Mother's Little Helper

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!

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.

Frosty Fun

It's Wednesday, all day, and you know what that means: time for another Wednesday Stamp Club sketch challenge from My Favorite Things! 

This sketch has lots and lots of possibilities.  I took the snowflake embellishment pretty literally, but you don't have to.  You could use any fun shape instead. 

Ready to see what I came up with?  Alrighty, then -- here's my little homage to winter weather (we're supposed to be getting some of the white stuff here in Oklahoma on Thursday):

I used the new Frosty Fun image, illustrated by Claire Keay (she's the same person who drew the adorable Loveosaurus set). Doesn't this little gal look like she's having fun, gliding on that Berrylicious background?  Actually, that's probably some bumpy ice she's skating on due to the fact that I embossed it with Cuttlebug's Snowflake embossing folder.  She doesn't seem to mind too much.  Her outfit -- and the entire color scheme -- was dictated by the fact that I just got a box of MFT's fabulous 100 lb. cardstock in the mail and I was dying to use some of this yummy Grape Jelly.  I love purple.  Even my stamping room is purple.  I know that surprises you...

Ready to see the inside? 

I'm starting to get the hang of decorating the insides of my cards.  Some folks decorate their interiors almost as much as the outsides of their cards, but I like to leave plenty of blank space to jot down a note.  I tend to be kind of long-winded when I write.  Really.  It's true.  No.  I'm serious.

I used the larger of the Let It Snowflake Die-namic cut out on the outside of the card, and covered it in Stardust Stickles.  I used the medium sized snowflake on the inside, and decorated it with a little bit o' bling.  I tried to make the two decorative horizontal layers look like icicles by using the Fresh Cut Grass Die-namic.    

Do you have a little winter weather headed your way?  Then take advantage of it and get to stamping!  First, though, you might want to head over to Kim's blog for a list of all the participating MFT Design and Challenge Team members who have created samples to get you inspired.  Then, use the sketch as a springboard and let your creativity soar!  When you upload to your Splitcoast gallery, be sure to use MFTWSC3 as one of your keywords to be eligible to win the weekly drawing for a $20 voucher to the MFT Boutique.

Thanks for stopping by to visit me today!  Stay safe and warm, friends.

Supplies Used – Stamps: Frosty Fun by My Favorite Things; Ink: Marvy Matchables Black, Adirondack Brights Purple Twilight; Paper: Berrylicious and Grape Jelly from MFT, Solar White (Neenah), MiniDots from Karen Neuburger’s Hip Hip Hooray line; Accessories: Let It Snowflake and Fresh Cut Grass Die-namics from MFT; Copic markers, opague white pen, Frosted Lace and Stardust Stickles, Cuttlebug Snowflake embossing folder, bling, ribbon, Nestabilities Petite Ovals – Small, Doodlebug Sugar Coated brads.

Heart Full o' Glitter

Happy Hump Day, beautiful people!  For civilians, Wednesday merely declares that half the work week is over.  For us papercrafters, Wednesday is far more meaningful: it's a celebration!  It's time for My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club challenge!  Wooo doggies! 

As you know, MFT has made the Wednesday Stamp Club challenge a sketch challenge.  This seems to suit everyone -- in addition to our amazing Challenge Team who faithfully participate in each weekly challenge, there are so many more of MFT's awesome Design Team members participating.  And from the looks of last week's WSC challenge -- which had more than 110+ participants -- the stamping public likes the change in format, too.  To the left, you'll find this week's sketch.

And here's what I made with it:

A little Valentine, featuring Pure Innocence - Love You With All My Heart (dang it!  She's currently out of stock; I'm sure she'll be available soon).  I added her socks with a fine line black marker (I like my PI's to wear socks -- they're too young for panty hose and I don't want their bare feet getting sweaty in their shoes.  Plus, it's a little cold for bare feet right now, anyway...) colored her in with Copics, paper pieced her wee dress, and covered her heart in red Martha glitter.  Don't you just love glitter?  It makes me happy.  Check out her little shoes.  They have a coat of clear Glaze pen on them and are adorned with tiny Swarovski crystals.  Cuteness! 

Here's a look inside...

The sweet metallic heart was made using the Hearts a Plenty Die-Namic.

Head on over to Kim's blog for links of all the other MFT designers participating in this week's challenge.  Then, give the challenge a try yourself.  You have nothing to lose, and potentially a $15 in gift vouchers to the MFT boutique to gain!  Simply create a card or other project utilizing this week's sketch, then use MFTWSC2 as a keyword when you upload to your Splitcoast gallery.  You'll be automatically entered into this week's drawing.  For more details, visit this discussion in the MFT Member Company Forum on SCS.

Enjoy your Wednesday, and I'll be back soon with more Sneaky Peeks from The Cat's Pajamas.  Thanks for stopping by to visit me today. :)

 

MFT Wednesday Stamp Club: Who You Callin' Lady?

Okay.  This is getting a little strange... three posts from me in less than 48 hours?!  I'm pretty sure that's some kind of record.  DON'T GET SPOILED!  You know you can't count on me to entertain you with this sort of consistency for long.  So, as I tell my children: enjoy the moment, and let's let tomorrow worry about itself.  This sort of behavior from me is like 60 degree weather in January in Oklahoma.  It happens on occasion, but it ain't gonna last.  Still, might as well shuck the jacket and put the top down while you can!

So, today is Wednesday, which means it's time for My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club challenge -- the first one of the new year!  There's going to be a change in the WSC format from here on out.  Here's the info from MFT to fill you in on the changes:

MFT is super excited to announce that Wednesday Stamp Club will now be centered around a weekly sketch. We know your stamping time is precious, and we want you to maintain as much creative freedom as possible. Sketches are the perfect starting point to a card. Use it as a blueprint, and create a card using the stamp set and supplies that strike your fancy. You can turn to the sketches time and again for creative inspiration.

A new sketch will be posted each Wednesday at midnight on the MFT blog. You'll also find the sketch in the MFT forum on SCS on Wednesday morning, as well as in the weekly newsletter. Our talented Challenge and Design Teams will be on hand to provide plenty of inspiration to get you started.

We encourage you all to play along, and to enter your card in the weekly draw for a $15 gift voucher to the MFT Boutique. Simply follow the sketch and create a card or other paper creation. You may use any stamps and supplies that you wish. Each week, a keyword is assigned to the sketch. All you need to do to enter, is upload your card to the gallery at SCS, and enter the given keyword in the keyword box, during the upload process. After the deadline, we randomly choose a winner from that week's entries and the winner will receive a $15 gift voucher. If the winning card uses MFT stamps, the participant will earn a $5 bonus, for a total of a $20 gift voucher! That is up to $100 per month in prizes, JUST for playing along. We hope you'll join us in 2011.

Cool, huh?  I love sketch challenges -- they do the hard part and leave me with the fun choices of stamps, paper, and embellishments.  Yay!  So, here's the first WSC sketch of 2011:

And here's what I did with it, using the new Pure Innocence - Ladybug image that was just released last night:

You'll notice that my ladybug is a little... er... uh... more masculine than the rest of the ones you've been seeing on the MFT Design Team blogs.  There's a story behind this.  See, my son Carter received a Ladybug Pillow Pet (It's a Pillow!  It's a Pet!  It's a PILLOW PET! Surely you've seen that commercial dozens of times over the holidays) from his Grammy for Christmas.  He and his cousin Jack were watching TV with her one day and told her which ones they wanted.  Jack wanted the Dolphin, and Carter wanted the ... Ladybug. 

When Carter opened his Ladybug, he was thrilled.  Truman, however, was not. 

"Why'd he get a ladybug?" Truman asked.

"Because he wanted one," I answered.  "Who says Ladybugs are girls, anyway?  Remember the one in A Bug's Life?  And don't make me remind you of a certain little boy who used to prefer the Pink Power Ranger..."

To avoid further gender confusion, Carter has named his Pillow Pet "Dude" and we've decided Dude speaks with a deep rasp that's indicative of his 3 packs-a-day habit.  To give the ladybug her/his makeover, I inked up the image then carefully took a few sharpened blending stumps dipped in stamp cleaner and 'erased' the girl's hair before stamping the image on paper.  You can still kind of see a couples of wisps, but I'm going to pretend that's errant ear and facial hair.  I added a little 5 o'clock shadow to him, too.  His spitcurl and smirky eyebrows and mouth were patterned after Francis (the aforementioned male ladybug from A Bug's Life).  A white undershirt, socks & sneakers... and wah-lah!

My Valentine for my little guy is done!  Guess which DVD I'm going to pair this with for a little love offering on Feb. 14?

Don't forget to head over to Kim's blog for a link list of all the MFT designers participating in this week's challenge.  You can also find lots of sample in the WSC sub-forum within MFT's member company forum on Splitcoast.  We'd love for you to come and play with us this week!

Happy Festivus!

Howdy, gang!  Sorry it's been such slim pickings around here of late.  Like I told my husband last night, "Christmas is a full-time job."  Between the decorating, the shopping, the wrapping, the parties, and what not...

Sometimes a girl just needs to stop and give herself a moment for a little stamping therapy.  Though I'm personally inspiration-free at the moment, I knew I could count on My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club to give me a challenge that would get my mojo a-go-go.  Today's challenge is: Simply Die-Namic -- create a card or project where Die-namics (dies) are the main component (SCS Keyword MFTWSC12222010).

And since tomorrow is the 23rd -- also known as FESTIVUS! -- I thought I'd create a little something for the rest of us.  What's that?  You're not familiar with Festivus?  Well, then watch this for a primer:

And here's my tribute, using the Die-Namic Banner Strip Die and Mini Alphabet Set.

Please note the shimmery ribbon, in honor of the Festivus Pole.  And, in further celebration of this auspicious occasion, I have a first: my first decorated card interior!  Can I get a holla?

Simple and to the point.  For the sentiment, I used a combination of Twisted Sentiments and the Grow Love Plant a Tree set.

Are you in need of a break and a little stamping therapy of your own?  Then come play with us!  For links to more samples by MFT designers, see this post on Kim's blog.  Be sure to use MFTWSC12222010 as a keyword when you post to your Splitcoast gallery to be eligible for a random drawing for $15 to the MFT Boutique. 

Now, I must go.  Gotta get started on the Festivus meatloaf, write down my list for the Airing of Grievances, and practice my wrestling moves for the Feats of Strength.  Here's wishing many Festivus Miracles for you and yours!

I'm back!

Howdy, peeps!  It's been a week or so since I've slowed down for long enough to have a moment to stamp and share.  I'm quite certain I'm the only one who gets a wee bit busy around this time of year.  However, I do realize there are millions of you waiting for crumbs of information about my glamorous life.  Thus, I forced myself to take a break from jet-setting, hob-knobbing, and humanitarian work to give my adoring public what they want.

And, since it's Saturday, that means it's time for Jen's Sketch For You To Try!  Holla!

These last weeks of the year -- before she unveils the new SFYTT procedure (which she's hinting about on her blog today) -- Jen's letting us pick among all of the past SFYTTs to work with.  I dug around through my various print-outs and found this one from November 14, 2009 that I thought would be fun to try once more.  I wanted to combine it with this week's My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club Challenge (which I'm late for) - create a Winter Wonderland.  Here's what I came up with:

Isn't she sweet?  I used the first Pure Innocence image I ever inked up -- Snow Day.  Love her!  My color choices were determined by the patterned paper -- Jillibean Soup's "Whole Cloves" from the Christmas Chestnut Soup line.  Kind of a rusty red and a very dark brownish green.   I colored the cutie with Copics and highlighted the snow with Stardust Stickles.  The side embellishment was made using a ribbon brad and My Favorite Things' fabulous Hearts A Plenty Die-namic.  This is one you're definitely going to want for all of your heartfelt and Valentine-y needs.  See what I mean...

Good stuff!  Anyway, I inked the edges of all the cardstock with a little Color Box Cat's Eye inkpad in Popcorn, finished off the corners with some brads, and there you have it -- a krafty little winterscape. There's still time for you to play along in this week's WSC Challenge; just use the keyword MFT12082010 when you upload to your Splitcoast gallery to be entered in the weekly WSC drawing for a $15 voucher to the MFT Boutique. 

Try this sketch -- it's a keeper!  Be sure to stop by Jen's blog for her sample and to find out what she has up her sleeve for the SFYTT New Year.  Then, make sure you head on over to my SFYTT Sister's blogs to see what sketchy inspiration they've got in store for you:

Susan Liles
Amy Rohl
Amy Sheffer
Megan Lock
Amber Hight
Sony Christoph
Jodi Collins
Jenn Diercks (this is Jenn's last week as an SFYTT Sister -- be sure to wish her well!)
Kelly Lunceford
Leigh O’Brien

and introducing the new SFYTT Sister on the block, Kerry Johnson (aka PPL#2; don't ask -- you DON'T want to know)!!!

Also playing along with us this week are the uber-talented Joanne Basile and Ana Wohlfahrt!  Yay!

Now for a little non-stamping related news...

As I mentioned earlier, we've had a tsunami of activity here at the Burragio.  I had papers and presentations and finals, oh my!  Truman, my oldest, is running for his junior high's Student Council President.  I can't resist showing you the photo that ended up on his campaign posters...

He needs a haircut (looking a little Wolverine-ish), but isn't he a cutie?  I swear, though, it's MUCH worse being the mother of a candidate than being the spouse of one (and that's pretty bad, believe me).  Gives me knots in my stomach.  I think it's wonderful he has the confidence and chutzpah to run for office, but I anguish at how he might feel if he loses.  I ran for student body president my junior year of high school and lost, so I know it's not the end of the world. I know firsthand there's no shame in losing a well-fought race, and that the experience is actually character building.  You learn you wont die from disappointment, and to just rally for another day.  But as a mom... well, you know.  My kid is terrific and perfect and amazing and how dare anyone think he's not!  Anyway.  I guess a person who marries a politician and names her kids 'Truman' and 'Carter' shouldn't be surprised when one of them runs for office.  Probably wasn't the smartest strategy for someone who loathes campaigning.

What else?  Well, Carter had his school holiday program this week...

He's the adorable one, seated, in the burgundy and hunter rugby shirt (gotta love a good hand-me-down that is still relatively fashionable seven or eight years after purchase).  Please note the light-up shoes; Carter refuses to don footwear that doesn't appear to burst into flames with every step.

"The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay..."  (This surprised me.  I grew up right outside of D.C. and we NEVER would have gotten away with singing "Away in the Manger" in a public school.  Truman went to private school all during the school musical program years, but it was one of those where they'd sing old English wassailing songs or something equally esoteric.  I guess public school in Oklahoma's different.  How about where you live?)

"Up on the housetop..."

"Out jumps good old Santa Claus!"

At the 'wrap party' in his classroom with one of his buddies.

Arguing with me that his face was clean and he wouldn't need a bath that night.  Uh-huh.  God bless those parents who bring items with red and green frosting to school functions.  Kids love 'em.  If it were up to me, they'd have nothing but plain sugar cookies and Sprite...

Okay, folks.  I has gots to go.  Have a great weekend, and I'll see you sooner than later!  Thanks for indulging me. :)

Supplies Used – Stamps: Pure Innocence – Snow Day, by My Favorite Things; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Color Box Fluid Chalk in Popcorn for edging; Paper: “Whole Cloves” from Jillibean Soup’s Christmas Chestnut Soup collection; Fossil from My Favorite Things; Neenah Solar White;  random colored cardstock from my stash; Accessories: Hearts A Plenty Die-namic by My Favorite Things; rectangle Nestabilities, Copic Markers, Stardust Stickles, ribbon, Dimensionals (SU!), ribbon brad by Spare Parts, copper brads.

Hurry Up, Santa!

Happy December 1st!  You know what the first Wednesday of the month brings, don't you?  Another fabulous sketch challenge for My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club, created by the dinomite duo of Cindy and Frances! Holla!

After much hemming and hawing, I decided to play with the sweet little gal from the new Pure Innocence - Naptime set.  Take a look...

I decided to use this week's Splitcoast Color Challenge colors, too (Real Red, Old Olive and River Rock).  With that color scheme in mind, I got to thinking about Christmas Eve when I was a little girl.  Like this sweet little chickie, I wore footie pajamas because our house was always cold; my mother refused to turn the heat above 65 degrees.  And, yes, in the summer?  The AC was not allowed below 80 degrees.  Is it not a wonder that a delicate flower like me didn't perish? 

Anyway, Christmas Eve was the one day of the year that I was anxious to go to bed.  I would try to go to sleep the moment it got dark so Santa would come to my house first.  Therefore, I had to draw a little clock in the corner, showing little Miss PJ getting ready to hit the hay at 5:30 p.m.  It's covered in Glossy Effects to make it shiny.  Her tiny scene is framed out using the new Die-namics Textile Rectangle.  Her jammies are paper pieced, as is her blankie.  The olive circle panel was embossed using the Cuttlebug Houndstooth embossing folder.  And the sentiment is from MFT's Merry & Bright sentiment set.

Be sure to head over to Kim's blog around 11 a.m. EST to find links to all the other MFT designers playing along in today's challenge.  Then, come join us!  When you upload your creation to your SCS gallery, be sure to use the keyword MFTWSC12012010 to be eligible to win a $15 voucher to the MFT boutique.

In non-stamping related chit-chat, I have to say, it's so wonderful to have most of my Christmas decorations up by Dec.1!  That may sound bragadocious, but I truly don't mean it that way.  If you knew what a slacker I've been in this department compared to my glorious pre-Carter past, you'd really be happy for me.  I feel like maybe I'm actually getting my groove back from having that second child.  It's only taken me six years... The self-satisfaction I feel as I type this on my laptop on Monday evening, in the glow of the Christmas tree lights, with my feet on the ottoman and a glass of pinot grigio on the end-table, watching A&E's atrocious Project Runway wannabe, The Fashion Show?  Well, I think this must be how Martha feels full-time.  Of course, she probably doesn't have dirty laundry stacked to the ceiling in the utility room, but nevermind that.  She's got staff and I'm a one-woman show.  Plus she's an ex-con and I'm not.  So there.

Now, if I can just get my classes over with, I'll be ready to enjoy the holiday season unfettered.  Tonight (meaning Wednesday night) I have to give a presentation.  Ugh.  My first Powerpoint presentation, believe it or not!  I guess I'm a bit of a luddite.  Wish me luck.  I'll let you know how it goes. 

Hasta luego, chicas!

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas...

I know, I know, it's not even Thanksgiving yet...  And for today's My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club, this week's challenge is Thankful For - What are you thankful for? Thanksgiving themed cards, party favors, table decorations (SCS Keyword MFTWSC11242010).  For a list of all the MFT designers participating in this week's challenge, you'll want to head over to Kim's blog.

I was laying in bed the other morning, thinking about this challenge and listing to myself some of the many things I'm thankful for, and I got a bit weepy.  It's true!  I'm a pretty tough cookie in that I have a high pain tolerance, I can take rejection, and though I'm pretty competitive, I'm a good loser (something I'm trying to teach my eldest about).  So it's not that I'm a crybaby.  But I may just be the most sentimental person on the planet.  It's a joke around my house -- "Uh oh.  Mom, you're not going to start crying, are you?"  Truman has a mean little trick he likes to play on me, that goes a little something like this:

"Hey, Mom -- you know I've only got (insert # of years and/or months) until I (insert milestone like "get my braces off," "start driving," "graduate," or "leave for college)." 

This, of course, reduces me to a puddle of salty tears. 

So, where am I going with this?  Good question...

My point is, I don't want to start crying all over my keyboard by listing how thankful I am for this wonderful life.  I do think most of the things I'm most grateful for come down to having had the good fortune of meeting the greatest guy when I was barely a sophmore in college and (somehow) having the good sense to recognize that he was a keeper.  One of the items in Life's Little Instruction Book that I've always taken to heart is this: Choose your life's mate carefully. From this one decision will come ninety percent of your happiness or misery.  After 22 years together (17+ of which as man & wife) I unequivocally agree with that little nugget of wisdom.

But I don't want to talk about that.  Instead, I want to talk about how grateful I am that the holidays are upon us, and how pleased I am that I'm getting ahead of the game this year.  Usually, I end up feeling overwhelmed about getting the house decorated and then guilty that I didn't do more.  I don't know what's different about this year, but I'm totally into it.

One thing that's different: I'm taking the opposite approach to what I ususally do.  Ordinarily, I'll put the 'most important' stuff out first: the family tree in the main living room, the stockings, photos, and the nativity scenes.  By that time, I'm usually pooped, and forego the secondary decorations.  This year, I've decided to try putting the secondary stuff out first.  Take a look:

Villages!  I have tons of Dickens and Snow Village houses that have not been put out since before Carter was born.  It's just seemed like such a chore.  But, then, if I don't enjoy them now, when both the boys are still at home (insert weeping), when will I ever?  So, I've got most of them out this year.  I decided to put them on top of the cabinetry so we can "look but not touch" and so they don't take up a huge amount of living space.  Above are a few of my favorite Dickens Village houses, above the cabinets in our den.

And there are the Snow Village houses (my favorites, because they're brighter, shinier, and kitschy-er than the more refined Dickens) above the cabinets in the kitchen.

This is a little section referred to as "Tennessee" since it features Ryman Auditorium (home of the Grand Ol' Opry) on the left and Graceland on the right.

I've even got the Snowman tree (in the den) put up this year!

I think beautifully wrapped presents are great decorations, but too often, I end up shoving something in a gift bag right before I have to give it (and often on Christmas Eve).  This year, in an effort to enjoy the wrapped presents under the tree, I've made a bunch of bows in advance, ready to adorn.

These were completed over a couple of evenings watching TV.  I think pretty, homemade bows really dress up a present.

And -- here's where My Favorite Things comes in -- one of the things I'm VERY thankful for this year are MFT's Die-namics, which are also going to add a certain panache to our gift giving this year:

I took plain sheets of white adhesive paper, and ran them through the Cuttlebug with the Polka Dot Framed Greetings Die-namic.  Then I stamped them off with the Polka Dot Greetings Stamp set (which comes with the Die-namic) in in Adirondack Earthtones Cranberry and Meadow inks.  The 'To' and 'From' are part of a different set that I'll hunt up the name for and edit to add later. 

Another thing I'm grateful for?  You reading this meandering, random post, and all the other ones you take the time to read throughout the rest of the year.  I really appreciate you.

 

BUY THE WAY:

It’s a pink and black Friday!

MFT is celebrating Black Friday, pink & black style. We’re bringing you the savings early and extending the sale through Saturday. We like celebrating… what can we say?

From Wednesday, November 24th, through Saturday, November 27th, enjoy the following “Black Friday” specials:

Spend $25 and get a FREE Chocolate Kiss paper pack ($5.95 value, while supplies last). Use the code KISS at checkout. Please note that the $25 purchase is before applicable tax or shipping. To activate the discount, you will add $25 or more in products of your choice to your cart, then add a chocolate kiss paper pack to your cart. At checkout, please enter code and $5.95 will be deducted from your total.

OR

Spend $55 and get a FREE regular-sized stamp set of your choice ($15.95 value). Use the code FREESET at checkout. Please note that the $55 purchase is before applicable tax or shipping (free shipping within the US for orders of $55 or more). To activate the discount, you will add $55 or more in products of your choice to your cart, then add any stamp set priced at $15.95 to your cart. At checkout, please enter code and $15.95 will be deducted from your total.

A Few of My Favorite Things

Today's My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club challenge is definitely my favorite so far: base a project on the lyrics to "My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music.  I'm going to say it loud and say it proud: I LOVE THE SOUND OF MUSIC!  It was such a 'gather 'round the TV' moment each year when I was growing up and The Sound of Music would come on; one of the few shows that my mother, my sister (who is 10 years older than me), and I would all watch together.  I know the entire soundtrack backwards and forwards, and have been known to break out in one or another of those wonderful songs appropos of nothing, to the great chagrin of my children.  In fact, I love The Sound of Music so much, "Maria" was on my shortlist of names for potential daughters.  One more reason to love The Sound of Music: can you think of another musical that uses the term 'flibbertigibbet' in a song?  Me neither.

I have several lyrics that have inspired my project today:

-- warm woolen mittens,

-- snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes, and

-- silver white winters that melt into spring.

So here's my tribute to the Von Trapp Family Singers:

I made a little snow globe card using my sweet friend Libby's tutorial that you can find in the resource section on Splitcoast.  Snow globes are one of my personal favorite things, but I also tend to think of them as deadly weapons now, after having seen Unfaithful.  But nevermind that...  Here's a look at the inside of the card:

I used the new Pure Innocence - Wyatt - Just Chillin' set (which appears to be sold out at the moment but I'm sure will be back in stock shortly); isn't he a cutie full of charm?  The snowflake I stamped in Opague White Staz-On ink onto the acetate 'globe' part is from the Snowflake Flopsey set.  I also used a couple of Die-namics: the Small Scallop Border for the trim on the front, and the Polka Dots Greeting Frame die for the note panel on the interior.  Wyatt and his frosty friend were colored with Copics and highlighted with Stardust Stickles.  The patterned paper is "Flurry" from Echo Park's Wintertime line.

This really is a fun challenge; I hope you'll play along!  Just take a look at the lyrics and I know you'll get inspired.  For some amazing examples, be sure to check Kim's blog after 11 a.m. EST today for links to the other MFT designers playing along in this weeks challenge.  When you upload your project to your Splitcoast gallery, be sure to use the keyword MFTWSC11172010 to be eligible to win a $15 voucher to the MFT boutique. 

I'm sure you're just dying to know what my favorite Sound of Music song is, aren't you?  Well, since you asked nicely...

Ode lay hee, ode lay hee hee...

 

Cooking Up Some Love

We've made it through half the week!  Hurray!  Give yourself a pat on the back. 

It's said that Wednesday's child is full of woe, but I'm not buying it.  For one thing: my son, Truman, was born on a Wednesday, and that kid leads the good life.  For another thing: Wednesday = My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club.  Take that, dumb nursery rhyme! 

This fine Wednesday brings you a new WSC challenge: Cooking Up Some Love! -- create a project with a cooking, kitchen or food theme.  I combined my sample with yesterday's Splitcoast color challenge (Poppy Red, Tempting Turquoise, White, and neutrals of choice).  Here's what I came up with:

At long last, I inked up Who's That Girl? - Lovin' From the Oven.  I love this image.  I also pulled out one of my newest Die-namics -- the Little Open Scallop Strip.  I wrapped and tied some Divine Twine, added a few brads along the bottom, and wa-la! 

Do you like that sentiment?  I came up with it -- pretty cute, huh?  Every once in a while, Kim sends me an image to brainstorm sentiments for.  She hasn't done it in a while, though.  She should get back in that habit, don't you think?  Feel free to send her an email or leave a comment on her blog to that effect.  But don't tell her it was my idea; let's let her think you were moved to do that on your own. Just saunter nonchalantly on over to her blog after 11 a.m. EST when she'll be posting the list of all the designers participating in today's challenge.  Then say "Hey, Kim!  What a great challenge this week!  By the way, you should really consider having Carole write more sentiments.  She's got such a way with words.  And is so pretty, too.  I just love her."  Or something like that...

Then you need to play along with us, and upload your projet to your Splitcoast gallery using the keyword MFTWSC11102010 for a chance to win a voucher worth 15 clams on the MFT website.

So, wanna see something I didn't expect?

A CAST!!!  Can you believe it?!  Me neither.  As my orthopedist looked over the MRIs yesterday, he informed me that I had an "impressive" stress fracture of the calcaneus (heel bone) and that if I didn't let it mend, it was {this} close to breaking.  Which would mean a future of surgeries, steel pins, etc.  A few minutes later, he was wrapping me in a cast.  At least it's not boring white plaster.  As I was picked what color I wanted, I said, "Oooh!  I want that colorful one!  It'll go with everything!"  His response?  "Actually, it'll go with nothing!"  It was pretty funny.

Anyway, I've got this baby and crutches for at least two weeks.  If there's improvement, then I get to go back to the big boot then.  I'll keep you posted.

Have a wonderful Wednesday, peeps!

These Boots are Made for Hobbling

Morning, Glories!  Long time know see.  I could tell you everything that's been going on in my life over the past couple of weeks and why I've been ignoring both my stamping and my loyal, devoted, highly intelligent, incredibly attractive readers, but I don't want to relive the trauma.  It's still too raw.  Suffice it to say, life has treated me like a dishrag: drenching me in scalding hot water, scrubbing dried oatmeal and burnt bacon grease off several dozen pots and pans, and then wringing every last drop out of me until I'm shriveled and threadbare. 

But enough about me!  Let's talk about this week's My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club Challenge.  It's the first of the month, so you know what that means: Sketch Challenge!  This month, Frances has come up with a fun, versatile sketch sure to spark your creativity.  Here's what I came up with...

Don't you love her?  I used MFT's Candy Cane Kisses a la mode (illustrated by MY NEICE, Amanda Baird :) ) and colored her in mostly with Prismacolor pencils (all but her skin, which I fleshed out -- get it?  'fleshed out'... I still got it! -- using my trusty Copics).  This little trio of stars embellishing the oval layers are some Making Memories chip-board buttons that I've had in my stash forever.  They're tied off with Cherry Divine Twine from The Cat's Pajamas.  For a little texture and winter flair, I embossed the Aqua Mist cardstock with my Cuttlebug Snowflakes embossing folder, then ran over the bumpy parts (that's a technical term) with a Vintage Cream ink pad.  I gave the Candy Cane a coating of Glossy Accents to make it nice and shiny.

Take a look at her kicky boots.  You like those?  Me too.  But I won't be wearing any like that for a while.  Instead, I'm in something much more feminine and fashionable these days.  Check it out...

Fancy, huh?  Kinda puts a damper on my marathon training.  Last week, my ankles were a bit sore, but I thought I was just getting used to running in my Vibram Five Fingers.  On Saturday, I ran the Tulsa Run, a 15 K race.  I could feel a twinge in my left foot from the get-go, but I kept going.  About mid-way, through, something happened.  But there I was -- stuck in the middle of a race with thousands of people all around me and only one way to find Sean (who was also running the race), which was to get to the finish line.  It hurt just as much to walk as it did to run, and running got me there quicker, so I finished the race.  Within a couple of minutes after finishing, I couldn't put any weight on my foot without excruciating pain.  We went straight to Urgent Care and had X-rays taken, but they didn't reveal much.  On Monday, I went to a sports med. orthopedist, and he thinks I probably have a stress fracture and maybe some tendon damage.  I have MRIs scheduled for this Friday, and a follow-up appointment next week so I should learn definitively what's going on. 

Between me, Carter, and Gretel (our basically three-legged German Shepherd), over half our household has serious mobility issues.  At least I've gotten some flowers out of the deal -- can't remember the last time my hubby sent me flowers when I didn't have a birthday, anniversary, or wasn't giving birth.  I used to always want to have crutches when I was a kid, and this has given me an opportunity to get that desire completely out of my system.  So there are a couple of positives associated with the situation.  Gotta look on the brightside...

Speaking of bright, there are few people in the world brighter than my dear friend Kim, also known as the MFT Lady.  Why not hobble on over to her blog with me right now to see which of the other MFT Challenge and Creative Team designers have samples to share?  It'll take our minds off our pain & suffering.  Plus, if you play along in the challenge?  You'll be eligible for our weekly Wednesday Stamp Club drawing for a $15 MFT voucher!  All you have to do is upload your creation to your Splitcoast gallery using the keyword MFTWSC11032010.  Piece o' cake!

Now, I must leave you.  But here's a little more silver lining to my current predicament before I go: now that my two big papers for the semester are done and my marathon training is on hold, I have more time to stamp!  I'll be back sooner than later. 

BCNYA!

Supplies Used -- Stamps: Candy Cane Kisses a la mode by My Favorite Things; Paper: Aqua Mist & Hawaiian Shores by PTI, Natural White by Neenah, Cosmo Cricket Jolly by Golly 6" x 6" pad; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Adirondack Earthtones Red Pepper, PTI Vintage Cream; Accessories: Nestablities ovals, Prismacolor pencils, Copic Markers, Glossy Accents, Cuttlebug Snowflakes embossing folder, Making Memories Chipboard buttons, Cherry Divine Twine from The Cat's Pajamas, gingham ribbon, red brads, SU! dimensionals.

It's In the Bag!

Hello, hello!  Happy Hump Day, buttercups!  It's Wednesday, which means it's time for My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club Challenge.  Today's challenge is a fun one that will also come in handy: It's In the Bag!  Decorate a gift sack or treat bag. Think Halloween, Christmas or Birthday.  One can never have too many gift bags, can she?

I've got a friend with a birthday coming up, so I decided to make my sack birthday-themed.  I started with a plain kraft bag that I was given at some shop or another.  I measured out how big the face of it was (5" x 8"), and decided to just treat it like a large card front.  Here's what I came up with:

I used the adorable new Pure Innocence - Something Special Just For You image.  Isn't she precious?

Here's a closeup of the bottom portion:

I used the Jumbo Scallop Die-namic and the stamped the sentiment onto a mossy green piece of cardstock that had been cut with the Framed Greeting Die-namic.

Be sure to visit Kim's blog around 11 a.m. EST today for a full list of designers participating in this week's challenge.  Check 'em out, and get inspired.  Then, come play with us!  Show us how you can transform an ordinary sack into present-worthy packaging.  Then, post your creation to your Splitcoaststampers gallery, being sure to use this week's keyword -- MFTWSC102010 -- so that you'll be eligible to win the $15 MFT boutique voucher.  I can't wait to see what you come up with!

Wednesday Stamp Club: For the Boys!

Hi, friends.  Long time no see, huh?  Life has gotten mucho hectic around the Burragio.  Between midterms¹, campaign season², marathon training³, competitive soccer⁴, horseback riding⁵, and therapy⁶ -- not to mention the various and sundry household duties that don't seem to lessen even when it would be highly convenient for them to do so -- stamping time has been hard to come by.  Yeah, yeah, yeah.  We're ALL busy, I know.  I'm not whining or making excuses.  Just sayin'.  I don't expect things to let up until after the holidays.  It's that time of year.  Still, I wouldn't have it any other way.  I like being busy and I'm of the firm belief that these are the years I'm going to look back on someday and long for, when we were a {relatively} young, bustling family with both boys at home...

Speaking of boys, let me tell you about today's My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club challenge: It's All About the Boys! - Masculine or Boy themed projects. (SCS Keyword MFTWSC10132010)

Here's what I came up with:

A lil' Boomer Sooner!  I used the Pure Innocence MVP set to create this homage to OU quarterback Landry Jones. (As a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan, I just love that name, 'Landry.'  Landry is also the name of my favorite character on Friday Night Lights.  Do you watch that show?  If not, you need to Netflix it and catch up.  It's great -- one of the few shows that Sean, Truman and I enjoy watching together.  But I digress...)  With the Sooners currently 5-0 and ranked 6th in the nation, Landry's having a pretty good season thus far.  I'm sure, however, being featured on one of my cards will be the highlight of his football career.  Savor the moment, Landry. ;)

I used Jen's Sketch For You To Try from this past weekend.  I created the background paper using a digital image I found on the web, minimizing it, and then pasting it repeatedly in Word before printing it out on cardstock.  I'm sure it's a violation of some sort of copyright law, but I'm not selling it and I'll say I'm using it for educational purposes if anyone asks.  (I have friends in OU's legal counsel office, so hopefully I'll get a pass. :) ) Landry's jersey number was created by heat embossing numbers from the Banner Day Alphabet. The grass at wee Landry's feet was created using the Fresh Cut Grass Die-Namic and felt from the Earth Girl collection.

Come play along with us this week!  For those of you that partcipate, here's a Very Important Announcement: please upload your project to Splitcoaststampers.com using keyword--MFTWSC10132010 in order to be eligible to win MFT cash. And, as always, please hop over to Kim's blog around 11am today for a list of the WSC Challenge Team participants.

I'd better scoot -- miles to go before I sleep and all that.  Have a great day!

1 - I started a MS in Counseling Psychology this fall and am taking two classes.  On Monday night I had a midterm that lasted 2.5 hours.  To say that my brain was fried afterward would be an understatement.

2 - Fortunately, Sean does not have an opponent this campaign cycle, but he is helping out with several of his friends' campaigns and thus away from home more than usual these days.  Which means Mama has to take up the slack.

3 - I'm in training for the 2011 Disney Marathon.  I know, it's crazy.  But that's what happens when you share a bottle of wine after your kid's 6th birthday party with a couple of friends who run.  You've been warned.

4 - Truman is now playing competitive soccer in a league about 20 miles from home which practices at least twice a week, and has games and tournaments all over kingdom come.  Well, at least when compared to the days of the rec league here in town, when all of his games and practices were at the soccer fields about a mile from our house.

5 - Carter's therapeutic horseback riding program has started back up again. It runs from September - May and is such a wonderful activity for him that he loves and looks forward to.

6 - Carter has physical and occupational therapies in Tulsa (about 25 miles away) twice a week.

Let's Play Dress Up!

That's today's My Favorite Things' Wednesday Stamp Club Challenge: Let's Play Dress Up!  Create a card or project featuring someone dressing up.  Think dressed up for Halloween, dressed up for a night on the town, or just playing dress up.

I was so excited to see this challenge because it gives me the opportunity to use an image I fell in love with at first sight, but never got around to using: the oh-so-ADORABLE Little Loveosaurus:

Isn't he just the sweetest?  My little guy, Carter, is a costume LOVER and would eat broccoli to have a get-up like the lil dude in this image.  I decided to make a birthday card instead of going Halloween with this challenge because I'm forever in need of birthday cards for little boys.  See that yummy green cardstock?  It's MFT's own Gumdrop Green, which is my favorite (and green is my favorite color, so that's bigger than the average endorsement from moi).  I used this week's Mojo Monday sketch, and colored him in with Copics.  I wanted the Loveosaurus's skin to look a little mottled and scaly, so after I got him all colored, I dabbed at him with my Copic colorless blender pen.  The furry ribbon is from one of Miss Jody's famous ribbon shares. 

Speaking of playing dress up, I have a picture I just have to share with you.  You've heard me mention our friends, Brad & Kristi, before.  Well, Carter and Uncle Brad are best friends, and they both have a thing about Iron Man.  They like to watch it together (I'm sure they'll be getting together any day now to watch Iron Man 2 since it came out on DVD yesterday), they like to play with Carter's Iron Man helmet and laser-hand thingy, they like to wear Iron Man tee-shirts, etc.  Look what Uncle Brad & Kristi gave Carter for his birthday:

An Iron Man War Machine costume!  Isn't a costume a great gift to encourage imaginative play?  I honestly had never thought of that before.  Needless to say, Carter spends a lot of time shooting me with faux lasers...

Head on over to MFT Lady Kim's blog to find links to all of the MFT Challenge Team and Design Team members participating in this week's challenge.  You're sure to find lots of sweet and/or spooky inspiration!  Kim also has all the details about how to play along and possibly win a $15 dollar voucher to the MFT boutique. 

Now, if you'll excuse me, I must study for my first quiz of the semester which is tonight.  Wish me luck!  Can't wait to get it behind me, especially since afterwards I have Drunko Bunco with my girlfriends.  Let the Wild Rumpus start!

Later days, Wild Things!