'Lovely As A Tree'

HI!
Yipee- we got some rain last night!!
There were some plus's & minus's that went along with that.
We got wind first though & it broke a big branch out of our tree in our front yard. 
And Nathan got rained out at Columbus Junction after they drove all of the way down there to race.
BUMMER!
But we were so dry & really need the rain for the crops & yard.

Yesterday I had the twins in the afternoon & my sister Barbie was here to visit. 
It was a nice/fun afternoon!
I did get all of my scrapbook things finally put away.
And I did a little stamping last night.
I kinda struggled with my Mojo at first- but really like the 2 cards I got done.
I have TONS to do today/tonight.

From 3 to 8 today, Deke & I will be attending the dedication of our Lake Belva Deer.  

Since Deke is on the Board of Supervisors he got an invitation to attend & we graciously accepted.  

It is truely a beautiful place!!!

Keokuk County is so LUCKY to have such a great conservation officer- as David & his crew have done an amazing job building everything at our Lake and taking great care of things.

Governor Brandstad will be there to do the dedication.

They are having a bus tour, the dedication & then a supper.

The public is invited to some of this & other parts of it are for reservation/invitation only.

We are looking forward to it. 

Today I wanted to share a card that I did in March at my 40 card class.

Again.......an 'OLDIE' but a goodie stamp set.

I just love 'Lovely As A Tree'.

 'Lovely As A Tree' & 'Embellished Events'

cs:  Crumb Cake, Certainly Celery, Early Espresso

ink:  Early Espresso

Soft Subtles Designer Series Paper Stacks

supplies:  Naturals button, linen thread, Word Window punch, Decorative Label punch, dimensionals, glue dot, watercolor crayons & blender pens

Ok- off to my stamp studio I go with my cup of coffee!
I'll be a stampin' fool today.
Thankfully Deke said he would help me do the Big Shot cutting tonight when we get home.

Have a great day!!

ENJOY!

Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Some of my scapbook pages..........

HI!
Here are 4 of my sets of scrapbook pages that we did at my class last Saturday!!  I offered a wide assortment of various layouts & pages.  It was so much fun!!  I think they all turned out super cute!
All of the products I used were Stampin' UP!  Many of them were retired (designer paper, buttons, ribbon, brads, dies)- as I was cleaning out things.  

Yesterday I enjoyed they whole day.  In the morning I had a visit from Brayden.  He was here with his dad at the shop, but he always knows that Grandma has cookies & enjoys his company- so he came down to check in on me & ended up here until his dad came to get him.  Then I had lunch with my friend Marge, Manda & the twins.  After that Manda, the twins & I went to pick out & order her new glasses.  They are cute & look really nice on her.  She got a few groceries & loaded up on formula & baby things too before we headed back home.  The boys are so good!  We had several comments from people we saw that 'They sure are good babies'!  Today they are 10 months old!  Were does time go?  We are so blessed!

Since Deke had a meeting all day yesterday, he spent his whole night moving pigs & it was almost midnight when he got in.  I felt so sorry for him.  I went out & helped him about an hour, as I was getting worried about him.  (I offered to help earlier & he said he would get it- but I should have gone anyways.)  The spent my might in my studio cleaning & putting things away from my scrapbooking class.  Almost done!!

Today I am creating & cutting cards & getting ready for my workshop that I have on Sunday!  WAHOO!!  I have some fun new things to share.  Can't wait to see everyone that is coming.   I have LOTS to do before I'm ready for this workshop.  I hope I have good MOJO & things just click! :)

Nathan races tonight- but I don't know if I'm going yet or not.  We'll see how my day goes.  If Brayden doesn't want to go I'll stay home & stamp.

We've had some terribly HOT days this week & so badly need the rain for our crops!!  I've been PRAYING we get some much rain soon!!  This heat isn't good.   

Have a great day!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Papa Deke & the twins..........

Today the twins are 10 months old!!!

What a blessing they are.

Just precious!

We are so lucky that our family lives so close to us & we get to spend so much time with them!!

'Lovely As A Tree'

HI!  This set is an OLDIE but a goodie!  I love it & have used it TONS.

This is a card that I did at my 40 card class in March.

'Lovely As A Tree' & 'Loving Thoughts'
cs:  Old Olive, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso
ink:  Early Espresso
supplies:  Big Shot, Stripes embossing folder, dimensionals

My dear friend Nicole Slaubaugh gave me a card similar to this one a long time ago, so the creator for this one goes to her.   Thanks Nicole!  :)

This set is just so versatile.  Anyone that has been stamping very long probably has this stamp set.  It is a great set to use for a guy card too!

Deke has meetings in Ottumwa all day today, so since he won't be here for me to have to make lunch for, I am taking my friend Marge out for lunch, as I haven't seen her for a long time & we use to work together at the courthouse.  It will be great to get to see her & chat.  I think that Manda & the twins are going with us & possibly Brayden too.  When we get home I will be heading to my stamp studio to create! I still have to finish picking up from my scrapbooking class & then I have my monthly Iowa City workshop on Sunday & need to get going on those 6 cards too.  I have a bigger group joining us & I have some new fun things to share!!!

Have a great day!!
ENJOY!
HUGS!
SUSIE

'Thoughts & Prayers' card

HI!  Here is a pretty sympathy card.

'Thoughts & Prayers'
cs:  River Rock, Night of Navy, Whisper White
ink:  River Rock, Night of Navy,
supplies:  Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, scallop edge border punch, XL Oval punch, White 5/8" Organza ribbon, glue dot, dimensionals, Dazzling Details glitter

This is a card that we did at my 40 card class this past March & I've never posted it yet.  I love it!  Who would ever have thought to put those 2 colors together & get this look?  Don't they look amazing together!  I would say that this is a simple elegance card.

Last night we sold hogs late.  And before that Manda, Steve & the twins came out to eat supper with us.  I cut the twins hair for their first real haircuts!!  Brody's was really long & I cut it all over.  Drake just needed trimmed in the back & above his ears- as his front/top wasn't as long.  They both did a good job & now look like such big boys!  Guess my going to cosmetology school 30 years ago has really paid off with the savings by just cutting my families hair over the years.  I cut- Brayden, Nathan, Brody, Drake & Steven's hair all the past day.  Deke needs his done- but we haven't had time yet.  But will soon.......as he has a big meeting tomorrow & one on Saturday that he has to get it done before then so he looks good.  

Today is going to be a HOT SIZZLING day!  Be sure to drink lots of water & stay cool.

Today is a super busy day for Deke too.  He is in the office this morning & then home to get alot done before the terrible heat sets in.  One of our bulk bins is worn out & broken beyond repair, so the new one is in & they will be delivering it later this morning & they will set it with a big truck.  That will be neat to see & so nice when Deke gets it all put together & it will be in use. 

Tonight we race- so hope that Nathan will be ok racing in the heat.  He has to wear all of his hot safety equipment.   Feel so bad for him & always worry when it is so hot out.  Assume they will run fewer laps than normal.  Hope he has a good night.  He has had a streak of bad luck with that bad wreck & a couple of blown motors- so could use some good luck on his side for a change. 

Have a great day!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

My boys!!

HI!
Here is a picture of the boys taken on Father's Day down at our pond!  It was a lovely day!  The weather was perfect & it was wonderful spending the time with our family.

(Brody, Brayden & Drake)

Here is a precious photo too.
Papa & Brayden are fishing.
Brayden caught the first fish of the day.  

TOO CUTE!

Family is such a blessing!!
I'm so lucky to have them & all of my dear friends & customers in my life.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
HUGS!
SUSIE

Another Window Sheet card.......

HI! 
 A Christmas card- YEP in June!  Isn't it an elegant card.

 This is a card that I did for a swap that I'm in this month with my friend Di.  It is another window sheet card!  It is the same layout as the one I did at my June workshops using the set 'Betsy's Blossoms'. 


'Rejoicing with You'
cs:  Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla
Be of Good Cheer Designer Paper
ink:  Cherry Cobbler
supplies:  window sheet, Cherry Cobbler & Very Vanilla 1/2" seam binding ribbon, Little Labels Punch Pack, dimensionals, glue dot

I have lots more to catch up on today.  I'm still working on scrapbook pages. 

Yesterday Nathan, April & Brayden were here working on cleaning out our camper, as they are going to Red Rock this weekend with it.  Of course Brayden was down visiting me alot- as he was hungry or thirsty or whatever.  He did take a 1 1/2 hour nap too.  We then buzzed his hair!  It will be so much cooler for him for this summer.   And so much easier to take care of.  He looked CUTE!!

Tonight Steven, Nathan & the twins are getting their hair cut & then I help Deke sell hogs- so will be a long night.  Sometime we have to find time to cut Deke's hair too. 

Hope you have a wonderful day!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

He wants to be in his Papa's shoes!!!

HI!
I just had to share with you a couple of adorable pictures of Brayden from last Thursday.  I was in my stamp studio working on scrapbook pages & he said he wanted to go out to ride his gator- so I came out to help him get ready to go & was going to go water my plants while he played outside for awhile.  When I walked into the room- this is what I saw!!  I laughed so hard....he is such a doll!!  He was standing at the door- ready to go outside with Papa Deke's tennis shoes on.  And yes- he did wear them outside to ride his gator!  :)

At my last downline meeting we were all playing with the 'Papaya Collage' stamp set.  Here is the card I put together with the various different stamps in this set that we have.

Yesterday Manda, the twins & I attended our Mason Family reunion & enjoyed getting to see may of our family that we haven't seen for a long time.  The twins were the youngest there & my aunt Grace (79) was the oldest one there.  It was a beautiful day!!  

I've had a very productive day already!!  Meet one of my Bussey stamp gals at 6 in Osky with their orders- THANKS JO!  Then went to Walmart to get groceries.  Off now to get Dekes clothes ironed for the office today & then work on putting my house back into order from my scrapbook class.  I have a long list of things to get caught up on today so pray I get lots of them done. 

Have a great day!!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Such a cool METAL TAG!!

HI!  WOW- everyone had a GREAT day yesterday at my big 'annual' scrapbooking class.  I'd say the day was pretty much perfect!!!  I had a big group & everything went smoothly, I was organized & I think everyone loved the all of the pages as much as I did!!  :)  I wish I could see their pages after they get home & get their photos added to them! 

I had 2 new ladies join us that I'd never met before & I think we got them both hooked!  They both say they are coming back for a card making workshop soon!!

Hearing good comments & feeling the excitment in the air makes all of my hours of planning, creating & cutting so worth it!  Thank you to ALL of you that joined me yesterday!!!  I know I was tired last night & slept like a rock- I'm sure you did too!!

So yesterday I quickly posted a cool card that I did a couple of weeks ago at Lisa's workshop.  Isn't it a beauty!  Let me tell you about it.  Above is a close up photo I took this morning of the cool tag on it!  There are A LOT OF NEW PRODUCTS on this card!

'Everything Eleanor' & 'So Sorry'
cs:  Summer Starfruit, Soft Suede, Whisper White
Comfort Cafe' designer paper
ink:  Summer Starfruit, Soft Suede
supplies:  Big Shot, Finishing Touches Edgelits, Labels Collection Framelits, Designer Frames Folders, XL Oval punch, Summer Starfruit 3/8" stitched satin ribbon, dimensionals, glue dot

I used aluminum flashing that I bought at your local hardware store & I cut with our craft & rubber scissors, ran through the big shot & made the tag. 

Gosh I like this card.  I love both of these new stamp sets & all of the new accessories too!!

If you attend one of my July workshops I will be showing you how to make this cool metal tag.  I'll be using it on one of cards!!  So if nothing else- you won't want to miss my workshops in July- just so you can make the tag! 

Ok.......I'm behind this morning as I slept in a little (which I never do) & have been catching up on things.  I still have my house all messed up for moving furniture & having tables set up all over yesterday for my scrapbooking class.  I will work on getting my house back in order later this afternoon, as I'm off now to finish making a few things to take to our Mason Family reunion for the potluck.  And I need to jump in the shower & be out the door to pick up Manda & the twins in less than an hour.  I'd better run......

I hope you have a wonderful day!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Everything Eleanor

GOOD MORNING!

WOW- Today is my big scrapbooking class.  I am just about ready.  I am cutting my last page now, cooking & setting up tables for work stations.  My pages all turned out cute!  I'm pleased with them.  I can't wait to share them with those joining me for the day & hope they like them too!


This is a card that I did at Lisa's workshop a couple of weeks ago.  I used LOTS of new products & focusing on the new stamp set- 'Everything Eleanor'.

I will post supplies & more information on this card tomorrow.
I love this card- don't you???

Gotta run..............
Have a great day!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

More 'Bright Blossoms'.........

HI!  Short & sweet today......still creating & cutting scrapbook pages.  They are really turning out cute though!  I'm excited about sharing them with those coming to my class tomorrow.

Here is another card made using the set- 'Bright Blossoms'.  This was on our display board at Disney too- so I don't know who the creator of it is.

Have a great day!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

HI!

Just a quick post today......

Here is a neat card that was on our display board at Disney- so I don't know who the creator of it is to give her credit.  (Sorry!)

'Bright Blossoms' & 'Petite Pairs'
cs: Lucky Limeade, Rich Razzleberry , Daffodil Delight, Whisper White
Summer Smooches designer paper
ink:  Rich Razzleberry
supplies:  Big Shot, Ovals die, 1 3/4" circle punch, Brights Designer buttons, Basic Rhinestones, 1/8" Daffodi Delight Taffeta ribbon, dimensionals, glue dots

I am busy working on scrapbook pages!!  Have some cute one created.  I'm excited about my class on Saturday- but still have lots to do before then.

Brayden is coming today.  Looking forward to seeing him.  He hasn't been here for a couple of weeks during the daytime anyways.  Papa has a broken grain bin- so has to go get parts to fix it.  Brayden can go with him & they will both enjoy their time together.   Brayden is quite the little farmer & can tell you all about all kinds of tractors & farm equipment.   He knows way more than I do about equipment.  I'm sure they will check out fields, tractors & lots along the way on their road trip to Riverside. 

Have a great day!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Lovin' this card!!!

HI!
Happy Hump day!!!!

Today I am home alone & busy creating in my stamp studio.  I have my big annual scrapbooking class on Saturday & have TONS to get done.

I wanted to share this pretty card with you today.  This is one that I did at my workshops this month.  It is diagonal gate fold card. 

Here is a view looking down on it from the top.

Here is a view of it opened up.

Isn't the pretty!  It looks really cool & it really isn't hard to do either.

I've seen it done using designer paper before, but you know me- I like to layer & didn't have enough designer paper for everyone at my workshops to be able to do it- so I created this version of it.

'World Treasures' & 'Wacky Wishes' (hostess set)

cs:  Whisper White- 3 3/4 x 5"; 2 x 2 3/4"; strip

So Saffron- 2 1/4 x 3"

 12 x 5 1/4" for the base gate fold- score at 2", 4", 8" 10"- then mark at 2 5/8" (half way) in middle of ends & cut diagonally from there up to the outside score mark

Soft Suede- 4 1/4 x 5 1/2"; 2 1/2 x 3 1/4 

Floral District Designer paper- 2 x 2; 2 x 2

ink:  Soft Suede

supplies:  White Organdy ribbon, Word Window punch, Basic Pearls, dimensionals, glue dot

This card is totally me......actually reminds me of my kitchen since it is those colors.

Notice that I'm using the set 'World Treasures' again.  LOVE IT!  

Tonight we are to race in Osky.  Don't think I'm going.  I hate to miss the races, but it will depend on how much creating I get done on my scrapbook pages for my class.

Brayden will be tomorrow- so I need to make the most of every minute I have alone.

Have a great day!

ENJOY!

Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Happy BIrthday to my Honey!!

HI!

Today is Deke's birthday!  Guess how old he is!  This is a card that I did at Lisa's workshop a couple of weeks ago.  I was thinking ahead so that I'd have his card done.  :)

'Memorable Moments' & 'One in a Million' (for the inside verse)
cs:  Midnight Muse, Crumb Cake, Naturals Ivory
Comfort Cafe' designer paper
ink:  Midnight Muse & Crumb Cake
supplies:  Big Shot, Argyle embossing folder, Labels Collections Framelits, 2 1/2" circle punch, 3/4" circle punch, Naturals Designer buttons, Linen thread, dimensionals, glue dot

Notice the envelope laying under the card in the picture.......I covered the flap of the envelope with designer paper to match the card on this too!

WOW!!  So like this new set.  I got mine in clear, so that I could put the words all together onto one block & stamp them at the same time.

NOTES:
*I did punch out the numbers, so that I could get them closer together & make them 'pop out'.

*Did you know that you can either cut the 'tails' on these designer strip pendants with scissors OR you can use a square punch & slide the designer paper into the ends of them & punch them.  The larger pendant on this card is too large (wide) to use the square punch on the end though- but the 1 3/8" square punch will work to cut the angel on the crumb cake designer paper pendant.

Last night Deke & I delivered stamps & connected with several of my customers.  We then went to Carlos O'Kelly's for supper for his birthday & then to Menards to buy a new ceiling fan for our kitchen that is broken & a new door bell.

Today I will enjoy the company of the twins!!

And then tonight is my farmer night- as we sell hogs.  Since it is so hot out today we won't load until later & then pray they all travel ok on the semi in the heat. 

Hope you all stay cool!!  It is suppose to be another HOT day here in Iowa.

Be sure to check back again tomorrow. 

Have a great day!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Merry Christmas (in June)!

HI!

Here is a Christmas card that I did at my workshops this month.  This is a new stamp set & new designer paper.

For those of you that stamp with me regularly know that I love Christmas- snowman & mittens- so this set is right up my alley!

'Chock-Full of Cheer'

cs:  Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla

Be of Good Cheer Designer Paper

ink:  Cherry Cobbler & Gumball Green

supplies:  2 1/2" circle punch, dazzling diamonds glitter, 2 way glue pen, glue dot, dimensionals, Gumball Green Satin Stitched ribbon, paper snips

Check out the inside!!  This is a pop-up box card.  Cute huh!

We had a great weekend with our family!  Yesterday our kids came for lunch.  We grilled out.  Then spent the afternoon with the boys playing in the baby pool for a bit & then fishing at our pond.  Brayden & Papa caught the first fish!  Even Nestle (our Chocolate Lab) joined us & went swimming & loved chasing her ball in the water.  Steven's dad & brother came out & fished with us too.  What a beautiful day!!  

Later in the afternoon Deke & I attended a 65th wedding anniversary party of some dear family friends.  And then we visited Deke's parents & my mom & step-dad- taking them their Father's Day cards & gift.  We enjoyed our visits with them! 

Today Manda has class again- so the twins will spend the day with Grandma.

Yesterday Brody pulled himself up to the chair & stood for a long time.  It won't be long & he will be walking.  Gosh they grow up & change so fast!

Have a great day!!

ENJOY!

Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

HI!
Happy Father's Day to all of the great dad's in this world.  I know my dad was amazing & I miss him terribly.  But we have some pretty special other dads in our family- Deke, Nathan, Steven!!  Love them all!! 

This is a card that I did at my workshops this month.  I got the idea from one that SU! posted on Facebook several weeks ago.  (I actually posted their version in different colors a couple of weeks ago on my blog.) And you know me- I have to add layers & change the colors.  I just think this is so cute!!

'Best Dad Ever'
cs:  Night of Navy, Not Quite Navy, Old Olive, Whisper White
First Edition Designer Paper
ink:  Night of Navy
supplies:  Big Shot, Stripes embossing folder, Denim Jean ribbon, paper clip, dimensionals, glue dot

Our kids are coming for lunch today & we are going to cook out- pork burgers & brats.  Nathan has been wanting potato salad so I got that made yesterday afternoon.  Steven wants my cheesy potatoes- so we'll have that too!  Also need to get Deke's chocolate birthday (his BD is on Tuesday) cake baked yet & a little cleaning done.  As usual- I have stamp orders all over my living room & dinning room.  I worked on them all afternoon & evening yesterday.  Wahoo- Lots of customers got my new In Color Bundle- so was sorting & getting that all ready for delivery!! They are going to LOVE our new colors, ink pad design & have fun creating with them!  :) 

Have a great day!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

NEW Elegant Butterfly punch

HI! A couple of days ago I mentioned that the new Elegant Butterfly punch would even work with the 'Papaya Collage' stamp set.  Here is a picture of it.  As you can tell I shadow stamped the butterfly image & then sponged around the edges of it.  Although it is not exactly the same- for those of you that don't like to cut things out- I think this looks good & works perfectly!!!

So- what do you think?

I think it works!!

It is much better than having to cut out the butterfly isn't it?

This is a card that I have previously posted.

It was one of my shoe box swaps that I did for my last "Iowa Inker's" downline meeting.

I also just made a bunch of this card for my May & June customer birthday cards.  :)

'Papaya Collage' & 'Curly Cute'

cs:  Certainly Celery, Soft Suede & Very Vanilla

ink:  Certainly Celery & Soft Suede

supplies: Big Shot, New Fancy Fan embossing folder, sponge, 

Soft Suede 3/8" Taffeta ribbon, dimensionals, glue dots, basic pearls, 

Elegant Butterfly punch, Soft Suede marker

Have a great day!

ENJOY!!

Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Thinking of my dad today.......

Today is a bitter sweet day........as it is my dad's birthday!  We lost him 6 years ago tomorrow.....I know- yes on Father's Day.  A terrible day that we will never forget.  We miss my dad so much!!  I think of him every day.  I so wish he was here to see our grandchildren & spend time with us as he use to.  He would LOVE all 3 of the boys- Brayden, Brody & Drake!  We talk about my dad all of the time.  Brayden never got to meet Papa John- which is so sad, as they would have been great buddies!!!  But believe me- Brayden knows Papa John.  He knows his favorite songs, his favorite foods, his sayings, his favorite color, etc.  I love hearing Brayden bring dad up when we are doing something that he knows dad would have loved!  Dad was an avid racing fan too!!  He hardly ever missed a night of racing with our family.  Every night that Nathan races I say a few prayers as he goes out onto the track & I always put the guardian angel of Papa John on his shoulder.  Believe me- I do believe my dad is Nathan's guardian angel on the trace track, as there has been times when things happened that really should have been so much worse than they were & we were lucky & they weren't.   I know my dad is gone but I also know he is still with us!

Dad- I Will Always Love You- that wonderful Dolly Parton song (that you loved & we played at your funeral).  Thank you for all of your love, support & things you taught me to help mold me into the person that I am today!!

I Will Always Love You Dad!
SUSIE

It is a Flower Note pad........

HI!  Here is another project that I did at Lisa's party last weekend.  It was lots of fun & I think everyone liked it!  I just love the bright colors in the new Floral District designer paper.

It is a 4x4 piece of chip board.  I covered it with a 4x4 piece of our new Floral District Designer paper.  The front piece flips up & underneath is a note pad.

Floral District designer paper
cs:  Rich Razzleberry, Tangerine Tango, Rose Red
supplies:  Blossom punch, Brights assorted buttons, linen thread, new 1/4" stitched Daffodil Delight ribbon, dimensionals, sticky strip, crop-a-dile.

I punched out 3 different flowers.  The bottom one (Rose Red) I attached directly to the Daffodil (Floral District) designer paper.  The other 2 flowers I misted lightly with water & scrunched them.  I let them dry & then stuck them together with snail adhesive & put them on over the top of the Rose flower.  Then added the button, putting it on with a dimesional so that it popped up. 

Have a great day!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

More butterflies.....

HI!
Here is a pretty card that I did at my New Catalog Open Houses this month.  You can't really tell from the photo, but it opens in two different directions.  Neat huh!  I got my inspiration in making this card from one that I saw that my friend LeeAnn Greff had done.  I will try to find time to CASE her card & post it too so you can see it.

'Papaya Collage' & 'Petite Pairs'
cs:  Crumb Cake, Raspberry Ripple, Gumball Green, Whisper White
ink:  Raspberry Ripple & Gumball Greeen
supplies:  Big Shot, Fancy Favor embossing folder, white gel pen, Large Oval punch, scallop edge border punch, Gumball Green 3/8" stitched satin ribbon, rhinestones, dimensionals, glue dot

Notice that the leaves & the butterflies were shadow stamped.  This means that I inked the stamp one time & then stamped the image multiple times without re-inking the stamp to give the image a lighter or shadowed effect.

The 'Papaya Collage' stamp set was one of the stamp sets that demonstrators could preorder in May, so that we'd have it to be able to start June out with new catalog products for our workshops.  I have to be honest- it wasn't a set that I particularly cared for, but I have to say after I've played with it & made several different cards with it I really like it!!!  It has a lot of versatility!!  :)

NOTE:  The NEW Elegant Butterfly punch will work with the butterfly in this stamp set!!!  YEAH!

We raced last night & got home late so the twins spent the night here since Manda had training in Ottumwa early this morning.  So- Grandma is being paged- I'd better run.  I'm going to enjoy another fun day with 2 of my boys!  Tonight we race again.  We are going to race in Eldon for their fair race.  Hope Nathan has good luck!!

Have a fabulous day!!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Cupcake easel card

HI!

Here is an easel cupcake card.  It is one that I took a picture of last year at Founders while touring the Stampin' UP! office, so I have no idea who the creator of it is.

 Notice how the circles are punched out & taped onto the bashful blue card stock on the front piece.  Then that whole square is ran through the big shot with an embossing folder.  This technique is called inlaid embossing.

'Create a Cupcake'
cs:  Pacific Point, Old Olive, Real Red, & Whisper White
ink:  Real Red
supplies:  Big Shot, Square Lattice embossing folder, Scallop Square Bigz Clear die, 3/16" corner rounder, Large Oval punch, Scallop Oval punch, 2 3/8" scallop circle punch, 1 3/4" circle punch, Cupcake Builder punch, Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (flower), 1 3/8" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, 1" circle punch, rhinestone, dimensionals

I'm going to enjoy my day with the twins again, as Manda has training today for school.  Deke has meetings all day today, so won't be around.  Tonight we race in Osky- so I wish Nathan good luck!!  Know we sold hogs last night & it was after 10 when I got in & the guys stayed working in the shop until after 1:00.  We'll all be at the race to cheer him on.  The twins will be spending the night tonight since we'll get home late & Manda & Steve will have to get up early on tomorrow morning.

Have a great day!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

A pretty card with LOTS of new things......

HI!

This morning I'm going to share another card that I did at Lisa's workshop on Saturday.

I used lots of new products.  

Too bad you can't see it in person to see all of the details.

Notice the the new designer paper & the new embossing folder images!

This is a very basic layout- but I wanted to showcase the new designer paper.

'Layered Labels'

cs:  Crumb Cake, Raspberry Ripple & Whisper White

Natural Composition Specialty designer paper

ink:  Raspberry Ripple

supplies:  Big Shot, Apothecary Accents Framelits, Large Scallop Edgelit, Delicate Designs folder, Large Oval punch, Scallop oval punch, basic pearls, Raspberry Ripple 3/8" stitched satin ribbon, dimensionals, glue dot

I covered the back flap of the white envelope to go with this card too with crumb cake designer paper.

I am Lovin' this new Natural Composition Specialty designer paper.

It is really beautiful in person!!!

It has a raised, glossy embossing image on one side of each of the 12x12 sheets & then the back side is just plain.  

There are 2 sheets each of 6 different designs.

All of the designs are beautiful!!!  

I was so surprised when I saw it in person.  

It goes great with both the Crumb Cake & Soft Suede card stocks & all colors of card stock.

I have the twins this afternoon.

I need to get some stamp stuff put away from my workshops this past weekend before they get here.

Tonight we sell 2 loads of hogs.  

At least it is to be cooler out, which will be better for the hogs & us tonight.

Be sure to stop back by tomorrow.

Hope you all have a great day!!

Happy Stamping!

ENJOY!!

SUSIE

Papa & Brayden snoozing.......

Just had to share this.......

Here is a cute picture of 2 of my favorite guys sleeping!  They were laying exactly the same & then I went to get the camera & both of them had moved.  Still a CUTE picture though huh!  :)

Butterflies in flight........

HI!  Happy Monday!

Check out this card that we stamped at Lisa's party on Saturday.  Don't you love the new butterfly stamp set & coordinating punch?  I love it!!

Notice the envelope underneath the card.  I stamped a butterfly on the front bottom corner & then I covered the back flap of the envelope with coordinating designer paper.  

'Papillon Potpourri' & 'Sweet Essentials'
cs:  Rose Red, Tangerine Tango, Whisper White
Floral District designer paper
ink:  Rose Red
supplies:  Rhinestones, Elegant Butterfly punch, dimensionals, glue dot, White 5/8" Organza Ribbon

WOW- I had a full weekend of stamping with many old & some new friends!!  Glad to share my love of stamping with you!  We had fun creating some cool projects with lots of NEW catalog products! 

Today Deke & I will be attending the funeral of a friend & co-worker (Cindy Hollingsworth).  She was only 54 years old.  I met her & her husband (Terry) 28 years ago when I worked with them at the Sheriff's Office as a dispatcher.  Then the past 6 plus years I worked with her again through my job as secretary at the County Attorney's Office.  (Plus I worked with her son Jesse too.)  She was a very nice lady & will be missed by many.  I have many fond memories of our times together at work & pleasure too.  My heart goes out to her family.  They are all in our thoughts & prayers.  

Wishing you all a fabulous week!!!
Be sure to check back to see some more projects I've been creating with new catalog products.

ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Stamped pinwheels..........

HI!

Wow- what a busy day yesterday!!!  I was really tired last night.......

The Keota parade was hot, but alot of fun!  The twins were such troopers & so good!  My sister Beckie, my sister Julie, my niece Ginny, Manda & the twins & I all walked the whole way.  My brother-in-law Dan brought an old car that he made & the older kids rode with him in it.  Nathan took his race car & trailer & my guys road in it.  It was a very big & nice parade! There were alot of people.

As soon as the parade was over & I got back to my vehcile I headed to Lisa's for her party!!  She had really fun workshop.  I think my projects were a hit & we all enjoyed a great afternoon visiting & stamping!! I will post pictures of the cards & note holder we did at her party sometime in the next week or so.  So be watching for them.

Then last night we went out to eat supper at Tallyran with my sister Beckie & brother-in-law Dan.  We all wanted Mexican food, but the restaurant was out of that so we had something different.  We'll have to try again some night to get their Mexican food.  We've heard it is amazing!

Today I want to share another pretty card that I took a picture of at convention last July that was on the display board.  I love this cool pinwheel card.  AND I found out that my dear friend LeeAnn Greff is the creator of this beautiful card too!!!

'Sweets for the Sweet' & 'Tiny Tags'
cs:  Wisteria Wonder, Elegant Eggplant, Lucky Limeade, Whisper White
ink:  Wisteria Wonder & Lucky Limeade
supplies:  Big Shot, Stripes embossing folder, mini silver bards, white twine, jewelry tag punch, postage stamp punch, scallop square punch, Lucky Limeade ribbon, Scallop Edge Border punch, Boho Blossom punch, dimensionals, glue dot,

Well- I have lots to get done yet this morning, as I'm making more In Color bookmarks, cutting more card stock & getting ready to start packing up to head out the door soon for my workshop in Hiawatha today.  I am looking forward to seeing everyone there & spending our afternoon stamping together.  I  have a big group coming to join me!!  Wendee is our hostess.   :)  YIPEE!!!!

Hope you have a fabulous day!!!
ENJOY!!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

BUSY DAY!

HI!

Quick post this morning......

Here are a couple of pictures of Brayden & I planting flower a couple of weeks ago.

I'll get updated pictures of our pots for you soon. 
Our flowers are growing like crazy & are beautiful!!

Busy day today!

Finishing cutting card stock & packing up for my workshop at Lisa's this afternoon.

Then heading to Keota soon to be in the parade with my sister for her running for Keokuk County Auditor.  

We all got our new 'Appleget for Auditor' shirts to wear!

Tonight when I get home I will finish cutting cardstock & making book marks for my Hiawatha group I'll be seeing tomorrow.

Here is a picture of a card that was on our hospitality display table at Disney.

It is created with 'Betsy's Blossoms'.

Have a great day!!

Enjoy!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

World Treasures......

HI!
Here are a couple of cards that were on our hospitality display board at Disney.  They are created with a new stamp set called 'World Treasures'. 

Notice the new jumbo wheel 'Alhambra', the 'Labels Collection' framelit, new designer paper- 'International Bazar'.  LOTS of cool new products.

Yesterday was a busy day.  Bradyen & I went to watch uncle Jerry's tractor group ride through Sigourney.  Lots of fun seeing so many old tractors.  And Brayden is a tractor nut- so he loved it. 

Then my friend, Julie, has twin boys & she is having a garage sale this weekend.  So she invited Manda & I to come over to get the first look at everything.  We took the boys & went over to check things out.  Oh my gosh- we struck it rich!  She had so many NICE things!!  It was so organized & clean & just the nicest garage sale I've ever been to before.  Our twins got SO MANY NEW CLOTHES & a few new toys.  We are so thankful she thought of us!!! 

No boys today.  Manda & twins will come out for awhile later though as we are trying to get a wagon ready for them to ride in the Keota parade in the morning.  Have to support aunt Beckie for her Keokuk County Auditor running!! 

I have lots of stamping to do as I have a workshop tomorrow & one on Sunday too!  Can't wait! 

The guys race tonight in Columbus Junction, but I won't be going.......I have to get my things done here.  

I also get my hair cut this afternoon.  I can't wait for that either.....I look pretty shabby.

Hope you all have a wonderful day!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Pool Party Doily!

HI!
Here is another card that I took a picture of at convention last July that was up on display boards.  So I don't know who the creator of this card is.

'Doily'
cs:  Pool Party & Whisper White
ink:  Pool Party
supplies:  In Color- 3/8" Designer Printed brads, 5/8" White Organza ribbon, dimensionals

Neat how they layered just the middle of this isn't it!

Brayden is here again today.  He wants to help Papa on the farm some.......so hopefully that will work out. 

I have to take my 7 yr old nephew Luke to get his ball pictures taken this afternoon.  And sometime today we have to go to a pre-garage sale that a customer/friend is having, as she also has twin boys- so checking things out early to get clothes for the twins.

My uncle is in a tractor club & they are coming through Sigourney today- so going to try to make it to town to see them go by too.  Brayden LOVES tractors!  He knows all about them!

We raced last night & Nathan didn't make the invert (finished 5th in the heat & had to finish 4th or better), so he had to start 15th in the main.  He did good though & ended up 5th in the end.  There were a lot of cars & a big crowd in the stands with the $2 off admission coupons. They lasted about an hour later than normal due to a few more cars, 3 extra double feature makes up from the rain out last week & a wreck. 

My friend Debbie & her husband came to the races last night & sat behind us.  Yesterday was Debbie's birthday & they have talked about coming to the races for years & decided that is what she wanted to do for her birthday!  I think they had a fun.  She said she'd like to come again.  :)  Wish Nathan could have won- but at least he finished & didn't get wrecked.  There were also several other friends there sitting with us!

Have a great day!!
Happy Stamping!
ENJOY!
SUSIE

NEW PRODUCT- cake card

HI!

First of all I found out who the creator of the card I posted yesterday is.......it is my dear friend LeeAnn Greff.  No wonder of all the cards I took pictures of that was one I really liked & chose to post on my blog.  She is an AMAZING demonstrator, a WONDERFUL person & a close FRIEND!  

I love spending time with her & love her ideas!!

I can't wait to see her at convention next month.

Today's card is one that I'm doing at my workshops this month.

Don't you love all of the new In Colors?

Cute layout too with the big banner of designer paper too huh.

 'Make a Cake', 'Itty Bitty Banners' & 'Bring on the Cake'

cs:  Baja Breeze, Midnight Muse, Primrose Petals, Summer Starfruit & Whisper White

Patio Party Designer Paper

ink:  Midnight Muse

Summer Starfuit

supplies:  Big Shot, Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder, Bitty Banners Framelits, 2 3/8" scallop circle punch, 2 1/2" circle punch, Itty Bitty Shapes punch pack, dimensionals, 2 ways glue pen, metallic brads (assorted- I used the silver), white gel pen

What a fun day I had......I spent my whole day yesterday with Manda & the twins. Brody & Drake had their 9 months dr appt & everything went great!!  The dr was surprised at how much they had grown & said that they were both doing perfect.  They both are getting more new teeth.  Brody weighs 20 lbs 8 oz & Drake weighs 20 lbs 2 oz.  Brody was almost a pound lighter at birth, but now weighs more.  He is a really good eater though & Drake is a little pickier.  We ate lunch at Kentucky Fried Chicken & the twins loved the chicken, mashed potatoes/gravy & biscuits.  They are doing great with their sippy cups & are only getting 2 bottles a day now.  My how time fies.  They sure are growing fast.  We made a run to Walmart for formula & baby things too & they were both so good.  Manda is looking at the next step up for car seats, but think she is going to end up ordering them on line, as we aren't finding what she is wanting in the stores.

Last night Deke had a meeting, so thankfully our truck driver was nice enough to back off our load of hogs until later.   So it was a late night for us of sort & loading hogs, but all worked out.  We both just showered & went right to bed when we got in.

Today Brayden will spend the day with me!!  We have some errands to run & stamping to get done.  We race tonight so he'll forsure need a nap this afternoon.  Papa Deke has a meeting all day in Ottumwa & then he will be home long enough to chore & back out the door again for another meeting tonight.  He will hopefully get to the races in time for the features.   Nathan has $2 off tickets for the races tonight- so excited to see many new faces of friends join us for the races.  I know my friend Debbie & her husband Jeff, are planning to come tonight to celebrate her birthday. I think her husband things she is crazy for wanting to come to the races for her birthday- but I think it is cool!

Ok- lots to get done today.....I'd better run.

Hope you all have a wonderful day!

ENJOY!

Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Flowers!!

HI!

This is a picture that I took at convention last July.  The card was on a big display board.  It caught my attention & I think it is really cool.  I love the different shades of the flowers. 

''Friendly Phrases'
marker:  Pacific Point
cs:  Whisper White, Pacific Point, Tempting Turquoise, Old Olive, Certainly Celery
supplies:  Blossom Petals builder punch, Scallop Edge Border punch, Itty Bitty Punch pack, mini brads, 3/8" white taffeta ribbon, glue dots, paper piercing tool & mat pick.

NOTE:  Isn't it cool how the flowers are made with the 2 different petals from the Blossom Petals builder punch?  

I'm looking forward to spending my day with Manda & the boys.  Today the twins have their 9 month check-up with Dr. Mary.  We'll see how much they weigh.  She isn't going to believe how big they are.

Then tonight is my farmer night.  :)

Have a great day!!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Here are some pretty flowers in an amazing flower garden.....

HI!
WOW!  I survived my busy weekend.  I am totally exhausted.  I went 100 mph all week/ weekend- getting ready.  But I had a great time with many of you at my new catalog open houses.  I'm so glad you could join me!  Next Sunday I get to have my final new catalog open house with my group of gals in Hiawatha!!  WAHOO!!  I can't wait!

Today I wanted to share a quick post & found this cute picture that I took at convention last summer.  This is such a simple card, but yet so sweet!!  Plus it is in a garden of paper flowers that are adorable- so be sure to look at them too!

'Easy Events'
cs:  Real Red & Whisper White
Brights Designer Series 12x12 stack
ink:  Black Stazon
markers:  real red, bashful blue, so saffron
supplies:  3/8" white taffeta ribbon, dimensionals, glue dot

I hope you have a great day & a wonderful week.........check back tomorrow to see another card that I'll be sharing. 
ENJOY!!!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Lovin' my bird card!

HI!

Oh my.......this is one of the cards that I'll be sharing at my New Catalog Open Houses.  

A couple of days ago I shared this as a 'peek'.  Here is the whole card.

I just love this new designer paper.  Great colors!! 

 How could you not love anything that has green in it!

This card has a window sheet "window" on the front of the card.  

Cute huh!!  I can't wait for you to see it in person.

NOTE: I added the banner with words on it along the bottom of the card, 

using the set 'Loving Thoughts'.
This sure made the card pull together.

'Betsy's Blossoms'  & 'Loving Thoughts'

cs:  Lucky Limeade, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White 

Floral District Designer paper

ink:  Rich Razzleberry & Lucky Limeade

supplies:  Daffodil Delight 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, glue dots, window sheets

I'm glad that so many of you could join me yesterday for my Open Houses in Sigourney.

I enjoyed my day stamping, visiting & sharing my love of stamping with all of you.

 Today I'm soon off to Iowa City for my New Catalog Open House.

I need to get packed up & loaded up.

I have a big group of loyal customers joining me there.

Can't wait to share.

Have a great day!!

ENJOY!

Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

Here is a cute guy card..........

HI!

Today is my New Catalog Open Houses in Sigourney.  I will have one this morning & one this afternoon.  Then tomorrow I'll have one in Iowa City & next Sunday I'll have one in Hiawatha.  This way I can share with all of my customers!  They will all be making the same 6 card projects.


Here is a quick & cute guy card that I wanted to share with you today.  Almost a month ago Stampin' UP! had their employees make cards for Mother's Day & Father's Day.  This is my version of their Father's Day card.  I used different colors & ribbon, but used the same layout.  For those of you that are friends with Stampin' UP! on Face Book- you probably saw their card.

'Best Dad Ever'
cs:  Not Quite Navy, Night of Navy, Old Olive, Whisper White
First Edition Designer Paper
ink:  Night of Navy
supplies:  Demim Jean ribbon, dimensionals, glue dots, paper clip

For those of you attending my one of my Open Houses this weekend- I can't wait to see you & share!
I am EXCITED to share my cards with you!!  I'm doing some new & different folds, using all of the new In Colors & have some really cute & fun cards!

Have a great weekend!
ENJOY!
Happy Stamping!
SUSIE

WAHOO!!! The new catalog is here!

WHAOO!
The new catalog is here!
LOTS OF NEW THINGS TO SHARE!
I'm EXCITED about it.........
Can you tell?

Check out these new In Colors!
Gumball Green
Midnight Muse
Primrose Petals
Raspberry Ripple
Summer Starfruit

My demonstrator friend, Selene Kempton, shared the template for these bookmarks. 
She got the template off of SUDOL, so I'm not sure who the original creator is.

I love it!  

And of course- you know me- I added the tag, ribbon & stamped words to it.  

And I did use a different stamp than she did.  

I do appreciate her sharing this great idea.  

Thanks Selene!  

So.........

Here are bookmarks that I've been making to give to those that attend my 

New Catalog Open Houses!  

Here is a peek at one of the cute cards we'll make be making too!

This is a new set called 'Besty's Blossoms'.

I know you can't tell from the photo, but there is a window sheet on the front of the card.

It is cute!!

And I'll have several other cute cards to share at my New Catalog Open Houses too!

Well I'm off to my Stamp Studio now!

I have LOTS more stamping to do!

Hope you have a great day!

ENJOY!

Happy Stamping!
SUSIE