Better time to Scrap

A Patchwork Christmas

2010-11-18T12:01:00.000-06:00

My next Christmas card class is this weekend and I'm frantically getting things together. I'm a little OCD when it comes to having things ready. I know it's only Thursday, but I'm beginning to panic. This card is what I call my 'lets clean out the scrap box card'. I used the scraps I have accumulated from the Jolly Holiday DSP pack. I have a box full of these scraps so I should have enough for 30 cards on Sunday.
I have 15 people who are coming to this class and I have come up with 5 cards. They will be making 2 cards of each design. I hope they like them.

I cased this card right off of Stampin Connections. I borrowed the stamp set to put the card together and like the set so much I bought it. It's a stamp set from last year 'Season of Joy'. Isn't it strange how you don't give a stamp set a second look and all of a sudden you see something in it and you just gotta have it. I have noticed that alt in me this year. I guess my creativity is evolving. LOL. The holidays are approaching fast and I've been concentrating on classes and online workshops, that I haven't even begun to think about cards for my family and friends. I do have a few project in mind, and really need to get busy. Happy Scrappin!!!

To Infinity and Beyond

2010-10-27T00:20:00.001-05:00

My Great Nephew will be 2 next month and loves the toy story character especially Buzz. I was searching on Stampin Connections for a card to make when I found this, and cased him from Ellen Kemper. Wow, my good friend and fellow demonstrator Carla and I made 4 of these and it took us nearly 4 hours. He is constructed from our punches. lots of detail work. All I can say is Ellen you are the bomb. I'm going to encase him in a shadow box frame and I hope Desmond enjoys him as much as I did putting him together.

230 Cards later!

2010-10-23T21:22:00.001-05:00

Yep, that's what I said !! 230 cards cut and made ready for 23 of the greatest scrappers. 20 of us crammed into the back room of our local Pizza restaurant and for 4 hours we laughed, giggled, glued, taped and sparkled our way through 10 Christmas cards. We had handcrafted door prizes and I think everyone went home happy. I love doing these classes. This was my second one and a huge success. I'm now planning for class number 3.
Here is a sample of the cards we did. All of the cards here were made whith current SU products.

The first card shown, uses the new stamp set 'Come to Bethlehem'. I used Next to Navy Card stock and Not Quite Navy Classic Ink.

This next cards was made with a stamp set I bought last year and never used. Now I think why? It is so much fun. 'Holiday Lineup', I colored it with Cherry Cobbler and Old Olive markers. The DSP I used is from the Jolly Holiday Paper pack. I also used Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler cardstock and Very Vanilla Satin ribbon, and for that finishing touch I added pearls to their hats.

This Card was cased straight off of Stampin Connections. I can't remember the Demonstrators name but this card is awesome. This stamp set 'Delightful Decorations' is so versitile. Again I used my favorite colors of Cherry Cobbler and Old Olive. The ribbon is actually the Cherry Cobbler Seam binding. Makes for a really smart looking card. I just love it.

And Along comes 'Dasher'. This card was made with the DSP we received at the close of convention this year. 'Deck the Halls', I also used Crumb cake, Cherry Cobbler, and Almost Artichoke cardstock.

This is just a few of the cards we did during class. I will post more later. Finding time to create, case and cut these cards for class is a labor of love and I look forward to bringing you more.

SOOO Cute

2010-10-14T08:29:00.000-05:00

I cased this card and changed the base color a bit. The original card used More Mustard and Very Vanilla. I switched it out using Canjun Craze and Old Olive. This is my first attempt with the new Owl punch and I love this little guy. I did add the google eyes for fun. I made several of these for a swap I'm participating in Saturday at an all day demonstrator event. I'm looking forward to showing my little guy off. I think I'm gonna keep one for my self though.

Christmas Card Work Shop

2010-09-15T10:38:00.002-05:00

Is It Really To Early To Think About Christmas?

Not around here!!

Now is the time to start thinking about those Holiday projects, before time gets away from you. This past weekend I had a wonderful time with a group of wonderful ladies (and my granddaughter), making Christmas cards using items from the New Stampin Up Mini Catalog. Each lady received a packet containing 10 card kits. 2 cards each of 5 designs. We spent the next 3 hours in fun conversation, putting these kits together. I used the 'A Cute Christmas' stamp set and 'Candy Cane Christmas' Speciality Designer Series paper' on most of the cards. I have so much fun designing and making up these kits ans the ladies. I think really enjoyed them, and have asked for another class in October. I'm going to mix it up this time so I had better get busy.

I've expanded my business opportunities and have added Avon Representative to my resume. I'm frantically search for different ways to bring income into my household, since the job search has turned out to be such a miserable failure. It's just a shame that I can't find a job. I really do like working, and I miss the camaraderie of co-workers. I will find my niche, soon I hope. In the mean time I keep promoting my love for Stampin Up!

I'm disappointed in myself for letting my Scrap Divas fall by the wayside. I really enjoyed the whole idea of getting together with friends across the country and exchanging ideas and swapping projects. The economy has seem to hit hard everywhere. I'm going to try hard to revive it this fall. I really miss all of my scrappin friends. Please take a look at our site and join us, maybe we can breathe new life to it. http://scrapdivas.spruz.com

Well I have better get to work. Time to Scrap!!!!

Candle art

2010-08-22T19:44:00.000-05:00

I have had these bare candles for some time and they always looked so boring to me. I went to a all day workshop and one of the projects we did was this technique. Walaa!! No more boring candles. This medallion stamp is one of my favorites, There are so many different things you can create with it. I used it previously by stamping on a tile. I just love it.
I have been stamping with Stampin Up for about a year and a half now and I am amazed at the talented demonstrators I have met. My love affair with Stampin Up! is still as strong as it was when I was introduced to it. I can't get enough of it. Right now I'm working on designing 5 cards for my Christmas in September workshop. I have all my stamps set picked out, paper packs bought, and the designs are floating around in my head just waiting for me to put ink to paper. I'm really getting excited.
The new Holiday mini catalog is getting ready to launch on September first, and it is fabulous, 44 pages of OMG. If anyone out there really does read this and wants one just send me an email at rhondalb55@aol.com and I will pop one in the mail for you.
Time to go. Happy Scrappin!!!!

Convention

2010-08-14T10:03:00.000-05:00

Wow. I'm such a bad blogger. It has been months since I have been here. I think the biggest problem is that I live in a rural area and I'm stuck with a dial up connection at this time and updating this blog becomes more of a chore that an pleasure. Unfortunately that is the sign of the times and I just need to get a grip on it.
Any way, back to reality.

I had a wonder opportunity to go with 5 other Stampin Up demonstrators in my group to attend the Annual Convention in Salt Lake City, last month and it was such a great time. We got tons of free stuff, and lots of information to bring home to share. Here are the 4 cards I made to swap and all of the really great cards I brought back. Next year I'm gonna start earlier and make alot more cards to swap. These swaps are a valuable part of my business, as they give me lots of examples and Ideas.
My Internet Mystery hostess club ended in July and a new one begins this month. I have changed it to a 6 month club instead of a year. I still have 2 spots open if anyone out there is interested. each month you place a 25.00 order and one member is the hostess and receives the hostess benefits. It's a great opportunity to get free product with out the fuss. Please email me a t rhondalb55@aol.com for more details.
Well, my scrappin friends, I had better run. I really need to get some 'chores' done so I can start playing.
Happy Scrappin

Branson, Mo. Retreat

2010-04-18T09:40:00.000-05:00

Good morning everyone. I'm sitting here and it's all quiet now, the stampers are all still asleep. Amber and I are having a wonderful time at the retreat, we have already made 6 really great projects. I believe we have 3 more today. ( I forgot the cord for my camera so I can't post pictures, but I will when I get back home). We will also trade our own swaps today. I can't wait to see what everyone has brought to share. The weather, to me has been perfect, Not to warm and the sun has shined all weekend.
We got here just after 1:30 on Friday, after we drove around Branson Lost for about an hour, But that ok we got the lay of the land and it is beautiful. We all arrived around the same time and took the afternoon gabbing. After getting all settled We made homemade pizza and worked on a couple of projects. Yesterday we went site seeing and did a little shopping. We found a wonderful little scrapbook store (who would have thought we'd go looking for more scrapbooking stuff) and had lots of fun in there. We also found a wonderful jewerly store. Every thing was a Dollar and they had purses half price. I bought a few things for my granddaughters and of course I bought a BIG purse, (I think I could fit a small child in here. It's gonna be great for hauling my scrap book stuff around to classes and workshops.) I'm not really a purse person, so I'm gonna have to go purchase a bunch of stuff to fill this up. After looking around town and deciding we need to come back with our families, we all met up for dinner at Fall Creek Catfish and steak house. Wonderful food and they were throwing rolls at us. We came back to the condo and did 3 projects, there are 8 of us here and we have talked, laughed, giggled, teared up and had he most wonderful time, and I think we have all learned a lot more about marketing our business, how to better promote and demonstrate our products and I am really stoked about bringing that full circle and using it to promote and grow my own Stampin Up! business. This weekend with other SU Demonstrators has reinforced the reason I became a demo and why I love Stampin Up Products and the company. This is our last full day here and our team leader has more surprises in store for us. Thank you Rochelle for a wonderful group and for bringing us all together this weekend.

Valentine Mini Album

2010-02-06T10:34:00.000-06:00

I have acquired a passion for mini albums lately and can't seem to get enough of it. I created this one for a dear lady who belongs to my NING group: http://scrapdivas.ning.com She has been such a good sport about converting from a yahoo group to the ning group. Creating these mini albums with someone in mind makes it so much more fun. I just need to make one for myself. Maybe the next one.

I have been busy trying to promote my Stampin Up business and I can start to see the rewards. I just signed up my first recruit, (welcome Amber), and I'm so excited to help her to become a success. She has taken over the monthly card club I held at her house, so this month I'm going as a member, I'm looking forward to see what she has designed for us. But the means I have to get on the ball and start a new club. We are 1 month into out Sale-a-bration campaign and it's going really well, the introduction of the new clear mount stamp sets is going great. I have purchased several for my demonstrations an have had nothing but positive feedback.

If you are interested in seeing the new Mini catalog please visit my website http://rhondastamps.stampinup.net remember for every 50.00 you spend with Stampin Up you receive an item from the Sale-a-bration mini flyer. There are some awesome items in there, check it out.

I'm still getting the hang of being a design team member for http://scrappyaccents.ning.com Theresa has some great ideas for us in the coming month. If you like to take part in challenges this is the place to be.

Well it's time to stop procrastinating and get dressed, I'm off to the used furniture store to find the perfect scrap table. Wish me Luck!!

Happy Scrappin

Challenges

2010-01-10T09:37:00.000-06:00

As a member of the Design team on http://Scrappyaccents.ning.com one of my responsibilities is to come up with challenges for the members. I posted my challenge today. the picture you see is my interpretation of the sketch I used for my challenge. I'm really looking forward to participating in other challenges and swaps on this site. And I can't wait to see what the members create. If you get a chance check this out. There a lots of talented and friendly people.

It has been a busy month for me. My friend Amber and I designed a new site to replace Scrappin_Swappin_Spot. Even though it was a great spot I wanted to offer my member more. Following in the footsteps of Scrappy Accents, we developed http://Scrapdivas.ning.com I think it is an awesome site. Amber worked really hard putting some great graphics out there and personalizing the site. She spent hour making sure that there were step by step instructions to help our members navigate around. Invites went out on Wednesday evening, and we have recaptured all most all of our members. We have even have several new members. I am so excited about this site and I hope it is a giant success. If you get a chance check us out. We offer swaps, games, A Secret Sister group, live chat and a place to display your creations. Best of all its a place to come to make friends who share the love of scrapbooking, and card making.
Happy Scrappin!!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T18:42:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas to by cyber family. I am with each of you in my heart. We celebrated with our family on Christmas eve. All the kids were here and The grand kids seemed to enjoy their gifts. I just wish the holiday would last just a little longer. Today, Christmas, The kids are visiting with their dad, and It has been very quiet here. I'm all cuddled up in my super soft lap blanket that was a gift from Josh. Janel and Aaron gave me s set of candles that will look awesome on my fireplace mantle. I got a Polaroid picture frame from Jeremy and Shawn and it is loaded with pictures of the kids and grand kids. I can't wait to add more.
I just wanted to touch base, and my goal for the new year is to upgrade my blog and hopefully make it more appealing, and draw more followers. I'm going to dig into my scrap room/office and make it more scrap room and less office. I seem to be running out of room, it is amazing how much I have accumulated in just one year. It's been a good year. I have made so many new friends, (many I have never met.) and I have learned so many new things. I'm really going to concentrate on thinking outside the box, and build my Stampin Up business.
Thank you so much for your inspirations.
Merry Christmas!!

Time Flies

2009-12-04T04:08:00.004-06:00

Wow! Where does the time go. I have been busy finishing up project for the holiday and it seems to be sneaking up on me fast. So much has been going on. I have just become a member of a new Ning group. http://www.scrappyaccents.ning.com/ it's just getting started but it is growing fast. I am very excited about getting to know my new scrappin family. I am also following a blog of one of our members it's http://www.sketchesforyou.blogspot.com/ and she is giving away blog candy this month. You have to go take a look, she offers awesome sketches. I look forward to sharing her inspiration. My site is growing and I invite you all to come take a look and join in. http://www.Croppin_Swappin_Spot@yahoogroups.com/

we are a small group of wonderful ladies who love to swap cards, tags, pages.

I got the tree up and the family room decorated. Now it's time to do some shopping and finish my gift projects. Hope to see you soon. Happy Scrappin.

Christmas Already?

2009-11-05T09:32:00.003-06:00

Here are a couple of make and take project we did at my last Stampin Up! team meeting. I can't believe it's November all ready and the Holiday's will be on top of us before you know it. Time to start planning those craft projects. I already have several in mind.

With the economy the way it is this year my family is going to get homemade gifts. I hope they will look at them as gifts from the heart. I have been scouring the internet for ideas and have forund some very interesting project to tackle.

I am working part time now, and it really helps, but I have found it cuts into my scrap time. I think I can come up with a nice balance if I really work on it. The yahoo group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Croppin_Swappin_Spot has really grown over the last month, and I'm really looking forward to getting to know my extended family more. I have also joined a ning group http://scrappyaccents.ning.com It's a great group of ladies and the site has a lot of cool features. I think it will take some getting used to but it's gonna be fun.

WEll, I'm up to my ears in projects today so I had better get busy. Happy Scrappin!!

Blog Candy

2009-09-19T07:43:00.005-05:00

Finally! Do you know how long I have been trying to get this photo to load. I have dial up and it's horrible. But I really wanted you to see this. I made this for a swap I'm doing on my Yahoo group. The swap actually ends today so I'm really looking forward to seeing the rest of them. We have some awesome ladies with tons of talent. I have so much fun decorating gift bags. I'm now searching the internet for Christmas ideas, for another swap I'm hosting.
Visit my blog and link to yours and send me a comment to be put in a drawing for some cool stuff. I need followers!!
I found a part time job, I should say the job found me. I love scrapbooking workshops. I was at one and one of my friends had a position available and I tried it and liked it so I'm now employed and the great thing about it is that it is only 6 miles from home. that is such a plus in these times. I will be working 3 days a week so I still have plenty of time for scrappin. the best of both worlds.
I just finished up all of my October swaps so now on to November, I have tons of stuff to do. I need to get out the Stampin Up catty and start ordering. Darn the luck. I love my SU catalog. So much to see. My list keeps getting longer and longer.
Well I had better get busy. Happy Scrappin!!

1st Card of Fall

2009-08-24T19:33:00.005-05:00

I am supposed to be getting my craft stuff ready to pack up to take with me when I go out of town Saturday. But,,, what do I do, I spend valuable time surfing the internet. The inspiration for this card came from on of my favorite spots the creative corner of Starlightstampers.com. Thank you so much. i just love your work. I love finding new ideas and techniques to put into my cards. I try to put that WOW factor in all of my cards. Problem with that is I get attached to them and don't want to give them up. I am going to donate this one to a good cause. We are collecting cards to send overseas to our troops. They are in need of all kinds of greeting cards to send to their families back home. We all have that box of cards that are just sitting there, This is a great way to help them find loving homes. If you don't know anyone in your area that has a military collection going let me know and I will find you one. Have a great day. and Happy Scrappin.

My Haunted House

2009-08-22T22:11:00.002-05:00

I just can't say enough about this stamp set except I'm having a blast with it. I embossed the house with clear and then sponged white craft ink over the top of it and rubbed it until the image came through. I used sun yellow on the moon and then I highlighted it with Rich Razzleberry.

I've been really busy this month with all of my swaps, and clubs. I'm going out of town for a few weeks to stay with my parents, (mom has to have some surgery, and I'm going just for support). I will have my lap top so it will be business as usual. But I just don't know how much of my stampin stuff I can take with me. So my goal for this week is to work out a game plan on what projects I want to do. I need to design cards for card club, and do all of my September swaps... I need a bigger case (LOL) Oh the heck with it I'm just gonna take it all.

Halloween - That time of year

2009-08-14T12:11:00.003-05:00

Wow , Can you believe it summer is almost over and Halloween is just around the corner.

I'm really having a lot of fun with our Stamp sets, This is one of my favorite holidays and my birthday is also in October. I just love this time of year. I can not take credit for this card, I totally scrap lifted it from my mentor and SU Upline Mandy. The stamp set is 'From the Crypt' and the paper pack is 'Cast-a-Spell'. I just changed a few of the details to accommodate my supplies. You would have to see this in real life to really appreciate the intricate detail of the spider webs and flourishes. Isn't this stamp wicked? I just love it. I'm sitting here patiently waiting for the UPS dude, he has another stamps set I'm dying to use. And thinking about it I have come up with all kinds of Ideas.

It's card club time again and this month we are making birthday cards for boys. Here is a sneak peek of 2 of them we are going to make, The 3rd one is a surprise so I will show it to you later. I used our new stamp set 'Animal Stories' and the paper is from the 'Tall Tales' pack. I also scrap lifted the card with the Elephant. (Thank you Mandy, you keep me going).

I have lots of swaps to complete so I had better run. Happy Scrappin.

Sunday Afternoon

2009-08-01T09:46:00.004-05:00

Well here I am again. It's the end of another uneventful weekend. I did some scrapping, read a book and basically just veg'd out.

I did this lay out at scrapbook club on Thursday night. We did 6 pages all about Boys. This is the only one I have put pictures in. I definately need more pictures.

Last week I decided to change the name of my Yahoo group. We are no longer a local group and needed a name that would appeal to anyone looking for a group that loves scrapbooking and doing swaps. I left it up to the members to come up with names and then we voted on it. Congratulations Amber on the winning name, we are now known as Croppin_Swappin_Spot@yahoogroups.com . If your in the neighborhood look us up we would love to have you join us.

Hope everyone had a nice weekend, see ya soon. Happy Scrappin.

cuddly little critters

2009-07-29T19:42:00.002-05:00

I just love these little characters, I "copied" them from some big ones we used on layouts. they are made from stampin up punches. I have been trying all day to get this photo to upload. I hate having dial up internet service. We live in a rural area so DSL is not available.

Can you believe this summer is almost gone. The kids in our area go back to school in 2 weeks. Before you know it the holidays will be here. I've already been scouring my New Stampin Up catalog for new Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas stamp sets. The new mini catalogs is out on September 1st, and it is chucked full of neat stuff. You have got to see what they have come up with, they partnered with Build a bear and have a whole line of products for the holidays. My mystery hostess club starts this month and I'm looking forward to being busy with that and creating projects for my card club. If you would like a Holiday Mini catalog just let me know and I will get one to you.

Gotta go. Happy Scrappin.

I'm a Diva!!

2009-07-16T07:43:00.002-05:00

I was just invited to my first Stampin Up! Diva night. I was awesome. In order to be invited you have to meet 1 of 3 qualifications in a quarter, they are sales, recruitment, or promotions. Any way, we were treated to a fabulous dinner prepared and served by Rochelle's (our leader) husband. After dinner we did a make and take of this cool milk carton project for Halloween, No, it's not to early to think about Halloween, this holder, holds four milk carton treat boxes, I just love it and can't wait to share it with my club members and customers. This project is all perfect for Christmas and Valentines day treats. I think I'm going to have alot of fun with this one.

Summer has finally reared it's ugly head here in St. Louis. It's now Hot and sticky!! I'm so looking forward to fall. My favorite time of the year. I've started looking at fall projects for my card club and I'm really excited about the new stamps sets available from Stampin Up!. I have also put together my first Mystery hostess club. It was limited to 6 members and you get to be hostess 2 times in a year, This group starts in August and runs through July. I'm hoping to start a second group. I have just started working on it. I'm really excited about this and was surprised how fast and easy it filled.

I'm always interested in fun and interesting ideas to promote my SU business, so If you have any success stories please share them with me.

I have a ribbon share going also if anyone is interested. it is 3 yards each of the 6 new INcolor dotted swiss ribbon for 15.00 and for 25.00 you can also get 3 sheets each of the matching 8.5x11 card stock. If you are interested give me a buzz my email address is: rhondalb55@aol.com .

Well better get busy need to create projects for card club next week. Happy Scrappin!!

This and That

2009-07-01T10:22:00.003-05:00

I created this card for the monthly card club that I have. It is in honor of our Hero's who serve our country with pride. I thank you for protecting me and my family.

In the last few weeks I have experienced the nasty side of scrap booking sites and the pettiness of some people. It's sad, to think that some people are so callous and unforgiving. I will not let these acts influence me in the way I run my life. I feel that this craft is an important part of our lives to be cherished and treated with respect and dignity. We all began scrapbooking for our own personal reasons, and I love the diversity it brings. I just have no tolerance for anyone who, disrespects the craft. I am the owner of a scrapbooking site and I hope that the members feel that I am fair and honest. They are a wonderful group of ladies who deserve, not only from me but from everyone, the respect, we would give our own familes. I take my comittments to swaps and challenges seriously, and feel that they do too. If you feel that the group you belong to or use to belong to did not give you the respects you deserve please feel free to check us out. http://STL_Scrappers@yahoogroups.com We would love to have you.

OK, I'm done. I'm off my soap box now. I want to wish everyone a happy and safe Independance holiday. And when celebrating please take a momet to remember the fallen soldiers who served to protect us.

Good Morning Monday!

2009-06-29T08:32:00.002-05:00

The are finally getting a break from that nasty heat wave we were having and it's so nice out side. I got my out side faucet fixed yeaterday and the plants got a well deserved and needed cold shower, instead of just a drink. They all look so pretty this morning and some are finally blooming.

This inchie swap was on a yahoo group I belong to

and each person was assigned a letter to do and we sent 13 letters in and we got the entire verse back. This is my completed project. It says, "Live , Laugh, Love. The picture is a little hard to see because of the glare of the flash. It was all one in Silver, Black and gray. The old frame was green and I spay painted it a flat back. I just joined another one but haven't been assigned my letter yet. I'm looking forward to it. More Christmas gifts. YEA!!

My yahoo group www.STL_scrappers@yahoogroups.com is doing quite well. We are getting to know each other and we now have enough members and we are starting to do some serious swapping. Our first swap, which I hosted, was thinking of you cards. They were awesome. They have been swapped out and went postal last week. I have a butterfly twinchie swap(2x2) ending on the 30th and I'm real excited by the results. they will go back in the mail this week. We have all kinds of swaps going on right now, christmas cards, event toppers, glitter cards, 3x3 cards, 12x12 layouts. If you are wanting to joins We'd love to have you. Please come on by and check us out.

Well see you soon, Happy Scrappin

Anniversary Card

2009-06-21T07:30:00.002-05:00

Good Morning. I just wanted to touch base with all my scrappin friends and family and show you the card I made. You know how you've got that big party to attend and at the last minute you tell yourself don't forget the card. Well I forgot the card, almost. Thank goods for a well supplied craft room. I made this card yesterday for the party last night. By the way, Congratulations Teresa and Mark for 25 yrs together. We had a great time it was good to see family on a happy occassion.

I used my favorite paper from Stampin Up! It's from the Parisian Breeze Speciality DSP. (To be retired July 1st) This was the last of it, I'm gonna miss it. The stamp set is Echos of Kindness. This is a Level 2 hostess gift and it is also retiring July 1st. I just got my new catalog on Friday afternoon and already I have a 2 page list of "I gotta have or I'll just die".

Well, better go now, off to look for that job so I can fill that list. Happy Scrappin.

New Stampin Up Colors

2009-06-16T13:22:00.003-05:00

I love this card. And it was not difficult at all. It's kind of hard to tell but the paper is the new Razzleberry Lemonade, Card stock is the new Dusty Durango and Crushed Curry. The ink is Dusty Durango. These are just a couple of the new items Stampin Up is coming out with on July 1st. If you have never tried Stampin Up products now is the time. They are coming out with 6 new colors and lots of new paper packs and the new stamps are awesome. I'm really looking forward to incorporating these new colors into ideas for my card club. If you live in the Metro St. Louis area and would like to join us on the 3rd Saturday of each month just give me a buzz and I'll get you in.

Things are going along at a snails pace around here, It's kinda hard to do much with all the rain and thunderstorms we have been having. I think this is the wettest June I have ever seen in Missouri.

My friend Amber is getting Married on 7/8/09 and I have been helping her. She has a very limited budget so we are getting very creative. We are stamping invitations and announcements on Sunday. I want this to be such a happy time for her and Carl. They have waited a long time for this. She is having it in a park so I have ordered good weather. I think all of the necessaries have been thought of now we are putting the plan into action. We need small inexpensive ideas for table decorations so if you have any please send them to me.

Well gotta run. Happy Scrappin.

Mini Book Cover

2009-06-05T08:42:00.002-05:00

I just love this Owl. He is made simply from Stampin Up using the big shot dies 'Top Note' and Scalloped circle, SU 5 petal punch and 2 different circle punches. We do such great projects. Tonight we are getting together and creating again. I can't wait to see what Mandy has come up with.

I'm still working on developing my own Stampiu Up business and I think things are progressing nicely. I'm trying to put in an order twice a month, I have managed to meet my consistancy counts goal for the last 2 months, one more to go and I get a free stamp set, anyone I want. I'm excited about that, you can never have enough stamp sets. The new catalog comes out in July. I have seen a preview of a few samples and OMG, the new 'In Colors' are awesome. I never thought in a million years I would get excited over ink, but I am EXCITED. I guess that is what finding your true passion will do for you. I love all of the Stampin Up products and would love to introduce them to you. If you would like a catalog just email me at rhondalb55@aol.com .

I have a couple of swaps I need to get done so see ya, Happy Scrappin.

TGIF

2009-05-15T08:34:00.003-05:00

You ever wondered what to do with all those "Inchies" and "Twinchies"? This is just a few of the ones I have collected in the last few months. I attached them so it would be easy to pop them off when I need to use them. Then I can replace them with other ones. Right now I have it hanging just inside the door of my craft room/office. Aren't these great. They make the best additions to any project I'm working on and I'm a firm believer that you can't have enough.
Well it's Friday again. Where do the days go? I have card club tomorrow and I'm still one card short. I have an idea or two just need to put it into action. I had better get busy. Thanks for stopping by. Happy Scrappin

Just had to share

2009-05-12T13:26:00.006-05:00

My grandson was here yesterday and we were glitter gluing and stamping. Today I was cleaning up my mess when I found his glitter page. I just can't throw it away and I have enough stuff in here so what to do? I saw my 5 petal punch from Stampin Up. I love my punches. And this is what I came up with. Now everytime I use a flower I will remember that day. I just had to shre this with all my scrappin buddies. What do You think?

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T09:05:00.002-05:00

Happy Mother's Day (ok it's a day late). I had dinner with my kids on Friday and spent a quiet weekend at home. We finally had a little sun and dry weather so we were able to get in some much needed yard work. I finally got my birdbath my DH bought me 4 yrs ago in the spot I wanted it in and I planted some daylillies around it.

I created this card for my Bella Card swap. I received these images in another swap I participated in. I really like these Kissyface kids. The solid card stock is from Stampin Up! it's Baja Breeze. The patterned paper I got from The NSD special on Memory Works.

My yahoo group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/STL_scrappers has issued their first 2 swaps. The card swap filled right away and we are well on our way to filling the butterfly swap. If you have considered joining another group please check us out. We started out to be a local group but soon realized that we needed to expand to meet our swapping needs. We would love for you to join us. Well my scrappin family I need to get busy and create so to you I say happy scrappin. See ya soon.

National Scrapbooking day

2009-05-03T18:54:00.004-05:00

Missed Me?

2009-04-30T08:23:00.004-05:00

Again it's been awhile since I have posted. Sorry about that. I've been trying to keep busy, since the job market is so bad and I still haven't found a job. I belong to several scrapbooking groups, and I participate in some of their swaps so that helps. I have just finished all but one swap for May and they have been put in the mail. I did the gift bag yesterday. The paper I used was Baja Breeze card stock and Parisian Breeze Speciality paper pack, these are all from Stampin Up!. I used by cricut cartridge 'Potpourri Basket' to cut the butterflies and my eyelet border punch from Stampin UP!. I think these turned out really nice. What do you think?

Speaking of Stampin Up!. I think I have found my niche, these products really inspire my passion for scrap booking. I have just joined the thousand of other passionate demonstrators and I hope to become successful. Thank you Mandy for all your inspiration. I just held my very first workshop, (thanks, Amber for all your hard work). There were 13 ladies and 8 kids. the adults made 3 cards and the kids made their very own mother's day card. Whew, was I nervous!!! This group of great ladies actually got to see me stand up and sweat. But everything turn out great and we are going to have a card club beginning in May. The 3rd Saturday of the month Amber is going to allow me to come into her home and help her and her friends create beautiful cards.

Well ladies, I've enjoyed my time with you this morning, but I really need to go clean up my mess in the Craft room, that room is worse than having kids, I have to clean it all the time, Who messes it up?

You're a HOOT

2009-04-10T18:58:00.002-05:00

Love my Stampin Up buddies. We get together and create the coolest stuff, Thanks to our Mentor and dear friend Mandy. This is the 2 page layout we did last night. Aren't these the most adorable little characters? I did 3 workshops this week and I just can't seem to get enough of it.

I have my first party/workshop in a couple of weeks and have been thinking hard about what we are going to do. We have decided that we are going to have a mother child theme. Moms are going to make 3 cards and kids are going to make their very own Mothers Day card. I'm really excited and hope we have a good turn out. I need a Big Shot, I want a Big Shot, If any one out there knows of anyone who doesn't use theirs and is willing to part with it for a reasonable price, let me know, I just can't afford a new one right now.

I have been working on my swaps and for the most part I'm totally caught up until the first of May. I don need to work on a few that are due the first week of May. I will get to them tonight and tomorrow.

Wow! Sunday is Easter already! Where does the time go. Every year I say I just need one more week. And the same this year, If I just had one more week I'd be more prepared (right!). It has been cold and rainy for the last couple of days and it just doesn't feel like Easter is Sunday. Hopfully the weather will clear by then.

Well kind friends I'm off to create. Love chatting with you, please come back again, Happy Scrappin.

Some Serious Blog Candy

2009-04-06T15:07:00.002-05:00

Jaci has some serious birthday blog candy. Check it out at http://scrapjaci.blogspot.com/ and everybody don't forget to tell her Happy Birthday. She is even admitting her age. You go Girl!

It's Offical !!Spring is here!

2009-03-27T22:40:00.003-05:00

The dandelions are in full bloom. I made these tags for a swap and they make me smile because it's been a long tough winter and I'm ready for spring.
I offically became a Stampin up demonstrator and I just recieved my kit yesterday and I'm in Stampin heaven. I'm still wading through all the information, and as soon as I sort it out I'm hoping to get a web site. In the mean time if you need anything I'd love to help. My goal is to put together a card work shop in the next few weeks. I'm really excited about this and I hope I can make a go of it. I know it will take alot of hard work. But I think it can be rewarding. Happy Stampin!

Jenn's Got Blog Candy

2009-03-20T08:17:00.002-05:00

Check out Jenn's Blog at http://iscrapmemories.blogspot.com I hear she has an awesome stash and it willing to part with some of it. I want blog candy. Check it out, Sha also has areally cute boyfriend and some of the cutest dogs I have ever seen.

Missed you

2009-03-19T11:55:00.002-05:00

It has been awhile since I have posted a blog. I'm having serious issues with my laptop and have resorted back to my desktop. Both are so slow. The area we live in doesn't have DSL so right now I have to rely on Dial up (ugh).Other than that I have been keeping myself busy. I'm still looking for o job and I worked a one day temp job this week. It was at a company I temped at before and I was having so much fun seeing old faces. Even though I didn't have much to do I enjoyed being out among people. I hope they have me return again sometime. My good friend Melissa and I are trying to get a new group started in our area(http://stl_scrappers@yahoogroups.com) and one of the first challenges was to do a one page layout about yourself. This is what I posted. Do you know how hard it is to find 4 pictures that you just don't absolutly hate! I would love it if you would drop by and consider joining us, even if you don't live locally, We hope to have some fun cjhallenges and swaps.

I have taken the plunge and decided to become a Stampin up Demonstrator. I sent my paperwork in Tuesday and i'm excited about getting started. I thank Mandy for all of her help and I have learned so much from her. I really enjoy her classes and the card club. Mandy won a trip for her and her family to Hawaii for a stampin up convention, they leave tomorrow. Have a good trip Mandy and bring back some great new ideas.

Sring has finally decided to peek it's head out and the trees are strting to put and I noticed my tiger lillies are coming up. Spring and fall are my favorite times of year. I love have the windows open and the clean breeze coming in and listening to the sounds of the birds.

Well thanks for listening to me ramble and happy scrappin.

With my own hands

2009-03-07T22:45:00.001-06:00

I'm posting this again to see if I can get anymore takers. I only have one. Come on ladies, come have som fun with me

The first five people to leave a comment on this post will receive something hand made by me, however there are some limitations
1. I make no guarantee that you will like what I make.
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It will be done this year (might take a while but I promise in 2009)
4. You have not clue what it is going to be, a photo, something I have craftily put together, or sewn. I may bake something and mail it you...the possibilities are endless
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange. It may blow your mind!

Here is the catch, if you choose to do this. You must post this on your blog and be ready to make something for five people too. This will be fun! When you receive the fabulous item I make you, you must post a picture of it on your blog and rave about it for all to see.

Ready, Set GO!

Awesome Blog Candy!!!

2009-03-07T19:03:00.003-06:00

For those of you who love Bellas you have got to check out this awesome blog candy. For thoes of you who do not know what blog candy is you got to check this out and leave Lori a comment. her blog address is http://scrapinglori.blogspot.com/ any scrapper would love to have these goodies. I'm making room just in case I win. Great job Lori on 20,000 hits to her blog. Ladies she does such phenomenal work. I hope you stay in touch. gonna go sign up. See you later.

An Inanimate Object

2009-03-05T08:39:00.003-06:00

I belong to a yahoo group http://memoryscrappers.yahoogroups.com/ and of of the things they have is a use it up challenge every month. this is where you create project with just the materials you have on hand. The first challenge this month was to create a lay out of an inanimate object. I walked around my house for days and rack my brain until it hurt. Finally I came up with this lay out. It was a once in a lifetime trip that we took. We spent a month cruising the rivers of Europe from Austria, Germany and The Netherlands.

It's been pretty busy around here working on new challenges,going to classes with Stampin Up Demonstrator Mandy, catching up on swaps and I've just become a moderator of a group and my good friend Melissa and I are starting a local group for scrappers. http://stl_scrappers.yahoogroups.com/

If you know anyone in the Metro St. Louis area have them take a look and join us. Well my house has been sadly neglected so I had better get busy. Happy Scrappin.

New Card

2009-02-28T07:52:00.002-06:00

I made this card for a swap I'm in and it was completely done with my cricut. I'm really learning alot about this machine and what it can do. It's just amazing.

Well, it's Saturday (woo hoo) and I'm waiting for the snow to begin. So I'm just going to settle in and create some cards and stuff in my messy craft room. Have a wonderful weekend and thanks for stopping in.

Sassy Flamingo

2009-02-25T08:07:00.006-06:00

Good morning. I'm watching my grandson today cause he's not feeling well. I think he's getting a cold. He is awful quiet for a 4 yr old. I had another job interview yesterday. I don't want to jinx it but I really would like this job. It's for the registrar of a school of Cosmetology. So keep your fingers crossed for me.
I made this card the other day just on a whim. I love these flamingos they have such attitude. Her sentiment says 'those shoes make you look so skinny' I am all caught up on my swaps through April and I need to find something to do. I thought about finding another group to swap with but I don't want to get to many going and get confused. I belong to a couple of groups so maybe I will just search them for swaps. I really love doing swaps. I did start a family album. I really need to organize my work area to better fit my needs or I can just take care of Donovan today. Donovan wins, so see ya later and happy Scrappin.

Cards, Cards, and more Cards.

2009-02-20T22:37:00.004-06:00

Last night I got together with my new scrappin buddies for a class hosted by Mandi, our favorite Stampin Up demonstrator. She is such an inspirations. Aren't these just the cutest cards. We actually made 6 cards, 2 of each design and this wonderful holder to keep them in. Like they are going to last very long. The colors are so bright and the paper quality is awesome. Thank you again Mandi for taking the time to share your talents with so many. Well the weekend is finally here and I'm going to spend it scrapping. Want to come play? You are always welcome.

My first Bella Post

2009-02-18T23:52:00.003-06:00

I had made several cards with Javabellas since I got the stamp from a fellow swapper, but this is the first picture. I just love these Bellas and can't wait to get more. I love these colors so Springy, just what I need to push away the winter blahs. I know it's just February but I'm so ready for Spring. I actually made this card for a friend of mine she belongs to a group of ladies who do secret pals all year long. I thought this would be a nice touch for her next secret gift. It's been a long week and we are just half way through it, but I have managed to get quite a few swaps done. I'm up to the middle of March. I'm going to a card class Thursday night, We are going to make note cards and a holder I can't wait to show you. I will post that later in the week. Well I'm asleep on my feet. See you later. Happy Scrappin.

With my own hands

2009-02-17T12:18:00.000-06:00

The first five people to leave a comment on this post will receive something hand made by me, however there are some limitations
1. I make no guarantee that you will like what I make.
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It will be done this year (might take a while but I promise in 2009)
4. You have not clue what it is going to be, a photo, something I have craftily put together, or sewn. I may bake something and mail it you...the possibilities are endless
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange. It may blow your mind!

Here is the catch, if you choose to do this. You must post this on your blog and be ready to make something for five people too. This will be fun! When you receive the fabulous item I make you, you must post a picture of it on your blog and rave about it for all to see.

Ready, Set GO!

Valentine Day

2009-02-14T22:34:00.002-06:00

Happy valentine's day to all. I'm kinda glad this day is finally behind us. I'm beginning to get a little tired of hearts and I'm ready to move on. I have decided to do a family album. This is page 1. I did this layout this morning and the picture isn't that great but I think it turned pretty good. This is my Son Joshua and my brother Dennis. Joshua was born with Spinal meningitis and is handicapped. Josh lives in a group home about 70 miles from us. He is one half of my twins. As you can tell Joshua favorite things are Uncle Dennis and his cell phone. My son is know for remembering phone numbers and he loves to talk on the phone. I call him when I need a number. Thanks for stopping in, but it's time for bed see you later.

Look What I did!!!

2009-02-13T22:47:00.003-06:00

I just came home from my first scrap booking class and look what I did! Aren't these just the cutest? I had so much fun, Our hostess was SU demonstrator Mandi and six of the nicest women I have ever met. I look forward to getting together with them again next month. Both of these pages were made with stampin up materials. I think I have found my new best friend. I want to thank all of you for making me feel so at home. Have a wonderful week end and Happy Scrappin.

Creative Thinking

2009-02-12T08:07:00.002-06:00

Good Morning. I'm working on my creative proccess this morning, I think I need more coffee. I've got a few project I need to start thinking about and I'm really having a difficult time concentrating. I just need to get up and do it.

I created this card for a dear friend of mine, Sue. I don't get to see her as much as I would like and I miss her. When I saw this stamp from TAC I knew exactly the person it was meant for. Sue is so creative and strong willed, kinda like these ladies, (it's all about attitude). I worked for Sue my first Job I had and I learned so much from her. We created such a strong bond that will never be broken, we are truly friends for life. I hope she enjoys this card as much as I enjoyed making it for her.

I'm going to a stamping class Friday night and I won't know a sole there, It's exciting to be able to meet new people who share the same passions. I sometimes have a hard time meeting new people and I'm hesitant about going someplace new alone, but i'm so stoked about going. I can't wait to post what I learn. Well gotta go scrap now. Wish you were here.

Late night Rambling

2009-02-10T23:44:00.005-06:00

Just wanted to quickly touch base this evening. We are experience a storm so I have no Idea how long the lights are gonna stay on. I just wanted to tell you about a blog that I visit regularly. http://www.javablustamper.blogspot.com/This Lady is awsome and I love her work. Please stop by and tell her hello. If you visit soon she has some really neat blog candy you can win. Well I'm going to bed while the electricity is still on. I hate looking for the bedroom in the dark. Happy Scrappin

Just another day...

2009-02-10T07:33:00.003-06:00

Well I got and email on Friday and I didn't get the job I had interviewed for. I have mixed feelings about it. But no since crying over spilt milk. I will just keep looking, there has to be a position out there for an aging administrative assistant with 25 yrs experience.

I had never tried swaps until November and I decided I was going to do this altered Altoid Tin swap. Looked easy,,,,,not so much. I worked on these for weeks. This is my finished product. I think they turned out kinda cute. I can't wait to see what everyone else did. I have found the cutest stamp on www.stampavie.com reminds me of a Bella. I can't wait to get it. I got my first Bellas last week and have made a couple of cards for my sisters and you know I think I forgot to take pictures of them. I now have Javabella, Lattebella and Merrybella. I can't wait to get more, (see this is why I need a job). I picked up a magazine the other day while I was in Walmaart its called 'Paper Crafts' Does anyone have a favorite magazine, if so I would really appreciate letting me know what it is. Well time to hunt for that new job.... Happy scrapping!

Surfing

2009-02-08T12:24:00.005-06:00

I seem to spend most of my days attached to my lap top. I'm either looking for employment or searching for inspiration. Not many jobs out there but there is tons of ideas. I really like making cards and different kinds of altered projects. I still have not tackled an actual album layout. I have signed up for a 12x12 LO on 'Dora the Explorer' but I haven't sat down and thought about it, I still have some time before it is due. I have joined ScrappinSwappers@yahoogroups.com . These ladies are awsome. I am so fortunate they have allowed me to become part of their lives. I am addicted to their swaps and am actually hosting one.

I have picked another card from the Changito stamps, This one was made for my Grandson Donovan. Donovan is way beyond his 4 years and he amazes me every day.

All my grandkids are so special: Hayley, the oldest and our Cheerleader she is so beautiful and talented: Maya, the youngest and she has the most character, the greatest personality and make me laugh: Donovan is the middle grandchild and is so wise, He amazes me constantly with his ability to absorb and learn. I guess I have to give credit where credit is due, They are all like their grandmother.

Until we talk again **** Happy Scrapping***

It's Friday

2009-02-06T09:59:00.006-06:00

Good morning, It's Friday. Yesterday's interview went real well. I'm disapointed about the pay and no benefits. I will keep looking and see what happens. I'm going to my first crop tonight. It a fund raiser for my friends son's school. My friend is Melissa, she is the one who I can blame for my new obsession. Scrapbooking has become a very important part of my daily routine. I'm still not sure what I'm going to work on, I do have a few small projects I need to finish up. Today's card is one I made for my Oldest Granddaughter Hayley. She's 8 and loves monkeys. I found this stamp on the Stampendous website and was going to purchase it and I was at the grand opening of a new Hobby Lobby and they had it 50% off so I bought two. I'll show you the other one later. His name is Changito. I want ot get some more stamps in this series He is really cute. Well gotta run, Have a good scrappin weekend.

Job Interview

2009-02-05T09:05:00.000-06:00

Today is going to be a busy day, I have a second interview with a company I applied with last month. I have been looking for a job for some time now and I'm very anxious about this one. Please wish me luck. Because of the economy and where we live I try to combine and much as I can into any trip leaving the house, so besides the interview I have to go to the post office to mail my Altered Altoid tins I did for a swap. I will post that picture next week, I think they turned out really cute. I guess, since I'm going to be so close, I will have to stop at our new Hobby Lobby to see whats on sale. Todays card is one I made for my youngest granddaughter, Maya. I received the lady bug "Twinchie" from a swap I just participated in. (Thank you Laura). This is just perfect for my little bug. Maya and I share a birthday and I'm afraid she is an awful lot like her grandmother in her younger days. (poor Parents). Well enough for now need to get moving. Thanks for dropping in.

Introduction to Blogging

2009-02-04T11:00:00.000-06:00

Well here goes. I have never done this so bear with me. As you can tell I have a lot of time on my hands right now. So why not learn new things. I'm new to scrapbooking and I think I have found my true love. This is one of my first cards I have done. Isn't she just the cutest girl. I got this stamp from the Angel Company and she come with 3 girlfriends (Tickledpink) The paper is also from TAC it'called Girly Girl. I'm really loving this paper . As soon as I figure this out I will be back. In the mean time, Happy Scrappin !