Sally's Challenge Chatter

Sketches in Thyme Take #69 & Memorable Season Color Challenge

2012-02-09T07:10:00.000-08:00

It's that thyme again...time for a new sketch at Sketches in Thyme. Today's sketch is a great one for those single photos you have laying around. Here is today's sketch:

And here is my take on it. This is dd holding my niece at dd's going away party. Thought it was a darling photo! I also combined this sketch with a color challenge at Memorable Seasons.

Sketches in Thyme Take #67

2012-01-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

It's double layout time at Sketches in Thyme. Love how many photos you can get on a double layout. For this one I found some older photos of my youngest...he was such a cutie! Here's the sketch:

When I first saw this I was a little puzzled at how to make this work for my photos. I finally decided to add photos in the white space and came up with the idea to add tags where the photos were designed to go. Papers/tags are Echo Park.

Be sure and come over and join us! You've got until January 31st to complete any or all of the sketches for your chance to win a gift from Tiffany's Etsy Shop.

Sketches in Thyme Take #66

2012-01-16T20:01:00.000-08:00

This week's sketch at Sketches in Thyme was fun to use! I love circles and had a great time playing with this sketch! Here it is:

And here is my take on it using Echo Park's new Christmas line:

Come on over and play along with us! We have a new sketch every week and would love to see you there!

Memorable Seasons Tradition Challenge

2011-12-21T08:20:00.000-08:00

This week it's my turn to issue a challenge at Memorable Seasons. With this time of year, we have a lot of traditions that I've carried on from when I was a child. So my challenge to you:

Create a layout showcasing one tradition you have in your family. It can revolve around a holiday, it can be food related, it can be anything as long as it's a tradition.

Here is my example of a tradition started by my mom. For valentine's day she always made us a big heart shaped sugar cookie and we could decorate it any way we wanted and then eat it anytime we wanted. Fun memories that she know carries on with my kids.

So come join us and if you complete this and post it by December 31st, your name will go into a drawing for our montly GC.

Sketches in Thyme Take #63

2011-12-21T08:10:00.000-08:00

Over at Sketches in Thyme, we have 2 of our 3 sketches posted and the last one will post tomorrow. Be sure and stop by to check them out and you could win a fabulous kit from Memorable Seasons, a personal favorite of mine!

Here is this week's sketch:

And here is my take:

Memorable Seasons Design Team Call

2011-12-12T22:30:00.000-08:00

I've been a bad blogger lately but I'm here with some exciting news! At Memorable Seasons, we are looking for one new Design Team Member. It could be you that we're looking for. So be sure and come visit us, introduce yourself and apply. What have you got to lose? You can get more complete information at our blog. Applications are due December 31st. I look forward to seeing who applies! We'd love to have you join us!

Sketches In Thyme Take #60

2011-11-17T08:27:00.000-08:00

My first layout for Sketches in Thyme went live today. Here is this week's sketch:

I found these photos of the Ruby slippers from our DC trip last fall and knew they were perfect for this sketch. I had to make some red glitter words so I die cut some red glitter foam. Here's my take:

Christmas Craft Time

2011-11-16T07:59:00.000-08:00

A month or so ago I came across a darling project from Leslie Ashe. I decided I must give it a try. Usually I'm one that sees fun ideas but rarely make them. Well at Memorable Seasons, we are sharing each Wednesday from now until Christmas a Christmas craft to help inspire you. This week it's my turn. So I pulled out last years Echo Park line and got to work. The trick is to figure out the order of your paper and then once you have the length figured out, cut it at that length and the width is 2". Roll up your paper gluing it to seal the paper tube closed and once you have it all laid out the way you want just glue them down to the canvas. I created a dimensional star and popdotted it for the top and then added buttons and brads for my ornaments. I decided I wanted to add a frame using one of my border punches. So if you're like me and see crafts you like but rarely make, give this a try. If you create a project(not a layout or card) using rolled paper your name will go into the monthly draw at Memorable Seasons. I'd love to have you link back here so I can see what you create.

Recipe Challenge at MS

2011-11-11T07:05:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies...it's my turn to issue a challenge over at Memorable Seasons. So with it being close to Thanksgiving I thought a recipe challenge was perfect. So with that in mind here is the recipe for you to follow:

* Scalloped Edge
* 2 Photos
* At least 3 leaves (they can be any kind or size)
* banner
*a pinch of sewing/stitching

Just like with any recipe, you can add any additional "seasonings" to it to spice it up but you must you the ingredients listed above.

Here is my layout using this recipe:

And if you're interested, here is a link to how I made this simple banner using a border punch.

I'm excited to see what you cook up with this recipe!

Yay! I made it!

2011-11-08T06:42:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share some good news today. I made it on the Sketches in Thyme Design Team! I love their sketches and am thrilled to have been chosen!

You can see the announcement here.

Just wanted to share my exciting news! Be sure and come by and play along. I'd love to see your take each week!

Sketches in Thyme Design Team Call

2011-10-31T17:45:00.000-07:00

Sketches in Thyme is having a Design Team Call. I decided to go ahead and give it a try as I love their sketches!!! Here is the sketch:

And here is my take on the sketch. Love this picture of my dd and her friend. I used the Crate Paper Random line.

So go post your take on this sketch and if not be sure and join in the fun over at Sketches in Thyme!

Memorable Seasons Card Challenges

2011-10-17T07:03:00.001-07:00

Over at Memorable Seasons we're having a month long card making event. Twice a week there are new challenges posted to connect you to your inner card maker. I finally found some energy and motivation and created several cards for the challenges.

Telah challenged us to choose a sketch from September Page Maps and create 3 different cards with it, making each one a little different than the others. Fun challenge. Here is the card I chose to be inspired by:

And here are my 3 cards:

And Tammy challenged us to scraplift a card from our gallery. I chose this card from Carol:

Be sure and come by and play along with the many challenges this month! We'd love to have you join us!

Season of Change

2011-10-17T06:46:00.000-07:00

At Sketchy Thursday, they have a sketch up to use to try out to be a GDT. I figured...why not try. So I took this sketch and turned it upside down. The other requirements we had to include: a gratitude list and at least 5 leaves.

I also included a challenge from Scrap-Friendzy to scrap a challenge I have overcome (letting my daugther go away to college is one of the hardest things I've had to do). I was also inspired by the card sketch below, a challenge at Memorable Seasons to let the sketch inspire you. Hence the rounded corners and the horizontal strip.

A Second challenge at Memorable Seasons is to use this sketch to create a card. Since I'm not a big card maker I love having a sketch to get me started. I pulled out some Basic Grey scraps and created this card. Check out the Card Event we have going on this month at Memorable Seasons.

Scraplift and Frosted Designs Recipe

2011-10-12T08:26:00.001-07:00

At Memorable Seasons we have a Member we spotlight each month. We then go to their gallery and scraplift one of their layouts. Laura Cushman is our MOTM for October and I scraplifted her commuting layout. Plus while I was at it I thought I'd throw in a fun recipe challenge from Frosted Designs. They listed 8 items and we had to choose four. I chose flowers, buttons, stickers and ribbon/lace. The balloons and letters are Glitz Stickers designed to go with this papers. I love a great challenge!

Memorable Seasons DT Challenge

2011-10-04T17:53:00.000-07:00

This month at Memorable Seasons, we are going to do challenges to focus on cards. I got to be the first challenge this month and I chose to provide a wonderful sketch from Let's Scrap that can be used as a card or a layout.

So my challenge this month is to use this sketch to create a layout, a card or both. If you do both your name will go into a drawing for a RAK from me.

Here is what I created using this sketch. I used more of my Jillibean Sweet & Sour collection

Come on over and join in the fun! We'll have two challenges posted each week.

HELP Please!!!

2011-10-03T18:50:00.000-07:00

Hello...I need help. I decided to try for a card contest at Practical Scrappers. I'm not a huge card creator but when I do I always seem to enjoy it. So I gave it try and I made it through for this first round of voting. What I didn't realize is that it's a "vote"-type contest. So if you don't mind, will you please go here and vote for me. You can vote up for 3 each day and your votes are confidential. Here are the official rules. Thank you!!!

Memorable Seasons October DT Projects

2011-10-03T18:15:00.000-07:00

At Memorable Seasons, this month, I got a really fun kit. I chose it because I've never worked with Jillibean products and wanted to challenge myself. I got the Sweet & Sour kit and LOVED it! I had a very fun time playing with the products and colors. I think I fell in love to be honest. Here are the projects I completed using this line.

I made this card using scraps from this kit. I used my quickutz die for the petals and then handstitched around each one. I thought this was a fun card to created!
When I saw this kit I thought of a grid using all the different papers. The little heart one just screamed teen girl. Then I used several of the die cuts to create a cluster.
Then I wanted to show the versatility of this line by focusing on a boy line. There was also a fun orange I could have added to this for a boy as well. I love versatile lines! The die cuts are must buy for me from now on as they have so many fun elements.

This last one was one of my favorites! My daughter is a creative writer and with all the typewriters and papers with alphabets I thought this would be perfect for this line. So I chose one of senior photos and scrapped this detail about her.

Well...that's it for this month. Be sure and check out the other DT members and what they created.

Month Long Sketch Contest at My Scraps & More

2011-09-29T13:46:00.000-07:00

Hi ladies! I thought I'd share with you a contest I came across today. It's for a month long contest at My Scraps & More where they post a sketch each week day. I'm not sure if I'll be able to get them all done but am thinking it will be a great place to find continuous inspiration. Come on over and check it out!

Scrap Retreat Layouts

2011-09-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

Twice a year I go and attend a Scrapbook Retreat up in the mountains. I truly look forward to getting away and reconnecting with all my scrappy friends. Last weekend was our get-away and I loved every minute of it. With 20 women getting together, you never quite know what to expect. But this time it was so peaceful. Plus, I got 11 layouts complete. Wow! I had a great time and thought I'd show a few of them to you. Of course, I almost always scrap using some sort of challenge so I'll try to remember to include those as we go.

The first one is using a Sketches in Thyme. It's a very simple one...way more simple than I usually do but the photos aren't a big event. More of a small detail.

This next one is using 2 challenges. The first is a sketch from Let's Capture These Sketches #99. Loved it! And then I combined it with Tracy's challenge at Memorable Seasons to use the letters of a show you like for your layout. I chose Top Chef. I used t=tiny alphas o-oval, p-patterned paper, c-coral cardstock, h-heart, e-embossed (my butterflies are embossed), and f-flower. Fun challenge.

The next layout I created was using a sketch from My Sketch World. These photos are from a few years ago when we learned how to make rag quilts. So fun!

The next layout is using a sketch from Let's Scrap These Sketches #98. Loved it for this photo of my dd on her graduation day. Plus I was so excited because I found i-rock studs in her school colors so I added them around the edges of the scallops. This also works for a challenge at Global Scrappers where we're to scrap an important day in the lives of our "girls". I still can't believe she's all grown up! Oh and I used this sketch for the 3rd week challenge at Sketches in Thyme where you get to pick your own sketch.

This next one is created using a sketch (I know shock right?!LOL) from Creative Scrappers #173. It's a very simple layout but at least I'm in my scrapbooks now and then.

This last one is one of my favorites. It's for a challenge at Global Scrappers using a sketch from Page Maps. I came across a bunch of photos of my dd with her friends and have had a good time scrapping her. I really do miss her and am thankful to have photos of her. I guess I should work on my others kids too. Oh...and this is also for a challenge at Memorable Seasons to use a song as your title. I kept getting the tune of "Best of Friends" from Fox and the Hound (an old Disney movie).

Well...that's it for now. I'll come back and share more later. Thanks for taking a look!

Scrapbooking From Scratch

2011-09-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

While I was visiting StuckSketches I came across a post about a website doing a month long challenge where they post a sketch every day. I love sketches so I just had to go and check it out. It did take me awhile to figure out that it is an Australian site called Scrapbooking From Scratch. I decided that I just might need to give this challenge a try. With the 17 hour time difference I'm not sure I'll have any chance of actually completing a challenge on the actual day but I'm having fun. I have completed 3 sketches so far.

One is the same layout below called Sister and Friends.

The second one is from one of the members there and I used it to help me with Carol's and Jennifer's challenges from Memorable Seasons. It's the pink layout called Strike a Pose.

The last one is this one from Sassy Lil' Sketches:

and here is my take on it:

Be sure and come check out their challenges. I figure if nothing else I'll have a lot of layouts complete when I'm done.

Memorable Seasons Members Crop

2011-09-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

At Memorable Seasons, we've been enjoying a crop where the members do the challenges. There have been some amazing challenges and though I couldn't get to all of them, I did get a few done.

One challenge was from Carol to Embrace the Negative using negative space and I actually combined that with Jennifer's Grunge it Up challenge. This is what I came up with:

Patricia issued a very unique challenge and to be honest one that scared me a little. You had to go into your stash, close your eyes and pick out 3 papers and use them together on a layout. I held my breath each time I reached in but I lucked out as all three of mine weren't bad together. Here is what I created using those 3 papers.

And Kimmer issued a summer challenge. To create a layout using those summer photos. Since I don't have this year's photos even printed, I picked some leftovers from a few years back and came up with this layout using a Let's Scrap sketch.

Today is the last day of the crop and to be honest I'm kind of sad last week didn't go better so I could get more of them done. Thanks ladies for a wonderful crop!

Monochromatic and a little Sassy

2011-08-09T12:50:00.001-07:00

I saw this sketch from Sassy Lil' Sketches and then a challenge at Let's Scrap and knew I wanted to combine the two.

The challenge at Let's Scrap was to create a monochromatic layout, 1o buttons or brads, at least one flower, and thread.

Weekend Challenges

2011-08-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

I was able to sneak in a little bit of time to scrap this weekend. I participated in a few challenges - oh how I love challenges. Here is what I created:

First, I combined 3 challenges into one layout: I used a sketch challenge posted at Global Scrappers, a recipe challenge at Scrap-Friendzy, and I pagerized a layout idea to use tickets on my layout from Scrap Our Stash. Here is what I came up with:

Tomorrow is my Dad's birthday and I needed to make a card so I chose a Sketch from Sassy Lil' Sketches to try. It's a little bit busy for me but I think he'll like it.

Here's the sketch:

And here is the card I created.

I hope each of you have a fun week ahead! I'm pretty excited as I leave for Hawaii! yay!

Frosted Designs and Memorable Seasons

2011-08-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

Frosted Designs has a fun sketch challenge going on. I loved this sketch and just knew I had to play along! Here's the sketch:

Then at Memorable Seasons, Tami challenged us to create a layout using our school colors. Mine were green and yellow. This green isn't exact but I couldn't find the right shade in my stash. Here is what I created:

Memorable Seasons August DT Kit

2011-08-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

I can't believe today is August 1st! With it being the first of the month, it's the day for our Design Team Reveals at Memorable Seasons. Jill sent me the Bo Bunny Liberty line. Here is what I created.

And better yet...the whole line is 30% off. Here is a link to it in the store.

Exciting News

2011-08-01T18:34:00.000-07:00

I am very challenge driven when I scrap. Whether it be a sketch, a recipe challenge..you name it I get very inspired by them. When I saw the Red, White and Blue challenge at Scrap Our Stash I knew I had to give it a try. I used a Let's Scrap sketch and got to work. The challenge was that I kept finding Red, white and cream but no white so I pulled out my Echo Park Dots & Stripes line and got to work.

Here's what I created:

I saw today that I was one of 2 winners to be invited to be a Guest DT member in September. I have to say, it made my day. Thanks for letting me share my exciting news!

Sketches in Thyme & Memorable Seasons LSS

2011-07-21T09:42:00.001-07:00

I finally got my layout done for the Memorable Seasons Last Scrapper Standing Week 5. We had to do the following criteria:

1. photo with no face or face parts.

2. Use one color medium and they can't be markers

3. Add 2 textures to layout that aren't paper, chipboard or ribbon.

I used Sketch #51 from Sketches in Thyme as my inspiration.

Here's my take on these challenges:

Memorable Seasons Color Challenge and More

2011-07-21T08:35:00.000-07:00

Today I issued a color challenge at Memorable Seasons to use her banner colors as inspiration which are orange, light aqua, dark aqua, green and white. You can also add a neutral. Be sure and check it out here.

And here is my layout:

Here are a few other layouts I created this last week for different challenges on different boards:
I created this one using Crate Paper Restoration line (a line I loved and then never use or seem to have a hard time using). This layout is inspired by a challenge at Scrap-Friendzy to lift a layout by Leslie Ashe. Plus I combined it with a challenge at Global Scrappers to scrap about your mom using 2 descriptive words for her. I had fun with this challenge!
This is for another challenge at Global Scrappers. It is a sketch challenge and I loved it. Plus I used some of my leftovers from my DT kit at Memorable Seasons using the Cosmo Cricket Odds& Ends line. I even used a doily my grandma crocheted for me.
I used a Let's Scrap sketch for this and did double duty with this layout. One challenge at Let's Scrap to Use Your Stash was to do a red/white/blue layout using only those colors, chipboard somewhere in your title(Our), and 10 buttons. Then I found a fun site called Scrap Our Stash from Joni and it had a similar challenge to use Red/White and Blue. So I created this for both challenges.

Memorable Seasons Design Team

2011-06-09T22:57:00.000-07:00

I just have to share my very exciting news....

I was chosen to be a part of the Memorable Seasons Design Team!!!

I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am for this opportunity! For years MS has been one of my favorite places to be and to be chosen to be added to the DT is very exciting! Jill, the owner, has created such an amazing site with incredible products in her store...not to mention her incredible sales which she one going on right now called a Celebration Sale. You really should check it out. And then add on such amazing members and DT members who wouldn't want to be more involved?! Anyway...thanks to Jill and her DT for chosing me to join them! I hope to do them proud!

I just wanted to share my exciting news.

The Scrappiest and The Sweet Peach Crop Shop

2011-06-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Liz, at the Scrappiest, always has fun sketches to play with. This time I decided to do one she created for The Sweet Peach Crop Shop.

Here is the sketch she created:

And here is my layout using this sketch. It's more of my Paris photos from last year.

Be sure and check out more of Liz's great sketches at her blog.

Trend Watch Challenge

2011-06-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

It's the first week of the month already and it's time for the new challenges at Challenge Masters. Mine is the Trend Watch challenge and this month I decided to focus on the trend of butterflies. I see them everywhere and we're seeing them more and more from the manufacturers. Add that to the amazing choices of dies cuts and cartridges that are available with all the many sizes and styles, and you've got many options to find butterflies. So this month's challenge is:

Use at least 3 butterflies on your layout and using pp with butterflies on it doesn't count. Other than that, have fun.

Oh, and to add an optional challenge if you're willing to accept it: use newsprint somewhere on your layout. That is another fun trend that is big out right now. You'll see what I used newsprint when I cut out one of my butterflies.

Here is my layout as an example and you'll see I used a lot of butterflies in several sizes:

I look forward to seeing what you create! Be sure and check out all the other challenges posted this week at Challenge Masters! So many fun challenges I'm sure you'll find several that will interest you.

Challenge Masters

2011-03-31T22:09:00.000-07:00

With it being the end of the month, leave it to me to run late getting layouts posted. My favorite that I worked on was the Scraplift challenge. It used a bracket shaped paper and the challenge was to make our own. Here's mine. I loved this challenge! Be sure and come on over and check out our new challenges posted Sunday!

The Scrappiest and The Paper Trail

2011-03-31T22:06:00.000-07:00

I like Liz's sketches over at The Scrappiest and enjoyed using 109 for this layout of my son and new niece. Thanks Liz! I also combined it with a challenge at The Paper Trail to use 3 photos, 3 pp's, and 3 in my journaling.

Challenge Masters Color and Sketch Challenges

2011-03-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Today is the day for the new sketch challenge over at Challenge Masters. There are several other challenges new today as well. Be sure and check them out here.

For this month's sketch I chose one that was posted last spring at my favorite online site: Memorable Seasons and it was designed by Let's Scrap's owner, Cheri.

And here is my example layout:

Last week I posted the color challenge as well. The challenge is to use Dark Blue/Cream and Tan on your project. No other colors though...just different shades of the 3. Here is the inspiration piece:

And here is my layout:

Be sure and come over and see what other fun challenges have been issued this month. You have until the end of March to get them uploaded. I can't wait to see what you create!

Scrapbook Throwdown and a sketch challenge

2011-02-04T22:49:00.000-08:00

Memorable Seasons is having a Scrapbook Throwdown for the next 7 weeks. Click the link to see more about it. This week's challenge was issued by Telah to create a layout with clean lines,centered and balanced and then add 3 matted photos in a row, lots of inked edges and a border punch.

Here is my take on this challenge:

This is also based off of sketch 104 from The Scrappiest

Impromptu Challenge at Challenge Masters

2011-02-04T09:11:00.000-08:00

With the challenges not posted at Challenge Masters until Sunday I thought it would be fun to post an impromptu challenge. Be sure and come over to check it out. It involves this:

You'll have until the end of February to complete for extra draws for the prize this month or if you get it created and posted by midnight Saturday the 5th, your name will also go into a drawing for a small RAK from me. Can't wait to see what you create!

Challenge Masters DT Search

2011-02-04T08:35:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies...just wanted to let you know that over at Challenge Masters, we're looking for a few new DT members. We'd love to have you come and apply. If you're interested, email Terri, the owner at terri@challengemastersonline.com. I'd love to have some friends come on over and join us! We've got a lot in the works at CM and would love to have you with us! Also, don't forget that our new challenges start this Sunday. Come check us out!

Sweets

2011-02-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

I just had to tell all of you about this darling new line from one of my favorite websites. Memorable Seasons now has their own line called Sweets...amazing hand crocheted flowers and doilies. This is an exclusive for them. Julie, one of the gals that works for Jill(the owner) makes these herself. I love these! Let's just say the cute factor is very high! Here's a photo of my two favorites:

The Scrappiest

2011-01-30T21:46:00.000-08:00

I have seen Liz's sketches for years. She's also a regular at Memorable Seasons. She posted that she's celebrating her 100th sketch this week at her blog The Scrappiest. So I she's got a sketch a day for this week. I decided it would be fun to play along.

Here are my layouts:

For sketch 100:

Sketch 101:

Sketch 102:

It was fun to use a different style and am so happy with the results. Thanks, Liz, for some fun sketches. I've 2 more to work on to finish all 5.

Challenge Masters Blog Hop

2011-01-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

It's finally time to get this party started!

Love is in the air and the Challenge Master Divas are celebrating by having a blog hop! The hop is going to run from Friday January 28th until Sunday January 30th. We have lots of prizes, fun and inspiration for you this weekend. This should be your second stop along the way. If you have arrived from Tammy's Blog you are on the right track. If you just got here than you need to head here to get started.

All of the Divas are creating love inspired projects for you to enjoy. We also each have a word for a secret phrase. You need to stop by each blog and collect the words (they are all jumbled so you will need to visit each one) and once you have unscrambled them, send the phrase to tealeaf@shaw.ca to be entered to win one of the two grand prizes. We each have a small blog prize as well so you want to make sure that you stop by all the blogs and leave us some love, so that you have multiple chances to win!

Another way to win, is to create your own love inspired project and remember it can be anything you love (a person, a place, a thing, a hobby..whatever love means to you) and upload it to the Challenge Master’s Gallery in the forum. You will have until Sunday February 13th to enter your projects and then after careful deliberation a winner will be announced on our challenge blog! The grand prize winner will receive a great prize pack donated by our Stash & Tag Diva Tammy! You don’t want to miss out on this so start creating! You can enter as many times as you wish as long as you create new projects each time.

An additional way to win is to create a card, layout, mini album or whatever you choose with the theme, "What I like/love about...and you fill in the blank). If you complete this challenge and leave me a comment here by midnight January 30th, then your name will go into a drawing for a RAK from me. If you choose to follow my blog, I would love it but it is not required.

Here is my project. I created a mini album/card for my husband, which I created from some really big black tags. I left it blank as there are many personal things I put in it. Now it's your turn...show me what you've got. And it can be about anything you love or like.

Thanks for stopping by on our blog hop! Oh, and by the way, my word for the hop is Away.

Now you're off to Liz's blog for some more creative love!

Challenge Masters Love is in the Air Blog Hop

2011-01-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

I wanted to let you know about our upcoming Blog Hop for Challenge Masters. It will be loads of fun so be sure and stop by. I can't wait! Here is a little bit more about it:

Love is in the air and the Challenge Master Divas are celebrating by having a blog hop! The hop is going to run from Friday January 28th until Sunday January 30th. We have lots of prizes, fun and inspiration for you this weekend.

6 months later....

2011-01-20T08:53:00.000-08:00

Wow my friends...it's been a long time since I posted anything. Let's just say life got crazy and scrapping took a back seat for awhile. But luckily all that has changed! I have scrapped a ton this month thanks to many great sites that have inspired me to create! I'll share a few of my favorites:

Amazing Blog Candy

2010-07-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun blog that has quite the blog candy. Thought I'd share it with my friends so you can have a chance to win.

Plus she's giving this away as well:

Simply Obsessed Just Beachy Crop

2010-07-20T20:17:00.001-07:00

I saw on Scrap Scene that Simply Obsessed is doing a fun crop this week. Be sure and check it out. I'm hoping to participate. I love a good challenge - it keeps me scrapping. I'd love to see my friends there with me.

Challenges Challenges Challenges

2010-07-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

I've been hunting around and finding some really fun challenges this month. I thought I'd share some of them with you.

This first one was my layout for the Last Scrapper Standing at Memorable Seasons. Unfortunately I didn't move on for this round but wanted to challenge myself anyway. It's not my favorite layout but it's done...LOL.

And here's one I combined for three challenges (I love being productive)
The first challenge was at Challenge Masters for the One Little Word which was Party.
The 2nd is I used Sketch73 from The Scrappiest. The 3rd challenge was Dixie Pieces challenge to create a birthday layout of me as a child.

And last but not least...a challenge at a site I just discovered call Treasured Scrapbooking. It was a challenge to use a sketch and create this card in black and cream.
Here's a link to the sketch

And here's my card:

Be sure and check these challenges and many more at each site. Thanks for looking.

Ch{all}enge Masters Color Challenge

2010-07-16T12:16:00.000-07:00

For this month's Color Challenge at Ch{all}enge Masters I found this great ad that just screamed summer:

So you need to use orange/lime green/aqua/purple. You can add neutrals but the main part of the layout needs to be these 4 colors. Here is my layout:

Be sure and come check out all of the great challenges this month. They're due July 31st. Can't wait to see what you come up with.

Paris Photos

2010-07-15T23:10:00.001-07:00

I finally got some of my Paris photos developed and was so in the mood to scrap tonight. I actually combined three challenges into this layout. Here's the layout:

The first challenge is from Challenge Masters and it was "to take one photo & cut it into squares, the size you cut is up to you. Then take those squares & glue them onto your LO in a grid (at least 4 squares). " Plus it has a point system so I masked and used several items for that.

The 2nd Challenge as I used sketch #72 from The Scrappiest and rotated it a turn. It was perfect for my photo and pp's I wanted to use. It's a little hard to see in the photo but I did stitch a circle in cream. I probably should have done it with black thread but too late.

The 3rd challenge is from Backporch Memories. It was a recipe challenge:
1. flower(s)
2. rub-on(s)
3. brad(s)
4. at least 4 patterned papers
5. fiber (ribbon/thread/twine - something like that)
I had fun making sure everything was on the layout and really do think it helped me "complete" my layout.

Be sure and stop by each of the sites to participate in the challenges there. Thanks for letting me share.

Last Scrapping Standing Entry Week 4

2010-07-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

Yay! I made it another week! This week's challenge was definitely that for me. I was very stressed when I saw and my mind wouldn't stop thinking so I thought I'd get it done and over with. The challenge is:
"You can scrap any subject matter you choose, BUT... You must use a solid color background paper and create some sort of pattern using a household item.
Example: USe white cardstock and bubble wrap with paint to create the background.
Use kraft cardstock and dip paper clips in paint/stamp pab to create the background.

Get the idea? Toilet paper tubes, potatoes, a kid's toy, a paper bag, there are TONS of possibilities, just be sure that the image you ink, paint, stamp, etc is a noticeable part of the Layout!!"

Once I started thinking and looking through drawers I came up with the idea of using paper re-enforcers. I experimented for at least an hour trying to come up with the best way and liked the look of the mist. I liked the idea of a little bit grungier of a look with the challenge. It really was a lot of fun thinking outside the box. You should go to Memorable Seasons and try it this week to get your name in a drawing for a gift certificate.

Anyway...here's my layout.

Last Scrapper Standing Week 2 and 3

2010-07-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

Last Scrapper Standing is still going on over at Memorable Seasons. I am very grateful that I have managed to stay in the contest thus far. There is amazing talent there and I feel blessed to still be in the running. Voting will start Monday after 3pm. I think you have to vote for your favorite 5 layouts.

This week's challenge is to use white space and have a cluster. I'm not the best at white space layouts but here is my take on the challenge. This photo is of me and my older sister when we were young.

And here's a close up of my cluster:

Last week's challenge was to use black as your background and to create at least 2 flowers to use. Here is my layout for last week. I love this photo of Skye.

Challenge Masters Summer Lovin' Contest

2010-06-22T18:46:00.000-07:00

Over at Challenge Masters, they're having a contest that lasts for 4 weeks. I thought it would be fun to have each of you join us. Here is the information on it:

Summertime & the livin is easy..... are you ready to be challenged???
are you ready for some FUN?????
Well then you won't want to miss this our first contest here @ Ch{all}enge Masters!!!!!!

I suppose you want details, yes?
OK This will run for four (4) weeks, starting the 1st Sunday in July. July 4th I will post a challenge for you & then every Sunday there will be a new challenge the last challenge will be July 25th. You will have 1 week to do each challenge. The Challenge will have to be posted the following Saturday in the gallery under the summer lovin' contest by midnight EST.
You will be awarded points & there will be a panel of judges from the DT. If there is a tie we will do a random drawing.

Would you like to know what the winner will receive??
Terri has graciously offer a $25.00 GC to the winners choice of on-line store & a Guest Diva spot!!!!!
I will send the runner - up a scrapping kit!

So if your interested for a little fun & to kick off the start of summer, just sign up here.
Sign - ups will end July 2nd.

So stop on over and get signed up. I can't wait for the challenges to begin!

Last Scrapper Standing Entry

2010-06-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

What a fun challenge! This week's challenge at Memorable Seasons was to create a layout based off of this theme: An American Child

I was a little baffled at first then thought of a "blue-eyed" photo. I found one of my favorite photos from when my son was a baby and decided to use that. I had a wonderful time creating this! Here is my entry

I love this paper line and felt it worked best with this photo. I created my title from recycled corrugated cardboard that came in the box of my new bookshelf. I cut them with my QK Revolution. I loved the results. Be sure and go check out the contest. You have until tomorrow at 3p.m to get it in. Then be sure and go back and place your vote. And while you're there be sure and check out the sale in the store. Jill, the owner, always has great sales.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

Today is Father's Day, the day we set aside to honor those special men in our lives. I'd like to say Happy Father's Day to my Dad, my Father in Law and my sweet husband. I can't imagine how different my life would be without them in my life. Love you all! Be sure and share your love and feelings for those men in your life who have made a difference. Here are a few cards I created for these great men:

Challenge Masters Design Team Call

2010-06-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd post and let each of you know of a Design Team call over at Challenge Masters - a site dedicated to challenges. I enjoy being a part of things there and thought you might like it as well. I'd love to see you all apply! Here are the details:

Ch{all}enge Masters {http://www.challengemastersonline.com/} is looking for new Design Divas! The term will run from July 2010 thru December 2010. If chosen, you will be responsible for issuing your first challenge in July!

I am also looking for someone to help secure sponsors for us & someone to be our PR person! If interested in either of those spots, please let me know with your application.

Here are the Design Diva requirements/Guidelines:

* Post 1 new challenge on the assigned date each month along with an example for your challenge.

* Be an active presence in our gallery, making sure at the very least that you leave a comment on each of your category's submissions.

* To be an active presence in our forums on a daily basis. You will be required to initiate a minimum of one new topic on a weekly basis & to make our members feel welcome. We focus on having fun while providing inspiration for our members!!!!

* To proudly display your Design Diva Badge on your blog & in your sig lines at other sites (as allowed) & to help promote Ch{all}enge Masters however/wherever possible.

* Check the Design Diva group for posts containing important information or requiring your response on a daily basis.

* If you have stuff going on in your life or are going on vacation, please contact me ASAP to let me know!

* Since there is no compensation for your design duties, you are eligible to participate in all of our challenges to win the prize each month!!! Please play along as much as you'd like!

To apply, please send a link to your blog and/or main gallery to: terri@challengemastersonline.com. Also please include your full name & email address. Submissions will be accepted until June 30th, 2010. Please include your top 3 choices for which groups you would like to lead! Current Ch{all}enge Master team members are welcome to re-apply! Thank you & I can’t wait to see all the submissions!

Last Scrapper Standing

2010-06-11T07:55:00.000-07:00

Memorable Seasons is having a Last Scrapper Standing Contest starting Sunday, June 13th. I missed this last year and am really hoping to be able to participate in it this time around. Here are the details about what it is and the fabulous grand prize (which secretly I'd love to win so I can get those fab Tim Holtz Dies)

Memorable Seasons announces the second annual Last Scrapper Standing contest to begin on June 13. It is a fast paced, challenge based contest where members will vote for their favorites to survive each week. The final winner will be announced on July 28. Grand prize will be the winner’s choice of a Sizzix Big Shot or a Spellbinder’s Wizard. You must be a registered member to participate and to vote so get signed up today!

So come on over to Memorable Seasons and get registered. Then be on the lookout for the contest to begin. Can't wait to see all of you there!

Combined Challenges

2010-05-18T19:30:00.001-07:00

I love challenges and it's even better when you can combine a few. Here are my latest that I've accomplished.
This one is for Let's Scrap's Blog Hop #6 to scraplift a layout combined with the recipe challenge from Challenge Masters.

And here's Let's Scrap Blog Hop #8 to create a travel layout using a travel quote provided. Plus I combined it with the May One Little Word Challenge at Challenge Masters.

Be sure and finish up all of your layouts for our blog hop challenges at Let's Scrap. It goes until the 22nd of May.

Challenge Master's May Color Challenge

2010-05-08T23:47:00.000-07:00

It's time for this month's Color Challenge over at Challenge Masters. Here is the ad that inspired me this month for this challenge:

And here is my layout for this challenge. I just loved this ad!

Come on over and join in this challenge as well as the many others and be entered into the monthly drawing for a prize pack. There's always a great challenge at Challenge Masters.

Let's Scrap Blog Hop

2010-05-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to my very 1st blog hop. And to be doing with all my friends at Let's Scrap is so cool! So be sure and keep on reading to find out all about it!

This is the 5th stop on the Let's Scrap Design Team Blog Hop! Below you will find my challenge to you using one of the great Let's Scrap sketches(sketch Feb2). All you have to do is complete this challenge, upload it to the Let's Scrap gallery with the tag "bloghop5", become a follower of my blog and link your layout below. At the end of the Blog Hop on May 21, 2010, I will randomly select one of you to receive a small prize package. But that's not IT!! Keep hopping through the blogs....there are 10 of us playing along. Complete the challenges at EVERY stop on the blog within the next two weeks and your name will be entered into a random drawing for a $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE to A Cherry On Top Scrapbook Store. And the best part....you have TWO FULL WEEKS to complete your challenges and when all is said and done you will have 10 projects completed and a chance at some great prizes!!

Let's get this hop started!! Remember, to become a follower and return to leave a comment after completing each challenge. Good luck, and have fun!!!!

1. Susan
2. Cori
3. Deb
4. Jean
5. Sally - YOU ARE HERE
6. Rosalie
7. Scarlett
8. Carolina
9. Nana
10. Kristie

Now here's my challenge to you:

For this challenge, I thought it appropriate to incorporate Let's Scrap and listed a scrap item to use starting with each letter. You challenge is to create a layout using the following:

L - Lace
E - Epoxy - brads, stickers, etc. You can use pre-made or even make your own.
T - Tag
S - Single layout

S - Sketch your choice from Let's Scrap(click on the link to see sketches)
C - Chipboard
R - Ribbon
A - Alphabet stickers or rubons
P - Punch - border or shape

Here's my layout that I created for this challenge:

And at the end of the blog hop, I'll put all of the names of those who complete my challenge and post a link in Mr. Linky below with their layout. One lucky winner will win this "sweet" prize.

So Let's Scrap and show me what you can create!

National Scrapbook Day Coming Fast!!!

2010-04-29T07:24:00.001-07:00

At Let's Scrap, we're going to celebrate National Scrapbook Day throughout the month. On Saturday there will be a few challenges and then we're having a blog hop. Be sure and come over and check things out!

Challenge Masters Design Team

2010-04-05T19:24:00.001-07:00

I'm excited because I made it on the Challenge Master's Design Team! Right before I left for Paris, I got an email inviting me to be their Color Challenge Diva. I'm very excited to be a part of this team! A different set of challenges are posted every Sunday - the color challenge will be posted every 2nd Sunday. I love challenges as they force me outside my box. Can't wait to get my first one color challenge created so I can post it on Sunday. Be sure and check out the site. You won't regret it! Wahoo!

March Color Challenge

2010-03-03T20:59:00.001-08:00

Okay ladies...here's this month's challenge. This month we're going to do a color challenge. Use this ad to inspire the colors you use on your layout.

And here is the layout I created with it. In person the color is red not this pinkish hue. DD was so mad when she saw that I scrapped these photos of her. I told her too bad, she'll appreciate them and laugh at them when she's older. She said she will always be mad I scrapped them. Oh well...

You have until April 5th (since I'll be in Paris at the end of the month) to accomplish this and post a link to it here and your name will go into a drawing for a RAK from me. Can't wait to see what you create!

Let's Scrap Weekly sketch and the March Challenge

2010-03-03T20:38:00.000-08:00

Here is this week's sketch at Let's Scrap:

And here is my take on it. I just did the left side this month. I also combined it with Kristie's challenge to use a technique you've always wanted to try but have never done. I made 2 of the flowers and they were new techniques for me.

Cheri, at Let's Scrap is having a challenge through the month of March. She has some older sketches that are single layouts and she wants you to scrap 5 of them but the challenge is to create the other side of the layout to make it a double layout. For those that do five of them in the month of March, you will have your name in a drawing for a kit from one of our sponsors. I think it sounds like fun! I just hope I have time to get them all done. Come on over and give them a try. I look forward to seeing your work!

February's Winner is.....

2010-03-01T06:25:00.000-08:00

Carrie

and

Nicole

Thanks Carrie and Nicole for playing along with me this month! I hope you'll continue to do so. Since there were 2 of you that played and just because I feel like it, you both win! Be sure and send me your full name and address at cranney@cableone.net and I'll send you both a little something! Thanks again for participating.

Scrapbook Throwdown Week 2

2010-02-28T17:01:00.001-08:00

This week's challenge at Memorable Seasons is this:
This Weeks Challenge is we are going to be making "Fruit Salad " Cards

You need to make 4 different cards using the recipe for the fruit salad ...you need to at least use two different fruits per card (you can use more!!!) and you can only use one fruit on two different cards. All the cards should be different using the different fruit elements and each card should each have a title..thanks for playing along!!!
Banana -ribbon
Orange- circle
Apple- heart
Cherry- stickles/ glitter
Blueberries- hole punch
Grapefruit- big circle (meaning circle card)
Pear- stamp
Strawberries- leaves
Pineapple- border punch

And the titles have to be food related.

At first I was a little worried of what I could use for my sentiments but with a little thought I finally came up with a few. Then I went into my stash to see if I owned any fruity papers or embellies. I had a few and then went to Archivers and found a few more. Here are my cards for this challenge:

This card I used a sketch from Let's Scrap.

Come on over and try it out. They have a drawing every week for one participant to receive a prize.

Memorable Seasons Scrapbook Throwdown

2010-02-23T22:50:00.000-08:00

Over at Memorable Seasons, they're having a 4 week contest called Scrapbook Throwdown. They post a weekly challenge and you submit your layout/project to go along with it. Here is this last week's challenge:
Here is your first Recipe Challenge. Today, we are serving up Wedding Cake!
Your "Wedding Cake" layouts must include pictures about a wedding event of any sort. If you are lacking this main ingredient in your cupboards, then you may substitute any photos of close relationships instead. Your recipes must also include the following ingredients:
Something old-this can be old photos, old products or you may use distressing/inking for an older look
Something new-this can be new products or new techniques
Something Borrowed-this can mean that you borrowed tools to complete your layout or that you used a sketch/scraplifted someone else
Something Blue-Exactly that....your layout must have blue in it somewhere!

And here is the layout I created for it. I loved this challenge and though the idea of adding blue wasn't my favorite, I was happy with it in the end.

Be sure and go check out this week's challenge It's not too late to play along!

Design Team Challenge at Let's Scrap

2010-02-19T15:07:00.000-08:00

I was in charge of this week's challenge at Let's Scrap. I had saw this fun idea for a challenge (no I can't take full credit for it, though I wish I could) so I tweaked it and made it for Love. Come check it out here.

And here's mine that I did for it. Again...fun to do a single layout.

Snow challenge at Let's Scrap

2010-02-19T14:53:00.000-08:00

Let's Scrap had a DT challenge from Shana. She challenged us to use this recipe on our layout:
S: some bling
N: nine embellishments
O: One photo
W: white space.

It was fun creating a single layout - definitely my favorite kind. Here's what I created.

My favorite Album

2010-02-18T18:50:00.000-08:00

On the boards at Let's Scrap the question of the week is: What is your favorite layout or project. It was an easy question, or so I thought. As I was pondering what my favorite project was, I remembered a special album I created back in 2007 about the journey I went through after losing my baby at 22 weeks - what I experienced and more importantly, what I learned. I thought I'd share the album here for those who wanted to see all of the pages. I do have a lot hidden journaling throughout the book and will try to explain what I have written there. I made this wooden cover and used Chatterbox black refills for my pages

This journaling is about a dream I had several years before I got pregnant...hence the title.This is about how I thought I was done with kids and how I was shocked that I was pregnant and then had to go and buy all new maternity clothes, baby stuff, etc.

This talks about how we went into our ultrasound all happy and excited because I just knew this had to the girl I saw in my dreams. Then to find out there was no heartbeat and the devastation of the news. The file folder holds excerpts from my journal.

This layout is about all the decisions we had to make when it came time to deliver the baby. The right side with the small black photos talks about each momento and why it means so much to me. Under the D you can see my baby's tiny handprints.

The words over the Savior's face are lyrics from a song that really helped me understand why the Lord would have me go through this challenge. The right side talks about all of the many questions I had and then the little mini album has more journaling excerpts.

This talks about all the many angels who helped us through this time...my family, my friends and the amazing doctor, who took all the charges off of my bill and told his staff to refund me my money so that I could pay the hospital bills for in his words, "She's lost enough." What a miracle and a blessing.

This talks about how having 3 amazing children to come home to helped me get through this challenge.

Going back through this sure brings back a lot of emotion but in the end, this challenge, as all challenges made me who I am.

Let's Scrap New Sketch

2010-02-15T21:48:00.001-08:00

I'm a little late posting this week's sketch. I thought I'd share it as it's a fun one. Here's is my take on it. I love these photos of my son as they remind of watching him learn - totally made me laugh.

Come on over to Let's Scrap and share with us what you create! If you do it by Tuesday night, you can get your name into the drawing for a prize from a sponsor. Can't wait to see your work!

And don't forget about the 1st February challenge - Old vs new. I'd love to see what you create for this challenge.

Thanks Tammy for this award!

2010-02-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

Blog Award

Thanks Tammy for passing this on to me!

The rules of this award are to tell you 10 things that make me happy and then I am to pass it on to 5 more people.

So here they are, in no particular order:
1. Sunsets
2. Tulips
3. My children
4. Scrapbooking
5. A Clean and organized home
6. Friends
7. Sister Time
8. My fabulous husband Micah
9. Laughing children
10. Fresh chocolate chip cookies

Now to pass this on to 5 friends. Be sure and check out their fabulous blogs!
1. Debby
2. Tilda
3. Carrie
4. Audrey
5. Julie

Let's Scrap Sketch

2010-02-03T06:19:00.000-08:00

This is this week's sketch at Let's Scrap. Here are the two that I created using this as my inspiration.

One of the best things about Cheri's sketches is that you can create a double layout or just a single one. On this layout, I rotated the sketch one turn so I could use my horizontal photos. I love the versatility of them as you could use them over and over and you'd never know they were from the same sketch.

Here's the other layout I created of my daughter, Skye, going to her first dance. She's so grown up and is such a beautiful young lady! She loves the color purple so when she found this dress, she just knew it was the one for her.

Don't forget to come on over and post your layout using this sketch. Cheri has a weekly sponsor and you can get your name in the drawing just by downloading your layout in the gallery. The winner is then chosen randomly. Can't wait to see what you come up with.

And don't forget to get going on the challenge this month...I'd love to send someone a few goodies to enjoy!

Old vs. New Challenge

2010-02-01T11:17:00.000-08:00

This challenge is to get you to mix your old stash with your new one. I've created a list of what I consider to be old vs new. You know your stash better than I so use your judgement. Your challenge is to create a layout with at least 8 items off of this list - 4 being old and 4 being new. You can have more than that, but you must have an equal amount of old vs new. Any questions please ask. Here's your list:

1. Alphabets: OLD: Foam Stamps/Flat Stickers vs. NEW: Thickers/Die Cutting Machine lettering/ Chipboard alphas.

2. OLD: shaped punches/paper crimper vs. NEW: die cuts/dry embossing

3. OLD: deco scissors vs. NEW: Border punches

4. OLD: eyelets/snaps/conchos vs. NEW: brads/buttons/bling

5. OLD: fiber/twill vs. NEW: ribbon

6. Patterned Papers: OLD: 5 years or older vs. NEW: 1 year or newer

7. OLD: tags - jewelry/kraft/metal rimmed vs. NEW: journaling spots

8. OLD: silk flowers, stamped, die cuts vs. NEW: paper flowers or handmade flowers

9. OLD: Pen work for stitching effect vs. NEW: stitch with sewing machine or hand stitch/rubons

10. OLD: sticker vs. NEW:rub-on

11. OLD: flat cardstock vs. NEW: textured cardstock

12. Embellishments: OLD: metal(MM metal letters, plaques, charms,frames, book plates, hinges, buckles, slide frames, etc vs. NEW: deco brads, pre-made embellies, chipboard, tickets/coupons, etc.

13. OLD: Naked chipboard vs NEW: Pre-printed/colored chipboard

So here's mine for this challenge

I used :
OLD: deco scissors for borders
OLD: metal embellishments
OLD: twill
OLD: silk flowers
NEW: Patterned Papers
NEW: Thickers/die cut lettering
NEW: Cardstock
NEW: Brads
I also used this sketch from Let's Scrap:

I truly can't wait to see what you create! You have until the end of February to finish this to get your name into a drawing for a RAK from me. I'll post another challenge in 2 weeks!

My layout for the challenge

2010-01-21T18:01:00.001-08:00

Well...it's about time but I finally got my layout done for this challenge. It was harder than I thought it would be to use blue and orange but I did it. I based it off of this sketch from Let's Scrap. Now share yours here by January 31st to get your name in a drawing for a RAK from me. And it doesn't have to be your new year's resolutions. It could be a focus on one of them or about how you feel about them. Just have fun with it and show me what you've got.

I'm So Excited and I Just Can't Hide It!!!

2010-01-15T10:02:00.000-08:00

I just had to share my complete shock and joy over my news today! I found out that I have been accepted as part of the DT at Let's Scrap! I love their sketches and everyone there is so friendly. I'm just beyond words at the moment! I wish I could go use some of this energy and scrap but alas...I'm supposed to be doing payroll and taxes and instead I'm roaming the site. Go on over to http://www.letsscrap.ning.com/ and check out their amazing site! There are DT challenges posted every Friday and a new double layout sketch posted on Wednesdays. Come join in the fun!

Contest at Challenge Masters

2010-01-11T20:51:00.000-08:00

I was over at Challenge Masters, seeing what this week's challenges are and came across a fun contest. Well..maybe fun isn't the right word but it intrigued me. Choose one word that describes what you want for 2010 and scrap a layout about it, explaining why you chose that word. The fine details are found here. I plan on participating in this contest, if nothing else to make me scrap about me. I'd love to see what you create for this challenge/contest. Go on over and join in on all the great challenges. I love a good challenge, it forces me to think outside the box. How about you? Are you a challenge junkie? Share with me what word you're thinking of. I'd love to hear about it. I think I might use "Abundance" or "Joy". Not sure...gotta think about it.

A New Year and a New Challenge

2010-01-06T19:43:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I posted, so thought I'd better get caught up! Okay...first off just have to say, "Go BSU Broncos!" I just got back from the Fiesta Bowl down in Glendale Arizona. I went down with my dh and our good friends. We had a fabulous time! What an amazing game and WOW..the energy in that stadium was electric. It was so exciting to see them play so well and win once again. I love watching them play. Wow..what a game!

I've been thinking a lot about this blog and have decided it's time to change it up a little bit. I think we'll work on 2 challenges a month. That way it will give you more time to play. So with that said let's get started with our first challenge:

Create a layout about resolutions. It can be a list of your resolutions for 2010, or about one you accomplished last year or about you hating them and that you don't make them. Whatever speaks to you, go with it.

And just for fun, in honor of BSU and their persistence and courage...let's add the colors blue and orange somewhere on your layout. They can be any shade of blue and orange but those colors must be present somewhere on your layout.

That's it! Show me what've got! I can't wait to see what you create! You have until January 30th to complete to be entered into the drawing for a small RAK from me. I'll get working on this and post mine soon.

Fun Challenge Blog

2009-11-18T12:07:00.001-08:00

I don't know about you, but I'm a challenge addict! I love, love a great challenge! I've found a wonderful new blog site that posts 16 new challenges a month. How cool is that?! I've already completed 7 of the challenges and have a few more to go. Go on over and check them out! It's called Challenge Masters. For each challenge you complete, they'll put your name into a drawing to win a free kit. So, go over and get join a few groups and get going before the month is over. Click on the box to take you to the main page

and here's one to the master list of challenges.

Scrap Within Reach New Carnival Ride

2009-11-15T20:23:00.000-08:00

Memorable Seasons just got this amazing new line into their store. I am so in love with it and just had to share. I love the colors and all of the patterns work so well together! Here's a few of my favorites! And those stickers are adorable!!! Go to www.memorableseasons.com and you'll find the whole line! Amazing stuff!

Challenge Layout

2009-11-13T09:59:00.001-08:00

Here's my layout for the Nov 12th challenge. I had fun with this. I did learn that I don't have enough photographs of me. This isn't the best photo but all I could find. I guess I need to give the camera to someone else once in awhile. I learned how to make the paper flower on Serendipity Scraps. It's a daily challenge. Mine looks very different than hers but it was pretty easy to make.

November 12th Challenge

2009-11-12T19:39:00.000-08:00

For this week's challenge I want you to create a layout using:

Color challenge: light aqua, red, dark brown and cream.

A Hand-made flower

A Scalloped edge

Must include a list of some kind.

And just for fun...add a bird somewhere on your layout.

I can't wait to see what you create. You have until the end of the month to post a link to your creation. I'll get mine finished up and posted tomorrow.

Remember, for each challenge you complete your name will go into a drawing for a small RAK from me.

2009-11-10T14:29:00.000-08:00

I got my challenge layout complete. Can't wait to see yours. Here you go:

It's time for a challenge!

2009-11-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

Alright, it's time for a new challenge! Fall is here and I love seeing all the changing foliage on the trees, the cooler weather, and the opportunity to wear my long sleeves again. To honor fall, this week's challenge is to create a layout using
1- embellishment; use a tree of some kind and to challenge you further, lets add either stitching or buttons to it
2- color: use either rust/brown, orange, yellow or red on your layout or a combination
3 - technique: inking
4- And for a little twist: your layout can't be about fall.

I can't wait to see what you create. I'm going to work on mine this weekend and will post as soon as I'm done.

Don't forget...at the end of the month, I'll put the names of all entries in and draw out a name for a small RAK from me. I can't wait to see what you create!

A very Cool Blog Giveaway

2009-10-31T21:17:00.001-07:00

For all you Thickers Fans...you've got to go to http://thisscrapperslife.blogspot.com/2009/10/thickers-giveaway.html for an amazing opportunity to win some great Thickers by American Crafts. I thought I was an addict but have since realized I'm still in the baby stages of this addiction. Go check it out, sign up as a follower, and enter for your chance to win some amazing thickers! How cool is that?!

Orange Challenge

2009-07-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

Bo Bunny has a fun challenge on their blog to use the color orange. I love using orange. It's actually one of my favorite colors to use when I scrap my boys' photos. This time, though, I thought I'd do one from my cruise (yes I'm still working on the photos from 2 years ago). I loved this Bo Bunny Mango Luau collection for my photos. I definitely had fun with this challenge! Join in and put a link to your orange layouts so we can all share. Here's mine:

Have an orange-kind of day!

Bo Bunny Card Challenge

2009-07-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

Bo Bunny has a cool card sketch up. I decided to give it a try. It's been awhile since making a card and it was fun. Here's Bo Bunny's Sketch:
And here's my take on it:

Plus, if it's been awhile since you were over at the Bo Bunny blog, you might go and check out all of their sneak peeks. Very cool and fun collections coming out. I can't wait to see them hitting the stores. Amazing stuff!

Okay...let's kick off the challenges

2009-07-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

So it's finally time to start the challenges. Remember, for every layout you create for the challenge, you get your name in a drawing for a RAK from me that will be sent out at the end of the month. Since there are only 2 weeks left of this month, your chances of winning are great.

Your first challenge for the week of July 14, ending Monday night, July 20 at 12 a.m. PST is this. Create a layout using Bo Bunny. I want to highly encourage you to play with the products and get those papers off the shelf and use them. I do have a few other requirements: you layout must include:
* Bo Bunny paper
* it has to be an 8x8 or larger
* journaling of some kind
* at least 3 flowers and one needs to be layered(can be from paper, die cuts, silk, etc.)
* brads
* a circle somewhere on the layout
* a rub-on

That's it. Have fun with it. Enjoy playing with that Bo Bunny. And if you're happy with it, think about trying out for the DT Audition that ends July 25th. Please comment with the link to your layout. Thanks! Can't wait to see what you come up with. I'm off to get mine started. And for a little bit of inspiration, here are a few of my most recent layouts using Bo Bunny.

Bo Bunny Sneak Peek

2009-07-14T21:10:00.000-07:00

Look at this yummy goodness. I absolutely love this new Delilah line! The color combo is so unique and I'm very drawn to it. I can't wait to get some and start creating! Isn't it divine?

Oh, and they have a gorgeous new fall line. It's called Gypsy. Mmmmm...so beautiful! Be sure and check their blog daily, they have a lot of fun challenges and since it's their anniversary, they're sharing some great sneak peeks with us.

Bo Bunny DT Auditions!!!

2009-07-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

I have to say, I'm very excited today! Bo Bunny is one of my absolute favorite scrapbook companies out there and today they announced they are having DT auditions. I have to admit, I'm not sure if I'll have what they're looking for but I will be trying out! It would be a dream come to true to design for them. I've got my products picked out and am still deciding on exactly what project I want to do. I'll probably get started tonight. I am just so thrilled and can't wait to start playing. Just wanted to share with those of you who might be interested. I say we all go for it, and the worst that can happen is that we'll have a bunch of awesome Bo Bunny layouts and projects. So join me in this audition. There's so much talent out there, I know you can do it!

Yummy new Cosmo Cricket

2009-06-25T17:12:00.000-07:00

I love Cosmo Cricket and when I got my most recent kit from Backp0rch Memories, I found this wonderful new line! I happened to be participating in the Last Serenity Scrapper Standing contest and had to use this color combo on a layout:

It was a fun challenge and I was so excited when I opened my kit and found the new Early Bird line. Darling stuff. So this is the layout I created using this color combo. I did a double layout.

I loved working with it and want to use more of it later on another layout. I got a fun spinner I need to use. Check out this great new line. It really is adorable. My only regret is not getting more of it ordered.

Beans, beans, and more beans

2009-06-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

This weekend we're going to a family reunion and our family is making a burrito bar for the meal we're in charge of. I'm in charge of making refried beans. You have to understand, I've only made beans from a dried form twice in my life and it's just been a pound at a time. With so many people to feed, I need to make 8 pounds of beans. So last night I put them all in a pan and added water to soak them. I covered them and thought it'd all be fine. Well...when I woke up this morning, my son came in and said, "Mom, I think you have a problem with your beans. I sent in the kitchen and found that the beans had really expanded and were about 4 inches higher than my pot (and it's a big pot) with the lid still on top. Totally made me laugh out loud!!! I just wish I had taken a photo. So the lesson I learned today is "when soaking beans, make sure you have plenty of room for them to expand...because they will".

I finally did it!

2009-06-24T21:55:00.000-07:00

Well...I finally succumbed and decided it was time to start a blog. While I was trying to decide what I wanted to do with my blog, of course, the first thought I had was to create one to incorporate my huge love of scrapbooking. So here's my plan: Once a week I'll post a challenge and for each challenge you complete, I'll put your name into a drawing for a RAK from me that will be randomly drawn at the end of the month. The more challenges you complete, the more your name is entered. I hope you'll join me as we start using up our stash of supplies and enjoy the process of creating and preserving memories.