignment here in the Springs, and I am so happy have her here! Yeah!

SO, this card is in honor of Laura and the many other friends of mine who are far away. Though Laura doesn't fall in that category anymore! I just LOVE the sentiment: Side by Side or Far Apart, True Friends live within our Heart!

I just love that! AND it is a sentiment that I could use a lot these days!

DETAILS, DETAILS!
>>The stamped frame and sentiment are compliments of Close to My Heart.
>>Papertrey Saves the Day! The cardstock base is PTI's ocean tides (a FABULOUS color!), and the saddle stitch ribbon is PTI's ripe avocado, spring moss, and aqua mist.
>> I believe the pattern paper was a scrap of Basic Grey, but don't quote me on that!
>> Don't forget the awesome PTI large scallop border used on the pattern paper, too!
>> The orange rhinestones in the corner of the frame brought out the warm hues in th pattern paper, too.
Lots of love to all you bloggers out there! And welcome to Colorado, Laura!

Cruise and Crop Announcement!

2010-06-03T08:58:00.000-06:00

Today is the day that Cruise and Crop reveals the BIG NEWS! And incase you haven't put two and two together from the image above, let me just spell it out for you!

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MICHAEL'S CRAFT STORES

is doing a

Cruise and Crop Cruise!

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Enjoy a Western Caribbean Cruise onboard

The Liberty of the Seas

Feb. 27, 2011

Enjoy a beautiful 6 night cruise starting at only $599 pp plus taxes.

AND, only $50 for participation fee! (What a bargain!)

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Cruise and Crop wants YOU to be the first to know about this amazing cruising opportunity! Michael's will be introducing the cruise at The Great American Scrapbook Convention in Arlington, Texas today. This cruise will feature their online personality, Jo Pearson, along with Kathy Kromer and Amy Gamble. (Of course, Gail and Cheri, of Cruise and Crop, will be onboard, too!) The cruise will feature scrapbooking, paper arts, beading and more! Michaels is developing FABULOUS classes that you won't want to miss!

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The Cruise and Crop gals wanted YOU to be the first to know so that you could book your cruise before the announcement hits all Michael's stores nationwide. Just go to the Cruise and Crop website and click on the Michael's logo for more details.

Growing UP, and Cruise & Crop Count Down

2010-06-02T12:34:00.000-06:00

Hello Sweet Bloggers!
OK, so double the fun... Today I will be sharing a great card AND releasing HINT #2 for the Cruise and Crop Count Down!
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SO...today's card was a fun little challenge issued by my husband. As you know from recent posts, Luke just graduated from the New Life School of Worship. He mentioned that he wanted me to make some thank you cards for his favorite teachers or leaders who meant a lot to him. He needed five cards, so I spent an evening in my craft room (totally guilt free since I was working on a project for my hubby!) and here is what I came up with!

I created the sentiment on the computer, and I must say that it is my favorite part about the card! It's a great statement that has a little more to it than just "Thank you". This could be used for a teacher, pastor, parent... really anyone who has invested in you!

DETAILS, DETAILS!

>> Fun things about this card include the adorable paisley cuttlebugging action on the base of each card. I inked up the raised design with white ink and it really added a lot!

>>Papertrey Saves the Day! I used my PTI perfect match cardstock to coordinate with the funn stripped pattern paper on the flower. Card bases are Spring Rain, Summer Sunrise, and Lemon tart! The flower stem and leaf is cut from PTI's Spring Moss cardstock.

>> My flower created with some inspiration from Betsy Veldman came out as a lovely centerpiece.

>> Basic Grey ribbon gave a lovely ground effect with nice colors to make it look like the flower just popped out of the earth!

>> My Michael's find for rhinestones had a beautiful orange color which was fun and cheery.

>> And don't forget PTI's awesome Large Scallop border to add a refined touch!

OK.... WHO'S READY FOR A HINT!?!

That's right... TOMORROW is the BIG DAY when Cruise and Crop makes a HUGE, we're talking HUGE announcement. Trust me! You all will want to get involved! You won't want to be left out!

Hint #2:

There will be a CELEBRITY involved!!

Check out my blog for the big announcement on Thursday, June 3!!!

I hope your day is filled with Sunshine and oodles of joy!

CRUISE & CROP Count Down!

2010-06-01T15:06:00.001-06:00

Hello Dear Bloggers....

It's time for a VERY exciting Cruise and Crop Count Down!!! Today is Day 1... and the good news is that you don't have to wait very long... ONLY TWO HINTS and then you get to hear the news! That's right.. on THURSDAY we can spill the beans... so for those of you who are all curious... you might ask yourself "What is happening on Thursday in the crafting world?" (OK that hint was a freebie...)

SO... are you excited yet?

HINT #1: Creativity will happen at SEA!!!

(Bet ya did see that one coming! LOL!)

Have a happy day!

Summer Savvy WINNER!!

2010-05-31T21:53:00.001-06:00

Greetings sweet bloggers!
I hope you had a fantastic Memorial Day! Mine was awesome! I had a great weekend visit with my inlaws, John and Gail. Today I got to dig in on my current writing project, a novel about human traffficking and got 15 pages done! Woo Hoo! Plus we had a lovely lunch with friends, a nice walk with the hubby and son, and my little boy was very sweet when going to bed. Now we are watching Back to the Future. (A classic summer flick in our family!)

DETAILS, DETAILS!
Above you will find a fun and simple card I put together this week. I just love the clean and classy simplicity of this card. The brown felt adds dimension, and the hand crocheted flower adds a vintage touch. The stamp uses two images from the Guidelines 2 stamp set from Papertrey Ink. The cardstock and ribbon is also from the PTI Perfect Match collection as well. And I am such a dreamer... I love open ended and inspiring sentiments. The simple word IMAGINE just makes me happy.
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OK, no more stalling...
LET'S ANNOUNCE the WINNER!
>>Thank you so much to all of you for your sweet comments this past week during the Summer Savvy Series sponsored by "Cruise and Crop"!

And the RANDOMLY SELECTED WINNER IS:
Kelly Welch from Cape Coral, Florida.
who wrote: It is wonderful to see others celebrating July 4th in a special way. My birthday is July 3rd and for years, as a child, I thought everyone celebrated my birthday with my on the 4th. (Posted on May 26, 2010 at 12:15pm)

Congratulations Kelly! Please email me with your contact information so the gals at Cruise and Crop can send your prize ASAP!

Have a Beautiful day! Embrace life with Passion! Enjoy your Journey!

GRADUATION DAY!

2010-05-29T17:17:00.000-06:00

What a FABULOUS WEEKEND!

>>Today, I was bursting with joy and absolutely BEAMING as I watched my husband, Luke, graduate from the New Life School of Worship, at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Luke began school as full time worship student this past August, and what an amazing adventure it has been.

>> God called us to resign from our ministry positions in our home town, in our home church, sell our house, leave our friends and family, and pick up and move. To be honest, I was terrified, but still trusting that God knew what He was doing, so we went with great joy and expectation. Wow, it was so worth it.

>> Our little family (me, Luke, my son and our 4 lb Yorkie) grew closer as we played in the snow, worshipped together, served at our church, and sought the Lord during this incredible season. Luke has blossomed and the Lord has done soo much in his heart. The NLSW program teaches students to be worship pastors. They learn about pastoral leadership, Biblical foundations of Worship, public communication, team building, music theory, song writing, directing a band, systematic theology, and sooo much more. They study under incredible leadership and press in that God might pour out a passionate heart for HIM and for PEOPLE all over them. What a powerful year that will always be a treasure in our hearts.

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SO, what a joy it was to worship this morning with our new friends, and cheer for my hubby as he walked across the stage to receive his diploma (with a 4.0 GPA no less!)

>> Luke's parents, John and Gail (of Cruise and Crop) flew in for the occasion and we have been celebrating all weekend!

Of course, I needed to have a special card for my husband to congratulate him on his awesome accomplishment. Breaking free from the traditional school colors theme, I thought PTI's Aqua Mist, with Kraft, Dark Chocolate and Bright Orange would be fun for the summer celebration!

DETAILS DETAILS:

>> I emailed the NLSW registrar and she graciously sent me some of the logo artwork used for the school, so I was able to make a special custom card that fit the occasion perfectly. (Thank you, Lindsey!) SO, the title, and large and small microphone logos go with the NLSW theme.

>> I used my cuttlebug with a musical impession to add life to the music and worship theme.
>> The bright orange felt was just too fun, and the PTI orange rhinestones were a perfect touch, too!

OK, how fun and edgy does this felt frame look? It totally works with the masculine and contemporary art that IS everywhere around the NLSW crowd. I simply cut a square frame around the circle punched logo and then trimmed the edges of two corners... LOVE IT!

The inside of my card was simple, but has the idea of banners being raised to celebrate my awesome husband.

Here's a snapshot of the New Life School of Worship Graduating Class of 2010 with the Worship Staff as well! (Luke is on the right in a gray jacket with Ross Parsley , pastor of One Chapel, beside him.)

Here is me, Luke, and Glenn Packiam after graduation. Glenn is the well-known songwriter, author, and President of the School of Worship. It has been such a blessing to serve in ministry with him. He is dear to our family, and a true inspiration. He has poured so much into Luke, and we are so grateful for how he has blessed our family. (Check out Glenn's awesome blog!)

Here's a quick pick of the happy family after we munched on cake, punch, and enjoyed the company of our friends!

I am SOO blessed with an amazing family, and a Christ-following husband for a leader! My heart is so full and grateful.

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FUTURE PLANS:

God totally has our family in the palm of HIS hands. Luke will be leading worship part-time for the Summer at a church in Castle Rock. We are looking forward to a restful summer in Colorado Springs as we grow as a family and continue to serve at our church. (And Lord willing, I will finish my book, too!) After that... we are excited to see what God has in store for us.

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Thanks to all you sweet bloggers and friends who have been such an encouragement and support during this adventurous season in our lives! I love you all!