Mark Your Calendar for the February Blog Hop

Are you ready for another Pals Blog Hop? Well, you don't have long to wait! The Pals, a group of talented Stampin' Up! Demonstrators, are ready to show off their paper crafting skills with inspirational ideas showcasing Sale-A-Bration products from Stampin' Up!'s most popular promotion of the year! So be sure to join us on Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 5:00 AM CST for another Pals Hop as we show you all that Stampin' Up! has to offer - from rubber stamps to designer paper to embellishments, and much more! Mark your calendar now! You don't want to miss out!

Here is a sneak peek of the Pals line-up!

1. Kalshelia Lloyd -- Stampin' Fabulousity
2. Ann Schach -- The Stampin' Schach
3. Margaret Moody -- Margaret Moody
4. Debbie Pierce -- Stampin' Sunshine
5. Carla Bazhenow -- Carla's Scraps
6. Mary Fish -- Stampin' Pretty
7. Kim Lampone -- Stamp, scrap, get kreative
8. Gina Shaw -- Cards by Gina
9. Regina Mangum -- The Stampin' Bean
10. Lourdes Torres -- Cozy Crafty Corner
11. Kris Kilcoyne -- Kween Bee Kreations
12. Liz Hughes -- DIY Paper Creations
13. Melanie Collins -- Oops a Daisy
14. Mike Funke -- Stampin-Style
15. Anne Beale Yancey -- Mukibug
16. Martha Stewart --Seasons of Stamping
17. Jason Casper -- Stampin' Dad
18. Barbara Furlong --- The Love of Stamping
19. Tricia Gillam -- Soul Stamper


A Special Note
I would like to thank everyone for keeping my family in their thoughts and prayers as we adjust to life without our beloved Missy. I have found it particularly hard, as she was my constant companion. Wherever I went, with the exception of work, she was by my side. I find myself reaching down for her, only to find she is not there. I have found solace in the advice that many have given. I keep in my heart my most precious memories of her, and I truly hope that she is with me in spirit for the rest of my days on earth. I am at peace that she will be there to greet me beyond the Rainbow Bridge. But it is still so lonely without her. Blessings to you all...

In Memory of Missy the Boxer

It is with a heavy heart that I am writing today's post. Missy the Boxer passed away today. We knew that this would happen, but one always thinks later than sooner. I knew something was wrong when I walked in the door after work, and there was no wiggling Boxer butt to greet me. I called her name, but still no Missy. I found her in a weakened condition lying next to her favorite chair. Although she could not get up, she still wagged her tail in greeting. I frantically called my husband, and then I sobbingly called our vet. As I waited for my husband, I curled up by her side for one final time. I told her she was a pretty girl, and a smart girl, and a good girl. She understood. I told her that we had lived a wonderful life together, and that she had fought a hard fight. And I told her that it was OK to go. I think she understood.

My husband carried her to the car, and we took the short ride the vet's. Dr. Rita listened to Missy's heart, and stated that she thought that Missy had suffered a major heart attack. Her breathing was labored, and she was in distress. Dr. Rita said that it was time to let her go.

It's hard saying good-bye. Even though I knew she was suffering, it was so hard. Kim (my husband) and I scratched and petted her in her favorite places. We hugged her, and told her that we would never, ever forget her. That we would always remember her. That we loved her. She passed away with both of us holding her. And at the moment she passed, the lights flickered in the vet's office. I like to think that this was Missy's way of telling me that she was in a better place, that she was OK and that it was OK to let her go.

Things just aren't the same this evening at the Schach house. There is no Missy laying at my feet as I write this post. Her chewies lay untouched, and her toys are still where she left them. There is no Missy talking to me with those inimitable Boxer growls, cajoling me to give her a treat. Her food and water bowls sit untouched. She has left a void that will forever be difficult to fill. Yet, I would never trade one minute of these past eleven years that she spent as a member of our family.

LAST NIGHT

I stood by your bed last night; I came to have a peep.
I could see that you were crying, you found it hard to sleep.
I whined to you softly as you brushed away a tear,
"It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here."
I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour the tea,
You were thinking of the many times, your hands reached down to me.
I was with you at the shops today; your arms were getting sore.
I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more.
I was with you at my grave today; you tend it with such care.
I want to re-assure you, that I'm not lying there.
I walked with you towards the house, as you fumbled for your key.
I gently put my paw on you; I smiled and said, "It's me."
You looked so very tired, and sank into a chair.
I tried so hard to let you know, that I was standing there.
It's possible for me, to be so near you everyday.
To say to you with certainty, "I never went away."
You sat there very quietly, then smiled, I think you knew...
in the stillness of that evening, I was very close to you.
The day is over... I smile and watch you yawning
and say "Good-night, God bless, I'll see you in the morning."
And when the time is right for you to cross the brief divide,
I'll rush across to greet you and we'll stand, side by side.
I have so many things to show you, there is so much for you to see.
Be patient, live your journey out...then come home to me.
- Author Unknown

Farewell, Missy Schach...

Black Mambo in the Pink

It's color challenge day at Pals Paper Arts! Don't you love the delicious look of Melon Mambo, Pretty in Pink and Basic Black? Featuring products from the Occasions Mini catalog, this card almost makes itself! Like sands through the hour glass, so are the Days of Our Stampin' Lives! And you will not waste a minute of your precious time with today's time saving design tips!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• If you want to give your Texturz Plates a well-deserved vacay, reach for textured card stock. The linen-look of Melon Mambo textured card stock adds richness,
  while the Groom Specialty Paper adds a triple threat...shine, pattern and texture! Yowza, baby!
• No Tombow for this Mambo! Sending Love Specialty Designer Series Paper arrives with glittery designs on one side. There is no fuss, no muss, and no need to add more glitz to these dazzling hearts. "Pop" them on top of the Pretty in Pink Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits with Stampin' Dimensionals, and you are good to go!
• Double your pleasure, double your fun with a Pretty in Pink band punched on both sides with the new Pinking Hearts Border Punch. Add a layer of the same glitzy Sending Love DSP for a totally coordinated look!
• Glitz and Glam! A snippet of Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon adds more interest and texture, while a Circle Fire Brad accents the "love" sentiment from the Things I Love set.

I hope that you enjoyed this quick and easy Valentine card. I will be so anxious to see what you create for today's challenge. And remember, comments are my "chocolate"...I can never get enough! So please, let me know what you think of today's card. And if you have any questions about how this card was created, or the techniques that I use, never hesitate to email me! Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Set: Things I Love (115229); Ink: Melon Mambo (115656), Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker (100082); Designer Series Paper: Sending Love (117153---Occasions Mini), Groom (116478); Card Stock: Melon Mambo (115538---In-Color assorted), Pretty in Pink (108695---Soft Subtles assorted), Whisper White (100730); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits (117332), Small Oval Punch (107304), Pinking Hearts Border Punch (117649), Full Heart Punch (113693), Sponge Dauber (102892), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430); Glitz and Glam: Circle Fire Brad (109110), Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109027)

Simply Schach Bird Hugs and PPA Preview

Today's card features a variety of products available from the Occasions Mini catalog, and is tailored for those of us whose stamping time is at a premium. Complete in less than thirty minutes, it still possesses enough glitz and glam to raise it above the "same-o, same-o" generic cards! Let's take a closer look at the time saving steps involved with "Bird Hugs". What else would you call a card that uses the Extra Large Two-Step Bird Punch and Sending Love Hugs?

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• When time is of the essence, don't reinvent the wheel! This idea for using the Extra Large Two-Step Bird Punch and the Hugs notes comes directly from the Occasions Mini catty! Of course, our own personalities shine through in the papers that we use and the colors that we select!


• Save even more time by using Hugs! No cutting needed. And who can resist that delightful little scalloped edge!


• No time to glitter? Don't worry...be happy! Sending Love Designer Series Paper is "pre-glittered", making it the perfect choice for a quick and easy card.


• Zip-pa-dee-do-da! Add texture in seconds with the new Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder.


• When close is good enough, leave that Stamp-a-ma-jig in its resting place, and reach for Stampin' Up!s new clear mount stamps...another time saver! With Stampin' Write Markers, I quickly inked up "Love You Much" from the Well Scripted stamp set, and stamped it where I wanted it. Now I am not advocating throwing out your Stamp-a-ma-jig, but when image placement does not have to be picture perfect, try this.


• Sweet! Don't you love the Scallop Trim Border Punch? It adds the right touch of Victoriana to this little Valentine! And it can be yours free from the Sale-a-bration brochure when you order $50 in product from me!

Of course, what would Thursday be without the Pals Paper Arts Challenge? Here is a little peek at this week's inspiration card:

Challenges are super for helping us improve our stamping and card designing skills. Won't you join us Thursday for this week's challenge?

Happy Anniversary, to Me!

February 1st marked my one year anniversary as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator. Won't you join me this weekend and help me celebrate by partaking in a little blog candy? I promise it will be yummy...and calorie free! And if you would really like to help me celebrate, what could be better than joining my group, The Schach Pack, and becoming a fellow demonstrator? Sale-a-bration is the perfect time to join, especially with the Starter Kit special. For more details, Click Here. Whether you want to be a hobby demo, or aspire to have a career, you are welcome in The Pack! I would love to be your mentor.

Remember, your comments and questions are important to me. Please let me know what you think about today's card. And remember, if you ever have a question about the cards that I make or the techniques that I use, please feel free to email me! Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Set: Well Scripted (117072 W, 118601 C---Occasions Mini); Inks: Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker (100071), Real Red Stampin' Write Marker (100052); Designer Series Paper: Sending Love Specialty(117153---Occasions Mini), Sending Love Notes "Hugs" (118779---Occasions Mini); Card Stock: Basic Gray textured (108693---Neutrals assorted), Real Red (102482), Whisper White (100730); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335---Occasions Mini), Extra Large Two-Step Bird Punch (117191---Occasions Mini), Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402---Sale-a-bration); Glitz and Glam: Real Red 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109052)

Polar Pals Valentine

Every so often, an idea comes along that is just too good to pass by. And so it is with Laura Lipe's "Punched Polar Bears". I was was thrilled when I contacted Laura for permission to CASE her punched Polar Bears and feature them on "The Stampin' Schach"! Laura, of Smiles, Laura, tells me that she has had a ball with the bears. In fact she has designed several cards featuring these adorable creatures. According to Laura, "There is a lot you can do with them and EVERYONE seems to love polar bears! I can't wait to see what you make!!!" Thank you, Laura, for allowing me to showcase my version of "Da Bears". I hope that you are not disappointed in my "Polar Pals Valentine"!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Dust off those punches! For Mother Bear's Whisper White body and head, I used the 1-3/4" Circle Punch. Her ears were made from the Word Window Punch, while her snout was punched from the Large Oval Punch. Her Basic Black eyes are compliments of the Crop-a-dile, and her nose was punched with an ordinary paper punch. Going Gray ink, applied with a Sponge Dauber, defines the edges.


• Oh, baby! This bundle of baby bear cuteness was created by using the 1" Circle Punch for both the head and body. An ordinary 1/4" paper punch was used for the ears and the Crop-a-dile provided both the eyes and the nose.


• There's no business like snow business! Rip that paper, define the edges with Going Gray and ta-da...instant snow!


• Add a touch of whimsy! Who says you can't combine winter and Valentine's Day? The Jumbo Snowflake Punch is used to punch a Basic Black and Brushed Gold Snowflake. One of the darling Real Red Epoxy Brads, available from the Occasions Mini, makes a perfect snowflake center!


• Black hearts? Of course, when they compliment the Basic Black Modern Label! Punched with the new Small Heart Punch, don't they look adorable atop the Real Red grosgrain ribbon?

Sale-a-brate good times, come on! Let's Sale-a-brate!

How's that for paraphrasing Kool and the Gang! Now is the time to stock up on Stampin' Up! supplies while you earn free gifts. For every $50 you spend on product, you are entitled to one free gift from the Sale-a-bration brochure. With the addition of over 70 stamp sets from the Idea Book and Catalog, there are more free choices than ever before! And multiply these fortunes...spend $150 in product and earn three free Sale-A-bration gifts plus Hostess Rewards! Just Click Here to visit my online store. What could be easier!

I hope that you enjoyed today's card, and that I inspired you to try Laura's adorable punched bears. Your comments are very important to me, so please leave me a comment and let me know what you think of today's creation. And remember, if you ever have a question about the cards that I make or the techniques that I use, don't hesitate to email me. Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp Set: Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370); Paper: Bordering Blue (102630), Whisper White (100730), Basic Black textured (108693---Neutrals assorted), Brushed Gold (102935), Real Red (102482); Tools: Jumbo Snowflake Punch (116628), 1" Circle Punch (109046), Small Oval Punch (107304), 1-3/4" Circle Punch (112004), Word Window Punch (105090), Large Oval Punch (107305), Modern Label Punch (116630), Small Heart Punch (117193---Occasions Mini), Crop-a-dile (108362), Sponge Daubers (102892), 1/4" Paper Punch; Glitz and Glam: Real Red 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109052), Real Red Epoxy Brads (117270---Occasions Mini)

Snow Bird for the PPA

Our challenge this week at Pals Paper Arts is a theme challenge. "What is the theme?" you ask. It's ...SNOWFLAKES! First, I will say that I was challenged. What you see in front of you is my fourth try. And you know what...fourth time is a charm! I did change my mind mid-card (isn't that a woman's prerogative?), nixing the snowflakes that I was going to stamp in the background behind my little bird. Instead, this is a concept card. Think of a blustery winter's day. A darling little snowbird is hunkered down on a leafless brown branch, it's feathers slightly ruffled to protect itself against the cold. Isn't it amazing where our imaginations can take us? So put your imagination to the test, and join the Pals in this week's Snowflake challenge.

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Plan your punching! I knew that I wanted to make a Scalloped Trim Border Punch rectangle, so I measured out this matting element first. In this case, my Really Rust scalloped rectangle measures 3-13/16" x 3-1/4" before punching. Remember, punch all four corners first, then punch the edges!


• Think outside of the box! Who cares that the stamp set is named Spring Song! I needed a snowbird, so I reached for this set which I earned as a Sale-a-bration freebie! Chocolate Chip ink and a Blender Pen transformed a spring shoot into a dead branch, where a few brown leaves were left to rustle in the winter wind. Going Gray, Basic Gray, and Really Rust inks, plus Blender Pens, were used to tint the bird.


• Create texture in a matter of minutes! Zip Very Vanilla card stock through the Big Shot with the Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder. This folder is definitely one of my favorites from the Mini Occasions catalog.


• Did you "wonder" about my snowflake? I added a twist to a Basic Gray Jumbo Snowflake by adding a Really Rust Modern Label. The "Wonder" sentiment is actually "Small Wonder" from Sale-a-bration's Whimsical Words. I simply selectively inked it with a Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker.


• Of course, "it don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that bling"! A Filigree Brad with a small Pumpkin Circle Fire Brad center fills the bill!

Winter is not over, at least in Iowa. So dust off those snowflake stamps and punches that you may have packed away, and play @ PPA! Of course, I love your comments, so let me know what you think of my little "Snow Bird". And remember, you can always email me if you have questions about the cards that I make, or the techniques that I use. Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp Sets: Spring Song (115074), Whimsical Words (Wood 118386, Clear 119119---Sale-a-Bration); Card Stock: Basic Gray textured (108693---Neutrals assorted), Very Vanilla (101650), Really Rust textured (108697---Earth Elements assorted); Inks: Going Gray (103274), Basic Gray (109120), More Mustard (103162), Really Rust (102549), Chocolate Chip (100908); Tools: Big Shot (113439), SU! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335---Occasions Mini), Scalloped Trim Corner Punch (118870---Occasions Mini), Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402---Sale-a-Bration), Corner Rounder (109047), Modern Label Punch (116630), Jumbo Snowflake Punch (116628), Large Oval Punch (107305), Sponge Dauber (102892), Blender Pens (102845), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker (100082), Signo Gel Pen (105021); Glitz and Glam: Filigree Brad (112577), Circle Fire Brads (109110)

Bravo, Pretty Pumpkin Melon

It seems like so much time has passed since I last stamped. Isn't it funny how a few days can seem like an eternity? However, I felt up to a challenge today, and I must say that the ColourQ Challenge was certainly that! Pumpkin Pie with Melon Mambo, Bravo Burgundy, Pretty in Pink and White? Yikes! Since I had not used my Garden from the Heart stamp set yet, I decided to go for it! And you know what, I ended up liking this combination together. It was refreshing, in an avant garde way! Enjoy a slice of "Pretty Pumpkin Melon", and I will Whisper a Bravo while you Mambo!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Pack a punch! Punches stole the show on this card. The Pinking Heart Punch provides a delicate Melon Mambo border, while the Photo Corner Punch helps to frame the image mat. The Horizontal Slot Punch gives a twist to the Bravo Burgundy Designer Label, allowing Melon Mambo Ribbon to be laced under it. The "Merci" sentiment from Chic Boutique, inked in Bravo Burgundy and stamped onto Whisper White, is popped out with the Small Oval Punch.


• Ooo la la! A Pink Circle Fire Brad adds bling to a "designer" straw hat! The hat was stamped once in Basic Brown onto Whisper White, and then stamped a second time onto a selection from the Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper collection. The ribbon was then snipped out from the designer paper and adhered onto the first image, a tip gleaned from Mary Fish. Blender Pens and Pretty in Pink and Always Artichoke inks add life to the flowers.


• Butterflies flutter by! The new Stampin' Up! Beautiful Wings Embosslits die creates the cutest little butterflies! I selected two to accent the sentiment and the image mat.

I am so glad that I accepted this challenge. Challenges often push us beyond our comfort zone, while giving us permission to experiment. I probably would have never paired Melon Mambo and Pumpkin Pie if not for this challenge. Yet, I like the look! And speaking of challenges, have you played at the PPA yet this week? Remember that you have until Noon (CST) Tuesday to upload your Anything But a Card projects.

I would like to thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers these past few days. Aunt Margie passed away peacefully Thursday. Many of you have emailed me with your words of comfort. I am always amazed at how our "Stampin' Family" is there when we need them. Once again, I thank you so much.

As always, if you have any questions about the cards that I make or the techniques that I use, please do not hesitate to contact me. And, of course, I appreciate your comments. So please, won't you let me know what you think about today's card? Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Sets: Garden from the Heart (117004 W; 118568 C---Occasions Mini), Chic Boutique (113744); Inks: Basic Brown (104315), Always Artichoke (105219), Pretty in Pink (101301); Designer Series Paper: Sweet Pea (117161---Occasions Mini); Card Stock: Bravo Burgundy textured (108696---Rich Regal assorted), Melon Mambo (115320), Pretty in Pink (100459), Whisper White (100730); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335---Occasions Mini), Stampin' Up! Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die (118138---Occasions Mini), Photo Corner Punch (109042), Pinking Hearts Punch (117649---Occasions Mini), Designer Label Punch (107590), Small Oval Punch (107304), Horizontal Slot Punch (105089), Blender Pens (102845); Glitz and Glam: Melon Mambo 1/2" Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115611), Circle Fire Brads (109110)

Trio of Treat Boxes for the PPA

It’s Thursday! As you know, that means that it is time to play at PPA! Since this week’s challenge is “Anything But a Card”, I decided to share a trio of Valentine treat boxes that can be prepared in a snap. They all involve easy to use templates and Stampin’ Up!s delightful Sending Love Designer Series Paper from the Occasions Mini!

The Stampin’ Schach Design Tips:

"Ruffled Heart"

• Template, template…who has the template? Mel, that's who! I printed off this template from Mel Stampz and traced it onto Pretty in Pink card stock. Then I cut a second heart from the beautiful Sending Love Designer Series Paper. This formed the base on which to attach the ruffle.
• Fun and Feminine! Do you suffer from “ruffle-phobia”? I have the cure…a tutorial by Janine Tinklenberg, better known to all as "Jan Tink". Her tutorial can be found HERE! To be honest, the ruffle would have been easier to create from lighter-weight pattern paper, but I wanted to use Pretty in Pink card stock. Just be aware that you may have to be a little rougher with your ruffling! Tip: Mini Glue Dots can help to keep those pesky pleats in place!
• Satin Sensation! Don’t you love the new Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon? It’s such a rich, yummy color, and just perfect for a traditional bow!
• Glitter optional! Several of the Sending Love patterns are pre-glittered, saving you time and resources. What could be faster and easier?

"Rectangular Box "

• Wowza! It doesn’t get any easier than this! Just cut out a 6-9/16" wide by 7-1/16" long rectangle, and cut and score as shown above. The score lines are at the following measurements: 13/16", 2-3/4", 3-11/16", 5-11/16".

• A simple sleeve created from Sending Love Designer Series Paper, trimmed with Very Vanilla Pinking Hearts, is all that is needed to decorate this Real Red beauty. Top it off with hearts and a sentiment from Teeny Tiny Wishes and you are good to go!

"Lots of Hearts Carton"

• I {heart} the Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslit! And a miniature heart is as close as the Small Heart Punch, which will have you singin' "You've gotta have hearts...lots and lots and lots of hearts!"
• Pop it up! This wonderful sentiment from With All My Heart is popped up on Stampin' Dimensionals. What a great way to add depth and dimension!
• Don't let this template fool you! It is easier than it looks. Try it, you''ll like it!

As always, my Design Team Pals have prepared some delightful creations for you over at the Pals Paper Arts challenge site. Get ready to be impressed! All brands of products and all skill levels are welcome, so come play @ PPA! And remember, your comments are very important to me! I love reading them and answering your questions! So, please…won’t you share your thoughts with me today? Until next time…

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp Sets: Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370), With All My Heart (W 118134, C 118623---Occasions Mini); Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Very Vanilla (104308), Real Red Stampin’ Write Marker(100052), Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker (100071); Designer Series Paper: Sending Love (117153); Card Stock: Real Red (102482), Pretty in Pink (100459), Very Vanilla (101650), Chocolate Chip (102128); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslit (117332---Occasions Mini), Full Heart Punch (113693), Small Heart Punch (117193---Occasions Mini), Pinking Hearts Border Punch (117649), Scalloped Trim Border Punch (118402); Glitz and Glam: Chocolate Chip 5/8" Satin Ribbon (117287---Occasions Mini)

Sneak Peek of PPA26 and Missing in Action

As some of you have noticed, I have been missing in action. It has definitely been a stressful week, marked by the end of first semester and stacks of tests to grade. As those of you who are teachers know, you are under the gun to get grades calculated and posted. It was also stressful since it was time for Brady, my son, to return to college after having spent a wonderful month-long break at home. I so thoroughly enjoyed my time with him, and I will miss him. And at this already stressful time, I received sad news about my Aunt Margie.

I was named after my Aunt Margaret, my father's sister. At age 82, Aunt Margie has been placed in hospice care. Her kidneys have shut down and she has elected to receive no treatment. I was called and told that she may not last the week. So it was with a heavy heart that I visited her yesterday. It was hard to fight back the tears, knowing that this would probably be the last time, barring a miracle, that I would talk with her. We reminisced about family. We talked about Brady and how she always loved hearing Brady play the trumpet in church. She told me tell him she was proud of him. We talked about when I was a little girl and would stay at her house. We talked about watching "House Hunters" on HGTV, and the beautiful homes that she had seen. We talked about quilting. We talked about the little dog who was laying faithfully beside her. We talked about the trivial happenings of a normal day. And we talked about the inevitable. As I got up to leave, I held her hands in mine, and said, choking back the tears, "Bye, Aunt Margie. I'll see you later this week. I love you!" One should always believe in miracles...

Thank you for allowing me to share this with you. Sometimes sharing helps. I will be back on Thursday with my Pals Paper Arts challenge. Until next time...

Chocolate Candy Inspiration Challenge

It's Thursday and that means that it's time to play @ PPA. This week we are hosting an Inspiration Challenge. Mmmmmm! Chocolate! What could be better inspiration than that? As I looked at today's inspiration photo, I saw red...literally. So I selected Real Red for my focal color for this quick and easy card. Whisper White mimics the candy wrapper, while the Dove symbolizes Dove Chocolates. Of course the Chocolate Chip cardstock is self-explanatory. Did you notice how the small Chocolate Chip Epoxy Brads represent the drizzle on the piece of chocolate? OK...maybe that IS carrying my inspiration a bit too far! Have fun with today's challenge, and remember, as Forrest's mamma always said, "Life is like a box of chocolates."

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• It's all about the texture! First, textured Chocolate Chip and textured Real Red card stock form the background mats. Next, we have Whisper White which has been zipped through the Big Shot with the new Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (one of my new favorites). Finally, a Real Red Scalloped Heart of Heart Embosslits completes the "texture-fest"!


• Oddly enough (pun intended), embellishments look best in "threes"! Three new Chocolate Chip Epoxy Brads fit perfectly above the sentiment...and I really did select them because they reminded me of the drizzle on top of the chocolate!


• 'Tis the season! Sometimes out-of-season sets hold the answer to a design dilemma. This heart was aching for something to keep it company. Enter the "Love Dove" from my secret stash of stamps. Oh, all right...It's just the Dove from Gifts of Christmas. Snipped out and popped up on a Stampin' Dimensional, it provided the finishing touch that this quick and easy card needed.

I don't know about you, but all of this card making has made me a wee bit famished. Let's see, do I want M and M's....or Snickers...or Peppermint Patties...or a Butterfinger...or Hugs...or Kisses...In the meantime, while I try to decide on a chocolate confection, let me know that you stopped by for a visit today. Leave me a comment and let me know what you think about my "Dove Chocolate" card. Your comments are important to me and so are your questions. Please, do not hesitate to email me if you ever have a question about the cards that I make or the techniques that I use. Until next time...



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Stamp Sets: Gifts of Christmas (115372), Well Scripted (W 117072, C 118601); Inks: Chocolate Chip (100908), Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker (100071), Real Red Stampin' Write Marker (100052); Paper: Real Red textured (108698---Bold Brights assorted), Chocolate Chip textured (108697---Earth Elements assorted), Whisper White (); Tools: Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402---Sale-A-Bration), Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335), Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits Die (117332---Occasions Mini), Lots of Tags Sizzlits (114508), Big Shot (113439), Sponge Dauber (102892), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430); Glitz and Glam: Chocolate Chip Sending Love Epoxy Brads (117272---Occasions Mini)