Mommy and Me Tips at the Pony Party

I will be the first to admit that I know very little about girls...I am the mother of a boy! So it was with trepidation that I agreed to design a card for "Schach Pack" member Amy Ryan's "Mommy and Me" workshop this afternoon. First of all, I wasn't quite certain what little girls in first through fourth grades would like or what they would be able to do. After all, I teach the "big kids". However, I was delighted with what a big hit my Pony Party card was! At first, I was not going to post this card to my blog, but then I decided that maybe we could all benefit from what I learned from helping Amy at her workshop this afternoon. Let's par-teh with the ponies!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Take a tip from the Boy Scouts and be prepared! Before the workshop I stamped the Pony onto Whisper White card stock using Basic Black ink and matted it onto Melon Mambo. Since I didn't want to lose any little fingers, I also pre-cut the Bermuda Bay and Whisper White panels.


• Kids of all ages love the Big Shot! Although I presented the option of not embossing the Whisper White horizontal layer, and instead stamping the little flowers and hearts and stars and rainbows that came with the Pony Party set, little girls know what's classy at an early age! Every single one of them opted for Stampin' Up!'s Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder! Is this not cool?


• Blender Pen protocol! Stampin' Up!'s Watercolor Pencils are a big hit when coupled with Blender Pens! And it is never too early to train little stampers in the basics of Blender Pen use and care. We learned how to clean them and how to remember to keep them capped when not in use!


• Adhesives 101! We learned how to hold the SNAIL Adhesive at the proper angle and how to use Mini Glue Dots to adhere butterflies so you can raise their wings.


• Sandwiches are not just for eating! Every single stamper today embossed their own Perfect Polka Dots and Beautiful Wings Embosslits. Not a single one forgot the proper "sandwich"!


• Embrace originality and creativity! In shades of pink, purple, brown, and blue...there were ponies colored in every hue! Butterflies swarmed in various areas of the card, and not every pony was positioned like the sample. After all, isn't a large part of the fun of card making, being able to put your own "stamp" on the card!

In addition, hostess Amy Ryan designed a birthday card for the young ladies to make using Stampin' Up!'s Big Bold Cupcake Sizzlits. Yep...there's no doubt about it...stampers of all ages love the Big Shot! By the end of the afternoon, ponies and cupcakes decorated the room and Butter Brickle Bars were quickly snarfed up. After all, stamping does work up one's appetite! And what did the mommies end up doing, you ask? They were in charge of the Scallop Trim Border Punch...and more than one colored their own Pretty Pony!

Amy is just one of my downline members who is doing what they love and sharing it with others. For more information on how you can become a member of my downline group, The Schach Pack, just click on "Join the Schach Pack", located at the top of today's post. I would love to mentor you as you begin your Stampin' Up! journey. As newest member Leslie Stone has stated, "From the moment that I decided to sign up as a demonstrator, Ann took the time to walk me through the process and helped me make decisions about what items to purchase that would help me hold my very first workshop. She is always more than willing to help me when I have questions about products and techniques. To me, this is what mentoring is about."

Join me next time, when I will welcome talented Schach Pack Artist, Donette Barry as my Guest Stamper. Donette's cards are simply stunning! I guarantee that you will be in for a treat. In the meantime, if you have any questions about today's "Mommy and Me" card or the techniques that I use, don't hesitate to email me. Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7
Stamp Set: Pony Party (115217); Inks: Basic Black (101179); Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Melon Mambo (115320), Bermuda Bay (115317); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335---Occasions Mini), Stampin' Up! Beautiful Wings Embosslits (118138---Occasions Mini), Stampin' Up! Watercolor Pencils (101879), Blender Pens (102845), Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402), SNAIL Adhesive (104332), Mini Glue Dots (103683)

Distressed Bird for the PPA

For today's Pals Paper Arts Challenge, based on an inspiration photo, I decided to just stay with the general idea of "Birds". Sure...I thought about doing something fancy, like gold embossed birds. I thought about using one of my two stamps that have birds in cages (Chic Boutique and the Sale-a-bration set, Happy Moments). I even thought about using my Extra Large Two Step Bird Punch. However, in the end I selected a Hostess Level 2 Set which I have used very little, Wings of Friendship. After a Clean and Simple trend for the past few cards, I decided that I wanted to get a little "distressed" with today's inspiration. So I pulled out my Sponge Daubers and Color Spritzer Tool, and set to work on my inspiration card, entitled "Distressed Bird for the PPA". Have fun with today's challenge!



The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Larger stamped images require larger card bases! Since the central image on this card is rather large, I elected to use a 5-1/4" square card base. At this size, it slips easily into Stampin' Up!'s square envelopes!


• Little details add up for big impact! The paper piercing around the Night of Navy Scalloped Oval; the Jumbo Grommet through which the ribbon is laced; the textured Photo Corners created with the Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder all contribute to the design elements of this card. Yet, they are created in the wink of an eye!


• Think outside of the box! The Scalloped Trim Corner Punched pattern paper, peeking from underneath the Large Photo Corner adds a touch of whimsey. While the tiny Regal Rose flowers stamped with the Eastern Blooms set and then snipped out with Paper Snips, add a pop of color to the Always Artichoke branch.


• Get dirty! Sponge Daubers, Close to Cocoa and Chocolate Chip inks are all it takes to add a vintage and distressed feel to any card. And never overlook the impact of the easy to use Color Spritzer Tool. For this card I used a Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker, and spritzed the Bella Bleu Designer Series Paper as well as the Very Vanilla card stock.


• Bitty Bows! Linen Thread bows are used to hold the ends of the Always Artichoke 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon together.

I once had someone tell me that they could never create a card like this. Well, guess what...it's not hard! Time consuming, yes. Difficult, no! And as far as the time is concerned, the bulk of my time is spent coming up with the initial design. Once that's in place, the rest is easy! And if you have never tried a more distressed look, go for it! Just grab your Sponge Daubers and Color Spritzer!

So, let me know what you think about today's card by leaving a comment. And remember, if you ever have any questions about the cards that I create or the techniques that I use, I am only an email away! Now head on over to the Pals Paper Arts site and check out the other wonderful cards. Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7
Stamp Sets: Wings of Friendship (114308---Hostess Level 2), Eastern Blooms (111626); Inks: Close to Cocoa (103139), Chocolate Chip (100908); Stampin' Write Markers: Close to Cocoa (100072), Regal Rose (105108), Always Artichoke (105116), Night of Navy (100069); Designer Series Paper: Bella Bleu (113974); Card Stock: Kraft (102125), Night of Navy (100867), Very Vanilla (101650); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335), Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402), Scallop Trim Corner Punch (118870), Photo Corners Punch (109042), Corner Rounder (109047), Paper Snips (103579), Color Spritzer Tool (107066), Sponge Daubers (102892), Paper Piercer (); Glitz and Glam: Rich Regals Brads (106953), Antique Brass Jumbo Grommets (108431), Linen Thread (104199), Always Artichoke 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109035)

PPA Sneak Peek and Schach Pack Welcome

Here is your sneak peek at this week's Pals Paper Arts challenge card. Do you recognize any of the design elements? Stay tuned for the complete reveal on Thursday at 5:00 AM CST and see if any of your guesses are correct!

As many of you know, Sale-a-bration is the perfect time to become a Stampin' Up! demonstrator! What better time is there to complete your wish list? That is exactly why Leslie Stone of Washington, IL decided to become the newest member of my downline group, The Schach Pack! Leslie customized her Starter Kit to fit her tastes and needs through a phone consultation with me. Plus she purchased the Stampin' Memories Add-on, too. She has already scheduled her first workshop, and plans to take full advantage of receiving 30% off her first qualifying order of $150. What's on her wish list? The Tabletop Paper Cutter, Stampin' Write Markers, and tons of Designer Series Papers! Although I hate to lose Leslie as a customer, I look forward to being her mentor.

And making her mark on the challenge scene is Schach Pack member, Donette Barry! Donette, of Castle Rock, Colorado is a multiple challenge winner, including selections as a Pals Artist Pick and Splitcoast Clean and Simple Favorite, to name a few. Her SCS name is dbarry, in case you would like to check out her wonderful gallery. I will be featuring Donette's work on The Stampin' Schach in the near future. If you are in the Castle Rock area, Donette is available for workshops and stamp camps.

As a member of the Schach Pack, you can experience the SPA treatment! I will help you become a Schach Pack Artist! Let me use my award-winning teaching expertise to help you improve your stamping skills and improve your craft. I will personally help every member of The Schach Pack become the stamper and cardmaker he or she wants to be. Exclusive technique sheets, tip sheets and tutorials are being prepared just for this purpose. Plus, you will have access to an exclusive blog where we will share ideas, personal successes and friendship. Please CLICK HERE to read more about the Starter Kit special. And if you have any questions about joining the Schach Pack and the services that I offer my downline, please EMAIL ME. I will gladly help you customize your own Starter Kit.

It's midterm time, so my days this week are filled with tests and my evenings with parent-teacher conferences and paper-grading. Where is my stamping time? Arghhhh!

As I leave you today, won't you please help me earn the Number One or Number Two Badge? How you ask? Simply Click here to order Stampin' Up! 24/7! I am always willing to help you select the right product or guide you in its usage. Until next time...

We Have a Winner

Since today is the day in which I will reveal the "lucky" winner of the Stampin' Schach blog candy, it is only fitting that I share with you this card, which features my favorite Textured Impressions Folder, "Perfect Polka Dots", a Stampin' Up! exclusive available from the Occasions Mini. The Go Green stamp set provides the perfect sentiment, while the Small Heart Punch creates a four-leaf-clover in the wink of an Irish eye! In a matter of minutes, you can create this clean and simple, KISSable card!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• White space doesn't have to be boring! Jazz it up with Mr. Big Shot and a Textured Impressions Folder. My folder du jour is Stampin' Up!s Perfect Polka Dots. Clean, classy and sassy!
• Who says hearts are only for Valentine's Day? Not St. Patrick! Four Handsome Hunter hearts can be assembled to make a lucky clover in seconds. More of a shamrock person? Use three hearts instead. A 1/2" Circle makes the perfect base on which to adhere the points of the hearts.
• Need a stem in a hurry? Put those Paper Snips to work, and snip a scrap of Handsome Hunter. How easy is that!
• Do the "Bling Thing"! A Clear Rhinestone Brad adds sparkle, while a snippet of Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon adds whimsy and balance to the layout!

And the nice thing about this card...it truly can be made in a matter of minutes! And now, drum roll please...the winner of the Stampin' Schach blog candy is:

jimlynn

I would like to thank all of you for the wonderful comments that you have left on my recent posts. Your support and advice were taken to heart. I also appreciate the emails that several of you have sent, asking how I am doing. Each day gets better, as we all knew it would. Time heals. I know that one day we will add a new member to our family, as none of us can imagine our life without a four-legged friend in it. And when we begin the search for another Boxer baby, I will share that journey with you. Missy would want that...

Did you know that you can earn Stampin' Up! Sale-a-bration gifts on-line? Choose from over 80 free items with every $50 you spend. It's so easy! Just CLICK HERE to visit my on-line Stampin' Up! store! Or are you ready to take the plunge and become a Stampin' Up! demonstrator? You can become a member of the Schach Pack by taking advantage of Stampin' Up!s current Starter Kit special. Not only will you receive all of the perks of being a demonstrator (including being able to purchase sneak peek items), you will also have access to a private blog. For more details CLICK HERE. Hobby or career? You are welcome!

Time to get stampin'! This afternoon I will be working on my next Pals Paper Arts challenge card. Stay tuned early next week for a sneak peek! In the meantime, there is still time to participate in this week's KISS challenge. Check out the Pals Paper Arts Gallery for inspiration. So, before you go, let me know what you think about today's St. Paddy's card by leaving me a comment. And remember, if you ever have a question about the cards that I make, or the products that I use, please email me. Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Set: Go Green (117074); Ink: Handsome Hunter (105215); Paper: Handsome Hunter (105122), Whisper White (100730), Basic Black (102851); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335), Small Heart Punch (117193---Occasions Mini), 1/2" Circle Punch (104390); Glitz and Glam: Clear Rhinestone Brad (113144), Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109027)

KISSable Kat for the PPA

Happy Thursday! It's time to play at PPA! This week's challenge is to make a "KISS" card. KISS is an acronym for Keep It Simple Sweetie. These types of cards feature white space, minimal layers, and fewer embellishments. I typically am not a clean and simple person, so this really was a challenge for me. It features the "C is for Cat" stamp set, which I earned through Sale-a-bration, and the delicious Basic Black 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon. In case you are wondering about the significance of the Heart Epoxy Brad, this upcoming Saturday just happens to be National Love Your Pet Day. Now while there are those KISS purists who might argue that this is not KISSable because it has layers and embellishments, it is KISSable to me. My argument is that it does have a lot of white space, or in this case, Very Vanilla space! If it is KISSable to you, it is KISSable to the Pals Paper Arts Design Team! So please, do not hesitate to play along with us!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• When designing a KISS card, texture creates an obvious "Wow" factor. I just love the Stampin' Up! exclusive Textured Impressions Folder, Perfect Polka Dots. It's subdued dots do not overpower your design, but instead deliver an understated elegance.


• Good things come in small packages! The Swirls Scribbles Sizzlits Die packs a visual punch that is hard to overlook.


• Never underestimate the power of three! With this card, three colors (Real Red, Basic Black, Very Vanilla) are the perfect number. I have had several people email and ask how I know which color to use as an accent color. There are formulas that you can follow, but my best advice is to use what you think looks best. I happen to be an advocate of a coordinated look. Often my accent color will be the same as my card base, or in some situations I will look at a specific embellishment for guidance. (I knew that I wanted to use the Heart Epoxy Brad since this card was designed for National Love Your Pet Day. Therefore, I let the Real Red of the heart be my inspiration color for this card.)


• Can you bling a KISS card? Of course! The red rhinestone, retrieved from a Red Circle Fire Brad, provides just the right accent for my KISSable Kat's collar.

I hope that today's tips and card have provided you with the inspiration to participate in this week's PPA challenge. There is no one correct way to create a KISS card, so go for it! I love checking out your creations! And remember, leave your comment by 10:00 PM CST tonight to be eligible for my delicious Blog Candy. CLICK HERE to view the wonderful items I am giving away. I am so excited to be selecting the random winner and announcing the name on The Stampin' Schach Saturday! Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!
Stamp Set: C is for Cat (120210---Sale-a-bration or 115764---IBC); Ink: Basic Black (101179); Card Stock: Very Vanilla (100730), Real Red (102482), Basic Black (102851); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335---Ocassions Mini), Swirls Scribbles Sizzlits Die (113441), Scalloped Trim Corner Punch (118870---Occasions Mini), Scalloped Trim Border Punch (118402---Sale-a-bration); Glitz and Glam: Basic Black 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon (115615), Circle Fire Brads (109110), Real Red Epoxy Brads (117270---Occasions Mini)

PPA Sneak Peek

How about a little sneak peek of this week's Pals Paper Arts card? Shhhh! Mum's the word! I found it a challenge this week because it is not something that I would ordinarily create. But that is the purpose of a challenge...to force one to pursue a style or to use colors outside of his or her comfort zone. The entire card will be revealed Thursday at 5:00 AM CST. I used a stamp set which I earned through Sale-a-bration and 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon. Believe it or not...I have used this size ribbon only once before. I don't know why. I see other people use it, and I think to myself, "Wow! I really need to use this ribbon." Does that ever happen to any of you?

Don't forget that my Blog Candy celebration is coming to a close. At 10:00 PM CST on Thursday, February 18th, I will use a random number generator to select a winner from all of the comments left during this time span. The more you comment, the greater your chances of winning! The winner will be announced on The Stampin' Schach on Saturday, February 20th. I can't believe the outpouring of support that you have given me as we "Celebrate" together. And for those of you who have sent cards to me, I will be featuring them on The Stampin' Schach within the next few weeks.

So, I will leave you today with this little snippet of a card...a taste of what will be revealed Thursday! As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email me. Until next time...

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

Our Attitude Toward Life

One of my favorite stamps for the past holiday season was Dasher, so it is no surprise that I absolutely had to have the Decor Elements Dasher Level II Hostess Gift. Of course, I wanted the luxury of hanging Dasher on my wall next year and the next year and the year after! Well, you get the picture! So I decided to invest in a frame, and just switch out the glass and Decor Element depending on the season. I kept Dasher up as long as I felt I possibly could, and I finally decided that it was time to corral him in the closet until next winter.

Since I loved my frame (I am a cherry/mahogany kind of girl), I was limited somewhat in my selection of Decor Elements that would work in a 16 x 20 frame. Luckily, I loved the "Our Attitude Toward Life" saying, and it fit perfectly into my existing frame. Just a quick trip to the local glass store, a hammer and glazier points were all it took to switch out the glass.

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Don't take shortcuts! Before starting the application, read all instructions thoroughly and know your product. Every Decor Elements has three layers: a backing sheet with gridlines, the image which will be transferred to your desired surface, and a sticky tansfer sheet through which you can see the image.


• Cleanliness counts, when applying Decor Elements! I cleaned the glass thoroughly with an ammonia based spray cleaner, and made certain that the glass was completely dry before attempting to apply my image.


• Be prepared! Know exactly where you plan on placing the image on the glass. The gridlines on the backing sheet will help you.


• Slow and steady wins the race! Work carefully and slowly with the images. You will save time in the long run by completely and firmly rubbing the backing sheet with the Decor Elements Applicator Tool. And when peeling off the backing sheet, take your time. You may have to repeat this rubbing procedure several times if the image has not completely transferred to the transfer sheet. This is normal...don't panic!


• If two heads are better than one, it follows that four hands can be better than two! When placing the image sticky side down...it sticks! I found out the hard way with Dasher! Luckily he landed in the right spot! So this time I was not going to take any chances. I enlisted the help of my husband. (He really does like helping out with my Stampin' Up! projects.) This time, no problems!


• Bubble trouble? Occasionally there will be small bubbles in some of the more solid pieces. I poke them with a sharp needle, and work the air out through the opening. Because the hole is so small, no one is the wiser!

Do you have Decor Elements-phobia? Don't be afraid. Yes...you have to be patient. But remember, good things come to those who wait! So good-by, sweet Dasher, bring on the Attitude!

Time Keeps on Slippin', Slippin', Slippin' into the Future...

But there is still time to:

• Order Stampin' Up! to take advantage of the great Sale-a-bration promotion. With every $50 of product, receive free Stampin' Up! items from the Sale-a-bration brochure! To order from my on-line store CLICK HERE!


• Join me as a member of The Schach Pack! Sale-a-bration is a perfect time to take advantage of the Stampin' Up! Starter Kit Special. Wouldn't you like to receive discounts on Stampin' Up! products, plus join me at this year's Convention? CLICK HERE for more details, or EMAIL ME if you have questions.


• Help me celebrate my Stampin' Up! Anniversary. Leave a comment and become eligible for delicious calorie-free Blog Candy! Who can resist blog candy?

Remember, if you ever have a question about the cards or projects that I create, or the techniques that I use, please email me. If you do happen to ask a question in your comment, I will either answer you in a later comment, or comment on your blog, or email you if I have access to your address. And remember, I do appreciate your comments. So, won't you let me know that you stopped by? Until next time...

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

Our Attitude Toward Life Decor Element (119433---Chocolate, Medium as shown)

Dasher Hostess Level 2 (117958---Chocolate)

Butterflies of the Heart

Today was "challenging" around my house! Usually on Saturdays I check out some of my favorite challenges, hoping to find something that strikes my fancy. And lo, and behold, I found two that were intriguing! First, the design team over at Stampin' Royalty were hosting a Love/Valentine Theme challenge. Since Valentine's Day is tomorrow, how could I pass up one last chance to design a Valentine? And then, as a bonus, the gals at Crazy 4 Challenges were sponsoring a RED challenge. How could I resist? So, trying my hand at clean and simple, I designed a card that can be created in a few minutes. Enjoy "Butterflies of the Heart"!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• When you want to be a "Big Shot" with your cards, reach for your Big Shot! In a matter of minutes I zippity-zipped Whisper White card stock through the Big Shot along with the new Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder. And then with great speedy-speed, I did the same thing with the Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits Die and Real Red, and again with Whisper White. And because I wanted to crank that handle some more, I passed Real Red through with the Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die. (As an added plus, using your Big Shot is a great way to tone up those upper arms!)


• Add antennae! The science teacher in me couldn't bear to leave my butterfly sensory deprived. Paper Snips and a sliver of Basic Black card stock quickly remedied the problem.


• Bling your bug! What could be prettier than a rhinestone thorax? (Don't you love it when I speak "science"?) Staying true to my Stampin' Up! roots, I "dissected" a trio of Clear Rhinestone Brads to produce these shiny beauties!


• Seeing spots before your eyes? Don't worry. It's not dengue fever. I took the Whisper White Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits, and punched out a Full Heart. After adhering it to the Real Red Scalloped Heart of Hearts, I popped them up on Stampin' Dimensionals.

The Stampin' Schach Reminders

Remember that Sale-a-bration is the perfect time to become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. For as little as $169, plus tax, you could become a member of the Schach Pack, my downline team! I offer mentoring, plus access to an exclusive downline website, and I welcome all types of demonstrators into my group...Hobby, Career and everything in-between. Wouldn't you like to receive discounts on Stampin' Up! products, plus join me at this year's Convention? CLICK HERE for more details, or EMAIL ME if you have questions.

And, if you would like to earn FREE stamp sets, don't forget to place your on-line order with me. For EVERY $50 of product, you receive free items from the Sale-a-bration brochure. We are both winners when you order from me.

And...don't forget my delicious Blog Candy giveaway. TWO stamp sets, over 75 sheets of 6 x 6 card stock, silk flowers, brads, ribbon, rhinestone "Celebrate", a Stampin' Write marker, and a Clean and Simple Splitcoast Favorite card designed by me. A winner will be randomly selected from all comments left on The Stampin' Schach from February 12th through February 18th. Help me celebrate my Stampin' Up! anniversary!

If you have any questions about the cards that I create or the techniques that I use, I am just an email away! And remember, I love reading your comments, just like I love posting comments on your Pals Paper Arts challenge cards. You can upload your creations through 12:00 Noon CST Tuesday. Who knows...you could be the next PPA Artist Pick! Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Whisper White Textured (106529---Neutrals assorted), Basic Black (102851), Real Red (102482); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335), Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslits Die (117332), Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die (118138), Full Heart Punch (113694); Glitz and Glam: Clear Rhinestone Brads (113144), Real Red 5/8" Satin Ribbon (117286)

Do Not Be Sad, Come Celebrate with Me

A week ago I had planned to unveil my delicious Stampin' Schach Blog Candy when tragedy struck my family. With the death of Missy the Boxer, celebrating was the last thing on my mind. A week has passed, and today marks the 11th anniversary of when we adopted Missy. Your kind words have helped to heal, and although a void still exists, I have reached the realization that I still have many reasons to celebrate. These are symbolized in my blog candy:

• My First Year Anniversary as a Stampin'Up! Demonstrator occurred February 1st! Since paper is the traditional gift for first anniversaries, this blog candy contains over 75 six inch by six inch card stock squares!
• The unconditional love of Missy the Boxer for almost eleven years. There was no buddy like my buddy. Therefore, I have included an unmounted "Snow Buddies" Hostess Level 2 set from the last Holiday Mini.
• A "perfect" 34 year career as a teacher. I have loved every minute of it. Since it was a "plum" job, I have included a new "Perfect Plum" Stampin' Write Marker!
• A blog whose readers and followers are tied together by their love of stamping and papercrafting. To symbolize this tie that binds, I have included a roll of Certainly Celery Ribbon from last year's Sale-a-bration Ribbon Bundle.
• Virtual friends whose words have comforted me. What could better represent this than the 2009 Level 1 Hostess Set, "Comfort Food"!
• Valentine's Day! Real Red Classic Ink to symbolize red roses.
• I have also added a few cute brads, some silk flowers, and bling simply because I wanted to!

In addition, I am also including this card, which was selected as a Clean and Simple Favorite a few months ago on Splitcoast. I feel that it's sentiment, from Vintage Vogue, is very appropriate in light of my recent life experiences.

And so, "Donut Be Sad", come "Celebrate" with me! Starting with today's post through next Thursday's Pals Paper Arts challenge card post, please leave a comment. At 10:00 PM CST on Thursday, February 18th, I will use a random number generator to select a winner from all of the comments left during this time span. The more you comment, the greater your chances of winning! The winner will be announced on "The Stampin' Schach" on Saturday, February 19th. The winner will need to email their address to me.

Remember, if you ever have any questions about the cards that I create or the techniques that I use, please do not hesitate to email me. I am always willing to answer your questions! And by the way, did you notice my newest badge under my signature? Another reason to celebrate, and to purchase your Stampin' Up! products from me. Until next time...

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

A Breath of Spring for the PPA

It's Thursday, and we all know what that means. It's time for another Pals Paper Arts challenge! With the weather we've been having lately, I decided that it was time for a breath of spring. Armed with sketch in hand, I reached for the "Floral" images from Vintage Vogue (my favorite set from the Occasions Mini) and the sentiment from Spring Song, a sweet little set that I earned during Sale-a-bration. Won't you play along with the Pals this week? We have yummy blog candy for you over at the PPA...Mmmm! Delightful, delicious calorie-free blog candy. And if that doesn't convince you, just look at this classy sketch:

So grab your stamps, ink, paper and punches. It's time to play @ PPA!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• 
  
  Seeing spots before your eyes? Don't call the doctor yet. It's just Stampin' Up!s cheerful Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack. I selected the Old Olive and Rose Red Polka Dotted patterns. I love these two colors together, and the spring look they impart to the design.
• 
  
  Still feeling a little dotty? That's because I zipped a piece of Whisper White card stock through my Big Shot along with the Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder. Not only does it coordinate with the dotted pattern paper, the impressions are so crisp that they "pop" right off the page.
• 
  
  Oops! Something crimped my style! Free-hand leaves were Paper Snipped from Old Olive card stock which had been passed through the Crimper. After all, the more texture the merrier.
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  A quartet of punches makes this card sing! After stamping the sentiment from Spring Song onto Whisper White, it was punched out using the Wide Oval Punch. A Scallop Oval peeks out from underneath, while an Old Olive Modern Label forms the foundation on which to adhere two small blossoms. And who can overlook the impact of the Scallop Trim Border Punch.
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  Nothing sings spring like bling! Green Circle Ice Brads are the perfect center for any flower. Their only drawback is that they are addictive. You can't stop with just one!

People have asked if I ever use the cards I create. And the answer is "Sometimes, yes! Sometimes, no!" However, this card will be making a new home with my next door neighbors, along with a plate of white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. Armed with shovels and snow blower, they cleared my sidewalks and driveway. Their friendship truly is like a song of spring!

Please remember to leave a comment before you check out the wonderful inspirations from my fellow Design Team Pals. Your comments are important to me, and I do read each and every one of them. Of course, you can always email me if you ever have any questions about the cards that I create or the techniques that I use. Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Sets: Vintage Vogue (W 117690, C 118598---Occasions Mini), Spring Song (115074); Inks: Old Olive (102277), Chocolate Chip (100908), Rose Red (101778), So Saffron (105213), Pretty in Pink (101301), Going Gray (103274); Designer Paper: Sweet Pea (117161---Occasions Mini); Card Stock: Old Olive (100702), Whisper White (100730); Tools: Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402), Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder (117335---Occasions Mini), Large Oval Punch (112082), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Modern Label Punch (116630), Crimper (101618), Sponge Dauber (102892), Paper Snips (103579); Glitz and Glam: Circle Ice Brads (109111)

Let's Get Hoppin'

Welcome to the Pals Holiday Hop! If you've arrived from Kalshelia Lloyd's Stampin' Fabulousity, I am Stop Number 2 on the hop! Hop along with me and my fellow Pal Hoppers, and we will direct you through the entire hop of wonderful creations! Should you become lost along the way, you may access the entire Hop Line-Up at the end of today's post. The goal of today's hop is to showcase several of the stamp sets available to you during this year's Sale-a-bration. I will be introducing you to Spring Song and D is for Dog. Since there are several more stops to make, let's get started with what I have created for you!

Spring Song

Pastel colors from the Soft Subtle family form the palette for this delightfully feminine card. It's quick and easy, and truly is a breath of spring during this snowy Febrbuary.

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

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  Texture, texture everywhere! Textured Mellow Moss forms the card base, while Pretty in Pink is zipped throught the Big Shot with the new Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder. What an easy way to add interest!
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  I needed a hug this week, so I used Stampin' Up!s adorable "Hugs"Sending Love Notes. These Whisper White cards sport a dainty scallop, which I paper pierced. A blush of Regal Rose accents the edges.
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  Tired of ho-hum hummingbirds? Blender Pens and a variety of inks bring this little aviator to life. I used Taken with Teal, Regal Rose, Going Gray and Old Olive for his plumage, while the flower was tinted with Regal Rose, Always Artichoke, Pretty in Pink and So Saffron.

D is for Dog

I love dogs, so when Stampin' Up! came out with the D is for Dog set this fall, it was one of the first sets that I purchased. In tribute to Missy the Boxer, I created one final card for her. We actually welcomed Missy in to our home on Valentine's Day, so it seemed fitting to make a Valentine to place into her Memorial Box, along with her favorite toys, collar, leash, and chewie. The sentiment "You Stole My Heart" is from the Love Bandit set, while the "Dotted Heart" is from I {Heart} Hearts. She truly did leave a pawprint on my heart.

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

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  Want to mix and match patterns? Remove the guess work by using perfectly coordinated Designer Series Paper. Sending Love Specialty Designer Series Paper shines with glittery designs.
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  Glitz and Glam! Notice the red rhinestone accenting the paw print? It was removed from a Circle Fire Brad by simply lifting up the prongs on the back. How easy is that?

The great thing about both of these sets is their versatility! Here are two more cards previously featured on The Stampin' Schach which showcase these sets:

I hope that you enjoyed today's cards. Your comments are important to me, so please leave a comment before you "hop" away. And remember, if you have any questions about today's cards, don't hesitate to email me.

The Pals Blog Hop continues with your next stop at Margaret Moody's. Hop over and see what exciting creations Margaret has in store for you! Until next time...

Blog Hop 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

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

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...