DT Thursday with the CSDivas (sorry I'm late)

Have you stopped over to visit the Creative Scrapbooking Divas' MANSION recently???   If not, you've missed some really neat tips and tutorials and some wonderful inspiration by all of the DT.  Be sure to stop over today and browse the latest posts!!!

Yesterday was my day to highlgiht Home Decor/Gifts.  I haven't been feeling very well, so I am a day late sharing my posting.....sorry!

Here it is:


***Sorry, if this post is a bit hard to follow.  I have just started feeling the effects of the miserable Ohio Head Cold that I get at least once a year and I feel a bit cloudy as I am writing this***

As I mentioned during my last post of Autumn Splendor, I love to dabble in many crafts other than paper crafting.  I thought this would be a good opportunity to share with you a few of the Autumn wreaths I created last year.  I think the only reason I haven't gotten my wreath goodies out, is because they are tucked away, in a corner, under my craft table.  Not easily accessible.  And, honestly, I have been loving working with paper and digis and all things card and scrappy related (he he he).

I have often thought I should gather the wreaths, lights, flowers, and lovely additional creative goodies to work on a wreath or two (or ten).  Maybe this post will motivate me to do just that.


Here are a few of the ones I took pictures of before handing out to family, friends, and neighbors.

This one was given to our wonderful neighbors

My daughter made this one (it's actually a tear-shaped basket, not a wreath)

I don't recall exactly where this one ended up, but I just adored the scarecrows on it!

 

Because I am feeling a bit under the weather, I apologize for not getting the RECIPE specs or the tutorial up and going along with this post.  However, if you are interested in learning a few tricks of completing a wreath yourself, I will gladly give you all the details.  Just leave a comment here and I will work on getting the info to you!

I am so happy that you joined us today...YOU ARE DIVALICIOUS!!!

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Steampunk Victoria - SSD Relay Challenge #3

Good Evening all of my lovely friends.  After a rigorous morning (to the doctor with 4 sick kids, then to the outpatient lab at the hospital so 2 of them could get some tests done, a flu shot for one, and a prescription for another) I felt lucky to even have time to work on any crafts at all.

This week, I have been participating in the fun Progressive Challenge over at Sassy Studio Design.  For challenge #1, we were given a free digital image (that has not yet been released) and told to make a creation using the image.  In order to get the second image, this challenge had to be completed.  Then once the second challenge was completed we were given the third image.  This image was the main focus of today's creation.  Her name is Steampunk Victoria.  Isn't she darling???  For challenge #3, the little "twist" was to make the card vintage theme.

RECIPE is below the challenges list

Even though I was one week behind at Dutch Dare Challenges, I loved last week's sketch and had to use it.  Then looking at the sketch over at The Outlawz, the sketch the for Wednesday Sketch Challenge,  I noticed it was quite similar with only a few dissimilarities.  So, that is the sketch challenge I will be entering with this creation.
Here are the challenges I am entering with this card:
Sassy Studio Design - Progressive Challenge #3
 Cricut Cardz - CardzTV - #93 Think Pink
Creative Inspiration #134 - Monochromatic
Whimsy Stamps - #11 make your own flowers
Emerald Faerie Garden - #11 Flowers, Flowers, Flowers


RECIPE
Base - chocolate brown card stock
Large background paper is KaiserCraft - Pennyroyale Evelyn
Gear image collage behind image and mat was found on the internet.  I didn't mark down the site, but will try to credit the location a little later :O)
Image background is the opposite side of the KaiserCraft paper mentioned above
Steampunk Victoria was colored with Whisper Strokes
Sentiment by Whimsy Stamps Wild Side Tickets
Lace Ribbon is by MME
Brown rosette flower was made by Marti at Essence of Paper
Pink roses around the bottom  were handmade by ME (cut 2 1/2" circles from Classic Font, then trimmed and rolled)
Flower up top was handmade by ME (trimming wire from 2 1/2" wire ribbon, tying a few knots, then rolling and gluing and finishing off with a vintage button)
Some inking around sentiment and gear collage using Studio G and Darice stamps

Bling and pearls from stash

Here is the card I created for the Progressive Relay Challenge #1 using Steampunk Josephine:

Here is the original post if you would like details on the RECIPE

Here is the card I created for the Progressive Relay Challenge #2 using Steampunk Amelia:

 Here is the original post if you would like details on the RECIPE


Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Steampunk Amelia Card

Wow, I felt quite overwhelmed today.  I tried to think of how I would begin my creation for the Sassy Studio Designs Progressive Challenge #2, and all I could do was print the image out.  I hit a brick wall with being creative.  I reluctantly went back to my trusty list of challenges for some help.  I say reluctantly because I didn't want to break my goal.  So, after scanning the list, I am breaking my goal that I set to complete One Creation for One Challenge.  :O(

I had originally set this goal because I felt like I was being greedy by entering so many challenges.  I know, I know, a lot of you are saying "It isn't greed".  I get that now.  I wasn't aiming to win.   Looking on the brighter side, I realize that if a challenge inspires me to create, then I SHOULD announce which challenges have helped.  THEY should get the credit for the inspiration and word should spread about their blog so that others may also be inspired.  After all, that is why there are challenges, and that is why many of us create.  To hopefully help or inspire others to create, too.

Here is my card (available for purchase HERE):

 RECIPE

~ Kraft cs for base - 4" X 9"

~ Black with small gray dots dp - cut 3.75" x 8.75

then sanded around edges

~ Frame cut from Lacy Labels at 4" (Flower1: Layer)

~ Frame (paper) is Cosmo Cricket Fleuriste: Maize  Twist & Shout

~ Image from Sassy Studio Designs printed on desert cs, colored with Whisper Strokes,

inked with green Studio G, then added Glossy Accents to goggles and eyes

~ Pocket watch  image and sentiment are by Beyond The Fringe

(I had to trim the sentiment down the middle to fit the card better)

~ Small strip at bottom - c'oredinations (gray) ~slightly torn

~ Metal embellishment moon by Darice - Celestial Charms

~ Rhinestone in center of clock

~ Sentiment is printed on star paper ( not sure of brand because they were scraps)

slightly sanded around edges

~ 4 metal brads in a pea green and pale green around sentiment

~ Fiber/ribbon is by Darice

~ Steampunk Amelia, sentiment, and pocket watch are all popped up on 3D foam adhesive

So without hesitation, I now announce the challenges that have inspired my creations.  And without guilt or  feeling "greedy", because I now understand the true meaning behind why I enter so many challenges on a regular basis.  It is not to win, or be greedy, but to be inspired and to inspire others.

Challenges
1. Sassy Studio Designs Progressive Challenge #2
use Steampunk Amelia in a creation & use a clock and/or gears
2. Birthday Sundaes - #31
Tall/Long card (must be birthday with sentiment)
3. Stamptacular Sundays - #134 
You Choose (AG)
4. Whoopsi Daisy
Free and Easy (AG)
5. Fab n Funky - #95
Distressed and/or Torn
6. Celebrate the Occasion - #35
Male Birthday (be sure to use metal)
7. Sweet Stamps #37
Lots of layers

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

ABC Christmas Challenge - "U" is for Unused Stash

This is a friendly reminder to let you know there is still time to play along with the ABC Christmas Challenge blog.  The current challenge is "U" is for Unused Stash and it will be ending on October 25th.

If you are looking to use up some scraps or items you have had that you have been hoarding, why not join in on the challenge.  Additionally, you are getting a good start on all your Christmas "To-Do" creations.

I am honored to have been invited to be a Guest Designer at ABC Christmas Challenge.  I won a Guest Design spot while participating in the Feline Playful Blog Hop in September 2011.    Both sites are full of wonderful talent and inspiration and I suggest you check them out and consider becoming a follower of each of their blogs.

The wonderful sponsors for this challenge include:

For my creation, I chose to create a card using the following unused items:

-Christmas Print paper - double sided (snowflakes on one side and polka dots on the other) whichI had won in a Blog Candy giveaway earlier this year
-Christmas Ornament embellishments also won as a RAK for completing a challenge at Creative Scrapbooking Divas
-Blue print paper is from a stack I have had for many, many years


Here is my creation:

I would like to enter this project at the following challenges:
Just Some Lines - Reminds me of a Song

Looking forward to seeing everyone's wonderful creations.  Please stop by all of the Design Team posts for extra inspiration and to drop some Love in the form of Comments.  

!!! BLOG CANDY ALERT!!!

I will be offering one lucky ENTRANT, a set of 5 of my handmade design pins** to use in your projects!

 **(pins to be won may vary slightly from those shown)

To be eligible to win my Blog Candy Giveaway (you must complete all three steps):
1 - Please be a follower of my blog and leave a comment below.
2 - Stop by ABC Challenge blog and become a follower.  Come back here to leave another comment telling me you follow them.
3 - Participate in the challenge and submit your project by the deadline.  Stop back here one more time and let my know you are participating in the challenge.


Happy Crafting to you All!!!
:O)
Jessica

Kristal at K Andrew Designs: Getting Cricky ***NEW STAMPS***

Kristal is at it again.  She has been super busy creating some new stamps that will be released the beginning of November.  There is a sneak peek over at her blog today and you DON'T WANNA MISS it.  The new stamps include images and sentiments and they are super darling. 

She is having a wonderful giveaway today as well.  Hurry, Hurry....head over to Getting Cricky with K Andrew to see what I am talking about!!!!

For those of you who would like to join Kristal's team of inspiration, she is having a Design Team Call also.  All the details for joining in on the fun are HERE!!!  She has some wonderful perks for those who join the team!!!

Don't forget, there is a monthly blog hop that takes place at Getting Cricky every 3rd Friday of the month. 

 Friday, October 21st is the next Hop and a PREORDER party, too!!  WOOT WOOT!!

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Steampunk Josephine for Sassy Studio Designs

It just now dawned on me, that I have finished 3 separate projects today!!!  ***dancing the cabbage patch***  Wow, what an eventful day full of crafty goodness.  I was also able to finish 4 posts to highlight the 3 creations and give a grand announcement THANK YOU shout out to some deserving Blends.  On top of completing projects, I kept within my goal: One Project 4 One Challenge!!!! ***dancing the running man***

This next card was completed using a FREE digital image at Sassy Studio Designs.  They are celebrating reaching 500 followers and are offering a free digital image to be used in a Progressive Relay Challenge.  If you use the first image in a creation, before the deadline of the first challenge (which is 3 hours from the time of this post), then you will get the 2nd image free as well, to use in the next challenge.  Then the same goes for the third and fourth images to be used in the corresponding challenges.  Sounds like fun....COUNT ME IN!

I knew exactly what I wanted to do with Steampunk Josephine as soon as I saw her.   The first thing that came to mind, was that she resembled a time traveler.  I colored her with my Dual Tip, Whisper Strokes Watercolor markers.  Then I printed out some more digis from Carmen at Beyond The Fringe.  These digis had steampunk written all over them.  The first was a bicycle with the front wheel resembling a clock and the second is the sentiment.  I added dimension by using 3D foam adhesive for Josephine and placing some metallic sun and star charms around the sentiment.  The bottom strip is from the c'oredinations strips I received from my dear MIL.  The base is a chocolate brown dual sided card stock.

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Havre de Grace 2002 - The Paper Variety #55

These vacation photos were long overdo to be made into a layout.  I still have a lot more photos to put into layouts, but focused on these first.  The vacation to Havre de Grace was back in 2002 (that is way overdo...I know, I know).  I didn't do much scrap booking back then, and have just recently had ample time to do it.  The challenge over at The Paper Variety #55 is Ocean-Sea-Nautical.  So I figured, what better time to get this project underway.  The Maryland sticker was purchased quite a few years back at Pat Catan's (our local craft store) and the embellishments and stickers were purchased at a Dollar Tree (back when they still carried Scrappy Goodness in Ohio).

The first page is the beginning page to the series.  The photo was taken near the Lock House at the Susquehanna River:

The second and third pages were dedicated to our first Ocean/Beach adventure to Atlantic City. 

The top two photos on page 1, were taken in sequence and pieced together (at a matching point) to show the Boardwalk and Beach.  I loved the sailboat and birds and had to add them, too.  The diamond shaped picture was an adorable boat that boasted 'Atlantic City' and was begging to have its picture taken.

The three photos on the right highlight not only my daughter's first trip to the Ocean, but mine as well.  She was so eager to jump in the water.  She boogie boarded like a pro and I was so very proud of her!!!

What a wonderful vacation full of memories.  I am eager to get some of the other pictures into Layouts now (Susquehanna River and Park; Deep sea fishing on the Chesapeake Bay; Ocean City; Fort McHenry; and of course, Havre de Grace lighthouse pictures)

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Makin' It to the Mailbox Monday #1 (Announcement)

So many times I have received a very generous prize from a dear friend via BlogLand.  Whether it be just a simple RAK (Random Act of Kindness), a prize for winning a challenge, or Blog Candy for whatever occasion.  Unfortunately, I have been horrible about my blogging etiquette (thanks for bringing me up to speed Sonia SV) and did not give a proper shout out "THANK YOU" to those who really deserved it.  For that, I deeply apologize.  I do not want you to think that I am ungrateful or don't care about the people behind the Magic of Making My Day!!!

So for that, I want to take this opportunity to shout a huge

 

to all of you who did not get the proper greeting prior to now!

Please know, that I am grateful for all of your generosity.

Starting today, this fine Monday, I am beginning a new installment of Makin' it to the Mailbox Mondays, where I will give a proper shout out to the generosity I have experienced first hand each and every week!  I hope you will take the opportunity to visit all of the wonderful and talented bloggers that I mention each week, to see their beautiful creations.  Those of you who know me, know I wouldn't steer you in the wrong direction.  There is so much to see and all of these fine ARTISTS are just a click away!!!

First up, I would like to offer a sincere THANK YOU to Amy at Love To Crop and Rhonda @ Scrap Happens for their combined generosity.   During the first few weeks of the challenge blog Decorate to Celebrate, they were having a Grand Announcement Giveaway contest. The final winner would receive their choice of a $50 gift certificate to Creative Memories or a "SUPRISE" gift box full of goodies.  Being the winner of the giveaway, I chose the CM certificate.  I was in desperate need of a new cutting board and blades, as I had been using the same CM mat and blades for almost10 years now.  Here is the wonderful prize package I ordered with the $50. . .

It has been used extensively since I received it...THANK YOU AGAIN GIRLS!

I also want to take the time to say THANK YOU to dear Rhonda @ Scrap Happens for the wonderful Mini Album I received for being the comment winner in her Monthly Drawing for August.  If you aren't familiar with Rhonda's work, specifically her talent at designing mini albums, you are really missing out.  Head over there now to browse her blog and see for yourself.

Front

Last page

The next well deserved THANK YOU goes to Karen at Your Next Stamp.  I stumbled upon this blog fairly recently and have been hooked ever since.  I love their images and their challenges are always so much fun.  I have been fortunate to win twice (Challenge #49 & Challenge #50 ) at this site and love their stamps.  They are crisp and adorable, no smudging, and a great purchase for sure.   Be sure to visit the store while you are there!

Challenge #49 - I won Monkey Gone Bananas

 

Challenge #50 - I won Boris from Russia

Another THANK YOU goes to Ana at Shorty Creations for her generosity during the Wild and Fabulous Blog Hop in September.  I was a comment winner for her Blog Candy which was this adorable set of PK Stamps:

I have a ton of ideas mulling around in my head for how to use these cutie pie stamps!  My first set ever of Peach Keen!  WOO HOO!

Today, I went to the mailbox and was greeted by, not one, but two lovely packages.  WHO DOESN'T LOVE THAT?  That, along with my dear friend Sonia's post of her winnings, is what inspired the idea behind this weekly installment of Makin' it to the Mailbox Mondays.

The first THANK YOU from today's mailbox adventure goes to Holly at Ribbons and Glue.  She was a featured blogger at Getting Cricky with K Andrew for her wonderful Harvest Blessing creation and had a comment contest during the feature.  I won a wonderful Fall/Halloween Prize pack! 

The second THANK YOU goes to Pryn at So Not Mocha-vated.  The package I received from Pryn was a scrumptious Fall Prize pack.  I had played her DT game, "Name That Tune", during The Outlawz 1000 Members Celebration.  Here is the wonderfully scrumptious goodies:

How is that for a lovely prize....SCRUM-DIDDILY-UMPTIOUS!!!



I hope that if I have inadvertently left anyone out of this gracious THANK YOU, that you are all included in my thoughts, past and present.  Please, if you wish for me to do a shout out to you in a future Makin' it to the Mailbox Monday, don't hesitate to remind me of a prize you sent my way, and I will do my best to give you the credit you so rightfully deserve!!!

Also, if you would like to show off your winnings, just title your post Makin' it to the Mailbox Monday and if I am your follower, I will gladly stop by to read it once I see it at my dashboard.  Or, if you'd like, you can leave a link with your comment below.  I would love to see the happiness that greets others in the Mailboxes :O)

DON'T FORGET TO:

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

The Outlaws Monday Greeting Card Challenge - Everything Goes

***UPDATE***
I just realized I missed the challenge deadline at CTO...silly me!  This card does fit the criteria for the new Monday Greeting Card Challenge-Everything Goes so I will be entering it in that challenge!  All is not wasted...LOL       :O).
***end update***

Well, today is off to a fabulous start.  The kids are all in very "chipper" moods.  They have had their breakfast, baths, and are having a Despicable Me movie time right now.  I was able to finish a card already....woo hoo! 

In keeping with my goal strategy of creating One Card 4 One Challenge, I started with Tuesday challenges (from my list) and right at the top was Celebrate The Occasion #34 - Anny occasion using Red, White, and Black.  I quickly gathered my papers (black cs, white cs, and red striped pp).  I chose to use a sentiment and image from Carmen at Beyond the Fringe.  She makes her images available at her blog for free and she is a wonderfully talented artist.  Stop by and show her some love!  I cut my black cs 1/4" smaller than my white cs base.  I then cut my red pp just a bit smaller than the black.  I cut the image and popped it up using 3D foam adhesive.  I also popped the black cs up with 3D foam, but used 2 layers to make it higher than the coffee mug.    I tied my white and red stitched ribbon off to the side, added some flowers to the left, and stitched around the sentiment using my black gel pen.  I added a bit of accent with my white gel pen around the oval frame (which was cut using my Creative Memories Oval template cutters).  A few rhinestones up top, some watercolor outline around the mug, and some red stickles, and it was finished!

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Paper Cutz challenge #113

Well, I am back in action creating One Card 4 One Challenge!  I so wanted to get inspiration from a sketch challenge and a technique challenge, but wanted to continue my journey to fulfill the personal goal I have set for myself. 

So, with that being said, this card was created for the Paper Cutz Challenge # 113: Stars, Circles, and Diamonds with a Halloween Theme.

RECIPE:
Beware Printable (sentiment) by Jamie at C.R.A.F.T.
Stars cut from Cricut Classic Font cartridge at 2" from Retro Stack (not sure brand though)
Base (orange diamonds) is from an Autumn Stack I purchased cut at 7 1/2" x 6"
Diamond cut from Cricut Classic Font cartridge at 4 3/4" (Yellow with Brown dots) also from Autumn Stack
Pumpkins on a Vine stamp by Scrappy Cat (wooden block/rubber stamp)
Ink used - Darice Ink It Up (Chocolate Brown)
Fall colored rhinestones at Diamond Points




Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

CAS many thanks card for the Outlawz Sunday challenge

Hello all my Crafty Blends!  HAPPY SATURDAY to you all!

Today's card was a quick one, again.  I wanted to use some of my new rubber stamps that I found in my last venture to the Goodwill.  The grass was created using one of the See Ds stamps and the foliage was created using the curveDecor leaf sprig stamp.  I love how easy it was to blend the colors onto one stamp to get the effect you see here.  This card was created with the CAS Sunday  Challenge at the Outlawz in mind.   I used my MS Corner punch, some studio G ink, and roses from I Am Roses to complete the card. Hope you like it!

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Family Ties are Bound By Love

So, today I was able to work at my craft table once again. I was on a short break for a couple of days.  I had to spend some well deserved Mommy Time with the kids and hubby.  Now, the kids are spending the day at home (NEOEA Day) and are all playing quietly (shocker) which gives me some time to create away.

Now, I know in my last post I set a goal to only enter one challenge for each creation, but I am bending the rules a little today.  Why?  Because I came across an awesome technique tutorial at Cindy's blog that uses embossing folders that I just couldn't wait to try.  She is also having a link up at her blog to win a prize if you use this technique on a creation.  Secondly, Amy at Love To Crop is having a challenge to use Embossing .  Finally, over at  Allsorts Challenge Blog, the challenge ending tonight is Bear With Us (use a bear).

So, I couldn't help myself.  My creative mind was working in overdrive!  I have a Darice embossing folder that has the most adorable little Teddy Bear on it.  So, all three challenges put together gave me this idea and I feel that it is only fair to give them all credit for inspiring me to create a card.  My sister saw a card I made a while back using this same embossing folder and fell in love with it.  She had asked me to make her a card just like it, but I decided to change it up a little and give it a more personal touch.  It is going to be a thank you card for her.  She helped my oldest daughter pay to play on the Powder Puff Football Team 'just because'.  I figured the least I could do is offer her a handmade card to say Thank You and to let her know we love her dearly.    The technique is fun, but I will have to practice more to get the desired effect.

RECIPE

Card Stock is a desert sand color with a slight texture

Image embossed using Darice folder and Teddy Bear ink by Darice

Sentiment is by Raindrop Echo Designs

Fibers were a fun find at the local Goodwill last week (rock on!)

Rhinestones (fall colors)

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

Candy has reached 100 followers and is CELEBRATING

Hello to all my crafty people out there in BlogLand.  I am cruising around today and stopped by my friend Candy's blog.  I was able to congratulate her on an achievement of reaching 100 followers.  I know myself, and if I may be so bold to speak for many of you,  can relate to the level of excitement she is consumed with right now.  100 FOLLOWERS is amazing!!!!   Please stop by her blog today and wish her a well deserved congratulations.  She is quite talented and you would be missing out if you don't stop by.

She is offering up some wonderful blog candy at the end of the month to celebrate this achievement.  What is it you ask????

Stop by now to earn a chance at winning this cartridge and making Candy smile!!!

Happy Crafting and Until Next Time
:O)
Jessica

GDT at ABC Christmas Challenge and Blog Candy Alert

I am honored today, to be a GDT at ABC Christmas Challenge.  I won a Guest Design spot while participating in the Feline Playful Blog Hop in September 2011.    Both sites are full of wonderful talent and inspiration and I suggest you check them out and consider becoming a follower of each of their blogs.


As a GDT with ABC (is that enough acronyms for ya?  LOL), I was asked to create a project using the Cupcake Xmas Lights digital image by Bugaboo Stamps.  The theme for this week's ABC Christmas Challenge is U is for Unused Stash, this can be anything from papers, buttons, ribbon, anything you have unused or unopened.  

For my creation, I chose to create a card and two matching tags.  
I chose also to use the following, never used before, items:

-Christmas Print paper from Cloud9-Harvest Holiday (I have used some of the other prints, but not this particular pattern)
-Gold Foil vellum stickers from Miss Elizabeth ( I have had these for about 7 years . . .how's that for unused stash?  LOL)
-3D Handmade Stickers (Christmas Theme)


Here is my creation:

I would like to enter this project at the following challenges:
Deconstructing Jen DS22
I Did It Creations - #76 AG 
Emerald Faerie Garden - #10 Punches and Dies
The Kraft Journal - To Die Cut For

The wonderful sponsors for this challenge include:

Looking forward to seeing everyone's wonderful creations.  Please stop by all of the Design Team posts for extra inspiration and to drop some Love in the form of Comments.  

!!! BLOG CANDY ALERT!!!

I will be offering one lucky ENTRANT, a set of 5 of my handmade design pins** to use in your projects!

 **(pins to be won may vary slightly from those shown)

To be eligible to win my Blog Candy Giveaway (you must complete all three steps):
1 - Please be a follower of my blog and leave a comment below.
2 - Stop by ABC Challenge blog and become a follower.  Come back here to leave another comment telling me you follow them.
3 - Participate in the challenge and submit your project by the deadline.  Stop back here one more time and let my know you are participating in the challenge.


Happy Crafting to you All!!!
:O)
Jessica