Mother's Little Helper

The Cat's Pajamas ~ Blog Hop!

Hi, everyone!  I hope you're enjoying this New Release Blog Hop, brought to you by the swankiest company in all of stamping, The Cat's Pajamas.  If you're an obedient little hopper (and Santa's watching, you know...), then you should have started at newly-minted Dirty Girl JULIE'S blog then hopped along at a few lovely stops before coming my way via the always-awesome AMY.

You've seen some amazing projects so far, and there are many more to follow.  Rather than interrupt your flow with my chatter, I'm going to start 'showing' and stop 'telling'...

I made a cute little wreath ornament out of two of The Cat's Pajamas lovely new colors of SEAM BINDING (Cranberry & Evergreen) and used the new J*LLY H*LIDAY set with some of TCP's white shrink plastic to creat a mini-wreath tag. 

Here's how to make one for yourself.

First, get some floral wire, or other thin wire that you can easily bend:

Next, wrap the wire a few times around a cup or other round object to form the base of the wreath. (Mine is about 3" in diameter.)

Cut you seam binding using pinking shears.  I cut mine into lengths of three inches and double-tied them as I went. 

Start tying them around the base, and don't worry if it looks a little shabby before it starts getting fluffy. This step takes a little time, so be sure you put on a good movie like "The Muppets Christmas Carol" or "Elf" to help get the Christmas spirit flowing.

Before you know it, you'll have your own mini-wreath to hang from your tree and enjoy for years to come.

And here's a close-up of the tag. 

I used TCP's CIRCUS PANELS CutUps die to shape the tag, then stamped out the sentiment and colored it it with Copic markers.  Then, I heated the shrink paper with my heat gun and it shriveled and bent, then straightened out again at a wee one-inch long.  Magic!

Now it's time for you to make your way to one of our recent Swanky Stampers who is playing along with us for this release, the sensational STEPH HERBERT.  Merry hopping, peeps, and when you're finished, don't forget to head over to The Cat's Pajamas website where all the new release items are NOW on sale!

Kraftin' Kimmie Blog Hop!

Yay!  The September stamps from Kraftin' Kimmie are finally available to their adoring public!  REJOICE!

 

To celebrate the release, the Krafty Girls and Guests are having a blog hop to show you most of the new images in one fell swoop.  If you came here from the divine DONNA's blog, you're on the right track.  If not, you may want to start at the beginning, at the KKS Challenge blog.  I know you won't want to miss any stops along this Krafty Christmas Extravaganza!

Here's a rundown of all the new releases:

• Cheryl Alger's adorable O HOLY NIGHT set
• NATIVITY SENTIMENTS (which coordinate beautifully with Cheryl's new set)
• Six new HAPPY HOLIDAYS images from the Emilie's Etchings line
• Six gorgeous ANGELS from Annie Rodrigue
• CHRISTMAS INTERIOR SENTIMENTS to doll up the insides of your holiday greetings

I'm showing you one more INSTALLMENT (love that word) in my Christmas KKS banner.  Meet ELYSIA...

(Banner construction and materials details are available on this post.) Elysia  comes with a sentiment that says "Hark!" and a separate halo stamp.  I masked the top of Elysia's head then stamped the halo on top of her.

I'd love to stay and chatter, but I figure you're ready to see what's next.  If so, head on over to precious PAM'S blog, where I know she has something magnificent to share with you.  Don't forget to leave comments as you hop along today; two lucky commenters will win packages of stamps from the new release!

And, of course, you'll want to get ahead of the holidays and SHOP EARLY for the latest, greatest Christmas images at the KRAFTIN' KIMMIE STAMPS store!

Krafty Peeks, Day 3

Season's Greetings, friends!  Where I live, "Season's Greetings" is a salutation typically used during the period between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.  I wonder why that is?  It seems like a perfectly non-specific way to say "Hello," doesn't it?  It's not "Winter Greetings" or "Holiday Greetings."  Just generic ol' "Season's".  Habit and usage have shortened its lifespan.  Ponder that for a while, if you will.

 

Still, "Season's Greetings" is a perfectly valid opener for this particular blog post because this week's Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge is CHRISTMAS IN SEPTEMBER!  All the details on how to play are available on the KKS Challenge Blog, as are gorgeous samples from the Krafty Girls and Guests to get you in the spirit. 

But wait!  There's more!

It's also Krafty Peeks, Day 3, and today we're giving you glimpses of all the latest MOONLIGHT WHISPERS images!  Moonlight Whispers are illustrated by one of the best artists in the stamping industry, the incomparable ANNIE RODRIGUE.  This month, KKS has SIX heavenly new Moonlight Whispers images for you... ANNIE'S ANGELS! (Not to be confused with Charlie's Angels.  Don't even get me started on the fact that they're trying to remake that classic television program this fall.  It's a TRAVESTY!  I'd better stop right now before I go off on a full-blown tangent...)  Meet the operatic AURELIA:

(Banner construction and materials details are available on this post.)  Aurelia comes with a sentiment that says "Angels We Have Heard On High!" and a separate halo stamp.  I masked the top of Aurelia's head then stamped the halo on top of her.  Isn't she lovely?  Every single one of Annie's Angels are just as gorgeous. 

What's that?  You don't believe me?  The nerve!  Wait... do you hear that?  Listen closely...

 

THIS is what it sounds like when doves cry... you've wounded me deeply. (<-- Couldn't resist adding a Prince reference since I am, at this very moment, in Minneapolis and quite possibly hanging out with his Purple Highness.)

Don't take my unreliable word for how fabulous Annie's Angels are -- see 'em for yourself on the Krafty Challenge Blog.  There, you'll find sublime samples featuring all six of the Angels and direct links to all of the Krafty Girls' & Guests' blog posts.  You'll need those to make comments on all of the Peeking blogs to be eligible to win THREE of Annie's Angels (two people will each win three stamps).  And if you particpate in this week's challenge?  You could be eligible to win an AURELIA of your very own.  Git 'r' done!

 

See you underneath the Purple Rain!

Trick or Treat!

I finally finished my big banner PROJECT (that was for you, Michele) featuring all of the latest Moonlight Whispers and Emilie's Etchings images from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps' August release.  It was a labor of love, but I'm thrilled with the results and can't wait to show it off to you!

Here's a look at the full banner:

And here it is, in sections:

I showed you the Haunting Hilda and Happy Vampy panels in a previous post; the rest of the ghouls and goblins are now ready for their close-ups.  First up is the Potionmaster:

The Punkin Family...

And – possibly my favorite image from the release – Magical Mathilda...

For spacing purposes, I needed another image to work with.  Since we were a little short on testosterone, I invited Horace (a previously released image) to the party...

And here's Batty and Catty...

Belinda Bones...

Mr. Punkinhead...

Kreepy Kitty...

Moaning Moira...

and last, but not least, Frank n' Kitty...

Isn't that fun?  When I finally finished it, I announced to the family that they'd better like it, because it's going to be hanging in our living/family room for the next two months and five days!  Here's how it looks, inside (I took the previous photos outside to take advantage of the natural light.  You know why people always say that photos turn out better when the subjects are bathed in natural light?  Because it's true):

A few details, for those of you interested in that kind of stuff:

• The pennant triangles were created with The Cat's Pajamas' Pennant CutUps dies.
• For the letter panels, I made the letters using my Cricut and the Opposites Attract cartridge (STILL haven't figured out how to use it with Sure Cuts A Lot and download SVG files off the internet.  One of these days...).  The rosettes behind each letter were made using The Cat's Pajamas' Easy Rosette CutUps die.  I couldn't make a rosette without that die if my life depended on it!
• I hand-stitched around the edges of each scalloped pennant panel with embroidery floss, black on the image panels and orange on the letter panels.
• The buttons connecting the panels are actually a bunch of clear buttons I had in my stash.  I cut out 2 cm circles of the purple glitter paper with my Cricut using the George/Basic Shapes cartridge.  Then, I covered the circles with red-line sticky dots from Jody Morrow's Sticky Stuff Store, leaving the liners on top so I could punch holes in the centers with my Crop-A-Dile. Next, I removed the liner from the sticky dots and lined them up with the holes on the buttons.  Almost-instant glittery purple buttons!  (It was a lot easier than it sounds.)
• I connected the pennant panels by punching holes in the corners, threading them with a 5" length of orange & black gingham ribbon, threading the ends of the ribbon with a button, and tying the ribbon off.  Then, I trimmed the ends.
• The patterned paper are 8.5"x11" sheets from Hobby Lobby's Paper Studio line.  Can't remember their names and I don't have any left.  I used about three sheets of each pattern.
• The images were stamped on Copic X-Press Blending Card Stock (I get mine from Your Next Stamp; Karen has it on sale right now for 15% off if you've ever been interested in trying it.  Personally, I LOVE it) and then colored in with Copics.  I trimmed them out then popped them up on the panels with Jody's foam boosters.

That's all, folks! 

In other news, I'm headed out of town today for a fitness retreat (think hard work outs and healthy food, Biggest Loser style). If I learn anything brilliant, I'll definitely share when I get back home next week. I figure it'll be a variation of "Eat less, move more," but I'm hoping to come home with some insights that will help shore up my willpower and quell that little devil on shoulder that says "Come on, just one donut won't count... Now, how about something salty?  etc." Wish me luck!

 

Run Like a Girl!

Howdy, folks!  Well, I'm back from Jamaica, and let me tell you, there's no place like H-O-M-E!  Not that it isn't fun to get away with the extended family and take in the sunshine, but I have to confess, I spent a lot of time wishing I was at home in my stamp room, playing with all the new goodies being released this week by My Favorite Things!

At least I came home in time for MFT's Teaser Day 5 so I can show you a peek at the latest Who's That Girl? image, Let's Get Physical.  One of my New Year's Resolutions from last year was to run a 5-K, and I actually kept it.  Before last spring, I had never run a mile in my life.  I overcame my inertia thanks to a local Couch-to-5K program, and by the end of October, I was logging up to 11 miles on my long runs, had participated in three 5-Ks, and had even ran a 15-K.  Of course, that's when I suffered a stress fracture in my heel, so I've been cooling my jets ever since.  Still, as soon as I get released by my doctor, I'm lacing up my shoes and getting started again (though this time I'm going to take it a little easier).

In the meantime, the new WTG set inspired me to create my own race bib folio.  Check it out:

I've seen similarly sized bib folios (8"x8") sold on the web for around $40, but they aren't nearly this cute.  Wouldn't this be a great gift for the runner in your life?  All you need is some cardstock, this oh-so-appropriate image, and a couple of binder rings.  Of course, it wouldn't hurt to have the Stacking Stars Die-namic, in case you want to create a similar starry wreath around your focal image.

I just love this sentiment:

Here's a view of the interior:

I included a motivational quote on the backside:

The quote is actually from an MFT gardening set -- I think perhaps an exclusive mini set from one of the VIP kits?  (One more reason to become a VIP purchaser!) -- but it holds true for excercise, too.  I used the brand new Layered Label Die-Namic to frame the sentiment out.  

Today -- Jan. 4 -- is the big release day, you know, and here are all the details:

• The MFT release is on January 4th at 10 PM EST. You can attend the release party from 8-10 PM EST here in the forum for fun, games, and prizes! All the new sets and dies will be available on January 4th at 10 PM EST.
• The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win over $100 in stamp sets and play along with the DT for a month.
• If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to Kim's blog NOW! Be sure to leave comments as you go for a chance to win one of 2 stamp sets being given away daily, just for leaving a comment. :) Check Kim's blog every day for the winners.

I hope to "see" you at the release party tonight, and I'll be back later on today with more from this month's fabulous MFT release.  In the meantime, I'd better RUN! :)

Snow, Aliens, and Guinea Pigs

So, how's the weather where you live?  Here in Oklahoma, we've been covered in ice and the white stuff since last Thursday.  School was canceled on Friday and today, so the kids are happy.  Since we had plenty of warning the storm was coming, Carter and I stayed home instead of going to Lokomat therapy in OKC for our Thurs-Sat appointments (we'll just tack on a week at the end).  If one has to be stranded indoors, there's definitely no place like home.  Speaking of home, here's a pic of our abode as the snow fell on Friday afternoon:

Don't let that peaceful exterior fool you -- it's wild on the inside! 

One has to be pretty creative to keep an active five-year-old with cabin fever entertained.  At one point, I was in desperate need of about an hour of peace and quiet.  I made a deal with Carter: if he would sit and watch a particular DVD in its entirety, I would get one of Truman's old Halloween costumes out of the attic for him to wear.  (Carter LOVES hats, costumes, masks, and the like.  During the Christmas holidays, he wore a Santa hat every day, everywhere.  He still wears it around the house, and calls me out on my efforts to hide it away until next year.) 

As I read my book (current bookclub selection: People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks), Carter sat quietly and absorbed 'Lilo & Stitch' for the first time.  For the rest of the weekend, there was an alien in our midst:

I'm beginning to question the wisdom of what I've done, as I predict I will be zipping him into this outfit daily.  Potty breaks with Stitch are an adventure, to be sure.

I actually have a couple of things to show you, believe it or not!  It's been a long time since anything remotely artistic has appeared on this particular blog. *sigh!*  But with today being the first day of the OK legislative session, that may actually change.  I find that my best crafting months of the year come between February and May.  'When the cat's away...'

With my home makeover, I've been thinking a lot about I put on my walls.  Some of the artwork -- prints, paintings, photos, what have you -- that we've accumulated over the years is still to my liking, but a lot of it, I'm sort of 'eh...' about.  One of the benefits of getting older is discovering what you really respond to, and what's just taking up space.  Aside from items of sentimental value, I find that the things I'm keeping have the following in common: bright colors, bold graphics, pop art imagery, and patterns.  And as a stamper/papercrafter, I also love one-of-a-kind, handmade items.  So how to combine all of these?  That's been on my mind. 

I think I've come up with a few projects I want to make for my home, but first I wanted to create a couple of 'rough drafts.'  And what better way to do so than to kill multiple birds with the same stone: I'd get my rough drafts made, and I'd bestow said rough drafts on a couple of dear friends as their Christmas gifts!  Friends, guinea pigs -- these terms can be synonymous when done with love...

On November 1, I sent the following email to my oldest friends in 'Green Country' (<-- nickname for NE Oklahoma; we've lived here since September of 1996, and I met Kayla and Joan my first week on my new job, when their boss forced them to take me to lunch):

"Hey Girls --

I've come up with an idea for your Christmas presents, and I want to get started on them.  But first, I need to know the color scheme of either your office or your favorite room in your house.  And, if the room of your choosing doesn't have a firm color scheme in place, give me a rough idea of your favorite colors and/or color combos, up to five colors. (And don't just say 'green' -- tell me sea glass green, kelly green, forest green, mint green, etc.)  Just so you know, your gifts will have a similar concept but will not be identical.  Aren't you intrigued?!"

The responses?

Kayla: hunter green, sage green, oxblood, and cherrywood

Joan: butter, sage green, black, and crimson

I bought the shadowboxes and decided on the images shortly after receiving their replies.  You'll be happy to note, however, that I remained true to form and did not complete their gifts until the morning of our gift exchange, December 23rd.  Despite the frantic rush as the end, they ended up being my favorite gifts to give, and I was so excited to see the gals open them. 

I knew I wanted to keep the images simple and bold, and that I wanted to heat emboss them for added depth, texture, and gloss.  And also, just because I love heat embossing -- it's truly the technique that made me fall in love with stamping.  It still seems magical to me how that funky powder transforms into whatever you want it to with little more than a hair dryer and watermarking ink. 

Because Joan has Buddhist leanings and collects Buddhas, I selected a wonderful image from Inkadinkadoo's Asian Influences set:

Each image was heat embossed, trimmed, and then popped up on Jody's foam boosters.  It's hard to tell from this photo, but the images do appear to float (which seem awfully enlightened of them).  Here's a close up:

Joan's shadowbox measures 12" x 12".

Kayla's image was a little tougher to choose.  I wanted to keep with the spiritual theme, and Kayla is Baha'i.  (Yes, I do see the irony in having a Christmas gift exchange with a Buddhist and a Baha'i... however, Jesus is the kind of guy who'd extend an open invitation to his birthday party, don't you think?)  I don't know a tremendous amount about the Baha'i faith (other than that followers include Rainn Wilson -- Dwight from 'The Office' -- and England Dan and John Ford Coley -- singers of one of the greatest songs of all time, 'I'd Really Love to See You Tonight'), but I know from Kayla that one of their symbolic images is the camel.  Well.  Good camel images?  Very, very had to find. 

Instead, I went with tea.  Kayla has given me a couple of tea-themed gifts over the years, and we've had many great conversations over pots of Jasmine tea.  Further, it's been said that tea soothes the soul.  So can you see how I might jump from a camel to a teapot?  Of course, it makes perfect sense!  Additional bonus was the fact that I had yet to use my PTI Tea for Two set:

Kayla's shadowbox -- which measures 11" x 14" -- actually opens from a side clasp.  Side clasps are very handy when you're trying to make last minute adjustments.  Don't ask how I know that.

And here's a close-up of the images:

I know copper wasn't one of her chosen colors, but I couldn't resist adding a copper tea kettle.

They seemed very pleased and touched by their presents, which was great.  I'm not sure if they've actually hung them up yet; I hope I'm not that person who gives a gift that's dragged out of the closet and propped up five minutes before she's set to arrive...  But no pressure, girlies -- even if they're collecting dust in an attic, I enjoyed making them and did so while thinking happy thoughts of you. 

And now I have a better idea of what I want to make for my own house.  I'll give you a couple of hints:

1.  think BIGGER!

2.  think ELVIS!

Supplies used:Shadowboxes from Michael's

Stamps: PTI Tea for Two, Inkadinkadoo Asian Influences

Paper: Neenah Natural White, Neenah Ivory, SU Handsome Hunter, CM butter-y patterned paper from my stash

Ink: VersaMark

Accessories: Ranger Super Fine Detail Embossing Powder in Black, Ranger Embossing Antiquities embossing powder in Verdigris, Powder Keg Wine embossing powder, Powder Keg Not So Tarnished Copper embossing powder, Jody's Foam Boosters

For Rachel

First off, I want to thank all of you who took the time to comment on the video of Carter walking.  Each one felt like a warm, congratulatory hug and many of them brought tears to my eyes.  You made me all verklempt! I feel so fortunate to have such wonderfully supportive cyber friends. 

There are so many people who have contributed to help making Carter a proud pedestrian, but I'd have to say that a big ol' piece of the credit pie belongs to Carter's primary physical therapist (and my dear, dear friend), Rachel.  You've heard me mention her before -- she's come to stay with Carter and me each time we've taken our act on the road, whether to EuroPeds in Michigan, getting botox treatments in Kansas City, or as Carter was recovering from surgery in St. Louis at this time last year.  When you consider the fact that Rachel has worked with him for several hours a week since he was an infant, she has spent more time with Carter than any single person aside from Sean and myself.  We are so incredibly lucky to have such a devoted friend and caregiver.  When I count my blessings, she ranks right up there near the tippy-top.

After several years of trying, Rachel and her hubby are expecting their first baby -- a little girl to be named Abigail (in honor of Abigail Adams -- again, I ask you: is this a gal after my own heart or what?!  I swear, we could have been separated at birth but for the pesky fact that I'm a decade or so older than her...).  Yesterday was Rachel's baby shower.  I had volunteered to make the invitations, but Rachel said she'd prefer me to focus my energies on making something for Abigail's nursery.

Little did she know I already had something special in mind!  When I first saw the amazing Becca Feeken's 'Sesame Street' submission to last March's Dirty Dozen Gallery (you can see it here if you're an SCS Fan Club member), I fell head over heels in love.  The general idea, and those precious sentiments...

So, I ordered the Children Are set from Stamp Camp and bided my time until the right pregnant person combined with the right inspiration came along.  When Rachel gave me a piece of her main nursery fabric, I knew we had a winner.  Check it out -- not your traditional pink for Miss Abigail!  The photograph doesn't really do it justice; the background is actually a warm, chocolatey brown, not the black-ish color it appears in my pic.

Anyhoodle, here's what I came up with, using Becca's general idea, Rachel's fabric inspiration, and a few little tweaks of my own...

I based the color scheme on the main colors in the fabric and the knowledge that her furniture was white and the walls have been painted saffron.  I decided to keep it simple -- even leaving the buttery canvas background that came with the frame as is -- so that the sweet sentiments wouldn't have to fight for the spotlight.  I used PaperTrey Ink's Simple Alphabet for the letters on each sentiment blossom, and PTI's Fresh Alphabet to spell out Abigail's name at the bottom.  The sentiment panels were cut using a Spellbinder Nestabilities Blossom die, and each were backed by an SU! Scallop Circle punch.  All were mounted using plenty of Jody's Foam Boosters.  The display box is from Michael's.

And just to show you how much I love you dear readers, I'm going to type out the sentiments so you can see for yourselves exactly why I find them so charming.  But if I'm going to go to all of this effort, you've got to promise me one thing: let me know if they make you tear up as you read 'em.  I want to know that I'm not alone in my sappiness...

A: Children are Amazing.  Acknowledge them.

B: Children are Believable. Trust them.

C: Children are Childlike.  Allow them.

D: Children are Divine.  Honor them.

E:  Children are Energetic.  Nourish them.

F:  Children are Fallible.  Embrace them.

G: Children are Gifts.  Treasure them.

H:  Children are Here Now.  Be with them.

I:  Children are Innocent.  Delight with them.

J:  Children are Joyful.  Appreciate them.

K:  Children are Kindhearted.  Learn from them.

L:  Children are Lovable.  Cherish them.

M:  Children are Magical.  Fly with them.

N:  Children are Noble.  Esteem them.

O:  Children are Open Minded.  Respect them.

P:  Children are Precious.  Value them.

Q:  Children are Questioners.  Encourage them.

R:  Children are Resourceful.  Support them.

S:  Children are Spontaneous.  Enjoy them.

T:  Children are Talented.  Believe in them.

U:  Children are Unique.  Affirm them.

V:  Children are Vulnerable.  Protect them.

W:  Children are Whole.  Recognize them.

X:  Children are Xtra-Special.  Celebrate them.

Y:  Children are Yearning.  Notice them.

Z:  Children are Zany.  Laugh with them.

Now tell me those don't make you want to snuggle with your kiddos and whisper that they're the best things that ever happened to you.  You can't, can you?!  Marshmallows, unite!

Supplies used:

Stamps: Children Are by Stamp Camp; Simple Alphabet and Fresh Alphabet from PaperTrey Ink

Paper: So Saffron (SU!), Suede Brown Dark (Prism), Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Pure Poppy (PTI)Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa, Color Box Pigment Brush Pad in Cranberry

Accessories: Display box from Michaels, Blossom Nestabilities by Spellbinders, SU! Scallop Circle punch, Jody Morrow's Foam Boosters, circle punches

Today's the Day!

Yay!  All you TCP fans, celebrate!  It's release day at The Cat's Pajamas!  Two new sets -- Happy Camper, and Nightie (alphabet) -- as well as the cool new TCP Trims go on sale today.

I've got a couple of things to show you, highlighting each of these fun, swanky sets.  In the first, I did something I need to do more often: I scrapbooked, believe it or not!
This is an 8.5"x11" scrapbook page -- my favorite size -- and I've turned it horizontal.  See the title?  That's the Nightie set in action.  I love it because it's so fun & funky; definitely not one of those you have to line up just so for it to look good.  That makes using it sooo much easier, I know you'll agree. 

In addition to the TCP ribbons and buttons, I embellished the main photo (of my cute lil guy) with a stamped image of the skunk, log, and flower from the Happy Camper set, colored with Prismacolor pencils & odorless mineral spirits.  Alma has said she based the skunk with his little pompadour on Elvis, but I'm thinking he has kind of an Adam Lambert vibe, myself.

Next, I've done something else outside my normal comfort zone -- a 3-D item!  I know, first the backpack and now this!  But this is something truly unique -- I created the template and everything all by my lonesome! This is my version of the famous LL Bean Boat 'N' Tote bag, all packed up and campground-ready with S'mores fixin's:

Here are close-ups of the little bear with his toothpick signage, and of the S'more tag/marshmallow bag.

Yummy stuff, don't you agree?! 

Well, then run -- don't walk! -- to The Cat's Pajamas and get all the new goodies.  The Kitty Kat pack special gives you both stamp sets and all the new trims (1 yard each of 5 different ribbons, and a pillowbox full of coordinating buttons) for a bundled price of $36.40 -- that's 20% off the price if you were to buy them individually. 

Better get 'em fast -- they're getting gobbled up quicker than a campfire-toasted marshmallow!

Supplies used:

Stinker Scrapbook Page
Stamps: Nightie, Happy Camper (The Cat’s Pajamas)
Paper: Kraft (PTI), Solar White (Neenah), patterned paper
from Cosmo Cricket’s Mr. Campy line
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Accessories: buttons and ribbon from The Cat’s Pajamas’
Great Outdoors line, Prisma colored pencils, odorless
mineral spirits, foam mounting tape, sponges for edging,
embroidery thread

Bear-y Hungry Boat 'N' Tote Bag
Stamps: Nightie, Happy Camper (The Cat’s Pajamas)
Paper: Natural White (Neenah), tag by Creative Tags (Hobby Lobby),
patterned paper from Cosmo Cricket’s Mr. Campy line
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa
Accessories: buttons and ribbon from The Cat’s Pajamas’
Great Outdoors line, Copic Markers, foam mounting tape, sponges for edging, sewing machine, redline tape, toothpick

Nutty Backpack and Master Cleanse Day 5 review

(First, look to the the sidebar -- notice the updated TCP blinkie.  Cuteness!)

When I saw the new Happy Camper set by The Cat's Pajamas, the first thing I thought of making was a little backpack.  Here's what I put together:

Can you guess what's inside?

Boy, oh boy -- those Honey Roasted Cashews sure look yummy to someone who hasn't had a solid bite to eat in 132 hours or so...

Here's a close up of the flap:

 

And a view from behind:
Now, I'd like to claim that I'm the papercrafting genius that came up with this little number, but that wouldn't be the truth. (And you know I always, always tell you the truth.)  I actually first saw one of these on my friend Amber's blog.  She used a template (as did I) that you can find here on Tonya Klar's blog.  Since this was created, Splitcoast has also put a backpack tutorial in the SCS resources section; it's a slightly different version, but the same basic idea.  Moral of the story: if you want to make one of these for yourself, you've got options!

What's not optional?  The ADORABLE new Happy Camper set from The Cat's Pajamas!  Seriously, folk: you NEED these stamps.  I don't say that lightly.  I'm just telling you like it is.  Fortunately, this need can be fulfilled when these stamps are released this Friday, May 29th!  I hope you order yours before Alma runs out.  Otherwise?  You'll be in a world of hurt.  This isn't a hard sell -- just the truth as I know it to be. 

Master Cleanse Update
Well, yesterday was Day 5 of the Master Cleanse.  Really nothing terribly new and exciting.  But I will tell you this: if you watch TV, you are going to be bombarded -- BOMBARDED!-- with things that remind you of food and what you could be eating at any given moment.  I swear I'm beginning to think our entire lives are built around thinking about food, shopping for food, preparing food, eating food, and thinking about food some more.  Maybe I'm saying this as a cranky, hungry person, but that doesn't mean there isn't a little validity in my statement.

Wanna know what made my mouth water the most?  It wasn't any of the ads created to do just that; rather, I was watching an episode of Law & Order: SVU and two cops were sitting at a bar, waiting for a perp (like my authentic law enforcement lingo?) to show up at his usual table.  They'd both ordered burgers and drinks.  Their burgers were served, and they were big, greasy, old-fashioned cheeseburgers.  Watching that cop take a big bite of that beautiful burger, I had the most intense craving I've ever had in my life.  In that moment, I would have shaved my head for an order of Chili's Big Mouth Bites. 

Instead, my hubby and I went for a walk.  We haven't done that in a long, long time.  At one point, I grabbed his arm and gave him a snuggle, saying "Isn't this what romantic-couples-in-love do all the time?  After more than 20 years together, we've still got it..."  His response?  "You know, I'm sure this is true for me, too, but I think this cleanse is starting to make your breath bad." 

I'm going to remind him of that comment the next time he asks me to stay on the Cleanse two extra days, just to keep him company...

Supplies used:
Stamps: Happy Camper by TCP
Paper: Kraft (PTI), Natural White (Neenah), Cosmo Cricket Mr. Campy pp
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa
Accessories: TCP Buttons & Ribbon Trim (Great Outdoors), corner rounder, hole punch, Copic Markers, twine, red line tape, Velcro dots

Quick & Easy Teacher's Gifts

Today was Carter's last day of PDO/pre-school/whatever-you-want to call it, and after I dropped him off this morning, I thought, "Hmmm... this might be a good time to do something about teacher's gifts..."  His main teacher was covered, but there were still a few people I wanted acknowledge for making this such a great school year for my little guy.  Mind you, I still needed to shower and go to a meeting before picking him up, so my time?  It was a bit short.  Yes, yes, I know.  I should have thought of this before today.  I need to spend more time in quadrant 2 on Stephen Covey's chart where I'm supposed to be doing stuff like planning, preparation, and clarifying my values, and less time in the quadrants where I'm putting out fires and watching T.V.  I know all this.  But here's something you may not be aware of: I'm not a highly effective person!

So here are the quick and easy gifts I put together for the Director of the program and a couple of the aides...
Just your standard Hershey's Nuggets labeled a la PaperTrey.  The little box is from Taylored Expressions.  They are so cute and handy, and very reasonably priced.  I'm sure a lot of you might just make your own, but I really like having some of these on hand for days like today. 

And here's what they looked like all bundled up:
Pretty cute, don't you think?  And sooo easy!  And though I have a strict policy that readers of my blog are to learn absolutely nothing of value from my ramblings, I'm going to let the rules slide just this once and share a couple of things I figured out if you ever want to recreate this project:

1.  The boxes will hold 16 Nuggets each.  In order for them to fit properly, however, you need to alternate rows of the Nuggets being right side up and upside down.  If you look at the first picture closely, you'll see that the first and third rows actually have the flat, 'bottom' sides of the nuggets facing up; the second and fourth rows have the rounded, top side facing up.  Adhere your labels accordingly -- eight with the design on the rounded part of the Nugget, and eight with the design on the flat side of the Nugget.

2.  One bag will yield about 35 Nuggets, so you can fill two boxes and eat three pieces yourself for each bag of Nuggets.

3.  The tops of the boxes have an oval cut out of them.  I used some of the acetate I've saved from clear stamp packaging to make a fancier window.

In other news, have you been visiting the Verve Blog over the past couple of days?  If not, you're missing out!  Verve Visual is releasing FOUR -- yep! -- FOUR new sets on Friday that you are going to L-O-V-E!  Sneak Peeks started yesterday and will run through tomorrow (that's when my project will be shown : ) ).  Check out the awesome projects the Verve Design Divas have created, and then leave a comment on each day of previews to enter your name into the drawings to win free sets.  Yippee!  New stamps!  Free stamps!  Are those words not music to your ears?!

Now you know what tomorrow will bring... Class Act Stampin'!  See you then!

Supplies used -- Stamps: Limitless Labels by PaperTrey Ink, sentiment by Sun Spirit Studios; Paper: Window Box from Taylored Expressions (Baby Blue Dark), Labels from PTI (#3207), random acetate, Georgia Pacific White for the tags; Ink: Cyan and Cranberry ColorBox Pigment Brush Pads, Real Red; Accessories: CuttleBug RedTag Alphabet tag die, red liner sticky tape, ribbon, Hershey's Nuggets.

Verve-vacious New Sets!

  This is a preview of one of the two new Verve Visual stamp sets being released tomorrow, Great Expectations.  Verve quite simply has THE BEST sentiments in stamping, as far as I'm concerned.  As a writer, I pay a lot of attention to words, so sentiments are really important to me -- I want just the right ones to convey my feelings for whatever card or project I'm creating.  Great Expectations has so many terrific phrases to express "Congratulations!"  Some of my favorites include: "Guess you're pretty hot stuff now,"  "Can I have your autograph?"  "I'm so proud of you," and "Don't forget me when you're rich and famous."  Aren't those awesome?!  And the timing is perfect with Graduation right around the corner.

The other new Verve set is called Father Figure, composed of truly wonderful words and phrases for two of the most important men in your life: Dad and Husband.  Go check out the Verve Blog's posts for today and yesterday for previews of both Father Figure and Great Expectations from all of the Verve Design Team members.

By the way, make sure when you visit the Verve Blog to leave a comment so you can be entered in the drawing to win one of the two new sets!  And as if I haven't blown your wee little mind with all this Vervilicious (<--- even better than 'bootylicious') goodness, here's more great news: Anniversary Birds and Thankful Blossoms are now back in stock!  I'm not done -- Julee has re-activated the oh-so-true coupon code CAROLEROCKS until the end of today so that you can receive 15% off your order.  But please, at least finish reading my post before you head on over there.  Unless it's like 11:55 p.m. while you're reading this.  Moving right along...

Now, for some deets on the above picture frame.  I saw the amazing Amy Rysavy's Coaster Frame tutorial on her blog last week and thought it would be perfect to make a little frame of Truman's latest basketball photo.  So easy and too cute, don't you think?  I stamped "Superstar" from Great Expectations over and over in different colored inks to make the frame, and adhered some matching gem stars.  I think these little frames are so fun, and I can see making several to add to gifts for the grandparents for Mother's and Father's Day.  Oooh, and with a little ribbon, won't those make nifty Christmas tree ornaments?!  My big wheels keep on turnin'... (I dare you not to sing to yourself "Proud Mary keep on burnin'") (Couldn't do it, could you?)

And we're rollin', rollin', rollin' on the river...(<-- me as Tina Turner)

Supplies used -- Stamps: Great Expectations (Verve Visual)
Paper: Bashful Blue (SU!), patterned paper by Imaginisce
Ink: Brilliant Blue and Real Red by SU!, Clover Meadow by CTMH
Accessories: lightweight chipboard coasters, Cuttlebug & Nestabilities, gem stars from Creative Cafe and Michael's

I Love a Parade!

Actually, that's a total lie -- I HATE parades!  To me, few things on this earth are worse than being in a parade -- waving and smiling at people you don't know, pretending you're having a rollicking good time while they look at you blankly and think to themselves "hurry up and get past so I can see the float (aka pick-up truck) with my kid's baseball team..."  A few times a year and then ENDLESSLY during campaign season, the boys and I have to be in parades with DH, so I know all too well of what I speak.  If you ever see me in a parade, please know that I'm dying a quiet little death on the inside despite the big fake smile on my face, okay?  Okay!

But the Verve Visual Project Parade?  That's a parade I can fully endorse! Julee challenged all of us to create something inspired by these gorgeous pillows: Some of the girls were inspired by the entire group of pillows, but I was drawn to the pillow in the upper left hand corner because I really like that unusual combo of teal with turquoise.  So this is what I came up with:
Yep, it's a pillow box!  I love the way it turned out -- I haven't been much of a box or bag maker so far, but this was a lot of fun and I think it would be a lovely way to package a small gift for someone special.  Today is my day to post on the Verve Blog, so go there to read all the details about how to make one of these for yourself.  Also check out how the other Verve Design Divas have been interpreting the inspiration -- someone different is featured daily.  You're invited to play along with the challenge, too, and there are prizes involved.  But only look into it if FREE STAMPS AND WHATNOT is something that interests you...

Are you by any chance curious to know what's inside my Vervalicious little pillow box?  Any guesses?  A pony?  No, not a pony!  A pair of pair of purple socks wrapped around tickets to see Donny & Marie at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas this summer?  Nope.  Not even close.  I wanted something that would tie in with the inspiration image, something that gave it just the right POP of yellow, and the first thing I thought of...

Lemon drops!

Supplies used -- Stamps: Fancy Florals Remixed, Serendipity (Verve Visual); Paper: Taken With Teal, Basic Gray, Totally Turquoise (SU!), Georga Pacific White, gray textured cardstock by Bazzill; Ink: Taken With Teal, Totally Turquoise (SU!), VersaMark; Accessories: Silver, White, & Silver Gitter embossing powder; foam mounting tape, Swarovski crystals, Scor-Pal, embossing stylus, pillow box template from www.belverbears.us