BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS!

Boy, this last week "LIFE" has really taken up a lot of my time!!  Why can't I just squeeze in a little more time to do what "I" want -- CREATING???  I even have a "to-do" list for every day (which I'm sure all women do).  However, it seems I'm never getting to this list until late afternoon because there are always these "can you do this" requests at the last minute.  So today's post is a little late and it will be short (mark that on your calendar).

This month my card class was all about birthdays.  So let me share with you what I came up with for my stamping friends:

Stampin' Up product used:  Secret Garden and Happiest Birthday Wishes Stamp Sets; Whisper White, Basic Black, and Daffodil Delight Card Stock; Basic Black, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, and Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink; Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Daffodil Delight 1/4" Grosgrain Stitched Ribbon, White Baker's Twine; and Tag Punch.

 

Stampin' Up product used:  Summer Afternoon Hostess Stamp Set; Basic Black Classic Ink; Naturals Ivory, Basic Black, and Summer Starfruit Card Stock; Patio Party and First Edition Specialty Designer Papers; Summer Starfruit, Chocolate Chip, Gumball Green, and Basic Gray Markers; and Summer Starfruit Satin Stitched Ribbon.

Stampin' Up product used:  Feeling Sentimental and Oh, Hello Stamp Sets; Whisper White, Basic Gray, and Riding Hood Red Card Stock; and Fan Fair Designer Series Paper.

As a little gift for my friends I made these little charms, monogrammed with their initials, to tie on their craft bags, key chain, scissors, or whatever they wished.  They loved them.  I still haven't made one for myself, but here are a few of them (front and back pictures):

Stampin' Up product used:  Silver Soda Pop Tops (crushed in Stampin' Up's Big Shot); Lovely Letters Alphabet Stamp Set; Fan Fair Designer Series Paper; VersaMark Ink; Melon Mambo Embossing Powder; Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon; Rhinestone; and Crystal Effects.

On the back of the charms I used the same product as the front except I used the Collage Curios Stamp Set and the 3/4" Circle Punch with the 1" Circle Punch.

 

And finally, I have a winner to announce from my last blog post asking the name of the discontinued stamp set used for my birthday card.  And the winner drawn was (drum-roll please):

A Touch of Sol: Marisol Gutierrez

Marisol, please e-mail me with your address so I can get your card in the mail.  After posting my card, and based on the many comments I received, I think Stampin' Up should bring back this Hostess Set because everybody wants it (including my best friend who I have left it to in my will -- LOL).  I will be updating this post to include all the product used in the creation.

Until next time,

Sandi
"Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. "  -- Matthew 6:34

MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR 25 YEARS!!

Just in case you haven't heard the hottest news around town:  Stampin' Up is celebrating 25 years of making a difference this year!!!  I am so happy to be part of this celebration -- so much fun already, and so much more to come.  We are seeing so many new products, new options for buying this product, and to-die-for creations!!  All of this while still maintaining the core values of Stampin' Up -- with the focus on making a difference in people's lives personally and professionally, locally and globally!!  Stampin' Up's philanthropic efforts include celebrating 10 years as sponsors of Ronald McDonald House Charities, breast cancer research, heart health, and many organizations dedicated to helping people recover from disasters.

Personally as a demonstrator, I love being able to make a difference by sharing what I love and spending time with friends at my events and those sponsored by Stampin' Up.  Now is the time to join the Stampin' Up team.  Just click on the "E-mail Me" link on the right to find out more and make this happen!!

In honor of the celebration, I picked out one of my very favorite stamp sets from the past and had fun making a card for my granddaughter's birthday party last Tuesday.  This stamp set fit her personality to a "T" -- I thought of it immediately when I got ready to make her card.  I'm not going to tell you what the name of the stamp set is or what product I used -- I WANT YOU TO GUESS!!  Just remember it is not a current set -- that's the only hint you get!  Submit your guess in a comment below and I will pick a winner next week.  No, you are NOT going to win the stamp set -- I wouldn't give it up for any amount of money.  But I will send you the card and a little surprise.

So, GAME ON, here is the card:



One of my most very favorite Stampin' Up stamp sets!!!  Can you guess the name?  Extra credit if you guess the year!!



Inside of the card.

Can't wait to see your answers!!

UPDATED 2-20-2013:  Product used:  2005-2006 Haute Couture Hostess Level 2, Established Elegance, Happiest Birthday Thoughts, and Trust God Stamp Sets; Always Artichoke and Watercolor Card Stock; Regals Collection Designer Series Pack; Jet Black StazOn Ink; Amazing Accent Wheel; Watercolor Wonder Crayons; Aqua Painter; Rhinestones; Linen Thread; Natural Cotton and Rasberry Ripple Satin Stitched Ribbon; and Tag Punch.

Until next time,
Sandi

"When adversity strikes us, God is ready to strengthen us."  --  Author Unknown

STAMPIN' UP SALE-A-BRATION -- WAHOO!!

Had lots of fun over the weekend.  Friday I spent the day visiting and stamping with my middle daughter, Deborah; more stampin' on Sunday with daughter Tricia while playing with my great-grandson and trying to burn my house down -- just for Stampin' Up!!  (More to that story below.)  Honestly, there is never a dull-moment in my house.  But you know, "life" is for living; and I try to live every day like it is my last (which it almost was Saturday).  My husband finally asked me today why the house smelled like there was a fire!  I laughed so hard I couldn't hardly get the story out of my mouth -- couldn't believe it took him almost 2 days before he noticed (I told my daughter I was going to test him to see if his "smeller" still worked). 

Okay, I promised to show you the rest of the cards we did at card class last weekend.  I know, what was the hold-up??  Well, I wanted to also show you this cute box I made for the WOW table at Ronda Wade's RubberQueens Founder's Circle Event she has as a reward for demonstrators meeting certain criteria.  Problem was I ended up giving the box to Ronda (with special Stampin' Up! cookie inside) and forgot to take a picture.  I made about 50 cookies to take besides that one, but they were also all gone. 

So all week I kept saying I was going to make some more cookies and that just didn't happen. Therein I came up with this brainstorm to make "one" cookie that wouldn't mold to put in my cute box.  So, I dumped a little flour, butter, and salt (don't know why I added that, but all recipes call for a pinch of salt) in a bowl and mixed it up like pie dough, stamped it with the "Stampin' Up!" cookie stamp (last year's Convention item). 

Being the impatient person that I am, I stuck it in the microwave for 4 minutes.  And, like the good cook that I am, I checked it at 2 minutes -- still looked like it needed more time, so put it back in for last 2 minutes, then went back downstairs to stamp.  All of a sudden my daughter says she smells something burning and went upstairs to check.  She starts screaming at me that there is a fire.  Who would have thought?!?!!?  I didn't take her seriously until I came upstairs and couldn't see through the smoke to get to the microwave.  Needless to say, I won't be making any "no mold" cookies again.  Can't wait to get my electric bill next month, as I had to open all the windows (with the furnace running continuously) and put the ceiling fans on, light tons of candles, washed my microwave down with soda paste (all the scorch marks are still there).  Morale of story:  Do as the micro-wave directions say:  Do Not Leave Your Micro-wave Unattended!!"

And here is the "famous box":

Now isn't this "smokin"!!  And what makes it even more "smokin" is the fact you can get this Simply Sent Happy Hello card kit FREE!!  You get 8 cards and envelopes and everything to decorate this card from Stampin' Up's Sale-A-Bration promotion going on right now!!  (NOTE:  There is no cookie in my cello bag!! -- sad face.)  The box will also hold little note cards, which I plan on doing for my next box.

We made this box and note cards at Ronda's Founder's Circle.  Another stamp set you can earn FREE during Sale-A-Bration:  Patterned Occasions Stamp Set.  Love it!!

Top of box close-up.

Another FREE Sale-A-Bration Stamp Set:  Madison Avenue.  We did this card at my last card class.

Here is the inside, using one of the five sentiments from, "Feel Goods Stamp Set."

I loved this card (shown previously) so much that I included it in my last card class.  All the stamps (plus more) are in the "Happy Hour Stamp Set."

And here is the inside of the card using another FREE Sale-A-Bration set:  "Vintage Verses."

Do you want to earn any of these free Sale-A-Bration products?  It is so easy, call me to find out how!!

Until next time,
Sandi

"In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." — Proverbs 3:6

CELEBRATING VALENTINE'S DAY WITH STAMPIN' UP!!

Yep, Valentine's Day is just around the corner!  Next to Christmas, Valentine's Day is my next favorite time to make cards.  And let me tell you, Stampin' Up came out with so many awesome stamps and accessories in the Spring Mini Catalog that I had a hard time coming up with just one card design for my class this Saturday.  If you haven't received your catalog, you absolutely must contact me so you can see for yourself. 

Today I am featuring one of my cards for class on Saturday.  I have a lot of Valentine's Day samples but I always seem to end up creating a "me" card.  Don't know why I do that because I could save myself so much time when preparing for my classes.  I do have one card (received as a swap card at leadership) that I plan on copying for class as it was so cheerful.  I'll show pictures of the other cards in my next post.


Yep, had to do a little Shabby Chic for my card.  I'm in love with the new More Amore Speciality Designer Series Paper!!  This card also features the new Hearts A Flutter Framelits Die, Hearts Collection Framelits, Delightful Dozen Stamp Set, Mini Heart Punch, Champagne Shimmer, and new Natural Trim Burlap Ribbon.

 

These other three cards were designed by Ronda Wade, which I made at her Baggie Book event last month:

Designed by Ronda Wade, using the new Hearts a Flutter Stamp Set, Polka Dot Embossing Folder, and new Paper Doilies.

 

Designed by Ronda Wade, showcasing the new Henry Says Stamp Set.

 

Designed by Ronda Wade, using the new Honeycomb Embossing Folder, Hearts A Flutter Stamp Set and Framelits Dies, and Pool Party Core'dinations Card Stock (love all of the Core'dinations Card Stock!!)

Until next time,
Sandi

“At that moment I experienced the presence of the Divine as I never experienced Him before. It seemed as though I could hear the quiet assurance of an inner voice saying, ‘Stand up for righteousness, stand up for truth; and God will be at your side forever.’ Almost at once my fears began to go. My uncertainty disappeared. I was ready to face anything.”

 --  Martin Luther King, Jr.

STAMPIN' UP LEADERSHIP!

Yes, I really was at Leadership learning lots of new ideas to share with you!!

Do I work for a great company or what!!  I just got home from Stampin' Up Leadership a couple of hours ago and am filled to the brim with tons of new ideas and new information.  Stay tuned for tomorrow when Stampin' Up unveils some new and awesome product.  Here are a few of the things to look forward to:

• THE PAPER PUMPKIN!!  Check out the website Here: https://mypaperpumpkin.com/  A SURPRISE KIT of supplies delivered to your door every month for only $19.95 (includes shipping and tax!!).

Here are answers to some of the questions you might have: 

Q: What comes in my Paper Pumpkin?

A: It's a surprise each month-anticipation for the surprise is seriously half the fun! No worries, though, you'll have everything you need to complete the project: paper, stamps, ink, accessories, and more! (You will need adhesive.)

Q: Does my Paper Pumpkin project come with instructions?

A: Yes, of course it does. The instructions will tell you everything you need to know. And they are so easy to follow-we promise.

Q: How long will it take to make each Paper Pumpkin project? (Now say that fast three times.)

A: We know you wish you had unlimited creativity time (we all do), but since you probably don't, we designed each Paper Pumpkin to be completed in 30 minutes or less! (We think of it as a spa treatment for your creativity.)

Q: Should I get on the Paper Pumpkin carriage?

A: Definitely, yes.  Just think of it-a Stampin' Up! surprise delivered to your doorstep every month (wahooo!).  Paper Pumpkin offers a simple, creative experience each month. What's more-sometimes, your monthly kit features . . . wait for it . . . some exclusive products you can only get through Paper Pumpkin. Try it and see what you think. You can cancel your membership any time.

Q: How much does a Paper Pumpkin membership cost each month?

A: Paper Pumpkin is $19.95 per month.  Because your Paper Pumpkin ships automatically to you, we have already built in the shipping costs of $5.00 to the cost of each kit.

Q: How do I start my Paper Pumpkin membership?

A: It's so easy - GO HERE https://mypaperpumpkin.com/ AND SIGN UP.

Q: When does my membership expire?

A: Your membership will last until you cancel it.

Q: When do I need to sign up in order to get my Paper Pumpkin?

A: You need to sign up by the 10th of the month in order to receive your Paper Pumpkin for that month. If you sign up after the 10th―no worries! You will get your first kit the following month. You'll know your Paper Pumpkin is on its way when you receive your shipment confirmation e-mail.

Q: Can I skip a month?

A: You sure can! Simply log on to your account on www.mypaperpumpkin.com and click skip a month before the 10th of the month in order to skip the Paper Pumpkin for that month. If you click skip a month on the 11th of the month, you will receive that month's Paper Pumpkin and not receive the following month's Paper Pumpkin.

Q: What if I want to cancel my membership?

A: You must submit a 10-page essay about why you would ever want to do such a crazy thing. (Just kidding.) It's simple. All you need to do is log on to your Paper Pumpkin account on www.mypaperpumpkin.com and choose cancel before the 10th of the month and you will not receive any more Paper Pumpkin kits (how sad). If you cancel on the 11th of the month, you'll receive that month's Paper Pumpkin and will not receive any more Paper Pumpkin kits.

Q: What is the return policy?

A: If you are not thrilled with your Paper Pumpkin, please call us at 1-800-STAMP UP, we'll chat and make everything hunky dory.

• SOMETHING FOR THE MAN (DUDE) IN YOUR LIFE!! You are going to love this -- THE DUDE KIT!!  It is designed for men who normally wouldn't be caught dead stamping!  I am ordering 2 of these tomorrow!!  One for me and one for my hubby.  (More info to come.)

Okay, I think that is enough exciting news in one post.  The main thing I want to say is that you have to see this new product in person to understand how awesome and fun it is -- so get to my next card class to see my samples!!  Can't make it to class -- call me to set up an appointment to check it out.  Oh, one more little detail:
My first 8 customers to sign up for membership to the PAPER PUMPKIN will receive a gift from me!!  So check it out!

Time for some more Leadership project pictures:

You might want to right-click on these pictures, select "open link in new tab" to enlarge and see these beautiful boxes.  All of these were made from one kit of the Boutique Boxes Kit.

  

Couldn't get them all in one picture.

 

Pop-Up Posies Designer Kit sample.

 

Artisan Embellishments Kit (bad lighting -- sorry).

 

Artisan Embellishments Kit -- this was so beautiful in person.

Until next time,

 

Sandi

"Peace I leave with you."  -- John 14:27

LEADERSHIP CHECK-IN DAY!

Talk about going from frigid winter weather into 80 degree sunshine!!  Yes, I made it safe and sound to Orlando yesterday.  Had a very nice afternoon and evening doing NOTHING but sitting by the pool and enjoying the weather.  Today was check-in for Stampin' Up's Leadership event.  Had a relaxing morning by the pool, then went to the convention center an hour early to swap and meet up with friends.  Another awesome day with beautiful weather.

Here is a picture of the pool and some samples using the new product from the Stampin' Up Spring Mini Catalog.

This spot is getting to be my home away from home!

 

Samples using the Artisan Embellishments Kit (next 4 pictures) -- so beautiful!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

I have many more samples, but will post more tomorrow.

 

Until next time,

Sandi

 

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." —  Philippians 4:13

BIRTHDAYS AND SWAP CARDS

Don't ask me why I am sitting here at my computer when I have got a 2-page list of "Things to Do" before leaving at 3 a.m. tomorrow for Leadership in Florida!  But it has been a week since I last posted, and I have no idea how much time I will have in Florida to update my blog.  I really feel very blessed to have the opportunity to attend Leadership.  Normally you have to be a Senior Supervisor, or above, to attend Leadership, but this year all demonstrators were allowed to attend.  And, I am doubly blessed because this is Stampin' Up's 25-year celebration!! 

Last night at 11 p.m., I changed my mind and decided to do a few swap cards for Leadership.  I wasn't going to do any because my mojo just isn't clicking in lately, but I couldn't get to sleep so got back up and made this as my swap card:

I love this new Swallowtail Stamp.  This large background butterfly stamp is so beautiful you really don't even need to color.  I did use SU's Sponge Daubers to apply Summer Starfruit and their Water Pen to apply the Marina Mist Classic Inks.  I also used the brand new mini Butterfly Punch and Ticket Duo Punch.

 

I honestly have not seen anybody use this Happy Hour Stamp Set (in current Stampin' Up 2012-2013 Catalog) -- but I think it is so cute.  This was the perfect set to use for my BFF's birthday in a couple of weeks.  So simple, but really a WOW card in person.  I will be doing this card at my next class for sure!!

 

Here is the inside of the card (new Sale-A-Bration stamp set:  Vintage Verses).  Call me to see how you can get this beautiful 4-piece stamp set for free!!

 

Couldn't leave you today without showing you Stampin' Up's semi-truck parked at the Orlando Convention Center with, hopefully, tons of goodies for us!!
I love it, and I bet the drivers had a ton of fun driving this from Salt Lake City to Orlando.

 

I hope I will get some good pictures to post while I am down there!

 

Until next time,

Sandi

"May the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all."

-- 1 Thessalonians 3:12