Mother's Little Helper

A {Bonita} MFT VIP Blog Hop

¡Hola, muchachas! ¿Que pasa?  Hopefully you've been having have buena time, seeing all the bonita eye candy at each of the stops so far on this month's My Favorite Things VIP Blog Hop.  If you're dancing in step with this month's Hop, you started at MFT Boss Lady KIM's blog, samba'd through the gorgeous creations of many of my design teammates, and came my way via the lovely and talented LISA.  By now, you've had several opportunities to watch the newest Who's That Girl (WTG) image -- WTG - FIESTA -- strut her stuff. 

Cha-cha-check out what I've done with this dancing queen...

Isn't she a hot little number?  But you know what you need after every good Fiesta, don't you?

Isn't that a great sentiment?  If you agree with me, compadre, you'll want to make sure you get this month's VIP kit because it's part of the exclusive FIESTA MINI SET; this mini set is a one-time-only release and a $9.00 value but given for FREE to those who purchase the VIP kit.

Here's everything included in the April VIP Kit:

It includes:

• Who's that Girl - Fiesta! stamp set
• Fiesta Sentiments mini (VIP exclusive stamp set - will never be offered for sale or be available again $9 value, FREE)
• Pretty Posies Die-namics Die
• Basic Grey Luscious 6 X 6 Patterned Paper Pad
• Basic Grey Luscious Stitched Brads

Lots of HOT-HOT-HOT new stuff at an economica price!  The VIP kit is available now, HERE, but you'd better andale.  VIP kits are offered for only one day and are a limited supply item.  In other words, you've got through Wednesday night to purchase one, and when they're gone, they're gone.

As if that weren't enough to tempt you, MFT's got other new goodies in store for you tonight:

• Two new à la modes: YOU RULE and YOU MEAN THE WORLD TO ME
• Five new shades of MFT Cardstock: Lemondrop, Tangy Orange, Razzle Berry, Grapesicle, and Limeade
• Copic Ciao Set E (set of 36 newest Ciao markers)

Your next stop on this hop is that sensational senorita, ARLENE!  ¡Adios, amigas!

 

Supplies used: Stamps: WTG – Fiesta and Fiesta Mini Set by My Favorite Things; Paper: Not Quite Navy, Riding Hood Red, Garden Green (SU!), Solar White (Neenah), We R Memory Keepers Fiesta 6”x6” pad; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Adirondack Sandal (for sponging wall and tag); Accessories: Rounded Banner Trio Die-Namics, Copic Markers, sea sponge, sewing machine, brads, embroidery floss, Dimensionals (SU!)

Pi Day à la mode!

It's 3.14, so Happy Pi Day, everyone!  With that in mind, it's only appropriate that I serve you up a little something à la mode, don't you think?  This delightful line of images has become my very favorite among all of the great stamps My Favorite Things produces.  Of course, I am a bit biased, considering the illustrator, Amanda Baird IS MY NIECE! 

Have I mentioned that before?  {hee}

Around the middle of every month, My Favorite Things releases two new à  la modes images.  Today, I'm going to give you a preview of YOU RULE...

Isn't she a cutie?  Such a great teacher-y set, but it doesn't *HAVE* to be used for a teacher, you know?  Still, I chose to make it so with the idea that I would give it to Carter's teacher, Mrs. McNutt (isn't that a great name for a Kindergarten teacher?  Sounds like someone in a picture book...).  Mrs. McNutt has light brown hair, about the same length as this sweet gal.  I don't think I've ever seen her wear a pencil skirt or a neck tie, but she is in a room with 20+ five- and six-year-olds all day...

I had the fun ruler twill and wanted to build my card around it.  Once I pulled together the patterned papers I wanted to use, I decided to color Mrs. McNutt a plaid skirt.  I find that I prefer to use my Prismacolor pencils and a bit of odorless mineral spirits here and there when I'm using the à  la modes since I can do better detail work with a sharp pencil point than I can with my Copics (although I always do skin with my Copics because it's so much easier).  For example, I highlighted each line on her sheet of paper as well as the margin line using very sharp pencils.  Makes it look more like real notebook paper, don't you think?

I divided the pattern papers with a strip of Black Licorice MFT cardstock ran through my Cuttlebug with MFT's Notebook Die-Namic, and then wrapped it with a bit of Cherry Divine Twine from The Cat's Pajamas for visual interest.  

Here's a simple interior, made with a sheet of legal pad paper, that keeps with the theme and color scheme:

I can easily write a short, evenly spaced note on the inside, thanks to the lines. 

Lots of other MFT Designers are showing off YOU RULE today -- check Kim's Blog for a list of direct links to see more of this adorable gal in action.  The MFT mid-month release is on March 15th at 10 PM EST and includes the MFT VIP kit and the two new à la modes.

Don't forget to celebrate Pi Day with a nice, big slice of -- what else? -- PIE! 

 

Supplies used: Stamps: à la modes - You Rule by My Favorite Things; Paper: Solar White Classic Crest (Neenah), Red Hot & Black Licorice (MFT), Cosmo Cricket: The Boyfriend 6"x6" pad, Bitty Star Basics (PTI), legal pad; Accessories: Notebook Die-Namic (MFT); Cherry Divine Twine (TCP), Petite Oval & Scalloped Oval Nestabilities, ruler twill, Prismacolor pencils and odorless mineral spirits, sewing machine, dimensionals (SU!).

MFT Teasers - Day 4!

  Okay, gang.  I just feel I need to bring this to your attention as I myself am shocked -- SHOCKED! --  by this fact: I have blogged SIX DAYS IN A ROW!  I am quite certain that is some sort of record for yours truly.  For some folks, that's water off a duck's back.  But for me?  Uh-uh.  That's HUGE.  That's DEDICATION.  That's ORGANIZATION.  And that just may never happen again.  So let's savor this moment, shall we? 

Okay!  Now that we're done with our Monday morning cocktails (and really, is there a better way to start a week?  I think not...), let's get on to the REAL reason why you're here.  It's not to witness me babble about this and that.  Or maybe it is -- and if that's true for you, God bless you.  I love you dearly, with the white hot passion of 1,000 suns.  But assuming you're here to see another Teaser for My Favorite Things, let's get down to bidness. 

Today, my fabulous MFT Design Teammates and I are giving you previews of two new sets:

• Claire Keay - Bee Yourself
• Inspired by Flowers

From the moment laid eyes on Claire Keay's illustrations (with the adorable Little Loveosaurus), it was love at first sight.  Her latest set -- BEE YOURSELF -- is equally worthy of devotion.  Take a look...

If that little bee gal isn't a cutie full of charm, I don't know who is.  Here's a close up:

It's hard to tell from the photo, but her wings are given a sparkly sheen with the aid of a Stardust glitter pen by Sakura.  I scribbled a bit with the pen and then 'spread out' the sparkly stuff with the aid of my water-pen, a trick I learned from my buddies Jen & Susan.

Here's the interior of the card:

Now, I'm really going to blow your mind.  Not only is this my sixth consecutive day of blogging, but I'm going to show you YET ANOTHER CARD I created for this month's new MFT release.  I know, I know... you're feeling a bit faint.

 

Can't say that I blame you.  I'm a smidge light-headed myself.  But, see, I needed a thank you note, pronto, and so I pulled out the new CLEARLY SENTIMENTAL ABOUT PARENTING set.  Though highlighting the parent/child relationship, these sentiment stamps are versatile enough to serve many purposes.  Take a look:

A couple of my design teammates used a purple and black color scheme on their Teasers recently, and I so loved the effect I had to try it myself.  I know a lot of folks out there are a little scared of purple, but I love it.  Ever since Donny Osmond and his purple socks, I've been a big fan of this royal hue.  Here's the interior of my card:

You may have noticed both of my cards today use a few of the FANTASTIC new Die-namics being released on Tuesday, DIZZY DOILY, DIZZY BORDER, and UPSY DAISY FLOWER BUILDER. 

You know, I almost feel guilty enabling you in this way.  Almost.  But then again, as I tell myself frequently: is it wrong to share the best (in stamping) with the best (in readers)?  Wouldn't it be worse to hold out and keep all of this stampy goodness for myself?  And so, I give.  Because I'M A GIVER! :)

Now, here are the details about the upcoming release on March 1st at 10 PM EST:

• The MFT release is on March 1st 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 March 1st 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.

Thanks for stopping by today, friends!  Have a great day!

 

MFT Teasers -- Day 3!

It's Day 3 of Teasers for the upcoming release from My Favorite Things, and today's the day all you Pure Innocence fans get a peek at the newest cuties!  The Pure Innocence images my fabulous MFT Design Teammates and I are previewing include:

• Daffodil
• Warm Fuzzies
• One Sweet Chick
• Girl Scout
• Boy Scout

Here's what I came up with using the WARM FUZZIES set:

Isn't she a cutie?  Unlike Ralphie in 'A Christmas Story,' I think she loves her fuzzy pink bunny suit.  It is fuzzy, by the way.  I spoke with Kim (owner/Boss Lady of MFT) right before I made this card, and I warned her that I was planning to "flock her up." And I did -- she's covered in hot pink Fun Flock.  Very fuzzy-wuzzy. The layout I used is the Mojo Monday #178 sketch. 

Here's a look at the card interior...

To create a little interest on the side, I used the Small Scallop Border Die-Namic.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on March 1st at 10 PM EST:

• The MFT release is on March 1st 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 March 1st 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.

 Thanks for stopping by today, and I'll see you tomorrow with another Teaser! :)

 

MFT Teasers -- Day 2!

I'm back, but not in black.  No sirree Bob, today I'm back in a rainbow of colors, literally.  You'll see what I mean in a bit.  First let me tell you which sets my fabulous My Favorite Things' design teammantes and I will be previewing for you today:

• Say What?
• Clearly Sentimental About Parenting

My card features SAY WHAT?, a fun and flirty graphic set that's perfect for a recipient of any age or gender.  How many sets can you say that about?! 

For my sample, I did something I don't normally do: I EMBRACED white space!  Man, am I living on the edge or what?!  Take a look...

It clean and somewhat simple, too.  The only reason it's not simple-simple is because I heat embossed the word bubble and the sentiments before trimming them out and popping them up on foam tape.  That's quite a bit of heat embossing and trimming, but I think the result is pretty darn cute if I do say so myself. :)

Here's a look at the inside...

I had so much fun making this.  As I said yesterday, I {heart} the magic of heat embossing.  Even though it's a somewhat messy and time consuming process, I think that the added texture and gloss are worth it.  If I had really wanted to make this quick and easy, I could have used the new SAY WHAT DIE-NAMIC that works hand-in-hand with this set.  I opted not to, because I wanted an extra border of color outside the black line of the word bubble.  It's a really cool Die-Namic option though, and I've been dying to have a word bubble die forever!  I love the idea of making sentiments come out of the mouths of other stamped images.  Can you imagine the fun I'm going to have with the Pure Innocence kids and those word bubbles?! 

 

Well, since I'm talking about the SAY WHAT DIE-NAMIC so much, I might as well show you, huh? 

Cool, huh? 

Here are the details about the upcoming release on March 1st at 10 PM EST:

• The MFT release is on March 1st 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 March 1st 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.

See you tomorrow for Day 3 of Teasers! 

Supplies used:

Stamps: Say What? by My Favorite Things; Paper: Red Hot, Banana Split, Orange Fizz, Gumdrop Green, Berrylicious, Grape Jelly, and Cotton Candy from MFT, Solar White (Neenah); Ink: VersaMark; Accessories: Extra Fine Black Embossing Powder from Ranger, foam tape

MFT Teasers: Sweet Stuff!

Boy, howdy!  Does My Favorite Things ever have a wonderful release for you this month!  Seriously, folks, this may just be one of the very best ever.  There truly is something for everyone.  It's said you can't please all of the people all of the time, but I think MFT may just be the exception to that well-known rule!

Today is the first day of Teasers for the big March release, and I'm showing off the SWEET STUFF set.  SWEET STUFF is a new look for MFT, and I have to say, I *love* it!  And not only because it features a zebra print background (we're the Claremore Zebras, don't you know).  You know how that crazy bird goes koo-koo for Cocoa Puffs?  Multiply that by 100, and that's how we Claremorons go for all things zebra.

Okay.  Enough telling.  How about I get to a little showing?  Of course, I had to make my sample in Claremore Zebras' trademark red, black and white color scheme...

If I had to think of a phrase to describe SWEET STUFF, I'd say "elegance with attitude."  It's just really, really cool.  Lot's of fun, swishy sentiments combined with animal print backgrounds that go perfectly with the new LAYERED LABEL Die-Namic set (which comes with three separate dies).  I'll show a graphic of the new Die-Namics I used in my sample in a bit.  First, though, here's a look at the inside of my card...

And a side view, just to show you a bit of dimension...

I don't know if you can tell from the pics, but I heat embossed the zebra print and the sentiment on the front of my card.  I <3 heat embossing soooo much; it's actually what converted me from a scrapbooker to a stamper.  It's just... magical! 

Have I ever mentioned that I'm a slooow stamper?  Well, it's true.  But this card took me less time than usual, and I have to say, I'm thrilled with the results.  I'd like to take credit for that, but I think it's probably just the combination of a great stamp set and awesome sketch (this week's WSC Challenge sketch - go to this thread in our Member Company Forum to find the sketch and learn more about how to play along in this week's challenge). 

There are SIX new Die-Namics being released this month, and I used two of them on my card: SWEET STACK and DIZZY BORDER.  Here's a lookie-lou...

Are you dying?  I KNOW!

Here are the details about the upcoming release on March 1st at 10 PM EST:

• The MFT release is on March 1st 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 March 1st 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'll be back tomorrow with another Teaser to share -- see you then, peeps!

My Favorite Things Teasers - Day 3

I'm back with another Teaser from the February release for My Favorite Things!  Today, lots of MFT Designers are showing you the latest Pure Innocence sets -- here's a looky-loo at Pure Innocence - Believe In Magic...

Isn't she sweet in her little fairy outfit? As Jody would say, "Coo!" 

I used the Flower Trio Die-namic (it appears to be sold out at the moment, but I'm sure it will be back in stock within the next week or so), and made this in MFT signature colors. Her skirt/tu-tu has been glittered up in Wisteria Extra Fine Translucent Art Glitter, and there's a black Tiny Twinkle gem in the center of her hair flower.  There's also some stardust glitter pen on her wings and wand, but it's hard to see from the pic. The sketch is the current Card Positioning Systems sketch -- it's a long note (3.25" x 6"), which is always a fun, different size to use to get you out of the standard sized rut.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on February 1st at 10 PM EST:

• The MFT release is on February 1st 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 February 1st 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.

Have a great weekend, peeps!  We received a new family member today - she's the CUTEST!!!  I'll be sure to show you some photos of our new gal on my next post.

 

Let's Get Twisted... Again

Hi, everyone!  Welcome to Day 2 of Teasers for My Favorite Things' February release!  It should come as absolutely no surprise to you that some of my all-time-favorite MFT sets are the Twisted Sentiments.  I LOVE LOVE LOVE 'em!  Where else in the stamping world can you find such... apt phrases to say what's really on your mind?!

Luckily for me and you, MFT is bringing you the fourth in the series this month -- let's hear it for TWISTED FOURSOME!!!  And here's a little something I created to give you a wee glimpse at what you have to look forward to with this fun new set o' sentiments...

Just a little somethin' somethin' to let a friend or loved one know where to find me should they ever be in need... I paired the sentiment with the Pure Innocence - Princess image and used this week's Wednesday Stamp Club sketch as my blueprint -- love 'em!  The Princess was colored with Copics, and her hat and shoes were covered with Light Gold Opague Art Glitter by Barbara Trombley.  I also used MFT's fabulous Decorative Doily Die-namic.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on February 1st at 10 PM EST:

• The MFT release is on February 1st 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 February 1st 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.

Just for Fun! (and a little 'Teasing...)

My buddy Michele Boyer (shel9999) and I have another Just For Fun challenge to share with you!  Perhaps you saw our first Just For Fun challenge last month, but in case you didn't, here's the gist of it: one of us picks out a stamp, the other selects and sends patterned paper.  Then, on a given day at a given time, we reveal to each other -- and all of you -- what we came up with.  Fun, fun, fun!

June's stamp: Winobella by Stamping Bella

June's paper: a coordinating paisley and plaid from the Magnolia collection by My Minds Eye

At first I was going to make a wine tag like my friend Kristi (kmallett78; yeah, I agree -- she needs to bite the bullet and start a blog.  I keep telling her, but she doesn't listen to me.  Maybe your telepathic powers will push her over the edge...) made here, but when I went to look for some sort of template, I couldn't find one.  I let out a big, fat, heavy *sigh* because I always prefer other people to create the wheel instead of having to do it myself.  I trudged to the wine rack and got out a bottle to figure out the dimensions, and it hit me: wouldn't it be easier to just make a wine label?!  My lazy self agreed, so that's what I did using the 8.5" x 11" white adhesive sheets of paper I bought a few months ago from Papertrey Ink.  Here are the results:

And here's a close up of the label:

How much fun will this be to bring to a friends house the next time we come for dinner?  And just think about the Christmas gift-giving possibilities...

The sentiment is by Inky Antics; it was a happy little twist of fate that her leg fit perfectly in the middle of it.  Her Wilma Flintsone-ish necklace is made from small Swarovski crystals.  The wine glasses and the wine bottle she's holding are covered in Sakura Glaze pen to give them a glassy sheen.  The lace at the top of her dress was dotted with Liquid Pearls, and her hair has gold Copic Spica highlights.

I think this is either a bottle of Pinot Noir or Merlot -- I can't remember and it doesn't say on the back.  I just remember it had a rooster on the front.  But I liked that the blue foil around the top coordinated with our patterned paper.  (<-- obviously I'm a true connoisseur...).  I know red wine is supposed to be better for you, but I'm a white wine girl, myself.  And not Chardonnay, if I can help it -- it's too oak-y.  I prefer something a little lighter.  My favorite reasonably priced wines are Pepi Pinot Grigio and Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc.  And, believe it or not, I can get both of them right here in Claremore, America.  Besides being light and crisp, they have the fabulous feature of a screw top!  Now, before you get all snobby on me, hear me out: this makes these perfect for picnics, RVing, etc., and it eliminates cork rot.  Have you ever had a wine go bad from cork rot?  Tastes like you're drinking Ultra Clean.

Now, before you run out and buy a case or two of Pepi or Pine Ridge, stop by Michele's blog and see what she's created.  I'm sure it will be fabulous and make mine seem like I must have been hitting the bottle when I made it...
Cheers!

Supplies used:
Stamps: Winobella by Stamping Bella, Great Minds by Inky Antics
Paper: Paper Basics Adhesive Paper by Papertrey Ink, patterned paper from Magnolia collection by My Minds Eye
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Taken With Teal (SU!)
Accessories: Nestabilities, Copic Sketch & Spica markers, Sakura glaze pen, Swarovski crystals, ribbon, Liquid Pearls, bottle of wine.

Well, since I had the paper out, I thought I'd avoid those dirty dishes and that laundry calling my name and participate in this week's MFT Sketch Challenge.  Here's a little MFTeaser of the new MINI set being released this Wednesday, Call Me!  Kinda bright, but I kinda likey stuff that way...

For more Teasers of the newest MFT sets, lookie here.  And be sure to join us on Wednesday evening (9-11 p.m. EST/8-10 p.m. CST)  for MFT's New Release Cocktail Party/2nd Birthday Party/Kim's FORTIETH Celebration in the MFT Member Company Forum on SCS.  With so much to celebrate, there are going to be discounts galore, like...

*$2.00 US shipping for orders under $40, and for Intl orders and US orders over $40, they'll receive the same $2.75 discount until July 15th.

*FIRST 50 orders will receive a full sized Stickles glitter glue!

*The Girl Who Wants It All special for the July Collection is $49.95.

Plus, you'll learn how you can become the next MFT Guest Designer.  And if that weren't enough -- and surely it is -- I do have a little surprise in store for my friend Cammie.  You'll need to be there to see it, though, because I don't think I want it tarnishing my sweet and innocent blog...

 

Supplies used -- 

Stamps: Call Me! by MFT

Paper: Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie, Georgia Pacific white, patterned paper from the Magnolia collection by My Mind's Eye

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Accessories: Copic Sketch Markers, Nestabilities, black pen for floor boards, brads, ribbon, felt flower, button, embroidery thread, Dimensionals

 

MFT Presents!

So, I've been leading up to the fact that My Favorite Things is revealing something completely new with the June New Releases.  Are you sitting down?  Because I'm going to show 'em to you in all their glory!  But as you know, nothing with me is ever that easy or straightforward; where would be the fun in that?!  So, first, I'm going to tell you a little bit about the thinking behind this new endeavor.

All of you are familiar with the inimitable Christy Beckwith, whether you know her name or not.  She's been the one and only illustrator for My Favorite Things stamps since its inception over a year ago.  Kim (MFT owner and Boss Lady Extraodinaire) knew she had amazing ideas that would translate well into stamps, but she needed someone with gifted hands to get those ideas down in black and white.  She looked around and stumbled onto Christy, and it was love at first sight.  Christy's utterly unique style is so identifiable and now so connected with MFT, it would be positively silly for Kim to try to 'fix what ain't broken.'

So when other artists began asking Kim if she'd be interested in making stamps with their work, or when she'd see something created by another illustrator and thought 'That would be a great stamp,' she'd hem and haw, but eventually come to the conclusion, "Nope, much as I'd like to I can't.  Wouldn't be prudent to add more ingredients to an already perfect soup."  Then she had a flash of brilliance -- "Why don't I just create another line of stamps?  A sister-company, if you will, to My Favorite Things?!"

And thus MY FAVORITE THINGS PRESENTS was born.

Here are the very first images to be released by My Favorite Things Presents, a series of florals by artist and illustrator Annie LaPointe.  I've kept these really simple -- not because you're stupid! -- but because I want you to be able to see the beauty of the images without being distracted by embellishments.

Lavender,

Chamomile, and

Take a Break

Aren't they gorgeous?!  And every bit as much fun to color as the MFT stamps you already know and love.  Each image is available as a single stamp (I'm pretty sure; I'll correct this later if I'm wrong) and goes on sale tonight during the MFT New Release Cocktail Party (9-11 p.m. EST/8-10 p.m. CST).  Click HERE to take you directly to the party venue! 

I still have a couple of other things I've made with more (yes, more!) new sets from this month's release, but I don't want your head to explode by showing too much stamping goodness in one post, so I'm going to save them for tonight and then post them here tomorrow.  See you at the par-tay!

Supplies used:
Stamps: Lavender, Chamomile, and Take a Break by My Favorite Things Presents
Ink: Brilliance Archival Graphite Black
Paper: Fabriano Medioevalis note cards from StarLitStudio
Accessories: Copic Sketch Markers, ribbon

A Sweet MFTeaser!

Here's a little somethin'-somethin' I whipped up for a recent My Favorite Things newsletter that goes to all of the stores that sell MFT Stamps.  So if you happen to be shopping at your local stamp seller and see one just like it IRL, know that's okay!  They didn't steal it -- it was a gift, made just for them to make just for you.  Har-har... like all these stamp and scrap store owners all around the country are feverishly trying to make an identical card... yeah, I flatter myself.  But somebody has to!

Actually, if someone would give me a tower of real cupcakes just like those above, I would happily live without flattery.  They look so yummy, though, I don't think I'd share.  I'm pretty sure I'd just wolf them down.  Then, I'd wonder a couple of hours later how the waistband on my fat pants got so tight...

Be sure to visit all the MFT gals and see what sort of Teasers the rest of 'em have to show you.  We will be mercilessly flaunting all sorts of great stuff between now and Wednesday (which is when the next MFT release is), so much so, you're probably going to cry "UNCLE, already!  Just let me buy that precious polymer!"  And then you know what we're going to do?  On Wednesday, we're going to show you something completely different from MFT.  Something that will Blow. Your. Mind.  Mark my words (not like a dog does; eww... gross.  I just mean, remember you heard it here first...).   

Speaking of Wednesday, have you seen the new MFT banner ads on SCS?  They're promoting Wednesday's New Release Cocktail Party as the biggest one yet.  Umm-hmm.  Lot's of big, secret stuff bubbling in that MFT Tub... You won't want to miss it!  So mark your calendar for Wednesday night between 9-11 p.m. EST (that's 8-10 CST and 7-9 PST; if you're on Mountain time, I can't help you.  I always get mixed up when that is...) and meet me and the rest of the MFT gals in this forum to get in-the-know. (By the way, when adding the last hyperlink to the MFT forum, I saw that there's a whole lot of newsy details on that thread, so if you're interested, go there.  After you've read my whole post.  You don't want to appear rude and leave in the middle, do you?)

Okay.  Since you've read this far, I'll throw you a morsel of news that ISN'T in that other thread.  You deserve it for a) putting up with me and b) being a person of obvious style and good taste.  (See?  I'll flatter you, too, when given the chance.  What can I say?  I'm a politician's wife... Speaking of which, I just want to let you know that despite being approached by hundreds of thousands of stampers urging me to do so, I have no plans to run for President of the United States.  Yet.)


(sorry 'bout that.  My train of thought jumped its track.  Which totally has me singing that song "We Both Reached For the Gun" from Chicago... "Though my choo-choo jumped its track, I'd give my life to bring him back!" And now?  I could go into a whole story about seeing Chicago on Broadway, and going backstage and meeting the entire cast, including Bebe Neuwirth (aka Lilith from Cheers/Frasier who is the tiniest little thing with the greatest body and has more talent in her little finger than most stadiums full of people) and Joel Grey, and Marilou Henner (who was playing Roxie Hart at the time)... but I won't.  Another time, perhaps.)

OKAY!  I'll give you the news already... two of my favorite stamping peeps are joing the MFT Design Team!  I'm so happy to report that Jody Morrow (aka texasjodylynn) and Susan Liles (aka susiestampalot) are now full-fledged members of the MFT DT!!!!  They are to stamping what Bebe Neuwirth is to musical theater!  (Do you not LOVE how I tied all that random nonsense together with a neat little bow?!?!)  So go visit their blogs and give 'em some love!  Then meet me back here tomorrow for TCP Tuesday, okay?  Okay! 

Supplies used:
Stamp set: What's Up Cupcake? by My Favorite Things
Paper: Olive Cardstock, White cardstock, Basic Grey Cupcake 6"x6" paper pad
Ink: Brilliance Archival Graphite Black, Colorbox Pigment Brush Pads in silver, pink, lime, and peacock
Accessories: Nestabilities, Copic Sketch and Spica markers, A Muse Twinkle stickers, foam mounting tape, yellow ribbon.

Where in the World is That Girl?

Right here!  But not for long -- her bag is packed and it appears she's getting the heck out of Dodge.
When I saw the long panel on today's SCS Sketch Challenge, I knew I had to use this image from the brand-new "Going Places" set from My Favorite Things.  I really like this set so much because I love to travel.  Fortunately, DH loves to travel, too, and some of the best times we've ever had have been while exploring places we'd never been before.  Maybe it's because I live in a small town, but I love that feeling of going to another country and realizing how big the world is and how very little of it I've seen.  I dream of one day -- maybe in my fifties? -- being able to travel extensively, taking trips abroad for weeks at a time, really getting to know another country.  I think it would be so exciting to actually live in another country for a couple of years (with the knowledge, of course, that we'd come back home eventually) and absorb that culture throughout the seasons.  Maybe someday, that opportunity will present itself.  Until then, however, I guess I'll just stamp about it...

The good news is, even from my home here in Claremore USA, I can hang out with friends from all over the globe who share this quirky little passion called 'stamping.'  Tonight, we'll be meeting in the MFT Member Forum for our monthly New Release Cocktail Party (9-11 p.m. EST/8-10 p.m. CST).  In addition to some fast & furious fellowship, there will be tons more MFTeasers of the new sets and a chance for you to become MFT's next Guest Designer!  If you've been to one before, you know they're a lot of fun, and if you haven't, don't you think it's about time we changed that sad fact? 

See you later tonight!!

Supplies used: Stamps: Going Places by MFT; Paper: Basic Black, Georgia Pacific White, dotted dsp by BoBunny Press, postcard dsp by Reminisce; Ink: Brilliance Archival Graphite Black, Cool Carribean & Summer Sun for sponging; Accessories: Copic Sketch Markers, Ribbon, sponges, Nestabilities, dimesnionals.

MFTeaser!

The events of last week and the serious fun of the SCS Arlington Shoebox swap have me plumb tuckered out!  Hard work and hard play have left me a little loopy and in need of a 12-hour nap.  Unfortunately, a certain toddler won't even permit a fraction of that nap.  Good thing he's so cute; otherwise, I'd be contemplating the idea of putting him in Gretel's crate for just long enough to grab a few zzzzzs...

Speaking of how cute my wee dictator is, check out this card, which features My Favorite Things' soon-to-be-released Mini Set, "Friends Furever."
Isn't that the sweetest image of a little boy and his best friend?! I truly, l truly adore this set.  But not nearly as much as I do another set being released this month!  I'll have more Teasers for you on Wednesday (aka Release Day; you'll be able to buy the sets on Wednesday evening following the MFT New Release Party in the MFT Splitcoast Member Forum, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. EST), when I'll show you exactly what I'm talking about.  In the meantime, I'm going to see if a little music might soothe the savage beast known as "Carter" and persuade him to grab a few winks with me... 

See you tomorrow for TCP Tuesday, and I'll also share some whos-whats-wheres-and-whys from this past weekend's swap! 

Supplies used --
Stamps: Friends Furever by MFT
Paper: Ruby Red & Summer Sun (SU!), dark brown textured cs by Bazzill, Georgia Pacific white, patterned paper by SEI, metallic paper by Creative Memories
Ink: Brilliance Archival Graphite Black, Certainly Celery & Cool Carribean (SU!), Versamark
Accessories: Nestabilities, Copic Sketch Markers, ribbon, black embossing powder, Dimensionals

Such a Tease!

Who me?  Never.  I prefer to give people what they want...  Just call me the Ado Annie of the stamping world (I do live in Oklahoma, after all).  And what I'm sure you want now?  Another MFTeaser!
I made this for yesterday's SCS Color Challenge to use Cameo Coral, Creamy Caramel, Mellow Moss, and Apricot Appeal.  That Girl from the new My Favorite Things' "Can Ya Dig It?" set is wearing a lovely dress of My Mind's Eye paper and a fetching Creamy Caramel hat whilst patting down her plant.  This is EXACTLY how I dress when I'm gardening.  Or it would be, if I gardened.  But I love these sweet images, and I admire people who garden.   I really think a well-tended garden, be it flower or vegetable, is a thing of extraordinary beauty.  Maybe one of these days...

But first, I've got to get a few *special* things done for tonight's MFT New Release Cocktail Party, which will be tonight from 9-11 in the MFT Member Forum HERE.  You really don't want to miss it.  I'm planning a tribute to my dear friend and surrogate, Cammie...

See you tonight!!

Supplies used -- Stamps: Can Ya Dig It? by MFT; Paper: Cameo Coral, Mellow Moss, Apricot Appeal, Creamy Caramel (by SU!), Georgia Pacific white cardstock, dps by My Mind's Eye; Ink: Brilliance Archival Graphite Black, Creamy Caramel, Mellow Moss, Soft Sky; Accessories: Copic Sketch Markers, Prima paper flowers, ribbon, corner rounder, stipple brush, brad.

Dirty Little Secret!

Ready for an MFTeaser?!  Take a looksie...
It's a little tin I've altered with the adorable new "Can Ya Dig It?" set by My Favorite Things.  Are those tiny seed packets not the CUTEST?!  What?  You want a closer look?  Well, as I always tell my husband and children, your wish is my command...
You know, I like this so much, I'm tempted to keep it for myself.  And ooftie!  If you could see what's inside!  But you can't.  It's a surprise for one of my dear friends.  She can show you if she wants when she receives it.  Trust me, she's going to {heart} it!  What's that you say?  Did I just drop a hint?  Maybe...

So I've told you what a crazy-busy stamping week this is going to be for me, right? The Cat's Pajamas is unveiling a new weekly feature on April 1st -- no fooling -- and I have some BIG news to share that same day.  Plus, I'm going to be running around like a headless chicken (<-- future MFT set?  Kim?  What do you think?!) trying to pull off a few choice practical jokes.  Wednesday brings the MFT New Release Cocktail Party.  So get some rest over the next couple of days, stampers!  By Thursday?  You just might need a vacation.

Supplies used -- Stamps: Can Ya Dig It? by MFT;  Paper: Summer Sun by SU!, Georgia Pacific White, patterned paper by The Paper Studio; Ink: Brilliance Archival Graphite Black, SU! Basic Black; Accessories: hinged tin from Gina K., ribbon, corner rounder, Copic Sketch & Spica markers.