Christmas 2013

Merry Christmas to all of you. We went to my mom's last night for our Noche Buena aka Christmas Eve festivities. One of the amazing perks of having a chef for a sister is that, she took charge and cooked everything. And every single dish tasted great! There were lots of presents, especially for the little kids and my mom. She keeps saying how much she loves being a grandma now. She gets as much loot as the grand kids. I remember when both my kids were small and they got so many toys for Christmas. Last night, they mostly got envelopes and they were both very happy about it. Time surely has changed. It made me excited watching my nephew and nieces tearing the wrappers of their gifts with that mesmerizing look on their faces and they'd say, "I really want this". That is probably why people say, "It's just like Christmas" when they get something they've always wanted. I am so blessed and really grateful that my son has been home since Friday and that I took a few days off work to spend time with both my kids. It's been so wonderful. What a priceless gift - my family. I have everything I could ever wish for.

Well, that's all for now. I want to wish all of you a wonderful Christmas. Thank you for stopping by.

Santa's List

For a long time I have been resisting the electronic books via Nook or Kindle. I love to read and my co-workers have been telling me that giving in to the technology of e-books will help me plus save my rapidly deteriorating eyesight. I kept saying I love the sensation of paper in between my fingers, the smell and the crispness of the pages as I turn them and on and on. I'm just really stubborn and traditional that way.  However, this past Thursday during our Company Holiday Party raffle, I won a Nook HD. I was elated, actually more so about winning than the actual gift itself. I kept telling myself and others that I have been wanting to get a Nook. Although, it was not completely truthful. It was not in my list of wants. I did not want to unwrap the shiny plastic off of this strange gadget for hours after I brought it home. I seriously stared at the darn thing for minutes at a time, then I would walk to the living room, walk back to the kitchen where it was on top of the kitchen table and then walk away again. I did this for at least ten times. It was foolish and I really didn't know what I was afraid of. It was a piece of electronic for Pete's sake and not a time machine. Perhaps I was afraid of change, no matter how minute. To someone who loves to read as much as I do, this in my opinion is quite significant. Do I still say, "I am reading this amazing book or e-book?" What will I do with my book shelf and the books the I have collected over the years? A big part of me felt that this whole electronic book world will take away the most cherished process of feeling a book in one's hands. Then again I argued with myself about some of these amazing gadgets that I now feel I cannot live without such as my Keurig beverage maker, Clarisonic, Chi hair flat iron, iPhone, Ninja blender/food processor, etc. So, I finally opened the Nook, turned it on and downloaded a few of my favorite books at a discount. I re-read The Great Gatsby and by the last page, I knew I had just sold my heart to e-books. I have been reading every chance I get and I really love the built-in dictionary. I doubt I will use this for anything else, other than reading. I guess Santa came in early for me this Christmas. Thank goodness, I was in the Nice list.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Santa's List (W 131808 C 131811), Positively Chevron (W 130496 C 130499)
Paper: Cardstocks in Real Red, Midnight Muse and Whisper White, In Color DSP in Gumball Green
Ink: Classic Stampin' pad in Real Red
Tools & Accessories: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Bigz Scallop Squares Duo, 3/8" Stitched Satin ribbon in Midnight Muse (126847), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430).

Well, that's it for now. Last weekend before Christmas, I have a lot of things to do. I have been delayed by my new toy, so it's crunch time today and tomorrow to do last minute errands and finish wrapping gifts. Bye for now and thank you for stopping by.

Joyful Christmas

I have been very busy at work, not to mention I have been sick and coughing like a mad dog. I have been so exhausted. So, since it was my birthday weekend I made sure to rest and nap as much as my body needs. That was my gift to me. I stayed in my pajamas and watched sappy Christmas movies on Lifetime and Hallmark channels. It was very nice. I am not sure if I'd been taking too much Nyquil, but I've been having this recurring dream about me. In my dream, I see myself walking away and no matter how loud I called out my name, I never turned around. I had a similar dream twenty years ago when I was pregnant with my son. When I shared this with my grandma she casually said, "Well, it makes sense you are going to be a mother and the life you know now will change. So, it's you walking away from this life to a different one." She always had some kind of response to everything. I wish I could pick-up the phone and call her right now. To hear her voice once more, what a gift that will be. Oh well, so you can imagine why I'd been kind of wondering what change I am venturing in to now. My life has been hectic, but I am not anticipating anything life-altering happening anytime soon. So, here I am waiting for what the future holds. As another birthday comes and goes I am truly thankful for all my blessings. I cannot change the past...but then look at where it led me! I have a beautiful family and a life that I'm proud of. I am one lucky girl and grateful every single day.

I had so much fun making these cards. I was inspired by Tami White to use the cardstock vellum on the poinsettias. Putting together the parts were a bit time-consuming and laborious, but the result was so fulfilling. I made a dozen of these cards. I made and sent out 62 Christmas cards total in four designs. What an accomplishment! I hope that the people I sent them to realize how much they all mean to me.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Joyful Christmas (W131802 C 131805)
Paper: Cardstocks in Brown Sugar, Cherry Cobbler and Very Vanilla, Brushed Gold (102935), White Vellum Cardstock (101856)
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Cherry Cobbler and Old Olive, Metallic Encore pad in Gold (132141)
Tools & Accessories: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Pretty Print Textured Impressions Embossing folder (132175), Apothecary Accents Frame Lits (127003), Heat Tool (129053), Stampin' Emboss Powder in Gold (109129), 1/2" Seam Binding ribbon in Cherry Cobbler (120992), Sponge Daubers (102892), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Paper Snips (103579), Large Pearl Basic Jewels (125577)

Oh well, that's all for now and happy birthday to me!

Retired BNF Friday #24

As parents, we are often quick to dismiss our children's wishes and force our own desires on them because we claim that, "we know best and we only want the best for them". My daughter called me on this recently simply by choosing a restaurant to eat in. I gave her options and when she told me where she wanted to go, I immediately shut it down and told her we are going somewhere else instead. She blurted out jokingly, "what's the point of asking me then?" It was not that big a deal, it was only a restaurant and in the end we went to her first choice, perhaps out of guilt on my part. My point is I feel that I have always been a very supportive and understanding mom to my kids. I feel so fortunate because I really have awesome children. However, I am and have been guilty of giving them choices then con them into picking what I wanted them to do to begin with. Since I am their mother, they often just do it trusting that my decision is the best. I must know what I'm doing. After all, I am their mother. But do I? I am not talking about which outfit to choose or which back pack will be sturdier and last longer. I meant in the grand scheme of things, when it comes to their future and what will bring them the most joy...do I have a clue? A few days ago, my daughter and I were in the car and she asked me if I'd always wanted to do accounting and HR work. Her question and curiosity caught me a little off guard. It's funny how when you've been doing something so long that after a while you begin to believe that it was meant to be. So, I told her the truth. I told her that when I was a little girl I've always wanted to become a lawyer. Then shortly after finishing the sentence, I asked myself quietly if that was even my own dream or I only wanted to fulfill my grandfather's dream for my mom. I realized that I still have not figured out what I really want to be when I grow-up. I do know for sure that I have always wanted to become a mom, I've always wanted a home to raise my children in and a husband who will adore me even when I annoy him (sometimes). And that I've always wanted to create pretty things. Well folks, I guess I did get my dream after all.

My son truly inspires me when it comes to going after one's dream and living with passion. He has always been a dancer before anything else and although he tried to do many things as a child, he never strayed from what brings him the most joy - which is dance. He knew there's barely no money in it, he is also aware that it requires hours of practice, hard work and plenty of risks. He still keeps on doing it. His passion shows even when he just talks about dance and how he and his team won first place recently at a dance competition in Berkeley, CA. He makes me proud. I was so happy that he was home this week.

I combined French Foliage and With Gratitude stamp sets to create this card. Card stocks are Old Olive, Really Rust and Very Vanilla. I used More Mustard, Really Rust, Old Olive and Chocolate Chip classic stampin' ink pads. 

Well, that's all for now. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Thank you for stopping by.

Gently Falling

I have always been sort of intimidated of Two-Step stamp sets, because I can't seem to get them right. I can be such a perfectionist sometimes and it really annoys me when things are not lining-up straight. I must say that after making a dozen of these cards, I got over that feeling. I think that it really turned out nice. I shouldn't doubt myself so much. I didn't think these color combo would work, but wow, they sure do.

 

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Gently Falling (Wood 128430 Clear 123804), Truly Grateful (Wood 131730 Clear 131733)

Paper: Card stocks in Summer Starfruit, Midnight Muse, Naturals Ivory and Comfort Cafe DSP (retired)

Ink: Classic stamp pads in Summer Starfruit, Midnight Muse, Pool Party and Cajun Craze

Tools & Accessories: Sponge Daubers (102892), 3/8" Stitched Satin ribbon in Summer Starfruit, Stampin' Dimensionals (104430) and Large Oval Punch (119855)

Well, that's about it for now. I have been feeling discouraged lately, but a quick visit from my sister and nephew this weekend definitely cheered me up. Also, I had such an amazing cards class last Saturday. I am so thankful for my gals who come over once a month and create with me. Having them over bring me so much joy. If only I could do more events/classes than my schedule permits. Oh well, have a wonderful week, everyone.

Retired BNF Friday #23

Thank goodness for 3-day weekends! I so need this to unwind and relax a little bit. For today's Retired BNF (But Not Forgotten) Friday, I would like to share this patriotic card just in time for Veteran's Day.

I've had a very weird couple of weeks. It seemed like every song I heard I'd wonder if it'd be appropriate for my funeral. I even made a list of music my family should play in my funeral just in case I die quite suddenly. I know, I told you I was having a really dark time. I don't know if it had anything to do with the weather, but I just felt really down. I've also been thinking about how I will be remembered. Someday when everything's been said and done and I am no longer around, how will the people I left behind remember me? When they hear my name, will they feel relief that I'm gone or will they always think of me with such longing and sadness? Will they remember me at all? This made me think of Stars in the Sky and how many people I know still talk about his kindness and generosity, especially around the holidays. He was also well-known for his holiday parties, crab legs galore, free frozen turkey and wine, the singing and the whole message of it all: gratitude to all his employees. He walked around with an apron happily serving away everybody. It was really extraordinary and everyone there walked away feeling appreciated and recognized. It's no wonder after all these years, he is still missed by the people who knew him.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Service & Sacrifice, Jumbo Stampin' Round Classic Stars
Paper: Card stocks in Real Red, Brilliant Blue and Whisper White
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Real Red and Brilliant Blue
Tools & Accessories: Punches in Small Star, Scallop Oval (119586) and Extra Large Oval (119859), Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Apothecary Accents Framelits (127003), Rhinestone Basic Jewels (119246), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Have a wonderful weekend! Thank you for stopping by.

Tags 4 You x 3

I am having such a productive weekend. Yesterday, I spent all day sorting and organizing my closet and my daughter's. I filled two huge bags with clothes and shoes we don't wear anymore to send back home. I do this at least three times each year and yet, it still amazes me how fast things accumulate. I am still on a roll, so this will be a quick and short post. I want to share with you how I came up with my very own version of DIY Washi tape using scraps of Designer Series Paper. I created three cards for different holidays with the same layout. I was very proud of myself when I finished.

I am really loving this Tags 4 You stamp set (Wood 131820 Clear 131823) from the Holiday catalog. It has a coordinating Label Bracket punch (132153). I am such a sucker for punches. It just makes everything so easy, don't you agree? I rummaged through my scrap box and used them sort of like Washi tape. These ones are all retired DSP scraps. Well, there you have it.

That's all for now, folks. Have a wonderful Sunday! Thank you for stopping by.

True Love

I believe that a single decision changed my life forever. Twenty years ago today dressed in Levi's jeans, white t-shirt and a pair of Tretorn shoes, witnessed by my dear grandmother and aunt, I married my husband in the municipal hall officiated by the mayor of our hometown. There was no wedding cake, no guests, not even a wedding ring. My husband and I kissed and promised each other our love and devotion until death do us part. And the rest is history.

Surely, after twenty years of marriage most of the romance was replaced by duties and chores. Over the years, working and raising our children have been the main focus of our daily lives. Admittedly, sometimes I feel like we've forgotten how to just be a couple anymore. We're parents, so it frightens me to think how we're going to cope once the nest is empty. Perhaps we can travel then. To be able to just get in the car and drive. In the mean time, I am grateful that I have been married to my childhood sweetheart just about half of my life. Every so often, I'd still catch a glimpse of that boy I met thirty years ago and without fail still feel butterflies in my stomach. Just a few weeks back, we met at Safeway (yep you got it, Safeway) so I could shop during my lunch break and he could then bring the groceries home. I was standing in the middle of the cereal aisle when he walked towards me with a smile and winked. Just like that, my knees weakened, my heart skipped a beat and time stood still even just for a very brief moment. I guess that's how I know that after all these many years, he is still the one for me. There was no extravagant wedding, but he's made me so happy and given me the most amazing marriage...dull and uneventful to many, full of butterflies, nonetheless.

I wanted to make this card colorful, but since it's for my husband I thought he'd appreciate this more. I used Papillon Potpourri and Best of Butterflies stamp set. I had the sentiment custom made in the Philippines. Huge thanks to my Tita Ising who had it done for me. She is awesome!

Well, that's all I have for now. Thanks for stopping by.

Creepy Crawly Halloween

I just love this time of the year. The weather is perfect! I have been busy making Halloween cards and I thought I'd share it with you. I usually mass produce holiday cards this time of the year, so I always make sure they are not too complicated. This one was really simple, but the layers were kind of time-consuming. I was surprised that it came out really cute and the colors are awesome. I would totally wear an outfit with this color combo. As I age, the brighter the better. It distracts people from noticing the things I want to hide. Although, I must admit that I am not one to lie or deny my age; it's still sort of depressing sometimes. Oh well, c'est la vie.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Halloween Bash (Wood 130577 Clear 130580), Positively Chevron Background stamp (Wood 130496 Clear 130499)
Paper: Card stocks in Tangerine Tango, Rich Razzleberry, Basic Black and Whisper White
Ink: Classic Stampin' pad in Tangerine Tango (126946) and Basic Black (126980)
Accessories & Tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Chevron Embossing Folder (127749), Sponge Daubers (102892), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430) and Bat punch (retired)

Well, that is all I have for today. Thank you for stopping by.

Autumn Leaves

It was a very full and hectic first week of October. My sister and nephew came to visit last weekend. It was so wonderful to spend time with them. I see my nephew only a few times a year and each time, I am so amazed at how much bigger and smarter he gets. There was this one afternoon when he and my nieces were playing in my mom's backyard; and as I watched him walking towards me holding a balloon I was instantly transported to a time many years ago when my son was that little. I cannot believe he is now nineteen and out of the house. I miss him every single day. I always get so excited when he calls or when I receive a text message from him. I hope he calls more often. Then again I remember being that young and the last person I wanted to talk to was my mother. I always had an excuse such as school and work or that I was too busy hanging out with people whose names I don't even remember anymore. Lucky for me, my mom is still here. I hope my son knows this...that I will always be here for him.

My goodness, this year completely passed me by. Can you believe it will be Christmas in like two months! Oh well, I want to share this really simple and easy Autumn Leaves card. I love fall. I really do. I had an amazing Stamping Event yesterday. I get so inspired when the gals like the projects I prepare for them. We've been making Christmas cards, so I will be sharing them with you soon. It really depends on my photographer (daughter) who's always attached to her bed on weekends.

Card Recipe

Stamp set: Wonderfall (Wood 131949 Clear 128087)
Paper: Core'dinations Colorcore Card Stock in Early Espresso (127848) and Very Vanilla card stock (101650)
Ink: Classic stamp pads in Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Cajun Craze, Old Olive and More Mustard
Tools & Accessories: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Autumn Accents Bigz Die (127812), Spider Web Embossing folder (retired), Sponge Daubers (102892), Stampin' Sanding Block (129367), Early Espresso Baker's Twine (123124), Naturals Designer Buttons (127554), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Well, that's all for now. Have a great week, everyone. Thanks for stopping by.

Retired BNF Friday #22

I cannot believe that it had been six months since I posted a Retired BNF (But Not Forgotten) project. Shame on me, right? I am going to try my best to change that and not stay away too long.

I want to share with you this colorful birthday card. I used the Aviary stamp set and Everyday Enchantment DSP. I just love this color combination. I stamped the birdcage twice on Very Vanilla card stock, then cut it out and pop it up with stampin' dimensionals to give it a 3D effect.

 

Well, that is all I have for now. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone. Thank you for stopping by.

Black Magic Stamping Technique

Happy Fall, everyone! I just finished talking to my mom on the phone to greet her happy birthday. Mother Nature gave her a good birthday gift - it rained so she didn't need to water her plants. When I tell my co-workers that I talk to my mom at least twice a day, they probably think I have such a sad life. The truth is, I actually enjoy her company and I cherish her wisdom. We actually see each other almost every day because we walk together every afternoon. Twenty or so years ago, I wouldn't have anticipated I'd have a close relationship with my mother. God knows I'd always been such a difficult and strong-willed child. I fought with her every chance I got. I remember how sometimes even when I knew what she was asking me to do would be good for me, I would go the other way just to prove to her that she wasn't the boss of me. Now that my own children are older and willfully making decisions, I often feel what I put my mom through, and I have great kids! I hope none of them turns like me. Smile. And what is it about rolling of the eyes? It must have been a prerequisite to becoming a teenager. When my daughter gives me the "tone", you know the tone like you don't know anything, I seriously want to go on strike. Then she'd say, "Seriously, mother!" Oh well.

I have been inspired by a couple of technique videos I saw on Stampin' Connection called Black Magic, so I have been practicing. It was so much fun coloring. I was surprised how fairly easy it was, provided you have a good stamped image. I used one of my very favorite stamp sets called Morning Soft, basic black cardstock, white craft ink and water color pencils. Yesterday, with the sound of the rain in the background and sitting in my corner coloring, I felt completely at peace. I sat there thinking Someone in Heaven must love me, because I didn't even have to get out of my pajamas to be happy.

Well, that's all for now I must attend to my chores. We are going to take mom out to dinner tonight. Happy birthday to the strongest and bravest mother I know. Thank you for raising three strong and brave daughters.

Snowflake Soiree

I cannot believe I am already working on Christmas cards for my upcoming class. This year is going by way too quickly. I want to share one of the cards we will be making next month. I am still trying to decide which color combination to use.

Cards Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Snowflake Soiree and Delightful Dozen
Paper: Card stocks in Pool Party, Smoky Slate, Island Indigo and Shimmery White
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Pool Party, Island Indigo and Smoky Slate
Tools & Accessories:  1/2" Seam Binding ribbon in Pool Party, Rhinestones Basic Jewels and Stampin Dimensionals

Epic Birthday

I want to share with you one of the cards I swapped at convention last month. I had such a great time there. I enjoyed the company of other amazing demonstrators more than anything. It was very exhausting, lots of walking in Utah heat going back and forth between our hotel and the convention center, plus the getting in line to everything was worse than Disneyland during summer. There were so many, I mean TOO many demonstrators in attendance, because it was SU's 25th Anniversary. Every one got a prize from Prize Patrol and lots of other freebies, too. I hope to go again next year when it won't be as crowded.

 

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Best of Birthdays (132929)

Paper: Card stocks in Gumball Green, Pool Party and Very Vanilla, Epic Day This and That DSP (130814)

Ink: Classic Stamp' pad in Gumball Green (126861)

Tools & Accessories: Punches in Decorative Label (120907) and Extra-Large Oval (119859), 7/8" Natural Cotton Ribbon (127844), 3/8" Stitched Satin Ribbon Gumball Green  (126848), Linen Thread (104199), Glue Dots (103683) and Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Well, there you have it. I have more projects to share with you, just have not downloaded the pics. Have a wonderful week, everyone. Thank you for stopping by.

Wetlands

Last week I had an interesting conversation with a cashier that made me evaluate some things in my life. As this young man was processing my returns and purchases, I couldn't help but notice his accent. He had a sharp Southern twang in his voice that was familiar. He was very forthcoming and told me he's from North Carolina. I immediately told him he's a long way from home. I sensed the pain in his voice when he insisted, "No, Ma'am this is home. My mama died six years ago and her death estranged me from my daddy. This is home now." He's a sweet young man that I chose to ignore him calling me "Ma'am." Smile.

As I walked away to my car, I found myself uttering the word "estranged" because it was a foreign word to me and I have never used it to describe any relationships I've had in my life. Admittedly, I had to look up the meaning of it. Surely at forty-two years old, I have met many people and developed relationships that are no longer valid. The truth is, over the years I have only kept-in-touch with a few friends and even those my efforts have been mediocre. This made me sad. My very few "alleged" friends now are tied to my employment. Whether I accept it or not, these "so-called" friendships are tainted with some sort of distrust. It's difficult to cultivate loyalty with people when you're always afraid they might or might not sell you out when challenged. I've experienced this, often once the job ends, so does the friendship. Perhaps it should be called workship. It makes me wonder had it been for my job, would I even make an effort? Would they?  This worried me a little. What will happen a couple of decades from now when I am no longer working? Will my passion for stamps, papers and ink be enough to replace the camaraderie I will lose upon retirement? Oh well, chances are I will meet new people then who will also be old like me. I don't know what makes me more sad, losing friends or becoming old. Smile.

What really made me examine is my relationship with my father. Am I estranged from him? I do send him my handmade cards on special occasions and we exchange short and awkward phone calls a few times a year. But for the most part, we have not seen each other in years. So, I concluded that we are simply not close, but we are in-touch. Although, I often wish we could be more, I am content knowing that he is in my life no matter how faint. Right now just knowing he is out there and that if and when I choose to, I can hear his voice with a phone call or I can see him within hours... that is enough for me, for now. Because I know that there will come a time when this will no longer be possible and I have learned that regret is more painful than grief.

Oh well, for the past couple of weeks I have been working on swaps for the upcoming Stampin' Up! Convention. With less than four days away, the pressure is definitely on! I consider myself a pretty organized gal, however, there is still nothing like the eleventh hour to motivate me to get busy. I want to share one of the cards I made for swap. I made 45 of these. After the first ten I was kicking myself for not designing a simpler card. I was happy with the results, so no complaints here.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Wetlands (W 126695 C 126697)
Paper: Card stocks in Crushed Curry, Basic Black and Whisper White
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Basic Black, Pear Pizzazz, Pool Party, Crushed Curry, Night of Navy and Cajun Craze
Tools & Accessories: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Honeycomb Embosing Folder (129378), Large Oval (119855) and Scallop Oval (119856) punches, Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), 3/4" Chevron Ribbon in Crushed Curry (130019), Aqua Painters (103954) and Sponge Daubers (102892)

That's all for now. Have a great week, everyone!

Swallowtail

I am truly sorry for being such a delinquent blogger lately. I have been so busy at work that when I get home the last thing I want to do is sit in front of the computer. I could tell that I am still recuperating from my illness. It is evident that I am not 100% well yet, because I still feel very exhausted. Life goes on, though and work definitely does not even slow down no matter how I feel. "Work to live, not live to work", I kept reminding myself.

Well, it has been scorching hot here in northern California the past week. I spent my weekend indoors with the AC and fans on and worked on my swaps for the upcoming convention. I want to share with you a card I made to swap using this very nice Swallowtail stamp. It was simple and easy to make, but not when one had to make fifty of the same cards.

Card Recipe

Stamp set(s): Swallowtail (W 131943 C 129216), Trust God (W132094 C 126702), Papillon Potpourri (W 132058 C 123759)
Paper: Card stocks in Whisper White and Marina Mist
Ink: Classic stampin' pad in Marina Mist
Accessories & tools: Punches in Decorative Label (120907), Extra Large Oval (119859) and Bitty Butterfly (129406), Rhinestones Basic Jewels (119246), 5/8" Organza ribbon in Whisper White (114319), Sponge Daubers (102892), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Well, that's all for now. Thank you for stopping by. Have a good week, everyone!

Father's Day 2013

I apologize for being MIA the past few weeks. I have been very ill and in horrible pain the last nine days. I am going to spare you the details. Besides I really have no words to describe what I went through. This morning was the very first time in a while that I felt a little better. I am still very exhausted, but I am hoping that complete recovery is ahead.

I made this card a month ago using the stamp set called Countryside (now retired), but never had the chance to share with you. So, here it is. I heat embossed the image using Versa mark ink pad and Early Espresso embossing powder.

Well, I am going to cut this post short. My couch is calling my name. Happy Father's Day to all of the wonderful dads out there. Thank you for stopping by.

Beautiful Birthday

I just finished reading this book titled, The Art of the Handwritten Note by Margaret Shepherd. I found it quite enchanting. Yes, you read it right...it was an enchanting read. So much so that I ran to Office Depot in search for a fountain pen and ordered a set of stationery, determined to reclaim my love for handwritten letters. I am so fortunate that I knew what it was like to receive handwritten letters from friends and love letters in a scented stationery from a very special boy (who years later became my husband). Believe it or not, I have a suitcase full of letters and mementos from the 1980's. My husband and I wrote so many letters to each other back in the day, especially when he was still in the Philippines and I moved to United States. The World Wide Web was not around yet, and we relied on ridiculously expensive overseas phone calls and snail mails to communicate. My very little paychecks and that of my mother's went to the phone company. I can still feel the anticipation and excitement of checking the mail box every day hoping to find a letter or letters from him and from friends back home. I also wrote to him every day that I got to know the lady named Cathy at the post office, which was nothing more than a tiny closet at a Home Federal bank.

How fast time has changed. With the invention of the internet, texting and social media, it seems no one takes the time and effort to hand write notes and letters any longer. We've traded art for convenience. Yet, here I am with my handmade cards. I've heard people call it a waste of time. I just hope the wonderful people I send them to do not think so. I hope they feel appreciated and special that in this day and age I still take the time to create something to show that I am thinking of them.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Beautiful Birthday (125562)
Paper: Tea for Two DSP (129311), Card stocks in Calypso Coral and Very Vanilla
Ink: Classic Stampin' pad in Calypso Coral
Tools & Accessories:  Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Ovals Collection Framelits Dies (129381), Paper Doilies Tea Lace (129399), 5/8" Flower Trim (126869), Large Pearl Basic Jewels (125577), Sponge Daubers (102892), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), glue dots (103683)

Thank you for stopping by. I hope you had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

Quint-Essential Birthday

Due to my computer flaking out on me, I have not been able to share with you the cards we made during my Feminine Cards class last month. I will try and post them in the next few days. This one right here was so much fun to put together. Don't you just love the bright colors? It was really quite simple and easy to make. Thank goodness for the clever invention of punches. We stamped the Quint-Essential stamp 3x and then punched them out and stack them giving the 3D look.

I am making some changes in my monthly card making classes effective June 1st. I need to find a way to use up my stash of retired Stampin' Up! products, so I decided that an A la Carte Stamping Event is the best route. I am very optimistic that my customers will like it. If you are interested in joining us, please go to My Online Store to check it out.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Quint-Essential (126790), Teeny Tiny Wishes (W 115370 C 127802)

Paper: Summer Smooches DSP (125409), Card stocks in Tempting Turquoise, Rich Razzleberry, Lucky Limeade, Real Red and Whisper White

Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Tempting Turquoise, Rich Razzleberry and Daffodil Delight

Tools & Accessories: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Chevron Embossing Folder (127749), Punches in Word Window (119857), Modern Label (119849), 2-3/8" and 1-3/4" Scallop Circle and 1" Circle, 5/8" Organza Ribbon Whisper White (114319), Grosgrain Daffodil Ribbon (retired), 3/16" Brights Brads (119740), Glue Dots (103683) and Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Well, that's all for today's post. Have a wonderful Thursday, everyone! Thank you for stopping by.

Summer Solstice

I had such an amazing "Retirement Class" last Saturday, where I featured retiring stamp sets, ink pads, papers and other embellishments in my SAS (Stamp-a-Stack). It was my last class for this catalog year. While I was busy making gifts for everybody, I realized that every single one of these amazing gals (except my mom, she is amazing, too) started out to be a stranger and now I sincerely consider them as friends. I feel very blessed and I really appreciate their support by creating with me every month. I want to share with you the cards I made for them. I just love this stamp set called Summer Solstice. Sadly, it will be retired as of June 3rd, 2013. The Note Cards & Envelopes are such big help when I'm creating multiples of the same cards.

The sentiment on this card is spot on. We'll never know when a stranger will turn into a friend.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Summer Solstice (W 122024 C 122037)

Paper: Note Cards & Envelopes (107311), Card stocks in Summer Starfruit, Primrose Petals and Gumball Green

Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Summer Starfruit, Primrose Petals, Gumball Green and Midnight Muse (for the sentiment)

Well, that's it for now. Thank you for stopping by. 

Mother's Day 2013

I apologize that I have been absent. I've been having technical problems with my computer and could not post. My daughter kept telling me it's time to replace it with a new one. Easy for her to say, she doesn't have to pay for it. Haha. Oh well, happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful moms out there, especially to my dear mom. My sister and nephew are in town, so all of us have been spending time together at my mom's. We are going to just hang-out today and grill. I am sure restaurants will be so busy and we refuse to join the crowds.

I am so in-love with this Swallowtail stamp. Then again, I love anything with butterflies on it. I didn't think I was going to like this because the image is huge, but I saw other Stampin' Up! demonstrators share their beautiful work using it and I had to have it. With the Pretty in Pink color retiring I had to use it on this card for my mom. I heat embossed the image with black craft ink (also retiring) and it really turned out so pretty.

Don't you just love the faux suede flowers on this huge butterfly?

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Swallowtail (W 129213 C 129216)
Paper: Card stocks in Pretty in Pink and Basic Black, First Edition Specialty DSP (121878)
Ink: Craft Stampin' Pad in Basic Black (102192), Pretty in Pink and Basic Gray Classic stampin' pads
Tools & Accessories: Heat Tool (129053), Stampin' Emboss Powder in Clear (109130), Sponge Daubers (102892), Fancy Flower Punch (118073), 5/8" Crochet Trim ribbon Victoria (118481), 3/8" Basic Glimmer Brads (121003), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430).

Well, that is all I have for today. Thank you for stopping by. Happy Mother's Day!

Triple Time Stamping

I have recently discovered the triple time stamping technique from the fabulous Dawn Olschefske and I must say I have been stamping 3x the fun lately. I had no idea how easy it was to do. So, I want to share a couple of cards that I made using the Creative Elements stamp set. Same layout just different color card stocks and ink. I found out that it's much better to use solid image stamps on this technique. I taught the gals how to do this a couple of weeks ago during class and they too, were amazed at how easy and pretty their cards turned out.

This one using Calypso Coral ink pad and Friendly Phrases stamp set.

This one using the "retiring" Regal Rose" and Wonderful Mother stamp set.

Well, that is all I have to share for today. I have errands and chores. I took it pretty easy yesterday so I am going to be busy today to make up for it. Sigh. Have a wonderful week, everyone. Thank you for stopping by.

Elements of Style

Have you ever felt like you just needed a time-out? A break from your duties and chores and just stay in your pajamas all day? I'm sure you have. Well, I did just that yesterday. I gave myself a well-deserved and much needed time-out. I made cards ALL DAY. The laundry did not get done, the house did not get cleaned, I did not turn on the stove or the TV. It was a very good day. I just stamped all day and sorted all the colors (card stocks and inks) that will be retired end of next month. I am not too bummed with the color change this year. I am actually very happy that Stampin' Up! will bring back some of my favorite colors. I just don't know how painful it will be when they announce the stamp sets that will be retiring. I really thought I was not going to recover last year because almost my entire shelf got retired. I whined and rant for a couple of weeks, but life went on like always. I was so discouraged that I almost gave-up my SU demonstrator status. However, with my friends' loyalty and support I am still here and ever so grateful that I will be going to convention this summer.

One of my very favorites is Elements of Style stamp set. When I want to feel like a true artist and pretend I have the ability to paint a masterpiece, this is my go to set. We will be making this in class next week. I did not put any sentiment so that it can be used for whatever occasion. I also used two colors that will be retiring, Bashful Blue and Certainly Celery.

Flowers are heat embossed with black craft ink and embossing powder.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Elements of Style (Wood 118611 Clear 120045)
Paper: Card stocks in Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery and Whisper White
Ink: Craft Stampin' pad in Basic Black (102192), Classic stampin' pad in Bashful Blue for sponging the edges, Stampin' Write markers in Bashful Blue and Certainly Celery (105106)
Accessories & tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Embossing Folder in Lacy Brocade (127819), Stampin' Emboss Powder in Clear (109130) and Iridescent Ice (101930), 3/16" Corner Rounder punch (119871), sponge daubers (102892), 3/8" Tafetta Ribbon in Bashful Blue (retired) and Stampin' Dimensionals (104430).

I used the same exact layout on this one, just took out the ribbon and added a sentiment. Not Quite Navy and River Rock will be retiring also. I think this combo will be a really nice Sympathy card.

 

Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Elements of Style (Wood 118611 Clear 120045), Blooming with Kindness (Wood 126420 Clear 126422)
Paper: Card stocks in Not Quite Navy, River Rock and Whisper White
Ink: Craft Stampin' pad in Basic Black (102192), Classic Stampin' pad in Not Quite Navy (126971), Stampin' Write markers in Not Quite Navy and River Rock
Accessories & tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Embossing Folder in Lacy Brocade (127819), Stampin' Emboss Powder in Clear (109130) and Iridescent Ice (101930), Punches in 3/16" Corner Rounder (119871), 1 1/4" Circle (119861), 1 3/8" Circle (119860), sponge daubers (102892) and Stampin' Dimensionals (104430).

Thank you to Carolyn Bennett for sharing this with us at SCS.

That's it for now. Thank you for stopping by.

Happy Easter Everybunny

Happy Easter, everyone! This will be a short post because we have to go to my mom's for a late lunch today. It rained all night. The lightning and thunder fascinated my daughter that she kept on looking out the window. I always sleep better when it's raining that's why I sort of had a slow start to my Sunday.

 

 

I used the Everybunny stamp set (W 122705 C 122707). Aren't they the cutest? I really love this set and I have used them the past couple of years. The images are perfect for coloring with markers, aqua painters or blender pens. I hope it does not get included in the retired list. Well, that is all for now. Have a wonderful Easter Sunday, folks! Thank you for stopping by.

Easter Blessings

I apologize that I have been absent. I was busy with so many things, but what really kept me from posting was I felt so disconnected. I functioned on auto-pilot, went with the flow and motion of things...yet felt empty. Have you ever felt like that? Oh well, my son came home this weekend. Although, we did not see much of him because he attended a dance event in town, his presence was just what I needed. I waited up for him Friday night and as soon as he walked in and we hugged, I immediately felt this happiness enveloped me. Sharing a meal with both my kids, joking around and catching-up...priceless. Oh, the simple joys of motherhood.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Easter Blessings (129183), Papillon Potpourri (W 123757 C 123759)
Paper: Card stocks in Calypso Coral, Wisteria Wonder, Lucky Limeade and Very Vanilla
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade and Wisteria Wonder
Accessories & tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Lacey Brocade Embossing Folder (127819), Labels Collection Framelits (125598), Little Leaves Sizzlits (114511), Bitty Butterfly Punch (129406), 5/8" Vanilla Flower Trim (126869), Rhinestone Basic Jewels (119247), Paper Piercing tool (126189), Festive Paper Piercing pack (127857), Stampin' Pierce Mat (126199), Glue Dots (103683), Sponge Daubers (102892) and Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

 

 Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Mixed Bunch (W 125535 C 125537), Easter Blossoms (retired)
Paper: Card stocks in Pool Party, Summer Starfruit and Whisper White, Sycamore Street DSP
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Pool Party, Summer Starfruit and Rich Razzleberry
Accessories & tools: Punches in Blossom (125603), 3/16" Corner Rounder (119871) and 3/4" Circle (119873), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

 Well, that's it for now. I wish you all a wonderful and blessed Easter. Thank you for stopping by.

Happy Birthday, Cupcake!

Happy Sunday, everyone! I am running behind today. I would like to think it's due to the Daylight Savings Time. Then again, I really had a lazy morning. Oh well, two more weeks left before Sale-a-Bration (SAB) ends, so I am sharing a birthday card using one of the stamp sets from the SAB catalog called Patterned Occasions.

 

 Card Recipe

Stamp Set: Patterned Occasions (W 129621 C 129624 SAB), Distressed Dots (122815)

Paper: Card stocks in Real Red, Pool Party and Whisper White

Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Real Red and Pool Party

Accessories & tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Adorning Accents Edgelits (125595), Punches in 2 1/2" Circle (120906), 2 3/8 Scallop Circle (118874) and Dotted Scallop Circle, Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Glue Dots (103683), 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon in Pool Party (122975) and Paper Snips (103579)

Thank you for stopping by.

Retired BNF Friday #21

Happy Friday, everyone! I have been busy organizing my paper scraps. If you're a paper crafter like me, I am sure you know what I mean when I say that my box of paper scraps have become almost unmanageable. I made it a goal to sort all the colors out, put them in individual folders with labels. Hopefully now I will use them...because I can see them. I love pretty papers and I just hate when they go to waste or left unused. So, I decided to make some Hershey Nugget goodies using scraps from last year's Sale-a-bration Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper to share with you today.

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Tea Shoppe (W 125545 C 125547), Oval All
Paper: Everyday Enchantment DSP
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Poppy Parade, Lucky Limeade, Calypso Coral and Basic Black
Accessories & tools: Punches in Large Oval (119855), Scallop Oval (119856), 1 1/4" Circle (119860), 1 3/8" Circle (119860), Blossom (125603) and Curly Label (119851), Assorted ribbons, Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), 3/16" Neutral Brads (119736) and Pearl Basic Jewels (119247)

Well, that's it for now. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone and remember to change your clocks this Saturday night - Spring Forward!

Bloomin' Marvelous Easter

Easter cards already? Really! This year is going by too fast. We have been getting spring like weather here in Northern California. I turned off our heat two days ago. Aughhh, I am not looking forward to hot days. I am a sweater/scarf kind of girl.

I had a good few days, watching my salt intake and drinking lots of water. I am so thankful each morning when I wake-up pain free. I was busy yesterday preparing for my upcoming Spring/Easter class next week. I thought I'd best take advantage of the Bloomin' Marvelous stamp set from the Sale-a-Bration catalog, since this awesome promotion will end March 22, 2013.

I had so much fun creating this card. I am certain the gals will love all the projects they will put together in class next week. I am really enjoying all the Sale-a-Bration items in this year's catalog. There is still time to get a free item with your $50.00 order. Just go to My Online Store to shop.

 

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Bloomin' Marvelous (W 129651 C 129654 SAB), En Francais (109521), Well Scripted (retired)
Paper: Card stocks in Pink Pirouette, Melon Mambo and Shimmery White
Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Melon Mambo, Pink Pirouette and Certainly Celery
Accessories & tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Adorning Accents Edgelits (125595), Punches in 1 1/4 " Square (119865), Scallop Square (119884), Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border and Bitty Butterfly (129406), Sponge Daubers (102892), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Rhinestone Basic Jewels (119246)

Well, that's it for today, folks! Have a fantastic Sunday. Thank you for stopping by.

From My Heart

It has been quite sometime since I shared an experience with you, so I am going to take advantage of this post and do just that. Yesterday morning as I was standing by my kitchen sink about to do the dishes before I went to work, I suddenly felt this very sharp, stabbing pain on the lower left side of my back. Sadly, I was not surprised, as it was a familiar pain. I was having this pain late last year and found out it was caused by a kidney stone. I thought I somehow miraculously passed it since I have not felt any pain in a couple of months. It returned with a vengeance. I quickly grabbed the bottle of my pain medication and took one with half a glass of water. From my kitchen I crawled to the living room couch while sobbing and calling out my dead grandmother while praying, "Please God, don't let me die today because it was my sister's birthday." As soon as I got to the couch, I sent a text to my husband and told him of my situation and that I should probably call 911. Then I managed to phone my sister to greet her and carried on a ten minute conversation with her about her birthday plans. I told her I loved her and prayed that it was not the last time I'd get to tell her that. I took another pain pill hoping they would kick in soon before I pass out. By then I knew I wasn't going to be able to drive to work, so I phoned my boss and told him I was not well and will not be in. My hubby showed-up shortly after that and told me we were going to the hospital. I did not argue.

I was seen right away by a nurse who took my information, my vitals, gave me a shot of Toradol, which wiped away the pain in nano seconds. It was like magic, to slowly feel the pain dissipate from my exhausted body...it was awesome. I was at that very moment so grateful for the brilliant people who invented pain medications. After the CT scan and blood work, my hubby and I waited in the lobby for the results and then waited some more for a vacant room so we could see a doctor. We waited for nine hours. I kept thinking I could have gone to work or drove to Vegas in all that time! I reminded myself of what my son always told my daughter, "Patience is a virtue." My patience surely got tested all day. Thank goodness to the Pinterest app on my phone which kept me busy. I pinned like a mad woman. The Stampin' Up! catalog that I keep in my car also saved me. I took my time looking at every page, made a wish list and looked at it some more.

A couple of days ago I was complaining to my hubby that we never go out on dates or do anything together. Well, we sat next to each other for a whole nine hours, we talked, laughed at other people (sorry, but we needed entertainment), we took a nap on each others' shoulders, held hands and shared a meal courtesy of the vending machines. It was definitely not my idea of a dream date, but I was with my dream guy and I was pretty happy. I have never been more grateful for his company. I learned a few things about myself yesterday. I learned that I could be such a snob. I did not talk to anyone else the entire time. Me, chatty Cathy who can approach a stranger in a circus! I kept to myself because...I am ashamed to admit that I didn't feel like anyone there was worth my time. Then again, perhaps I was just unwell and didn't feel like starting a conversation with anyone. I can be such a germ freak. I was afraid to touch anything. I learned that if I get stranded in an island, I would pick my husband of two decades to take with me. We can laugh at anything. He is my better half and without him, I'd just be flappin' around incomplete. I learned that I will know better next time and not return to the ER unless I am bleeding to death or nearly dying. I've never appreciated my iPhone more than I did yesterday. I am glad that I have books downloaded in it and my apps served me well. Mostly, I learned that I need to take better care of myself or else my husband will take someone else to an island :-).

Sentiment is from the stamp set From My Heart (W 126555 C 126557)

That's all I have for today. Good night and thank you for stopping by.

PS: There was no McDreamy in the ER.

Sycamore Street x 2

I apologize for my delayed supposedly Sunday's post. We went on a very short vacation and took advantage of the three-day weekend. You know how vacations get, especially the quick ones...very exhausting. Anyway, I am sharing with you a couple of cards using the Sycamore Street Designer Series Paper pack. Like I said a couple of weeks ago, I am so in-love with the designs and colors of this DSP. I want to show you how versatile the items from this year's SAB catalog are. Same layout for these two cards, different messages. Easy and simple! Remember that you can get SAB items free with a $50.00 Stampin' Up! order. Sale-a-bration will end March 22, 2013. 

flower stamped twice and punched out, popped with dimensional

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Madison Avenue (W 129657 C 129660 SAB), Made For You (W 126340 C 126342)

Paper: Sycamore Street DSP (127540 SAB), Card stocks in Summer Startfruit, Rich Razzleberry, Tangerine Tango, Island Indigo and Whisper White

Ink: Classic Stampin' pads in Pool Party, Rich Razzleberry and Tangerine Tango

Accessories & tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Labels Collection Framelits (125598), Vine Street Textured Embossing Folder (130492 SAB), Punches in Word Window (119857), 1" Circle, Itty Bitty Shapes pack (118309), Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border (119275), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Card Recipe

Stamp Set(s): Vintage Verses (W 129633 C 129636 SAB)

Paper: Sycamore Street DSP (127540 SAB), Card stocks in Summer Startfruit, Rich Razzleberry, Tangerine Tango, Island Indigo and Whisper White

Ink: Classic Stampin' pad in Rich Razzleberry

Accessories & tools: Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439), Labels Collection Framelits (125598), Vine Street Textured Embossing Folder (130492 SAB), Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punch (119275), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Festive Paper Piercing pack (127857), Rhinestone Basic Jewels (119246), Paper Piercing tool (126189), Stampin' Pierce mat (126199)

Happy Wednesday, everyone! Thank you for stopping by.