Mother's Little Helper

Sneaky Peek Week Continues!

Have you been keeping up with all of the Sneaky Peeks thus far for The Cat's Pajamas latest release?  Check in daily at ALMA's blog to see a loverly graphic and for direct links to creations using that day's preview from members of The Cat Pack and our most recent Swanky Stampers.  Also, you can get Sneaky Peeks in your mailbox daily during Sneaky Peek Week by signing up for the best little Mewsletter in all of stamping, TCP's very own CAT'S CHAT (go to the TCP homepage, and in the bottom left-hand corner, you'll find a button that says 'Sign Up For Our Newsletter'; hit the 'GO' button beneath that to submit your email address.  Easy-peasy!).

I'm a little late in showing you this particular Sneaky Peek, but better late than never, right?  I incorporated this week's COLOR THROWDOWN challenge, as well, which is hosted by everyone's favorite Hammer (besides M.C.), Tammy Hershberger.  Here's what Tammy's throwing down this week...

And here's what I made with it using the adorable new BEARING GIFTS set...

Q: Isn't she a cutie full of charm?

A: Yes, yes she is. :)

Check out the brand new CIRCUS BORDER along the side and dressed up with a bit o' bling.  Fun stuff!  Here's a close-up of Missy Bear, taken in direct sunlight so that you can kinda see the shimmer on her bow...

For direct links to more wonderful look-sees created with this darling new set, see this post on Alma's blog.  For instructions of how to play along with this fun color combo challenge, head over to the Color Throwdown Blog.  You'll see a veritable SMORGASBORD of eyecandy - we've added FIVE amazing new members to the Color Throwdown design team so that you're always guaranteed lots of inspiration.  I know our new girls would be thrilled with your congratulations, and our 'old' girls would be happy for a pat on the back, too.  Who doesn't like/need an 'Atta girl!' every so often to keep the pump primed?

• Barbara Anders
• Broni Holcomb
• Danielle Kennedy
• Joan Ervin
• Keva Brown
• Kristin Eberline
• Laura Pryor
• Lori Tecler
• Lynn Put
• Tammy Hershberger
• Wanda Cullen
• and October's OMG-she's-so-fab Guestie, Amy 'Pickler' Sheffer!

And I would be remiss if I didn't mention one more thing before I go: RIP, Steve Jobs.  Thank you for making the world a better, more beautiful place.

It's a Colorful Day In the Neighborhood...

Would you be my?  Could you be my?  Neighbor... I miss Mister Rogers, don't you?  Such a good, kind man.  I hold him responsible for my abiding love for cardigan sweaters.

It's Wednesday, Wednesday, WEDNESDAY! And thus, it's time for the COLOR THROWDOWN!  Which begs the question: are you ready to rumble?  Because here's what the fabulous KRISTIN has challenged you to work with:

As luck would have it, this color combo works perfectly with Kristin's latest digital paper designs for My Time Made Easy, Trendy Forest.  With yummy patterns in hand, here's what I came up with:

I used both The Tweetest Things and Nesting sets from The Cat's Pajamas, as well as my Color Throwdown buddy, Laura's, Sentiment Flags die and stamp set (from her company, Lil Inker Designs). Fun stuff, don't you think?

Check out the Color Throwdown Blog to see more samples from my CTD chicas, and to learn how you can play along with us.  You might even become our Featured Stamper and/or a future Guestie!  For card details and more, see the girlies' blogs:

• Barbara Anders
  
• Broni Holcombe
• Danielle Kennedy
• Kristin Eberline
• Tammy (the Hammer) Hershberger
• Julee Tilman (September Guestie)

I'd like to go on and tell you what I've been doing with the rest of my life, but I'm TOO TIRED.  On the off-chance you weren't already of the opinion that I'm a complete lunatic, you will be now: I've signed up for a month-long fitness boot camp that meets at 5 a.m. on weekdays.  OUTSIDE.  We're doing tons of push-ups and sit-ups (full ones, not crunches - damn it!) in the wet-a$$ morning dew. (Read: we're getting wet and dirty, and it's revealing sensory issues I wasn't aware I had...) Not to mention running. And lunges.  And other horrible, terrible things that no one should do so early in the day.  And did I tell you that my glasses are constantly foggy from the combination of sweat and the chilly air? So not only can I not see because it's dark, I can't see because of the steam on my lenses.

What possessed me?  I don't know.  All I know is that every night since I've started, I've gone to bed and tossed-and-turned, thinking "I have to sleep!  The alarm is going to go off at 4:45 a.m.!" 

Thus, I'm CRANKY!  Thanks for listening to me rant, peeps.  Hope you're in a better mood than me!

 

For Shirley

A very special member of my local community was laid to rest yesterday.  His funeral was one of the most beautiful, thoughtful ceremonies I have ever attended; John would have loved it.  His widow, Shirley, is a dear friend of mine.  John and Shirley were married for 57 years and raised four beautiful children together.  Since I met them when I moved to town 15 years ago, they have served as role models for me in so many areas of my life.  Via the bookclub I became a member of a dozen years ago at Shirley's invitation, I've become friends with two of their daughters; I've repeatedly told them how much I envy them having had John and Shirley as parents.  John was 81 years old when he died, and he lived a wonderful life.  It was my pleasure and privilege to know him.

My sample for this week's Mojo Monday sketch (#208) is a card I've created for Shirley.  Here's a look at the sketch:

A month or so ago I sent Julee some extremely rudimentary sketch ideas, and she's given me credit for designing this week's sketch; to say that she is being VERY generous in attributing the sketch to me is an understatement!  My idea was to be able to do a little color blocking, something I haven't done in quite a while.  Here's what I came up with:

I couldn't decide which of two sentiments from Verve's lovely Forever In Our Hearts set that I wanted to use, so I just used them both.  I inked everything - including the Rose Seam Binding from The Cat's Pajamas - with Walnut Distress Ink, using a foam applicator.  I couldn't get the panels to measure out to a true square, so I just added a layer of patterened paper and a border die cut (Faux Crochet Border Die-Namics by MFT). 

My color scheme was inspired by this week's COLOR THROWDOWN challenge.  I didn't have a chance to create a card in time for the challenge announcement on the CTD Challenge Blog, but I didn't want to let the whole week go by without using Danielle's sweet combo.  

Speaking of Danielle, it's her birthday today!  Happy Birthday, Danielle!  If you have a second, stop by her blog to wish her a happy day, and to drool over her gorgeous work.

Head on over to the Mojo Monday blog for instructions of how to particpate in this week's challenge, as well as for visual inspiration from the rest of the Mojo Monday design team. For up close and personal descriptions of their lovely creations, mosey on over to these ladies' blogs, and leave 'em a little love for giving papercrafters at least one reason to like Mondays.

• Julee Tilman
• Debbie Carriere
• Maria Gurnsey
• Mary Fish
• Sarah Bigelow
• Stephanie Kraft
• Teresa Kline

Thanks for stopping by today, and I'll be back soon.  Have a great week!

PS - Check out the cool Link Manager I'm using below to show/add links to most of the products I've used.  Isn't it awesome?  If you're interested in trying it out for yourself, head over to the In Linkz site.  The Beta version is currently being tested, so you can use it for free through December as long as you have a coupon code.  And just because I'm soooo nice and I appreciate you reading my blog soooo much, I won't make you hunt the coupon code down.  Here it is:

17423064

YNS Blog Hop: Too Cute Too Spook!

Hello, hello (<-- please say like Gary Dell'abate).  Welcome to my stop on the September Blog Hop for Your Next Stamp!  Have you been checking out all the fall/Halloween goodies the YNS Designers and Guest Designers have created for your viewing pleasure?  Are they not C-U-T-E?!  I'm super excited to show you what I have up my sleeve for this hop because I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the image I used.

But before I get to that... I wanted to let you know that I combined my hop card with my Color Throwdown Challenge sample for this week.  I'm the Color Throwdown Challenge Hostess this week, and here's what I'm throwing down:

Little did I realize when I picked these colors that the YNS Hop would be on the same day.  Quandry!  How to use the above color combo with a fall/Halloween theme blog hop?  Hmmm...

 

Then I looked through my new images (which are so fabulous...) and this awesome little gal jumped out of the pile.  May I please introduce to you SUPER HERO ELLIE!

Is she not a complete cutie-full-of-charm?  Why, yes, yes she is! :)  I love her, but that's no surprise: big, big Wonder Woman fan here.  How about you?  Did you play Super Heroes when you were growing up? The Super Friends, The Wonder Twins, Shazaam & Isis, Batman, Spiderman, Plastic Man... I watched all of those shows faithfully, growing up.  Of course, that was back in the day when cartoons were only on Saturday or in the early morning hours on the UHF channel... Aaah... the good old days...

 

Ready for a close up?  Sure you are...

I think girls of all ages would enjoy receiving a card with this sweet super friend adorning it.

Card details of note:

• Super/Wonder Gal was colored with Copic markers on Copic X-Press Blending Paper (the best stuff, and available from YNS) and her cape was paper pieced.  That fun zig-zaggy paper is from My Mind's Eye's "Gertie" 6x6 pad from the Stella & Rose Line.  The black and off-white star paper is from October Afternoon's 5 & Dime pad.
• Check out the embossed stars on the Pacific Point layers.  I bought a new embossing folder at Hobby Lobby this week; Hobby Lobby is now selling their own embossing folders under their Paper Studio insignia.  I picked up this one and a woodgrain one for $4.99 each.  Not a bad price, and I really like the tiny scale of the stars.
• Big star panel was made with Nestabilities' stars.
• In additon to the Color Throwdown Challenge, my card meets this week's YNS Challenge (# 51) to paper piece.

To celebrate this month's release, Karen is giving away a selection of the newest YNS stamps to one lucky commenter.  Check out the booty:

By commenting on any one of our blogs with the linky tool , you'll be eligible to win this month's prize package.  Ready to just place your order?  You are of course welcome and encouraged to do that, too, and Karen's giving away a free stamp with every $30 worth of product you purchase (thus, if you purchase $95 worth of product, you will receive 3 free stamps of Karen's choosing).  Bonus!

Make sure you hit all the stops along the hop today - I know you'll be happy you did so!  I guarantee it, in fact.  The next stop on the hop is a stamping genius, a great friend of mine, and someone I'm going to be hangin' with IN PERSON this weekend (lucky me!), the one and only AMY ROHL!  Just in case you get lost along the way (leaping over tall buildings, or rescuing dudes and damsels in distress), here's a list of everyone involved in today's hop:

Kerri

Dana

Jenny P.

Jen D.  {YNS Guest}

Wendy

Peggy

Ashley {YNS Guest}

Diana

Jen R.  {YNS Guest}

Maureen

Carole

Amy 

Karen

 And don't forget to check out my blog post on the Color Throwdown Challenge today.  Say "hi" to my CTD girlies and play along with us this week if you have a chance.

See you soon, super friends!

 

Just Fluttering By...

¡Hola, mi amigas!  ¿Como estas?  Me?  I'm bueno, but tengo sueño.  (Translation: I'm good, but I'm sleepy.  Aren't you glad you have a blog to visit that not only provides you with crafty goodness but also educates?  What's that?  Not really?  Well.  Fine.  I throw up my hands!  I would rant further, but as I said: tengo sueño.  And thanks to me?  You know what that means.  De nada.) (Look it up, smarty pants.)

So, so, so.  It's late Tuesday night as I write this, but I was BOUND AND DETERMINED to get something put up for your viewing pleasure this Hump Day.  The ol' fingers have been a bit slippery where certain designing balls have been concerned of late.  I'd go into more detail, but - say it with me, now - tengo sueño.

Anywhoodle (<-- not sure how/if that translates into Spanish; if you know, fill me in), I've got two delightful challenges to share with you today.  Just one card, but two challenges.  A two-fer, if you will.  And if you've been reading my blog for any length of time, you know Mama loves a two-fer almost as much as she loves Sour Patch Kids, Deadwood, or Howard Stern.  That's "a bunch" for those of you who've stumbled here by accident or for the first time. 

First off, let's see if you're ready to RUMBLE with the COLOR THROWDOWN! Broni (the Quicker-Picker Upper, herself) is this week's challenge hostess and here's what she's throwing down...

A perfect Indian summer palette, don't you think?  I decided to pair it up with this week's TCP Tuesday Challenge, which is a sketch challenge, hostessed by my favorite LOBster in the whole wide world, the one and only Leigh O'Brien.  Here's the sketch she's challenged us to work with:

And here's what I came up with...

I used the Flutter By set from The Cat's Pajamas and instead of flags, I die cut a couple of TCP's Mini Exotic Butterflies out of white paper and airbrushed them them with a Copic Marker (YR00).  See those pretty stick pins?  They're from Jillbean Soup, and I picked them up while walking the Tulsa Creating Keepsakes convention with the FABULOUS Megan Lock!  I can't tell you how excited I was to FINALLY meet Megan!  She's lived in Oklahoma for several years now, we were on the MFT design teams together and we've been on Jen's SFYTT team for a couple of years together, too. At long last, we made a date to get together, and though it was definitely worth the wait, I wish we'd done it years sooner.  It felt like meeting an old friend. :)  She and her SWEET, PRECIOUS, PERFECTLY BEHAVED, ADORABLE baby girl Emma are nothing short of spectacular, and I can't wait for our next get together.  We've vowed to tour each other's craft rooms.  Which means I'd better get cleaning...

So, where was I?  Um... how about a few more card details?

• Mr. Bunny was colored on Copic X-Press blending card stock with Copic markers and his net was paper pieced.
• All of the patterened paper comes from Crate Paper's new Farmhouse 6x6 pad.  LOVE!!!
• The banner at the bottom was made using Spellbinders' Ribbon Banners and then airbrushing with Copic Marker YR00 while the die cut was still in the die.
• Lots of foam boosters from Jody Morrow's Sticky Stuff Store.  Can't live without those, as you know. 
  

Interested in playing in this week's TCP Tuesday Challenge?  Then headover to THIS POST on Alma's blog for all of the details.  And for more colorful eye candy and instructions regarding how to participate in this week's Color Throwdown, head on over to the Color Throwdown blog, where you'll find samples from my CTD home girls and our September Guestie, who just happens to be one of my ALL-TIME FAVORITE stampers and company owners.  This gal?  A true CLASS ACT, in every sense of the word.  Just for kicks and giggles, I'll list all of this week's participants to see if you can suss out who I'm referring to.  I know you will, because all of my readers are intelligent, noble, kind, and beautiful.  And because you are all these things?  Stop by these gals blogs and leave 'em some love.  After you leave ME some love, of course, because you know I LOVE to hear from you. 

• Broni Holcomb
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Julee Tilman
• Laura Pryor
• Kristin Eberline
• Tammy Hershberger

Okily-dokily, peepages.  I'm hitting ye ol' hay.  ¡Hasta luego!

 

Rosy Banana-Kiwi Espresso

Mmm-mmm - doesn't that sound tasty?  I could totally see that as coffee flavor of the month at some chi-chi coffee bar.

 

Even more delicious?  It's this week's COLOR THROWDOWN! Our hostess is the Divine DANIELLE, and here's the color combo she's challenging us all to use:

And here's what I did with it, using the new PARTRIDGE FAMILY image from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps:

I computer generated the sentiment (the font is called 'Partridge,' aptly enough - you can download it here if you're interested), and I can just imagine these swingin' birdies touring around in their Mondrian-esque bus, travelin' together, spreadin' a little love as they keep movin' on...

Here's a close up of the trio:

The sketch is a variation on this week's Mojo Monday sketch (it's so nice, I've used it twice - and it's only Wednesday).  Copic coloring, and lots of different Die-Namics from My Favorite Things (Say What? word bubble, circle from the Sweet Stack Label set, and the Four Point Frame), a few brads, and a bit of skinny banana colored ribbon.  You get the gist!

If it wasn't so late as I'm writing this (12:35 a.m. Weds.) I'd tell you how much I used to love the Partridge Family when I was little, and how I really thought I'd do a MUCH better job playing tambourine than dumb Tracy.  My mom's name is Shirley and she had blonde hair, so I'd always pretend she was Shirley Jones (aka Shirley Partridge). And to this day?  When I don my sleep mask, I think of Ruben Kincade, every time...

Head on over to the Color Throwdown Blog for info on how to play along with us this week and for samples by these groovy girls (who are cooler than David Cassidy's puka shell necklace, any day of the week):

• Danielle Kennedy
• Barbara Anders
• LeAnne Pugilese
• Tammy Hershberger (who was just named a brand-new DIRTY GIRL!  Be sure to congratulate her!)
• and our FABULOUS August Guestie, Lori Tecler

Come back tomorrow, because I have something SUPER fun to share.  Until then?  My lips are sealed.  (And consider yourself lucky you were spared the Go-Gos tangent due to aforementioned fatigue.)

In the meantime, I'll show you another somethin'-somethin' this image makes me think of.  Family Guy is kind of a thing with my family.  Sad, but true.  We love it.  And when we see bird related stuff?  One of us is bound to say (for example), "Hey, Carter, have you heard?"

To which the proper response is ALWAYS...

 

That's How I Roll...

You wanna know how I roll?  You REALLY wanna know how I roll?  Well, I tell you in a bit.  It's a little scary.  Definitely not for those with delicate sensibilities or a strong gag reflex... But let's save the salacious stuff for the end.  It'll give you something to look forward to.

In the meantime, how'z about we throwdown for uno momento?  Yep, it's Wednesday which means it's time for the COLOR THROWDOWN! (<-- please read silently to yourself, but use an echo effect as you do so.  It should sound like Michael Buffer when he says "Are you ready to rumble?!")

This week, Teamster Tammy (aka Tammy the Hammer)¹ is our charming challenge hostess, and here's what she's throwing down...

Fresh, fun, classy & sassy.  Just like Slammin' Tammy², herself!  Here's my attempt to make our Tamboni³ proud...

I used one of the newest Emilie's Etchings images from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps: SPEEDY.  Get it?  "SPEEDY" is the turtle's name.  Turtles aren't generally considered fast animals.  Yet this one is wearing ROLLER BLADES!!! 

What's that?  Oh.  You think you're too sophisticated for such humor?  Well, I'll have you know that my six year old thinks this card is a RIOT, and he's the funniest person I know.  So there!  I think it's going to KILL with the first grade set, if I do say so myself...

The Color Throwdown is working with a smaller crew through the end of the month, since so many folks are on vacation and/or taking a little time to spend with familia.  But what we lack in quantity this week, we more than make up for in quality. I've browsed through this week's challenge gallery, and I know you're definitely going to want to visit the participating Color Throwdown designers (including the aforementioned Tammy Tutone⁴, whose number is indeed 867-5309) to oooh and aaah over their colorful creations and for further inspiration:

• Tammy Hershberger
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• and our special August guests Lori Tecler (my fellow Cat Pack-er!)and Keva Brown

Why not stay out of the heat and stamp up a cool scene with this week's combo?  You can find all the details for how to play along on the Color Throwdown Blog.

Okay.  As I promised, here's a tiny bit about how I roll:

• I prefer mustard to mayonnaise.  The spicier the mustard, the better.  There's a jalapeno mustard I've been putting on everything these days, since mustard has fewer calories and less sugar than almost every other condiment.
• I'm rooting for Bert to win this season of Project Runway.  He's the old guy who made the adorable little dress that one the first episode (shown last week; if you missed it, you can find full episodes to watch on the Lifetime website).
• Truman (my 14 year old) and I went to see "Crazy Stupid Love" yesterday (with Steve Carrell and my new boyfriend, Ryan Gosling).  It was great - both Truman and I enjoyed it thoroughly.  If a teenaged boy and his mom can both give the same movie two thumbs up?  It's a good one.  Although both Truman and I also enjoyed "Jackass 3-D."  You do know who you're dealing with, here.
• Given the opportunity, I wait as late in the day to shower as I possibly can.  I dread getting ready.  Every day.  Dumb, dumb, dumb.  I don't know why I fight the system.  I should be more like water, as Sayuri recommends in Memoirs of a Geisha...
• My BSF Amy asked me the other day if my brain ever stops.  No, it makes random associations with everything, all the time.  It's like that annoying Bing commercial.  Exhausting!

 

• This is just a random collection of nothing, have you noticed?  But... THAT'S HOW I ROLL!  And now I'll leave you with more randomness - "Once In a Lifetime" by The Talking Heads.  I watched this yesterday -- one of my favorite music videos ever -- because it made TIME magazine's list of the 30 Best Video's Of All TIME.  I "get" this song in a way that I didn't when I first used to watch this, oh, 30 years ago. The existential angst of waking up to yourself at mid-life: who among us hasn't wanted to shout, "This is not my beautiful house!  This is not my beautiful wife!"  Same as it ever was...

 

(Interesting note: this video was created before the existence of MTV.  Which, to me, makes it even cooler.  It was an art project as opposed to something strictly commercial, you know?)

Footnotes:

1. There is no rhyme or reason for the nicknames I've given Tammy.  It makes me giggle just to type them.  And I think it baffles her a tiny bit, which makes it all the better.

2.  And now bafflement?  Has crossed the bridge to irritation.  Which of course, makes it even more fun.

3.  And by now?  The subject of full-on flummoxed!  Hurray!  My job is done.

4. Just in case you missed #3...

5.  There is no fifth footnote.  But - say it with me, now - THAT'S HOW I ROLL!!!

Supplies used:

Stamps: Speedy and sentiment from Roxy by Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps; Paper: Whisper White, Old Olive, & Kraft (SU!), Copic X-Press Blending paper, patterned paper from Pink Paislee's Hometown Summer 6x6 paper pack; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, A|Muse Studio - Slate (for stippling the road); Accessories: Inside Pinking CutUps die by The Cat's Pajamas, Copic Markers, Copic airbrush system, Nestabilities Wonky Rectangles, Cuttlebug Circles embossing folder, grosgrain ribbon, foam mounting tape from Jody Morrow's Sticky Stuff Store.

Everything Is Beautiful...

... in its own way.  Like a starry summer night or a snow-covered winter's day...

Remember that song?  I seriously doubt Britney Spears or Nicki Minaj will be singing it when I go see them tomorrow evening with my oldest son, Truman, and our friend, Larami.  (I'm pre-posting this late Monday evening, and we're leaving bright and early Tuesday for Dallas, where we'll see the concert and do a little shopping before heading back home Wednesday a.m.)  But if they do?  I'll definitely let you know. 

Wouldn't that be CRAZY?! I think I'm going to do a little experiment using The Secret to make it so... Cure cancer?  End hunger world-wide?  Create world-peace?  Nope!  I choose to use the Law of Attraction to make pop stars sing random songs from the 70s!  What can I say?  That's the way I roll.

Speaking of rolling... let me roll out this week's COLOR THROWDOWN for you.  My favorite Lil (st)Inker, LAURA, is this week's challenge hostess, and she's throwing down this cool combo:

And here's what I did with it:

See?  Even MIZUKI (one of Kraftin' Kimmie's Asian Inspired Moonlight Whispers images) agrees with me & Ray Stevens (in so many words).

Here's a close-up of Mizuki's sparkly skulls (thanks to Stardust Stickles) and diaphanous jacket (courtesy of mint green Shimmerz):

Don't be fooled by the bling that she's got - she's still Mizuki from the block. 

No, I'm not going to get started on a J Lo rant.  I'm backtracking to the aforementioned Ray Stevens.  Here's a fun fact for you to know and tell: Not only did Ray Stevens sing the Grammy award winning "Everything Is Beautiful" - he also sang "The Streak."

Oh, yes, they call him the Streak
Look at that, look at that
Fastest thing on two feet
Look at that, look at that
He's just as proud as he can be
Of his anatomy
He goin' give us a peek

Doesn't that just make you want to stamp along with this week's challenge?  I knew it would!  Visit the Color Throwdown Blog for more inspiration and information about how to play along.  And don't forget to visit my colorful Color Throwdown peeps to see what they've come up with this week's challenge and leave 'em some love:

• Tammy Hershberger
• Kristin Eberline
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Laura Pryor
• and our special July and August guest, Keva Brown

Wanna play along with us?  Of course you do!  Just use CTD150 when uploading to a public gallery and add your creation to the Color Throwdown blog using the linky tool.

 

Red Wasabi Apricots

Mmmm... Sounds tasty, no?  Er... well, maybe not.  But it looks delicious, that I guarantee.  How do I know? Because those are the colors DANIELLE has thrown down for this week's Color Throwdown challenge.  See for yourself:

And here's what I came up with, using AKIKO, another of the exotic Asian-Inspired Moonlight Whispers gals from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps.  (Can you tell I love these images?!  I know, I know - I say that about most of my stamps.  After all, life's too short to play with ugly stamps.  <-- That should be a sentiment!)

I also used the July Sketch For You to Try again.  It's a super-versatile one, pefect for bigger vertical images.  I imagine you'll see it several times over the course of the month.  I kept the card fairly clean and simple so that the image would remain the focal point.  The piercing on the Riding Hood Red layer was made via a metal piercing template I picked up a couple of years ago.  And how lucky am I that I had the perfect fabric covered brads in my stash for this week's CTD challenge and the image I wanted to use?  Kismet!  Akiko was colored with Copics and her jacket/robe was paper-pieced.

Be sure to visit my Color Throwdown homegirls to see what they've come up with this week's challenge and leave 'em some love:

• Tammy Hershberger
• Kristin Eberline
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Laura Pryor
• and our special July and August guest, Keva Brown

Wanna play along with us?  Of course you do!  Just use CTD149 when uploading to a public gallery and add your creation to the Color Throwdown blog using the linky tool.

Bearing {Red} Sunflowers

It's Day 2 of Sneaky Peek Week and it's Wednesday, which means it's time for the COLOR THROWDOWN. Ordinarily, I'd say that was the happiest of coincidences, but when I sat down to work this week's color combo with the Sneaky Peek Set of the Day... conundrum!  I'll show you what I mean.

Today's Color Throwdown Hostess is the oh-so-eminent KRISTIN EBERLINE, stamp and digi-paper designer extraordinaire.  Kristin's come up a berry-licious color combo, having gotten the idea from looking at a beautiful photo of a bowl of strawberries.  Ready to see what she's throwing down?  Here goes...

Looks good enough to eat, doesn't it?  So, what's my problem, you're asking.  Well, first let me show you the FABULOUS new image I'm supposed to work with and give you a look-see at today:

It's called BEARING FLOWERS; isn't PJ with that yummy sunflower the most delightful thing you've ever seen?!  A beautiful color combo with an adorable image - again, so what's my problem?  Well, when I think of bears and sunflowers, I think of green and yellow, and maybe brown and blue, too.  Not pink and red and black and sage.  I just couldn't see how the marriage of these two gorgeous things wouldn't produce an ugly offspring.  I even lamented (okay, whined) as much to my Color Throwdown girls. 

Then, Kisa Peters came to my rescue!  "What about cherry cobbler sunflowers?" she asked, with an attached photo that looked a little something like this:

The hallelujah chorus instantly started playing on my mental soundtrack!

Come to find out, there are quite a few varieties of red sunflowers, the most popular being Moulin Rouge, Prado Red, and Velvet Queen.  Learn something new every day, don't you?!  In fact, they can't be too terribly unusual, as they made it on to these stamps issued by the Canadian postal service: (By the way, has that Canadian postal strike ended yet?  Please tell me yes, as I'm waiting on a very IMPORTANT bundle of stamps from a Canadian stamp company.  Not to mention the fact that some of my favorite stamp companies and stampers are Canadian and a postal strike has GOT to be making them cray-cray.)

If you've sat through all this chatter, surely you're ready to see what I've come up with, right?  Here it is:

Do you likey?  I have to say, I was very happy with how it turned out.  Who woulda thunk?!  See that field of sunflowers PJ is standing in front of?  That was created using the brand new ROSETTE SUNFLOWER CutUps die.  I have to say, I like it flat every bit as much as it all done up fancy, rosette-style.  A die that can give you multiple looks for a single outlay of dough-re-mi = a bargain!

I happened to run across some sage thread in my baggie of thread spools inherited from my mom.  I haven't ever actually bought thread in my life - I just use whatever is in the big baggie she gave me.  Finding sage thread is a score, though!

PJ's glittery flower was created via Martha Stewart Crafts' Garnet glitter.

Oooh!  Here's a good tip for you Copic users.  Thanks to a very generous Mother's Day present from my guys, I have all but a few of the Copic Sketch markers.  And you know what?  There isn't a match for Sage Shadow in the lot!  I was able to come up with a perfect match, though, by first coloring with BG72 Ice Ocean, then layering G20 Wax White on top.  I did the same layering of colors with my Copic Airbrush system and aircompressor to create the background color for the sentiment tag.

For links to my fabulous fellow Cat Pack-ers who are also giving Sneaky Peeks of BEARING FLOWERS today, visit Alma's blog.  All of the details regarding this week's Color Throwdown can be found on the Color Throwdown Challenge blog. 

Be sure to visit my Color Throwdown homegirls to see what they've come up with this week's challenge and leave 'em some love:

• Kristin Eberline
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Laura Pryor
• and June Guestie, Betty Wright

Wanna play along with us?  Of course you do!  Just use CTD147 when uploading to a public gallery and add your creation to the Color Throwdown blog using the linky tool.

 

Supplies used:

Stamps: Bearing Flowers by The Cat's Pajamas; Paper: Sage Shadow, Basic Black (SU!), Prism - Blush Red Dark, pink gingham from A Muse | Studio, Copic X-Press Blending Paper; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Accessories: Rosette Sunflower and Grass CutUps dies, Cherry Divine Twine (The Cat's Pajamas),  Copic Markers & Airbrush System, sage sewing machine thread, Nestabilities Double-Ended Tag trio, Garnet glitter by Martha Stewart Crafts, redline circles, tape, and foam boosters from Jody Morrow's Sticky Stuff Store.

Raise the {Daffodil} Lantern

Hello, my pretties!  Happy happy Hump Day!  Wednesdays are long days for me for the next several weeks as I've started the summer semester; I'm in class from 4:30 - 10 pm (same on Mondays) through the end of July.  Blech.  But the subject matter is interesting: Career Counseling and Diversity Issues in Counseling.  Well, at least they're interesting to me, especially compared to all of the legal casebooks and texts I had to read in my previous life. 

I'm sure you'd like nothing better than to hear all about my course assignments and readings -- but really, I think we need to move on to more colorful subjects.  Like, say, this week's COLOR THROWDOWN!  Tammy the Hammer is this week's hostess, and she's throwing down a citrus-y combo that's sure to quench your palette...

I decided to use another of my brand-new ASIAN INSPIRED gals from last weekend's Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps.  I know you must tire of hearing me say how much I love Annie Rodrigue's Moonlight Whispers girlies, so I'm going to refrain from doing so. (But you know what I'm thinking...)  This time, I've used NATSUKO.  Her name means "Summer Child," which I thought went perfectly with Tam's colors. :)

The moment I saw this image, I immediately thought of the Chinese film, 'Raise the Red Lantern.'  Have you ever seen it?  I'm not a huge foreign film buff as I find subtitles a bit distracting (much harder to get 'lost' in the movie when you also have to read what the actors are saying), but I heartily recommend it.  It's visually stunning and has such a great story line: it's set in China in the 1920's and tells the story of a young girl who becomes the fourth wife (or third concubine/mistress) of a wealthy business man, and the politics of living in that household.  The significance of the red lantern is that each day, whomever the master intends to spend the night with has her house (each wife has her own house/rooms that are adjacent to the main house and connected via a courtyard) festooned with red lanterns by servants.  She gets pampered (receiving a foot massage that is apparently addictive) and gets to pick the meals for the next day (which all of the other wives must eat).  Anyway, it's a fabulous movie - it came out in the early '90s and was nominated for an Oscar.  Definitely worth renting (Netflix has it on disc) or buying if you can find a copy.  I'll put the trailer at the bottom of this post if you want to learn more about it.

Anyway, had she been carrying a red lantern, that little smirk on Natsuko's face could be seen as taunting the other wives.  Considering that her lantern is daffodil, and that the sentiment that comes with her is all about remembering kindnesses, let's assume she's not gloating about the foot rub that's coming her way.  I love the little hairnets (or whatever they're called) that Annie has sheathed her hair buns in.  What a unique take on pig tails.  Is that done?  I don't think I've ever seen them before.  They remind me of what my mom used to wear to bed when I was growing up.  She'd go to the beauty shop once a week to get her hair done, then every night before bed, she'd wrap her hair in toliet paper and then crown her swaddled head with a pink satin hairnet.  No wonder I'm so weird...

And, seeing that birds of a feather flock together, well, need I say more about the other eccentrics that make up the Color Throwdown design team?  (I say that with love, girls!)  Why not stop by the Color Throwdown blog to see what the other gals have come up with, then go to their blogs and thank them for putting up with the likes of me?  I'd truly appreciate it, you know. :)

• Tammy Hershberger
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Laura Pryor
• and June Guestie, Betty Wright

Wanna play along with us?  Of course you do!  Just use CTD146 when uploading to a public gallery and add your creation to the Color Throwdown blog using the linky tool.

Other card details?  Well, let's see:

• The sketch is based loosely on last week's Mojo Monday (#194) sketch that I missed while I was out of town.
• Natsuko and her lantern were colored with Copic markers and her dress was paper-pieced.  Her lantern was given a shimmery coat of Sakura Stardust Gelly Roll pen.  I scribbled the ink on it, then spread it around with a waterbrush (a trick I learned from my pal Jen).
• I used My Favorite Thing's Faux Crochet Border Die-namic to create the scallop-y detail near the bottom of the card.

And now, for your viewing pleasure...

 

Supplies used:

Stamps: Natsuko by Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps; Paper: leaf pattern from Echo Park's Springtime 6x6 pad, tangerine pattern from Basic Grey's Ambrosia paper pad, yellow woodgrain from Bella Blvd's Mr. Boy Quadrants 12x12 sheet, Kiwi Kiss & Tangerine Tango (SU!), Copic X-Press blending paper, Georgia Pacific white; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Accessories: Copic markers, corner rounder, Dainty Doily Border Die-Namic by My Favorite Things, Sakura Stardust Gelly Roll pen, ribbon, foam boosters from Jody Morrow's Sticky Stuff Store.

Hello There, Dead Birds!

Time for another one of my Hump Day challenge combos: Color Throwdown + TCP Tuesday = Today's Color Throwdown challenge is being hosted by Miss Cathy.  Are you ready for this jelly?  'Cause here's what she's throwing down...

One of my first and dearest stamping buddies, the one and only Jen del Muro, is this week's TCP Tuesday Hipster Hostess With the Mostess.  She's our inspiration guru, you know, and here's her latest breathtaking billboard o' beauty to get your creativity flowing:

Fortunately, we did have a couple of colors in common (the celery and melon).  To wrap everything together, in addition to the pumpkin, I pulled some of the dark brown from that yummy apron to come up with this...

Isn't this sa-weet?!  I love this set -- Catch My Drift -- from The Cat's Pajamas' latest release.  The little bear isn't colored at all -- I actually paper-pieced him using The Cat's Pajamas' Paper Thin Wood Veneer.  That stuff is so wonderful.  If you don't have any yet, be sure to put a package on your next TCP order.  I promise, you'll thank me!  

What else can I tell you about this card?  I used my favorite LOBster, Leigh O'Brien's awesome cloud technique (so easy, and she's even made a video tutorial which you can find HERE).  The word bubble is from My Favorite Things' Say What Die-namic set (I used the smaller of the two dies).  Otherwise, the ballons are paper pieced, lots of corners were rounded, and that's all, folks!

All the details to participate in this week's TCP Tuesday challenge can be found on THIS POST on Alma's blog.  And all of the deets re: this week's Color Throwdown can be found on the Color Throwdown Challenge blog.  My offer continues to stand: if you combine the TCP Tuesday Challenge with the Color Throwdown challenge and send me a link?  I will happily send you a card made by yours truly!

I'm happy to say that I've actually had a taker on my GENEROUS offer; my fabulous, funny protégé, the one and only Jenny Peterson is going to be getting some happy mail from Oklahoma in the near future!  A while back, I wrote you a footnote saying that you needed to add her to your blog reader and/or subscribe to her blog.  Did you do it?  You should have, because since then?  She's been made a member of the Cat Pack and is the current Guest Designer for My Favorite Things.  Yes, I am a prophet.  I'm telling you: when I make these kinds of proclamations and predictions?  You can take 'em to the BANK!!!

 

Be sure to visit all of my Color Throwdown homegirls to see what they've come up with this week's challenge and leave 'em some love:

• Tammy Hershberger
• Kristin Eberline
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Laura Pryor (is feeling under the weather, and probably won't be posting until later in the week if at all, but drop her a 'feel better' wish, why don'tcha?)
• Cathy Rulli
• and June Guestie, Betty Wright (one of the amazing designers I 'served time' with on the SCS Dirty Dozen - welcome, Betty!!!  So glad to have you playing with us this month!)

Wanna play along with us?  Of course you do!  Just use CTD144 when uploading to a public gallery and add your creation to the Color Throwdown blog using the linky tool. 

BCNYA, homies!

Supplies used:

Stamps: Catch My Drift by The Cat's Pajamas; Paper: Paper Thin Wood Veneer from The Cat's Pajamas, green plaid from LilyBee Design's Picket Fence 6"x6" pad, all other patterned paper from My Mind's Eye's Fine and Dandy "Tickled Pink" 6"x6" pad, Georgia Pacific white; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Accessories: Say What Die-Namic from MFT, Copic Airbrush System, Leigh's Cloud Technique, We R Memory Keepers flocked brads from the Peep collection, orange satin ribbon from A Muse|Studio, corner rounder, Nestabilities ovals and big scallop ovals, Bow Easy, foam boosters from Jody Morrow's Sticky Stuff Store.

Happy Bird-day, Bar!

Life is funny, you know it?  I don't want to go all Forrest Gump on you, but truly: sometimes life takes unpredictible twists and turns, and all of a sudden you get to KNOW someone you thought you've known for a while.  And then you realize that you didn't KNOW them at all, and you have an newfound appreciation for them.  Specifically, I'm thinking of my friend Barbara Anders, aka 'Bar', aka The Great Barbarino, aka The Birthday Girl!

I was acquainted with this gal for a couple of years via the MFT Design Team, but I've gotten to KNOW her over the past month and a half as I've been playing with the Color Throwdown Designers.  She is the PERFECT EXAMPLE of still waters running deep!  She's a genuine HOOT, and I can honestly say I love her more today than yesterday, but probably not as much as I will tomorrow.  So, of course, when Tammy (another total CHARACTER!) was covertly organizing a Birthday Blog Hop in Bar's honor, I immediately said "Yes, yes, yes!" like Sally did in that diner with Harry, so many years ago.

I'm assuming you're a good little blog hopper and that you started at the aforementioned Tammy 'the Hammer' Hershberger's, mosied through a few fabulous blogs and then came here immediately from another one of those SEEMINGLY quiet gals (you know, the one's Eddie Murphy warned about in 'Raw,' who just order salads at dinner), LeAnne Pugliese.  If so, then you're right on schedule. 

I needed to put something COLORF UL together to celebrate my fellow Color Throwdown sister, so here's what I came up with:

A colorful little array of birdies doing a version of the Can-Can on a telephone wire!  To be honest with you, I think someone might have spiked the birdbath with gin...

But no matter!  All the better to say "HAPPY BIRTHDAY BAR!!!" 

 

We love you, chickie!  Now, go see what my Dirty Dozen teammate, the bodacious BETTY WRIGHT has in store for you and Bar today.

Thanks for stopping by, peeps!

Supplies used:

Stamps: Birthday Buddies & Hang Ups by Paper Smooches; Paper: Copic X-Press Blending Cardstock, Kraft (PTI), Pacific Point (SU!), Banana Split (MFT); Ink: Momento Tuxedo Black, Marvy Matchables Black; Accessories: Easy Rosette CutUps die (for the banner label) by The Cat's Pajamas, Copic Markers, airbrush system, embroidery flosss, Jody Morrow's foam boosters.

Happy {Colorful, Flower-y} Birthday, Lori!

I'm sure by now you've heard that it's my SWEET, SWEET, oh-so-SWEET friend LORI CRAIG's birthday!  Rejoice, for she is a blessing to us all!  To paraphrase Olivia Newton-John, I honestly love Lori.  She's kind, fun, smart, and (did I mention?) sweet - all you could hope for in a friend.  She's the soul of discretion who revels in her friends' achievements and aches for them when they're hurting.  The best kind o' gal, that's our Lori.  So don't be surprised when you run across a ton of papercrafting blogs today, paying homage to our friend in a world-wide Birthday MOB!  If she's not your friend yet, you need to get to know her.  You'll love her - I GUARANTEE IT!  And if you don't?  I will send you a gift certificate to the Men's Warehouse.  So there!

To celebrate the Lovely Lori's special day, I'm combining two challenges: this week's TCP Tuesday Challenge and this week's Color Throwdown Challenge.  My precious friend Susan Liles is this week's Hipster Hostess With the Mostess and she's issued what might go down as the most difficult TCP Tuesday challenge in history: MAY FLOWERS - use any Cat's Pajamas stamps with flowers. 

Well.  One of the reasons I am oh-so-head-over-heels about The Cat's Pajamas is their distinct LACK of all things flowery!  It's true.  I'm flower-challenged.  *sigh*  But some how, I did fulfill this mission, as you'll see.

As for the Color Throwdown, this week's hostess is the beautiful and brawny, BRONI!!!  (BTW - for those of you that have wondered, Broni's name is pronounced like the paper towel and rhymes with 'Ronnie' <-- aka Leigh O'Brien's boyfriend.  That's how I had been pronouncing it in my mind, but the other day I asked Broni, as it occured to me that her name could possibly rhyme with 'Tony.'  Fortunately, it doesn't, so I can avoid a paradigm shift.  I hate shifting my paradigms almost as much as I hate doing laundry.)

Ready to see the sassy color combo Brawny Broni's throwing down?  Here you go...

What a wonderfully elegant-yet-fun mix... just like Miss Lori herself!  And with Lori and these challenges in mind, here's what I came up with:

Why, lookie there!  Grande Dame Sprinkle is throwing a birthday tea in Lori's honor (set used: Coffee, Tea, or Meow)!  See her table skirt? It's floral pattern was created by stamping the tiny flower image from the recently released Simply Said set with VersaMark on to Prism Intense Kiwi card stock.  Very little coloring, and lots of paper-piecing on this number.  Don't you love that fun little tag?  It's puffy and plastic coated, made by Making Memories, and has been in my stash for a while.  Isn't 'rediscovering' embellishments gratifying?  Does the sketch look familiar?  It should -- it's Jen's May Sketch For You To Try. :) I have to admit, I like this card a lot -- cute and classy (again, just like Lori!).  And it's on it's way to the Show-Me state as you read this. :)

Please be sure to visit Lori's blog and/or Facebook page today and wish her a wonderful day and year, filled with joy, love and laughter. 

If you want to participate in this week's TCP Tuesday Challenge, see THIS POST on Alma's blog for all of the details.  And I'm continuing my offer: if you combine the TCP Tuesday Challenge with the Color Throwdown challenge and send me a link?  I will happily send you a card made by yours truly! 

Be sure to visit all of my Color Throwdown homegirls to see what they've come up with this week's challenge and leave 'em some love:

• Tammy Hershberger
• Kristin Eberline
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Laura Pryor
• Cathy Rulli
  
• and May Guestie, Jen Mitchell

Wanna play along with us?  Of course you do!  Just use CTD142 when uploading to a public gallery and add your creation to the Color Throwdown blog using the linky tool.  Piece o' *BIRTHDAY* cake!

 

Supplies used:

Stamps: Coffee, Tea, or Meow? and Simply Said by The Cat's Pajamas; Paper: Prism Intense Kiwi, Basic Gray and Basic Black (SU!), MFT Perfect Paper Panel, "Green Onions" from Jillibean Soup's Egg Drop Soup line, Be Mine 6"x6" pad by Echo Park, b&w flower by Doodlebug Designs, b&w gingham by A Muse|Studio; Ink: Marvy Matchables Black, VersaMark; Accessories: May 2011 SFYTT sketch, Nestabilities Circles & Scallop Circles, lace from a Jody Morrow ribbon share, felt flower by Creative Cafe, button, gingham ribbon, Making Memories Sweets - tags card sayings, Jody Morrow's foam boosters.

Krafty Peeks, Day 1/Color Throwdown!

Howdy, friends!  Are you ready to hear from me DAILY through at least next Monday?  Now, now.  Quit jumping up and down in your chair.  You're going to break something or fall down, and then we'll both feel bad.  But I do appreciate your enthusiasm.

What was I saying?  Oh, yes: it's time for KRAFTY PEEKS, that oh-so-special time of the month (not to be confused with... okay.  Not going there... even I have limits) when the Krafty Girls show you the latest & greatest from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps before the big Sunday release!  And, since it's Wednesday, it's also time to get colorful with the COLOR THROWDOWN!  Which means today, you're in for a two-fer!  Go ahead, pinch yourself just to prove this isn't a wonderful dream - this is your life!  Ain't it grand?!

So.  Let's get started, shall we?  Today's Color Throwdown is being hosted by Danielle, and she was inspired by 'Gertie' from My Mind's Eye's Stella and Rose line.¹ Are you ready to see what combo she's throwing down?  Here goes...

Fun, summery colors, no?  Here's what I came up with, using an image by Kraftin' Kimmie's brand new illustrator, Cheryl Alger:²

Isn't he cute?  He's called LITTLE SUMMER BOY; be sure to check out the KKS Challenge blog for links to all the Krafty Girls giving you peeks today to see Cheryl's other images.  If you want to know even more about Cheryl, be sure to read footnote #3³.  To celebrate the addition of Cheryl to KKS's roster of illustrators, Kimmie is generously giving away a whole set of Cheryl's new stamps!  Just leave comments on all of the Krafty Peeks being shown today to be eligible for the random drawing (again, links to all of the participating designers can be found HERE).  The winner will be announced on the KKS Challenge blog tomorrow.  Yippee!

So, now you've got your marching orders.  Visit the Krafty Girls' blogs and leave comments to win all of Cheryl Alger's images being release this month (there are three:  Little Summer Boy, Little Summer Girl, and Spring Friends).  Then, go see all of my Color Throwdown homegirls to see what they've come up with this week's challenge and leave 'em some love:

• Tammy Hershberger
• Kristin Eberline
• Broni Holcombe
• Barbara Anders
• Danielle Kennedy
• Laura Pryor
• Cathy Rulli
  
• and May Guestie, Jen Mitchell

Wanna play along with us?  Of course you do!  Just use CTD141 when uploading to a public gallery and add your creation to the Color Throwdown blog using the linky tool.  Piece o' cake!

See you tomorrow, folks!

Footnotes:

1.  Why do patterned papers have to have THREE NAMES, these days?  It's so confusing... 'Gertie' is actually one 6"x6" pad I don't have.  Okay, I'm going to digress, so bear with me.  It's stamping/papercrafting relevant.  I've got the greatest deal going on with my LSS, Simply Scrapbooks in beautiful NeMar Center (or as we say in my family, The NeMar.  Because we're dorks) in lovely Claremore, America, hometown of Will Rogers.  Everytime they get a shipment in with an 8"x8" or smaller paper pad, they put one behind the counter and give me a call.  I'm a regular customer (of course!), and I used to come in and ask for this or that, and they would be sold out.  I would prostrate myself on the sales floor, kicking and screaming and gnashing my teeth to powder.  It got embarrassing for everyone involved, so we came up with this plan, and it's worked perfectly.  Even though I don't have 'Gertie.'  I'm thinking maybe they don't carry MME?  But I do have all of the Echo Park, Crate Paper, October Afternoon, We R Memory Keepers, and a few others.  I pretty much have abandoned using 12"x12" paper all together.  I should just get rid of my stash.  Think how much room I would have!  But then think how much $$$ I have in all that paper... Actually, don't.  I don't want to go there.

2.  Growing up in Virginia, I lived next door to a family named the Algers.  I wonder if she's related?  They had this big (to me at the time) Airedale Terrier named Beckett that I used to play with through our adjoining fence.  Big Navy family.  In fact, I think all three of their sons (who were older than me) ended up going to the Naval Academy.  I'll have to ask my sister if that's right... Aren't you fascinated by this random stream of consciousness? 

3.  Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps is thrilled to introduce a new artist to the mix....her name is Cheryl Alger! You may recognize her name from Sassy Cheryl's where she creates digital art. Cheryl is creating a brand NEW line of images, specifically for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps! These stamps will ONLY be available at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps and ONLY as unmounted rubber stamps! Now here's a bit about Cheryl!

     I grew up outside of Staunton, Virginia, but now live in the Richmond, Virginia. I absolutely LOVE to draw and always carry a small sketchbook with me in case inspiration strikes me while I'm out and about.
     I have been creating digital art now for about 12 years now and have licensed my work to companies such as Kohl's, Hobby Lobby and Shopko, among others, for over eight years. I started creating digital images about two years ago. It's been a lifelong dream to become a working artist, and besides deadlines, I LOVE everything about what I do! It really helps that I have a very supportive husband and son (they also can be my biggest critics! I have to admit, I LOVE my job!

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Little Summer Boy (Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps); Paper: gingham from 'Hometown Summer' 6"x6" pad by Pink Paislee, aqua swirl from 'Summer Days' 6"x6" pad by Echo Park, saffron stripe from 'Springtime' 6"x6" pad by Echo Park, Copic X-Press Blending Paper, Rose Red & So Saffron (SU!); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Accessories: Copic markers, Circle Nestabilities, Glossy Accents, paper piercer, wide grosgrain ric rac ribbon & foam boosters from Jody Morrow.