OK I know you have all been chomping at the bit here for the next peek at the 2nd NEW! Release from My Timeless Templates © from Papertrey Ink, which will become available with the next release on the 15th! WAHOO!!

First, let me say Happy Easter to everyone! I so enjoy this time of year. I am so happy because we are having my mom over for the day and some dinner. She won’t have to cook a thing. Just relax. She is usually the one always running on the holidays. We are also celebrating her birthday today too (it was the 8th). Plus I get to hoard my niece Gabriella who is getting SOOOOOO big. The kids are obviously excited for the day too, since my mom and the baby are coming 😀

We are going to have a fun egg hunt in the yard, and just a day of fun and family. I hope you have a nice day too.

OK, now let me get this done so I can do up their Easter Baskets! Its like SO late here, and Im already exhausted.

Sooooooo…………………the next template is called “From the Desk of“.

Crazy for Daisy Gift set

This is a FABULOUS template, that YES! Sits out on a desk!

The idea of the name was because I made this box for my friend Robyn  (I’ll share that later). I personalized it “From the desk of” then added her name. My thought was HOW cool to make this set for everyone?! AND make it personal, hence the name.

 You can fill it with cards, stationery, organize your supplies, and as you will SOON see, SO MUCH MORE (as always).

Are you able to see I was on a serious “desk” gift set kick ?

I don’t know, I just LOVE giving and receiving great cards and gift sets. I love when things are packaged all pretty. It just speaks volumes to the thought and time you put into these gifts. Especially when you take the time to MAKE cards of other items, they deserve to be represented properly!!

OK so with this $5 template purchase- you get the PRINTABLE template for the base, as well as the 2 angle cut decorative side panels, and the decorative front panel layer as well! So no fussing with the perfect decorative layers!!! You also get the option of including a center divider panel for the inside of the template. Let’s not forget the EXCLUSIVE Idea Catalog-with 5 projects, that include photos, step by step instructions, and a complete supply list-to make gift ideas even easier 😀

So lets see the SAMPLE!!

Who wouldn’t FREAK if you presented this to them?

This is the photo of the front view.

Here is the top view

Now I will show you the side panels

This is the other side.

Here is the set with the card sample out

Now this desk set will easily fit your A2 size cards, and envelopes, but also, so much more 😀

This is the collection of items featured in the desk set I made. (only 2 cards featured in photo).

In this set I included 8 handmade cards to match-with the envelopes as well.

I love the card design. Clean and simple-yet nicely detailed.

I altered a Band-Aid tin (for stamps to mail the cards or little return address labels!)

In the box I cut down a Square trendy tube so make the little tin raise up higher

I covered 3 little white notepads, so you can keep notes, or jot down addresses or events!

I think this is so pretty.

Here is the flower detail on the box

I stamped it on vellum cardstock, dry embossed from the back, then colored with varying shades of Copic markers.

I then layered the 2 flowers, and added a button center! I love this box.

Now this is a photo with the band aid tin and notebook out.

Supplies:

From the Desk of template

Stamps: Friends Till the end , Everyday Classics (unavailable for purchase-Anniversary set)

Cardstock: Hibiscus Burst, Vellum cardstock

Patterned Paper:2008 Bitty Dots, Friends til the end

Ink: Black

Buttons in true black

Trendy Tube (not shown)

Copic markers

circle punches

May Arts velvet ric rac ribbon

Band Aid tin

There is the option of adding a divider panel in the center, as I did use for this project.

So……………what do you think?

Do you like it? LOVE it? Not sure if you NEED it?

Well, then lets do another project!

This one used JUST the template base as a gift box.

Now I think THIS alone is FABULOUS.

That is what is SOOOOO great about the templates. The IDEA of WHAT kind of gift presentation is done for you. That is the hardest part. All YOU have to do is decorate it, in your own style. Personalized gifts, every time. IN MINUTES!!

Anyone who has bought a template Im certain, can say they were amazed at how fast and easy these are to put together. Its made many ONLY card makers GIFT makers! From little kids to beginner stampers, to seasoned paper crafters. You have not idea how much hearing stuff like that means to me. It means MY DREAM of helping everyone be able to make more affordable gifts, has become a reality!

Now looking at this in a GIFT BOX way, I’m sure your brain gets FLOODED with ideas. If not, no worries! Over the enxt few days I will share MANY ideas for this template that is sure to spark SOMETHING that suits your own creative ventures in gift giving.

Here is the detail photo

I love the cut out flowers. I airbrushed the originally white panel, so soften it, and layer onto my Amethyst box base.

Having the decorative cut out templates makes what would be the hard work, easy. No messing up and cutting 6 pieces to make it all perfect! I already did that for you! LOL!

Now what to put IN the box?!

How about a dual planter, with paper flowers!

I got this mini plater at the Christmas Tree Shop! I knew I wouldn’t DIRTY it up with REAL flowers that I could kill! LOL! So I make a paper bouquet, based on a seed packet of flowers I purchased *just* for flower inspiration!

Here is the basket

I have to say I jumped up and down when this was completed.

How much more pretty can paper flowers be? I mean REALLY!

What a great MAIL-ABLE, gift! No wilting, no watering.

Now you may not believe that it actually FITS in the box!

But, it does, I swear!

See!

Its just so pretty in here

And a side view so you see its not SQUISHED in there. It fits perfectly.

That hardest part to remember is to NOT pick up the handle! To carry the box base. If you pick up the handle then the flower planter, obviously comes out.

Supplies:

From the Desk Of template

Stamps: Remember

Cardstock: Amethyst (non-PTI) White, Plum Pudding

Ink:True Black, amethyst, plum pudding, lavendar moon

Ribbon: Plum Pudding Satin, leaf couture ribbon

Buttons in true black

Copic markers/air gun

Adhesive pearls

Martha Stewart Butterfly punch, scallop circle punch, circle punch

planter

various punches

So there you have it! My first peeks of “From the Desk of“! One being a desk set, and the other SO NOT a desk set, but rather a gift box. A very pretty gift box at that.

The ideas for this one are ENDLESS!

Add ribbon handles, punch a handle in the back-put them together…………….OOPS! I gave away another peek idea!

More on that tomorrow 😀 and many more ideas to follow.

Now you know WHY I’m so insanely busy 😀

So PLEASE share your thoughts on this here! I love to hear what you think. Plus I busted my butt on these samples, so its nice to know if you like them 😀 I think we all like that validation at times. After the loss of mojo I had post surgery it was hard getting back into it. I’m actually still struggling a bit to get caught up, but it will happen………….. eventually!

In the meantime, check out Kelly’s blog for her peek at this template

Also check in on Nichole, Dawn , Heather and Lisa,as they are all sharing samples too!

Enjoy the holiday.

Till tomorrow…..

Do you get totally stumped when it comes to Sports, or anything related to it? Like GIFT ideas?!

Well, then MAYBE today’s post will help you out with some ideas. I have to admit this really stumped me! Not be sporty and all. Despite my sporty inabilities, the set is really cool, and great for ANY sport.

My kids play soccer, basketball, baseball and dance. None of that ambition comes from me. Now DANCE is so up my alley, all the other sports, not so much. So when it comes time to highlight that Im usually just as clueless as the next valley girl!! LOL! I swear I sit there there during the games absolutely clueless. Granted I do know WHEN my kids score (hahahhaha), but that is usually it.

Nichole gave the team a challenge to take Team Spirit to a new level, and create some sort of card and gift centered around SPORTS.

This group post today features Heather’s new stamp set is called All Star Team & Additions.

I decided on making a gift for a Soccer Coach (since my hubby Jay is the kids soccer coach, and I enjoy that sport most)

I took my NEWEST template Get a Handle On It-and made a Sports Jersey themed gift box.

Now how cool is that?!!!!!!!! I told you this one was versatile! You can add about anything to the FRONT of the box. Like the baby onesies 😀

PS-NOW I KNOW you are DYING to see the next template-that will be posted TOMORROW! I will share a COUPLE samples with the template you have NOT seen yet. Trust me, its heaven! I’ve been bustin my hiney 😀

I just made my box, as directed, then made my Sports Jersey panel, and adhered it to the front of my box! I love it!!

Now the hanging whistle is totally cool to me too. Really makes the gift.

NOTE: I removed the original string (and put it in the box) so it would look more like it belonged on my box. Plus I could shorten it.

The All Star is embossed with white EP.

My BIG gift idea was to get a whistle, and have the team pitch in, to get it engraved! Things Rememberedengraves ANYTHING you want (for a price of course! LOL!). Its a great keepsake, that the entire team can give. Since the engraving isn’t THAT pricey on a small item such as this-you can put any extra 4 collected towards a gift card or other gift item, and put that IN the box 😀

Side view

When you open the box……

You see the mini jersey card

Inside the mini jersey card- is a gift card to a sporting goods store.

Now, also in the box is the gift of a Sports Watch/Timer.

 Every coach needs a good one of those.

So this is the set together-Gift box and card.

I’ll be putting the gift box/whistle up on my Etsy Store sometime soon!!

Supplies: www.papertreyink.com

Get a Handle On It Template

Stamps: All Star Team & Accessories

Cardstock: New Leaf, White, Black

Ink: Versamark, Black

Embossing Powder, string, whistle, grass filler, circle punch

————————————————————————-

Now for the questions, answered! Many of you asked HOW this template opens! So I figured I’d share.

I made this box using the Get a Handle On It template, and the Everyday Classics (PTI anniversary set)

As I told you, the handles fold in first, then the sides fold in to hold it closed

Now this is the box, unfolded.

Its REALLY cute.

I LOVE that the largest Scallop Square nestability fits PERFECTLY on the bottom too 😀 Make a nice finished look if you want it, with NO FUSS.

Supplies:

Stamps: Everyday Classics

Template: Get a Handle On It

Cardstock: Ripe Avocado, Dark Chocolate, Snow White, Vellum

Ink: Ripe Avocado, Dark chocolate, Melon Berry

Punch: Martha Stewart butterfly

Ribbon-chocolate twill

Large scallop nestability

So there you have my peeks for today. I have LOADS more. OH! BOY! My head is spinning.

Make sure you check out the entire teams projects!

 Till tomorrow!

Well its the 10th already!

Can I get a WAHOO!!!

 Im so not ready, but I’ll do my best to keep up this week. Having 2 weeks “off” from stamping, KILLED my time and assignments schedule. Oh, yeah, and my MOJO! Not too happy about that.

Its S-L-O-W-L-Y making a come back.

Every month- during this week, I feel like Tigger from Winnie the Pooh! LOL! Just bouncin with excitement! Seriously. This usually gets me motivated to kick my own butt! We shall see.

 Time to share a sample using a My Timeless Template© , and of course, a new stamp set called Scattered Showers,  with you all!

You have had a view of this template a few weeks ago-it is called Get a Handle On It © 

This is due for release on the 15th.

Get a Handle On It © is the perfect box for SO MANY great gift ideas-as you will SOON find out for yourself!

Its a SUPER cute box, that has fun, cut out side panels, in which the box handle pops through.

I can’t tell you enough how much I love this particular template! LOVE!

Its cute, and perfect size. I love that the largest square nestability PERFECTLY layers on the bottom of this too, for great finishing touch.

Looks can be deceiving. You may think this is a SMALL box.

Well, NO! Its actually quite a nice size-measuring 3 1/2 inches squared.

This allows you to fit some awesome stuff in there. When we used this box at Stamp New England, we were all able to fit over 38 bite size chocolate candy bars/pieces. Now that ROCKS!

Wait till you see the box of beauty that I put in this creation! The little umbrella makes the perfect image since we are using this box/gift to brighten someone’s day. You will want to start making one for anyone you know- weather they are  celebrating something, or not feeling well. Any excuse will do!! It is sure to make someone’s day-rain or shine 😀

So today I am sharing a video that shows the SIMPLE technique I used for my Get a Handle On It © project

I’m calling it the “window treatment” because it allows us to add interest, and color to the windows of our boxes, or other projects, that may use acetate. Getting a small peek at what is IN your gift is so fun! Now you can make your “window” even prettier.

Here is the close up view of my “window treatment”.

This is where the Scattered Showers Stamp set comes in. It was PERFECT for this technique of dressing up the window of my box.

I used Papertrey Inks Clearly Creative Cardstock for my window.

You just stamp your image with White Stazon.

Then use your Souffle Gel pens, to color the acetate, from the back.

This gives you nice color on your window, and a great fresh look! Cute eh?

Now when you OPEN the box, this is the SURPRISE inside 😀

Now we take it out……..

This is what you are getting IN the box!

A bitty baby booty blooms box-(say that 5′x fast).

 Its a nice little gift, instead of giving FRESH flowers, that wilt and die, you can give them this.

I decorated the large square tin, that I made 5 baby booty flowers for.

A sprinkle of glitter-and VIOLA!  A gorgeous gift, or party favor-completely perfect in the gift box-which is a gift in itself.

The large square tin fits perfectly into the Get a Handle On It box.

Isn’t it so pretty? Simple and elegant.

Perfect size to keep on a desk!

Did you think that something like this could fit in the box?! Well it DOES!

Here is the close up of the little booty buds I made 😀

Aren’t they just adorable?

I put this up in my Etsy Shop, along with another version I created 😀 I hope someone finds it a good home 😀

 Supplies used:

Get a Handle On It © template-due for release the 15th

Stamps: Scattered Showers and Background Basics Dots & Spots-also being released on the 15th

Cardstock: Clearly Creative cardstock, Spring Moss, white, amethyst

Ink: Amethyst, spring moss, sweet blush, lemon tart

Ribbon: Spring moss collection

Spellbinders circle nestabilities, Prima Flowers, Souffle Gel Pens

Large clear top tin-square

Tomorrow I have another great sample using this template. I will share the FIRST peeks at the other template on Sunday-the 12th. You will love it 😀

In the meantime, check out Kelly’s blog for her peek at this template 😀

Also check in on Nichole, Dawn , Heather and Lisa,as they are all sharing samples too! If this stuff doesn’t get the creative juices flowing I don’t know WHAT will 😀

As always I love to hear your thoughts-so let me know what you think!

Thanks for stopping by.

Till tomorrow……………………..

I think personalizing gifts is one of the best parts about being a paper-crafter!

If you purchase something personalized it always costs MUCH more, or if it is pre-made, is generally hard to find. Especially with ALL the unique names or spellings of names.

That is what I love about alphabet sets. Limitless personalization.

Not only is anything handmade nice, but when you personalize it for the recipients, they REALLY seem to feel extra special. I know I LOVE getting stuff with my name on it 😀

I attended a wedding over the weekend. For the Bride & Groom I purchased a silver clock/frame combo-that I had engraved with their names and wedding date. I swear the engraving costs as much as the clock/frame itself! LOL! But, having something so personal is truly priceless.

As you know I ADORE making gift packaging, so  I wanted to make a very special, custom box, for the frame to fit it in, since it was rather large. I wanted it to really stick out from all the other gifts on the table-so I personalized it.

I think it is gorgeous 😀

Now EVERYTHING is paper!!!!!!!!!!! I’m so proud of this one.

BEFORE you ask: Yes! THIS WILL BE A VIDEO! I will share how I got the entire look and flowers to shimmer! I will make another special box to go for sale in my Etsy shop, when I do that video 😀 (yes I have stuff to add! It won’t be for another few days though. I have WORK to get done)

I made it to fit their Wedding color scheme which was Ivory, Chocolate, and Pink.

This is a hinge style box, in 2 colors.

I used a gorgeous Pink Satin ribbon from May Arts for the front decor

This is view going towards the box top

Now we move onto the top

OK I’m sorry for the BLUR.

This is a rather large box, so the  FULL view was difficult to get in the picture, in my photo tent.

My project today uses items the NEW! Spring Release from JustRite Stampers ! These items are all available for PRE-ORDER!

For the Bride & Groom Monograms I used the following

 Celebrations Demi Phrases -the congratulations 1/2 border

Tromphe Upper & Tromphe Lower case alphabet -the date, and initials.

Make sure you check out the following blogs for peeks with the Spring Release:

This is a close up of the customized initials, and wedding date

Its truly stunning in person.

I added pearls to the ends of the “Congratulations” sentiment. Just a nice, elegant, finishing touch.

I MADE those shimmery paper roses and flowers!! The ONLY thing NOT made by me, is the 2 rose leaves, and the pearls in the center of 4 of the flowers!

Oh, and I also used Beautiful Bloomsfor the stamped leaves on the cardstock base.

I then  moved on, building dimension with the flower/leaf layers.

Isn’t it amazing???

I’m just in love with the finished look. All from scratch. It was hard to give it away!

This is another side view

I wanted a nice, neat look from ALL angles, so this is the up-side-down view

You can’t see any of the STICKY stuff! Looks like a floral garland, stuck onto the box 😀

Isn’t it all so lovely?

I would have died to get a box like that 😀 HEHEHEHE

OK I sound like Im so into myself here, but I think if you make something you LOVE and are super proud of (and honestly this took me a LONG time to make!) that you totally need to give yourself a pat on the back 😀 So I am! LOL!

Anyway, I think my point is, how cool is this hobby, and companies that provide the tools, so that we can do it all ourself ? !

So have fun seeing what everyone came up with for th3 newest release!

Well its the first of the month! That means it is time for a Papertrey Ink Design Team Challenge!

Nichole asked that we use our buttons in a fun and unique way.

Once again I was stumped on HOW to get “original” with buttons, but I had fun just the same.

I included a SHORT video on HOW I store my buttons!

Keep in mind I am on PAIN KILLERS! I didn’t realize how it affected me till I watched this! LOL! Definitely good for a laugh!

Anyway I hope you like it! I know this storage issue is a CHALLENGE for many of us, especially when SPACE is a problem.

We want them visible and accessible, yet not take up too much space.

I used my tall Trendy Tubes in case you are now on the HUNT for them!

Now for my project.

I designed what I like to call a Fun Fold Up! Box.

Boy did I have a BLAST creating this one. I knew I wanted a rounded top handle on it.

 Its pretty cute and FUN (of course)! Took lots of tweaking, as it is inspired by the traditional Gable Box style, but funktified and modernized in Lauren style :D.

This is the TOP view

This box is good size!

Without the top-measures:

5 1/2 inches tall, 4 1/4 inches across and 2 inches deep!

Great for cards 😀 or whatever else you choose.

I love making boxes and this was WAY too fun to make.

I used some items that I don’t normally craft with-

funky colors:

True Black, Teal, Hibiscus Burst, Ripe Avocado, and New Leaf

 felt: a new love for me

batting: for POP

DMC thread/floss: for my buttons

and lots of buttons.

I actually stitched the tree, which was die cut with my nestabilities first.

 I used batting to make it 3D! I added some pretty Hibiscus Burst buttons to act as “cherries, or apples” whatever your fancy! I used Zip Dry, that I got at Stamp New England! Works AMAZING on buttons and just about everything else you could imagine. My new favorite way to attach my buttons (and everything I can glue down! LOL!)

Not only does the Zip Dry, dry fast, but it is clear, easy to clean off stuff,  pretty mess free! A Lauren MUST HAVE!

Thanks to Julie for nabbing me some 😀

Its such a funky tree, but I think I like it. I’m going to put this in my Etsy Store sometime today!

I had to add some felt flowers in there as well. Lovin all the details this has.

Here is a SIDE view

 It was a very textural experience and lots of fun getting out of my comfort zone. Always a fun challenge to dare to step outside your own boundaries.

I used Wise Owl, Friends till the End, and Father Knows Best for this one.

Check out all the senior team member to see what they come up with for the button challenge!

Thanks for stopping by!

I’ll announce the WINNER of the My Timeless Template Class Kit tomorrow!

In the meantime I SOOOO appreciate all the comments left. You all make every second I spend her worth it-so THANK YOU!

WOW! Brace yourselves with at least 2 cups of coffee to keep up with me on THIS post today. Im long winded (as usual) and ahve so much to share.

Well as you know we had Stamp New England about 2 weeks ago! It was a BLAST!!!!!!!

You may have missed the event but you don’t have to miss my project. Keep reading.

It was wicked awesome to finally have a event in NEW ENGLAND!! Granted I got to CKC, but that is for shopping not stamping! LOL!

I was first up to teach that day, and was happy about getting it over with, then I was a little nervous as I looked around and it seemed like every single person was intently listening to my every word! I don’t get nervous about public speaking easily, since Im definitely NOT a shy person, but I have to say I was a little intimidated! LOL! All of the sudden a room of people who “know me” is in front of me waiting to see what I am going to do!

I was scared I would let them down! LOL! Then I got a grip, once I started talking, and felt right at ease. I just knew I had to do what I do,be myself, and not worry about what flies out of my mouth! LOL!

I had so much fun meeting and getting to know everyone, even though it was a bit busy.

It was SUPER amazing of Nichole, Jane and Julie to donate a Life Stamp set to every attendee, and for Nichole to take the time to put together the My Timeless Template I made special for the class called Get a Handle On It.

It will be released this month on April 15th. I was very excited to share it with everyone early, and get feedback on it right away.

I got new video editing software with our new computer ,which had tons of problems at first, but my sweet hubby hung in there to get it to work! Its called-Windows Movie Maker.

So I laid in bed doing this yesterday! It was SO much more fun than the other one. I love the options more. I think it looks more professional. Although I do need practice I think this first one was FUN, and not too bad! LOL! Now I have a list of tutorials to do using this new process, and I can FINALLY do High Def!! YEAH!

I put the template intro video into a clip, and then all the photos I have of everyone. I was just playing around. I hope you enjoy it! I was also able to get MUSIC onto the pictures in the end! Let me know how you like that part too.

Forgive the song! It was the only one I had ready. I do love it and think its pretty catchy, it makes watching photos much more fun-so if you have your volume up, you may want to adjust it a bit. I need to purchase more songs on my computer for future use.

Enjoy the video:

Now for MORE fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So who wants to win my class kit from Stamp New England?

One pre-printed My Timeless Template © (not due for release till April 15th) called Get a Handle On It © with the Stamp set Life.
Here is the project

This is a SUPER sized box, that will fit many gifts!

This box EASILY held at least the 38 bite size chocolates that we swapped at the event! WITH room to spare! Looks deceiving doesn’t it? I put my Lauren touch on this and have to say one of my favorite projects to date.

Top view

The flap closure on this is SOOOO fun-you will see more details as we get to the countdown! The sides fold over the handles, so the handles POP though, letting the box flap closed.

Trust me, really cute. Not just a square box.

Side

Just a simple, stunning box, that can fit so many wonderful gifts!! Even the bottom is decorated with a scallop panel. Who wouldn’t love this?

I put the ORIGINAL box, made by me, and signed on the back, on my Etsy Shop! (Also ALL this months template countdown projects will FINALLY have a home there! )

SO leave a comment here, and I will enter you to win the same packet the girls at Stamp New England got!

That means you win the printed version of the template-so you can put it together at home, and give it a try before it’s even released, and you get it with with the cut supplies to make this project as seen here, and the Life Stamp set too!! YIPEE!!!

Now let me chat a bit

This is my dear friend Paulette!

(OK I look so tired in this photo! EEK! It was the END of the day!!)

Everyone always wants to know WHO is that mysterious person I alway talk about, that is usually on the other end of the phone, when my life is upside down or I have a problem! Aside from my mom who listens but probably doesn’t understand how BIG it is (if you don’t stamp HOW can you GET IT really! LOL! Or know the who, what, when, and where)—the only person who COMPLETELY gets my stamp insanity, and why I do what I do—-that would be Paulette.

She is THE ONE who got me so into stamping in the first place! She was a SU! demo when we met, and after a few months convinced me to become a demo. Its been a whirlwind every since. So we can all thank her for really getting me into this INSANE hobby. My husband may not feel so nostalgic! LOL!

I was just truly happy, after so much hobby hopping, to feel like I finally found something I LOVE to do.

I had to BEG her to take a photo with me! GRR! I’m like” you are my friend!! For goodness sake we NEED a photo together!” FINALLY she agreed, after much begging.

 Whats a girl gotta do?!

She is the unfortunate one who listens to all my complaining, and never seems to mind! God bless her soul.

She is just the sweetest person ever! Everyone needs a Paulette! She is the friend that is always there when you need an ear, or a favor, like die cutting 40 scallop nestability squares for YOUR class! LOL! Or who calls into work because she is sick with a migraine, then comes to take your kids so you can have surgery earlier.

Just so fun, funny and genuine. I can’t say enough about her.

Trust me, anyone who can listen to me several days a week is a SAINT. You see how I type, imagine me on the PHONE. All my conversations start: “OK! I won’t keep you long I just had to tell you……” then 2 hours later……still going. Then I suddenly realize my banter and say “OH! MY! GOSH! I kept you way too long. OK I’m going to let you go. Sorry for chewing your ear off.”

Jason doesn’t know why she answers the phone! LOL! He’s like she has caller ID right? Thanks Jay!

Here is a group shot of all the “teachers” at Stamp NE! This is on the video too.

Its Karen, me, Julie, Cindy, and Joanne.

Everyone did great projects.

The GENEROSITY of ALL the vendors was astounding. Thank you to all of them. I went home, online and placed SEVERAL orders! LOL!! It was very enabling.

Karen won tons of awesome stuff! LOL! She was ONE LUCKY girl!

Julie was UBER sweet, and was so great to me during the entire planning of the event. So wonderful to work with

Cindy has a HUGE SU! down-line, and following! I can see why. She is a sweet as pie. I had no idea!

Joanne I always KNEW she was sweet. we worked for Kim from My Favorite Things together (who I love!) and she is always so cute, and funny. She is just adorable and sweet in person. She even called me to offer to help with my last minute stuff after my gall bladder attack! That is just amazing when she had her OWN stuff to do too.

Everyone was totally amazing. Made me feel at home. Like I knew the entire room of people for years. I did have some familiar faces. It was so great to meet people who interact with me here on my blog, finally in person.

Now one more person I can’t forget that isn’t in the photo is Kim-she was a big planner for this event and you can see it is in her blood! She is just so darn purty in person too! LOL!

Kim Scholfield, Joanne B. and Julie Masse worked so hard on this event and it really showed!! Everything was well organized and AMAZING!

I would definitely teach or go to another event these girls plan, let me tell you! Count me IN!

I was like the AMAZON of the entire class! I’m 5’10 so that put me WAY taller than most people. It was AWFUL! Between that and my ZEBRA shirt! LOL! I wanted to shrink-and burn every photo. Jason told me to wear that shirt, and I KNEW I shouldn’t have looking back. Oh well.

I am actually slouched down in most of the photos if they are a close up! LOL!

So that is it for now.

Jay is STILL home letting me recover. Im doing my best and I know you THINK I’m doing stuff, trust me Im not. I feel SOOOOOO LAZY its insane. I slept for like the past 3 days. I want to take a marathon run around my block! LOL! I’m getting antsy. But trust me I CAN’T move like I want, so no worries.

I have a wedding to attend on Saturday, and I have a SATIN dress-that shows every curve (or cellulite bump) so I better not be bloated for it. I LOVE my dress!! Its pretty hot. It took me forever to find one that I liked, let alone LOVED.

I find I’m in between ages at this point in my life. I want to look nice, but not too young, and not too old. Its a fine line.

After much searching WHERE is that typical hot little black dress? It doesn’t exist anymore!

The dresses were either too young, too old or too PROM! OR there is HUGE bold print in bright colors that I don’t want splashed across my garment. A card-yes! My dress-NO!

Whats a girl to do.

I had a super hard time finding something SEXY  but not HOOCHIE! I work hard to get my flat stomach so Im not wearing a SACK……

Im not 17 anymore so not into super short, you better not bend over, or the world will see what your mama gave you…….

or the I think I need sunglasses that woman has so much bling on her dress……

or the “how YOUNG does she THINK she is” dress………

Or OH MY WORD! Look what Lauren is actually wearing dress……

I wanted the “WOW! You look great!” dress. The kind that your husband has you on his arm and won’t let you out of his sight dress! LOL!

 The on that just makes you FEEL good about yourself. Not one you have to wear SPANX to get into, but you are just comfortable in your own skin in.

I think I got it.

I’ll share photos of that when we come back. Jay and I get a night out, overnight! WAHOO!! Finally. We don’t ever get time away. This will be nice.

WOW! Can you tell I’ve been COOPED up?! Holy first chapter to the novel Im writing!

Anywho-thanks for stopping by! If you read this you must have been as bored as I have been!

Well I’m getting ready to leave soon.

I sit here freaking out, missing my coffee, and SO thristy!

I have been too tired the last 3 days to exercise (which means I probably just should have), and planned on a nice long workout today before I went. Then I remembered-I can’t DRINK! So that is NOT a good idea. It would have been nice and cleared my head. I feel VERY LAZY! I normally only miss a day a week. Plus knowing tons of people are staring at my belly definitely should have motivated me to do more abs! LOL!

So I’m hoping to keep my brain occupied by typing a post before I go.

April Showers bring May Flowers planter box

This is a project in which the photo does it NO justice.

I made this box using My Timeless Template called The Perfect Match box.

This is  a NEW! stamp image from Stampavie Rachelle Anne Miller  SPRING collection called Giving Shelter. Wait until you see the amazing stuff being released. WOW!

Front view-

There is actually lots of shimmer and dimension to this. I had a BLAST coloring it. I love the colors.

Seriously how cute is this?

Here is a front view-I love how it is decorated!

Here is the side view

Now for the FUN part!

I used just the slider template, and made a FLAP!!!

That template is just so versatile I can’t even stand it 😀

Now lookie what is inside……..

2 little decorated flower pots!

Isn’t it cute?!It sold out of my Etsy store in MINUTES!!! Thanks everyone.

I used the Papertrey Ink Spring moss, summer sunset, and lavender moon for my  colors, with the Bitty Baby Blessings paper

I can’t wait make and to add all the gift ideas I have. OH BOY!! I’m hoping to update the site with all the cards I have, and soon more gift items I have planned on making. Its going to be good!!!

I thought given the time I had this week that this image today was appropriate! You all have been wonderful in helping me and sending good thoughts my way for my surgery today. THANK YOU.

If you were sitting in front of me I would SCREECH! I feel like my walls are all falling in on me.

I did my best to get all the things on my list done, but it proved to be impossible.  With all the kids being sick (Noah came home with a high fever and headache yesterday) ,then Alexa’s father informed me she was exposed to her cousin – who just found out she has MONO! GREAT!!!

Then that leads to the thoughts in my head about the surgery, my brain couldn’t let go.

I didn’t get ANY of what I needed to done. A first for me. Its upsetting, but I just couldn’t concentrate. Nothing was working out. The simplest thing was complicated and nothing came out worth using. Very upsetting, that the stress was just too much and KILLING my creativity. Hopefully as I recover, my mojo will too. I just can’t believe I couldn’t even get out of my own way this week.

As for the surgery I know this is no big deal but NOW I’m really starting to FREAK OUT.

I’ve never had ANYTHING done. I was in the shower when it occurred to me, what if I am one of those people who can FEEL everything, but can’t move? FREAKY right?!

Now FYI if YOU are going to have surgery don’t watch Grey’s Anatomy!!! Especially the last 2 weeks. It’s been about losing people in surgery that was suppose to be simple, then something weird goes wrong-and BAM! Dead.

I know I sound like a drama queen right now and I WAS fine, but now I’m not. I shouldn’t let my mind wonder.

I feel like a huge baby right now, seeing my LITTLE girl go through WAY worse than ANYTHING I ever had to go through and once I heard “catheter” for some reason it totally sent me over the edge.

I’m SO wishing it was done while I was in the ER last week. Then there was no thought to it.

I’m not saying I don’t want it done-I know I NEED it done!! I can’t even fathom the idea of another big attack. I’m just nervous.

I an sure Ill be OK and don’t know why Im rambling. Makes me feel a little better I guess.

Anyway-thank you for the support this past week. I’ll check in and let everyone know all the gory details like I usually do when its all said and-done and Im not doped up, so I actually make sense.

All my Stamp New England girls told me I need to get Twilight, so maybe Ill do that.

Well I’m off!

I should be out of surgery by 3pm EST!

Pray Im not a “statisic” OK! LOL!

Later.

So today is THE day!

We now have 2 sets available at Pink Cat Studio

Aren’t they adorable? Endless ideas. I LOVE that Dress Up set.

If you hadn’t noticed I went a WEE bit overboard on all my sample making. I could NOT stop!

So here are the last of my samples! Enjoy.

Dress Up Sweet Pea

This is a little container filled with berry 3 musketeers!! YUM!! It was a Prima box, recycled.

I made the strawberry cut out. Cute and SIMPLE! And oh so YUMMY.

Hap-BEE day

I LOVED the bee. How can you NOT love it? This card is really cute, I think.

Now we have the Sweet Pea 2 set

Flower Pot Stick

I was inspired by the seed packet. I love this little planter stick. How cute would it be given WITH a planter?

I just wrapped the stick I had with ribbon to look like a flower stem.

Close-up Doesn’t this make you think Anne Geddes stuff? SO cute.

Here is a card-very shimmery in person. I loaded the flower petals with Shimmerz.

Fairy Wishes

OK in all honesty this one hit me at a huge break in my mojo! LOL! It was one of those-tweak a bajillion times and still not right! LOL! Oh well. Win some, lose some.

You can’t see by the photos. But lots of bling.

I will say I HAD to salvage it because of the coloring I did on the image. Its actually REALLY pretty (the image-not the card! LOL!) in person. I know when I do something sub-par. I was just spent by the time this sample rolled along

Sentiment is from JustRite Stampers

Well that is it for me.

Enjoy the release.

Id love to hear what your favorite image is from the stamp sets!

Hopefully I can get my act together today and Alexa is having a good day home.

Thanks for stopping by!

OH boy! I am crossing stuff OFF my to do list, but it keeps getting bigger! How is that possible?

I WILL get it all done. I figured I can stay up late Thursday if I have to, since I will most likely be knocked out all weekend! LOL!

Must be the MOM thing-go! go! go! I always feel like the more I have to do, the more I actually get done.OK doesn’t sound right, but its true.

I have to say that I have actually had FUN packaging all my creative goodies from my Etsy store, to go to good homes! Its nice knowing they will not be tucked away in a room in a big dark box. I may have missed my calling! LOL! Maybe I should have owned my own shop! I could just make all kinds of fun stuff for it. Its been so fun. Its sparking all kids of creative ideas just knowing Im not making it for NOTHING! KWIM?

Its also setting me into GIFT making mode-which is so NOT what I should be doing right now. But you know how I get stamper ADD and ALWAYS put off the MUST do’s for the FUN stuff right?!

I am definitely adding some COOL stuff soon. Wait till you see my list. OH! I can’t even sleep!!! I just get idea after idea of what I am going to make. No worries! I make lots of lists, so I won’t forget.

Obviously I wont have a video done this week (I did do 2 last week so that should make up for it (wink). My time is REALLY tight and those take a few more moments than I have.

Today I am chaperoning a field trip for Amber. We are going to the pizza parlor to make mini pizzas from scratch!! I love going to all her stuff. I also have to do my pre-op testing, take Daisy to the dog groomer, get Noah a vaccine, and complete like 4 + projects. Lets not forget-the normal everyday stuff somewhere in between.

This should be interesting. OK that is way to much complaining. Im boring myself to sleep over here (its like 11pm right now as I type- if you are wondering)

Ready for more peeks? Today features Pink Cat Studio Baby Stamp Set 2 which is being released TOMORROW!!

Here is one I made while I had my SUPER adorable niece Gabriella (Gabby)-so I had to take the photo op.

If you didn’t notice-its inspired by the horse I got her named Giddy (and YES! I know that image is a giraffe!!) and the jammies to match!

Don’t worry no baby drool on the box! I made sure.

Is she not ADORABLE?!!!!!!!!!! I could just kiss her to death. I just melt when I get to spend time with her. What is FREAKY is how much she looks like Amber as a baby. I wish I had a photo to share. I sometimes forget Im the auntie and not mommy! If I don’t see her for a week I freak! Thankfully I get lots of time with her.

Here is the side view

I love everything about it.

Lots of dimension, great color, and simply cute. Oh and WHO doesn’t LOVE polka dots?

I know I do.

The head is cut and layered on again for a little more POP.

Seriously cute. I LOVE this image to pieces. Oh and I added the hair and bow! This could be a BOY or GIRL! Its a super set.

Here is another making it more BOY

Gabby had another pair of PJ’s that inspired this one.

Its a single layer card, but simply sweet I think. Sometimes you don’t NEED a ton of stuff tog et a super cute look.

Its a great Welcome Baby card-or if you are ambitious (due to coloring) a great announcement 😀

It has a nice lightly glittered border in a pale blue. Subtle. I like it.

OK ONE more with this set-Howdy Little Partner

I made this for Ethan (I need to finish his package! EEK! add that to the list. Ive been working on it forever now)

He just got a new horse so I thought of him when I made it. I LOVE the punched/embossed pinking edge from EK success-LOVE IT!)

Now this is definitely not “plain”

I had this rodeo style paper for some time now, and finally dusted it off. I love the Lasso. I just think this is cute. Maybe Ethan is too OLD for it? I don’t know. I like it. Im sending it anyway (along with the OLD card I made for him using Dress Up Billy ) I so need to get better about mailing cards in a timely manner.

Anywhooooo

as I said yesterday

Melissa is having a CONTEST!  Who will be the next Cutie Patootie?? You can see that HERE!

Check out all the DT member blogs for more awesome peeks!

Sparkle Smith is the Guest Designer–check her out HERE! Sparkle’s blog

So Ill see ya tomorrow.

Thanks for stopping by and saying hi!

Oh boy! I feel like I have a bomb strapped to my body TICK TOCK TICK TOCK-just ticking away the minutes I have left to get done everything I WANT to do. NEED to do. I don’t know HOW to NOT do stuff. Im in quite the frenzy here, and am not used to there being not enough hours in the day.

Anyway, I do like crossing stuff of my “to do list” so lets hope it dwindles!

I really NEED to say THANK YOU again for the emails, cards and comments about my impending surgery. You all have helped put me at ease and brought up things I didn’t even think of-so THANK YOU to all of you. I know I say it all the time, but it means the world to me.

Your kindness and support-AMAZING! There are NO words. I feel so supported amongst a world of amazing women 😀 How do you say thank you for that? I don’t really feel worthy of it all, but Im takin it 😀 Seriously thank you.

Now lets get down to buisness!

OK I have the first peek for the NEW! Pink Cat Stamps Release -Sweet Pea! Its a cute little “baby” set.

“They” as in the baby boy and baby girl are ADORABLE! I begged Melissa to name them Ellie and Eli! LOL! But she had a contest instead (which I totally spaced on posting! BAD DT MEMBER :C)-sorry!) and the winner was chosen to be Sweet Pea. Very cute. Gender neutral too.

So to me, this new line-Its like Lily and Billy had a baby! OK I know I can’t even fathom that either! Especially since to me they are like Amber (my 4yo) I see Lily as a little girl. Oh! How fast they grow! LOL!

Here is my favorite project!

Sweet Pea Dress Up set

Baby Bunny Basket

This design began with the ribbon :D) I get my May Arts stuff HERE! Purple and green are SO Spring to me.

Then the dress up set-making her an Easter bunny.

Then what better project, than to custom design, what I like to call a Petal Basket.

I designed this UBER cute basket just for this project! YES! One of a kind 😀 Its really awesome!!

Here is a close up of her “outfit”

Her dress is stamped, colored and cut out.

The Ears are one piece, and pop over the edge. I think she is ADORABLE!!

I did faux stitching around the patterned paper layer.

I made some flowers to match using various punches.

Inside I could fit a bunch of stuff, but put ONE large purple “jewel style” clear egg-with chocolate of course.

So girly! So cute.

here is the side view

I put it up for SALE on my Etsy shop My Time-Less Little Treasures if you want it!

Now I have another project also listed there now-Baby Bear Box

Also inspired by my ribbon 😀

Seriously!

How flippin cute is he?

I don’t have another angle! OOPS! Nothing overly exciting on the side anyway.

The ribbon wraps around the entire box, and is folded at the top, held closed with a brad.

His hat, shirt, and Binky are all colored and cut out separately. Im not big on masking sometimes! LOL! Plus I like dimension. I added a CUTE bear sticker to his shirt as well.

I made him using My Timeless Template- Rounded Wrap Up!

You could fit a sweet little gift in here for the new baby! Like $$ or a gift card 😀 Maybe baby shower favor? Coupons for babysitting? Pampering day for the new mom. Little baby lotions-like a homeopathic baby lotion?

Just a cute little gift.

The good thing is there are ONLY 2 days of peeks! So less waiting for you! The release is on Thursday March 26th!

Melissa is having a CONTEST!  Who will be the next Cutie Patootie?? You can see that HERE!

Check out all the DT member blogs for more awesome peeks!

Sparkle Smith is the Guest Designer–check her out HERE! Sparkle’s blog

I have more to share TOMORROW! So come ya’all come back now ya hear!

Until then, wish me luck with my to do list 😀

I’d love to hear what you think of todays post. And for fun, if YOU had twins-a boy and a girl what would you name them?

When I had Alexa I was going to do Alexa and Alexander (yes the thought of twins crossed my mind! I was HUGE!!!!!! So it would have been nice to know there was at least another 9lb baby in there! LOL!

I have no idea what I would name twins now-I thankfully don’t have that worry anymore. I can’t imagine how HARD it is.

OK your turn-if you have time 😀