Hearts & Flowers for GDT call at The Digi Bell's Challenge Blog

Almost the beginning of a new year and how exciting it's going to be.  Can't hardly wait to see all the new tools and goodies coming out at CHA.  Boy, would I love to go to LA--  but ONLY for CHA. 

Don't ya all just love this image by Elizabeth Bell.  It is named Sweet Love and you can get it from Bells'n Whistles.  EB has always been one of my favorite designers. Well guess what, there is an opening on the Digi Bells Design Team for a guest designer so I'm entering this card in the sketch challenge call.  I'm so excited so cross your fingers and toes for me..........lol  If it doesn't happen that's okay too, I'm still excited at just the prospect of the opportunity.

Tools and Goodies used:

• DP is from Basic Grey Eva and SU Verde Olive
• Copics for coloring and Silver Spica Pen
• Wild Orchid Craft flowers with Pink and Star Dust Stickles
• Mini hearts punch from Creative Memories and MS Fern Punch
• Art Glitter Glue (Dries Clear)
• Sage Flower Soft
• Clear gems were colored with Copics

If you are interested in the GD position here is the link to the Digi Bell's Challenge Blog and GDT call. Below are the pictures of the optional sketches to be used.

You must have your entry posted by January 2.

Thanks so very much for stopping by and I hope you have the time to say hi and let me know what you think of the card.  I try to get around to visit everyone as often as possible but those of you that take the extra time to leave me a note always get visited first.  So here's hoping to visit you soon.

If I don't see you before have a Very Happy New Year!

"Hugs" Carol

My Top 10 Cards of 2010 Blog Hop

This is really a clever idea and one that was not an easy task but a fun one to look back at the cards made this year.  How often do we really take the time to go back and look at some of our creations? Me, seldom if ever!

Mrs. Weyremaster is having a Blog Hop and "All you have to do to join in, is create a post on your blog entitled 'My Top Ten Cards of 2010, then link that post to this post, using the inlinkz tool at the bottom of the post.

Never did make it to the craft room today as I've been playing around with redoing my blog all day but I thought this would be a fun post and hope you enjoy looking back with me.
Your post needs to be submitted by 7 AM GMT Wednesday 12-29-10

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you'll take to time to leave me a comment and join this fun hop.
"Hugs" Carol

TidBits Update

Happy Monday Everyone!!

Just a quick post to let you know I'm still here and alive. Christmas was fantastic!  Yesterday was our last celebration with lunch, gift exchange, and watching the Chiefs win the AFC West Division Title at our grandsons home in Kansas City.  Needless to say we were all jumping with joy during the game and now it's "how soon can we get tickets for the playoff game"......lol

Today I'm going to be working on updating my blog, catching up with visiting, and then I'm headed to my craft room to play with my new toys from Santa.  That is as soon as they get the new furnace in so I'm not in the way downstairs. I"ll be back tomorrow with a challenge post.  If I didn't get around to visiting you today I apologize, please leave me a comment and I'll hop on over tonight to see what's new.

"Hugs" Carol

Merry Christmas

To all of my blogging friends and friends that span the world.

May you enjoy the blessing of the Christ Child and and embrace the true meaning and spirit of Christmas.

"Hugs" The West Family

The faster I go the behinder I get!

Oh My Oh My!!!! In a dither here with so much to do, no time to craft, all the bakings not done, no presents are wrapped but boxed, not enough gifts, I'm off shopping again before the ice and snow hit. 

The time to visit, hop, and comment are scarcer and scarcer. I'll be around again when I catch my next breath......... "Hugs" Carol

LOTV Sketch Challenge + 3 Other Challenges

Been a busy week what with trying to get some shopping done, baking, and finishing decorating the house.

Meeting myself coming and going just like everyone else. So, my cardmaking got put on the back burner this week.  I have been coloring a bunch of new images I received this week and now finding the time to make a card with them would be wonderful...lol

The challenge this week at LOTV is a sketch challenge by Dena and the closing date isn't until December 29th at 6pm. There is still lots of time to join in.

The image I used is by LOTV from the Merry Christmas Set 4.  Glitter DP is from my stash of last year and the other DPs are Cranberry and Evergreen by Creative Memories.  MS Lattic Punch was used for the two strips with the loops being doused in Xmas Red Stickles.  I did cut out some of the Christmas ornaments from the DP and used them as embellishmenets along with poinsettias and leaves with red center brads covered in the red Stickles.  The sentiment on the ornament is also from my stash and I have no idea where I got it.... Can't remember some things 5 minutes ago little lone a year ago.....lol

Forgot to let you all know that I stepped down from the For Fun team and last week was my last challenge card. I will definitely be missing my team mates and the "FUN" challenges every week but keeping in close touch with a bunch of awesome ladies. This is Amelia and Tracey's last week, Lisa will be staying on till the end of December and Pauline will be staying on for next year.  Helen is looking to create a new team so if you are interested please be sure to let her know.  You can find the information here.

I am also entering this card for the following challenges:
Stamp With Fun - Anything Christmas
A Spoonfull of Sugar - Christmas Cards
Tip Top Tuesday Challenge  - Christmas Inspired

I plan to get some more cards made before Christmas and get them posted.  Hope you are enjoying this wonderful time of the year as I know I'm lovin it.  Thanks so much for stopping by to visit and I hope you'll leave me a comment so I'll come by and visit to see your latest lovely creations.

"Hugs" Carol

Merry Christmas Snowman Challenge

This snowman with the "Have Yourself  A Merry Little Christmas" wish is just so fun and cute.  Well, you can get him at the challenge blog this week and if  you do, you could win 4 of Nina's images by playing along this week at Paper Cupcakes. Hop on over to the challenge blog and join in with us.  We have a fantastic challenge brought to you by our lovely DT member Due Cabral. You are to make a traditional Christmas card using red and green. Now it can't get any easier than that so come on over, grab the free image and let's see your red and green card.  The design team have some wonderful eye candy for you to get your mojo going.

I've made a Christmas oranament and attached to the front of this card for someone very special, far away, and always in my thoughts. Can't tell ya who cause every now and then she pops in to see what's going on with my blog......lol   This was really fun to make and I love this image.

Goodies used to make this card:

• Image - Merry Christmas Snowman by Nina of Paper Cupcakes and combined it with a digital wreath from Nana Vic - I joined the digital wreath with Nina's image then cut out around the inside of the snowman and the edges of the wreath - behind the snowman is a beautiful white glitzy paper so it looks like snow and is shiney.  It is Snowfall by Reminisce.
• DP is from my stash and I don't have a clue where I got it last year - love the glitz and shine to it though so I hope you can see the beauty of the paper
• Spellbinder's circle dies
• Ribbon from stash and Bow Easy to make bow
• Colored with Copics - Holly Berry Stickles added to his gloves, mittens and band on his hat.

Didn't do a lot of embellishments with this because I wanted the image and the paper to be the main focus of the card but after looking it does need more since I'm a more is never enough......lol

At this time I want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the design team at Paper Cupcakes.  We will be taking a break through the holidays and this will be our last challenge until January 10, 2011.  The new year will bring new images and some wonderful new challenges with lots of goodies for you. I'll be back with a new challenge on January 10th.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I hope you like what you see here and have the time to leave me a comment so I'll be sure to come visit and see what's new with you and your blog.

Happy Holidays from our house to your house.

"Hugs" Carol

One Card - 2 Challenges

Got in one of those moods were I just couldn't color or play enough in the craft room. Wish I had these spells more often.......lol  This is a card I created for a couple of challenges using another Elizabeth Bell image that I've had for a couple of years.  Isn't she gorgeous!  Chose the colors for this card as I was listening to Elvis sing "I'll Have A Blue Christmas Without You" so there came the inspiration to do a blue and white card.

I've used the sketch from The Beary Scrap Design Challenge Blog and the project isn't due till 12/14/10, so I think I'm gonna make it.....lol  The second challenge I'm entering this card for is Copic Creations and the challenge is "Light Source" also due 12/14/10. 

Image is Willow With Lantern by Elizabeth Bell and from Whiff of Joy - Colored with copics and highlighted with Stickles - The DP is from my stash of last year (clueless as to the manufacturer) - Poinsettias are from Wild Orchid Crafts with Stickles added and a blue gem for the center - The flourish is Mayan chipboard, sprayed with adhesive and then covered in crystal glitter.

That's it from me for today.  If you have the time to leave me a little comment it will be very much appreciated and then I'll pop on over to see what's new with you and your blog. Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you have a wonderful weekend! "Hugs" Carol

Bells'n Whistles Ornament Challenge

I've loved playing in my craft room today with all the new toys and stuff.  Here is my Christmas ornament for the contest at Bells'n Whistles. I think it turned out really cute and I hope you like it.

The image is a digital image named "Edens 2nd Christmas" by Elizabeth Bell.  I've always been a big fan of EB as her stamps were the first ones I ever purchased and they were from Whiff of Joy a couple of years ago. Now I'm getting them from Bells'n Whistles. There is just something really special about these designs and I love working with them.  If you'd ask me what it is, I have to say that I have no idea. I know I was really excited though when I saw she was creating digi's. To see more please check out the Digi Bells Blog for daily updates.

Some how I stumbled around the internet and found Bells'n Whistles. This is a super blog and store that if you haven't visited you will definitely want to stop by.  Then, there is the EB World Challenge Blog and that is definitely a must check out.. Not only do they have some digi's they have wonderful clear stamps and oh such cuties they are.

I'm also entering this ornament in the following challenges:

EB World Challenge Blog  - Anything Christmas but a card - (Due 12/22/10)

The dp is from my stash, image colored with Copics, doily spritzed with Tattered Angels Pearl, lots of stickles, MS punch and WOC roses with a bell at the top of the ribbon, from stash.

Thanks so much for stopping by to visit. I'm going to be posting a lot more EB projects and I'd love to see you play along at Bells'n Whistles and the EB World Challenge Blog.  New stamps on the way at B & W and a new digi release tomorrow showcased by the Digi Bells..and... if you hurry you can get yours to finish the rest of your projects or cards for Christmas.

Please leave me a comment if you'd like for me to stop by and see what's new with you and your blog.

"Hugs" Carol

Stylish Blogger Award

Thanks and a big hug to Wendy at Creations by Louby Lou for this fantastic blog award.

The requirements for receiving the award are as follows:

1.  Thank and link back to the person who gave you the award.

2.  Share 8 things about yourself.

3.  Forward it to 8 recently discovered bloggers.

4.  Contact those bloggers and tell them about their award.

Easy Peasy my friends.

8 things about me

1.  I thank God every day I'm still here and getting older

2.  Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year

3.  I have 2 dogs & hubby that I love dearly to fill my empty nest

4.  Caretaker for my hubby which I am thankful to be

5.  Love my papercrafts, blogging, and my blogging friends

6.  My 3 children are the highlight of my life, as are my grandchildren

7.  None of my Christmas goodies are made but the gift bags are almost done

8.  Keep in close touch and visit with several of my girlfriends from HS over the past 50+ years

8 recently discovered blogs that I think are fantastic:

1.  Beadz

2.  Sandee

3.  Jill

4.  Adriana

5.  Jeri

6.  Betty

7.  Vickie

8.  Lorraine

Merry Christmas and "Hugs" to All

Carol

For Fun Sketch Challenge

I'm so honored to have this sketch used as the challenge this week at For Fun. It was so long ago that I created this sketch I had a hard time putting this card together.  I'm sure at the time I had something exciting in mind but went blank this week.  I'm blaming it on having a week off......lol  The challenge at For Fun this week is to create a card or project using this sketch. It can be anything you want it to be as long as you can see the basis sketch.

I'm really excited about what the design team have come up with this week so be sure you hop on over to For Fun to see the awesome inspiration the team have to share with you.  Sure hope you can join us this week as I'd love to see your take on the sketch.

Project goodies:

• DP is Metallic Gold and Cranberry from CM
• Spellbinders Scalloped Circles
• Just Rite stamp embossed with Ranger Gold Embossing Powder
• Cuttlebug embossing folder
• Wild Orchid Craft Poinsettias with MS Snowflake Punch and red gem.
• Lots of Stickles

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon.  If you  have the time to leave me a comment I'll be sure to stop to visit.

"Hugs" Carol

Magical Monday Ornament Challenge

Can you believe it's already December and Christmas is rapidly approaching? This year has gone by way too fast and they go faster each year. Yesterday I was 50 and today I'm rapidly approaching 70....lol 

I am honored to present the challenge at Paper Cupcakes this week, which is to create a Christmas ornament keepsake for someone special. It can be as simple as you like or you can fancy and bling it up as much as you want, any color, any size.  Do whatever your heart desires to make that someone feel extra special or to honor the birth of the Christ child, the reason for the season.  Be sure you hop on over to the Paper Cupcakes blog to see all the beautiful ornaments the design team have created for your inspiration.

I am so happy to see a lot of you participating in these challenges. This week we've had over 100 entries and there are some fabulous designs and cards.  Nina always has a free image on the blog for you to use or you can purchase one from the store. It is not required that you use a Paper Cupcakes image but we love it when you do. There are so many cute and wonderful images to choose from there. And, you get entered into the drawing for the prize twice using a PCC image.

Ornament Tidbits:
Image - Mary & Jesus by Nina of Paper Cupcakes
Sky Blue Shimmerz
Copics for coloring
Spellbinder's Fleur De Lis die
Barbara Twombley's Glitter and glue
Silver glitter ribbon from stash

Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and I hope you'll leave me a comment so I can stop by your blog and see what wonderful creations you have published lately.  Have a wonderful week and keep crafting. "Hugs" Carol

I've Been Blessed!

A huge thank you to Olga at Craftieodamae for drawing my name for this wonderful set.  I've loved Heartfelt Creations stamps and dies every since I've seen such beautiful creations made with them. This set is one of my favorites and my first.  I've been blessed today with an early Christmas present and one I've wanted since it's release.

If you haven't visited Olga's blog you have really missed out on seeing some fabulous creations and designs, so please take the time to visit, leave her a little lovin, and get some awesome inspiration for your next project.  Olga is on the design team for Heartfelt Creations and if you peruse her blog you will definitely see some fabulous creations.

Thank you my friend and God's blessing to you.
"Hugs" Carol

See ya all tomorrow with my post for Paper Cupcakes so be sure to check back to see what the design team has in store for you this week. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Short Sabbatical

Just a quick post to let you all know I'll be taking this next week off  for unexpected family commitments.  So if I don't stop by to visit or have a post for the next few days not to worry. 

Have a fantastic week and I hope to be back before ya know it. 

"Hugs" Carol

Story Time with Nana Vic

Sweet holiday memories of time spent with cousins at Grandma's house. Since I wasn't bless with siblings and the oldest grandchild, this image fits my childhood perfectly. My grandmother always wore dresses, had her hair done, and her makeup on no matter what time or day it was. This is one of Nana Vic's newest images and you can find it here.

This card was created using digi papers and elements from Cool Scraps Digital. The image was colored with Copics.  Special thanks to Vickie for helping me with  digital designing.  I have so much to learn. Now hop on over to Nana Vic's and pick up your free weekend digi for the "Quickie Weekend Challenge" and play along with us.

Thanks so much for dropping by and I hope to see you again soon.  Would love to hear from so I can drop by your blog to see what's new.  Happy paper crafting!

"Hugs" Carol

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving and blessings to all of my American friends.

To those abroad, may your weekend be filled with love, laughter, and family.

"Hugs" Carol

Anthing Goes at For Fun This Week - New EB Digi

It's been one of those days and I've been a little under the weather. Almost forgot to get my card upload at For Fun and do my post.  Would really have been disappointed had I missed this entry cause I love Elizabeth Bell's images, even more so since she now is coming out with digi's. Nothing like instant gratification and not having to wait for the mailman.........lol  To check out some other cards using "Letters to Santa" go see what the Digi Bell's have created for their hop this month. I am also entering this card into the challenge at Digi Bell's.

The challenge this week at For Fun is "Anything Goes", so just do your thing and let's see what awesome and inspiring project(s) you have to share with us. Now hop on over to the challenge blog to see the awesome creations by the design team this week.

Thank you so much for stopping by and I hope you have the time to leave me a comment so I can come visit to see what's new with you. Have a wonderful weekend! "Hugs" Carol

Bed Time Stories Bear - Do You Believe?

This has turned out to be one of my favorite cards this season. Maybe it's because of the childhood memories this image brings back or the combination red and cream,  the sentiment, or the embellies, I'm not really sure but I hope you like it as much as I do.

The challenge at Paper Cupcakes this week is a color challenge of red and cream by DT member Nilla.  You may use a Paper Cupcakes image (preferred) or an image of your choosing. We always love seeing your projects no matter which you choose. You won't want to miss seeing the wonderful inspiration the design team has created for you at Paper Cupcakes this week.

Items used to make this card:

• Image is Bed Time Stories by Nina at Paper Cupcakes
• DP is Memory Box and Poison Ivory from The Paper Temptress 
• Spellbinder's Classic and Scalloped Circles and Scalloped Rectangles
• Sizzix Flourish Die (modified) and MS Branch Punch
• Believe stamp (??) heat embossed with red embossing powder
• Mulberry roses from Wild Orchid Crafts with stickles added

Okay, now hop on over to Paper Cupcakes to get your free image and please join us this week for this wonderful challenge.

Thanks so very much for stopping by today and I hope to see you again soon.  Don't forget to leave me a comment so I'll be sure to visit and see what's new with you and your blog.

"Hugs" Carol

New Nana Vic Sympathy Image

A new image "Sundays Hat" and sentiment from Nana Vic.  Although this is a happy and joyous time of the year it is also a time to grieve. Knowing that a life began for the sole purpose of dieing to forgive us our sins and to give us eternal life is very sad.  So please remember the true spirit of the Christmas Holiday and give thanks for the gift from God we have all been given, should we choose to accept it. 

This stamp can be used for a lot of different occasions.

The papers and elements are digital and from Cool Scraps Digital, the image was colored with Copics and a Gold Spica Pen was used to outline the bible.  This image will make a beautiful sympathy card for someone dear so I hope you'll hop on over to Nana Vics at CDAC to see a full sheet of the sentiments and other cards created using this digi's.

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see  you again soon.

"Hugs" Carol

Give Thanks Challenge at For Fun

Helen at For Fun has challenged us this week to give thanks for something. If I had to list everything I'm thankful for this would be a VERY long post so I'm going to keep it short and simple. I'm thankful to be alive and to have a strong belief that my Heavenly Father will take me home to peace, tranquility, and eternity when my body no longer serves a purpose on earth.

Thanks to my blogging pal Eulanda, for the adorable place card she made last week and for the inspiration to create some for our Thanksgiving table. Only have to make 8 and that's not too bad. I'm thankful to have 8 family members who live close enough to be able to get together for dinner.

Tools and stuff used:

• Image ~ Indian Corn ~ from Karen's Doodles
• Colored with Copics
• Spellbinders Die to make shaped easel place card
• DP: Debbie Mumm Fall paper pack from last year
• Ribbon from stash
• Cinnamon Stickles
• Gathering in Gratitude from Debbie Mumm Fall embellishment package
• Will add name to bottom left hand corner once I get the others done and cut out all names on the Cricut

Be sure to stop by the For Fun Challenge blog to see all the great creations by the design team and then post a link to your entry for this week. We all have something to be thankful for and I can't wait to see your wonderful creation.

I am also entering this place card in Cute Card Thursday Challenge - Anything goes

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you again real soon. If you have the time to leave me a comment it will be much appreciated and then I'll hop on over to see what's new with you.

"Hugs" Carol

Stamp with Fun Square Challenge

Oh wow, I can't believe it.  I did a card for last week's sketch challenge at Stamp With Fun and then didn't get it entered in time - BUT - it works for this week's challenge "Square".  Talk about lucky!! I love playing in challenges and have kept it on the back burner with everything else going on but I'm making myself take the time to go play instead of doing something that "needs" to be done......there will always be something that needs to be done.

This card was created with digi papers and an element from Cool Scrap Digital. I layered it with CM Metallic Gold and then stamped the wreath and sentiment with Versa Mark and heat embossed with Gold Embossing powder. Around the center piece I added gold glitter using Barbara Twombley's glitter and glue.  BTW........if you haven't tried that glue it is to die for.  It dries very quickly and the glitter sets up almost immediately--works great too for attaching embellishments.  I'd by it buy the quart if I could find it in that quantity......lol

Off to do more post and schedule them for this week. Thanks so very much for stopping by and I sure hope I see you again soon.  Hope you have the time to leave me a comment so I can come visit to see what's new with you and your blog.  I was hoping to have 100 followers before the end of the year so if you've been lurking around and too shy to leave a comment, please feel free to become a follower and I'll be in touch with you soon.

Happy Monday ~ "Hugs" Carol

Magical Monday's Freebie of the Month

Oh my gosh, don't ya just love this new image "Who's Candy" by Nina at Paper Cupcakes! It's a freebie this month and we hope you will join our challenge and share your talent with us. Pat Pedder challenged us to add glitter and ribbon to our Christmas projects this week.  The design team have created some awesome projects to give you that gentle touch of inspiration we all desperately need at one time or another. So, with that said, we are all looking forward to seeing your wonderful project this week.

Since I played around in my craft room a lot this past week I forgot to make notes on some of the cards I made, and can you believe it, this was one of them.........DUH!  I'm also entering this in the Stamp Something Challenge.

Here is what I remember using:

• DP is DCWV Christmas Stack
• Colored with Copics - paper pieced the scarf, vest and hats
• I had a square brad the size of his nose (amazing) and covered it with black glitter
• The snowman mouth was done with teeny antique brass stick ons (no buttons that tiny)
• Crystal Snow was added to the snowballs in the pail
• A combination of Crystal Snow and Polar White FS for the snow
• Green and Christmas Red Stickles were used for the gumdrops - as a touch was also added to the lollipops
• Sentiment is from last years stash as is the ribbon
• Bow Easy for bow (a must have for me) I'm doing good to tie tennis shoe laces
• CM Corner punch

Can't wait to see what you create with this wonderful image this week. Now hop on over to Paper Cupcakes to get your free image and then link your creation to the challenge blog.  Thanks so very much for stopping by to visit and I hope to see you again soon. Hope you have the time to leave me a comment so I'll be sure to stop by your blog and see what's new with you.

"Hugs" Carol

Dry Embossing Challenge at For Fun

The challenge at For Fun this week is to use dry embossing on your project, any kind, anywhere, as long as something is dry embossed. You want to make sure you stop by the challenge blog to see all the wonderful creations and inspiration by the design time just for you.

For some reason this was a hard card for me to do cause I really don't do much dry embossing even though there are LOTS of Cuttlebug embossing folders available but I never know what to do with them once they are embossed. Most of my cards are 6" x 6" and the embossed folders won't do a whole page. OH well, I got it done and I kinda like it.

I've been seeing some beautiful white on white cards and wanting to do one, thanks to Olga and Patti for the inspiration. Yep, it's white even though it looks grey. I've either got to get a light box or get a new camera.......ggggggrrrrr. Maybe after the holidays.

Supplies used:

• Swiss dot and ??? Cuttlebug folders
• White card stock
• Gold Spica pen to outline the houses
• White lace from Really Reasonable Ribbons
• MS Snowflake punch
• Snowflakes and dots covered with stickles

That's it from me today. Hope you stop by the For Fun Challenge Blog and enter your card for the challenge this week.  If you have time to leave me a comment it will be much appreciated and I'll be over to see what's new on your blog. Thanks so much for stopping by.

I appreciate you much more than you know. 

"Hugs" Carol

Christmas Tradition?

At Paper Cupcakes this week DT member Debbie has challenged us to make a Christmas card using non-traditional colors. The colors I chose were teal and plum but they aren't showing up here at those colors--darn camera. I still kinda like the way it turned out though.  The design team have created some awesome cards for your inspiration so I hope you will stop by the challenge blog then create your card to enter this weeks challenge.  You are not required to use a Paper Cupcakes image but there is a free one there should you decide you want to use it.

Looking forward to seeing your project.

Here are the items I used to create this card:

• DP KaiserCraft Utopia
• Spellbinder's Labels 9
• Stamp Something Sketch
• Copics: G24-21-20-94-99; BG05-07-0000; RV99-95-93-91
• DecoArt Texture, Diamond Glaze, Crystal glitter for the icing
• Glossy Accents to give dimension to the berries and candy
• Pine cones, poinsettias & ornament from stash
• MS branch punch
• Mermaid Stickles

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you again real soon.  I am also entering this card in Stamp Something Sketch Challenge this week. Hope to see your entry at Paper Cupcakes this week.

"Hugs" Carol

Daisy Doodle's "Snow in Love" Sponsors For Fun

Here is my DT card this week at For Fun Challenges. Helen challenges us to use metal on our cards or projects this week which can be any metal (brads, aluminum, tin, tags, etc.) so dig out those metal pieces you know you've been dieing to use and let's see them on entry this week.

We are sponsored by Daisy Doodles this week and if  you want to know what the prize is you'll need to hop on over to the For Fun Challenge Blog to see all the great cards created for you by the DT.  Be sure to check out the link cause Daisy Doodles is having a Christmas Raffle you won't want to miss out on.

I had planned to play in some challenges this week but haven't made it yet. Been busy helping my daughter out with her business books and files and it's taking longer than I thought it would take. Probably because since I retired five years ago I haven't kept up with the new technology and all of the software I used is now obsolete. So, trying to learn the new software is challenging to say the least.  Family first and hobbies second for awhile.  I know I better get my buns busy and get some cards made or I'm going to be buying them this year and that is something I DO NOT want to do.

What I used to create this card:

• Daisy Doodles "Snow in Love" Digi image
• Digi Paper & CM Metallic Silver
• Black/Silver Tin Sheet cut with Spellbinder's frame die and burnished
• MS Branch punch - Scroll punch
• Brads from stash covered with Xmas Red Stickles - Poinsettia's from stash - Stardust Stickles and Dew Drops for buttons

I really had a lot of fun making this card. The most challenging for me was trying to figure out how to use that tin paper I've had for years that came in a kit with tools, etc.  I'd taken the tools out and put them all in a box with the accessories and the tins so I have no idea where I got them or who made them.  Now I'm going to have to try and find a tutorial someone on You Tube to figure out how they are really suppose to be used.

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon.

"Hugs" Carol

psst.  For those of you that read all of this post the prize is a $10 gift certificate to Daisy Doodles and you'll even get raffle tickets with your purchase............

I Got "TUDE"

One of my best blogging friends Patti, presented me with this awesome new award. Thanks GF!! If you follow all the directions that come with it, you can receive a $5.00 gift certificate from Digi's With Attitude. I checked it out and let me tell ya, these digis do have attitude.

You can find all the details to get your gift certificate here.

One of the rules of the award is that you must tell 3 unknown facts about yourself:

1. Just ordered the new Tim Holtz die cut machine as my Christmas present from hubby (he doesn't know it yet)  LOL - me bad
2. I'm taking an online QuickBooks class (it's a nightmare)
3. Going to bed earlier and getting up earlier (before noon) hard to do since I'm a nightowl

Now I'm passing this on to five wonderful blogging friends.

1. Eulanda
2. Sylvia Anne
3. Lisa
4. Dru
5. Kym

"Hugs" Carol

I Couldn't Wait Any Longer

I'm so excited that the holiday season is just around the corner that I had to redo my blog to really get me into the spirit of Christmas shopping and doing all those wonderful and fun things one does during the season. I like to have our home decorated and all my shopping done by Thanksgiving  so I can really enjoy baking, wrapping packages, and spending time with friends.  Like that ever really happens, you notice I said "like"......LOL

A huge THANK YOU to my blogging friend from British Columbia, Eulanda Silvey of Cards, Cards, and More Cards, for helping me with my blog today. She is a life saver and just as sweet as she can be.  Her blog is always so cute and her creations are really fabulous.  If you have a chance, hop on over and see all the wonderful inspiration she creates for all of us.  She is one talented and unique lady.  Don't forget to check out that colorful and adorable new Christmas blog look she has.

I'm getting geared up to play in some challenges this week so I hope to be seeing you daily. Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you like the new look.  It may change again next month, but for now, I'm lovin it as it is......... "Hugs" Carol

Magical Monday - Be Thankful

This week the challenge at Paper Cupcakes is by Jessie , "Be Thankful", is to create a Thanksgiving card or Thank you card.  I've used this image by Nina (Oh Dear, It's Christmas) in the past and just love coloring it. I think it's just so sweet and sends a message of friendship. This thank you note will be included on a homemade goodie bag to a very special friend of mine. Glad she doesn't have a computer so she can't sneak a peek........LOL  Be sure you take the time to see the wonderful creations by the design team to inspire you to join us this week at Paper Cupcakes.

Can you believe it's the first of November............YIKES........ where did this year go? A few more blinks of the eyes and it will be 2011. Time passes so quickly when we get older. Enjoy each precious day and moment of your life, especially during the holiday season and time spent with family.

Card was super simple this week, cut out on the Cricut using Bag, Tag, Boxes & More.  The paper and embellishments are from my stash and the image was colored with Copics.

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon. Don't forget to leave me a comment so I can come by and visit to see what's new on your blog.

Looking forward to seeing your creation for the challenge at Paper Cupcakes this week.

"Hugs" Carol

For Fun Challenge - Halloween/NO ORANGE

Okay, Okay, I out and out unintentionally fibbed to you.... but I promise....this is my LAST Halloween card of the year. I'm so ready to get into making Christmas cards.

The challenge this week at For Fun is to make a Halloween card/project without using any orange unless it's a pumpkin.  I found this adorable image "Trick or Treat" at Karen's Doodles a few weeks ago and knew I could get by without using orange on it.  In this picture the brads look a little orange but believe me they are red.  Was a fun image to work with and I think it turned out pretty cute. Ya think?

Be sure you take the time to see some of the awesome creations by the DT at For Fun this week.

Items used to create the card:

• Bazzill card stock
• Image - Trick or Treat - Karen's Doodles
• Copics and Distress Inks for coloring
• UltraFine Sage Flower Soft for grass
• Brads & ribbon from stash
• Mulberry Flowers from Wild Orchid Crafts
• MS branch punch
• Stickles

That's all from me today. Hope you are having a fantastic week and enjoying life to the fullest. If you have the time to leave me a comment I'll be by to visit and see what's new on your blog. 

Looking forward to seeing your fantastic creation for this week's challenge at For Fun!

"Hugs" Carol

Magical Monday Die Cut Challenge

WOO HOO!!! I'm back and will be visiting everyone real soon. Hubby on the mend, no more doctors until January (I hope) and all is well on the home front.

The challenge at Paper Cupcakes this week is by Gloria and she wants us to use die cuts on our projects. With Halloween being so close I decided to make 1 more halloween card cause I really liked this "Bushels of Blessings" image (new this month) by Nina at Paper Cupcakes.  Be sure to stop by the challenge blog to see the wonderful inspiration by the design team.  I'm looking forward to seeing your entry this week!

The following tools and supplies were used:

• Image: Bushels of Blessings by Nina at Paper Cupcakes
• DP is digital paper from Cool Scraps Digital and Cajoline-Scraps as are some of the element dies
• Sentiment is computer generated and cut out using an MS border punch with a combination of Marigold and Vintage Photo for distressing
• Spellbinders Long Rectangles and Classic Circle Dies along with a CM Corner Punch
• Copics were used for coloring with stickles added for a little bling
• Dimensionals were used for the image to give it that 3D effect

Thanks so very much for stopping by and I hope to see you again real soon. Now I'm off to visit everyone and to see what's new with you. First stops are all of you that have left such sweet comments, prayers and hugs during my absence.  See ya soon!

"Hugs" Granny (Carol)

HAPPY SATURDAY & WEEKEND

I think all the drama is over for now and I'm back with some much needed changes to the blog (that is still in need of tweaking).  Then just when I get it the way I want it, it'll be time to change again.......LOL 

Finally got to my craft room and I'll be posting again for the teams I'm on starting Monday.  Also hope to be playing in more challgenes as I've got a LOT of Christmas cards to get done.

I hope I haven't missed getting around to visit any of you this past couple of days, and if I have, please leave me a note here and I'll get by as soon as I hear from you.  I've missed you all and seeing those wonderful creations of yours.

Hope to see you all Monday - Have a fantastic weekend!

"Hugs" Carol

Temporarily MIA

No, I haven't fallen off the face of the earth yet........LOL  Life is challenging right now and I just haven't been able to get to the computer to leave comments on your blogs or visit. AND, to make matters worse, so far I haven't been able to get to my craft room to meet my obligations for the teams I'm on this week.  I'm hoping with youngest son here tonight and part of tomorrow I'll have time to get to the craftroom downstairs while he spends time with his dad.   Cross your fingers!!!

"Hugs" Granny (Carol)

Halloween and Google Eyes

A nice follower asked me if I'd like to participate in their challenge this week so I'm updating my post to let you all know that I am also entering this card into "Let's Craft and Create" Challenge" - Halloween

Thanks Eileen for the encouragement!

The challenge this week at For Fun is Halloween and you must use Google Eyes on your project.  Be sure you stop over at the challenge blog to see all the wonderful creations by the design team for your inpiration.

On one of my internet shopping sprees last month I saw this "Little Witch" and sentiment at the Whiff of Joy store and thought she was so cute.  I'm not one that gets too much into Halloween with all the ghouls and gothic images so I chose this for my card this week.  The DP is from one of  last year's K & Co paper packs that I didn't use as are the spider embellishments.

Copics were used to color the image and for the image background I used purple and pewter metallic rub on ink. First time I've used the Spellbinder's inverted scalloped and square dies and I think I like the way they turned out.  I also added google eyes to the bats and then colored all the eyes with YG01 a couple of times.  Grape stickles used to edge the image die and Lime Green on the spider legs.

That's all from me today and I thank you for stopping by. If you have the time to leave me a comment it will be much appreciated and I'll be sure to come visit to see what's new with you.

"Hugs" Granny (Carol)

Deco Flower 2 & Frame

This was my week at TMIA/PCC to create the challenge. Since it's my first challenge to issue I wasn't quite sure what would appeal to everyone, so, I tried to make it as simple as possible in the hopes you will join and share your beautiful creation with us.  You are to use the Deco Flower 2 (freebie of the  month) and showcase it in a frame. You can use any type of frame you want to use, ribbon, wood, flowers, etc., and any layout or sketch that you like as long as the image is in a frame.  Be sure to see what fantastic creations the design team have created for your inspiration.

This is about as CAS as you will probably see from me cause it's hard for me to contain that run rampid, glitz, glitter and flowers I love so much. This is such an elegant image that I wanted to make sure nothing distracted from the beauty of it.  The frame, ribbon, and sunflowers are digital elements from Cool Scraps Digital.  For the water in the vase I used Copic BG0000 and then added Glossy Accents for depth and shine.

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon. Now hop on over to TMIA/PCC, grab your freebie, and play along with us. If you have the time to leave me a comment I'll be sure to hop on over to visit and see what's new with you.  "Hugs" Granny (Carol)

Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes

Just popping in for a second to let you all know Conley's surgery went well and we are home. He's on bed rest for 48 hours, still got his beautiful white socks on.....lol  Fixed his fav meal of homemade waffles and sausage so maybe that's why he ate so well tonight.   I hope he stays in bed and rests till morning but that's highly unlikely so I'm going to try and get a few hours of sleep as soon as I finish this post.  Been a long day and I'm bushed. 

Thanks so much to all of you that sent us such sweet notes with prayers and blessing. One can NEVER have too many prayers and blessing.

"Hugs" Carol & Conley

Marbles Anyone?

This new Nana Vic image brings back so many memories of when I was young. I was the only girl and the oldest of my cousins (all boys) and since no one else wanted to play with dolls we played marbles on my grandmothers livingroom rug at family gatherings.  What beautiful marbles those were back then, shiney and multicolored. I thought the shooters were the prettiest, maybe because they were bigger and you could see the colors better. I used a variety of stickles to get the shine on the marbles but they sure don't do justice to the ones I do remember.  Every now and then we'll find an old marble while working in one of the flower beds and I always take time to reflect on those wonderful days. Thanks Vickie for taking me back in time.

 The fall scene is digital paper and the wheelbarrel, leaves, and the basket of apples are elements from Cool Scraps Digital.  The image is a semi-transparent image from Vickie that can be inserted on the background paper and once printed colored with Copics. I love the flexibility of using the semi-transparent images because they can also be printed out on white paper, colored, etc.  I have to admit though, it does take me longer to create a card using digital paper and elements. You can do this in Photoshop or Paint Shop, whatever program you enjoy using the most. I hope you take the time to visit Vickie's shop to see what adorable images she has available and they are also in jpg format. There is also some fantastic WordArt that works very well with those images and I have used one of those sentiments here.

Thanks so much for stopping by today and if you have time to leave me a comment I'll be sure to stop by and see what's new in blogland with you.  "Hugs" Granny (Carol)

Mandy's Candy for Followers

If you haven't ever visited Mandy's Blog, A Sprinkling of Glitter, you are missing out on some gorgeous designs. I've been a follower for quite some time and I love her delicate, glitzy, and feminine style. There was no requirement to enter the candy, didn't have to post this or do anything else, but wanted you to know about this in case you were interested in checking it out and becoming a follower.

Thanks for stopping by! "Hugs" Granny (Carol)

Use Something UNUSED at For Fun Challenges This Week

This is one challenge you won't want to miss and everyone can play along. The only requirement at For Fun is that you use something you have never used before, be it new, dusty, old, borrowed, etc. Can't get much easier than this so I hope you will join us this week at For Fun.

The things I used to create this card:

• Image - Whoopsie Daisey "Xmas Girl with Muff" - New
• DP digital paper from Cool Scraps and Fresh Snow from Reminisce - both new
• Spellbinder's Oval Die
• Stardust Stickles
• Copics: V01 & V00 - YR 31, YR24, Y21, Y11, Y00 - V09 & V01 - E000, E00, R20 
• Poinsettias from Wild Orchid Crafts colored with copics and stickles added

By now you all know that purple hues are my favorite hues so I really enjoyed making this card. I love this image from Whoopsie Daisey and was going to enter it in their monthly challenge but it doesn't qualify this month so maybe I'll just have to do another one.........lol

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon.  Please leave me a comment so I can come visit and see what's new in blogland with you.

"Hugs" Granny (Carol)

TMIA-PCC Monday Snow Flake Challenge

Happy Magical Monday to you all and I hope you have a fantastic week ahead!

Making Christmas cards is one of my favorite themed cards and I love the challenge by Pat of  the DT at TMIA-PCC for this weeks challenge.  We are to make a Christmas card using snowflakes. I'm looking forward to seeing your beautiful Christnas card creation with snowflakes.

I hope you will join us this week at PCC.

This week I've used the following items for this card:

• New image just released by Nina - "Oh Dear, It's Christmas" 
• This weeks Sketch from Sketch & Stash
• Spellbinder's Die
• MS Snowflake Punch
• Copics for coloring
• Aqua & Star Dust Stickles
• DP from last year's Christmas papers

My life has been crazy for the past two weeks and my front door is like a revolving door where someone is going out and coming in at the same time...LOL  We've had a lot of company and I haven't gotten to spend near as much time crafting or visiting you to leave comments as I normally would do, and for that I apologize. You are always in my thoughts and visiting you is one of my greatest joys because you leave me totally inspired to create something that I hope is as beautiful as your creations.

Friday my husband has surgery so I'm charging up the new laptop, and if nothing else for the week after, I'll at least have the time to come by and visit all of you.  My posts will be scheduled for next week and I'm hoping all goes well and they post as scheduled.

Now hop on over to There's Magic In The Air/Paper Cupcakes to see the fantastic creations by the design team and get your image for this weeks challenge of a Christmas card with snowflakes.

Thanks so much for stoppin by and I hope to see you again soon. Please be sure to leave me a comment so I can come visit to see your beautiful creations.

"Hugs" Granny (Carol)