Pages

Thursday, April 30, 2015

A lovely BUTTERFLY!

Happy Thursday!!

Isn't this butterfly just awesome!  And honestly, I am not a butterfly fan- but there is just something about this stamp set & coordinating framelits that I totally dig.  It is just so elegant!!  And I have made alot of different cards in various colors & combinations using it over the past 4 months.
stamp set: 'Butterfly Basics'
card stock: Mossy Meadow, Blushing Bride, Whisper White
ink: Mossy Meadow, Rose Coral ColorBox Chalk pad 
supplies: Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Butterflies Thinlits Dies, Basic Pearls, Doilies, Dimensionals, Spring Flowers Embossing Folder
other:  Dryer Sheet

This card is one of the many projects from my Spring Fling event last weekend.
+++++
Wow- Brayden had an awesome soccer game last night!!  He scored at least 2 times (maybe 3).  You can tell he has been practicing with Mike.  We were so proud of him.  His last game is Saturday morning.  And then we'll be going to baseball games starting next week.

From Brayden's soccer game we were off to the races!  We had a late night as I went to get groceries afterwards.  But Nathan looked fast!  He had a good night.  He got 2nd in his heat & he was scored 3rd place in the main- but all 3 front cars were 3 wide & within inches of each other.  I was sitting at the finish line & I would disagree with the scorer on where he finished.  If he had a white nose on the car would that have made a difference?  We are the purple #52 car with the black bumper cover (nose).



I'm off to pick up the boys.  Brayden will be here after school tonight.  I've got to get his Crispix "Wood Cake" made so we can celebrate his birthday.  Gosh- I can't believe he will be 7 tomorrow.  

We are going to get a few flowers planted tonight.  And then I'm going to spend the rest of the night a stampin' away for my upcoming class I have on Sunday.  

I hope you have a delightful day!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

A pull out "SWING CARD" using 'Sheltering Tree'!!

Here is a fun fold card using 'Sheltering Tree' stamp set.  This was one of my April monthly class cards.  There are ALOT of my favorite things used here. 

#1- I LOVE the 'Hardwood' background stamp.  It is so versatile.  I've used it on many, many cards....and you just can't go wrong any time you add it to a card.
#2- I LOVE the 'Sheltering Tree' stamp set.  I do wish it came in other choices- but is currently only available in Photopolymer.  And I hope that this stamp set carries over into the new Big Catalog.  Gosh.....what do you think?  I know that many of us have high hopes that it does.
#3- I LOVE fun folds!  I am always looking at different layouts for cards.  This is a super fun fold called a "swing card".  I've seen many different versions of this on different blogs & pinterest.  And of course I had to add a tab to mine to make it pull out!
Check it out opened up!  You just pull on the tab & it pulls out in an accordion fold style.  It is pretty cool!  This card is easy to create! Here are the measurements:
  • 8" x 5-1/4" Crumb Cake cardstock
  • 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 Early Espresso cardstock
  • 3" x 3" Whisper White cardstock for front
  • 3-1/4" x 3-1/4" Early Espresso cardstock
  • 5" x 6" Whisper White cardstock, scored at 2" and 4" in an accordion fold
stamp set:  'Sheltering Tree' & 'Hardwood' background stamp
card stock:  Early Espresso, Crumb Cake, Whisper White, Wild Wasabi
ink:  Early Espresso, Wild Wasabi, Real Red
other supplies:  Big Shot, Square Framelits, Dimensionals, Note Tag Punch
+++
Oh my.....I was beat last night.  We loaded hogs yesterday morning & again last night.  And then I had the boys all day.  And Manda & I ran to the school's FFA Greenhouse sale at 4:00 & got some plants too in between.  By the time we got in, made supper, took our showers, picked up toys, did dishes, etc.- I was done & headed to bed by 11 (which is early for me.)

I'm off this morning to pick up the boys.  Deke was up bright & early to chore & he is heading to a meeting.  Tonight we'll go to Brayden's soccer game at 5:30 & then we're all off to the races!!  I am so excited that I get to go with my family tonight.  I've missed lots of races this year & I hate missing things.  I sure hope that Nathan & the #52 Wood Racing team has good luck! I hope we see him on the front stretch & get our picture taken! 

Gotta run......I'm wishing you a WONDERFUL Wednesday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

This weeks "WEEKLY DEALS"- April 28 to May 4, 2015!

Love this Berry Basket!

Hello!
Have you noticed the cute Berry Basket on page 21 in the Occasions Catalog?  This is it!  This was one of my Spring Fling projects.

Don't you love the Butterflies Thinlit on the side of it?  And notice how I added one of the Something Borrowed Embellishments on page 42 in the Occasions Catalog, to the top of the butterfly.  If you look closely & you can see a little butterfly made using the Dazzling Diamonds Glimmer Paper back behind the bigger Lost Lagoon Butterfly.
I lined the Berry Basket using the Something Borrowed Designer Paper on pg. 42 of the Occasions Catalog too.  The designer paper liner makes it alot more sturdy.  I think that this basket sure would look cute sitting on a desk or shelf with almost anything in it.  

Oh gosh.....it make a cute May Day basket too?  And that day is coming up!!  
+++
We're up bright & early this morning to load hogs.  We'll be done in time for me to go get the boys so Manda can go to work.  Then tonight I'll be working on the farm again, as we sell another load of hogs.  It is going to be a LONG day here!  

Last night Susie's Hair Hut was open for business.  Steve & Brayden both got their hair cut.  Wow- they both look different with shorter hair.  I am glad we finally got this task accomplished.  I spent the rest of my evening burning the midnight oil catching up on piles of bookwork for the farm & stamping.  I'm gaining....but not done.

I hope you have a TERRIFIC Tuesday!!
Happy stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Monday, April 27, 2015

Tools= guys!

Here is a great guy card made with the awesome tool stamp.  I used the set- 'Guy Greetings' from the Occasions Catalog.  This was one of the many cards that everyone attending my Spring Fling got to make.  You could easily change the words stamped here & make this as a great Father's Day card too!
I will update this post sometime soon with the supplies used.


++++
This energizer bunny is dead.....been a long past week getting ready for & hosting my Spring Fling event that I had yesterday.  I got up early this morning & got caught up on emails & such that had piled the past few days.  Then headed to South English to clean up the hall I rented for my event.  I spent 5 hours there cleaning.  Then home to unload my car, mixed up a crock pot of cheesy potatoes, showered & we headed to Nathan & Sarah's for Brayden's 7th birthday party!  We had a fun night there spending it with family celebrating Brayden's birthday!

This morning I'm headed in to pick up the boys.  Deke got up early to chore & he is headed to the office for his weekly meeting there.  Brayden will ride the bus out tonight & hopefully all works out for us to get his hair cut.  Steve needs his cut too sometime this week.  

Tonight I'll be catching up on piles of things from the past week- personal, Stampin' Up! & farm things!  

Gotta run.......
I hope you have a MARVELOUS Monday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Sunday, April 26, 2015

A pretty butterfly!

Hello!
WOW- what a great day of stamping yesterday!  I'm so glad that so many came to spend the day with me.  I would say it was a perfect day!  The weather was chilly & wet outside....so it was a perfect day to be inside.  We were warm & cozy & enjoyed a full day of creating together.


Here is one of the cards that everyone made at my Spring Fling event.  I saw a card similar to this on Pinterest.  
I will update this post with the supply list & more soon.  I just LOVE these Butterflies Thinlit!  This is the biggest of the 3 butterflies included in this set of framelits. 

We have another crazy busy day here.....

I hope you have a SUPER Sunday!

Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Saturday, April 25, 2015

It is Simple Saturday & my Spring Fling!

Here is a quick post.....
Woo hoo!  Today is a big day!  It is my Spring Fling event.  

This is one of the cards that everyone will be making today at my Spring Fling!!  It is done using the beautiful Painted Blooms Designer Series Paper on pg. 19 in the Occasions Catalog.  And I also added the middle sized butterfly from the Butterflies Thinlits Die on it too!  How simple it is- yet so very pretty!  

I'll tell you more about it in the next few days.  It is so easy to just cut this 12x12 sheet of Designer Series Paper up & get 6 cards out of it that are all just beautiful!  I've seen many different cards on Pinterest & different blogs using this idea & I first heard about it when we were at Leadership in January.  I knew then that this was going to be one of my Spring Fling projects.  I hope that all of the girls today think it is as cool as I do. 
++++++
I am headed to bed for a couple of hours & will get up & finish packing up & work on some of the food for today's event before I head out the door.  I have alot of things to carry in the building & get set up before everyone arrives.  I am looking forward to seeing everyone that is joining me & spending our whole day together stamping.

I hope you have a SENSATIONAL Saturday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Friday, April 24, 2015

A CUTE little gift bag!

Wow- isn't this stinkin' cute!  This is a little gift bag made using the Mini Treat Bag Thinlit Die on pg. 9 in the Occasions Catalog.  

For the inside I made a little pull up piece that has a sentiment on it, plus a pocket to put money or a gift card into it.

I  know that we have several birthdays coming up.  And lots of graduation parties too.  This would be perfect for them! 
stamp set:  'Sumthin' Sumthin'
card stock: Bermuda Bay, Whisper White
designer paper:  Birthday Bash
ink:  Bermuda Bay
other supplies:  Angled Tag Topper Punch, Ticket Duo Punch, Mini Stapler, Confetti Stars Border Punch, Crushed Curry 1/8" Ribbon, Bermuda Bay Bakers' Twine, Dimensionals, Glue Dot

This is one of the projects everyone attending my Spring Fling will be making on Saturday!  I really like it. I hope they do too!

++++++
It was nice to have warmer temps & less wind yesterday.  The boys got to play outside & enjoy it.  Deke ended up having 3 meetings to attend yesterday- so got home late yesterday afternoon, just in time to go with me to set up & tables & chairs at the hall I rent for my stampin' events.  We came home & he worked late on the farm & I burnt the midnight oil cutting card stock!  

I'm off to pick up the boys.  Tonight I'll be making food, cutting card stock & finishing up things for my Spring Fling!!

I hope you have a FABULOUS Friday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Thursday, April 23, 2015

I'm CELEBRATING!!!

Woo Hoo!!  Gosh.....I have my Spring Fling on Saturday & am thinking now I should have named it Cards Galore!  Everyone will be making other projects too- but I do have a pile of cards for them to make.  I am an over achiever.  And those of you that have attended my all day stamp camps before know that you're going to go home with a ton of finished projects & new ideas!

This is one of the cards everything joining me at my Spring Fling will be making!  The whole day will focus around products from the Occasions Catalog.  I am so in love with this catalog & it is full of so many awesome products that I just haven't been able to share yet at my workshops & previous classes yet.  I'm excited about all of my projects & this class & I hope everyone joining me is too!  I can't wait!
I used the Balloon Framelits & the cool Birthday Bash Washi Sheets when I created this card!  So what do you think?  

stamp set:  'Celebrate Today'
card stock:  Bermuda Bay, Smoky Slate, Whipser White, Crushed Curry
ink:  Smoky Slate
other supplies:  Bermuda Bay Sequin Trim, Painted Blooms Cotton Twine, Big Shot, Balloon Framelits, Dimensionals, Glue Dots, Multipurpose Glue, Spiral Border Punch
+++++
I spent the night stamping away last night.  Nathan got 2nd in his heat & 3rd in the main.  It sounds like it was a great race & he did well.  He just got the bad luck of having a caution hurt his positioning with only 2 laps to go.  

I'm off to pick up the boys soon & spend my day with them.  Deke was up early to chore & will be gone all day, as he has 2 meetings.  Tonight we're going over to set up tables/chairs/etc for my Spring Fling event.  Then I'll be spending the rest of my night cutting card stock & getting things ready for my Spring Fling.

I hope you have a very special Thursday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Another Bokeh technique card

Here is another Bokeh technique card that I did exactly like the other one that I posted last week.  You can see it HERE & read all about this cool technique.  I don't like this one as well, as the Island Indigo is too dark of a color.  But it is fun & amazing how completely different it looks using the darker or lighter colors.
stamp set: 'Big On You' & 'Geometrical' & 'Hello Here'
(I only used the circles out of the 'Geometrical' & 'Hello Here' stamp sets)
card stock:  Soft Sky, Pool Party, Island Indigo
ink:  Pool Party, Island Indigo White Craft pad
supplies:  Island Indigo ribbon, dimensionals, glue dot


+++++
We sold hogs last night & got in about 7.  Nathan was on KBOE Race Talk Show with Jeff, so we got to listen to him.  It was about 9:30 before I got to start stamping, by the time I got toys picked up, shower, supper, dishes, etc.  I burnt the midnight oil again stamping.

I'm off soon to pick up the boys.  Deke was up early to chore & is gone all morning to a meeting.  Tonight  when the boys go home I'll be burning the midnight oil stamping again!  I have LOTS of cool projects I've been creating for my Spring Fling that is this Saturday.  I can't wait for everyone to see them!  I'm looking forward to spending my day stamping with everyone that is joining me.

All of my family is going to Osky tonight to the races.  I just hate missing going with them.  I so wish I had time to go.....but they'll keep me updated with text messages throughout the night.  I hope that Nathan has good luck!  

Ok.....gotta run.
I hope you have a WONDERFUL Wednesday!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs!
SUSIE

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Here is the RETIRING LISTS- while supplies last only!


We're saying goodbye to retiring products from the 2014-2015 annual catalog.  Right now everyone has an opportunity to order their favorites with discounts up to 50 percent off retail. Retiring products will only be available until June 2, or while supplies last.  Also included is the My Digital Studio list, with all products discounted 30 percent off retail.

*Note: Due to high demand for retiring stamps, we'll keep producing retiring stamps until May 26 (not accessories-accessories are only while supplies last only). 
      **If you would like to have a retiring list excel list- please email me & I'll email it to you!
    CONTACT ME TO ORDER FOR YOU
    OR
    ORDER ON LINE HERE!

    Be sure to check this out the CLEARANCE RACK TOMORROW, Wednesday, April 22nd, for new items will be added to it too!

    This weeks "WEEKLY DEALS"- April 21-27, 2015!

    Yay!!

    Here is another one of the cards that everyone attending my monthly classes last week made.  What a fun card it is!  Some of the gals changed the words & made this into a graduation card!  It is perfect for many occasions just by changing the wording.
    stamp set:  'Balloon Bash' & 'B.Y.O.P'
    card stock:  Baked Brown Sugar, Whisper White, Gold Foil
    designer paper:  Gold Foil Designer Vellum
    ink:  Fold Encore
    supplies:  Embossing Buddy, Gold Embossing Powder, Heat Tool, Gold Sequins, Dimensionals, Liquid Glue, Metallic Gold Baker's Twine, Ornate Tag Topper Punch, Glue Dots
    +++
    I've been a busy bee stamping for my upcoming Spring Fling!  

    I'm off to pick up the boys & we'll take Brayden to school.   Then tonight I'm a farmer helping Deke.  And I'll be a stampin' the night away when we get in.

    I hope you have a TERRIFIC Tuesday!! 
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Monday, April 20, 2015

    A beautiful card with 'Mother's Love'


    Here is another one of the cards that I created for my April classes.   Everyone joining me to stamp this past week got to make it.

    I used Shimmery White card stock, stamped the image using the Black Memento ink pad & then colored in the flower with markers & blender pens.   Look at it closely & you'll see where I added a little card stock flower at the base of the 2 stamped flowers to make it look more like the petal is opening up.
    I love this....it is a beautiful bright & cheery card!   And how could you go wrong using purple & green together?  These are 2 of my favorite color combinations.  This would make an awesome card for you to give to your mom for the upcoming Mother's Day.

    stamp set:  'Mother's Love'
    card stock:  Shimmery White, Basic Black, Elegant Eggplant, Pear Pizzazz
    ink:  Black Memento
    markers:  Pear Pizzazz & Elegant Eggplant
    supplies:  Big Shot, Delicate Designs Embossing Folder, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, 1 3/4" Scalloped Circle Punch, Pear Pizzazz 1/4" Cotton Ribbon, Itty Bitty Accents Punch Back(small flower), Blender Pens, Simply Scored Scoring Tool, Diagonal Scored Plate, Dimensionals, Glue Dots
    +++++
    We had a great time stamping yesterday!  I was beat when I got home.  It sure makes a long day for me- but I'm glad that it works out so well with us doing 2 classes in one day each month.

    I'm off to pick up the boys.  Deke was up early to chore & has his weekly board meeting this morning.  

    I'll be burning the midnight oil tonight stamping!!  Woo Hoo!  It is a VERY busy week here for me getting ready for my upcoming Spring Fling event that is on Saturday!!

    I hope you have a MARVELOUS Monday!!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Sunday, April 19, 2015

    Here is a sneak peek of my 4 Seasons Sampler

    Here is a sneak peek of my 4 Seasons Sampler & matching cards that are projects for my upcoming Spring Fling that I'm having next Saturday!!  I love them. I think that they turned out super cute!

    I will update this post next Sunday when I have a day home to catch up.
    +++++++
    I'm off here soon for the day.  I have 2 big classes.  Karen & Kathy are the hostesses.  I have one class at 10 & one class at 1.  I have a big group joining me for both of them & I can't wait for everyone to come stamp with me.

    Gotta run- I'm off to finish packing up, loading the car & heading to my stamp classes.

    I hope you have a SUPER Sunday!!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Saturday, April 18, 2015

    Susie's FAUX Bokeh technique card-

    This is one of the cards that everyone stamping with me this week at my April classes got to create or will be creating.  I LOVE IT!  Don't you?

    It is what I call a faux bokeh technique.  What is bokeh- pronounced Bouquet??  Here is a definition that I found to help explain it.  It is generally a photography term that has become the rage in stamping for awhile.  Normally it is pretty messy- so I came up with this version to make it stamp friendly to be able to mass produce & use in a workshop setting.


    Bokeh Origins
    The term originates from the Japanese word 'boke' meaning blur. Not simply about the circles of light produced in out of focus areas when photographing highlights, bokeh arises from the aesthetic quality of the overall blur. Good bokeh is appealing to the eye, it can not only make the subject stand out from the background but add a very pleasing visual effect. Done well, bokeh produces soft round shapes and smooth lines but beware, bad bokeh can add a harsh quality to an image. The soft curves and hard lines may produce double lines - creating a distraction to the eye and making the image less visually appealing.
    stamp set: 'Big On You' & 'Geometrical' & 'Hello Here'
    (I only used the circles out of the 'Geometrical' & 'Hello Here' stamp sets)
    card stock:  Soft Sky, Pool Party, Bermuda Bay
    ink:  Pool Party, Bermuda Bay, White Craft pad
    supplies:  Soft Sky 1/4" Seam Binding ribbon, dimensionals, glue dot

    Often times when doing the bokeh stamping technique- different sized circles are cut using the circle framelit on a window sheet to make a template & then a sponge or sponge daubers are used to color inside the cut out circles.  I did my card using circle stamps instead to make it faster to do & not as messy to do for a class with several people creating at one time. 
    +++++
    Last night I burnt the midnight oil getting ready for my monthly class that I have on Sunday.  Karen & Kathy are my hostesses.  We have a big group coming!!!  Woo hoo!  I can't wait to see everyone & share.

    Deke worked in the field all night again & hopefully he is done soon.  

    Nathan, Sarah, Mark & Trevor went racing.  Nathan looked good again.  He started 11th in the main & finished 2nd.  Yeah.....he's getting this car figured out.  I am sad that I have only made it to one race all year so far. I hate missing them.  I just have too much to try to keep up with right now.  Hopefully sometime soon I'll get there.  I know it won't be this next week.....I'm gonna be a busy bee creating & cutting for my upcoming Spring Fling that I am having next Saturday!!  

    So I'll be stamping all day/night!!  I pray that I have good mojo creating projects for my Spring Fling!

    I hope you have a SENSATIONAL Saturday!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Friday, April 17, 2015

    Butterfly Thinlits.....are NOW AVAILABLE!

    1. Get the Butterflies Thinlits at a 15% discount--just $21.20!
    2. Buy any of the Butterflies Thinlits Bundles at the already-discounted price and choose one of three FREE Sale-A-Bration items (only available while supplies last)!

    • Best Year Ever Designer Series Paper (#138633)
    • Best Year Ever Accessory Pack (#138634)
    • Irresistibly Yours Specialty Designer Series Paper (#138635)

    NOTE:  This beautiful butterfly shown above was on a card that my demonstrator friend Linda Wilson sent to me for my birthday in February that I just love!

    A cool guy card!

    Here is a cool guy card that is a fun fold!  I made this card for a monthly swap that I'm in with some other demonstrators.  I really like this goose that is in the 'Moon Lake' stamp set.
    This is what it looks like shut.
    And here is what it looks like opened up!  Neat huh!  

    stamp set: 'Moon Lake' & 'Work of Art'
    card stock:  Chocolate Chip, Sahara Sand, Very Vanilla
    ink: Chocolate Chip, Soft Sky
    supplies:  Paper Snips, Large Oval Punch, Dimensionals
    +++++
    I had a full house that came to stamp with me last night.  I think everyone had a good time & liked the cards.  And I'm excited that several of them are going to be joining me next weekend for my Spring Fling event!!

    I am up early this morning to finish picking up tables/chairs & putting our house back in order from last night class, before I go pick up the boys.  Tonight the guys are going racing & I'll be burning the midnight oil stamping.

    I hope you have a FABULOUS Friday!!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Thursday, April 16, 2015

    'For All Things' sympathy card

    Here is another card that we did at my All Occasions class.  I love this card!  This is one of my favorite stamp sets.  It is a carry over from last falls Holiday Catalog.  It is just so versatile.  It makes a great fall card, a great guy card- just a cool card for many different occasions.

    This is similar to a card I did for a blog post last fall, but I didn't use it for a class- so decided to change it up a bit & use it for this class.  I would call this a clean & simple card.

    stamp set:  'For All Things' & 'Love & Sympathy'
    card stock:  Sahara Sand, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White
    ink:  Sahara Sand, Chocolate Chip
    other:  Big Shot, Woodgrain Embossing Folder, Extra Large Oval Punch, dimensionals
    +++++
    Darn- I ended up not going to the races last night.  I just have so much to do.....I hated missing them & spending time with our whole family though.  Nathan got 2nd in his heat & started 5th.  He redrew 11th for the main & finished 4th.  They said he was fast!  It sounds like he must be getting this new car & the set up figured out it.  I burnt the midnight oil last night working on things for upcoming stamp classes. 

    I'm off to pick up the boys.  Then tonight I will have a full house coming to stamp with me!!  I'm looking forward to seeing everyone!!

    Gotta run.....
    Happy Thursday!!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Wednesday, April 15, 2015

    NOTICE RE: BUTTERFLIES THINLITS

    I'm sorry!! 
    They will not be available now until Friday!!
    I will keep you updated on things!

    'Balloon Bash' with photopolymer reverse image stamping!

    Here is a super fun card that everyone made at my March classes & I just realized that I had forgotten to post it.  This is a cool technique that I learned at Stampin' Up! Leadership in January when I attended it. I don't know what the official name for it is but I am calling it "photopolymer reverse image stamping"!
    Isn't it cool how the words have a shadow stamp over them?  And so how did I do that?  Well when you use any photopolymer stamp you can turn it over & use the solid image or the back side of it.  So that is what I did here.  Be sure to try it for yourself.  It is really neat & would work with many photopolmer stamp set images.


    stamp set:  'Balloon Bash'
    card stock:  Soft Suede, Pool Party & Whisper White
    designer paper:  Best Year Ever (SAB product- not available now)
    ink:  Soft Suede & Pool Party
    other supplies:  Big Shot, Top Note Die, Dimensionals, Glue Dot, Crushed Curry Ribbon (Best Year Ever Assortment- SAB product-available still with the purchase of the Butterflies Basics Bundle!)

    **How did I make the Soft Suede little dots on the Pool Party card stock?  I used a pencil eraser & ink.  

    ++++++
    We had a super crazy, busy day yesterday!  But guess we survived... I was exhausted last night.  I burnt the midnight oil sorting through boxes of orders that I needed to get done that my UPS man had left here the past 2 days.  I had tons of other things too to do, but guess they'll still be here & I'll get them done when I can.  Deke worked in the fields all night & so didn't get much sleep.  Hopefully he will be done this week. 

    The boys & I ran errands yesterday morning.  They were the main attraction at the ASCS Office & the City Hall!  When we got home they had a blast playing outside.  The weather was perfect!!  It was my kind of day!!  Wish we had many days that are just like it.  

    Brayden did good at his soccer practice.  He then road in the tractor with Papa for awhile afterwards while I got them supper.  I took supper up to Deke to eat in the tractor & to Trevor (a friend of Nathan's that is like our other son) to eat in the shop.  We got Brayden's homework done & then Nathan & Sarah got home to pick him up.

    This morning I'm off to Manda's to get the boys.  Nathan will drop Brayden off there & we'll take him to school.  Deke will be in the office this morning, so he got up early to get his chores done & headed to town.  

    Tonight is race night in Osky......so I'll head over there to cheer on Nathan & our 52 team.  Deke is going to stay home & work in the field.  I'll burn the midnight oil when I get home working on getting things ready for my class I have here tomorrow night since I didn't get anything done last night.

    Gotta run......I hope you have a WONDERFUL Wednesday!!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Tuesday, April 14, 2015

    This weeks- "WEEKLY DEALS"- April 14-20, 2015!

    A cute little chick!!

    Here is a card that I forgot to share.....it is the Easter card that I made for the boys.  Check out the little hearts along the bottom.  Aren't they cute!  
    This stamp set is 'Cheerful Critters' from the Occasions Catalog.
    +++++
    Brayden rode the bus out after school.  We helped Papa with the hogs after the Seeley boys went home.  We got in we got in about 8, got Brayden's homework done & he went home.  I made a late supper, did dishes & then Susie's Hair Hut was open for business & Deke finally got his hair cut.

    This morning we are loading hogs bright & early instead of tonight.  I'll then go to Manda's to get the boys.  Nathan will drop Brayden off there & we'll take him to school & then head out here.  Brayden will ride the bus here again tonight & I'll take him to soccer practice.  When he goes home I'll be burning the midnight oil getting ready for my stamp class that I have on Thursday night.

    I hope you have a TERRIFIC Tuesday!!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Monday, April 13, 2015

    Butterflies Thinlits STATUS UPDATE!! AND SPECIAL OFFER!!! AVAILABLE ON FRIDAY!!

     
    There was much disappointment when we were not able to purchase the Butterflies Thinlits in time to receive Sale-A-Bration rewards--especially in the discounted bundles. Therefore, from the day the Butterflies Thinlits are again available (approx. this Friday, April 17th through April 30th), Stampin' Up is bringing us two special offers!  Woo hoo!!

    1. Get the Butterflies Thinlits at a 15 percent discount--just $21.20!
    2. Buy any of the Butterflies Thinlits Bundles at the already-discounted price and choose one of three FREE Sale-A-Bration items (only available while supplies last)!

    • Best Year Ever Designer Series Paper(item #138633)
    • Best Year Ever Accessory Pack(item #138634)
    • Irresistibly Yours Specialty Designer Series Paper(item #138635)
     

    A "faux silk" collage card......

    Here is the card that I posted yesterday for you.  You can click HERE TO SEE THAT POST!

    I promised today that I'd share details about this card, so here they are.
    If you look closely in this photo I think you can see some of the details.  Notice the collage stamped roses & leaves?  After I stamped them I took a glue stick & put it all over the whole piece of this collage.  I then took a piece of tissue paper, crinkled it up, spread it out carefully &  laid it over the top of the collage- being sure to leave some of the crinkles in it.  This technique is called "Faux Silk" & it is one of the first techniques that I learned years ago.  

    Look behind the butterfly.  Do you see that Dazzling Diamonds Glimmer other Butterflies Thinlit behind it?

    NOTE:  The Pistachio Pudding & Crisp Cantaloupe card stock are both 2013-2015 In Colors that will be retiring & soon gone!

    stamp set:  'Painted Petals' & 'And Many More'
    card stock:  Pistachio Pudding, Crisp Cantaloupe, Whisper White, Dazzling Diamonds Glimmer Paper
    ink:  Pistachio Pudding & Crisp Cantaloupe
    supplies:  Big Shot, Butterflies Thinlit, Spring Flower Embossing Folder, Dimensionals, Glue Dots, Pistachio Pudding Baker's Twine, Glue Stick, Paper Snips
    other:  Tissue Paper

    Measurements-
    • Crisp Cantaloupe- 3 1/2" x 2 1/2" (for butterfly thinlit)
    • Pistachio Pudding- 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" (for card base); 4" x 2 1/2" (for layer piece)
    • Whisper White- 5" x 3 3/4" (for embossed piece on front); 5" x 3 3/4" (inside layer to stamp verse on); 3 3/4" x 2 1/2" (piece to stamp flower/leaves collage on); 5" x 5/8" (flagged banner with words on front)
    • Dazzling Diamonds Glimmer Paper- 2" x 2 1/2"
    • Tissue Paper- 4" x 3"- trim off access after attached to the flower/leaves collage
    ++++
    We had a great time at our stamp class yesterday!  It was wonderful to see everyone.  We missed 3 of our regular gals that have all had some health issue.  Hope they are back to join us soon (Judy, Joyce & Lana).  I enjoyed my day stamping with everyone.  It was especially good to see my friend/downline Terri that is home for a visit from Montana.  I'm so glad that she got to come visit & stamp with us while she is here. 

    I got groceries & stopped at 2 friends homes on my way home last night after my class.  As soon as I home, I got the car unloaded & then headed to the field to ride with Deke in the tractor for awhile.  We hadn't seen much of each other all weekend, so I enjoyed our time catching up.

     
    Deke worked out in the fields until the wee hours this morning trying to get as much done as he could be it rained.  He slept a few hours & was up early to chore & head to the office for his weekly board meeting.  I'm off to pick up my boys & spend the day with them.  Tonight I'm a farmer & will be helping Deke on the farm to sort pigs.  Then I'll be cutting card stock & getting stuff ready for my next class that I have this week on Thursday night. 
     
    I hope you have a MARVELOUS Monday!!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Sunday, April 12, 2015

    I LOVE this Butterfly Thinlit!!

    Here is one of the cards that everyone joining me for my April classes will be making!!

    I LOVE IT!  What do you think?  It is the faux silk technique.  I haven't done this technique for a long time & thought that this 'Painted Petals' set was the perfect set to do a collage like this with.

    AND EXCITING NEWS TO SHARE.....
    Guess what?  This Butterfly Thinlit has not been available to purchase for awhile due to the west coast dock strikes.....but you will soon be able to purchase it!!  And Stampin' Up! is offering a special to go along with it.  Woo Hoo!!

    I'll share more about this tomorrow.
    I'll post more about this card tomorrow too!  So be sure to check back for details & more information about this Butterfly Thinlit!

    I'm off to my class here soon.  Jenny is the hostess today!  I can't wait to see everyone!!  I still have some more cutting to do, load the car, etc....gotta run.

    I hope you have a SUPER Sunday!!
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Saturday, April 11, 2015

    Congratulations!!!

    Here is a fun congratulations card that was one of my All Occasions cards.  It is perfect for upcoming graduations, a baby card or any other occasion that you need to congratulate someone for.
    stamp set: 'Bravo'
    card stock:  Crushed Curry, Early Espresso, Whisper White
    designer paper: Irresistibly Yours (SAB choice- not available now- sorry)
    ink:  Early Espresso, Crushed Curry
    supplies:  Itty Bitty Accents Punch Pack (small star), dimensionals, sponge

    ++++++++
    Nathan got 2nd last night in Donnellson racing.  I stayed home & stamped- burning the midnight oil.  I have a class in N. Liberty tomorrow & Jenny is our hostess.  Woo Hoo!  I'm looking forward to seeing everyone & stamping!

    I'm off to pick up the Seeley boys & keep them for the day.  Manda & Steve are taking pictures all weekend.  Today they are taking soccer pictures & tomorrow they are taking pictures for dance classes.  Steve's parents will keep the boys tomorrow since I'll be gone.  

    Brayden has a soccer game this afternoon, so we'll go & take the 3 Seeley boys with us to that.  When they go home tonight I'll be burning the midnight oil again.   I am praying that I have good mojo as I have more creating & cutting to do.

    I hope you have a SENSATIONAL Saturday!f
    Happy Stamping!
    Hugs!
    SUSIE

    Friday, April 10, 2015

    Don't FORGET the 2013-2015 In Colors will be GONE SOON!

    Don't forget that the "2013-2015 In Colors" are RETIRING.

    • Baked Brown Sugar
    • Coastal Cabana
    • Crisp Cantaloupe
    • Pistachio Pudding
    • Strawberry Slush  
     
      BE SURE TO ORDER THEN NOW, BEFORE THEY ARE GONE FOREVER!!
      They will sell out fast!!!  
      Once they are gone- they are gone forever!
      Don't wait to order them until the retired list comes out on April 21st, as that will be too late.

      **Don't forget ink refills, twine, sequins & the Designer Paper Stacks too!

      It ENDS TODAY!! Don't miss out on FREE SHIPPING!

      Don't forget about the awesome Stampin' Up! offer going on right now for FREE SHIPPING!
      This offer ends today!  So if you haven't taken advantage of it yet- be sure you do.
      Contact me to help you place your order- dswood@cloudburst9.net
      or order on line-www.susiewood.stampinup.net