Are we there yet?

PTI 5 year anniversary!!

2012-02-08T14:51:00.000-06:00

Papertreyink is having their 5 year anniversary celebration and it's also the countdown to their monthly release. Lots and lots of great things going on, sneak peeks, new wearable merchandise, check it out! Each day they have new contest. Today's is taking a favorite color combination of one of the DT members and making your own project. I chose these

colors. And made this card:

I promise they are the same colors...I don't know maybe it's my monitor that's not showing the colors correctly but hopefully you can see that I did use Berry Sorbet, Ripe Avocado and Raspberry Fizz. Yummy color combo Dawn chose! And it just so happens that I got a small goody box from PTI last week with Raspberry Fizz and Berry Sorbet cardstock in my order! yay me! I also got the Mehndi Medallion stamp set and I've been itching to use it.

So there's my entry.

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Wednesday:)

Kathy

What I used:

PTI cardstock

PTI Mehndi Medallion stamp set

PTI Big Thank you stamp

PTI Berry Sorbet ink

Memento ink

Mat Stack 4 die

Mat Stack Layerz die

PTI Impression plate

Kaisercraft rhinestones

WeRMemoryKeepers corner chomper

pop dots

Ooh Valentine's day is around the corner!

2012-02-07T17:39:00.001-06:00

Is everyone prepared? Any great plans? I don't know what's being planned...dh is being rather secretive. But I didn't wait til the eleventh hour this year to make my cards! I confess I have not done housework and since dh is on a hunting trip I haven't had to cook dinner. Yay! I have even given myself permission to stay in my pjs and hang out in my scraproom all day. Anyone else do that? I love it when I have the time and the ideas and can scrap with no interruptions. So enough talking, here's what I've been making.

Sorry again for the blurr! I really had fun making these cards, but then I usually do when I have ideas! The card on the far right with all the hearts was the only one I scraplifted from this card by Heather Nichols. The rest are my own ideas. I know they are simple but that's my style and I'm tired of trying to fight it. I just don't do very well with many layered cards...pretty much I'm a klutz and if I can screw something up, I usually do!

I'm getting excited for this Valentine's day maybe because my devotionals have all been about love. God's love, what it is, how He expresses it. The purest expression of love was Jesus choosing to die for me on the cross. Here's a song I really like a lot. Enjoy!

Happy Tuesday Evening!

much love & tfl:)

Kathy

What I used:

PTI White and Rustic White cardstock

Daisy D's pp

Studio G stamps

Stampin Up! Stamps

Wplus9 stamps

Hero Arts stamps

Distress inks

Memento inks

Colorbox pigment inks

Silhouette scalloped heart digital image

Fiskars border scallop punch

pop dots

Quick Post

2012-02-01T22:30:00.003-06:00

2peas is having their CHA Social Event and have listed several challenges. I decided to participate in theColor Combo Challenge mainly because the colors are ones I don't ordinarily work with. I had an idea in mind to make an argyle pattern but my argyle print stamp is the size of a postage stamp and my prototype did not come to life the way I intended. I almost gave up but then came up with idea #2. I will admit this isn't my favorite card in the whole world but I did challenge myself. The colors just seemed to cry out for a brown card base instead of a black but I made the first one with the black base. And then just because I had to see if I was right, I made the second with the brown base...doesn't sound like a very exciting day does it?!! But hey, I was right, brown just works better. Okay so that's my day (other than work and that was nothing to write home about) here are my cards.

I want to keep track of the things I am choosing today-My word for the year is "choose" so today I choose to be joyful. Joyful for my salvation first. Joyful for my new life in Christ. Joyful for a fabulous husband who indulges me way too much. Joyful that he has a job. Joyful that we can pay the bills and put food on the table. Joy, I have found is contagious. As I was walking out of a place of business today I was smiling big and the person walking in saw my smile and as she walked past me she smiled this big beautiful radiant smile. Wow! That smile really blessed me. I wonder if mine blessed her? Now I want to smile at everyone all the time...

blessings y'all,

Kathy

What I used:

American Crafts cardstock-black

PTI Rustic white cardstock

Versamagic chalk ink

Colorbox chalk ink

Zig writer pen

Technique Tuesday Old World Squares stamp set

Technique Tuesday Friends We Love stamp set

Ribbon-?

We R Memory Keepers corner chomper

Perfect Pearls misted - card#1

Kaisercraft rhinestones-card#1

A new card-another "it only took me all day"

2012-01-26T17:57:00.002-06:00

I'm so slow!! Oh well, it's been a really good day so I guess slow isn't the worst thing that can happen. I was checking out the 2 peas board and saw a new challenge for cardmaking hosted by Kimber McGray. Her card is very Valentiney and I love it but just wasn't into making a Valentine's card yet. I'm kind of going for last minute with that...lol-I seem to do better work when it's down to the wire. Anyone know what I mean? Anyway, here's my card

I like it. I'm thinking it would work well for a guy or a girl. The cardstock looks black but it's really a dark gray. Okay, well that's it from me. Hope your evening is wonderful!

Thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

What I used:

PTI smokey gray, stampers select white, harvest gold and summer sunrise cardstock

Hero Arts sentiment

Hero Arts Many Dots

Hero Arts Ledger background stamp

Inkadinkado stamp-on gold panel

Colorbox pigment inks

Versamark embossing ink

Zing white embossing powder

Stampendous clear embossing powder

Pop dots

PTI blog hop!

2012-01-25T15:04:00.001-06:00

Papertreyink is sponsoring a blog hop today and you'd think I would have been all prepared today to just get right to making my card or better yet that I would have made it way ahead of time...in a perfect world that would happen! But then again that wouldn't be MY world! lol. The idea was to take a past PTI project and update it in some way...that was the first hard thing for me. I mix my stamps and ingredients in most of my cards so coming up with something mostly PTI was very hard. And I love PTI!! I just don't own a ton of their things...gotta remedy that. Anyway, I remembered a card that I'd made when the Stamp A Faire online challenges were going on...except I wasn't able to participate at the time. Now on to my new recreated card. I'm quite happy with it and plan on sending it to my niece for her 34th birthday. ETA: I added 3 pearls to the white strip going down the side. Just looked a little plain.

And here's the original card:

I like this card...I'm not one to follow designs exactly but this idea came from another card I saw online. Don't remember where I saw it otherwise I would link it. Anyway, I'm enjoying my day listening to my favorite Christian streaming web radio and playing with stamps, inks and paper.

The weather report keeps saying we are expecting heavy rains but so far...just gray skies and lots of wind. So I'm staying inside just incase!

Hope your day is going well.

Blessings and thanks for stopping by,

Kathy

What I used:

PTI Raspberry Fizz, white and kraft cs

PTI Mat stack four stamp collection and die

PTI Mat stack four Layerz die

PTI Wildflower Garden stamp set

Colorbox Moss green pigment ink

Colorbox Creamy Brown Chalk ink

Mojo Monday card sketch

Green cs-?? can't remember since it was just a piece of the original

Great scrapping weekend!

2012-01-23T16:32:00.003-06:00

Well really I was gone a full week but ended up only getting the equivalent of a weekend's (a short one at that!) worth of scrapping done. A week spent with my best friend, Anita, at her house was just what I needed to jump start my scrapping brain again. I can make cards easily but for some reason layouts always challenge me. Anyone else feel the same way? I'm blessed to have such a good friend who not only has a room always waiting for me but buys groceries she knows I like!
Here is one of the layouts I did and of course it was inspired by Sketches for Scrapbooking by Allison Davis at SketchSupport. I have 3 of her books, volumes 6, 7 & 8. love them all. I think I got this particular layout from their website because I forgot to pack my books! Really! where is that check list when I need it for packing supplies? Oh, here's the layout:

These photos are from a trip I took in 2009 with my mom to Santa Fe, N.M. It was October and just gorgeous. Mom lives in Phoenix and I live in Louisiana so our fall color happens in oh, December! What a treat to see fall color in the fall. I've got a few more layouts to share over the next few days so drop by and check them out. Just a little aside-I've mentioned it before but sayin again-I won the Scrap n Easel that is holding my layouts on Jingle's blog last year and I do like it so much. I scrap at a bar height table at home so I don't use it then, but when I go to crops, retreats or any other place where I have to sit at a regular height table this thing is indispensible! Just thought you'd like to know:)
Have a wonderful evening.
Kathy

What I used:
American Crafts Cardstock (orange)
Paper Studio Natural Botanical pattern papers
Silhouette Studio Digital design-autumn time
Silhouette Studio digital design-pumpkins
Sketch Support 2 page layout design - from their website

Notes home

2012-01-09T14:20:00.001-06:00

After finding a 4x8 piece of PTI kraft cardstock (don't even know why that size) I decided to make a smaller card using my PTI Mat Stack Four stamps & die & my brand new PTI Glory Be stamp set. That one turned out so cute and simple I just had to make another one and before you know I'd made a set of four. Isn't that die shape lovely?

The only stamps that aren't PTI are the flower, butterfly and "thanks for everything". Sorry, once again, for a blurry photo!
I have to say I adore the Glory Be stamp set!! I must say "Heavens to Betsy" at least once a day, followed by "goodness gracious" and "for Pete's sake". One of the saying's "My land of livin" is something my grandmother and aunt said all the time!!
You should check out the whole set here and while I'm at it here's the mat stack four stamp set too. One of the things I love about PTI is how crisp their images are and how many stamps you get in a set. A really great value for those of us on a budget!
I don't work for PTI, just love their products.
That's it from me on this very rainy, humid, sticky day. (it's so humid I think my cardstock is curling!)
Praying blessings for you today,
Kathy

What I used:
PTI kraft cardstock
PTI stampers select white cardstock
Versamagic dew drop chalk inks
Colorbox chalk ink
PTI Glory Be stamp set
PTI Mat Stack 4 stamp set
PTI Mat stack 4 die
W R Memory Keepers Corner chomper

HSCRC12-Hymn & Scripture Challenge

2012-01-06T17:14:00.001-06:00

I've decided to join Patter's Hymn and Scripture challenge and hope to stick with it all year. Her first lesson on the song Amazing Grace really touched my heart as it has always been a favorite of mine. A lot of believers love this song! Over the years I've heard many singers incorporate words from this hymn into other worship songs and I have one that has become close to my heart. I first heard it on an old Breakaway cd that my daughter gave me when Greg Matte was the worship leader up in College Station. I couldn't find a way to imbed that song but I found Christy Nockels and she sings it just as beautifully.
In thinking about God's grace there is no way I could not give complete thanks and praise to Him in extending me grace from the very outset. He sent Jesus to die for me. Amazing grace! Jesus was glad to die for me! Amazing love! The combination of those two acts, grace and love, make me what I am today...SAVED. I'm so very, very glad God has not held against me all my sins, but freely has forgiven me, freely accepts me, because I believe in the Son He sent. And only because of that faith am I now called His child! "From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another." John 1:16

So here's my layout. I chose to do a 5x7 size as Patter is doing. I like that it will get displayed on my coffee table (as soon as I find a stand and protectors for it!)

That's my amazing grace story. What's yours? If you don't know Jesus yet, you can! All you need to do is believe Christ died for you confess that and ask for cleansing. Ask Christ to be Savior of your life and He will. Romans 10:9 says "That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead you will be saved."

Praying for you!

Kathy

What I used:

Bazzill and AC cardstock

Paper Studio patterned paper (Christmas paper)

Daisy Buckets patterned paper (butterflies)

PTI verse stamp

PTI Fillable Frames #4 die

Silhouette digital image mat behind die cut

Silhouette digital image butterflies

Colorbox chalk ink

Inkadinkdo swirl stamp

Versamark ink

Stampendous glitter embossing powder

Loved the card Maile made!

2012-01-01T18:27:00.000-06:00

I had to try and do something similar...since I didn't have the polka dot set she used I gathered up circles from different stamps and voila! I like it!

I also did not have the exact ink colors she used or the buttons, or really much else. LOL. And I had a minor accident but turned it into a part of the card.

How was everyone's New Year's Day? Felt a little different to not be watching the parade but I managed to get a few scrappy things done and listened to my favorite pastor speak on being a friend of God's, as Abraham was. The point that stuck out to me was that God wants intimacy with us. He created marriage between a man and a woman and the intimacy they share to be a picture of the special intimacy God wants with each of us. Abraham was intimate with the Lord, so much so, that God revealed to Abraham, his plan for Sodom, Gomorrah and surrounding communities. Amazing that God would reveal his plans to us! But that is what we can have, each one of us can have if we will walk closely with the Lord, holding back nothing.

Gotta run,

thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

what I used:

GP white cardstock

Hero Arts, Technique Tuesday stamps for

circles and sentiment

Stampin Up! flower stamp

AC black cardstock

AC black buttons

white floss

Colorbox pigment ink pads

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-31T17:18:00.000-06:00

Hey Y'all!
It's been quite some time since I was here. Oh! I don't even want to go into the boring details of my life, but I just kept hitting a wall creatively speaking. I went through a couple of those times before I just decided to take a break and not give myself a time frame. But yay! I'm back. And here's a card I made this afternoon-yes, the photo is blurry...the bane of my existence. LOL. just joking. It really looks much prettier IRL.

The inside:

Nothing fancy just fast and easy!

Well that's all from me today. Hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year!

thanks for stopping by,

Kathy

What I used:

PTI cardstock- Aqua Mist

DCWV patterned paper- Linen Closet

Hero Arts clear stamp- Carte Postale

Hero Arts clear stamp- Live and Laugh sentiment

Colorbox chalk ink- Chestnut Roan

Stickles glitter glue-diamond

Various buttons

Ek Success border punch

The first day of fall...

2011-09-08T17:18:00.000-05:00

occurs this month! I love fall, love the colors, love, love the splendor and beauty God displays throughout this wonderful season. I love fall so much I was married on the first day of fall way back on Sept.22, 1979...but this year it occurs on the 23rd (the first day of fall, not my anniversary! lol)
I think fall gets a bad rap-everyone is consumed with costumes, carving pumpkins, and a plethora of candy! No disrepect to those who enjoy all that!

I just prefer Thanksgiving-it's my favorite holiday, by far. I know! right?! Most everyone loves Christmas the most, and don't get me wrong, I do love Christmas, celebrating the birth of my Savior (I don't take that lightly) but there's just something so special about Thanksgiving. So in honor of fall I made this card with my new stamp set from Raisinboat stamps. I have to say I think it's going to become part of my permanent collection!

Hope you've had a crafty day or are getting ready for a crafty evening. Thanks for stopping by!
Kathy

What I used:
PTI white and ripe avocado cardstock
Colorbox chalk ink-tangerine, lime, chestnut roan, creamy brown
Raisinboat stamp set-Arboretum leaves

I'm ba-ack!

2011-09-01T15:37:00.002-05:00

Where have I been?? Tell you in a minute- first things first...I made a card!! I know! Right?! I was seriously beginning to wonder if Mrs. Mojo would ever return...she left a lot of things undone, let me tell you. Ha!

I did have this card sketched in my head well before Mrs. M decided to depart so it was really just a matter of feeling inspired enough to take it from my head to the finished product. I love, love the Star of Wonder stamp set by Verve. A big thank you to Cathleen at SCS for sharing a link to it. It is the perfect star and sentiment!! But really what got me inspired in the first place was the bird stamp by 7 Gypsies. I just knew when I saw it that it had to be part of my Christmas card design. I'm pretty happy with the design, just wondering if it still needs some doodad or something.:)

Now, you may not notice too much of a difference between the cards but the first one is layered with black cardstock, gold shimmer cardstock with a PTI Pure Poppy card base. The second card is layered with AC cardstock Spinach, gold shimmer cardstock and the same Pure Poppy card base but I've moved the dove and the sentiment. I could go with either one but thought it might be fun to hear what you had to say! Leave a comment for your choice and also tell me if it still needs a little something.

Okay, what's been going on? Wish I could say I was on a cruise, or had some really important work to do, taking classes or something great, but no...I ran out of steam...literally hit a brick wall. I don't know if I've worked through all of it but I do believe I am in the midst of changing my routine for a while. My heart's desire is to share the love of God with people-on the internet, in my community, etc. So I just started evaluating if I was doing that, is anyone being reached who reads this blog? Is anyone able to see the Lord in my work? Does the Lord get the glory or am I taking it for myself?

Seriously, I know this little blog is not going to reach huge masses, but I do want what I do, what I say, what I make to be a vehicle for reaching even just one person reading this. What do I want you to know? That God loves you. Not the "pat-on-the-back God loves you" sentiment, but God really, deeply, honestly, totally and completely loves you. That the proof of that love is that He sent Jesus Christ to die, to take your place, to pay your price, to redeem you from the pit of hell,so that you can live eternally with Him. John 3:16 And He sent Him knowing we did not care, had no concern or thought of Him. Romans 5:8 That all of us have sinned and have fallen short of God's standard. Romans 3:23 That all you have to do is accept Jesus as your Savior. To acknowledge that there is nothing you can do on your own to gain acceptance. God's only way to heaven, His plan was and is Jesus. John 14:6 Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me." That you need to know there is absolutely nothing you've done or will ever do that will keep God from forgiving you. That you don't have to "clean up your act" first. Accepting Christ is the first step in the "clean up" process. God is the One who cleans us up. And then for you to know, that once God forgives you, you're forgiven forever. Romans 8:1

Now it's the start of a brand new life!

This is my burden. This is my heart's cry. That you would know and believe in the Lord.

I'm praying for you!

Kathy

Working on it...mojo seriously needed!!

2011-08-24T16:43:00.003-05:00

I was going through my pictures from last year and came across this one. I remembered loving it when I first saw what I'd captured and I still do. Somewhere on the back roads having just left Balmorhea State Park. Just a random share:)

It is confounding when you want to create and nothing seems to inspire you! I have visited blogs, watched Youtube videos, looked through catalogs, shopped online (only to put it back) and for whatever reason, Mrs. Mojo has not appeared. I was even going to work on my Christmas cards since I'd already sketched out the idea (in my head) no actually I stamped a proto type with a stand-in for part of my card, but every time I tried to stamp my images came out blurry, smooshed, or not inked all the way. I think part of the problem with my cards is I have a very specific star shape in mind and could not locate it anywhere!! Drat!
So I started scrolling through SCS and 2peas just reading when I thought I should post about my quest for the perfect star stamp...and after a couple of posts a darling gal, Cathleen, led me to the perfect stamp. So maybe once I get that stamp I'll get revived:)
Anyway, as I was perusing SCS one of the banners at the top said "It's our birthday!" so don't you know I had to check that out. Annabelle Stamps is having a birthday celebration and giveaway. Just go check it out-you could win!
Hoping others are having a scrappy, stampy time!
Thanks for stopping by.
Kathy

It's been a week of dr. appts.!

2011-08-18T07:55:00.000-05:00

Haven't been able to create or post with dr. appts. for both dh and I. But I have been browsing occasionally while I wait in the dr's. office and while I don't have kids at home any longer this paper Fancy Pants looks awesome. Love the glasses and polka dot patterns! And this paper pad is sooo pretty (don't usually go for Prima paper) but love that paper pad. And I have been sneaking in a few visits to some of my fav blogs...Jill is such a talented Girlie, just love her creations! I don't visit here as much as I should, just look at that cute thing! And Jennifer Mcguire is having a Basic Grey giveaway so go check it out! I have to put in a plug for one of my favorite places to shop they always have the best prices and coupons here.
So I hope to come back tomorrow with something crafty to post, until then I hope and pray your days are wonderful and full of blessings even in the midst of crisis. In these doubtful times I'm so glad to know that God is in charge of my eternity. You can know for sure where you're going too, all you need to do is place your life in the hands of Jesus, confessing Him as Lord and Savior of your life. If you'd like to know more leave me a comment! I'd be more than happy to talk with you.
Hugs,
Kathy

Mojo Monday...a week late!

2011-08-09T11:12:00.002-05:00

I just didn't have any "mojo" for this card sketch until a week after it was over! Just couldn't seem to get inspired until I remembered this Authentique paper pad... and a recent purchase at that! I won't go into all the drama that's been happening with this company, I just like their papers and want to use them. I moved the sentiment in the sketch 202 but kept everything else. It's a little more "stuff" than I usually do, but it's okay to step out of your usual style every once in a while.

It's rather a mundane Tuesday. Not much happening, though I am excited by two great stamp companies upcoming releases. Check out their blogs Papertreyink and Verve- scroll down to sneak peak #4 on Nichole's blog...love the gingko leaves! One of the sentiments I am so looking forward to from Verve is "Life doesn't have to be perfect to be wonderful" isn't that such a good reminder for us?

Off to get some things done in my "imperfect but wonderful" life!

Thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

What I used:

Authentique Blissful 6x6 paper pad

Worldwin card stock

Hero Arts button

Silhouette digital designs-scalloped circle, flower

Technique Tuesday sentiment

Colorbox pigment ink

Stampendous clear embossing power

dimensional foam tape

Oh quick tip! I cut this card 4" x 5 1/2" and made it landscape rather than portrait. I read somewhere quite a while back that you can stretch your 12x12 card stock to use for making cards, by cutting the paper every 4 inches rather than 4 1/4, so you get 3 cards instead of just two. And they still work in an A2 envelope.

New day and a new card!

2011-08-07T13:43:00.002-05:00

I have a few Tombow markers that I bought years ago but I've never really used them much. I remember buying them because the teacher in a card class I took said they worked well for coloring your stamps. I bought a couple of sets (some have dried up!) and tried coloring directly on my stamps...that took too much time, in my opinion, so I put them aside. I'm still not too much of a fan of coloring my stamps directly but decided I'd try coloring in my stamped images. Now granted this isn't much of an image (probably why I enjoyed coloring them, lol!) but I like how they turned out with my amateur skills. I made this card to send to a friend I don't get to see much more than once a year now, think she'll like it?

Hope everyone is enjoying their Sunday afternoon. I am!
Thanks for stopping by:)
Kathy

What I used:
PTI card stock
Canson watercolor paper
Tombow Markers
Hero Arts Layered Flowers stamp set
Stampabilities Single Flourish (damask) stamp
Studio G frame and sentiment stamp set
Colorbox black pigment ink
Stampendous clear embossing powder
Stickles Diamond glitter glue
Michael's sheer black ribbon
EK Success 1" circle punch
EK Success 1 1/2" circle punch

Today and a card

2011-08-05T07:55:00.001-05:00

Okay, so I've been praying that God would reveal His will for my life in this season I'm in, that He would show me what He wants of me, from me. What do you want me to do for you, Lord? Daily I pray this and today He answered. This morning as my husband and I read our devotion together we read this, "God desires one gift from man: humble hearts." God loves each of us but He has a favorite type of person; humble, contrite, and one who trembles at His Word." The devotion went on to urge us to ask "Do I walk in humility, recognizing God's mastery over my life? Do I relish the thought of being a servant of all? Do I walk in contrition, recognizing my complete undeservedness of any of God's kindness? Do I revere Scripture as the authoritative rule of my life? Would my pastor, spouse, children, co-workers say that I am a humble person?
Funny those questions should come now, at this time in my life when I've been dealing with a bad case of being impatient. It's been one of those puzzling, exasperating times when you would think I have nothing in the world to get impatient about. And that's my point...I don't have a big agenda, there are no deadlines looming over me, I don't have a tyrant boss breathing down my neck, or the pressure of taking kids everywhere while thinking about what I'm going to cook for dinner while thinking about making dentist and doctor appts, and how we'll pay for it all. I get to spend time in my scrap room without little children, or even big children to care for (okay occasionally I think of my husband as my big child. LOL) Life is pretty okay for me in the time department so why all the impatience?!
Hmmm...I'm being shown that impatience is just a disguise for "thinking more highly of me"... nowhere near the humility God requires. So revisiting the question above, "Would my pastor, spouse, children, co-workers say that I'm a humble person?" Uh...No, not right now they wouldn't. So what's the answer? "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you...Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you." James 4:8 &10 I'm listening Lord, I'm listening!

So here's my card for today. I've been playing with this PTI Merci stamp and a few of my older, seldom used Studio G stamps. I hate that I have some stamps that I bought without thinking much and now they sit and sit. So I've been seeing cards lately in magazines where they've repeated one or two elements over and over again and decided to try it myself. It actually works great for smaller stamps that can't stand on their own (like most of the Studio G stamps) While none of this is new technique, it was fun to play! I heat embossed with sentiment with clear embossing powder and my heat gun but of course it doesn't show up in the photo! It's there, I promise!

Thanks for stopping by today. Hope your day is amazing in every way.

Kathy

What I used:

Bazzill cardstock

PTI cardstock

Studio G stamps

PTI stamp-sentiment

Versamagic chalk ink

Colorbox pigment ink

Versamark ink

Ranger clear embossing powder

heat gun

We R Memory Keepers corner chomper

Mojo Monday always inspires me

2011-07-28T12:12:00.001-05:00

I am always inspired by the Mojo Monday blog sketch, even if I don't participate every time. This week I loved that you could do a square card! I'm always thinking it has to be a 6 in. square but they suggested a 4.25 square and it still fits in an A2 envelope. So here's my take on the sketch. It's a rainy Thursday here and I'm kinda missing the sunshine and blue skies so I picked some happy paper appropriately named Sunshine Lollipops. I cut out that cute little bird from one of the patterns and popped her up...isn't she adorable? Come on, check them out and play along!

thanks for stopping by,
Kathy

What I used:
Sassafrass Lass Sunshine Lollipops pp
PTI cardstock
AC ribbon
Verve sentiments stamps from Because of You
Memento Tuxedo black ink
dimensional foam tape

Am I too late for the Faire?! LOL...2nd post for the night

2011-07-26T21:49:00.003-05:00

PTI had their Stamp A Faire Saturday and they posted online challenges for those who could not attend! But I was not feeling great Saturday so I didn't participate. Wah, wah:( One of the challenges was to cut back your card front slightly and use the exposed inside edge to create some sort of stamped strip. This is the card I made yesterday. Love how it turned out, personally. Actually love these ink colors, Razzberry and Moss Green with a little bit of Creamy Brown. Yeah, and I am not a pink girl, but this pink is wow! and paired with the yellowy green...Awesome (singing) I am not a neat and tidy stamper, though I 'heart' that style! My stamping is accidental and rather messy (God what were you thinking?!) and this card is an accident-I almost threw it away. It is kinda awkward and skewed but the more I look at it the more I like it. Now you know if I had purposed to make this kind of card I wouldn't have been able to pull it off for the life of me...some Murphy's law thing.
Anyway, thanks for stopping by!
G'night:)
Kathy

What I used:
PTI cardstock-kraft and white
PTI Wildflower garden stamp set
PTI Life stamp set-sentiments
Colorbox pigment ink-Razzberry, Moss green
Colorbox chalk ink-Creamy Brown
AC, HL MM buttons
DMC white floss
Tim Holtz distressing tool

A stormy day

2011-07-26T16:21:00.004-05:00

It's been threatening to storm all day and finally the skies broke, pouring rain, bringing lightning flashes and rolling thunder! For those of us who've endured months of drought it's a wonderful day! As a matter-of-fact there's been rain nearly every day for the past week...thank you Lord!
It's been a hard day for me, even as much as I welcome the rain. Weeks of migraines have reduced me to tears and worse, total impatience with everyone. Even my puppy dog is tucking his tail when he sees me. That makes me very sad.
Thankfully I can retreat to my scrap room where I can listen to KLOVE and scrap away while refocusing my mind on the Lord. I'm also very thankful to have the most patient husband in the world (I know, many of you would say the same of your husbands) He's off work this week puttering around the house, just happy to spend time with me! I am blessed abundantly.
I recently read on SCS about Raisin Boat stamp rental and remembered I'd checked them out last year but put them on the back burner for other things. With my memory jogged I visited their website and am happy to report THEY HAVE A GOOD THING GOING!! I signed up for a trial membership for a mere $5.99 (a month for two months) and filled out a rental list. It's a Netflix type of thing where you fill out a list and they send you the first two stamp sets on your list. Oh and the great thing is they include a stamped envelope for you to mail back your stamps whenever you like. No time limit!! and when they get the stamps back, they send you the next two on your list. How cool is that?!! And if you like the stamps you're renting you can purchase them for a discounted price. So you know what I'm going to say, right?! Go! Check them out! I don't work for them just like their product.
Oh, the card above was made with one of their stamp sets..
Thanks for stopping by and thanks for taking the time to comment-really does bring me joy!
Blessings,
Kathy

What I used:
Raisin Boat stamp set Stunning Silhouettes
Hero Arts Envelope stamp
PTI card stock
Daisy D's pp
Colorbox Chalk ink
Tim Holtz Distress Ink
Hero Arts pearls
Tim Holtz distressing tool
dimensional foam tape

A new version of my Verve card

2011-07-20T15:30:00.002-05:00

Quick post! I've learned I have to put my camera on the tripod for all web postings-much better clarity, now I just need better lighting!

This was my original card made for the Mojo Monday 200 challenge, but I got very intimidated when I saw that Julee had used this paper collection for her card so I put it aside. Her card is gorgeous but I finally got up the courage to post mine today. The paper backing the card and elements is not quite that bright... cameras and the web do strange things to colors! You can't see it, of course, but the butterflies are pretty and sparkly with Stickles glitter glue. Wouldn't you know the digital label design I picked had to be slightly wonky! I didn't have anything to do with that, it's the design. I have such a desire for perfection but I can never execute it so I've given up and let things be slightly off!!
Thanks for looking! Happy Wednesday Y'all:)
P.S.-all went well with the MRI, seems I DO have a brain...guess I can't use "no brain cells" anymore?! LOL. No tumors, no aneurysms, no cancer, etc.. we're trying to figure out why I'm having so many migraines and ear aches (no infections, no fluid). So next stop another ENT dr.
What I used:
DCWV card stock
Crate Paper Portrait collection pp
Verve verse stamp
Versacolor pigment ink pad
Digital die cut label from Silhouette library
Digital die cut butteflies from Silhouette library
Digital die cut torn paper strip from Silhouette library
Stickles glitter glue on butterflies
Michael's sheer ribbon
Hobby Lobby pearls

Third post for the day! Verve sketch

2011-07-19T21:19:00.003-05:00

I tried shooting this card on a white background and it was so bright,I just didn't like it at all. But I'm not sure I like this background any better...oh well-I may retry in the morning. Here's my take on the Mojo Monday Verve Sketch 200.
Sometimes I can be late to the party when it comes to patterned paper, as is the case here. When I was in Houston last week, I made a trip to Archiver's (just about the only scrap store for miles and miles) and found their "clearance" section. I loved Basic Grey's Porcelain when it came out but couldn't find it locally and never ordered it online so what luck to find this particular pattern clearanced..."marked down marginally" would be a better sign! LOL-I mean, Really! what happened to a good ole half price sale? Oh but what's price when you love a pattern so much? Huh? Anyone know what I mean? So this paper became my muse for the Verve sketch, but it did kinda throw me since there are only 2 colors in gradient shades and white to choose from. I played with opposites but the paper got lost and I didn't know where to look first. So why mess up a good thing? I went with the colors already in the pattern. Turned out really pretty!
What I used:
PTI Spring Moss, Ripe Avocado card stock
Georgia Pacific white card stock
Basic Grey Porcelain windmere pp
SEI Claire pp
Michael's sheer white ribbon
Wplus9 flower stamp
Verve verse stamp
Versacolor Bamboo pigment ink
Versamark watermark ink
EK Success border punch
Spellbinders standard circles large
Scotch dimensional foam tape

As for the verse, it's one I've learned over and over again in my walk with the Lord. Delighting in the Lord seemed like a hard thing to do. What does that even mean? As a young mother I could relate with delighting in my kids, delighting in my clean house, or delighting in some time with my husband but delighting in the Lord? I wasn't sure it was achievable. But through the years I've come to understand that delighting in the Lord is reading His Word, studying it, memorizing it, allowing His Word to work in my heart and mind so that I see life from His perspective instead of my own. It's acting on what I know to be true. As He changes my heart, what I want changes too. Where I used to be focused on what I could get from a relationship, I am now far more interested in getting to know people and what I can give in the relationship. I'm not worried about being accepted by others but how can I help others feel accepted...not boasting at all here, Gals. I will be the first to admit selfishness runs deep in my heart. It seems miraculous to me that "delight yourself in the Lord" could change my self-focused ways! I'm for that:)
If you made it to the end of this post, I commend you! I hope you do read to the end...I'm praying for you!
Thanks for stopping by and thank you for the comments. I appreciate them more than you know:)
Kathy

7-20 edited my picture with a little better crop detail. Sill couldn't find an adequate background.

Second post for the day-to see blog candy post scroll down

2011-07-19T10:31:00.002-05:00

Just Jingle has posted a challenge (well she said "homework") to use this sketch from Skipping Stones. I don't have any of their wonderful stamps yet, but thought I would play along. Please don't compare me to Jingle's creativity...I will lose that one because she is awesome! But here's my card anyway...

Now I'm supposed to be getting ready for my dr. appointment to tell me what my MRI says (praying it says nothing bad!) but what am I doing?...making another post! So now I better dash off to get dressed and somewhat presentable for my dr.
thanks for stopping by!
Many blessings:)
Kathy

what I used:
PTI ripe avocado card stock
SEI Dill blossom patterned paper-solid side
Crate Paper Portrait collection patterned paper
TCP Happy Birthday sentiment
Fiskars Frame stamps
Offray brown ribbon
crocheted ribbon-???
Chestnut Roan Colorbox chalk ink
sewing machine
Glitter embossing powder
Versamark ink pad

Found Blog candy!

2011-07-19T06:41:00.002-05:00

Hey Y'all,
Sorry for not posting but I've been taking care of my sweet wonderful 2 yr. old granddaughter and it's never a dull moment! Now I have caught her mommy's cold soI've been down for the past few days fighting it...I do not love a summer cold...or a winter cold...or any cold really!

This is Faith wearing her "Ashies" skirt. It's just a little sparkly tulle skirt we found at Dollar Tree. She fell in love with it and the first thing she did when she came home was put it on, then she started running around in circles singing "Ashies"-it's the only part she knows from Ring Around the Rosie (her daddy taught it to her) sooo cute! Well here she had stopped running and was putting glitter stickers (also from Dollar Tree) on.
So I was visiting one of my favorite bloggers, Jill and her friend Nancy, has taken over her blog while she is away. Nancy has some blog candy she is offering. Go, visit, add your name, you could win it!!
Just sayin, as Jingle would say :)
Have an awesome day and thanks for stopping by!
Kathy

Sketch support card #5

2011-07-06T15:31:00.003-05:00

This is going to be a quick post (my second for the day!) My MIL's birthday is this Sunday and as I was perusing sketch support I found their great card sketches. This one is pretty much an exact copy of theirs- I didn't deviate at all.But I did challenge myself to do two things 1.) work with blue...not my strong suit and 2.) use my older stash. Mission accomplished!
thanks for looking!
Kathy

What I used:
White card stock-do not remember where I got it, possibly HL
Bazzill blue card stock
Bazzill green card stock
Chatterbox Chateau pp
Bo Bunny Swirl stamp
TCP studios Happy Birthday stamp
Palette Noir black ink
Kaiser kraft black gems
WRMemoryKeepers corner chomper

Good morning!

2011-07-06T09:56:00.001-05:00

So I've decided to try colored pencils again. I was aiming for something VERY simple for my simple coloring skills. I like it well enough (even though it still needs work) that I made 5 others for OWH. I do not have many birthday images, lots of sentiments but not many images so I went to Michael's in search of something quick and easy and found this cupcake image by Inkadinkado, actually there are 3 images in the set for the super cheap price of $4.99 but all stamps were 40% off. Pretty great! The label image is from the Studio G new series that sells for $1.49, also at 40% off. I used diamond stickles on the confetti but it's hard to see in pics. Love the sentiment from that little stamp set!

Oh we've had more rain yesterday and more chance for rain today! I am so thankful to the Lord for He is the One who sends the rain! As I think about that I also think about how grateful I am that He loves me. Sometimes that's not easy, sounds like a really casual thing to say "God loves me and you", it's hard when life is hurting, when there's no peace and no joy and everything looks bleak and all I want is for SOMETHING, one THING, to go right! I just want the peace of knowing something is working out right! But there's the rub...when I am looking for that in this world, in friends, family, experiences, possessions, the weather!, I realize I have my eyes on the wrong source for peace. Jesus said "I am leaving you a gift-peace of mind and heart. And this peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27 He said again "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33
So I do take heart-Christ gave me His promise for peace, peace in Him and that He has ovecome the world. And He had to love me to do all that, plus way more.
Thank you Lord.
Hope you have an excellent day and thanks for stopping by!
Kathy

What I used:
American Crafts ala Carte fondu pp (old paper, I know!)
Georgia Pacific white card stock
Memento Tuxedo black ink
Versamagic Chalk ink pink petunia, aquatic splash, oasis green
Koh i noor, Crayola colored pencils
Ranger diamond stickles
Studio G Ditto bring on the cake stamp set
InkadinkaClings Cupcakes stamp set
WRMemoryKeepers corner chomper

Hello!

2011-06-30T21:44:00.002-05:00

I have been cruising blogs and websites and have seen lots of cards with this shape lately. Well it may vary slightly because I only have two sets of Spellbinders dies (circles and scalloped ovals) would you believe?!! But I do have a Silhouette and usually I can find a design that is a close match...Oh do I love my Silhouette!! Anyway, as for the design of the card itself, I would like to say I made it for this or that challenge but I didn't or that it's a specific sketch, but it isn't (at least none that I know of) I just made it to suit my fancy and I do fancy this one! I have to admit this card is a "Heinz 57" because I didn't stick to one company of products, but Hey, it's pretty cute (well maybe I'm prejudiced since it's my "baby") LOL!

Okay enough babbling-it's been a rather quiet and uninteresting week in my neck of the woods-not that I'm looking for drama-it's just the summer and it's getting too hot to be outside for long. Oh and has the humidity returned to the south! I'm happy about that. And it's Fourth of July weekend...hmmm, I probably should have made a patriotic card! Well maybe tomorrow...

Thanks for stopping by and hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth!

blessings,

Kathy

What I used:

Embossed paper-I think I bought it at Recollections when I lived in Phoenix...don't remember

Ivory cardstock- SU

Distress inks- tumbled glass, shabby shutters, wild honey, brushed corduroy

Ribbon-one of my absolute favorites! It came in a kit from a kit club I was in so have no idea:(

Hero Arts-thanks definition

Papertrey ink sentiment-Note of thanks from Wildflower Garden

Yellow button-off some old blouse

Sparkly button-Doodlebug

Ivory button-Daisy D's

Silhouette shape-nesting artisan frames

foam tape

PTI blog hop time!

2011-06-25T15:04:00.000-05:00

Nichole chose this Pinterest picture to inspire us to create something for the PTI blog hop today. I had so much fun planning my card but wouldn't you know in the end I did something totally different than what I intended! Here it is:

Ack! My photography skills are sooo poor when it comes to the web! Oh well moving right along...I used PTI's Wildflower Garden (love that set!) The butterfly is a punch I won from McGill. Turned out pretty cute! Simple and clean.

Here's the complete list:

PTI cardstock spring moss (card base), berry sorbet, white

Versamagic chalk ink

Memento dye ink

Making Memories pop dots

Happy Blog Hopping and thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

Just playin...

2011-06-17T17:26:00.001-05:00

So today has been a play day...so much so that I've forgotten my laundry in the dryer and had to set it to dewrinkle 3 times already!! I can't say I've made tons, mostly experimented with new inks and stamps. I was inspired by a card on pg. 32 of Paper Craft's Card Creations magazine Volume 9. Their example was all SU, which I don't have so I improvised, of course. I love how it turned out, still not able to make these pictures come out the way they appear on my monitor. Hope it's not too hard on your eyes!

Thanks for stopping by. Hope you have a most blessed weekend!

Kathy

What I used:

Hero Arts Many Dots stamps

Hero Arts Live & Laugh (sentiment)

Hampton Art Circle Birds stamps

PTI cardstock white and kraft

American Crafts buttons

Colorbox chalk ink

Colorbox pigment ink

VersaMagic chalk ink

Scotch foam tape

Sorry for not posting..

2011-06-14T12:45:00.000-05:00

I'm saying sorry it's blurry right now. I scanned this photo and I've learned through others that scanners don't like lumpy things even if it's minute-the brads, in this case! I made this card for the layers of ink challenge on the 2peas stamping board (we were to use ink to stamp and then make a shadow) but getting to post this has been the biggest headache of all! My computer crashed yet again on Sunday so Sunday and Monday were spent restoring it!! I had one antivirus product that was touted as the best for 2011 and I can say unhappily it did nothing for me...I've switched for now even though I still have over two months left on my other subscription. Needless to say I am saving my money for a Mac...wish I could go buy one now, but until then I'm not venturing out much in cyberspace and definitely not opening any email attachments from anyone no matter how well I know them!

Okay on to better things...we had a blast at Faith's second birthday party even if it was extremely noisy (Chuck E Cheese noisy!) but she was having so much fun-I'm glad we made the drive in!

The birthday girl trying to blow out her candles. Faith was in party heaven and loved Chuck E. Cheese when he arrived on the scene. She hugged him and danced with him and wanted him to sit with her at her table. How fun to watch her excitement! We are so very blessed to be her grandparents. I'm so glad this happiness preceded my computer crashing. You may not think it's a big deal but when you store all your photos on it, all your creations are stored on it as well and all the time it takes to get that all back (thank you Carbonite!) it's a big deal!

But it's over and I'm back to posting once again. Yay!

Here is the list of what I used on my card:

Joann's studio 112 mini clear stamp (courtesy of my friend, Pam)

Technique Tuesday Old World squares stamps

Fancy Pants stamp

Hero Arts Music background stamp

Colorbox black pigment ink pad

Versacolor Bark pigment ink pad

Versamark watermark ink pad

Ranger gold embossing powder

Memories brads

Echo Park For the Record patterned paper

PTI Kraft card stock

American Crafts black card stock

I just have to say you mean so much to me and I feel so blessed that you take the time to stop by and read my blog or see what I've created. I especially love the comments. I know I'm no super talent but I do enjoy that the Lord has given me time and supplies to honor Him with my crafting.

blessings to you all,

Kathy

A new layout

2011-06-07T16:53:00.000-05:00

One day I hope to find some pointers on taking and posting pictures on this blog...til then I guess you have to suffer with my funky looking picture posts. LOl! My goal while I was in Houston scrapping with my best friend and scrapping buddy, was to get the April 2009 trip my mom and I took, finished!! Well it almost happened...this was a layout I started there but didn't finish until today. One more layout and that trip will be complete...I admit I take a lot of photos-I just can't do the one picture thing. We went to Desert Botanical Gardens (one of my favorite Phoenix places) and toured the butterfly pavillion. Mom didn't want to go because she'd been once before and there were no butterflies! But I convinced her and she was greatly rewarded by a butterfly landing on her shoulder. Pretty cool. This layout was inspired by a two page layout on the sketch support website. I do think it turned out well...and you can see I am using that lovely Scrap n Easel I won. It really is an amazing tool-if you're thinking about getting one, I highly recommend it.
That's all for now...thanks for stopping by. I love reading your comments!
blessings,
Kathy

Sweet husband of mine

2011-06-06T08:17:00.001-05:00

My sweet husband had this bouquet waiting for me when I returned home after two weeks in Houston.
Really sweet!

So this is the card I made for him. Not only did he have flowers waiting for me, but the house was cleaned and vacuumed, the bed was made (something I do every single morning...him...not so much!) the dishes were done, the kitchen was clean and he had even given the dog a bath!!! Yes, I am very blessed to call him my husband.
Who knew almost 32 years ago that we would end up still together? A chance date (I'd actually broken a date with another guy to go out with him!...and would you believe I got caught?!!) Yep, true story.

And to think I might have missed it all if I had not listened to the Lord calling me back to Himself all those years ago when I was wandering down my own path. I'm so glad I gave my life back to Him, so glad I accepted His love and forgiveness and began my life over again. I used to think it was too late. I used to think I had to get "cleaned up" for the Lord. I didn't realize He is the One who does the "cleaning up", I just have to be willing. That's it. That's all!
Praising my Lord for this day.
Hope yours is wonderful!
Thanks for stopping by,
Kathy

New!!

2011-06-04T16:56:00.000-05:00

Unreal! I am blessed to overflowing! The first two photos are of the Scrap n Easel I won from Just Jingle's blog and the third photo is stamps, Pam ( a girl who participated in OWH's blog hop) sent to me from a comment I made. Just so cool! You have to know I'm not a winner type of person, not in my genes. LOL! But last week and the week before, I was a winner. The most precious thing was the day I won the Scrap N Easel was the day after my dd lost her baby so what sweetness in the midst of such pain. While nothing will erase the heartache, these little things bring big joy!
God is so very, very good to me. He even cares about my little scrapping hobby. There are so many moments when I feel so unworthy of being called His child-I know there is not a thing I could ever do to earn salvation, it's His free gift. I'm just a housewife with three grown kids, one grandkid, an amazing husband who indulges me in this craft I love, with a little dog and a humble home. I don't do great things, yet the Lord blesses me by allowing me to spend time with a friend in need, holding her hand, reading scripture and praying with her, as well as giving me time to serve my daughter and hold her close as her heart breaks. Who am I that He would give me that privilege? Who am I that He would choose to bless so?

On a happier note!

2011-06-03T19:41:00.004-05:00

Oh last week was so hard. My girl is on the mend and in the midst of it all she asked me to make Faith's birthday invitations and I was so happy to do it-one of the fun blessings of being a Grammie!! The colors are based on the paper plates and napkins I found on clearance at Target to use for Faith's 2nd birthday. I love how this evolved from a simple postcard, that we originally thought would work, to this! Only thing...I totally forgot to take a picture of the inside.
Holly found the quote online, cute huh? We made orange butterflies on picks as cupcake toppers...I forgot to take pictures of that too!

What I used:
Papertreyink white cardstock
Paper Studio- pink polkadot pp
Mod-orange swirl pp
American Crafts-green cardstock
Bazzill Smoothies-pink cardstock
Silhouette digital designs-butterfly, clouds, sun and grass
We R Memory Keepers corner chomper (love, love this tool!)
Memories dimensional adhesive
Parade- computer font

Hope everyone has a blessed and relaxing weekend...I'm hanging out in my scrap room...after I give my dog a haircut!
Thanks for stopping by!
Kathy

P.S. For the life of me I cannot figure out why my pictures look so clear on my laptop, even in my photo editing software yet when I post them here they look so blurry!!! What is up with that?

Sad and heavy heart

2011-05-25T12:04:00.000-05:00

I am grieving so for my daughter right now. She went to the OBGYN for her reg. monthly check (she's in her second trimester with baby #2) and they discovered the baby has no heartbeat. A perfectly formed little baby but no heartbeat. Oh how this hurts. I am trusting the Lord knows all the reasons why. He is sovereign and loves us with a love we do not fully comprehend. And I praise Him for seeing a future we cannot see, yet this is so very hard. Please pray.

Still out-of-town!

2011-05-23T12:31:00.001-05:00

I'm having so much fun, I just don't think I want to go home! I'm staying at my best friend's house (we've known each other for 22 years) scrapping, talking, shopping and staying up waay too late. When I lived here we would get together every friday night alternating homes each week and crop til midnight which was much easier than attending crops because at crops we never got anything done! (Can anyone relate?!) But since I moved away 8 years ago we've had to make minor adjustments to that every friday night thing. So I come for a week to her house or she comes for a week to mine. We don't scrap near as often but we do get lots done when we are together. I'm so very blessed and thankful to have such a sweet, godly sister in the Lord who loves to scrap. I made this card for her (she loves anything whimsical) I think this fits her to a T.

Happy Monday Y'all!

Thanks for stopping by,

Kathy

What I used:

PTI, Bazzill cardstock

Pink Paislee Hometown Summer collection pp

Silhouette digital designs-scalloped border, sun

clouds

Verve sentiment

pop dots

Accidental beauty!

2011-05-17T07:17:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a lost day because I had to do some un-fun, but regular required medical testing that leaves me pretty sleepy for the rest of the day...I was not looking forward to it at all. I was actually feeling pretty down and told the Lord (like he didn't already know!) and this picture was His response. I can say He really knows me. Nothing perks me up like a flowering tree or shrub. I'm no green thumb so the real miracle here is that this is just some rogue tree that has decided to sprout at the corner of our front yard. What's even more wonderful is that this is one of my most favorite of all trees because my paternal grandmother had a big beautiful Mimosa tree in her yard under which my sister and I would play for hours. My grandmother has been gone for several years but she is the grandmother who taught me all things crafty and lately I've been reminded of her influence in my life. So what a fitting surprise the Lord should bless me with but this rogue Mimosa tree blooming gloriously! Thank you Father.

Thanks for letting me share my heart. I'll be back later with a new creation.

blessings,

Kathy

Note cards inspired by Maile

2011-05-14T19:23:00.001-05:00

I spent most of the morning purging my stash and advertising on freecycle...I know I could have tried to sell it all but I have tried through our lss yard sale, my own garage sales and I just didn't want to take the time today. I had so many responses it wasn't funny and it's gone! Yay! I do this every couple of years but this year I purged things I've held onto since 2002! Things I know I won't use ever! Like DCWV glitter stacks...I'm not into that much glitter and it won't go through my Silhouette, even upside down.

So in the spirit of purging and simplifying, I made some note cards inspired by Maile. Scroll down to the second picture in her post on her note cards. Now I know mine don't look anything like hers, but what I like is her clean and simple, yet beautiful cards. All the while I was purging and creating I had my curtains thrown back to enjoy the beautiful late spring day. All day it was just gorgeous, low humidity, clear blue skies, sunshine and quite breezy (don't know where all this wind is coming from, but we've had it for almost 2 months!) I just hope Jesus comes back on a day like this! Truly would be awesome!

I hope everyone is having a great weekend being crafty.

Blessings and thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

What I used:

Georgia Pacific Cardstock

Michael's gingham ribbon

Studio G stamp

Fancy Pants stamp

PTI stamp-sentiment

Palette ink pad

Brilliance ink pad

Autumn leaves ink pad

Pop Dots

Totally inspired!

2011-05-13T14:13:00.001-05:00

I can't believe all the problems Blogger had! Lost everyone's most recent posts and comments...but they're up and running now (yay!) and I'm just going to act like I didn't lose all of yesterday's work.
So I was visiting Hero Arts blog and saw a quick snap shot of some cards Godelieve made, oh they were so cute and doable! I immediately got to work making some just like them...well not just like but almost! Her coloring was much more vibrant, but I love the idea of everything being black and white except one flower. What do you think? These along with many of my recently made cards are going to Operation Write Home-hope to make it to the post office today!

On another note we finally have grass again in our yard. Come see. Isn't it beautiful? Something killed our grass last year so we spent most of the summer and all of the winter and early spring without grass...looks so luscious I want to go have a picnic on it. This shot was taken yesterday morning not too long after sunrise-I love how the sun causes the trees to cast their morning shadows on our lawn. I'm telling you God is so good to think of making grass-so sweet smellling when it's freshly cut, so inviting when it's all green and pretty, and so soft to walk on! Thank you Lord:)
Ok, I'm off to the post office and then hopefully I will get to create some more!
Blessings and thanks for stopping by!
Kathy

Second post for today

2011-05-07T20:34:00.001-05:00

In the spirit of National Scrapbook Day I spent most of the day creating. This was the last card I made and I love it. I've had these coasters for a while and meant to use them but just wasn't inspired until I got this lovely Hero Arts Bird Collage stamp. Love, love this stamp! So I got busy using my distress inks, stickles and a couple other Hero Arts stamps. I tried several kinds of patterned paper but realized they just fought with the stamp and I wanted the focus on the stamp not the paper. My only complaint is that this type of creating doesn't happen to me very often.

Hope you enjoy it! Thanks for stopping by.

Blessings,

Kathy

What I used:

Ranger Distress Inks

Palette hyrid ink

Colorbox Chalk ink

Ranger Stickles

Bazzill dotted cardstock

PTI cardstock

Hero Arts Bird collage stamp

Hero Arts Thank you definition stamp

Hero Arts sentiment stamp

PTI coaster

Scotch dimensional foam tape

New card to share

2011-05-07T13:47:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow my husband and I will drive to Houston to meet up with our kids and grandkid to celebrate Mother's day. My son is going to grill his famous bacon wrapped shrimp which we will thoroughly enjoy along with steaks, salads and dessert. My dd#1 is either going to get Crave cupcakes (Yum!) or she is making red velvet cake balls (double yum!) I can't wait! Although this body does not need one single extra calorie (keeping the weight off in these later years is really hard - I have not succeeded at it yet!) I will definitely enjoy the meal and the fellowship! This is the second year we will celebrate Mother's day with dd#2 also being a mom, so I made a Mother's day card in honor of her. How cool that we get to share this day with our grown kids not just as our children but as parents as well. Love it!

I can't help but give thanks to my sweet precious Lord for blessing me in ways I never imagined by being a mom. I just never thought I would have kids. I didn't babysit very often as a teen, was never really drawn to kids, never daydreamed about marriage and family. But God is a God of miracles and He just changed my heart after I met my husband. I am still amazed that He entrusted me with 3 wonderful children!

Hope all who are mothers are enjoying the weekend-not only is it Mother's day tomorrow but today is NSD!!! Hope you're getting to be crafty.

Many blessings and thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

What I used:

Georgia Pacific card stock

Pink Paislee patterned paper

Hero Arts stamp

Hero Arts digital die cut

Crayola colored pencils

Ranger Stickles glitter glue

Kaiser kraft gems

Verve stamp-sentiment

Cuttlebug embossing folder

Colorbox pigment ink

Palette hybrid ink

Corner Chomper corner rounder

Scotch foam dimensional tape

Just a quick post to show you what was in my back yard this a.m.

2011-05-06T09:23:00.001-05:00

These are not very clear pictures because it was actually just barely dawn and I didn't have my flash on because I didn't want to scare these guys away! (No flash equals blurry since the shutter has to stay open longer to catch the available light) The little oppossum I caught a glimpse of a couple of weeks ago when he was much smaller (though he isn't much bigger than a 6 week old kitten right now!). I think he is abandoned since there is a pretty heavily traveled road outside our fence and I have not seen an adult oppossum around. I'm thinking his mama might have met her fate with a vehicle:( He is so very cute and was nonplussed with me only feet from him. He was foraging away and quite content with the delectables found in our yard, but soon he moved on and though I tried to follow him he traveled quickly disappearing almost instantly. I'm amazed he has survived with all the cats in our neighborhood. I would think they would like him as a tasty dinner! As soon as little oppossum left I turned around and found this moth fluttering about on a tall stem of grass. It was very heavy with dew which led me to believe his wings were wet and wouldn't allow for flight. He never would settle down so I could get a proper picture. Even though these photos aren't great, it was such a delight to witness the Lord's marvelous works in these little creatures in the early morning cool and quiet. What a blessing! Thank you Lord!

I'll post later some of the things I've been making.

blessings,

thanks for stopping by!

Kathy
p.s.-did an internet search for the moth and discovered he/she is an IO Moth-here's a link to a much better picture IO Moth

I'm finished!

2011-05-04T10:37:00.002-05:00

I can't believe how long it took just to create 3 cards...well minus the ones that didn't work. I don't sketch before I start because I can't draw so most of my cards are prototypes (rough drafts really!) which is fine with me because usually I like my prototypes, but there are times when no amount of creativity will save them. LOL! Anyway, here's my cards for my mom (top) and grandmom. Now to rush out to the post office to mail them pronto!!

Have to add a p.s.-I was searching for just the right stamps online Sunday night to make my Mother's day cards and found a lovely set on the Verve website. Happily I placed my order and began to think up just how I'd use those stamps and decided to check what date they might arrive. I pulled up my calendar for May & sat in shock as I saw that Mother's day is this Sunday!!! What was I thinking?! Has anyone else done something like this? I just need to know I'm not the only one.

What I used:

top card-

PTI cardstock

Canson watercolor paper

Ranger Distress inks

Ranger Perfect Pearls

Ranger Perfect Medium

Hero Arts Stamps-flower

Studio G stamp-dragon fly

Limited Edition stamp-definition

Doodlebug stamp-love u

Michael's sheer ribbon (my favorite!)

Colorbox Chalk Ink

Cuttlebug Embossing folder

Quickutz label die

Tim Holtz safety pin

Pop dots

bottom card:

Georgia Pacific cardstock

Shimmer cardstock-?

Wplus9 Stamp-flowers

Jolee's gems

Versamagic Chalk ink

Michael's sheer ribbon

Gigi font-happy mother's day

Pop dots

Thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

May Card Chain Challenge

2011-05-03T16:18:00.003-05:00

I read about the card chain challenge on the Lily pad blog and decided to play along. This is my entry for the challenge-there are 3 different criteria, one of which is a Mother's day theme. I was making Mother's day cards anyway so this challenge worked out great! Head over to their blog and sign up!
I'll be back later to post the cards I'm making for my mom and grandmother-better get them finished:)
Thanks for stopping by and thank you for your encouraging comments.
Kathy
I am not sure what I'm doing wrong but I cannot get my photos to not be blurry!
What I used:
PTI, Bazzill card stock
Studio G i-cling Floral Damask
Unity stamp sentiment
PTI Impression Plate
Michael's Sheer Ribbon
Ranger Stickles
Kaiser kraft pearl
Quickutz label
Colorbox silver ink
Versamagic chalk ink
Pop Dots

Back to reality...

2011-04-30T20:54:00.003-05:00

Put Mom on the plane this morning headed back to Phoenix. A melancholy feeling settled over me for a while today. You know how bare your house feels after you've taken down all the Christmas decorations and put away the tree? That's how I feel when my family leaves...the house seems bare. I thought I was going to get in my scrap room and churn out the creativity but...I was lucky to get one card made. Oh I take that back, I made 3 cards-but only one was postworthy. LOL!

I won a dimensional butterfly punch (yippee!) on the McGill blog and it arrived at the same time my mom did so I didn't really get a chance to play with it until today. It's a big punch with a couple of options for wing design and size...really a perfect punch! So I pulled out some scraps of paper I tend to hoard (Scenic Route) and came up with this card. I really like how it turned out.

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend!

Blessings and thanks for stopping by:)

Kathy
Sorry for the blurry photo

What I used:
McGill Dimensional Butterfly punch
Scenic Route patterned paper
Bazzill cardstock
Hampton Arts sentiment

What I've been doing...(warning-picture heavy)

2011-04-24T17:25:00.000-05:00

First I have to say "Happy Easter" y'all! Praise the Lord! He is Risen! He is risen, indeed! I have not had a moment to do anything scrappy beyond checking out some of my favorite blogs and leaving a comment or two...I'm feeling the need to do some scrapping! Hmmm..could it be all the photos?! My mom is here visiting for two weeks and since her visit fell during the Easter holiday our kids came to see their grandmom and celebrate Easter with us. Our second dd came on Thursday bringing our cute granddaughter, Faith and from the time they hit the door it's been non-stop! That's life with a 2 yr. old:) We went to the waterpark on Thursday. Friday, our son-in-law arrived as well as our first-born dd and her boyfriend and we all played Wii bowling (well minus Faith) she ran around us with one of the dead remotes pointing it at the tv thinking she was playing along. Saturday we went to our church's Easter Fun day where they had set up a ton of those jumping tents, lots of games and lots of candy and ended the festivities with an egg hunt. And if that were not enough we went back to the waterpark in the afternoon! Saturday evening our son arrived, we had an awesome backyard barbecue and ended the evening watching a movie. I was so happy to sit down! Sunday we attended Easter services at church, came home ate lunch, had another egg hunt for Faith, and then everyone left!
Am I ever tired!!! But it was so much fun and such a wonderful blessing to have my mom and our kids and grandchild here.
This morning's service was so very good. Our pastor really spoke from his heart about how he yearns and longs for those who don't know the Lord to come to Him. Time is growing short and we have no control over what happens to us. We may say "yeah, I'll do that later" and then end up losing our life through some sort of tragedy. And it happens every day-the news channels and newspapers prove that don't they? I feel the same way as our pastor-I long for you and those I meet to come to know Jesus Christ.
Praying blessings for you,
Kathy

Remembering

2011-04-14T15:26:00.004-05:00

I sometimes think I have too much product! Not nearly what the pros have but I forget to use things. I get on a kick and seem to want to do only that. Today I was inspired by so many cards I've seen lately that have used distress inks. So I pulled mine out along with some of the many Studio G stamps I have that have not seen ink. Ooh, there's a confession for ya. For some reason I just had to have these cute little gems but then they got put away and didn't really see the light of day til just recently! Anyone know what I'm talking about? Yes, you know you do! I was also inspired looking out my window while I was having my quiet time with the Lord. I love God's handiwork! I love the trees and flowers everywhere as well as the birds, squirrels, dragon flies, butterflies and the occasional turtle that frequent our back yard. I really am Grateful Forever for these wonderful blessings from the Lord and even more so by the gift of eternal life through His Son Jesus Christ.

What about you? Where do you stand with Jesus? What do you think about Him? I know for sure He loves you. I know that sounds like some really Christiany thing to say but it is true nonetheless.

Praying blessing for your day!

Thanks for stopping by,

Kathy

P.S.-click on the picture to see a larger version-if I make it larger in my post it won't fit in the designated space.

what I used:

Bazzill card stock

Studio G stamps

Ranger Distress Inks

Glimmer Mist- it doesn't show up but it's there!

Kaiser Kraft pearls

EK Success border punch

sewing machine

Hero Arts digital cut files!

2011-04-11T15:12:00.000-05:00

When Hero Arts announced that they would be making digital cut files for digital cutters available for some of their more popular stamps I was ecstatic! I don't have the budget for purchasing stamps and dies that go with and I am absolutely no good at cutting stamped images out by hand. I would never make it as an SU rep! I haven't met one who couldn't cut images like she was born to do it...must be in the DNA. Whatever it is I don't possess it. LOL!
On the day these cut files were first made available I was up at, like 4:30 a.m. (no, I'm not that enthusiastic, I was feeling sick) so because I couldn't lie down I got on my computer and purchased 3 of the cut files. One was for Antique Engravings-Ooh I almost forgot I was sick I was so eager to cut them out but... they didn't work. Some glitch caused my Silhouette to cut a diagonal line right through the entire sheet of images. What?!!! I waited for a reasonable hour...maybe 6 a.m.-no I'm joking! it was 9 or 10 a.m. and called Hero Arts but no one seemed to know what to do. Then I emailed them and in very short time Shari Carroll (yes, THE Shari Carroll from Hero Arts who always makes such amazing things!) emailed me with a new fixed file! I always knew I loved Hero Arts.
If you're thinking about purchasing some of these files for your digital cutter, stop thinking and go buy them! Here's the link HA digital cut files and no I don't work for them and I'm not getting anything for plugging them. I'm just a happy, satisfied customer.:)
Blessings and thanks for stopping by!
Kathy

Card ingredients:
Bazzill dot and cardstock
Hero Arts Antique Engravings stamp
Hero Arts Blooming Meadow stamp
Hero Arts Envelope stamp
Hero Arts Antique Engravings digital cut files-
cut with Silhouette
Hero Arts sentiment
Silhouette digital image label
Colorbox Chalk ink
Kaiser Kraft pearls

Sick again!

2011-04-11T09:58:00.000-05:00

This time of year is always hard for me between allergies and vertigo (imagine the room spinning constantly) I've been feeling very bad! But today I'm feeling quite a bit better (at least where the vertigo is concerned) thank you Lord! Hoping to get to scrap something but in the meantime check out these great blogs-
papertreyink countdown to new release be sure to check the creative links as well-Nichole and her design team have some awesome creations to share!
Jill Foster - Oh this girl can color like no other! love her work
Joy - Another oh so crafty girlie. Her work just makes me smile!

Yummyness! Now how about this salad? I'm in the mood for something light and summery!

I'll return later with a crafty card or layout!
blessings and thanks for stopping by,
Kathy

PTI embossing challenge

2011-04-04T16:54:00.006-05:00

Dare I even post this? After the cards I've seen posted on the PTI linkz I'm not so sure mine can stand up to those gorgeous cards! We were to heat emboss something and you can barely tell but the one stem is heat embossed with clear embossing powder.This is my second card...my first one bombed...bad...Okay so not too shabby, for my second one but really simple...it seems that's all I'm capable of making. I'm okay with it til I see what others do. I had a hard time getting a good photo, too, since we are having some very stormy weather today!
Well I guess I'll post it over there, plain and simple has it's place too:)
Thanks for stopping by-I love your comments!
Kathy

PTI ingredient
Aqua mist, white cardstock
Simply Chartreuse polka dot satin ribbon
Mat stack 4 label die
Diamonds impression plate
Life stamp set

Ranger Distress inks:
shabby shutters
frayed burlap
Ranger clear embossing powder

Overflowing...

2011-04-03T16:32:00.002-05:00

Blessings! I made this card because it reminds me that God is "love always". He loves me! No matter what I face He is here with me.His arms are always open wide to receive me. He longs to bless me with Himself. No matter how I've blown it, He is the God of second chances (and third, fourths, etc.) Sometimes I can lose sight of that truth and become self-focused, dwelling on me, pitying myself, wishing I had things or friends or family close by, thinking God is holding out on me. But when I look at the cross, I am humbled, amazed and ashamed of my selfish thinking. How can I even think God is holding out on me when He gave up His only Son...for me?!! Oh I'm so glad He wanted me! He wants you too-believe it, it's true!

Happy, happy Sunday Y'all and thanks for stopping by!

Kathy

Card:

Bazzill, Worldwin colormates & AC cardstock

All My Memories patterned paper (flowers)

Cuttlebug Swiss dots embossing folder

Kaiser Kraft jewels

Papertreyink Fillable Frames stamp and die

Wplus9 sentiment and heart stamp

Colorbox Chalk Ink

Autumn Leaves ink

Silhouette rolled flower digital design

A new name in the neighborhood...

2011-04-01T07:45:00.000-05:00

I've been following the blog posts for Lily Pad and thought I'd share the news and the link-it's part of their contest..There’s a new challenge blog in town with articles, swaps, interviews, videos, challenges, great prizes and MORE! Check out Lily Pad Cards! [Link:
http://www.lilypad.inlinkz.com/

Go quickly and sign up!!!
Happy Friday,
Kathy

Hi, I 'm Kathy and I'm a messy scrapper!

2011-03-31T05:18:00.001-05:00

On Kristina Werner's blog she is calling for all messy scrappers to unite! I'm shocked! She always seemed so put-together...Well, let me tell you, just for the sake of her call I decided to "mess up" my desk so I could post to her blog and make her feel better because IRL I AM NOT MESSY! My place stays neat as a pin... all the time... and the minute I make something everything goes back in its place. I have a reputation to maintain, if not with blogland friends, then certainly with family and friends who come to my house! Just so you remember the pictures you are about to see have nothing to do with MY reality, folks...

Have you ever seen anything like this?! Actually, I had to force myself to get it to this condition! You see my drawers are all labeled, well most of them, and everything has a place.

Even my tools are neatly in place most of the time...I really had to think about what a messy desk looks like.

Okay, so by now you know the jig is up and this IS my reality! LOL! I would love to say I am just trying to make Kristina feel better but that would be in my "altered reality" you know, kinda like that t.v. commercial (I think it's for glad storage containers?) where a lady is dancing around her kitchen and fridge because all her food is stored and labeled so neatly with nary a stray crumb? Oh well...I have good intentions! And right now I'm about to go post my pictures to Kristina's blog and join the "messy scrappers". Hey if Kristina claims her spot in that group, then I'm in great company!!
My dh and I are off to Houston today to help our son move.
blessings and thanks for stopping by!
Kathy

New card

2011-03-30T15:29:00.003-05:00

Hello!
I saw Kristina's card here and just had to make something like it! Cute, easy card...well after two attempts it was easy?!! Ha! Nothing goes according to plan. I did not expect to run into not having colored card stock to match the stripes and my first stamped strips just did not live up to my expectations. Oh and did I even think about her cute punched circle right in the card? No! I don't even own a circle punch-I know! right?! (very crafter is supposed to have a circle punch or twenty) not to mention I don't own the stamps Kristina used. So I improvised. But isn't that what "inspired lifting" is? We see something we like and either we change it to suit the occasion we are making it for or we change it because we don't have the same supplies. Most of the time I don't have the same supplies. If I did I'd be a store owner!
Hope you're having a fabulous Wednesday-I'm off to start dinner and get ready for the ladies Beth Moore Bible study at church. We've only got one more week left and I will be sad for this study to end. I've learned so much about what it means to have a heart that seeks the Lord. "Search me O God and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you and lead me along the path of everlasting life."
Psalm 139:23-24
Blessings and thanks for stopping by! I truly appreciate your encouraging comments!
Kathy

PTI, Bazzill cardstock
KI Memories patterned paper
Hero Arts sentiment
Technique Tuesday Petal Pushers stamps
Versamark watermark ink
Colorbox Chalk ink
Spellbinders circle die
Silhouette digital butterfly image
Zig Pen

2 page layout-Yippee!

2011-03-26T13:52:00.005-05:00

Two years ago...gosh! it's been that long!! I flew out to Phoenix to visit my mom and we took a trip over to San Diego. What a fun trip that was! I'd been there several times before but this was just the best time ever. We were constantly oohing and aahing over the Lord's handiwork in the scenery surrounding us. I mean, all man can do is copy or imitate what God has created. The flowers and plants were so very vibrant! The views outside the museum of Natural History were spectacular. We stayed for five days and Balboa Park was the last stop on our list. I'm so glad we waited til the end of our trip because the sights around this park, the museums and outdoor gardens were just amazing. So, needless to say I have pages and pages from this trip and Yes! I'm scrapping all of it. It is slow going because for some reason I can think up a million cards to make but layouts are an arduous task for me. But this layout came to me so quickly I had to share it! Don't get me wrong, I love to scrap and reminisce over the sights I capture and I do love taking photos ( after all these years I'm still an amateur as I use automatic settings on my dslr most of the time). Yikes! I just said that out loud! It's a huge sin for a scrapper/paper crafter to admit so if you don't want to hear it, just plug your ears and say "la,la,la". Lol!
What I used:
American Crafts cs
Worldwin Colormates cs
My Mind's Eye pp
Penshurst computer font for the title
Times New Roman for journal box
Silhouette digital damask design

Thanks for stopping by. I truly appreciate the encouraging comments!

hope you're having a crafty weekend,

Kathy

Birthday time!

2011-03-25T14:58:00.000-05:00

"Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from Him." Psalm 127:3

Today my son, my youngest child, turns 27. What?... Are you sure about that... because I could swear I heard him yelling "mommy!" not two seconds ago. I know I saw him riding his bike, jumping over garbage cans in the driveway. It can't be that long ago...why he just asked me for the keys to the car last week...he can't be 27, he just graduated high school...What? He moved out? When? How long has it been? You say my little boy is all grown up? He's on his own?...where did the time go?....

I'm sure there are many of you out there who feel like I do-I can hear the echo of my children's voices in my mind just like it was yesterday.
I kept this card simple-my son is no muss, no fuss. I found the inspiration for this card in the May/June 2010 issue of Paper Crafts mag. pg. 39 and felt it was just right for my boy.
Happy Birthday Dear Son, you are truly a blessing and a delight!

Bazzill smooth- cardstock
Chatterbox- patterned paper
PTI cardstock-star base and sentiment strip
Silhouette digital design- star
Fairly OddFont-computer font
Tim Holtz tiny attacher-staple

A new addition coming soon!

2011-03-24T14:55:00.004-05:00

My 2nd born dd called me Tuesday with the news that their second baby is coming in late November! We are saying prayers of thanks to the Lord and that she has a healthy pregnancy. She's already thinking it might be a boy this time so Faith may be getting a brother. With that thought in mind I made a card, which was going to be just a "Congratulations you're expecting" kind of card, but I've been saving this Crate paper forever! Just what I do with paper I love...I'm sure no one can relate! Right?! So I've made the welcome baby card a little early...okay a lot early but it will keep and these colors can go either way, in case she has another girl.
I used Mojo Monday's weekly sketch to design this card-well it's mostly like the challenge!
Ingredients:
Crate Paper Cowboy Collection PP
American Crafts card stock
Silhouette digital design-scallop circle
Spellbinders circle die
Papertreyink Ribbon
Studio G Elephant and "Welcome little one" stamps
EK Success large scallop punch
Tsukineko Versamagic Chalk Ink

Oh now I have to rush around to vacuum and clean up because Bible study is at our house tonight! Oh and I still have to go to the store for drinks and snacks! I know I should have done that first, but I couldn't wait to put this card together.
blessings and thanks for stopping by,
Kathy

Finally finished!!

2011-03-22T22:13:00.002-05:00

No it's not your eyesight!! This photo is slightly blurred...trying to go too fast taking pictures!! I almost didn't even try to post this because I'm losing brain cells. LOL. Night is not my best time for creating so I'm surprised I even finished this card at all. Well I started out with inspiration from Joy's card http://www.flickr.com/photos/tulip1312/5549347128/ but my card seemed to take on a life of it's own and yes, it's butterflies again! Our weather is warm, the azaleas are in bloom, my wisteria is full of blossoms and smells so sweet (see photo below taken in my back yard)

Spring has sprung as the saying goes and butterflies always speak to me of Spring. Now that reminds me of a wonderful verse "He has made everything beautiful in its time." Ecclesiastes 3:11
And with that I say "good night"
blessings and thanks for stopping by,
Kathy

Absence makes the heart grow fonder?!

2011-03-22T09:01:00.002-05:00

LOL! I've been MIA for a few days as other things have taken a front seat to being creative...I still have lots to do today but hopefully will get to create this afternoon. In the meantime I'm showing
something I made a short time ago. I make cards for our Sunday School class at church as well as for Operation Write Home and this one was inspired by one of the entries on Splitcoaststampers gallery. I've got to learn how to take pictures for posting! Scanning them flattens out bows and blurs the popped up elements!
I am in love with these 6x6 paper pads!!! this one http://memoryboxco.com/product_detail.asp?id=10119 and this one http://memoryboxco.com/product_detail.asp?id=10120
and this one http://shop.heroarts.com/products/productdetail/part_number=PS636/1571.0.1.1 and this one http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/shop/crate-paper/109580-portrait-collection-6x6-paper-pad/?filters=_portrait_6x6_/kits&avad=26703_c17e5505
Okay enough drooling for right now!
On another note, I am so thankful for the people that are being found alive so many days after the disaster in Japan. I know there is still so much tragedy and hard, hard work ahead but how awesome of the Lord to give us hope in the midst of it. While I'm not living through an earthquake or tsunami, I have been in that place of needing, longing for hope in the midst of my own circumstances. I know the right answer is "seek the Lord" but sometimes pain can grip your heart so deeply it feels like there isn't any strength left to seek him. Anyone know what I mean?
Praise God for godly brothers and sisters who are diligent to go to Him on our behalf. I don't know what I'd do without these dear ones who can pray for me when my mind cannot form the words. We all have at least one faithful friend. Today is a good day to make a card and write them a note of thanks for their love and support.
blessings,
Kathy
p.s.- what a good excuse for purchasing some new paper pads like the ones I posted!

card ingredients-
American Crafts, Bazzill cardstock
Bo bunny- patterned paper
Spellbinders circle die
Silhouette digital cutter scallop circle design
Memento, Colorbox chalk ink
Studio G stamps-leaf and sentiment
American Crafts ribbon

A praiseworthy day!

2011-03-16T14:09:00.000-05:00

I got new Hero Arts stamps in the mail and had to use them...you know what I'm talking about! I've wanted the envelope pattern since it first came out but could never get it ordered before it was sold out! And I'm usually fast on the draw too...but finally I got it and it is as cool as I thought it would be! I have been loving the butterflies I've seen everyone use lately and to tell you the truth, I had a set of foam backed butterfly stamps that I gave away. I know! Right?! Dumb me didn't think I'd use them and they were a really awesome set I bought at Michael's eons ago... and it was my only set of butterfly stamps...what was I thinking? More like not thinking, eh?! But I bought the ever so lovely Antique Engravings along with Blooming Meadow (another one I've wanted for a while) and now you'll probably see more of these stamps in my projects than you ever wanted too! LOL. So this card is also on the Hero Arts flicker group where I entered it for their monthly contest. I hold no illusions that I'll win, it's just fun to enter!
Oh and I got the best news today...I had to have a biopsy done a couple of weeks ago and it came back negative!!!! Praising the Lord, yes I am!
The MRI results came in as well and they reveal what we pretty much thought...I have a broad L5 disc herniation that is pressing the S1 nerve. Painful! So my next stop is the neuro surgeon. Not sure if surgery is going to be the order, but we do have to discuss what I can and can't do. Right now, my house is crying Clean Me! I tried the other day thinking things were getting better and oh no, I put myself in more misery. Scrubbing the shower and bathroom floor in the master bedroom was probably not a good idea! But I cannot stand a dirty bathroom-just isn't cool...at all!
Well, I'd better stop this novel before I bore everyone completely. Just saying another prayer of thanks to my awesome God for sustaining me through these weeks of waiting for results. I'm so thankful, too, for my friends and family who lifted me up continually to our heavenly Father. I felt every one of those prayers.
Thanks for stopping by!
blessings,
Kathy

Card ingredients
Papertreyink Kraft cardstock
Georgia Pacific cardstock
SEI Oasis patterned paper
ColorBox Chalk Ink
Ranger Distress ink
KaiserKraft gems
Hero Arts S5507 Envelope Pattern Stamp
Hero Arts CL383 Antique Engravings stamps
Hero Arts CQ171 Blooming Meadow cling stamp

My second post for the day or night...

2011-03-14T23:28:00.000-05:00

I'm wide awake after helping my first born daughter through some hard life decisions. Mainly I listened and offered my advice. Poor baby-being parent is hard when we can't shield our kids from every hurt. I know that's not possible, nor is it healthy but I know most moms will be able to identify with what I'm saying.
Something else in on my heart and I just have to ask-is there anyone reading this blog who is not a believer in Jesus Christ? I can say with all my heart that accepting Him, believing in what He did on the cross for me was the best decision of my life! Don't think you need to be some sort of perfect person because Jesus came to save us. He does the clean up work in us!
The most familiar verse in the Bible says "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in Him will not die but will have eternal life" John 3:16 That means you will never die spiritually and you will go to heaven when you die physically. Don't wait-can you just imagine being the place of those people in Japan? Did they have any control over their lives? I wonder if any of them had the chance to hear the gospel and decide they'd do it another day? And then that terrible earthquake and tsunami hit.
I'm not here to judge anyone-I lived for 25 years thinking I did not need God. I look back over those years and see how His faithful hand preserved my life and I am so humbled and thankful that He chose to love me. He loves you too. Won't you come to Him and accept His free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ?

Tonight's the night...

2011-03-14T16:49:00.000-05:00

Papertreyink's March release party! Personally I love this part of their release, especially their contest question. The winner wins all of March's release!! Yes, I would love to win but I don't have any luck with contests...unless you count the year I went to Boone, North Carolina and ate at the local cafeteria. I was the 100th person in line, they were celebrating their anniversary and I was the lucky gal who won a free dinner!!! Hey, it was not your usual cafeteria food, it was all homecooked and the peach cobbler was divine!! But I'm off on a rabbit trail now...back to the PTI release. Oh if it will show up on my blog here is their Make it Monday video...Erin does this one and she makes everything look so easy.
Hope you can join the fun tonight!
blessings,
Kathy

It's been hard to take my eyes off the news...

2011-03-12T16:14:00.001-06:00

how about you?
I did manage to make a card or two today. I've been dealing with sciatica (for the first time in my life!) for the past month and just now feel like it might be easing up some. Funny thing, I can't remember doing anything especially strenuous that would have caused it, so when I couldn't get out of bed one morning I panicked!! I went straight to the emergency room thinking I had some terrible problem. I never thought I'd be thankful for having this excrutiating pain, but because of it another problem has been found-Thank you Lord.
Anyway, I was able to do some light housework today and I can sit now without hurting so all that to say...it feels good to be in my scraproom creating:)
I was inspired by Hero Arts Hostess Shari's layered background cards and tried my hand at it...what do you think?

Thanks for stopping by!
Blessings,
Kathy

Card ingredients:
Georgia Pacific, Bazzill, Colormates -cardstock
Canson-watercolor paper
Ranger Distress Inks-Spun Sugar, Tumbled Glass, Dusty Concord
Colorbox Chalk Ink-Chestnut Roan
SU-Whisper White ink
Ranger Perfect Pearls-Perfect Pearl powder
Ranger Stickles-Diamond
Ranger Liquid Pearls-White Opal
Ranger-White embossing powder
Hero Arts CG256-Small Striped Flower
Hero Arts CG222-Music Background
Hero Arts CL342- Happy anniversary sentiment
Michael's-Sheer White ribbon

I made another card!!

2011-03-11T10:27:00.000-06:00

It's pretty simple but I saw this color challenge
and decided to try it!
The blue in the challenge is actually lighter than what it is picturing right here...don't know why my colors always post darker. I used PTI Fillable Frames #5 stamp, sentiment and die, PTI white and orange zest cardstock AC raspberry cardstock, AC ribbon, DCWV blue cardstock, EK Success scallop punch.
Okay so an artist I am not, but this is a happy card!

On a more serious note, my heart and prayers go out to all those in Japan who are suffering such loss right now. I am praying Christ is being preached at this very moment and many are reaching out to cling to Him in their hour of need. There is no comfort like that of the Lord's.
blessings,
Kathy
.

A card to share

2011-03-04T16:25:00.000-06:00

Well the card I was trying to make is just not going to work out so I'm posting one I made a while back. I was using the same verse on the new card-I love this verse and one I've been praying since I've begun this new journey with my health. Something I will know more about after my MRI on Monday. Till then if you think of me, say a prayer. And thanks for stopping by!
blessings,
Kathy
card ingredients
Bo Bunny pp, Georgia Pacific, Colormates, DCWV cs, Provocraft Embossing folder, pearls-Kaiser Kraft,ribbon-came from a Scrap Goods kit, stamped verse-Verve, ink-Colorbox Chalk Ink

Health problems are no fun!

2011-03-04T06:35:00.000-06:00

So far, I don't think I 've enjoyed one single thing about my emerging health issues. I don't think that's the point of them or the reason God has allowed them at this time in my life. I do really believe He does allow us to go through hard times. He is All powerful, Almighty and could remove this trial from me quicker than I can pray to ask for it to be removed. But I believe He has higher purposes for what we face and I know He is with me, strengthening me because scripture says so. The LORD who created you says;"Do not be afraid for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name and you are MINE. When you go through deep waters and great trouble I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you." Isaiah 43:1-2 Don't miss that phrase "I have ransomed you. I have called you by name and you are mine! All who have placed their trust in Christ belong to the LORD! What wonderful comfort!
I said I have not enjoyed one single thing about my situation but I take that back; last night some close friends asked if they could pray for me, pray over me and I was completely overwhelmed by their desire to do that for me. Bill and I met at Don and Alley's house along with Jeff and Eva and I sat in the middle as they held my hand or touched my shoulder and lifted me up to our Heavenly Father. So precious of them, so very precious
I'll be back later today to post the card I'm making...it's just taking a little longer than I would like. Seems my brain thinks I'm pretty talented but my hands just don't know how to deal with that! LOL.
blessings to you today in the name of Jesus,
Kathy

My first blog hop participation & second post for today!

2011-02-25T16:03:00.000-06:00

Okay, I'm going to try this...not sayin it's going to work but here's my entry for the PTI Blog Hop for Scallops! I'm apologizing in advance for the picture because I've yet to figure out how to take really good photos of the things I make!

I used PTI Fillable Frames #5, GP white cs, My Mind's Eye PP, DCWV yellow cs, Cuttlebug circles embossing folder, Brilliance pearlescent orange and yellow ink, Offray ribbon, EK Success scallop punch

Thanks for looking!

How long has it been???

2011-02-25T13:55:00.000-06:00

Yeah, it seems I always have the best of intentions but once I run out of steam or inspiration...most everything gets set aside! From what I've read on other blogs I'm no exception. So what has been happening here? Lots of stuff and lots of nothing-does that make sense? Haha. Lots of life things and very little creative things-I think I've hit an all-time low when it comes to creativity. I realize I have to be very "up", in a good mood, feeling all is well in order to create. I'd never make it as a starving artist...or is that why they're called "starving artists"? Haha. At any rate I'm going to make another try at keeping a blog and hope I can keep up. I can't use "no time" as an excuse because I have plenty of that!
Well there's one little person (see photo) who has been taking the lion's share of my time, mentally more so than physically since they are a two hour drive from here. She's my second-born daughter's baby girl and our only grandchild and what a entertainment section she is! As well as quite busy, into everything, constantly moving...I didn't realize it would be so hard to keep up with grandkids!! what will I do when there are more of these little dynamos? I'm really not complaining, God has blessed us so wonderfully with her. I just need Him to bless me with the energy to keep up.
I did manage to create a few cards recently-nothing terribly talented but here they are...

So I've rambled enough for one post, especially my first one since 2008!
See ya:)

Musings from the "road"

2008-10-17T10:38:00.000-05:00

Robert Frost (1874–1963). Mountain Interval. 1920.

1. The Road Not Taken

TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;
5

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,
10

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.
15

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.
20

I've been traveling this "road" for some 29 years now and it is always full of surprise! The "road" I'm refering to is the "less-traveled" road mentioned by Frost in his poem, but more aptly applied to being a Christ-follower. So this will be about my musings from the road, how it has bent this way and that, what I've learned about myself, how I've grown closer to the Lord and how His precious, precious love just completely overwhelms me!
Welcome Dear Traveler!