Here is a CAS (clean and simple) card I did for a challenge found on splitcoaststampers.com (LSC205). Everything was to be simple, minimal embellishments, minimal layers, minimal colors etc... I chose to keep it white (crisp) and use the American Heart Assoc. Red Dress sticker I got in the mail last week. February 6, 2009 is National Wear Red Day . Heart disease is the number one killer among women. Please show your support.

OMG... we got a ton of snow today. It took me and a few kind neighbors 2 hours to clear my driveway. I really appreciate their help. Jan. 2009 is coming close to breaking records for all-time snow fall levels in this area. We'll see if that happens.

Participated in a Cupcake Challenge celebration hosted at a SCS members blog spot http://tayloredexpressions.blogspot.com/ .... made 9 cards using various sketches and cupcakes galore. I love cupcakes, how perfect! YUM!!!!!Here are my submissions.

Had minimal amount of snow this a.m. but, the temps are still low (above 0 but, low nevertheless). Kids played in the snow a little bit this afternoon. Finally, made a pot of chili. I have been craving chili for two weeks but never got around to making some. I think this batch is a little more spicy than usual.

I worked this a.m., had a hair cut this afternoon, and have been trying to get pictures organized for a scrapbook weekend trip I have coming up soon. I have not stamped at all today :(

Here is a sample of a Tim Holtz inspired tag I made for my MIL's birthday in December. I used metallic pencils, chipboard, 3D paint, Glitter, re-used ribbons, and adhesive gems. I love the way it turned out- the picture is not that great (I apologize). Speaking of Tim Holtz... he released 12 new stamp sets today. They will be available through Stamper's Anonymous soon. Check it out:

http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/

Getting a special birthday present ready to be wrapped. One of my dearest friends will be turning 40. She is a big fan of PANDORA jewelry so I wanted to get her a charm to add to one of her bracelet strands. Found this ultra cool authentic crystal ring too. I hope she like them.

Dug out some cool American Crafts papers. Used a Cuttlebug folder to add texture to the striped portion. Used a Martha Stewart scallop punch border to add to the mustard trim near the center. I cut out a flower from the floral print on the paper, attached it to black CS, and used pop dot to attach to the left center strip. Making Memories Polka Dot brad finishes it off. I love these funky colors. Celebrate rub- on used for the sentiment. Decorate dthe inside with the floral paper and mustard border trim. I found a metallic pink flower rub-on (Heidi Swapp) that coordinates fabulously with this paper and placed it in the bottom left corner (inside).

Non-Cheesy Valentine Challenge

Ok, been trying to do a couple challenges from SCS a week. Just got this new SU! stamp set (LOVE YOU MUCH) but the papers that coordinate are backordered. I used some older Valentine papers to make these 3 x 4.25 inch one sided Valentines. I love the way the teal, pink, and cocoa look in these papers.

Wow! It has been sooooo cold and supposed to get colder tomorrow. YIKES! had time this evening to do a challenge from SCS (my favorite stamp website). I combined two challenges into one card. The color challenge combination (Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze,Kraft) this is using a specific layout. I liked the way this turned out- very easy layout and interesting color combination. Thanks for stopping by.

Well, my Saturday Calendar Workshop was cancelled secondary to the inclement weather. We got a lot of snow this weekend. The roads were better today. I made it to the grocery store (finally) and I had a couple girls show up today and work on their calendars. It is starting to snow again now. My kids are hoping for a "Snow Day" tomorrow. I don't think their wish will come true.

I finally got into some stamping this weekend, I have been in such a "RUT". I did some card challenges from SCS, some Valentines (Basic Grey), and Vintage Valentine Postcards for a swap on SCS I am hosting. You should check it out: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=404310

Hope you are all staying warm, and getting some well deserved stamping time this weekend/ upcoming week.

CALENDAR WORKSHOP IN THE WORKS

I did not think I would say this but, I am glad the holidays are over. Everything is cleaned up and packed away until next year. It was such a busy time and it always drains me mentally, physically, and my bank account.

I have been trying to get used to my work schedule (I went back this week), home schedule, and workshop planning and then coordinating them for maximum efficiency. I have been planning some workshops and technique workshops for the upcoming months.

I have a calendar workshop this weekend. I am offering two styles to choose from: a small wall mount and a (Perpetual?) desk style. I have not had too many interested participants. I have a few spots available :(

I think they turned out cute (the pictures do not do justice). I am not a good photographer- sorry.