JustA2nd

100

2011-11-15T06:46:00.001-08:00

Remember this card?

I made it as a swap for the Henderson, NV Regionals earlier this year.

I had a few extras and took them with me to a local craft bazaar.

A girlfriend took one to her supervisor.

The supervisor liked it.

And ordered 100!

I'm really happy! And have just started to wonder if I'm not just a little bit crazy!!

A Birthday Invitation

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

My daughter recently celebrated her birthday. Unfortunately, due to the timing of her birthday and school starting, we have with her friends a little bit later.

Here is a quick invitation I created for her to hand out to her friends (blurring used since I don't want everybody showing up at her party).

Paper: Melon Mambo, Daffodil Delight, Rich Razzleberry and Whisper White
Ink: My Printer Ink!!
Accessories: My Digital Studio (MDS), Cupcake Builder Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder and Dazzling Details.

No Stamp Card!!

2011-09-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

As much as I love stamping, sometimes I just want something else...something different.

I've had the Flower Garden embossing folder for a little while now, but it's been sitting in the cellophane waiting for me to apply it to paper. And honestly, I've been feeling a little guilty for not using it. I've pulled it out many times, intent to use it and show off what it can do...but I've never been able to make my ideas come to paper and there it would sit.

Until now. I embossed a piece of Whisper White cardstock and took my Blender Pens to my ink pads and set to work on inking up the dry embossed image.

Paper: Pear Pizzaz, Poppy Parade, Peach Parfait, Whisper White
Ink: Pear Pizzaz, Poppy Parade and Peach Parfait
Accessories: Flower Garden Embossing Folder and Scallop Trim Border Punch

Hope you enjoy!

A Thank You Nugget

2011-09-22T19:45:00.000-07:00

I love these nugget boxes. You can make them simple, or you can make them very elaborate.

And of course, they hold a great surprise inside!!

Chocolate!!

This one here I made out of Melon Mambo and embossed the cover with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder. I wrapped the chocolates in Daffodil Delight strips and covered that with a stamped mail label. This stamp set is so versatile - good for many of the holidays, and even "just because".

Hope you enjoy!!

Congrats

2011-09-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Just because I don't seem to have enough cards in my stash that say "congratulations", or much for a man...

I found a "new to me" blog for sketches...www.cardpatterns.blogspot.com. I used their current sketch (sketch132) for inspiration. Hope you enjoy!

Stamps: Congrats (retired)
Ink: Basic Black
Paper: Pocketful of Posies DSP, Baja Breeze, Rich Razzleberry, Night of Navy, Soft Suede, and Whisper White
Accessories: Baja Breeze Seam Binding Ribbon

Get Well Soon!!

2011-09-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

A co-worker's granddaughter fell off a swing and fractured her wrist the afternoon of her first day of kindergarten.

How heart-breaking!!

I remember my little girl on her first day of kindergarten - she wanted to wear a pony tail because everyone said she looked "so big" with a pony tail compared to her pig tails. I remember how excited she was before school started - her "pack pack" with her brand new box of crayons, a notebook, and a zippered pouch with a few pencils and an eraser; her Unicorn lunch box with a note from me; her contagious excitement and giddy chatter about all of the new friends she was going to make and how she couldn't wait to show her teacher that she could write her whole name! I can't imagine her excitement being cut short because of a broken bone or having her miss something she had been looking forward to for so long.

So I made my co-worker a card to send to her dear grandbaby, and threw in a Build-A-Bear Color-Me Card Kit. I used a card sketch from clean@simple (FTL156) to help with the layout.

Hope she gets well soon!

Stamps: Wellness Wishes
Ink: Basic Black, Blush Blossom
Paper: Daffodil Delight, Tempting Turquoise, Peach Parfait, Old Olive, Whisper White and Big Top Birthday DSP
Accessories: Real Red Satin Ribbon, 3/16" Corner Punch

My Henderson Swaps

2011-09-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

These are the swaps that I took with me to the Henderson, NV Regional.
I did learn one thing while I was there: ALWAYS PUT YOUR INFORMATION ON THE BACK!!! *sigh*

Next time...

Stamps: Fifth Avenue Floral, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink: Basig Cray, Rose Red
Paper: Rose Red, Basic Gray, Whisper White, Old Oliver
Accessories: Island Floral Die, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, Rose Red Seam Binding Ribbon

Stamps: Wicked Cool, Bring on the Bats Wheel

Ink: Basic Black, Old Olive, Whisper White

Paper: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive

Accessories: 2 1/2" Circle Punch, Decorative Label Punch, Basic Black Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Spider Web Embossing Folder

It's The Birthday Month!!

2011-09-01T21:34:00.000-07:00

My daughter's birthday is in September, my friend's birthday is in September, MY birthday is in September, and just for kicks, all of my favorite shows come back on in September!!!

So...in honor of Super Spectacular September, I am giving 10% off all Stampin' Up! orders over $50.00 (before any tax or shipping costs) placed through me (which means you need to contact me directly, give me your order and I will submit it for you with your discounted payment). I must receive your order by 7:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time on Friday, September 30th, 2011, in order for your 10% to be received!!

Also - The New Holiday Mini goes LIVE today!! There are so many wonderfully exciting new things in the mini that I am sooo excited to use! Contact me today to place your order at ambercerda at hotmail dot com to make the most out of this offer!

Card Details:
Stamps: Bring on the Cake, Take a Spin
Ink: Basic Black, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Real Red, Peach Parfait and Tempting Turquoise
Paper: Tempting Turquoise, Real Red, Old Olive and Whisper White and Big Top Birthday DSP
Accessories: Daffodil Delight Satin Ribbon, Stripes Embossing Folder, Game Spinner Hands and Mini Brads (I love those things!!)

End of August Already?!?! How Can That Be??

2011-08-31T20:41:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that a whole month has passed since I last posted!!

I can tell you that I have been SUPER busy!

In August we participated in two car shows. At the Imperials Car Show in Hawaiian Gardens, we took home 3rd place in our division (1960 - 1969 Convertible, Mild). At the second one, the Merced Custom Auto Show, we took home FIRST PLACE!! (I knew those Zenith rims would put us over!!)

Having a car and entering it into car shows is quite a task! Not only do we have to maintain it, but we are constantly having to keep up with the competition, but we still want to keep the car in "classic" condition. Which basically means, no crazy bells and whistles, just "clean". Yes, we have some upgrades, and not everything is original, but we try hard to keep the car easy on the eyes. Plus, we love to hear the older generations walk by and tell us their stories of their experiences in cars like ours: summer days riding "stacked" with friends (think dog pile!), dad teaching someone how to drive, uncle going off to war, kissing your future wife for the first time...we hear them and love them all! It makes the long days of the show go by quickly and we always meet a ton of people, some familiar from previous shows, and some new ones we can't wait to meet again!

The kids also started back to school this month! One is in elementary, and the other just started jr. high! I can't believe how fast time flies! (My jr. high kid has a birthday tomorrow, as a matter of fact! *sniff* *sniff*) Getting them ready by taking them shopping, filling out forms and doctor appointments really seemed to make the weeks hectic!

And last, but definitely not least...drum roll please! I went to the Stampin' Up! Regional Event in Henderson, NV!!!

Talk about A-MAZ-ING!

I went alone...very nervous and extremely anxious. What would it be like? Would anyone say anything negative about the swaps that I brought? Who would I sit next to? I walked into the hall feeling like the new girl coming into the middle of the cafeteria mid-semester...and I left feeling like a senior leaving all her friends behind!

I was incredibly inspired by everything that I saw: all the swaps, all the demonstrations, the "classes", and the women that I met! It didn't take long for me to meet Cynthia and Tonda (Hi Ladies!!) who kept me company all day. And I got to put a face to an e-mail address (Hi Julie!) and many others that were so friendly and kind. I felt like I was surrounded by sisters - and I was! There was a trio that sat next to me: two sisters and a mother! But really, I found that we all had more than just Stampin' Up! as a common bond. Some of us shared our health concerns and hugged and prayed for and congratulated eachother on the current phases we are in. Some of us shared the issues we have with our loved ones; whether it be a death, an illness, or just something that they did that made us smile. Some shared their fears, their dreams, and some of us just shared a bone folder or our paper snips. Regardless, we all had a line that connected us...and it was so nice to experience that. Now, I cannot wait to go to Convention!!

Come back soon!! I have a great deal for September!!

Happy Birthday!

2011-07-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Two friends recently celebrated their birthdays...the good thing is that they are actually Birthday Twins (just a couple years apart!!)...which makes things easy for me, sometimes...

I decided to pull out a new stamp set and punch for their cards, and then sat there...inspiration lost. About two nights before the big day I finally was able to muster some imagination...and whipped this one out.

Stamps: Bring on the Cake

Paper: Peach Parfait, Poppy Parade, Baja Breeze, Whisper White, and Just Add Cake DSP

Ink: Early Espresso, Peach Parfait, Poppy Parade, Pear Pizzaz, Baja Breeze, and Blushing Bride

Accessories: Petite Pennants Builder Punch, Mini Brads

Reinkers!! (aka Stampin' Ink Refills)

2011-07-23T23:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have the best intentions.

Sometimes I am unprepared for my intentions (like tonight).

I am working on a project that I've had on my "to do" list for a few months. It requires two different types of ribbon of the same color, and some patience.

So, I pulled out my notes, my scissors, liquid adhesive, satin ribbon, and discovered that (duhn duhn dun duuuhnnnnnnn - creapy music here) I don't have matching grosgrain ribbon!!

NOW WHAT?!?!?!?!

Well, we MacGyver it and make some out of Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon and a matching color reinker!!

THAT'S WHAT!!!!

Hee hee...and to think, I almost had to push this project back again until I ordered more ribbon!!

(I promise to post pictures of my project once the ink dries and I get it all put together!!)

Happy Crafting!

Mojo Monday 196

2011-06-26T17:28:00.000-07:00

Finally!!!

I have my blog back - looking semi-normal, and I've changed the background and my header with Stampin'Up's! MDS. Not bad,for a weekend.

I also got to play along with this week's Mojo Monday. It's been a little while, but with the easy layout they had this week, I couldn't pass it up.

This first card is a quick masculine birthday card.

Ink: Basic Black
Stamps: Bring on the Cake
Paper: Basic Black, Crumb Cake, Pacific Point, Whisper White
Accessories: Round Tab Punch, Brads, Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder

I had so much fun with this card that I put together two more - baby cards.

Ink: Basic Black, So Saffron, Close to Cocoa, Pretty in Pink/Bashful Blue, Real Red

Stamps: Baby Bundle

Paper: Bashful Blue/Pretty in Pink CS and DSP, So Saffron, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa

Accessories: Scallop Circle Punch, Circle Scissors Plus, Decorative Label, Build a Brad, So Saffron Ribbon

Hope you enjoy!

Still Working On It!

2011-06-23T22:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I got the sidebars back to the side, where they should have been in the FIRST place!!! Took me about 2 hours last night, and about 2 more hours tonight!

Tomorrow, with the right planning. I'm hoping to get my sidebar info back up. And this weekend I will be working with my MDS updates to get my blog decorated.

Ugh...can't wait!

Oh, AND...I finally got a camera!!!! Too excited!! I've been wanting one for so long and cannot wait to begin to put it to use!!

See you soon!

Frustrating!!!

2011-05-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

I am working on whatever is causing my blog to look so crazy!! If you have any thoughts on how to fix it, aside from smashing my computer - let me know!!

Celebrate Life - MOJO 190

2011-05-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

Kathy's father has passed.

She has been caring for her parents for some time now and has handled the transition of cared for to caregiver with an unfathomable amount of grace and courage.

I can only hope that I can handle the same transition with half the grace she did. I made a card using Mojo Monday's sketch. I hope she finds some comfort.

Stamps: Word Play

Paper: Perfect Plum CS and DSP, Marina Mist, Whisper White

Ink: Perfect Plum, Marina Mist, Basic Black

Accessories: White Satin Ribbon, Scallop Edge Punch, Shimmer Paint Frost White, Color Spritzer Tool

National Scrapbook Month Promo!!

2011-04-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

Let it be known that I am NOT a very good scrapbooker. (*cringe!*)

I've tried and tried, but I have never been able to get, what I feel, a good final product. But this coming month, I'm going to give it a shot! May is, after all, National Scrapbooking Month!!

In order to celebrate National Scrapbooking Month, Stampin'Up! is having a great promotion! Click HERE to see their offers! My favorite offer is definitely the Word Play offer.
This stamp normally sells for $41.95 (wood)/$28.95 (clear-mount) and this month only is being offered for $29.37 (wood)/$20.27 (clear-mount).

And the best part??? They started the promo early! So you can go and grab your stamps today to be ready for next weekend!

Imagine, Create, and Make Someone Smile - even if it's yourself!

Stamping 411 - Color Challenge

2011-03-27T21:47:00.000-07:00

When I first saw the colors for this challenge, I was not sure it was going to work. But once I started to put things together, it is quite beautiful.
Ink: Night of Navy and Basic Black Stamps: Medallion, Short & Sweet Paper: Night of Navy, Old Olive, Pretty in Pink, and Whisper White Accessories: Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, and Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon

Mojo Monday 183 and Stampin Diva 02

2011-03-27T21:39:00.000-07:00

This week's challenge really caught my attention. I had some cards to make on request and with a little searching, I found a color challenge on Stampin Diva that helped bring it all together.
Ink: Baja Breeze, Marina Mist, Always Artichoke, and Basic Black Stamps: For All You Do Paper: Whisper White, Crumb Cake, Marina Mist, Baja Breeze, and Always Artichoke Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions, Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Basic Pearls, Designer Label Punch, 1" Circle Punch

For A Baby Shower

2011-03-27T21:30:00.000-07:00

A quick card for a friend to take to a baby shower.
Ink: Basic Black and So Saffron, Pink Pirouette Watercolor Wonder Crayons Stamps: Baby Bundle and Something To Celebrate Paper: Whisper White, Pink Pirouette and So Saffron Accessories: Pink Pirouette Striped Ribbon (retired)

Always...

2011-01-26T19:21:00.000-08:00

I am planning to participate in a Valentine Bazaar - hence the flurry of Valentine-related cards. Plus, they make me happy. Lots of good colors and hearts, they all remind me of love, of hope, dreams of the future.

Lately, Always Elegant has been my "go to" set. I think it can stand up to almost anything, and it's so easy to make just about anything look great.

I know...not the best picture. After the Bazaar I will take some time out to make a light box, and one day I will invest in a camera rather than resorting to the one on my phone. One day.

Stamps: Always Elegant
Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, Pretty in Pink
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: Elegant Lines Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Pretty In Pink Satin Ribbon, 1 3/4 x 7/8 Oval Punch, and Scallop Oval Punch

Be My Valentine Owls

2011-01-26T19:10:00.000-08:00

I'm still working with the new Two-Step Owl Punch. I've seen some really cute projects using it - so here is my attempt.

Stamps: Filled With Love
Paper: Pink Pirouette, Whisper White, Love Patterns DSP, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: Two-Step Owl Punch, 1 1/4 Circle Punch, 1 inch Circle Punch, Pink Pirouette Striped Ribbon (retired)

Love U

2011-01-26T19:00:00.000-08:00

Here is a card that I created using the Filled with Love bundle that was recently offered by Stampin'Up!

Stamps: Filled With Love
Paper: Love Patterns DSP, Pretty in Pink, Basic Gray
Ink:
Accessories: Bitty Buttons

Glitter Hearts

2011-01-17T12:08:00.000-08:00

There is something about glitter that makes me happy. Bright and shiny, little remnants left on everything near...okay, maybe cleaning up glitter isn't fun but it sure does look sparkly and nice!

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, Pink Pirouette
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: 2 Way Glue Pen, Stampendous Pink Ultra Fine Glitter, Stampendous Apple Red Ultra Fine Glitter, Scor-Pal

Simple Love

2011-01-17T06:42:00.000-08:00

You know how sometimes the simplest things in life make all the difference in the world?

That's how I feel about this card.

Stamps: Wonderful Words
Ink: Versa Mark
Paper: Real Red
Accessories: Black Embossing Powder, Heat Tool

Online Ordering Now Available!!

2011-01-05T22:44:00.000-08:00

At least from me anyway!!

Yes, I am back!! You can now order your paper crafting supplies directly through me by clicking on the scalloped circle at the top right of this page!!

Very excited about this new opportunity and some upcoming adventures!!

Don't forget that the Occassions Mini Catalog is now out and ready for you to check it out (to the right!). There are some great things in this new catalog that I am super excited about, can't wait to get my hands on them. The Occassions Mini is good starting January 4th through April 30th, so get your hands on your favorite stuff NOW!!

A Preemie Hat

2010-12-26T12:09:00.000-08:00

My boss' sister recently had a baby - very early at 27 weeks due to severe complications. Thank goodness both mother and son are doing well right now.
Having a little extra time on my hands, I whipped up this hat I found here.

- Posted away from my chair

Gift Card Holders

2010-12-21T23:29:00.000-08:00

The holidays are right around the corner. Really. Just a small handful of Days away.

I've been busy making gift card holders.

This gift card template is courtesy of Dawn's Stamping Thoughts.

Filled with Love Bundle Promo

2010-12-18T08:47:00.000-08:00

Starting December 17, 2010 through January 24, 2011, you can get a FREE pack of Bitty Buttons (a $4.95 value) when you purchase a Filled with Love Bundle.

Included in this bundle is this stamp set (wood or clear mount):
and this pack of Designer Series Paper:
You can get more information from this flyer.

Contact me soon to get your Filled with Love Bundle, or to schedule your next paper crafting party!

For a Wedding

2010-12-12T07:15:00.000-08:00

My girlfriend asked that I make a card for a wedding - about two days before the wedding!! Augh!!
Lucky for me i keep photos of almost all my cards so I quickly scrolled through and remembered this one.
And so, this one here was created.
Since the idea was already formed, I was able to get this card cut, embossed, tied, and stamped in about half an hour. Not too bad!!

Stamps: Lovely Letters Alphabet, Always Elegant
Ink: Old Olive
Paper: Whisper White, Basic Gray, Old Olive
Accessories: Elegant Lines Embossing Folder, Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon, Silver Brads, 1 3/4 Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8 Circle Punch, 1 1/4 Circle Punch, Ticket Corner Small Punch, Dimensionals

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Buttons!

2010-12-07T18:04:00.000-08:00

Buttons are great!
Here I used buttons as ornaments, taking a simple card up one level. I tied linen thread into a bow for a nice little accent which I think really pulled the card together.
Hope you like it!

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes
Ink: Basic Black
Paper: Always Artichoke, Cherry Cobbler and Very Vanilla
Accessories: Big Designer Buttons in Deck the Halls, Linen Thread

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Mojo Monday 168 - Because I Care

2010-12-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

My girlfriend found out today that she's getting laid off.
In an attempt to let her know I will be here for her, I made her this card.
I flipped the sketch a little to work with my image, but I think it works.

Stamps: Tote-ally Tess, Best Yet
Ink: Basic Black, Basic Gray, Cameo Coral, Chocolate Chip, Blush Blossom
Paper: Walk in the Park DSP, So Saffron, Whisper White, Cameo Coral and Baja Breeze
Accessories: Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon, Winter Craft Buttons from CTMH, Decorative Label Punch, Large Oval Punch

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Making a Change!

2010-12-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

So, in order to get some new thoughts off the ground (and before the new year, too!!), I'm making some changes!! Please be patient, I promise some good things!!

Mojo Monday 166

2010-11-28T09:14:00.001-08:00

Another card made for the Holiday Bazaar...

Stamps: The More The Merrier, Punch Pals
Paper: Close to Cocoa, Old Olive, Real Red, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black, Old Olive, Real Red, Pumpkin Pie, Moonlight Smooch
Accessories: Linen Thread, Scallop Oval Extra Large Punch, 1 3/4" Oval Large Punch, Perfect Polka Dots

Mojo Monday 166

2010-11-28T09:14:00.000-08:00

Another card made for the Holiday Bazaar...

Stamps: The More The Merrier, Punch Pals
Paper: Close to Cocoa, Old Olive, Real Red, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black, Old Olive, Real Red, Pumpkin Pie, Moonlight Smooch
Accessories: Linen Thread, Scallop Oval Extra Large Punch, 1 3/4" Oval Large Punch, Perfect Polka Dots

Clean and Simple 118

2010-11-28T08:53:00.001-08:00

I'm preparing for a Christmas Bazaar, where, for the first time ever, I will attempt to sell my paper crafts.

A little nervous, ha! An understatement!

So I searched all of my favorite template sites and decided to play along!

Stamps: Punch Pals, Holidays & Wishes
Paper: Bashful Blue CS, Bashful Blue DSP, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: Red Satin Ribbbon, Clear Rhinestone Brad, Northern Frost Decorative Strip

Clean and Simple 118

2010-11-28T08:53:00.000-08:00

Stamps: Punch Pals, Holidays & Wishes

Paper: Bashful Blue CS, Bashful Blue DSP, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black

Accessories: Red Satin Ribbbon, Clear Rhinestone Brad, Northern Frost Decorative Strip

"He who has the most tools..."

2010-11-18T19:57:00.001-08:00

My dad's birthday is tomorrow.

For the past few months he's been living with me. Re-evaluating his life, thinking, setting his sights on new goals. I'm hoping that he's found what he's been searching for, or, if nothing else, I've allowed him to see that family, true family, help eachother, and forgive eachother.

Happy Birthday Dad.

Ingredients:

Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White (DSP Unknown - retired)

Ink: Basic Black, Chocolate Chip, and Summer Sun

Stamps: Totally Tool, All Holidays

Accessories: Top Note Die, Dimensionals

New Budget Notebook

2010-10-10T15:08:00.001-07:00

I lost my Budget Notebook.

It acted as my check register, my budget holder, my accountability partner, my reminder of where I was - and where I'm going.

I felt violated and lost without my notebook. Payday came and went and I felt as if I could not possibly make any decisions without my book.

I made a new Budget Notebook! See?

And, I've already started filling it up with my budgets and my spending.

I'm almost starting over - like alot of other things in my life - a fresh start!

SUPPLIES:

Stamps: Funky Four and Apple Blossoms

Ink: Taken with Teal, Pretty in Pink, Rose Red, and So Saffron

Paper: Taken with Teal, Rose Red, Pretty in Pink, So Saffron, Welcome Neighbors DSP and Whisper White

Accessories: Corner Small Punch, Scallop Trim Punch, Decorative Label Punch, and Large Oval

Took Some Time

2010-10-09T19:08:00.001-07:00

I know I haven't posted in forever.

I have been going through some rough patches in my life. I believe that I may have made it through - although I hesitate to tempt fate too much on that thought.

Here is a project that i have been working on for a little while. The "rough patches" forced me to put some of my hobbies away until I could "see" a little clearer.

It's a little rough - a paper drawer/suitcase. Prett cute for the first time back. The card was a template from MojoMonday.

If I remember correctly, I found the template on Splitcoaststampers (have to love that site!) And everything else just tumbled out as I went.

SUPPLIES:

Paper: Rose Red, So Saffron, Old Olive, Basic Gray and Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black, So Saffron Craft

Stamps: Favorite Thoughts (box), Always Elegant (card)

Accesories: Two Step Bird Punch (box), Fancy Flower Extra Large Punch (box), Top Note Die (box), Silver brads, Clear embossing powder (box), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (card), 1/2 inch circle punch (card), 1 3/8 circle punch (card), 1 1/4 circle punch (card), Elegant Lines embossing Folder (card and box), and eyelet border punch (whew!!)

Blossoms

2010-06-03T17:35:00.001-07:00

Okay I had worked up a great post when blogger forced close on my phone!! Augh!! So okay...starting over...

Hubby helped me to build a garden box for some fruits and vegetables that I started from seeds.

I've been very busy trying to keep everything growing and thriving.

Lets just say I'm still learning!

Another Hat

2010-04-18T09:01:00.001-07:00

After making a hat for my daughter, my son decided he wanted a hat. He was begging for a sock monkey hat. So we looked and looked. All over the internet, all over Etsy, everywhere. When he finally picked what he wanted, it was a standard DC beanie with a sock monkey face stitched on it.

I finished the beanie in one day. I used the "magic" ring, perfected the DC stitch, learned how to finish a row and move up, switched hooks to make the bottom of the hat come in just a tad, and of course - now my hands are sore!

*sigh*

But, he loves his hat. He slept with it on, he washed his face and pulled it back on this morning, and has been asking me when I will put on the face.

*sigh*

Just as soon as mommy's hands uncurl and I can feel my fingers dear son.

A Hat

2010-04-05T06:46:00.001-07:00

This hat?

I made it myself. For my daughter.

I found a pattern online that was similar to those boutique hats for little girls but when I started to work it up, it wasnt what I was hoping for.

So I ripped out more than half of the hat. Found a book I had bought with other patterns, and slowly worked it out. I actually worked this hat in a weekend...because I started on Thursday, ripped it all apart and started over three times on Saturday, keeping only half of it by Saturday night. I realized it was too big on Sunday so I pulled a little bit out. And finished it on Sunday.

And that is why my hands are cramped and curled this morning. Because I have this thing where I need to see the finished project RIGHT NOW.

But its worth it. She's off to school with her hat. And a reminder that I still need to make some flowers for it.

Love her.

A Co-Worker's Birthday

2010-03-28T22:41:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Nancy's birthday.

She got mad at me last year because I forgot...so this year I made sure to set a few reminders out for myself...

I took the Mojo Monday sketch and worked off of that...plus my current goal to use up all of my current InColors...not too bad I think. I used the thumping technique on the sentiment to add a little bit more POP to the card...

Stamps: Upsy Daisy
Paper: Rich Razzleberry, Crushed Curry, Melon Mambo, Whisper White, Razzleberry Lemonade DSP
Ink: Rich Razzleberry, Crushed Curry, Melon Mambo
Accessories: Scallop Oval Punch, Large Oval, Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon

For the New House

2010-03-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law, and her soon to be husband, just bought a house.

I knew right away that I had to make them a card, and the Good Neighbors stamp set would fit my message perfectly. Plus, there is a new challenge on Stamping 411 that I wanted to participate in...so here you go...

Since the new SU! catalog will be coming out in just a few short months, I decided to incorporate as many of the new InColors as possible, to get the most out of what I have and to make room for the potential new product!

Stamps: Good Neighbors (Sentiment from an incentive set)
Paper: Bermuda Bay, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Melon Mambo, Whisper White, Welcome Neighbor DSP (Crushed Curry)
Ink: Bermuda Bay, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, Melon Mambo
Accessories: Melon Mambo Grosgrain Ribbon, Hemp Twine, Button

Hope you enjoy!

Work in Progress

2010-03-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

Is that a joke? Because really, what isn't a work in progress? As long as I'm breathing, everything I do is "a work in progress".

Just wanted to let you know that I am finally educating myself on how to use MyDigitalStudio (MDS) that I bought for myself...finally, after months of having it.

I found this great, genious, patient, wonderfully inciteful blog (http://www.debbisdesign.com/) while prowling SCS and she has a wonderful tutorial on how to implement MDS into your blog.

I highly recommend visiting her...especially if you are like me...non-techno-that's-why-I-like-my-paper-and-rubber stamper...

For My Brother

2010-03-14T16:04:00.001-07:00

Thursday is my brother's birthday. He will be 28 years old.

This year has brought him a new experience - one that he will have to learn to deal with for the rest of his life. This new thing he can learn many things from - or he can allow it to scar him and draw a shadow across his path. I hope he is strong enough to learn from it. This is his opportunity to see new paths that have been before him.

To another year down. To life experience. To taking each moment, learning from it, and remembering to find happiness in the little things.

Happy Birthday!

Breakfast

2010-03-07T19:21:00.001-08:00

See these?

Supposed to be the best bread-machine cinnamon rolls around, at least according to www.moneysavingmom.com.

I have had the recipe for a few weeks and I have been waiting for some free time to work it out.

Let me tell you somethings that I learned while putting them together:

* Don't triple the filling;
* Add about a 1/4 cup more flour.

Will let you know later how they taste...I'm making lasagna for dinner and trying to save the rolls for breakfast!

Eleven

2010-03-05T21:18:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my anniversary.

We have been married 11 years.

It's almost unbelievable, thinking about it right now. How can that be??? That would mean I'm old right, because I was young when we got married. Can it really be that long?

Uh, yes. We do have a child in 5th grade...

It's been a journey, that's for sure. I'm really not sure how we've made it this far. It's really quite amazing, now that I'm sitting here, thinking about it.

We've been through a lot together. We've experienced a lot of pain and heartbreak...but, we have had some good times, some great moments.

I often read the little blurbs that AOL and MSN post - how to know if you're man is really interested, secrets to a great marriage...you know...those relationship posts from professional journalists. The ones that many of us read hoping for something new, something that will really rock us and make us say "I'm going to start doing that today!" so that we don't fall into the number game of what the odds are we will get divorced.

But really, if someone asked me what my secret is, what would I say?

What would I say?

Be patient, but don't be a door mat.

Be firm, but not unbreakable.

Yes, they will change, it's called evolution. It's called "growing up". Deal with it.

Remember that your relationships need nurturing. Like a plant, it needs food and water, and the sun. For so many of us, this is the number one thing we forget, expecting that our spouse will always be there. But, like lots learn, sometimes that spouse gets tired of waiting for attention...and leaves.

Honestly, for me, it's the little things that keep me here...waiting the long wait while my husband is off working. It's the little things that kept me here while we battled through our wars that were threatening to rip our marriage apart.

Little things, like the way he plays with my hair when we are sitting on the couch. Little things like notes on Post-Its left in my make up box or in the center console of the truck. Chocolate hidden in my underwear drawer, because truly that is the only place the kids won't look. Framing our results at the May Fair Shoot Out, where I totally kicked his butt, despite the fact that he shot better than I did when we were in the military. Cutting my steak, because without him I'd have to become a vegetarian. Little things, like knowing exactly how to make me laugh, even though I'm trying my hardest to be an unemotional rock. Little things, like when I overhear him on the phone telling his buddy that he needs to talk to his "girl"...because, before becoming his wife, the mother of his children, I was just that, his "girl".

Life can be short, with all my heart I hope it's long. We might not have some grand adventure at some exotic beach, traveling the streets of some far away town...but, we have our memories. Memories of working on our cars together, laughing at burnt beans. Remembering when we were absolutely broke and first married, where our fun came from playing video games and researching baseball cards. Remembering how we felt when we moved into our house, our first house, and freaking out because Thanksgiving was two days away, and I couldn't remember which box the pots were in. The birth of our children, both traumatic for him.

I hope I do get to spend more time with my husband. I have learned to cherish our moments together because I've learned that life is way too short, and can be snatched from us in a second. I hope we have another decade, plus more, God willing, with him and our family.

To another day!

Happy Heart Day! (A Little Late...)

2010-03-05T20:48:00.000-08:00

Ah...

I have finally managed to get ahold of my camera and my computer at one time!

Finally I can update you on my life...

First, let me ask you...

What would you do if you saw this after a really horrible day at work?

Well, I will tell you what I did...

I fell to my knees, grabbed up my little Valentine, and gave him a million kisses...

which he quickly wiped off! Oh well.

It was a nice moment, however brief.

Here are the valentines that I whipped up for the kids to take to their teachers...

This one my daughter took to her 5th grade teacher:

Stamps: Hello Again
Paper: Taken With Teal, Rose Red, Pumpkin Pie, Summer Sun DSP, Old Olive
Ink: Rose Red
Accessories: Pinking Hearts Border, Extra Large Two-Step Bird, Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals,

This one I made for my son to take to his Kindergarten teacher. The plan was to have him help me...but instead he ran off to play with his Hot Wheels...

At least I got the cards done!

Stamps: None!

Paper: Chocolate Chip, Crushed Curry, Bermuda Bay, Rich Razzleberry, Melon Mambo, Whisper White, Basic Black and Real Red

Ink: None!

Accessories: Big Shot, SU! Bear, Beary Essentials and Pinking Hearts Border

Cover Me

2010-03-03T22:47:00.001-08:00

I finally figured out how to blog from my phone. Lately I rarely have time to get to my blog from my laptop due to "life" happenings. Actually, I feel like I haven't had time to do much of anything for me, due to "life".

Take for example this week (month) so far. I've had a killer migraine since Monday afternoon. I finally called my old primary to try to get an appointment today, only to find out he no longer takes my insurance. So off to the insurance website. I found another physician with a good reputation among my co-workers and called to schedule an appointment. No luck! They can't see me until Thursday next week. Surely by then I will have gone mad with this pain!! A few more calls and I decided to have DH take me to Urgent Care.

After 3 hours of waiting, two injections and 1/2 a pad of prescriptions, I went home and crashed until the kids came crashing through the door.

I am feeling better. The sensitivity to light and sound is very minimal. I am a little dizzy and my head still aches, just not so extreme. I feel completely dehydrated and spent. But, I am a lot better than before!

To prove it, I am up past my kids, working on a cover for my budget notebook. See?

It's been a little while since I've really gotten into my paper crafts and I've really missed my projects! I do have more to show you, but, it will have to wait until I get a chance to sit at my computer...and not just rely on my phone.

Migraines

2010-03-03T05:10:00.001-08:00

So...

I'm laying in bed an hour and a half before I have to wake up, wondering if my head will explode this afternoon.

Monday I had a terrible migraine and was reduced to a useless blob laying in the bathtub, begging for the pain to go away.

Tuesday I came home early, worrying DH since I only leave work in case of emergency. I tried to make a list of potential triggers and new foods - nothing! We have a weekly menu and very rarely do we fall off track. Children tend to run rampant when there is a small deviation in their program, something I try to avoid at all costs! The only change in my life are some new staff members in the office...something that is actually a small relief in my life.

I am taking an over-the-counter medication and will attempt to make my mark on the day...if I can just go back to sleep!

Boredom + No Restraint = TROUBLE

2010-02-28T09:40:00.000-08:00

"Idle hands are the Devil's workshop"

Heard that one, right?

I am a firm believer that you should always be busy with something. As a mother, there is always something to do. Cleaning. Laundry (that's cleaning). Cooking (leads to cleaning). Planning. Budgeting. Ironing. Reading (mostly recipes and ads). Chasing. Driving. Learning (Fractions??? Googled.) Working. Reading (David Gets in Trouble is great!!). Building (Do you remember your Legos coming with instructions?? I don't!).

But in the meantime, I may find a few minutes to myself. Not much. But a couple of minutes, sometimes more.

I took up card making and rubber stamping to branch out socially. I need friends to fall back on. Other women, other moms, who know what it's like to get so frustrated you can't sleep anymore. Someone else who cries at sock commercials. Someone else who knows what it's like to step on Legos at o'dark thirty and not being able to scream because you don't want to wake them up. But, card making is expensive. Not really good for something trying to get Financial Peace.

I started crocheting because it's quiet. It's productive. And it's something I can do on my own. Plus, you only have to buy a few hooks, a bag of stitch markers, and a ball of yarn a week. As long as you aren't buying hand painted, beautifully soft yarn, it's fairly economical. But, like card making, it's bad for your arms, wrists, and fingers. In other words, "It's PAINFUL for Hand/Arm Gimps." Which, I am a reluctant member of...

So while on a trip to my local craft shop for the Kids Make It Free project, I saw the most beautiful necklace hanging from a hook. "What is that?" I can feel my brain tingling with anticipation. "I want that." The sleek satin ribbon. The shiny silver wire. The smooth, cool, dark gray pearls. The shiny black acrylic rose with the pearl in the center. The soft organza flowers with the crystals in the center. All hand-made. Which means I could make it mine with a simple color change here, a twist in the charms there. My brain screamed "I can DO this!"

I went crazy. I grabbed some chains. I grabbed some charms. I grabbed some claws. I grabbed a magazine. I threw it all on the counter, the girl rang it up, and I slid the remainder of my gift card and a chunk of my blow money, and LEFT.

I did not feel Buyer's Remorse until this morning. I went through my receipt and groaned. As soon as my husband comes home from work, I will be taking the stuff back. I did note, from the ad for that same store, that some of the stuff I bought is on sale. But, once again, I'm making excuses for myself.

Not good.

I do budget for myself. Not very much. But more than some other people that I know. A lot less than most people I know. So, I'm not denying myself all fun. Just trying to remember my goals.

And how much less stress I will feel once I have no debt.

So, I'm straightening myself out. And will get back on my path.

Wish me luck!

I'm Here, Really...

2010-02-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

Life gets stressful. And that stress manifests itself in many ways.

For me, my face breaks out like a teenager, my stomach gets upset, and I get really bad headaches. So, one tube of zit cream, a Costco sized bottle of Antacids, and some Aleve, and I'm almost better.

Raising children is the hardest thing I've done, and I've only truly just begun. I know I will be raising them for the rest of my life. I knew from the minute I realized they were growing in me that they were going to be stubborn. C'mon, they are their mother's children!

My daughter, who is 10, is driving me nuts. Seriously.

She is my first born, and she is my only girl. I try my hardest to do right by her. I want her to be tough and strong, like me, without having the life experiences I've had to harden her. I want her to be self-confident, independent, happy, sassy, classy, a little princess-y, and proud. Truly, what mother wouldn't want their daughter to be all those things? I've taught her how to change the oil on the truck, I've taught her how to make a chocolate souffle. She knows my secret ingredient in my pancakes, she knows that chapstick is a quick fix for many things, and that girls are lucky because we can get away with doing girly things, and do things that boys do, and still be a girl. And a girl that does "boy" things is still a girl, just called a tomboy. I show her the fun things we can do, like wearing high heels and makeup, and how to throw a good curve ball. I've shown her how to do the two-step, how to really move to the beat, and I've also shown her how to fix a broken sprinkler head.

I try to make sure that she is well-groomed, she has a "stylish" hair cut, her clothes are stylish, yet not overly trendy.

She used to be this sweet, generous, dangerously caring little girl. Until just recently. And then she became a "Mean Girl" that back-talks, says hurtful things, refuses to turn in classwork, and has been someone I have no idea who she is.

These last few weeks have been trying times. Tears have been shed, voices have gone hoarse, hearts have been broken. I think I am lost, I think I have found my way, and then she throws another curveball at me, and I'm lost in amazement at how she can change in a blink of an eye.

My little girl is no longer just a little girl. I know she is growing, changing, evolving. I know what this all means, THE CURSE is coming! Hormones are playing with her little body, she is once again testing me the way she did when she was 2, pushing me to see what my limits are, trying to rediscover her limits in a world where she believes she is already grown. Only this time, she is not about two feet tall, with two long pig tails and these huge pouty lips and lashes that I swear must be fake if I didn't know better. This time she does not curl up in my lap with her little Ojo Bear, this time she shoots daggers from her eyes and I can almost see curse words forming at her lips.

My precious little girl, my princess, my forever child, I LOVE YOU. And that is the reason why you are writing essays this weekend, why I make you read stories about children who have nothing. I LOVE YOU. And that is the reason why, when all my senses scream to shake you and call for an exorcism, I pull you into me, and I hug you. That is why I bend my head and whisper the Serenity Prayer into your hair. I hug you tightly. And when I finally feel that I can safely let go, I kiss your head, and I tell you again, I LOVE YOU. YOU are MY life. And I will sacrifice EVERYTHING for YOU.

One day, one day not too far from today, we will once again be best friends. And you will be glad that I held on to you. And you will know that I TRULY LOVE YOU. And you will, I hope, have a daughter, that you can hold on to.

I LOVE YOU.

A New Hobby

2010-01-31T19:08:00.000-08:00

First - YES. I know. It's been almost a month! But, I have been busy. VERY BUSY. Tied up in knots busy. Almost literally.

See that lovely picture??? It's of the mountains just to the east of my house. Right after it rained for a week. Long enough, and hard enough, that we didn't see the sun for almost that whole time. But, it washed away all the muck, cleansed the air, and left us with a beautiful Saturday morning view that makes you remember to be greatful for Heaven's Grace. Do you see the snow? The fresh green grass growing, the purple and blue of the depths of the mountains...the clouds, just passing through, scrubbing the air as they float on. Beautiful. Breathe deeply...

And, I finally started a new hobby. (Like I don't have enough already, right???) Crocheting is something I probably should not be doing. It hurts! My hands cramp, my arm hurts, but like all of my other projects, I get to see the outcome from all of my labor.

They are called Best Bunnies and the pattern is a free one found on the Lion Brand website. My son wanted an orange and green one, so I made his first. My first attempt at anything crochet! The little bugger took me two whole weeks to make, and on the 2nd week, I realized I was forgetting part of a stitch, so I unraveled it all and started over. And my daughter's quickly followed, I got it all done in a day and then took another day to stitch it together. I can tell the difference and that practice does lead to improvement. I have one more to make and then I'm off to make arm warmers and a scarf for my daughter. I have a list of patterns that I want to complete...should be interesting.

Also, I am half way through Financial Peace! I have paid off two credit cards and have been barreling into my third! I'm hoping that we do get our taxes done soon, and that we get money back. I'm not counting on anything right now, just trying to remain positive. I keep trying to tell myself not to count my chicks before they hatch, but I also remind myself that a person without goals achieves nothing. Good points to remember.

Well, off to make Get Well Soon and Valentine's cards! See you soon!

A New Year - A Fresh Start

2010-01-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!

Did you enjoy the holidays? Did you enjoy the family and the food? I did!

That's my baby right there...with the scarf, in the green. He's rockin' out at the Christmas Pagaent, so darn cute!! I love how animated he is...he loves to sing and perform!

Here is his Gingerbread House that he made in school, he was so proud of it! He told a story about a little elf that lived in this house...and he refused to let anyone eat off of it. Mysteriously, it started to "disappear", first just doors and windows, and then whole pieces of roof and walls disappeared, until all that was left was the milk carton base.

Okay - now truly...did you make any resolutions this year??

I did!

Pay off Store Credit Card #1 by January 16th
Pay off Store Credit Card #2 by April 5th
Pay off Bank Credit Card #1 by the end of the year
Turn hobby into business
Make an extra $20 a month

And I have some great news! I already accomplished the first one!! At the end of the year, my employer cashes out whatever remaining sick leave you have and pays you!! I totally forgot about this policy...I've learned to never count on something until it sits in your hand...so, my sick leave was paid out, I've managed to pay off Store Credit Card #1, and put the remainder towards Store Credit Card #2. Now, I need to re-do my budget before payday!! I am so excited! (Yes, I'm learning to revel in the little things!!)

Oh, did you see the last goal? Make an extra $20 a month? Well, I'm nearly there for January! I sold a stamp set that was gathering dust on my shelves to a girlfriend, and then a co-worker paid me to make three Thank You cards! Now, I just have to get myself out there and really work on my last two goals!!

Here are some pictures of the Thank You cards. I came up with the layouts by going through the Stampin'Up! IB&C and looking at the examples - no wonder why they call it the "idea book"!

Stamps: For All You Do
Paper: Rich Razzleberry, Orchid Opulence, Whisper White, Cottage Wall DSP
Ink: Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive, Orchid Opulence
Accessories: Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot ribbon, Scallop Edge Punch, Word Window Punch, Modern Label Punch, Dimensionals

Stamps: Very Thankful
Paper: Soft Suede, Old Olive, Crushed Curry, Crushed Curry DSP
Ink: Soft Suede, Crushed Curry
Accessories: Soft Suede Polka Dot Ribbon, Dimensionals

Stamps: Define Your Life, Baroque Motifs
Paper: Bashful Blue, Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron, Washington Apple DSP
Ink: Versa Mark, Basic Black
Accessories: Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon

Stamps: Sweet Stems, Teeny Tiny Wishes Paper: Rose Red, Cameo Coral, Whisper White, Kiwi Kiss, Raspberry Tart DS Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Rose Red, Cameo Coral Accessories: Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals, Hodgepodge Hardware

Okay, this next card is a birthday card for one of the guys at work, our PR guy. He does a lot of stuff for all of us in the office, and even though he seems to have a lot of fun doing what he does, his efforts often go unnoticed. So, a birthday card he gets.

This card was a lot of fun to make. I love making shaker cards, and everyone is usually very impressed with them. So, how do you make a shaker card with more than just beads??

SHRINKY DINKS!!

Yes, I said it! SHRINKY DINKS!

Remember those things from back in the day? They came in a little plastic sheet that you colored with markers and then threw them in the oven, with the light on, so you could watch your artwork shrink and harden. I never got to play with them when I was little, but I always wanted them.

I bought some for my daughter a year or two ago, and she was not that impressed. But, it had stuck in my mind, and I had gone to my local craft shop and bought a package of blank sheets...to sit on my craft shelves and collect dust, until this week!

Stamps: The More the Merrier, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Crushed Curry, Dusty Durango, Bermuda Bay, Whisper White
Ink: Staz-On Black, Bermuda Bay, Crushed Curry, Rich Razzleberry
Accessories: Hodgepodge Hardware, Bermuda Bay Polka Dot Ribbon, Micro Beads, Dimensionals, Crystal Glaze, Shrinky Dinks

And of course to ring in the new year, a thought: We cannot progress from today to tomorrow, unless we remember yesterday. So, here's to the new year, positive thoughts on all that I learned last year. May you make progress in your own goals, whatever they may be.

Stamps: Sense of Time

Paper: Basic Gray, Basic Black, Whisper White, Baja Breeze

Ink: Basic Black

Accessories: Basic Gray Taffeta Ribbon, Silver Brads, Top Note Die

Do you know what that is?? Can you guess?

It is not just a piece of plywood with nails in it...nope...it's better.

It's a BOWMAKER!!

Yes! So creative! So frugal!!!!!!

I have been asking and asking for the Ultimate Crafter's Companion, you know, the one with the bow pegs, the embossing, the box and envelope maker, that thing???

Well, I can't get it, not just yet.

So while on Splitcoaststampers the other day, while staring at the bowmaking post in the tutorials, I got this crazy idea...hubby can make that for me!!! And so, he did.

He loves me. (Or, he just wanted me to shut up about bows...)

Happy New Year!

I DID IT - Finally.

2009-12-08T09:20:00.001-08:00

So, I've been following Dave Ramsey's program for almost two years now. It took awhile just to get the idea of doing this get-out-of-debt thing. It took a few months to get a budget and make it work. And granted, DH isn't really on board with the whole plan.
But, the thing is, I want to be debt free. I'm tired of having a huge portion of my paycheck go to someone else. I want to be the one that benefits from working. I want my money!!
So, I've sacrificed, I've sold, I've worked extra, I've quit doing some very stupid things.
And slowly, very slowly, I've been crawling out of this whole that I've dug.
And today?
Today, Dave Ramsey is offering FPU for $89.00! I've been saving money for Christmas, and still have money left...so, I bought myself an early Christmas present! I am so excited! I even got free shipping and did not have to pay tax!!
I cannot wait to receive it.
I cannot wait to continue on this journey.
I cannot wait to be debt free!

Still Plinking Away...

2009-12-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

So, here it is just a few short weeks away from Christmas...have you finished your shopping??
I'm almost done. I have a few quick gifts that I need to get...and then I will be done. So far, I am under my budget. Also, I have found some great resources to help me in getting good deals, or at least benefit me in the future.
One site, an all-time favorite, is www.mypoints.com. You simply sign up, and shop online through their site. When you have completed a purchase, you will get points back, which in turn can be used to earn gift cards to various stores. You can also increase your earnings by participating in short surveys, clicking on e-mails, and using their printable coupons.
Another site that I just recently found, www.shopathome.com. You sign up, shop through their site, which offers coupon codes for discounts and free shipping, and when you have completed your transaction, a percentage goes back to you!! You can easily cash out at $20.00, AND, you can earn $5.00 for referring someone once they register and make a purchase. I've already earned a rebate back!
www.ebates.com is similar to shopathome, however, I have found that shopathome gives you a higher percentage back at the stores that I prefer.
Granted, the point of these sites are to shop. Which means, you have to have money. I have budgeted my spending per person for Christmas. I made lists and have looked for great deals. The point is to save as much money as possible so I can throw that back at my debt...which I am struggling to not increase. So, any little bit that comes back to me, is great. Gift cards? Can easily be used at my favorite retailers to buy toiletries, printer ink, dog food, etc. Cash back? Can be thrown into my snowball.
Will be back later with pictures of some cards and projects that I have been working on - see you soon!

Another One...

2009-11-29T15:41:00.000-08:00

Well, it's almost 4:00 p.m. Two more hours to go before the mall closes...Michael's and Jo-Ann's close later. I need black yarn, and brown. I'm learning how to make amigurumi...and I need more yarn. But I don't. I need to practice crocheting. I need to use the craft supplies that I already have.

Here is another card I made, in order to stay busy, to keep the shopping bug at bay...lots of glitter, took me awhile to figure this one. I need something easy to whip out, something that I can give to co-workers. Something that I won't mind if it ends up in the trash at the end of the day. Although, I truly do mind if it does end up in the trash. Because I spent my time on these...they are like little children...I picked out the colors, the ink, the paper I cut, the stamps that I cared for...they are all like small children...only they aren't noisy, I don't worry about where their fingers are...what is going in their mouths.

Okay, maybe they aren't like children. They are like great little attention grabbers that keep me from screaming at the boy who once again has his finger up his nose. Which was just digging around in the front yard looking for mud.

Stamps: Big on Christmas

Ink: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Spica Glitter Pen in Red

Paper: Whisper White, Bashful Blue, Soft Suede

Accessories: Top Note Die, Old Olive Striped Grosgrain Ribbon

First Christmas Card of 2009

2009-11-29T13:47:00.001-08:00

Oh how I want to go shopping!

I want to run to the mall, buy clothes and makeup, pretzels and a coffee! I want to shop for my family! I want to shop for my friends! I want to walk down the hall swinging bags of fun new stuff. I want to push past other people, all spending money and happy with their family and friends. I want to look at boots and sweaters, search for video games and size tags! I want to shop and shop and shop!

But I can't. I must remain strong in these times, where all the television ads are clawing at my wallet. These times that cause sales to pop into my e-mail and tempt me to spend spend spend. I must remain strong. I must remember my budget. I must remember that I have an ultimate goal.

I must not say "This SUCKS".

In order to remove myself from all of society's temptations, I decided to finally work on some Christmas cards. Okay, really I just made one, in duplicate.

Stamps: Season of Joy

Paper: Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue, Old Olive

Ink: Versa Mark, Old Olive, Bashful Blue, and Ruby Red

Accessories: Dimensionals, 1/2" Circle Punch, White Embossing Powder, Chocolate Chip Striped Grosgrain Ribbon

I must give credit to this card on Splitcoaststampers, it caught my eye as I was looking for inspiration. A true beauty...

For Kathy and Bob

2009-11-29T13:33:00.000-08:00

My friend Kathy is stressed. And that is putting it nicely. Not even nicely. That's just the tip of the iceburg for her. She is struggling with family issues, with caring for her parents, with living life...but she manages to put a smile on her face, to help make my bad days shine, and she always is willing to listen.

Or, she pretends to listen and nods at all the right places...

Her husband had a stroke when my little one was out ill. I wasn't able to be there for her the way that she is always there for me. The moment that I returned to work, I ran to her desk and hugged her. Because sometimes, there are no words to convey all that your heart wants to say. Bob is getting better. They hospitalized him and he had numerous strokes while there. Fortunately, there is no permanent damage that the doctors can find. He is slowly coming around to returning to his spitfire self. He has trouble remembering how to do some things, but all in all, he is healing and recovering.

I made this card for them, to let them know that I was thinking and praying for them...

Stamp Set: God's Beauty, Trendy Trees

Paper: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron, Old Olive, Whisper White

Accessories: Circle Scissors Plus, White Satin Ribbon, Dimensionals

Still Practicing

2009-11-22T21:43:00.000-08:00

Worked on this one...

And made this one...

MDS - My First Attempt

2009-11-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

Okay, first off, let me warn you:

I am NOT a scrapbooker. My mom tried to get me started when my daughter was born with pre-made kits, embellishments, all sorts of stuff. But, I never really got it. As time has gone by (ten years +), I have come out of my creative coma and gotten into cardmaking and paper crafting. So, when Stampin' Up! came out with My Digital Studio, I thought "Perfect! Now I can do scrapbook pages that aren't permanent! It's okay to make a mistake!!" And so, when my life finally took a change for the positive, it was the first thing on my list.

Here is my first attempt. Look back, I said "attempt". I will get better.

Online Extravaganza!!

2009-11-21T08:21:00.000-08:00

Shhh!!!!!
On Monday (the 23rd!!), SU! is having an online extravaganza! They are going to have massive discounts, up to 50% off on some items! The catch? You have to order online!! So hurry up! Make your wish list and hit up the site Monday! Prices are only good while they last, and I can guarantee that I will be checking the site as soon as the clock strikes 12:01!

Ack!!

2009-11-21T07:59:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my son's 5th birthday, my baby, my sweet, sweet, little angel. Well, sometimes. Sometimes he is just the funniest, sweetest little person I have ever come across, ever. And then, there are moments where I feel like I see through his gorgeous brown eyes and can see extreme dislike emitting from the pupils, his brow furrowed to no return, and tiny horns protruding from his scalp...usually that's every morning on a weekday.
Today I am hoping to work on my stampin' stuff...I ordered the new My Digital Studio and I am currently downloading it onto my laptop as I type. I can't wait to work with it!! I also ordered the new 3D pop up tree with ornaments (Christmas cards need to be worked on!!), and I ordered two Build-A-Bear dies...absolutely cannot wait to play! Of course, it has to wait until after we get back from our Lowe's Build and Grow class today...hopefully I get a cup of coffee first.
I am also preparing my craft area for new stuff! The new Sale-A-Bration catalog and the Mini Occassions will be out very soon, and I need some room! If you are interested in checking out my list, please contact me at ambercerda at hotmail dot com. I will be selling lots of stamp sets for half price, and some rarely used ink pads, also for half off. I've decided to take on the Craft Ink Pads, I have found that I can create some interesting projects with the craft ink. Please stay posted, there is some more news I cannot wait to share with you!!

Walgreens Trip

2009-10-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

Busy shopping today, going to be a busy week since I missed all last week with my daughter being sick.

I took off to Walgreens to take advantage of the 2 for $5.00 Ziplock deal, I needed some gallon size bags to put some corn meal away in, and I wanted to take advanatage of the SC Johnson $5.00 rebate. I also wanted to pick up some gummy worms that my son needed for his class, and today they were Buy One, Get One Free.

Here is what I bought:

3 boxes of gallon sized Ziplock bags - $3.59

1 Box of Quart sized Ziplock bags - $3.59

Buy 2 for $5.00

(2 coupons for $1.00 off)

12 pack of Charmin - on sale for $6.49

(coupon for $1.00 off)

6 rolls of Bounty - $6.49

(coupon for $1.00 off)

4 bags of gummy worms - $0.99 each

Buy one, Get One Free

Total Price before Walgreens Deals (before taxes): $31.30

Price after Walgreens Deals: $24.96

Price after Coupons and Register Rewards: $19.96

After SC Johnson Rebate: $14.96

I hope to get better at my couponing and rebates soon...with practice, I'm sure I will.

CVS Trip

2009-10-25T16:23:00.000-07:00

So CVS finally opened here. I've been waiting for over a year, waiting patiently after I saw that the permit to build had been approved, then continued to wait, as the building came up, interviews were held. I read up on how to use as little money as possible for as much as possible.

Today I went, my first real trip with coupons, money saving websites were scoured last night, my coupon binder was sifted through, and I wrote out my plan on a sheet of paper.

Here is what I bought:

4 Colgate Total Whitening - Regular Price : $3.49

CVS Deal: Buy 2 for $5.50

(Limit 4)

$1.00 ECB with purchase of 2

(Plus I had a coupon for $0.75 off)

1 Gilette Venus Embrace Razor - Regular Price: $13.99

CVS Deal: Buy 1 for $9.99

(Limit 1)

$5.00 ECB

(Plus I had a coupon for $2.00 off)

2 CVS Green Bag Tags

- Starting November 1st, they will give you $1.00 ECB with scanning (bring your own "green" bag") to be paid out at the end of the month

Total that I should have paid, before tax and card: $29.93

After I swiped my card: $22.97

But, I already had $12.00 ECBs from the Grand Opening Coupon ($10) and one prior ECB ($2), so after ECBs: $10.97

And after my $2.75 in coupons: $8.22

Plus - I got $7.00 in ECBs to be used towards my next trip.

Not bad for just learning. I can't wait to see what's out for next week!

More updates...

2009-10-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

I very rarely share pictures of my babies...their mine, mine, mine. But here is one of my daughter, I took while we were down south with family. Her aunt had promised my daughter and my niece face paintings, and on the day we left, we made it to the face painting booth. Here's my daughter, with purple swans across her face. If you look closely, you can see freckles that chase across her nose and sprinkle over her cheeks; she gets that from her dad.

Here is a picture of my son, playing with his DS in a box I had brought home to be recycled. Instead, the kids made a playhouse out of it. I let them paint it and tape it to their liking, and that evening, my son dragged it into his room and begged to sleep in it.

Here is a "Thank You" card I made for a co-worker who was very generous lately. Can't say exactly because he made me promise, but he is a great person and is the person you want in your corner when things start to get down and dirty...

Here are two of the butterfly cards I made for my Challenge Group. We are now down to the original two members, and I must admit that I slacked. However, I am hoping to get back into the groove of things and really let go.

Hope you enjoy!

Been gone way too long...

2009-10-22T12:11:00.000-07:00

Okay...I know, I'm sorry! I've been gone way too long!

School has started for the kids and I've been busy with homework and class projects...trying to figure out how to make my itty bitty income work for the whole household, printing coupons, trying to get extra money into the house, trying to stay positive, LIVING.

DH finally got a job that he's been holding steady. Too many people were not making good on their promises, so he took something different and has been working about six days a week. Hoping that the income will start to make a difference, I know it took a severe toll on my health and I have been feeling significantly less stressed now that he has a job and something is being contributed.

Now, if I can only keep him on track and make my goal of becoming debt-free a mutual goal. Wish me luck!

Now, to keep you updated:

I have been making cards! Not as many as I would like, but some. So - prepare yourself, I'm going to make a list!

Here are some "Thank You" cards that I made for my co-w0rkers who helped make my 30th Birthday one of the best birthdays ever....

I tried to change it up a little, I don't want anyone thinking I just crank these out in five minutes...

This one I made for Liliana, who just turned 6! My girlfriend invited the kids and I to her birthday and we had a great time!

Pretty simple cards, but they took a lot of effort since I haven't been feeling very crafty lately...hoping that will pass soon!

Birthday Invitation

2009-09-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

A co-worker asked that I make birthday invitations for her mother's 80th birthday. ACK!!

What do I do? Head straight over to splitcoaststampers...and browse browse browse. I found this card and fell in love with it. I kept the layout and the basic idea, but changed the colors and the butterfly. My co-worker and all those that received an invitation LOVED them.

Here is what I came up with:

What do you think?

Paper:Whisper White, Old Olive, So Saffron, Pumpkin Pie

Stamps: Baroque Motifs, Great Friend

Ink: Chocolate Chip, So Saffron, Pumpkin Pie

Accessories: Chocolate Chip Taffeta Ribbon, Dimensionals, Scallop Edge Punch, Mat Pack, Paper-Piercing Tool, Clear Embossing Powder, Backgrounds 1 Sizzix Texturz Plates

A Masculine Birthday Card

2009-09-01T21:45:00.001-07:00

A co-worker asked that I make her fiance a birthday card. My instructions: he likes fishing.

Hmmm...

So, I came up with this:

What do you think?

Paper: Not Quite Navy, Garden Green, Creamy Caramel

Ink: Versa Mark, Chocolate Chip, Not Quite Navy, Garden Green

Stamps: Upsy Daisy; Fish - Inkadinkadoo

Accessories: Jumbo Eyelets, Cutter Kit (distressing tool), Linen Thread

DD's Birthday

2009-09-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

Today is my DD's birthday. 10 years old. I can't believe it.

I remember being in labor with her...forever.

I remember being scared; my water broke in the bed and I had thought I peed the bed. I can laugh about it now...but at the time, I was frantically trying to clean myself and the bed and try to control my tears while my husband was whistling in the shower.

I remember holding her and being so exhausted, and learning that if my husband left his shirt he wore at night in the crib with her, she would sleep until she woke up, hungry.

I remember how she hated frilly lacey clothing, and now that's all she wants.

I remember that I felt like I was a horrible mother because I never gave her a baby doll until she was about 18 months...she seemed content with her blocks and balls and story time.

I remember telling her that she was going to be a big sister, and her turning around, the sourest face, and in the whiniest (is that a word?) voice, told me that she didn't want a baby, she wanted a rabbit. I tripped and fell I was laughing so hard.

I remember everything like it was just a second ago, and she laughs at me as I tear up: Stop Crying Mom.

Ah, the little moments.

Anyway, today is her 10th birthday. We made her choice of dinner: tacos. We made a cake: vanilla with sprinkles. We talked about our day and tried to countdown to the next family member's birthday (mine!).

Here are some pictures of the card I made for her.
I am still working on that pop-up cake die.

Here she is blowing out her candles...

Happy Birthday Lady Bug!

Birthday Gift for the Boss

2009-08-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

Today is my boss' birthday. At the final hour, my co-workers apparently voted me in charge of getting a gift and making a card - so kind and thoughtful they are!!! He's into sour candy so I decided to run to Michael's, pick up a jar with a lid, and fill it with Sour Skittles. I thought that it was going to be a quick one-stop shop. However, Michael's had only the jar and NO sour candy. I grabbed the jar and headed to the local corner drug store, where I emptied their candy bins of every Sour Skittles they had. I took off to home and proceeded to make a card and decorate the jar. What do you think? Not bad for having to do a last minute birthday project.
Paper: Whisper White, Pacific Point (Retired)
Stamps: Party Hearty
Ink: Basic Black, Pacific Point
Accessories: Circle Scissors Plus, Dimensionals, 1/16" circle punch, Pacific Point Striped Ribbon, Linen Thread, Dimensionals
Paper: Pacific Point, Whisper White, Good Morning, Sunshine DSP, Summer Sun
Stamps: Happy Everything
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: 1/16" circle punch, Pacific Point striped ribbon, silver brads

Summer Days

2009-08-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

Well, DH still doesn't have a job. Two months, ten days, and counting...

He is staying home with the kids...which is saving some money...however, I'm not too sure how the kids are doing.

My poor little boy, he's getting ready for Kindergarten...and according to him, he's "growed up" already. He fights to stay awake, refuses to take naps, and refuses to hold hands while walking. However, I came home from work and found him passed out in the hallway, his Pandy and Hot Wheels not far from where he dropped...

If he knew I laid there watching him, stroking his hair and listening to him breath, he would be so angry! Oh, how I love my little guy!

My daughter on the other hand, has taken to playing in the mud. While preparing to enter 5th grade, I assumed that she would become interested in woven friendship bracelets, lip gloss and nail polish; my favorite things in 5th grade were the Little House on the Prairie books, those woven friendship bracelets, and playing with my pet rabbit. Hers? Playing in the mud. Here's her latest masterpiece:

A Cookie Jar with Cookies.

How I wish I could be home with them to see what happens during the rest of the day!

August Deal of the Month

2009-08-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

This month you can earn free Designer Buttons from Stampin' Up just by ordering $35.00 worth of stamps from pages 76 - 90 (Growing Up section). You will get your choice of Latte,
Playground,

and Sherbet.

Each package comes with 30 buttons, 3 of each design, which are marbled, circle, embossed flower, star and flower.

Buttons are an amazing accent to your projects. These buttons come in Stampin' Up!s exclusive colors so they coordinate with your papers and cardstock, plus they come in an assortment of cute designs. They stick on easily with Glue Dots and Pop-Up Glue dots. I enjoy threading buttons with a small piece of linen thread, just to add a bit of detail to the card.

To earn your stamps, order $35.00 worth of rubber in the Growing Up section here.

Birthday Card

2009-07-29T07:02:00.000-07:00

Today is a co-worker's birthday. I made this card for her. She is in love with purple and angels. I don't have an appropriate angel stamp for her, but I thought that the Beautiful Butterflies Die was perfect with a little scrap vellum, a whisper of beauty, a simple thought. I embossed the sentiment for a little bit more punch.

Paper: Basic Gray, Elegant Eggplant, Whisper White, Walk In the Park DSP
Stamps: Congrats (SAB 2008)
Ink: VersaMark
Accessories: White Emboss Powder, Heat Tool, Beautiful Butterflies Sizzix Die, BigShot, Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon

Card Class/Party!!

2009-07-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

If you know me and are relatively close, you've received a card or other item from me, maybe a Post-It Note Holder or desk set, a box of cards, or maybe a bag of gift cards. If you know me, you know I enjoy rubber stamping. It's cathartic, it's about the only thing that I have that's even partially mine.

So, next Saturday, August 8th, I'm having a class/party at my house to learn why I like Stampin' Up! and all it has to offer. You can come and meet new people, or learn something new about someone you already know. Have some snacks, and take home some great projects.

What: Card Party!!
Where: My House
When: August 8, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to noon
Cost: $8.00 (payable via cash, check or PayPal) by August 5th
RSVP: Call by August 1, 2009, to save your spot! (661) 979-4081

Here are a few sneak peaks of the projects we will be doing, just a peak!

Final Deal of the Week - Heart to Heart Punch

2009-07-29T06:14:00.000-07:00

Heart To Heart Punch

Regular Price: $15.99

Sale Price: $10.99

"When your heart is full, you often want to show it.Punches are a quick and easy way to add interest, dimension, and color to your cards, tags, and scrapbook pages. You can glue punched shapes directly onto your projects or layer a sheet of cardstock that has been punched over a coordinating card stock for a reverse effect.

You can contact me directly at ambercerda@hotmail.com or pick up your punch here.

Deal of the Week - Styled Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware

2009-07-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

Styled Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware

Regular Price: $29.95

Sale Price: $18.99

That's over 30% off!! A great deal!!

Our Hodgepodge Hardware Kits are an amazing value - each kit contains approximately 200 pieces of hardware! It includes an assortment of holders and brads. Create memorable gifts, cards, scrapbook pages and handmade books with these must have accents!

To place your order, click here.

August Challenge

2009-07-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

July is coming to a quick end, can you believe it????
Our August challenge is coming up, and I got to pick for this month. So, I picked butterflies.
I'm quite excited; I've seen some amazing work with embellishments and different tools to create some beautiful works of art.
One difference this month regarding our challenge: All of our submissions will be donated to Cardsforheroes.org. It's important to me that our Armed Forces are remembered. So many come back with emotional and mental issues, including physical, that they need us. A small token for their major sacrifice...
If you would like to join in our submission to our servicemembers, please forward your cards to:

Amber Cerda

7812 Big Bear Street

Bakersfield, CA 93307

Remember - no glitter (including Dazzling Diamonds)

I am hoping to have them all in so that they can go back in the mail by August 31st.

Remember, the new catalog is live so all the new papers and stamps are available. You can place an order here.

July Deal of the Week #3

2009-07-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

Square Fire Rhinestone Brads!

Regular Price: $10.99

On Sale: $6.99

Brads are a fun addition to any project, and these Rhinestone brads add extra fun and sparkle. Rhinestone brads coordinate with Stampin’ Up!’s exclusive colors, so there's no need to guess about what colors to use your brads with.

■ Square brads: Approximately 80 per package (4 colors in 2 sizes)

■ Fire assortment coordinates with the following colors:

Pink: Pink Passion, Pixie Pink, Pretty In Pink, Regal Rose and Rose Red

Red: Real Red

Yellow: Summer Sun and YoYo Yellow

Pumpkin: Pumpkin Pie

As you may notice, I love brads...they are a great way to add character to your project...a little "bling" never hurt anyone!

You can place your order here!

Look at What My Husband Made Me!

2009-07-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

See? See?

Ooooh, I love it. He gets frustrated when I pull my stuff out, sprawl it all over the kitchen table and then keep getting up to watch the kids, stir a pot or fold some clothes. My ribbon was in some little organizers...but with kids and no time...it ended up looking like a rat's nest!

So, yesterday he took two rolls of ribbon out into the garage (You better bring that back without GREASE!!!) and made me the ribbon holder. I love it! I do believe that this little gift has won him a pan of brownies...just as soon as the temperature goes down.

A Loss...

2009-07-09T21:39:00.000-07:00

Remember I told you about the woman who had a severe brain injury and had to learn how to LIVE all over again (see here)? Her mother passed away...

I am emotional - I am heart-broken for her and her family. I am angry. I see my babies and want to hold them, I want to remind them that I will always be here, even though I truly might not be. I want to sit next to my mom and have her stroke my head...but I'll settle for sitting here and listening to her breathe on the other end of the phone.

The funeral is tomorrow, and I cannot bring myself to go. It should be a private moment, and I don't want to be there, a distraction, while this amazing, inspiring woman tells her mother "bye" for the last time...I cry just sitting here typing it.

I'm sending her a card...just to let her know that she and her family are in my thoughts and in my prayers...

"In our hearts, we all know that death is a part of life. In fact, death gives meaning to our existence because it reminds us how precious life is."

Mojo Monday #94

2009-07-09T20:06:00.000-07:00

I seen this week's sketch and I HAD to play!

So, here is my submission:

Paper: Rich Razzleberry, Melon Mambo, Crushed Curry, Whisper White and Razzleberry Lemonade DSP

Ink: Basic Black, Rich Razzleberry and Crushed Curry

Accessories: Rich Razzleberry 1/2" Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon, Ticket Punch, Dimensionals

I made this card for a co-worker who just had an appendectomy. I hope she recovers well.

SU! Big Shot Die Pack Give Away!!!

2009-07-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

http://www.stampinaddicts.com/ has so many great ideas using the Stampin' Up! Big Shot AND is giving away a Big Shot Die Pack as part of the Stampin' Up! summer celebration. To enter, all you have to do is blog about it, post about it on Facebook, or Twitter about it. Then, contact SA and let them know about your entry. This is my entry! I hope I win!!

Ribbon Share

2009-07-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a picture of the Ribbon Share, which I am currently putting out there:

So Cute! I wish someone was my demo and would package something cute for me!

This is a yard of each color for $6.00, $2.50 for shipping. You can contact me directly at ambercerda@hotmail.com if you wish to participate, or are interested in participating in a paper/button/brad share.

Tri-Fold Shutter Card

2009-07-07T20:57:00.000-07:00

I finally did it! I was so inspired by Sandy Hancock's blog with her cards that I just had to try to make the Tri-Fold Shutter card. I spent most of Sunday working on it, a little bit of Monday morning before work, and finally finished it this morning before I left for work.

What do you think?

I would love to post the recipe for this card but it was a gift/kit. I do know that it was the Tickled Pink kit from Close to My Heart. I used my SU! Stampin' Pastels, the Ticket Punch, and of course dimensionals. I also used my Dazzlin' Diamonds and a 2-way Glue Pen.

Week 2: SU! Weekly Deal

2009-07-06T10:26:00.000-07:00

This week's deal is the Sizzix Big Shot Doctor's Bag. It is normally $69.95, but for this week only it is on sale for $49.99!

I know many stamper's that make use of this bag, as a tote to stuff their supplies in while on the go, and also as a personal travel bag, to use while attending conventions and other "weekend" trips.

Remember - these deals are only good for one week, so don't let them get past you!

"Happy Birthday, Human"

2009-07-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

Isn't this the cutest? AND, it's masculine!

I love it. It's for a co-worker's little boy who is turning 11. We are going over for dinner tomorrow so I worked on this little gift card holder for him. You can get the instructions for this cute idea here.

Paper: Basic Gray, Basic Black, Real Red, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black, Basic Gray, Bashful Blue, Real Red

Stamps: Lots of Bots

Accessories: Gray Taffeta Ribbon, Dimensionals, atyou Spica Red, Crystal Glaze, Word Window Punch, Modern Label Punch

Independence Day

2009-07-05T14:49:00.000-07:00

"It is easy to take Liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you." Dick Cheney
I served my Country, I am a U.S. Marine. My husband served, and together, We Stand. Every Fourth of July comes, we take it to heart. Some of our family members have served, Marines Corps, Army, and Air Force. We have friends that have served, that still serve to this day. We know all too well the effects of war; the losses that can be suffered. To us, it is not just about hot dogs and Kool-Aid. We know. We feel it deep in our blood. We raise our flag proudly, we hold hands and pray.

Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones, and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family.
Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my Country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold.
If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again.
Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer.
(A Marine's Prayer)

And we remind ourselves to be humble, WE are the lucky ones.

I hope you enjoyed the day, I hope you stayed safe. And I hope you remembered to be Thankful

Mojo Monday - #93

2009-07-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

Lucky for me, I had the day off! I was quite excited about having the day off all week, I had planned to work on a submission for Mojo Monday, work on my challenge for July, and try to figure out the Tri-Fold Shutter Card. But, life, of course, intervened. DD went to art camp and we had to pick her up by noon, DH wanted to go to Costco, everyone needed lunch, someone decided they needed cheesecake...life.

I didn't get everything done that I wanted to, but I did get these two cranked out for this week's Mojo Monday Challenge. I really feel inspired by these card sketches, and I hope that I am able to participate by creating at least one card a week.

Here is the sketch for this week:
And, here are my cards that I did:

I made two, I really wanted to create today, but, like I said, Life happened.

Paper: Pink Pirouette, Whisper White, Candy Cane DSP
Ink: Pink Pirouette, Basic Black, Bashful Blue
Stamps: The More the Merrier
Accessories: Scallop Square Nestabilities, Scalloop Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Rhinestone Brads, Basic Narrows Grosgrain ribbon (Michael's), Dimensionals, Blender Pens, Sizzix Texture Background 1

Paper: Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White, Green Galore, Rainbow Sherbet DSP
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Green Galore, Chocolate Chip, YoYo Yellow, Basic Black, Basic Gray, Copic E00
Stamps: Domestic Goddess (Hanna Stamps)
Accessories: Spots & Dots (Cuttlebug/Provo Craft), Curling Ribbon, Clear Dew Drops (Robin's Nest), Blender Pens, Pixie Pink Fun Flock, Scallop Circle, Circle, and Classic Oval Nestabilities, Zip Dry Paper Glue, 2-Way Glue Pen

June's Challenge

2009-07-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

June's Challenge was a beach theme. We had a member of our group bow out; life happens and sometimes we need to take a break to remember what our points are.

Here are the pictures: Bonnie's cards are first.

Here are my mom's cards:

And, here are mine:

Paper: Night of Navy, Brocade Blue, and Whisper White Ink: Pumpkin Pie, and Kiwi Kiss Stamps: Ocean Commotion Accessories: Stickles (Crystal), Circle Scissor Plus

Paper: Whisper White, Basic Black, Bashful Blue Stamps: Ocean Commotion Accessories: Circle Scissors Plus, Black Brads, Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Blue Pad, Black Chunky Glitter

Paper: Whisper White, Glorious Green, Kiwi Kiss, Lavender Lace, and Bashful Blue Ink: Basic Black, Real Red Stamps: Little Things Matter (CTMH), Sushi Bowl Party (Stampendous) Accessories: Stampin' Pastels, ZooBalloo (Cricut), and Stretch Your Imagination (Cricut), Zip Dry Paper Glue, and Sand from My Kids Shoes (really!)

I had a lot of fun creating these cards, I hope you like what we did!

Rite Aid Deals!

2009-07-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

Remember...I'm on a budget. Pretty tight to my budget from a month ago...now we are a single income family and, that income? It's mine. The little paycheck. The one that used to be used for "fun" stuff. We are managing. We are enjoying eachother. We are eating a ton of Otter Pops (Hey! It's been over 100 degrees here for two weeks!!) and drinking lots of Kool-Aid. We are "going back to basics", which, honestly, this little family really needed.

Really, I came to show you the deal I got at Rite Aid yesterday! Not one of those perfect deals that you see on Money Saving Mom or Deal Seeking Mom, but still, a good deal.

You see?

Out of Pocket I paid $10.36 for all this stuff! Can you believe it? I love Rite-Aid. They are a little bit pricier than some of the other stores out there...but, if you find some great coupons, you can really take advantage of the deals they are offering. The 2 deodorants? I had 2 coupons for $2.00 off for them (regular $9.49). (Hey, remember I said it's been over 100 degrees here, I need some heavy duty protection!!) And the razor? $9.99, minus $2.00 with another coupon I got from the paper. But, here's the kicker: Rite Aid offers REBATES! Yup, every month they put out a little catalog with deals for rebates. Some of them last all month, some only last a week. But, if you get the catalog and match up their rebates and sales with your coupons, *magic* can happen. This week they are offering a $5.00 rebate for the Venus razor (limit 1), and a $5.00 rebate for Dove Clinical deodorant (limit 2). So, in two weeks I will get a check for $15.00!

Not too bad, huh.

New Catty and July Weekly Deals!

2009-07-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

The new catalog is LIVE! Check out the side bar where you can download it and drool (just not on the keyboard, okay?) all over it. Loving the new stamp sets...I've been inspired! I still have a few catalogs left, so if you decide that drooling over your computer is not enough, contact me. For $10.00 you get the catalog AND a New Catalog Survivor Kit...something I found will help ease your transition from the old catalog to the new one. Contact me directly at ambercerda@hotmail.com.

July is going to be great for Stampin'Up! This month they are having weekly deals: every week they will offer something for a great, almost unbelievable, discount. This week? The Scallop Edge Punch! I love this thing! And right now, you can get your very own for $10.99! This punch usually costs $15.95. If you have been on the fence for this, now is the time to get it!!

Also, this month I'm offering a RIBBON SHARE! For $6.00 you will get 1 yard of each new InColor ribbon. (If it needs to be mailed, add $2.50 for shipping) Ribbon is awesome! You can change the entire look of a card simply by using ribbon; a great embellishment to any project! If you are interested, e-mail me for information on how to pay for the ribbon.

Last but not least, I would love to hear from you! Are you interested in a Paper Share? This could be any paper: Designer Series Paper, Cardstock (textured or not), even Vellum! How about a Button Share? Another Ribbon Share with different ribbons? Your thoughts are always welcome. With the economy being the way it is, I know all about having to make sacrifices. However, I am also quite aware of the benefits of having a hobby. Helping you to continue to create, regardless of budget, is my goal.

Graduation Owl

2009-06-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

My son graduated preschool this year. *sniff* *sniff* I still get a little teary eyed - he is my baby...and he is growing up so quickly!

Here is my "baby" - at the first of many graduations.

Here he is again, showing off a Graduation Owl that he helped make with various punches. We taped lollipops to them and handed them out to his classmates. He was very proud of himself, and I was quite impressed that he left the lollipops attached when he handed them out. He has been known to hide out in the pantry, the bathroom, even the coat closet, to eat his favorite snacks.

We used the Scallop Circle punch, the 1 3/4" circle punch, Round Tab punch, Heart to Heart Punch, the 5 Petal Flower punch (we initially just folded a piece of paper and cut it but decided to switch to the 5 Petal after playing around), the Small Tag Punch, the Word Window punch, the 1/2" Circle Punch, and a standard hole punch (from an office supply store??).

I enjoyed making this owl with my son, he requires a little more direction and a lot of independent hands-on time in order to keep his attention...we stayed up late to make them, drank chocolate milk, and really got some good bonding time in. He bragged to his sister in the morning that he stayed up past bedtime, had chocolate milk and got to use almost all of the punches...small individual moments that don't come too often are huge prizes in our house...I'm glad I remembered to take a picture.

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up." Pablo Picasso

Desk Set with Cards (MOJO92)

2009-06-27T16:15:00.001-07:00

Blog-hopping has caused me to be attacked by the creative bug (finally)!!

I found this great post regarding desk sets, a cute little box to fit a few cards into. To be short, you have to buy the template. I am all about supporting a fellow stamper, but, unfortunately, I do not have the money to shell out for a template. So, I took the thought, some scratch paper (8 1/2 x 11) and my Scor-Pal, and worked my way through it. Here is a picture of my 2nd attempt (first one DH splattered with Kool-Aid, a side effect of having to share your craft space with the kitchen table...).

Paper: Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery, Whisper White and Delicate Dots DSP
Stamps: Polka Dot Punches
Ink: Certainly Celery and Bashful Blue
Accessories: Scor-Pal, Scallop Edge Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, Clear Rhine Stone Brad, Dimensionals, Scissors

I still have some thoughts on improving "my template", and once I work out a few bugs, I promise to share.

I also created these cards to be included in the set:

The sketch for this card I got off Mojo Monday for this week (Week 92). I love that site and often look to it for inspiration when I get stuck.

Paper: Bashful Blue, Kraft, and Delicate Dots DSP
Stamps: Polka Dot Punches and Just A Little Note (Stampendous)
Ink: Bashful Blue and Basic Black
Accessories: Heart Punch and Heart Die (Sizzix), Certainly Celery Ribbon, Button from CTMH, Dimensionals, Scallop Rectangle Nestabilities and Rectangle Nestabilities

Paper: Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue, Delicate Dots DSP, Whisper White
Stamps: Polka Dot Punches (SU!), Just a Little Note by Stampendous
Ink: So Saffron and Basic Black
Accessories:1 1/4" Circle Punch, White Grosgrain Ribbon, Scissors, Clear Rhinestone Brad, Top Note Die

Paper: So Saffron, Bashful Blue, Delicate Dots DSP
Stamps: Just a Little Note (Stampendous)
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: White Grosgrain Ribbon, Scallop Edge Punch, Dimensionals, Rhinestones

Here it is all together! Hope you enjoy!

I HAVE THE NEW CATALOG!!

2009-06-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

I GOT IT!! (Actually, a whole box!!)

I've been through it, circling and highlighting, labeling, getting ideas, and LOVING IT!!

If you would like to purchase a copy, e-mail me at ambercerda@hotmail.com.

They have some amazing new stamps, the new InColors are BEAUTIFUL, and they have matching markers!!!

Plus, the new stamps in the "Under $10" Section are very versatile! I can't wait to order!

Post-It Note Holder

2009-06-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

A fellow SU! demo/blogger/mama recently admitted and shared her addiction for making note holders. While I thought that they were very cute, I could not post the exact item on my blog. I scoured blogs and thought and thought.

After searching and thinking, I found something on Dawn's Stamping Thoughts that I could easily create with scraps of paper. All you need is a base of 7 3/8" by 3 1/4" scored at 3 1/8", 3 1/2", and 3 7/8" and 3x3 Post-Its. Use some stamps or DSP scraps for backgrounds, a few punches and embellisments, and *poof* - A GREAT find.

So, Angela, I, too, must admit my addiction. So far, I have created three...here are pictures of two:

Paper: Lovely Lilac, Basic Black, Whisper White
Stamps: Botanical Blooms (SAB Catalog)
Ink: Basic Black and Lovely Lilac
Accessories: Scallop Oval Punch (Mini Occassions Catalog) and Large Oval Punch

Paper: Pink Passion, Ghostly Greetings DSP (Retired)
Stamps: Be Yourself (CTMH)
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: Acrylic block, Scallop Edge Punch

Life Update & Printable Coupons

2009-06-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

*Update* My life has changed. We are officially a one-income family. The unfortunate part is that it was unplanned, and it is the smaller income that we are going to be living off of. I have reviewed our budget, canceled a few things, limited expenses, and we will be selling things off. The job search has begun and we are exploring a few options that may be available to us.

So, you may be seeing a lot more posts about coupons and freebies. I hope that we all benefit from this change in my life.

So, without further delay - the First Coupon: $1.00 off Hostess Donettes! I love these things and now that summer is here, they will fit in perfect to that certain little girl's lunch box who needs to be transported to and from art camp during the next month.

Second: Kraft Macaroni & Cheese - Buy 3 get 1 Free! At Wal-Mart they have these for $0.50 - so you can get 4 for $1.50, try and print 2 for 8 boxes at $3.00.

Remember - these coupons are available to everyone that has a computer and a printer. Some coupon links have a Help link towards the bottom. If you click on this tab, there may be an option to also have the coupon mailed to you. If you are interested in a coupon, you need to act quickly. There are many people who are also looking to save money and with the media giving away our formerly secret links to hot deals and coupons, I am sure these things won't last long.

May's Challenge

2009-06-04T05:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the late posting - family crisis that I am still reeling over. Life may very well end as this small family knows it. I am angry and hurt, dissapointed and lost. Every emotion has run through my body and with only six hours of sleep from Tuesday night to today, I am a tad sensitive. I will do what I can to keep things together, to make sure that my children don't feel the effects too deeply, to try and grow from this moment.

May's challenge theme was Forest. I went crazy looking for stamp sets and items that I could use...but when it came down to it, my thoughts would not come out on paper and it seemed to take me reaching to the depths of whatever creativity I have to pull this one off. Of course, it did not help that my baby was graduating preschool (still a little emotional about that one...), my daughter struggled with end of the year testings, only to receive Honor Roll and various other academic awards (so stinkin' proud of her!!), and of course the gifts that went to teachers. We made it.

Ready? Here is what we did for May:

First set: Bonnie's. She made two cards and a magnet. The bear is covered in Fun Flock. My kids are wanting to know how come we don't make magnets - which will change shortly. (Psst...I found a great inspirational blog by Sandy Hancock, please make sure you check it out. She has some very fun and beautiful ideas!)

Second up: my Mom. She is a little concerned that all of her cards look the same. While I can feel my mom in a card, she is changing. She has started adding texture in her cards and I can see that she is adding more detail to the cards. Don't worry Mom, you're evolving.

Last but not least: Me!

This is a Joy Fold Card I got instructions for over at Split Coast Stampers. Love that site! Here is the card open.

Paper: Kiwi Kiss, DSP from Urban Oasis (soon to be retired!!) and Walk in the Park (to get it before it's gone click here)

Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Chocolate Chip, Basic Gray

Stamp Set: Forest Friends

Accessories: Dimensionals, Olive embossing powder (CTMH), VersaMark Pen

Paper: Kraft, Garden Green, Striped Paper from a DCWV Paper Stack
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Garden Green, Old Olive, Kiwi Kiss
Stamp Set: Trendy Trees
Accessories: Chocolate Chip 5/8" grosgrain ribbon, Jumbo Grommet, Spots and Dots Embossing Folder (Cuttlebug)

Paper: Old Olive, Old Olive DSP, Chocolate Chip DSP
Ink: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip
Stamp Set: Treetops (CTMH)
Accessories: Acrylic Block, Dimensionals, Crystal Effects, White Embossing Powder, VersaMark, Linen Thread, Chocolate Chip button from Button Latte, Sweet Leaf button from CTMH Winter Craft Buttons, Oval and Rectangle Nestabilities,

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

“The growth of grace is like the polishing of metals. There is first an opaque surface; by and by you see a spark darting out, then a strong light; till at length it sends back a perfect image of the sun that shines upon it.” -Edward Payson