Today  I have THREE posts! So be sure to check them ALL out!

I have been busy as a bee, and *maybe* you can see a very SMALL tid bit of why I haven’t been blogging as much as I normally do! Quality is better than quantity right?? LOL!

Today &  tomorrow the team Papertrey Ink all have a group post! These are SURE to get you inspired

Now Nichole and Mish put their talent and brains together to come up with a FAB new product,  and of course coordinating stamp set called Take Note!

So, our job was to create one, and share it with you.

Oh my love!!! I am just in love with the size and color choice for these notepads!!I decided to make a gift for myself I am forever jotting down my ideas on scraps of paper, and losing them, or having to pile them up in a folder. Sometimes while I’m out shopping, an idea hits, and I’m scrambling for a receipt so I can jot down my ideas as they come! LOL! This set is just what I needed to get myself organized, and with style! Come check out how I created my tri fold notepad!

Here is the “me & my BIG bright ideas” note book I designed using Take Note

I have to say that was my FAVE sentiment for the set. It just called out to me.

I’m sorry but I LOVE Pure Poppy, Ripe Avocado, True Black with Polka Dots! Its such a FAB combo!!

The colors just screamed for me when I sat down to create (told you I am using a lot of black this release :D)

I LOVE Beautiful Blooms, and I felt it mimic the flower in the sentiment I chose, along with the polka dot center.

The note book is 2.5 X 8. I used the white with gray lines for my project.

I decided I would create a belly band to go around my notebook cover-which is a tri-fold design. I wanted to keep it SIMPLE

You just slid the band off, and you then reveal your notebooks!

As you can see I used 2 for my project. I always have lots to keep track of, then wanted to jot down my ideas.

Directions for Tri Fold holder

My cardstock was 8 1/2 inches tall by 9 1/2 inches across

I just created the tri fold holder by scoring along the 9 1/2 inch side at

 3 then 3 1/4

 6 1/4, then  again at 6 1/2!

Made my belly band using 2 strips of cardstock!

1- 8 1/2 X 1 1/4 (that is the back piece)

 Then the front of the band- is 11 X 1 1/4

Scored the 11 inch long strip at 1 then 1 1/4, then again at 9 3/4 and 10. Adhered it to the 8 1/2 X 1 1/4 inch piece and had my belly band.

As you can see I then stamped my notebook pages to reflect what I want to use them for!

I was SO inspired by the notebook, that I created an entire gift ensemble!

(I know! My brain just often takes off in a million directions! Trust me my BODY often can’t keep up with it, because if it did, 24 hours in a day would NOT be enough time to get it all done! Hence my use/need for the notebook :D)

I LOVE matchy matchy stuff, and as I said before, love using the same elements on various projects. I think you can really see here how this set can translate into other gifts and projects!

I used the Around Town Tote as part of my set

As you can see I used the Standard size, and the Pretty Petite size. Love them BOTH!

I then figured that I could also use the Cash or Charge #1 as an idea clipping holder, OR to hold my coupons in when I go shopping

Here is the Cash or Charge #1 wallet close up

I used the GIGA Marvy flower punch for this, and then some wide ripe avocado ribbon to tie it closed, and appear like the leaves.

Easy peasy, and OH SO CUTE!!

Supplies:

Note Book X2

Scor-Pal

My Timeless Template: Around Town Tote, Cash or Charge #1

Stamps: Take Note, Beautiful Blooms, Borders and Corners rectangle, Wise Owl, Floral Frenzy

Cardstock: White, Pure Poppy, Black

Patterned Paper: Bitty Dot Basics

Ink: Ripe Avocado, Pure Poppy, Black

Ribbon: Ripe avocado twill & grosgrain

Circle punch, Marvy Giga Flower punch

Well that does it for me today.  I hope you like my take on the NEW! notebooks.

Make sure you check out all the girls posts:

See you back here again tomorrow for much more

OK if you said butterflies, you are correct!

What is my SECOND favorite thing?

YES! Coffee!! These are 2 “things” that I am all about! I love them.

NOTE: this is also my 2nd post for today, so don’t miss post #1 and post #3! I have worked hard to pull it all together today. It’s a good thing my passion for this craft burns so deep, because sometimes it is also a lot of “work”. I think people can tell I LOVE my job! I love when I’m INSANELY busy! Its a challenge for me. In fact when I’m not challenged or busy I hit a HUGE brick wall. I don’t know what to do with myself

OK back to the post……

My favorite thing to use the My Timeless Templatesfor is of course all SORTS of coffee, tea, or cocoa type’s of beverage gifts. I think I have incorporated that into EVERY single template release to date! Actually I may have to look back because I’m so sure I have! LOL!

I KNOW I’m not alone in LOVING to find fun, new, and cool ways to package up such a WONDERFUL and SIMPLE treats for people. OK at least I don’t think you are sick of those ideas yet, are you?

Well it wouldn’t be ANOTHER fab template release (IMHO) without finding yet ANOTHER template to use to package up my fave treat!

SO today I am sharing my 3 versions of the Cash or Charge Trio template (releasing the 15th!), for my super sweet coffee treats

AHHHH! Is that not delicious?

I don’t think I can ever give these away! LOL!!!!

Here I used ALL three of the templates that come in the Cash or Charge Trio.

So….I used my chocolate bitty dots paper, and COLORED it, to match my projects! I also colored my polka dot ribbon to match too I am officially in LOVE with Sign Language too It made the perfect addition to my creations.

Cash or Charge #1

This is the front of the template. Sweet and simple. I LOVE the paper I am all about customizing paper like this to match your needs. Its fun , easy and stretches the possibilities for you.

I just used the front flap template for this. You can have a template wrap as well. Lots of ways to create this.

This is the back of the “wallet” style. You can really dress it up there too!

I just colored the words each a different color. Stamped, colored and cut my mug. I LOVE adding 3D elements.

Inside is a gift card to my fave coffee shop (Yes! I am keeping it for me I worked hard this past month and deserve it, don’t I?!)

Next up we have Cash or Charge #2

How cute is this?

My favorite project for this release Sweet and simple and yet a WOW! This particular template is just so versatile.

Did you notice that this template, when turned, could also be a mug of coffee? I about DIED when I had this epiphany! I cut down the embossing mat that comes with this template to create the “coffee” part of the mug!

I just made sure the flap was placed on the backside

I bent the sentiment from Tea for Two, to go along with my template bottom. I was in PURE heaven!!

Now inside this template is NOT a gift card, NOT cash……but , the YUM-A-LICIOUS packet of GOURMET hot cocoa from Lindt. Perfect fit! Just adhere inside so it doesn’t slip out.

Talk about amazing. You will be hooked on this stuff if you get some. Word to the wise-Do NOT drink it. Just package it up for friends in family and don’t ever try it! You will save yourself a lot of naughty, high calorie, creamy, chocolate-y, heaven in a cup, sinfulness—-> if you just LET IT GO!

Now speaking of this cocoa…lets move along (and wipe the drool) to the next template in the trio

Cash or Charge #3

This template is holding that SAME packet of cocoa in the pocket!

Isn’t it the cutest cocoa pocket?

You can also use this pocket idea to put in dip/seasoning mixes from Tastefully Simple, other drink mixes, face masks, trail size bath and beauty packets, tea, tickets to a game or concert…..oh man, I could just go on forever

Just pull on the ribbon and the cocoa comes out. Easy peasy!

ALL of the ideas here today were done in NO TIME! So if any of this stuff is on your gift giving list these templates will dress them up in a pinch.

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: Cash or Charge Trio
Stamps: Sign Language, Tea for Two, warm happiness
Cardstock: Kraft, Dark Chocolate, White
Patterned paper: Bitty Dot basics
Ribbon:Dark Chocolate polka dot, dark chocolate grosgrain
square punch, Tag punch

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Raspberry Fizz, Orange Zest, teal

Now if you didn’t know:

All the templates are an INSTANT download! No shipping! Straight to YOUR computer, anywhere in the world

You get UNLIMITED use of them, along with 5 EXCLUSIVE ideas, with full color photos, supply list and step by step directions to re-create the 5 projects featured. A fab value for ONLY $5.

So that is all for me.

Of course if you have ANY questions, please email me directly, so I can help!

I hope you like all my projects today!

Thanks for stopping by

Post #2 for today! So scroll down! if you missed visiting over the weekend you won’t want to miss what has been shared

Another EXCITING day here! I have so many amazing things going on, I’m just plain grateful and ecstatic! October is a good month! 

I think I am going to have to apologize for my use of black this countdown! I basically paired everything with it this month, for some odd reason! I was just FEELING black with a pop of X color! You will see what I mean! LOL!

Today I am using BOTH of the NEWEST My Timeless Templates: Around Town Tote © & Cash or Charge Trio ©

The FUN part to today’s post is the focus on VERSATILITY! Now we are using (like all my posts this countdown) all the same colors and elements on each project and getting a cool NEW look each time! This goes to show how versatile it all really is! You don’t need ton’s of supplies or even ideas to get MANY MANY various, amazing projects!! Also I LOATHE mass producing. This allows me to use the same products and elements but on DIFFERENT projects so I’m not recreating the same’ol BORING thing

So without further delay…….

Pretty in Pink gift set

Now ALL these projects can fit inside the standard version of the Around Town Tote ©!

Can you see how each has the same elements, but each a fab look? (all supplies listed/linked at end of post)

Wouldn’t you just die if someone gave you stuff in all of this? I’d feel pretty special

First we will see Around Town Tote ©

I LOVE this!

I used my Slice cartridge to create the bird “mask” in which I stamped in my text, then flowers from the Life set. It’s just such a stunning and SIMPLE way to make this bag a real WOW! The tag I used the leaf image from 2009 Autumn tags and added the flowers from Life to it! A whole new look don’t you think?

Clean, simple and easy!!

Now here are my side details

I used the In Bloom paper on my side panels. Another simple decorative element that shows the attention that is needed to the SIMPLEST of details!

I LOVE packaging up Lindt chocolates-so get use to seeing them this season! LOL! Its my GO TO gift idea

As you can see I opted for NO handles on this one. I liked the look for this one without it.

Now we move on to Cash or Charge Trio © samples

Cash or Charge © #1 Wonderful Wallet

Going with the bird theme……I used the SAME tag idea, and used Birds of a Feather in the center. I love it!

Now this template flap generally ties closed! But I made a belly band for it instead.

Slide off the band……

and you have your gift card reveal! My FAVE! Dunkin’s coffee As you can see NO score lines on this one There is a slit that gift cards fit into perfectly (or cash!) you will REALLY love this one! I swear

Now we will go onto Cash or Charge #2

Pretty in Pink Pillow Pocket

OH MY WORD! Is this not STUNNING?

Just a pretty simple pink box with a fab tag!

This is the SAME flat pocketbook style template! There is a embossing template that comes with this, so you can create these side panels, and make this template a PILLOW style box-with a ultra cool handle!!

Now on this I used that same embossing template to make my decorative side panels for my box outside! I told you, you will LOVE this particular template in the trio! I’m just over the moon with it.

The tag used the NEW! Giga Guideline, and NEW! Background Basics Text Style II!! You will LOVE it!

Now using the SAME elements once again…last but certainly NOT least……

Cash or Charge #3

Now pretty is this when you use ALL of the layering templates it comes with?

Now did you realize that this can be not ONLY a FAB gift card/cash holder, but a rockin card too?

This is the insert pulled out. Its so simply pretty! I love that.

So here we uses ALL the same elements and got several FRESH looks.

What do you think? Are you seeing lots of gift card holders in your future, and fancy schmancy gift totes?? I know I am

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: Cash or Charge Trio ©, Around Town Tote ©
Stamps:Background Basics: Text Style II, Giga Guidelines, Life, 2009 Spring & Autumn Tags
Cardstock: Raspberry Fizz, White
Patterned Paper: Black & White Basics, In bloom
Ink: Black: Ripe Avocado, Raspberry Fizz
Ribbon Saddle Stitch Black
Prima Flowers, adhesive Rhinestone
Marvy Tag punch, Slice Back to School Cartridge

——————————————————

Tomorrow we have a ULTRA cool group post! So check in again!!!

I’m happy to share that I am taking part in sponsoring some HUGE blog candy for a cause!! Check it out —> HERE! Only a few days left! I am giving away 2 My Timeless Templates, and YOUR choice of a Papertrey Ink stamp set

In the meantime there is MORE eye candy for you: be sure to check out more fab stuff from Nichole!

 Lisa is also sharing her project using Giga Guidelines

More stuff coming from  Dawn, and  Heather who all who have releases this month.

Thanks once again for stopping by.

I hope you are inspired to try making gifts using ALL the same elements-without getting bored

 Day two of peeks starts now

I can’t tell you how excited I get to reveal another template! I often forget what I created until we get to the next release! LOL! We have so much stuff done ahead of time that it is all a BLUR! Once I get that template the ideas just flow all over again, as they did the day the project was designed. Its REALLY cool to see something you created used by so many!

In a recent publication of PaperCrafts Magazine I saw 2 of the My Timeless Templates used in there! Of course I scrambled to find my copy while writing this, and my hubby said he thinks he trashed it! (That is another story!! LOL!) So I can’t say what mag or the pages (sadly), but be on the lookout!

I can’t tell you how cool it is to see others designs with the template’s,  out in the world! Better yet the emails I receive from the reaction people get from those who receive their creations using them UNBELIEVABLE!

Well I hope you enjoyed yesterdays peeks at the Holiday Tags 2009, and the NEWEST My Timeless Template : Cash or Charge Trio! As I said in my previous post the templates/stamps are NOT released until the 15th I have SO many FAB ideas to share this week with ALL of those, so make sure you check in tomorrow for MORE

Today I have my next peek to share, using our second template this month called : Around Town Tote!

I also snuck in the NEW! Holiday Button Bits too

You will really love this one for sure! It has the large standard size, as well as the Pretty Petite version.

Here is the concept project (usually a quickie sample so that there is a general idea of what all those cut and score lines look like assembled!)

About the template: Around Town Tote

Let’s be honest, sometimes we just need a gift bag! But, just because it’s a “bag” doesn’t mean it doesn’t have to be fabulous! Remember gift packaging is the FIRST impression to the gift you are giving! You wouldn’t go to a job interview in your PJ’s would you? Why not make the packaging a gift in itself? This rounded top style is so pretty, and not only is it sure to please, but people won’t believe you actually made it yourself!  Just add any decorative paper to the side panels, and you have a terrific trendy bag, designed by you, for any occasion. ONE store bought gift bag, like these, can easily cost you the price you pay for a one time purchase of unlimited use of this template! The gift bag you only get to use ONCE! The template, both sizes, one price, unlimited possibilities!

As you can clearly see…it has a rounded top, and angled sides.

The template has a FULL rounded top decorative layer (I chose to cut mine down here), and of course the decorative side panels, which lend a world of design options!

Here is my project: Holly Jolly Tote Set

Talk about Raspberry Fizz being  a FAB replacement for the traditional red & green!!

This the the set, using Around Town Tote, I designed for today’s sample.

The standard tote is 8 1/4 inches TALL, 5 1/2 inches WIDE (at the smallest point at bottom) to 6 3/4 inches WIDE (at largest point) and 2 inches DEEP (at bottom)

The Pretty Petite version is 4 inches TALL, 2 3/4 inches WIDE (at smallest point at bottom), to 3 1/2 inches WIDE (at largest point) and 1 1/4 inches DEEP (at bottom)

So both are  really FAB sizes for MANY gift giving ideas!!

Here is the standard:

The is the larger version of the tote. I used the Holly Leaf image from Holiday Button Bits and my heart buttons in Raspberry fizz. I have to say I LOVE the look. I always feel like I do “detailed” projects for my countdown stuff. I really wanted to show you how you can SIMPLIFY and still get that WOW! Let’s be honest, when creating holiday gift packaging, time is NOT generally on our side! So I think that while this is SIMPLE, its still amazing This project (standard size only) took under 10 minutes to make (includes template assembly!). Now I LOVE that

I added the sentiment from Snowflake Serenade. It was just perfect-o!

Now for my Petite version

This may be smaller but is JUST as fab!

 I used the ornament hangers from the Everyday Button Bits set, and again some buttons! I wanted them to be SIMILAR.

The buttons on this ROCK! One looks like a snowflake (to me) the other has tinsel, and then glitter! Can’t go wrong.

You can make someone a gift set of punched tags (using the 2009 holiday tags :D) and put them inside or make MINI note-cards for people, and put them in the mini version. Its sure to be a hit We all need and LOVE pretty tags! They are also easy to mass produce. I’d pick a plain color wrapping paper, then design a group of tags to match and give that to someone BEFORE the holiday Or for a hostess

Wait till you see the EXCLUSIVE design ideas that come with the Template purchase! AMAZING!

OK another COOL presentation for this is to tie the Pretty Petite version, to the standard version!

Isn’ that just SO pretty! I think I’d be more excited about what may be in the little one! Now this can also fit a gift card too But I see all sorts of candies or something YUM like that. Its just so darn purty.

I have to say Raspberry Fizz, New Leaf and a pop of black are calling to me this season

OH one more view since I couldn’t decide what photo was better! LOL!

Are you not LOVING the heart buttons as my holly berries? So cute.

I just love this SIMPLE set!

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: Around Town Tote

Stamps: Holiday Button Bits, Snowflake Serenade

Cardstock: White, New Leaf, Raspberry Fizz

Ink: black, Raspberry Fizz, New Leaf

Ribbon: New Leaf polka dot, Raspberry Fizz twill

Buttons in Raspberry Fizz

Handles: oval punches by Stampin Up!

—————————————————–

Well I hope you like MY version of what I gift bag should be

In the meantime there is MORE eye candy for you:

Kelly and Laurel have some peeks using the NEW templates too So check’em out!!

Then be sure to check out more fab stuff from Nichole!

More stuff coming from  Dawn, and  Heather who all who have releases this month.

That is all for me today. Tomorrow I have even more FAB gift idea, just in time for the holidays! So put on that fave Christmas CD for another post full of fun.

Thanks for stopping by.

2 posts today!

Before I start - THANK YOU for all the b-day wishes for Alexa She sat here and read them all (I THINK! LOL!)

ALSO today is my hubby Jay’s 32nd Birthday! Big birthday wishes to him. We are all caked out (thanks to Alexa and Amber’s b-day stuff) so I’m HOPING today to try my hand at making his favorite (at least I think its his fave) dessert from childhood-Steamed Pudding. Wish me luck on that! I want to surprise him but is HAS to be edible!! ROTFLMBO!!! I’ll let you know how it goes. I never tried it so I don’t even know HOW it tastes. Sounds gross! (to be honest) but he always raves over his BF’s grandmothers recipe. Oh boy! Never a dull moment here is there?

OK moving on….

I’m excited about today’s Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team Challenge!

Stir, Sip & Enjoy

As you can tell by my title, it has to do with beverages!! I LOVE Coffee, and all that fun stuff.  I have to say packaging them is even MORE fun for me Since it is a simple, inexpensive gift, but so enjoyable too. There are SOOOOOO many ways to package it up, its endless.

SO that being said Nichole asked us to get creative and package up a hot treat! That is SO up my alley of fun. I really enjoy gift packaging.

Now given the fact the the weather has taken a frosty turn here, I’m so ready for a nice warm cup of YUM!!

So how about this?

One of the best gifts to give during the blistery ,cold, winter months, is of course Snowman Soup.I took that play on words, and created a fun little package for everyones favorite warm up treat!

You will suddenly be dunking your snowman into a mug before you know it!

Now how cute is he?

 As I said before-you are going to get sick of seeing me use the My Timeless Template © Its on the House, but I couldn’t resist ONE MORE sample There really is a great variety of templates going on, so you can give almost anything in a fun, and EASY package

I decided I would package my hot cocoa, marshmallows, and peppermints in the template. I wanted to decorate it to be CUTE and FUN! This is one of the easiest templates to make a WOW out of.

The snowman is from Made of Snow. The cup is from Warm Happiness. I LOVE mixing and matching various stamp sets.

When I thought of snowman soup, all I could imagine was him IN the cup! I loved the idea, and lo and behold, not only did it work, but its pretty darn cute

The box front was printed on Spring Rain, and the back onto Snow White cardstock.

I stamped my box, and acetate with Rustic Snowflakes, in white stazon. I then added some glitter while the ink was wet. I had some pom pom ribbon stuff, that I adhered around the window-it went along with the snowball theme I had here! I also made sure that the bag of marshmallows (aka snowballs) ended up being in the window.

Speaking of mixing stamp sets…..

For my tag, I used  Holiday Treats( HUGE fave of mine :D), to incorporate the cup o cocoa and the THEME of the challenge

My large snowflakes are from the Snowflake Punch, which I punched from white cardstock, then covered with glue and glitter

I have to say I truly loved this project, and challenge This is proving to be such a fun all around gift giving template for me.

Now that is all for me, but be sure to see what all the girls did

I really hope you enjoyed today’s challenge project as much I enjoyed creating it

Be back tomorrow with many more samples

Let me start today off by saying-SORRY this is so late! I have been beyond busy. I know we are ALL busy! So busy I haven’t hardly been home the last week. I STILL have my top faves to pick too-YIKES! Time is just passing me by.

 I  have some deadlines and stuff I HAD to get done and the computer/blog stuff HAD to be last on the list! Life gets crazy from Sept. on for me- doctors appointments, soccer, parties, practices, open house, PTO, and the stamp industry is heavy into HOLIDAY stuff. Add all that to my plate, in a fury one day-and a NEED for change-I chopped my hair to *just* below my shoulders! EEK! What was I thinking? Seriously though it doesn’t look bad! Ill have to post a photo. Its much more healthy-and EASY!

OK I’m going to be quick cause Jay and I have a HOT date YIPPEE! Dinner with a group of friends-should be a blast.

OK I know, you don’t need to hear me ramble or complain…….it is Saturday so that means time for a Challenge!

This weeks challenge is to use ANY My Timeless Template and  PACKAGE candy of some sort OR get inspired by your candy wrapper! With Halloween around the corner, and holidays this is the PERFECT time to get some gifts done.:D

Post your creation HERE:

MY inspiration came from Ghirardelli—–> CLICK HERE to view the bag of Raspberry Chocolates

Then lookie here!

I think this came out so pretty!

I used my 3D idea found—>HERE to create these FAB paper punched flowers I added stamens to the centers for that extra touch. Virtually NO stamping (EEK!)

Then I added some Prima leaves to the sides. I LOVE this flower! Really adds that MUCH loved dimension and POPS out at you-literally.

I  use the template Its on the House (the standard AND Pretty Petite version (my first project using the small one)

My colors are Sweet Blush and the Scarlet Jewel. Very striking combo. Paper is In Bloom.

This is the side view of the large template

The stamped portion used the bird from Just Hatched and the sentiment is from Remember.

After I made this project I BROKE my apron border punch-GRR!!

This is the small version of the template-close up

Now as you can see I decorated the large and small the SAME! Just used a smaller punch for my flower! EASY PEASY!

Large or small I think they look GREAT! This is a gift for a special friend-who I NEED to send a special TY to!

Well that does it for me!
You can see what my team of girls has done for this challenge-Just click their name:

As ALWAYS thanks for stopping by! I hope you get inspired

Yes! I am alive!

I’m just super busy.

Thank you ALL for the comments on the party and all our new photos The girls enjoyed me reading them everything.

So I do have something fun to share A great project that I hope you will enjoy. It includes a video-so be sure to check it out!

Today I am being featured as a Guest Designer at Scrapbook News and Review! 

You will need to go there to see my project and post today.

Well I wasn’t sure what to think when Erika emailed me, asking me to participate as their first guest designer!

My initial reply to Erika was-”I don’t scrapbook (well not much, and I’m not good at it), so I don’t know that I can be a guest!” She quickly replied that Scrapbook News & Review was all about everything! Just do whatever I want, and it should be fine.

Well, needless to say I was of course “nervous” about WHAT I would do! I always feel that way any time I’m “featured” in some way, be it a My Timeless Template release, group project, newsletter or of course-guest spot. I never want to disappoint anyone.

That being said I figured the majority of readers are most likely scrappers! So I kept in mind the fact that they ALL use photos-a lot! I knew I wanted to do SOMETHING special with them, but was unsure. Myself, on the hunt for great, inexpensive gift ideas found the PERFECT idea!

I HOPE you like it (here is peek)

Hope you enjoy this project, and find the time to give it try for your gift giving this year, no matter what season, or occasion!

Thank you for joining me.

Oh man! I’m a busy girl! I’ll get my other post up tomorrow or Sat. I have to take Alexa for her post Chemo check up this am, and have a few TIGHT deadlines…..so gotta get that stuff done ASAP! I took a special one on one class yesterday so that took up quite a bit on my time yesterday, but will be SO worth it in the end! 

I hope you all don’t mind me sharing Amber’s 5th Birthday Party!

I can’t even believe she is 5 already. KILLS ME! My baby-growing so fast. I just want to FREEZE her right now!

As you have read, over what seems like MONTHS, Amber had a Princess Costume Party. I feel like I planned a mini Wedding!! She was so particular about every detail (wonder where she gets that from! LOL!), and needed this like that, and OH! How cool would this be….and so on. I actually think I should start saving for her Wedding NOW! LOL!

In all seriousness I truly loved every minute of it. I was really cool for her to give her feedback, and convey her party “dream” to me. So, after MUCH prep here is what we ended up with!

First we needed a dress!

We found this little number at the Disney store back at the end of JULY!

She was so excited! I have to say I think she looks alot like a little real life Sleeping Beauty

We completed the outfit with glittery shoes, wand (lights up!) and her crown.

I loved this photo-too bad the wand gave me some BLING on her face :C

If you haven’t noticed by now Amber TOTALLY loved posing and being a Princess! LOL! I didn’t have to tell her anything, she just got into Pretty Princess mode! LOL! It was so funny. I actually had to tell her to stop!

Now when Alexa saw Amber’s dress she wanted the same one. Well, Amber was NOT going to let her wear the SAME thing, so we opted for a different version

Getting these two to look at the camera at the same time was a huge feat! I’m NOT looking forward to Christmas photos.

Let me tell you the claws came out and sister rivalry really showed its ugly claws for this situation. Alexa even tried to get Amber’s dress on herself, before Amber knew it was laying out. Alexa claimed it was HER dress! OH! BOY!! Anyway…….here is Alexa-who hates when I make her take pictures (on most days!)

Her hair actually looks really pretty since it was all curls

She is very shy, if you can’t tell

Sadly she won’t wear this at the town Harvest Parade-she wants to be a SKUNK! LOL! I was hoping to get my money’s worth.

Now we have the PARTY SCENE! Set for 8 Princesses

PS-Sorry I’m not sharing photos of the girls-some people don’t like their kids photos shared on the internet

We had a room FULL of balloons and streamers (you can’t see them here) It looked really cool.

Amber decided we NEEDED a centerpiece for her table! When we were at Michael’s she saw a plain wooden castle. Well, she HAD to have it! So she picked out some paint (pink, dk pink, pale yellow and purple) we got some sponge brushes, and away she went!

She was SO proud of what she did. I was even MORE proud than she was!

I seriously cannot tell you what an AMAZING job she did painting that castle ALL by herself!! I showed her quickly HOW to get it painted, smoothing out an globs of paint once she was done getting in the crack, and she did the rest!

The top she did yellow (and that did make me cringe but I kept my mouth SHUT! ) and the top inside she did purple (-again mouth shut! LOL!) It was just painted so perfectly I wasn’t even expecting that!

She then took glitter glue, and added the jewels. I was scared to let her do that in fear it would ruin her amazing painting, but it was HER castle, so I left the room and let her be. When I came back I was in SHOCK! It was beautiful!

After the castle was done she wanted some ribbon. We both thought that filling the top with flowers (that match her favor boxes) would be a really nice touch too! (and it covered the purple! LOL!)

I cut over a 100 flowers and leaves for this party, with my Cricut Plantain School Book cartridge, in like 3 minutes! Can you say LOVE!!!

I tied the ribbon around the edge, added some butterfly stickers, and then took a cut Styrofoam ball, covered in a large sheer ribbon, and added the flower details. I used a hot glue gun for that.

We sprinkled stars and glitter all over the place when it was done!

The tag is a “flag”that I made it using my Cricut when I was experimenting!! It came out cool so we added that too!

Table set with Crowns and jewels to decorate them, magic wands, princess frames for them to color/decorate (which we got close up face photos at the party, then printed their faces to put in them before they left! Really cute!) favor boxes that I designed *just* for Amber’s party, which were filled with 2 beaded necklace making projects, jewels, candy necklaces, and a bunch of other stuff, and we of course had Princess lollipops!

Not getting ANY closer than this to the favor boxes-you’ll see them soon enough

I also made the tags on those with my the basic download stuff Cricut SCAL came with.

Now we have her Castle cake

It came out so pretty I was very happy with it. We also had a castle pinata…….and

 YUMMY Castle Lollipops

So needless to say it was a day fit for a Princess!

I know someday I will look at these photos when she is grown and remember this day like it was yesterday…………..

I know, can you believe it?

I’m so excited!!

 Today Melissa is opening an online digital stamp store with a great selection of brand new Halloween and Christmas designs. So now PCS will have two stores, one for rubber stamps and one for digital stamps. You can check out the new store at: http://www.pinkcatstudio.com/Digital/PCSDigi.htm

DON’T fret you rubbah luvah’s (hey Paulette and Tracey, does that bring back any memories for you?)!! She will STILL have her normal rubber stamp releases! The rubber/digi images will be different images. So best of both worlds for those diving into digi stuff.

These images are $3 each.

With the economy, maybe these are more affordable for you too I mean seriously, I spend $3 at least once a week on coffee

NOTE:I keep all my digi images in a special file so I can EASILY locate them Organization is key to using what you purchase.

You can see the regular store –>HERE<—

Now I’ll share 3 samples I got made in a jiffy.

First up- My FAVE!!!

Little Ladybug Box

Now cute is this gift box?

 I was recently asked by one of my readers if I had any ladybug party favor ideas! Well, yes I do!

This little ladybug box was made using the My Timeless Template: Rounded Wrap Up! It makes the perfect pairing with Melissa’s NEW! Itty Bitty Betty:Ladybug Can you imagine the FUN party invites and matching favors this can make? LOVE IT!

Now both are INSTANT downloads, so you could start making your own Ladybug box in 5 minutes

For this project:

I printed my box on smokey shadow cardstock. Cut and assembled as directed.

I then lined the bottom with my bitty box basics paper.

I made my wings by cutting a mat layer in red, and cutting two 1/2 circles

Punched some circles, and was ready to go!

I adhered JUST the top flap so the wings would pop forward. They have dimensionals under the wings.

The top is tied closed with ribbon, and 2 cardstock antennae were added. SO cute

The girl was printed on white cardstock, then colored with COPIC markers! Easy Peasy.

Now we have : Let it snow

  My time was tight so I whipped this simple lil card up WOW! Did this ever get washed out! The coloring in the background is SO light-sorry! Didn’t have time for the photo set up. I love the lil boy elf! Of course, the penguin too!! How cute having them slide down a candy cane! WOW! Love that. There is some glittery snow on the ground Obviously some silver snowflake table confetti, swirling around. I think this one was cute  Since I LOVE the candy cane image…….  Much better photo! How cute is she? Again simple card-but I love it.The digi images were quick and easy, and I colored them at soccer practice! LOL! Now THAT is multi-tasking   

Check out these blogs to see some fabulous cards and projects using the new digi stamps:

Becky Carafa - http://www.lakeshorestamper.com/

Emily Leiphart - http://www.leiphartonart.blogspot.com/

Inge Groot - http://www.patternedpaper.typepad.com/

Jodi-Ann Lee - http://www.inkedinspirations.blogspot.com/

Lauren Meader - http://laurenm.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/

Lauretta See - http://www.passioncartesetplus.blogspot.com/

MacKenzie Bruckler - http://midnightscramper.blogspot.com/

Maria Bell - http://stampininspirations.blogspot.com/

Mariska van der Veer - http://www.sendingyoualittlesmile.blogspot.com/

Sparkle Smith - http://sparklecreations.blogspot.com/

Suzanne J Dean - http://www.scrapbitz.blogspot.com/

Tracey Cuccia - http://www.tmcuccia.blogspot.com/

Vicki Garrett - http://www.summerthymestudio.blogspot.com/

Let’s be honest, the images sell themselves, but once you hop around to see the eye candy, I’m sure you’ll add more to your MUST HAVE shopping cart

I’m dying to hear your thoughts today

Be back with more tomorrow!

WAHOO! In case you didn’t know-today and tomorrow……

JustRite Stampersis having a H-U-G-E Mega Font Blog Hop! 

They are even having a 30% OFF Promotion!! Check it out —>HERE! Perfect time to shop

I LOVE my font sets. So many options! What I *really* love is that any/all the font sets are perfect with ANY images you may have bought from other companies. Sometimes we hunt for the PERFECT sentiment, and are willing to spend the $$ for that perfect one, when you can now easily make your own! No more hunting!

This month we are trying to show you the MANY different things you can do using their font sets in ANY and ALL your creations! As you hop along you will see a HUGE variety of uses. It is SURE to get those wheels in your head turning! 

 ”I” of course will be doing a gift item

Now while I was posting the countdown peeks for my newest templates, I WARNED you, that you would see me using It’s on the House © A LOT!!!!!!! I’m over the moon for this template and ALL the possibilities. So I hope you don’t get sick of seeing all the ideas I have had for it.

So, that being said, I used it today, for the hop!

Sending Holiday Joy

I created this little “house box” to give some White Lindt Chocolates!

It reminds me of a vintage style gift box, given the image! I’m just in LOVE with it.

I’ll get to the “gifty” details in a minute, first let me share the sentiment story

I was inspired by the sentiment in Holiday Demi Phrases Round 2” -”SENDING HOLIDAY JOY”. I didn’t want a rounded sentiment, so I pulled out my Horizontal Wood Stamper Set  and used *just* the font from Wood Stamper 2-3/8″ with Bonus 25pt Font & Center to create my own! Now I have the exact sentiment I wanted, and in the same font too!

SEE! You don’t even have to be overly “creative” to come up with good sentiments! Just look into some you like, and copy them using your own font set! EASY PEASY!

I just stamped my sentiment in versamark ink, onto brushed gold cardstock, then embossed it with gold EP!

I then, punched it out with my label punch from SU! It was the PERFECT addition to my house gift box!

Now about the BOX!

When I received the NEW! Sarah Kay line, the image Noel Charity just stood out to me. I thought it was truly stunning! While my coloring leaves much to be desired, I knew she was perfect for this project I had in my head!

This image was *just* an adorable girl, knocking on the door, I had to give her a home with it!

I just scored the box to appear more “house-like”, and scalloped the flap for my “roof”. It is distressed a bit, but it didn’t show up well in photos.

As you can see they are the PERFECT union!

The girl is 3D, as is her little package of love. She truly appears to have just stumbled upon the doorstep.

Trust me when I tell you PHOTOS do this NO justice! It is a must see in person.

I used red, gold, green with hints of a pale blue. Her coat is flocked with red. There are touches of a gold pen here and there, and of course snowflakes of gold.

I added “snow” to the “ground” of the house. Just adds to the detail.

I feel the entire package convey my main message ” Sending Holiday Joy”!

Supplies:

Stamps:

Sarah Kay: Noel 2009 Charity

JustRite Stampers: Wood Stamper 2-3/8″ with Bonus 25pt Font & Center

Cardstock: Red, Gold, Kraft, White

My Timeless Template: It’s on the House ©

Ink: Momento Black, Tea Dye ink, Copic Markers, Versamark

Ribbon: Gold

Gold Embossing Powder, Gold pen, Chunky glitter, red fun flock, Martha Stewart snowflake punch, label punch, garland/berry from Michaels Craft store, scallop border punch

Now! I’ve done my part (I HOPE!), to show you some ideas using the FONT! Time to HOP ALONG!!

Here is a list of players:

JustRite Stampers Blog

Michelle Wooderson
Sankari Wegman
Heidi Blankenship
Eva Dobilas
Beate Johns
Sharon Harnist
Barbara Anders
Sharon Johnson
Deb Saaranen
Becca Feeken
Kazan Clark
Lauren Meader <–You are HERE!
Tammy Hershberger
Linda Beeson
Jenny Gropp
Lori Craig
Tanis Giesbrecht
Jenn Balcer
Lisa Somerville
Karen Maldonado
Pamela Smerker
Karen Taylor
Latisha Yoast
Julie Overby
Mary Pfaff

See you here tomorrow as I have a Newsletter Project to share (with a video)