Happy Blog-aversary to me! GIVEAWAY!Sketch, and a tutorial! WOW
Mar 15, 2008WOW! It is so hard to believe I have been blogging a year! TIME FLEW BY!
I never thought “I” would have a blog, let alone one people would actually VISIT!!!
I have come to get to know SO MANY of you, and you have read my babble on who knows what, for however long. You share with me and make me laugh and sometimes cry. Its just an amazing craft to be a part of, and stamper’s are the most amazing and giving/friendly people. You are all also so very supportive-so I thank you!
I want to celebrate my time here with you by giving back. Why? Because of of you totally make my day by checking in and even sometimes commenting, and sharing 
That means MYTIME MAIL!!!!!
In this package the Random.org winner will be drawn on Monday. Its a value of over $50!
This will make Monday a happy day for someone ( I hate Monday’s). I put together a package of some of my favorite things.
The winner will receive the following-
My Papertrey Party Pocket set filled with 6 different Studio G stamp sets.
Current issue of Paper Crafts April/May 08. I have a project using Beautiful Blooms on page 68!!!
A acrylic set by Inkadinkadoo-has sentiments, flourishes and butterflies!!! SO ME!!!
A Stampin’Up! Accent’s and Elements kit
AND an SEI complete card kit! (I love SEI!!!)
All you have to do is leave me a comment. Tell me why you visit ME here. What you like or take away, if anything. OR what you want me to do in the future! Make it a better place to come to visit.
If you do the sketch that lets you enter AGAIN!!!!!
Remember you have till Monday!
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Now it’s Saturday Sketch time-and a tutorial! WOW! A lot in ONE day huh?
What did you think of the PTI release? WOW! Huh?
Did you check out all the gallery of amazing ideas put together by the Design Team? Check in the March 08 Release!
In case you missed this one:
Here is the Sketch-Since Im doing a tutorial on the umbrella-it would be really cool if you could try it. If not just use the sketch. It still qualifies for ANOTHER entry, if done by Monday morning
If you try it please leave another link in the comments section.
I wanted to share with you how I made this card, for the Papertrey Ink release today!
NOTE: I will share a different project each day till they are done, along with whatever else I have to share.
Shower of LOVE
I was inspired to create this by the sentiment, and the top decoration of the label! Plus I LOVED that patterned paper, and needed to showcase how nice it is!
SUPPLIES:
This is a cute shower card or invitation for baby or bride, using our pretty patterned paper as your umbrella!Stamps- Boxes, Bags & Tags, Favor It Weddingscardstock- PTI select white, Berry Sorbet, Sweet Blush
Patterned Paper-Pink Pattern Collection
Ink-PTI Palette in Berry Sorbet, Sweet Blush
Ribbon-PTI blush twill
other- wire, oval coluzzel, sm. oval punch, 1 3/8 circle punch, scallop punch, swiss dots embossing folder by provocraft
DIRECTIONS! Click to enlarge photos
You want to choose your paper first. Then decide if you want to use a round cutting template, or an oval. Either will work. The sample card at the top uses the circle, the sample card at the bottom uses the oval. I used a Coluzzel cutting template for these.
Follow same directions for either shape.
1) Cut three 1/2 circles or ovals
2) Take the 2 paper’s which will be your sides, and place them patterns facing together. You have to trim them together so the side panels of the umbrella will be EVEN!
Trim into a crescent shape, leaving points in the middle
3) Adhere the panels to the main umbrella base. Now use your SMALL oval punch, and slide bottom middle into punch.
You will hardly see the end corner’s of the side pieces. PUNCH.
4) Now the edge pieces. Put your side in. You will put the piece in until you see the corner of the center piece. PUNCH.
Do this for both sides
This is what it will look like-after punching
Now here is the finished card!
I used the new Simple Alphabet to create my sentiment.
This used Papertrey Ink Green Thumb, Simple alphabet, Everyday Blessings Patterned paper, Polka Dot ribbon in Spring Moss, PTI Select white, Spring Moss & Aquamist ink/cardstock, Polka Dot embossing folder, wire, coluzzel.
Well that is ALL!! I hope you enjoyed the tutorial and find time to give it a try.
I still have my guest designer stuff to show you-I SWEAR that will be tomorrow!!! I want to give it the proper attention!!!
It’s been a insane week here. I have so much still to do. I forgot this week is EASTER party stuff for the kids!! Now I gotta get cracking on some deadlines and get that stuff done too!
WHERE is March going? WOW! Time is whipping past me.
Once again, thank you so much for the support and checking in here.
Till tomorrow!
743 Responses for "Happy Blog-aversary to me! GIVEAWAY!Sketch, and a tutorial! WOW"
I visit your blog for inspiration, of course! I love PTI stamps and the new paper, and am always looking for new ways to use them, like the ideas you’ve been sharing.
I know that number 1 will never be picked but I don’t visit your blog for “stuff”. I visit because you update BEYOND regularly, your projects are amazing and I love your chattiness! I feel like I know you. I appreciate ALL that you’ve shared this last year and I love how generous you are with your templates and instructions on how to re-create all your wonderful projects. Congrats on the anniversary!
I love your umbrellas!! I visit because you are just full of awesome ideas!!!! And you just keep them coming!!! THANK YOU!!!!
wow! this is a fantastic giveaway! I visit because you have the most innovative ideas: this umbrella from the oval punch? Whoda thunk? The doggie fire hydrant? clever…the baby onesie? Out of this world. Bang up stamping, that’s what you do!
I visit because I love the abundance of your creativity, your excitement for your craft, and the love that comes through your ramblings about your family. I don’t comment much, but a year of blogging and a anniversary is a great time to say congrats, and thanks for inspiring me.
Why do I visit your blog? Because it is refreshingly FUN!!! I love to hear your stories….the mouse one cracked me up (although I know it made you stress out). I will have to email you my mouse stories…..then you can crack up at me!!!
Your projects are so FABULOUS!!! I am not saying this because I want to win your blog candy, but please know that for a ton of us stampers, you are OUR stamping muse. I look forward to each and every post because I know it will be something that will make my jaw drop.
I hope you have a great weekend!!! I’m off to shop for some well fitting jeans with my friend, my daughter and her daughter. I’ll see you in a month….LOL!!!
I am always touched at your positive outlook on everything.
Your limitless creativity is always an inspiration!
Congratulations on your anniversary!
Lauren I come to your blog for inspiration…I figure if you have 2 kids, 1 hubby, 1 dog and still make time to stamp SO CAN I. I also love the tutorials…I love how you explain everything step by step!!!
You are one of the first I read everyday..Feel like family. Love your puppy and her antics! She is adorable. You are sooo creative…and make your tutorials so clear..Keep those up please.
Jan W.
I visit because I am simply amazed by your talent and creativity! You are very inspiring, not only in the craft of stamping, but also in your thoughts about life in general. I love to hear about your family, and all of your little tips about life in general! You should be so proud of what you have accomplished, Lauren! I am glad that I stumbled upon your blog and how have you as a PSF! Best Wishes for many more years of blogging and whatever else comes your way!
How do I answer that. Let me see. You have the most creative ideas I’ve ever seen. They’re just pure genius…things I NEVER think of to do until I see your creations. I ALWAYS star your entries so I can go back again and again. Of course, your stories are always a blessing too…congrats…and please, please, please keep up the awesome work.
Hi Lauren,
I found your blog several months ago and (ok, I admit) I usually visit every or every other day. 1. I love the fact that you do update daily - its impressive because you are a busy mom, 2. You have a great style that I love, 3. Your willingness to share your great ideas with tutorials is awesome (that’s how I found your blog - was by browsing for tutorials) 4. and finally, I do enjoy reading about those personal tidbits here and there.
-Katie
Happy Blog-a-versary! Lauren, I visit your site for inspiration, the great tutorials and to improve my stamping by seeing what you do! Your positive attitude and super outlook on life always lifts me up! Thanks and congrats!!!
wow! That umbrella is awesome! What I love about your projects is that they are so unique. All I ever make are standard A2 cards. But you- a card shaped like a fire hydrant!!! How do you come up nwith this stuff?!!! You inspire me to try new things. And I love when you use you SU stamps
I visit your blog because I love to see the wonderful and creative things you make and are so generous to “share” with us.
i visit your blog because of there is endless inspiration here!!! and your posts are real, they make me feels right at home
Oh Lauren This candy is delightful!!! You’d think since I’m a SU Demo that I’d have one of those accent and elements kits, but I don’t!!! I LOVE visiting your blog! I think You are So incredibly talented and I love your tutorials too! I have linked to you so many times, its wonderful!!! Your style is fresh! I love all your little side stories too!
I visit your blog everyday because you have such lovely ideas and I love the way you write and describe them. Your stories are so uplifting and inspiring and I love that you update so often. You never seem to run out of ideas. TFS your work.
Hi: I visit your blog daily…(I actually have it set up on google reader), I enjoy reading your entries and your work inspires me…thanks for sharing!
Hi Lauren!
I visit ‘cuz you’re a constant source of inspiration - but thanx for the t’riffic blog opportunity as well! Time’ll tell whether I get to the challenge, but it’s a cutie!
later, alligator!
- SueB of sueblondin.blogspot.com
Holy moly girl! That is a LOT of stuff you are giving away! It will make some lucky person VERY happy! Really you don’t need to enter me in the draw….you have given me so much already! Besides I KNOW how much it costs to ship stuff out of the country….rofl!
Ok the sketch looks AWESOME and I REALLY want to try your umbrella card and you had me UNTIL I have to cut a cresent shape…girl I can’t do that…haha…OK I know what you are going to say….so I’ll TRY it!
These new products from PTI look fab! I wish I could order them ALL but shipping costs almost as much as the product….lol
Have a FAB day girl! Be back a little later with a sketch card
What a wonderful giveaway! Congrats on your blog-aversary!! I love visiting your blog to hear about your kiddos and to see your beautiful creations.
Hi Lauren! I love visiting your blog to see your gorgeous creations! Thank you for sharing them with us! I also like that you share about your life so we can get to know you! I love your exhuberant personality, your openness and of course you’re amazing talent!
I visit your site because I know I can expect to see great things. You are so talented and inspirational. I also enjoy your stories. I don’t want to miss anything you create.
Congrats on one year! *Ü* I visit your blog daily and am ALWAYS inspired by what you have posted. I absolutely love your style. I want to be just like you when I grow up! LOL! Thanks for sharing your goodies with us and most importantly thanks for sharing your amazing talent!
I just love coming to see your great creations and love seeing all the newest trends you use! Thanks for the fab site.
I read your blog for several reasons.
As a PSF, to keep up on Alexa.
Because I enjoy reading about Noah (congrats on a new room) and Amber; Daisy too.
For many creative ideas — to see how they are born.
For the beauty of the designs.
For enabling.
For hopes to receive some of your ENERGY by osmosis.
Thanks, Lauren, for who you are and your inspiration to us all.
I visit because you share so much of yourself and you are the perfect “cyber” friend! I love your ideas–you are so creative! I even stopped by Michaels and got some of those wedding flowers you told us about! They ARE great!! It’s a breath of fresh air coming here daily! Keep it up!!!
The blog candy looks so yummy! Congratulations! I’ve just recently discovered your blog but had to add it to my list of “must check”s because I love your style!
And thank you for the tutorial on how to make umbrellas!!! I’ve been wanting to make one and thinking it shouldn’t be too hard (since I do not have a stamp of one) but I just haven’t gotten around to working up a template or figuring out how I should do it. So thank you! Keep the great tutorials coming!!!
for inspiration, definitely why i visit…happy blogiversary
Great, great, great! Your blog is great…your My Time mail is great…your talent is great! Thanks for sharing with us!
I check your blog every day…well, because you are “stinkin” AWESOME! I love your creative ideas and case a lot of them! Also I love your updates on family and other randomness…you are so down to earth! LOVE YA!
This blog is my daily inspiration. I love your use of stamps…I love that it’s not just cards & I love that you share patterns..what more can I say, I look forward to your post every day in my mail!
You are the best at giving us very creative ideas with great detailed instructions. Thank you for that.
Happy Blogaversary to you!
Gaby
That umbrella is awesome, so very creative! TFS!!!
Lauren your blog is the first one I check each day, in fact, I have been back twice today to see what new and exciting and inspiring art you have to share…thanks so much and continued success in your artistic endeavours…Rebecca
i love how contemporary and fun your creations are!
just wish i had your budget!
Happy Blogaversary!
Oh wow! How cute! I love all the great tutorials that you do and all the great ideas you share! Keep it up!
Thanks for the chance to win!
Happy Blogaversary, Lauren!!!!
I visit b/c your artwork is simply beautiful… not too elaborate and “out there” showing that a normal person (like ME) could do it. You are totally inspiring to me and I”m sure to many, many others as well. Thank you for that!!!!
~Lana B~
I stumbled across your blog one day and absolutely love it! I subscribed using Bloglines straight away so always know the minute you update. Love your work!
Hey Lauren,
I love your blog and have it listed in my Google Reader “favorites” file. I visit daily in hopes that just a little of your unique creativity will rub off on me. Your wonderful upbeat journaling and fabulous tutorials are inspiring beyond belief.
Big >HUGS
What a fun tutorial. I visit your site for how you get my creative juices flowing. This one is a pretty example. I’m seeing “A friend in all kind of weather” and so funny I was thinking about the Wellies before I even got to the last card.
I’m also inspired by your honesty in dealing with life and all the challenges it has brought you. Congratulations on this first of many years to come.
Now off to do the challenge.
Why do I visit your blog? I could list a million reasons, but I guess it’s just because your projects inspire me! I often completely CASE what you’ve made (sorry, it’s true!) because I *heart* your style. Even when I don’t, your projects and color combos are a springboard for me. You truly are an artist! Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing it with all of us!
I visit daily (have you on google reader) because your cards and gift items are just beautiful and so inspiring. I also love reading all the everyday family stuff you share. I’m amazed at how strong a person you must be with all the challenges you face with Alexa’s illness. Thanks for all you share.
Lauren, Happy Anniversary! I check your blog every day. I love your simple style. Your projects are always so fresh looking. In the future, I would really like it if you keep doing your tutorials and if you find great new products, share where they can be ordered or found. Thanks for the chance to win some yummy candy!
Your blog is the first one I check every morning. I always check a couple more times during the day because you are soooo very faithful in adding stuff daily & sometimes more than once a day! You inspire me daily! Your ideas are wonderful! When I look at the picture (before I read) I think “There’s no way I can do that.” But your instructions are sooo easy to follow! I also check in daily to check on Alexa. She is the reason, after all, that we even have the PSFs. She’s the reason we have all made such wonderful friendships here. Thank you for sharing your life with us!!
I visit your blog EVERY day! Sometimes I can’t wait for my email saying you’ve posted something new so I click on an old one in hopes that you’ve already updated your blog!
Your ideas amaze me! Congrats on your one year of blogging! Thank you for sharing your amazing talents!
Lauren - you are so talented, I love visiting your blog for inspiration. Congrats on the 1 year blogaversary!!
Wow this is a great giveaway!! I visit your blog to see all the cool projects that you come up with. I love doing things other than cards and your ideas are just so great! Thanks for the chance to win!
Hi Lauren,
I visit to see your beautiful work. You have a broad range of “stamping style”, too!
ariana
Congrats on a wonderful year of blogging. You have certainly enriched my life. I enjoy reading your tutorials, altered projects, cards, and your life in general. I have even felt your pain!!! Continue doing what you are doing and may this next year be filled with many more great projects and a healthy family!
Cheryl Sims
OMGosh, those umbrella cards are so awesome! I love the texture and dimension, I just want to touch them!
Why do I like your blog? Hmmmm, how many lines are we allowed in a comment?…
First, your creativity is awesome, your work is real eye candy and never fail to bring a smile (or a jaw drop also!
). It is a pleasure to just look at what you do!
Second, your personality is awesome too! You make my day so often. You’re funny, upbeat, driven, and spontaneous and genuine (2 big qualities in my book). And you have a big heart and are compassionate.
Seeing what you had to go through and the mindset you manage to keep is an inspiration! You make me believe that everything is possible if you believe in it and give it your best.
You know in this “stamping crowd” (the bloggers & the stamps makers) I’ve “met” (”virtually” I mean!
) different kind of people.
Some I like their work but not so much their personality (I find them pretentious), some I like their personality a lot but I’m not a big fan of their work (or we just have different styles), and some precious people just have it all, LOL
Of course you got it, YOU have it all!!…
You’re the perfect package. This sure makes for an enjoyable experience visiting your blog! 
This is one of my everyday staple! Don’t change a thing… or maybe hire a cleaning lady so you have more time for blogging… 
Love & Hugs!♥
I love your blog and your creations, it’s such an inspiration.
and you sharing them 
Thank you for all the creations
Happy Blog-aversary! I love to visit your blog because you are connected with PaperTrey and all of the diesgners give such fabulous ideas! Keep them coming!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog. I always save yours till last to look because I know it will be amazing everyday, your creativity is inspiring. I also love the tutorials that help me as a visual learner try to create as you do. Also last but most definatly not least we both have a “special angel” child.
Happy Blog-aversary!!! I just love visiting your blog because you have such wonderful works of art that you share! I love to soak up all that and just be inspired by your creativity!!!
Lauren, I stop by because you brighten my day. You always have something positive to say, you obviously *love* paper crafting, and you make wonderful projects nonstop. Thanks - I’m so glad you blog!
Hi Lauren, I visit your blog because it’s one of the best online. Your ideas are wonderful and your talent shows in all you do. The umbrella card is awesome. Congratulations on your blog anniversary.
Happy Blog-aversary, Lauren! I visit your blog daily for the inspiration! You have so much creativity & great ideas. I’m amazed at some of the things you come up with & wish my brain worked that way! The onesie card is one of my favorites. Thanks so much for sharing all of your ideas with us.
I enjoy your blog because you’re so generous with your ideas and you are so creative. I always take away a new way of looking at something. You expand my thinking. Thanks for sharing your life and your talent.
I visit first because you are one of the hardest working ladies on the planet! You inspire me by your great attitude, no matter what happens to you! I think you are just super, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE your designs! You are SOOOO creative, and come up with the neatest stuff ever! And you share everything, you are so generous and giving….I LOVE Your blog, and wish I could meet you!
Great new projects today, by the way, just awesome!!!
I found your blog just a month or so ago through PTI. I subscribe to it now because I love the inspiration I find here.
Lauren,
I feel like I know you from sharing all the stories. You are an amazing person. Every day I learn something from you whether its stamping or just every day living. I look forward to reading your blog each day! Happy Anniversary!!
Bev
(Rette Mom)
I love checking your blog everyday to find more inspiration! Love it!!!
I love all your creative ideas. I check your blog everyday for inspirations and for ideas on supplies I might need!
YOU, me and my cup ‘o morning coffee have been a routine daily occurrence for a very, very long time now (even though YOU didn’t know it Ü).
I can’t begin to tell you how much you inspire me to “push the envelope”, “think outside of the box”…..and having such an incredibly talented artist freely share her creations with everyone is truly a blessing I am ever so grateful for!
THANK YOU, Lauren! Thank you for your time, effort and sacrifice it must take to keep us all coming back day after day. Love the personal flare you add to your blog (cutie kid updates & adorable Daisy Ü) along with the fantastic stamping/creating.
Don’t change a thing Ü
HUGS,
Tracy *Ü*
Happy “Blogaversary” Lauren! I love to visit your blog almost daily because, even though you are like a famous CELEBRITY to me, you are so genuine and truly friendly!!! I have emailed you a couple of times (about coffee stamps and our beloved Keurig brewer!) and you answered me even though it was unexpected!!! It is awesome seeing your name in magazines such as Cards and Papercrafts. It’s like recognizing the accomplishment of a true friend. OK, I’ll stop “gushing” now, and oh yeah, I HOPE I WIN!!!!!!!
i absolutely love your blog! you crack me up - i am a dental assistant and love reading about your dental horrors! your blog is such an inspiration to me as a stamper. your ideas are amazing
Hi and congrats on your Blog-aversary! I love coming to your site because I need color inspiration for my cards. I like what you come up with and it helps get me rolling when I’m making cards. I’d love to see more card designs for men. All in all you have an awesome site! Lyndsay
Hey Girl,
I come by every day because you’re my PSF and I gotta keep up with what’s going on in your life! Miss Alexa started this whole thing!
The inspiration here is an added bonus!! These cards are adorable!
Congrats on your blogiversary!! Hope you have a great weekend!
Hi Lauren,
I just recently started getting your blog about a month ago and I love how many awesome ideas you share with us. Your creations are so inspiring. Congratulations on your anniversary!!!! I can’t wait to see what other wonderful ideas you come up with. Thank you so much!
CONGRATULATIONS, LAUREN!! What a generous birthday present…can’t wait for my PTI paper so I can use those yummy colors. Love the tutorial too. Both cards are simply adorable. Continued blessings to you!
I visit your blog when I feel my creativity has his a roadblock. You know how when you look at beautiful things it gets your creative juices flowing again. I’ll just scroll down through looking at everything and all of a sudden a brand new idea will pop into my head. Our styles are totally different, but your nack for mixing up the layouts of your cards is very inspiring to me. Also, I really enjoy reading about the things going on in your personal life with your kids etc. You really keep things real and personal. Anyway, congrats of reaching your first full year of blogging. Here’s to more good things to come!
Lauren, I’d just like to let you know just how much I love your blog. I find your style of cardmaking and papercrafting exactly what I love - it’s fresh, elegant and beautifully thought out. I almost feel as though I know you - hearing about your lovely family and the highs and lows of family life. Your attitude to life after all you have been through is so encouraging and inspirational to others like me. Thank you.
I visit you through Google reader. Your cards inspired me to start making some for other occasions than just Christmas. I really like when you also include the sketch of the card. It’s great for the inspiration without having a urge to scraplift your card in exact detail. Thanks!
I visit because I love your creative use of materials and enjoy learning about paper crafting! Thanks so much for sharing with all of us! Happy Blogiversary!!!
Too many things about your blog keep me coming back. Your incredibly versatile style, which I love and copy, (and credit!), but don’t always take the time to say THANK YOU for sharing, thank you for your inspiration!
Also amazed at how often you post. I know your hands are full, and fuller than most moms with a special needs child, and yet, you show up. Daily. You are something special!
I first saw your work on SCS…Amazing! I only recently started visiting blogs. I just bookmarked your site so I can regularly check out the projects and insight you share. Thank you for sharing your talent and your insight. Happy Blogaversary!
Hi Lauren,
Everyday I visit here and am amazed by your talent. I would love to crawl inside your brain one day and see how it works. You are sooo creative and the best time manager I ever “met”. How do you do that!?! Thanks for all you do to inspire us and for being a great mom. Happy Anniversary and many more years of sharing your life with us.
Ad
wow love this card it’s so nice to get fresh ideas for my stale brain lol TFS.
Congrats on your one yr. Keep coming up with your ideas we just really appreciate it all.
Lynn
Congrats!!! I visit not only b/c you have amazing, inspiring ideas but also b/c you share “daily life” … Thanks!
How can I list just one thing that keeps me coming back to your blog! Let’s see, I *LOVE* your uniqueness - you see things in a way like no other crafter - I like your insight. Secondly - I *LOVE* it when you tell us about great deals - I like getting things at a discount or hear about how to use things in an inexpensive way. Lastly, I *LOVE* your stories! Seriously - I usually read your blog in the mornings before I start my day and they just make me laugh! That one story last year about how you clean your house right before Jason gets home so he doesn’t think all you’ve been doing is stamping all day was so priceless!!! Most blogs I totally skip their family stuff but I enjoy hearing about yours! Keep up the fabulous work - thanks for the chance to win the blog candy!
I love coming to your blog for all the inspiration you give me. I have learned to expand my stamping by making so many of the projects that you share with us here.
Thanks!
Hi Lauren,
What awesome blog candy! I stop by your site every day now that I have found it, I come to visit because this is where I find inspiration. I love your ideas, and your stories and I love your designs. Thank you for sharing your talent with me!
Hi Lauren -
Congrats on 1 year of blogging! I visit your site several times a week and really love your awesome designs and the chattiness of the blog. I enjoy hearing about your kids, dog, what provides inspiration to you in your creations. You have a true talent in coming with sweet card designs and they are all so fun and colorful. Thanks and keep up the good work!
Each time I come to your blog I am amazed at your ideas, always a delight! Thanks for sharing - you always make me smile and say, “Oh my gosh!”.
Ilove looking through your website. It is amasing the ideas you come up with . I love the little purse in the giveaway. Love seeing pictures of daisy, she is so cute . Dianne bell
Lauren….I visit your blog first of all to see all your amazing creations. You give me lots of inspiration and secondly I love all your “ramblings” They really make me smile and make me feel I already know you! Congrats and thanks so much for the chance!!!! {SMILES}
I visit your blog for several reasons - first and foremost because you seem like a very loving and caring person! I also think you are SO unbelievably talented and, to be honest, I have loved everything you’ve made! You give so much to the readers with your personal stories and your craft! Thank YOU!!
I check your blog EVERYDAY!! I love to see what new ideas you have. I love that you share and encourage us to try new things. You personally have improved my skills just by giving the details and little tricks you do. Not to mention, I now am the proud owner of the worlds largest tape gun that I now can not live without!
Thanks for all you do and the wonderful way in which you do it! You are appreciated and loved!!
Congrats on one year of blogging! I come to your blog for the amazing projects, great stories, and your fun energy.
Can’t wait to keep visiting your blog in the year ahead!
I visit your blog daily to see your ideas but also for your stories! A few weeks after your mice story a squirrel got into our basement - I thought of you and how I would of much rather been having to catch mice! We did get a trap and caught it - It was just like a HUGE mouse!
I visit for lots of reasons. First the amazing projects you come up with, day in day out, including some really innovative stuff, it is all just beautiful. Second because you are so positive about life, you make me smile. And because as a regular visitor, and because you are so open, in a way I feel like you are part of my life - and a good part at that
Hi Lauren…Congrats on your 1st year anniversary of your blog! Well, the reason that I keep coming back on a daily basis is that you are amazing and today’s umbrella cards and tutorial are a great example of that. I can’t seem to get enough of your inspiration. Thanks for everything that you share with us.
Hi Lauren,
I visit your blog because i love to see the items you make. they are very inspiring.
keep it coming!
Ang
Lauren - I think you have the most wonderful ideas and projects. Very inspiring.
Congrats on your anniversary and thank you for the opportunity to win.
I have just been introduced to your site and WOW it is truly a designer’s dream.
I love that your work is so “pleasing to the eye” Your colors and designs just work so well together. I am reading over your archives and am truly enjoying your site. I will be a daily viewer and am looking forward to creating your ideas for my own. Now, off to the challenge!
Hi Lauren,
Happy 1st blog Anniversary! I discovered your blog when you became one of the designers for Papertrey. I was so fascinated by your blog when I first looked at it (and I still am LOL)! I spent a good part of the afternoon looking at your cards and reading your journal entries. Your rockabella guitar card is fabulous! Your creativity inspires me and I love how much you share on your blog. You are such a giving person. I don’t personally know you, but the more I visit your blog, the more I enjoy reading your everyday journal entries about yourself and your family. I also enjoy your sketches. Thanks for making this a fun place to visit.
Hi Lauren and Happy Anniversary and well done on all your hits. I visit your blog regularly for several reasons….first and foremost has to be your work, it’s amazing and so inspiring and you take the time to give tutorials …..that’s so generous of you to share your creations! Secondly, I just love the way you are so down to earth and honest and I love hearing about what’s going on in your life and seeing photos (especially the one of your son standing in dog pooh!!!)
Love your dt projects for PTI! Beautiful work, as always!
What a generous gift. I find your blog to be inspiring and helpful. Being new to papercrafts and in total awe of what all of you talented people can produce from paper, ribbons, and ink, I absolutely love tutorials and yours are fabulous. It gives me a sense of “I can do that, too.” Your cards are beautiful, your stories are interesting, amusing, inspiring, and something I think we all look forward to.
Cindy R
Hi Lauren. Congratulations on your blog’s 1st anniversary! I only recently came across your blog from PTI. I check it out every day or two because you have the most amazing and creative ideas. I’m new to stamping and I get so many ideas and inspiration from you. Thank you for everything you do! Here’s to another 50 years!!!
The umbrella idea is wonderful. I love the “under the weather” card.
Beautiful stuff! congratulations on one year!
Hi! congratulation for your first year anniversary. I’m quite new at stamping world, so I’m surfing the net searching for tips and inspiration,and you blog is full of them
hugs
chiara
Happy Blog-aversary Lauren!!! I love your blog because you are a talented woman and your blog full ideas. Thank you for the chance
Love the card - your tutorials are SO helpful!
love the card! I always come here and feel so inspired, you’re so talented! oooh and I hope I can win your giveaway
congrats on the one year
Lauren, you are so darn talented, just love the umbrellas. Congratulations on your blog’s 1st anniversary. Thanks for all the inspiration you give myself and others.
Nettie
I get so inspired by your creations. Your talent is simply amazing. I think I save a picture of everything you create!
Susie
Lauren-great blog candy and great sketch! I can’t wait to try it! I love checking your blog because I love your artwork and ideas!! You are very talented and creative!!
I visit your blog everyday because you always have the most unique and creative ideas. I am so bad at making boxes and treat holders ect. and you are quite marvelous at it , so I come here to drool over them. Your blog is full of inspiration from your beautiful family to your wonderful handmade works of art.
I stop by every day to see what fabulous creations you have made. I love the sketch challenges and it is also fun to see what you are doing with PTI new materials! You make my day!
Why do I come here everyday?
“Cuz you’re my friend, my buddy, my pal!
We’re psf ♥
We don’t get a chance to chit-chat often so I like to visit to see your beautiful works of art and catch up on what’s going on with you. You are such a sweet and wonderful person who’s just a pleasure to know.
Hugs!
I visit because I love to see your latest creative project and here how things are going with your family. Thanks for sharing with all of us.
Lauren,
You are one of my favorite bloggers ever! You are so generous in sharing your thoughts, ideas, creativity and, not to mention, tutorials that answer the question, “How did she DO that?!?” Your talent is a gift. Thanks for passing it on to us to see :o)
Elyse
Minnesota
I’ve recently discovered blogs (ok, I’m SO out of it!), and your’s is my FAVORITE! Because you are everything I want to be (energetic, super creative, friendly & talkative)…and we both have curly hair!
Other crafter’s blogs make me want to copy what they’ve done, buy your blog INSPIRES me to take your ideas and make them my own. Thank you for sharing your ideas, your tutorials, and your life!! Happy anniversary…please keep it up!
I check your blog for the ideas, the color combinations, and your tutorials. I like your blog just the way it is! I wouldn’t change a thing. Thanks for the time you put into it and your willingness to share your ideas. Congratulations on your Blog Anniversary and I hope you continue for many more years to come.
Hi Lauren
Happy blogaversary. I enjoy reading your blog because your very talented and it’s great to see what you come with. Thanks for sharing all your stories and projects.
Your blog is great, and your really nice when I emailed you. First time posting a comment to a blog. I first realized what you meant about the sketches being in one place. I am just missing a few and wondered if you could guide me to the dates. 1,21,22, 25 . I enjoy all your sketches, I too am a fan of splitcoast wed. sketches. But you make saturday more exciting to look forward to. I can’t wait till I can read more of your blog. Hope all is well.
I first saw your work on the PaperTrey website, and after that I was hooked and had to subscribe to your blog. Thank you for sharing your work, it is so inspiring!!
-antoinette
Happy Blogaversary, Lauren! I visit your blog every day for many reasons. The main reason is to be inspired - by your creativity, by your ability to be the best mother and wife that you can be, and by your ability to be so real in the face of all the ups and downs in your life. You are a light, Lauren - a light to everyone of us who comes in contact with your blog every day. Thank you for that! Looking forward to many more of your blogaversaries!
I visit everyday because you inspire me to try new things and go outside the box. I also feel like I’m visiting a friend everyday–I love your “talk” and how candid you are about everything. Not to mention your projects are always fun and beautiful.
I enjoy reading your blog because you are HUMAN. You add real things to the blog other than JUST the cards, etc. You share your stories, your laughter, your tears. You are real. Not only that, you share your creative talents with the rest of the world and allow us in your creativity world. Thank you for that. Please continue with that! Congratulations and happy blogiversary!
The year did go by fast Lauren. I visit your blog every day but do not always leave a comment. I visit because I love to read what you write about. You always have something interesting to say. I also love looking at all of the very creative things that you come up with like the two cards above. They are lovely! You must be doing something right with your blog so if it were me…….I would not change a thing.
Mary
I am thrilled that I get your fabulous ideas delivered to my e-mail every day! I have shared them with two Stampin’Up demonstrators, and they are as delighted as I am.
(Both have subscribed, I think).
Thanks for a wonderful year of blogging.
Keep the good ideas coming.
Sincerely,
LouAnne
I visit your blog every day for inspiration! It is my breakfast companion. =) Thanks for sharing your talent and yourself with all of us.
hello lauren,
i am soooo pleased you have posted this card my dearest friend is looking for a wellington boot stamp as her daughter is getting married this year and said she will be getting married in her wellingtons.
she is gonna love these to make the invites.
chriss x ps cards are beautiful as always and you have inspired me to use some pastel papers.
take care
xoxoxox
Hi Lauren!! I visit your blog daily, if not several times per day. I love your enthusiasm for stamping. You have great ideas, using stamps, paper, and embellishments from various companies. Fun blog, from a fun girl, I’m sure!!
Lauren, I check your blog once or twice a day. I love your blog because you update it so frequently, and you reach out to us blog-readers. (that sounds strange, but you know what I mean!) You are so inspiring and crafty! Keep on crafting! You’re great.
Happy Blog-aversary!! I come for the laughs, smiles, great stories, inspiration, tutorials, and to check in on a friend. By far this is my favorite blog to visit. Thanks for all you do and say and are!
Happy Blogaversary!!
And thanks SO much for the chance to win this amazing prize.
I visit you here because I absolutely adore your stamping style, and because I love reading updates about your family and Daisy!
Happy blogaversary! Thanks a million for sharing your amazing talent. That is a very special gift. I always find new gorgeous projects to inspire me on you blog. What a generous blog candy. Thank you, Beatrice
I visit your blog every day. You totally inspire me. I love your work. It is classy, elegant, and yet simple and always beautiful. Happy blog-iversary!
Congrats on your anniversary! Very exciting!! I love to visit your blog for your creative, out of the box ideas and projects. You always amaze us w/ your one-of-a-kind creations!! You love to create and share, which always comes through in your posts. I think for you it’s not a chore, which comes across others’ blogs sometimes….
Wow, soooo generous!! Love your blog. Very inspiring.
Happy Anniversary Lauren!!! I visit your site 1st everyday as you inspire me in so many ways. I love your stories both happy and sad, and your talent in crafting is so
impressive. I hope you keep blogging forever!!
I visit because you are an inspiration and show us some beautiful cards and have great ideas!!! And well, today, I’m here to enter your blog candy drawing! Happy blogiversary!!
I like to read your blog because you are so real and down to earth! You are so upbeat and funny that if I’m having a tough day at work when I read your blog it always makes me smile.
What would I change? NOTHING : ) Your blog is wonderful! Keep up the great work!
Thanks!
Sarah
Happy Anniversary! I visit your blog daily because you always have something creative and new. Also your posts are a joy to read. I love all of your projects! I am a cardmaker so I find the cards most useful, but I find that your 3D objects are also very inspiring. Thanks for sharing your beautiful work with all of us!
Hello Lauren, I visit everyday because I love to read what you write. You always crack me up or you have made me cry too but I feel like you are a friend to me. I also love your work and I am usually inspired and always learn something new. Congratulations on your anniversary! Congrats on your card in Papercrafts too! Take care! Stacy
Inspiration, inspiration, inspiration is what I get from your blog! You always have such wonderful eye candy. I’m definitely going to try the umbrella card (though I might not be able to get to it in time for your contest (insert pouty face). Thank you for all the sharing you do - you are soooo creative! That’s a lot of wonderful blog candy you are offering, too! Lucky the lady who wins!
Wow! Thanks for the chance to win such an amazing give away!! What do I enjoy about your blog: 1) I am always truly amazed and awed by your creativity (seeing as mine is limited to one gene!). Your projects and cards are amazing!!! 2) Love knowing a about you and your family. Makes visiting your blog more personal
3) Love the sketches since I’m not that creative, it is a great way to get the juices going. Thanks for sharing yourself and your amazing talents with all of us (((hugs)))
I visit your wonderful blog for all the inspiration you give us!!! You are sooo o talented,I’m jealous,lol! You are also a very strong person with everything you go through everyday,I love you for that!!! Congratulations on your blog anniversary!!
Wishing you so many many more!!!
Wow, it’s been a year already? I visit your blog every day for inspiration, you are one talented gal! Thanks for sharing your talent with us. Happy Blogaversary to you!
I visit your blog with each new post as I love the work you do, I like to hear how the family is and I think you are a precious person. Congrats on the success of your blog and I look forward to all your new projects and successes.
wow! this is a fantastic giveaway! Boy are you generous!
I visit because you have the most innovative ideas. And I love all of your tutorials and sketches.
I absolutely love the umbrellas you made! What fun! Thanks again for sharing your creativity!
What a great giveaway! I love your blog because you have wonderful creations…and a variety too. I love your style and love that you love PTI too. I really love this tutorial for the umbrella card!! Thanks!
WOW - who wouldn’t want to win this. The reason I visit here just about everyday, is because you think out of the box, sometimes literally
Your ideas are ingenious and you really put a lot of thought into everything you do. I appreciate you sharing with everbody, sometimes you even spark and idea in my head 
Hi! I visit your blog first everyday, before I check any other blog! I do this because you are so talented and I get so much inspiration from your creations, and because you have always been so sweet to answer questions that I have! Also, I love when you post “must haves” like those shimmery flowers from Michaels, and that sewing machine from Rite-Aid - I went out and found those right away after checking your blog! So, thank YOU for blogging!
Happy Anniversary! I am in awe of the creativity you share with us! Your work is both inspirational as well as practical! ( And I love reading about your sweet family.)
Congratulations and wishing you continued success!
Your card is gorgeous Lauren! I love visiting your blog because I always find some sort of inspiration here. Your work is so beautiful and I love just hearing about how you and your family are doing! That’s one cool RAK!!! Congrats on blogging for one year!!!
That is an amazing giveaway. I just love your blog. I am amazed by your energy and enthusiasm for all things stamping. I just love that you are so selfless and share everything that you can with others. I have gained so many ideas and techniques from reading your blog. I also love all your stories about your life and your family. I don’t think you should change a thing. Your blog is fantastic.
Congratulations on your one year blog anniversary. The umbrella cards are fantastic.
You have such great ideas and wonderful tutorials. I visit your blog daily to see all of your awesome ideas. Thanks
Thank you for blogging and sharing with all of us. I love your ideas- gosh and I thought I was creative- you knock my socks off hands down!
You have the most fantastic ideas. I love them! Thanks for sharing. I love your tutorials for boxes and packaging different items.
I visit your blog to see your creations. I enjoy seeing your artwork!
Congrats Lauren!
I visit because you never cease to amaze me with the projects you come up with! You are truly talented!
Nicole
I love the umbrellas!! You wonder why we all visit, let’s see….maybe because you are so sweet, have the best enabler tactics, are a fabulously creative person?!! Could those be some of the reasons?!! LOL I have so enjoyed visiting here each day to see what you have created, what’s going on with you and your family and of course how cute Daisy’s antics are. Thanks for sharing and a very HAppy Anniversary to you!
I visit your blog every day because of the extraordinary inspiration you offer in your cards, tutorials, and writing.
Wow 157 comments already I won’t even have a chance but I’ll leave a comment for you….I love your creations BUT most of all your tutorials….
TFS and also your family stories. Love the changing of your rooms cannot wait to see the finished product…
I visit your blog daily! Of course, I love your art and creativity, but I equally love your real-life family stories! You should be very proud of your blogging ablities! You BLOCK! : )
You are so creative–I just love your ideas and easy to understand tutorials. I am new to stamping and found your website through Papertrey. It is so great to visit each day and get inspired! Thanks for sharing……
Hey Lauren! Happy Blog-a-versary! I visit your blog for several reasons…you use all kinds of products that I normally wouldn’t see and make really cool, out of the box stuff. But, probably the biggest reason I visit your blog is bc I’m a mom, too, and its nice to hear your stories and realize I’m not alone out there going somewhat crazy with my kids each day. You are so real and genuine and honest…its refreshing.
Happy Blogiversary! I visit because I love your ideas…very inspirational…today is definitely one of those great ideas…love the umbrellas…will definitely have to use this idea for a “shower” or get well card. Love it!!!
Thanks for sharing your amazing talent.
Charmaine
Congratulations on your Blog-iversary! Top 5 reasons why I visit Lauren’s Blog
5. Regularity of postings
4. You let us catch a glimpse of your life - husband, kids, dog, your little mice friends, stamping, creating, decorating, shopping, doctor and dentist visits, and so on
3. Your cheerful and upbeat outlook on life, even with all the ups and downs
2. The selfless sharing of your ideas - including step by step tutorials so we can attempt to recreate your samples
1. The amazing projects and ideas you come up with!
Wow! Thanks for sharing with us
I visit your blog because I know I will always find inspiration here. And I love your Saturday Sketches!
Hi Lauren,
I visit daily - because I love your style! I also read about your life - I relate to you. I like to check up on Alexa, too. Keep up your amazing work - you continue to amaze me!
I visit your blog daily! You are so inspiring and love looking at your creations! Monica~ Riverview, FL
Your blog is the first one I visit everyday. I love your sense of style. I love the simplicity, the innovativeness (is that a word?) and the beauty of your cards and other creations. You are also so generous to share them and your life with us. You have had a tremendous influence on my own card-making style and if I was limited to only one blog a day, it would be yours. Your talent is huge.
I visit because you have inspiration daily, and somethimes that and chocolate is all i need. I like how you take the ordinary and make it special. Also, as a mom of a special little boy, I look for all things wonderful and that is your family and your skills.
Thank you, I bet you just don’t get that simple saying enough.
I am fairly new to your blog but I love your ideas, cards, tutorials and best of all your stories about your family!! You are a bright spot to my day!
Your blog is always a fountain of information - your tutorials and card descriptions are consise and to-the-point. Keep up the good work! Happy Blog-aversary!
NancyS (momsnack)
Congratulations on your anniversary. I visit you every time I see a new entry pop up in my email. You have to be the most talented and creative person out there in blog land. I see your work referenced on lots of other blogs, so I must not be the only one who thinks so! Thanks so much for sharing your talents and for offering the scrumptious candy. I sure hope I win!
Why do I visit? Your creations are AMAZING! Thanks for inspiring!
Happy Anniversary! I have been a SU Demo for a little over a year and I just started doing this blog thing and am absolutely addicted to it. My day starts off with all my blog friends, getting inspired to stamp and create. I love your work and positive attitude. Thanks for sharing so much. Keep up the 3-D and fun Stampin’ Up projects.
Congrats again.
Cindy Otto
Congrats on the blog-aversary! Your blog is awesome. Why do I visit…I visit for inspiration, for laughs, for a good cry some days, and for a lot of your reasons. You truly inspire me every day to be a better stamper and a better person. I love your creations, you are so unbelieveably talented! Thank you!
OMGosh!!! LOVE your umbrellas!!!
WOW, great candy!
I visit because I think you have such a sweet spirit, it comes through on your blog…not to mention your AMAZING talent! Love seeing your creations! God Bless!
Happy Happy Blog-aversary !! SO COOL! I love love your blog. Visit everyday. Such a source of amazing inspiration. I love all your stories and amazing work! Can’t wait to see what else you have up your sleeves. I will try and give this sketch a try.
I love your creative ideas. Like this cute umbrella card. How wonderful are you!!
Thanks for all of your hard work
It’s a good life!
Terri E.
Your cards are great! I just ordered all the new Papertrey colors! I would love to have your log candy to go with them. Happy Anniversary!
Happy Blogiversary! I visit your blog everyday, I love your gorgeous creations!
Thank you so much for all your ideas, inspiration, and time. Sharing is so kind!
Hi Lauren . . I come here mostly for inspiration . . can’t seem to get off my computer to do ‘real’ things these days! You have an amazing talent and everything you show us is always well done and store bought looking. (Makes us actually think we might be able to pull it off too). I never get chosen when it comes to winning blog stuff, but here’s another opportunity to thank you for sharing with all of us . .
what’s not to love about your blog? i love reading about your family and sweet daisy. i love your creativity with paper and your observations about life. the umbrella sketch today blew me away and i have to make one right now.
Happy Blog Anniversary and thanks for sharing so much of yourself with us.
I always enjoy coming to your blog. You have such wonderful and creative ideas. I always am looking for new ideas to wow the ladies that come to my monthly stamp class and you insire me to wow them! Thanks! - Diane
Lauren - I LOVE your blog! I only have about 4 or 5 that I MUST read every chance I get and yours is one. You just speak to me! I feel like if I ever had a sister she would be just like you! We share a love of Target, bargains and more. I love reading your ramblings - they make my life seem more normal cause you go through similar things. Of course you also inspire me constantly with your INCREDIBLE talent!!!!!!!!!!!! I love that you make things your own with your own sayings and phrases! Keep it up and congrats on the anniversary!
oh and only thing to suggest is more BOY projects hee hee! I have two boys and a brother - I do mostly boy projects and yours are GREAT!
Happy blog anniversary! I visit your blog for the inspiration I get… from your craftiness to real life.
Thank you for the chance to win such wonderful blog candy!
You were one of the first blogs that I subscribed to and I love it so much. Your cards are always beautiful. Thank you for sharing and happy blogaversary! (cool word) Loved the tutorial and the set you used. It is so cute. The blog candy is so generous. I would be thrilled to win just the new pti set you made. Thank you again.
I visit your blog because you make the most amazing craft items ever!! I love to hear your stories I feel as if I know you. I know I don’t post often but I’m trying to do better cuz now that I have my own blog I realize just one comment will brighten my day.
Congratulations Lauren!!! My friend everyone (including me) stops by just because you’re you! Your wit, your inspiration, your writing is so freakin funny, your tutorials, your talent, and because the way you share yourself and your family with all of us. You’re just one of the family at the other end of the computer instead of the phone: cheaper phone bill and you can talk to more people at the same time but all over the world too.
Don’t change a thing except Jay needs to let you come to StampMania. in April. 
BTW: I’m printing out the Barry Manilow song to put by my stamp table.
Congratulations! I love the way you see different uses for ordinary things. Also, since my kids are grown, I love hearing about the trials and tribulations of being a young mom. It brings back good memories of my children when they were small.
Thanks for the opportunity and have a glorious week.<