LilyBean's Paperie

Crafty Secrets Party Time Design Team Challenge...and a couple of giveaways!

Hello  Monday!  I do so love you Monday....familiar Monday....back to regular routines...meal planning, bill paying, tidying up after a snowy, muddy weekend, a fresh start and outlook on a new week ahead....

Today the Crafty Secrets Design Team members each have party themed projects up on our blogs....not specifically birthday themed, but any project that celebrates something...babies, mothers, weddings, friends, spring, tea parties, etc.

Since I have a thing for cupcakes lately...prepare yourself for another one....I love transforming them, dressing them up, adapting them to the chosen occasion.  I used Papertrey Ink's Cupcake Collection die for this project.  

I wanted this cupcake to feel fairytale-ish...leaving the occasion open for a little girl's birthday party, new baby, or wedding.  The sweet crown placed on top of the cupcake is a free download from Crafty Secrets...you can find it HERE.  I re-sized it to fit the top of my cupcake, colored it with some Copics, and stamped a sentiment inside the flag.

I used Crafty Secrets Card Sentiments and Message on a Bottle Clear Art Stamps on this project along with the new Double Sided Love Mail Creative Scraps for the banner and cupcake.

The flower is from Petaloo, trinket pin from Maya Road, tea stained trim is from my own stash, and the scrunched seam binding is from Kimberly.

I can't wait to see what beautiful things the other designers have to share today:

Vicki Chrisman Team Leader 

Pam Hooten 
Heidi Blankenship 
Linda Duke 
Michele Kovack 
Flo Teixeira from France 
Julie Campbell 
Mary Hamer

Now for a couple of fun Happy Monday giveaways!  I was recently asked to take part in a new special issue from Scrapbook & Cards Today....I just got a peek at it and can't wait to dig into the inside when it arrives.  It's based on card sketches designed by Becky Fleck....ooooohhhh....this was so much fun.  That sweet card on the cover is by Roree Rumph...I adore her happy, playful, freshly squeezed card style.

CardMaps Today will be available on March 25th, and you can pre-order your copy HERE.   If  you'd like to win one of the first copies, Scrapbook & Cards Today is giving one away on their blog...just leave a comment HERE!

Lastly....you might notice a new look here on my blog....sigh...it was time for a rescue effort and my sweet friend all the way in Singapore came to my aid just in time...thank you to Viola Mahr for redesigning my blog for me....I love, love, love it.

Vio has generously offered to share one of her custom made blog banners to one of you my friends!  She has a few in her etsy shop now and the banner on her blog is one of her own designs....this will help you get a feel for how very talented she is....her style speaks to my shabby heart.

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post....I'll give you until Wednesday, March 2nd...10:00 a.m....or thereabouts...you know me...I'm not going to be stingy.  I'll choose a winner randomly that evening and will post the good news on my blog.  I wish I had a prompt question for you to answer....but I'm fresh out of ideas and anxious to get to work this morning...so whatever thoughts cross your mind and you'd like to share...we'd love to hear.  Thank you Miss Vio!

 

Enjoy a beautiful Monday!

Melis

 

happy is the heart...

Some weekend love for you....as I mentioned in my last post, Emma's Paperie is celebrating its 4th birthday and the designers were challenged to create birthday themed workshops for the event to share with you all.

I created a cupcake party ensemble for my workshop using Little Yellow Bicycle goodies, Melissa Frances, Maya Road, and others.  I've got instructions waiting for you HERE on the Emma's Paperie blog.

Supplies used can be found HERE along with the other designer's super sweet ensemble, favors, mini albums, cards, etc.  Hope you'll find a bit of inspiration there.

Thanks for visiting!

Melis

 

a matter of the heart...

Forgive my lack of experience when it comes to sharing a video with  you.......I tried to embed it so you could view it from my blog....I'll keep working on it, but if you'll click on the link above, you can view it there.....just a little something I ran across the other morning....things my heart needed to hear, and perhaps your heart too.  

I brought the biggest feeling of comfort and peace into my day...reassuring words that we all need to hear from time to time.

This card was created for Emma's Paperie based on a sketch there.  All of the supplies are listed HERE for you....sweet Creative Imaginations, Petaloo, Crafty Secrets, etc.

If you're up for some fun this weekend, Emma's Paperie is celebrating another birthday and on Saturday February 26th from 9 to 9, there will be prizes, surprises, designer workshops, and other fun happenings...hope you'll stop by.

And...before I go...I've decided to start up our Creative Mint challenges again...I'm really so excited to jump in again and let Leslie's photographs inspire me....and you too!

For me, I'd love to post the challenge photo on Friday of each week....just as often as I can, but you know how life is....if you can be flexible with me, I will try my best to keep this going.  There isn't any deadline...no pressure, no limitations, no right or wrong, just fun and inspiration gained from Leslie and one another.  Just post a link in my comment section to your project (card, layout, mini album, altered item, gift, etc.) and then I hope we'll all be able to hop around and visit one another.  If you don't have a blog or gallery and would still like to participate, just send me an email and we'll think up a plan.

Our Creative Mint challenge for today is below:

(Photo courtesy of Leslie at A Creative Mint)

(Photo courtesy of Leslie at A Creative Mint)

(Photo courtesy of Leslie at A Creative Mint)

Ok, ok....so you see, I couldn't just choose one photo for this challenge....we've got to send February off with a wonderful goodbye....so, take what you want from these three photos...and enjoy every minute creating.

Post your projects in the comment section of this post whenever you get it done...can't wait, can't wait to get started on mine.

Happy weekend!

Melis


 

blogging bits...

On blogging....I have received a few emails lately asking me about my blogging experience, how to begin, where to start, how to grow....I'll do my very best to answer those questions here...but, please remember, I am learning myself.

I love my little blog...it's where I turn to share, write, dream, think, connect, hope, learn, and cherish....I think of it as a nest...with bits of creativity, love, thoughts, sorrows,  and friendships woven throughout holding it together.

I think that the original purpose behind a blog was to be an online journal of sorts, and I embraced that purpose, but in a way that has been suitable and comfortable to me... I've chosen to not be super open about personal matters here on my blog...I want to be careful to not put too much of myself out there for others to judge and use to their own advantage.  It's my happy place, a place I drift to at the end of the day when my body is tired, but my mind is ever so ready to think back on the day and appreciate all of life's miracles.  Or...a place I come to in the morning when my house is quiet and my mind and body are refreshed and ready to dream and create.  My blog is what I want it to be....and for the most part, it has been such a wonderful, positive experience.  I think it's important to make your blog your own....if you love something and are passionate about it...then share it in your own way...there is no right or wrong in something that belongs to you.  

Sadly, there will be critics...something I have caught a painful glimpse of lately...comments made, groups formed, and incredibly hurtful and cruel behavior modeled....I can't let it stop me from doing what I love, even though I have considered it and find myself doing so every day.  Please remember to rise above the negativity...to be a light for others to look to...share your creativity,...for I believe creativity in any form adds beauty to a world that is a very dark place to live in sometimes.  Their words will hurt...just like they did when we were younger...I don't think that ever changes....but please don't let those words change who you are...unfortunately, it is part of the world we live in.  

I think you should have as much fun photographing your creations as you do making them.  After all, your photographs are essentially a first impression of sorts...so try different lighting, different backdrops, different times of the day when the lighting will accentuate your projects.  I don't believe that an expensive camera is necessary...just take the time to try different approaches to photographing your items.  I have a room that gathers in wonderful light and all I do is set up a chair, drape a white sheet over it, and direct the blinds in such a way that the light isn't too blaring, but soft enough to add a natural brightness...it took me a while to find the perfect setup.  Oh....and I think that natural lighting really brings out the best in your photographs....I haven't used my flash in years.

I remember when I first started blogging....I engaged in online challenges, sketch challenges, color inspiration, photo inspiration, etc.  Posting my work in online galleries here and there was a wonderful way to get my feet wet as well.  It was such a great way to get to know others...network a  bit, and that led to a bit more exposure.  

I recently read an article in the Feb/Mar/Apr 2011 Artful Blogging (another wonderful resource to learn about bloggers and their personal experiences).  I thought I would share a bit with you as I found it to be an article suitable to the topic today.   Nancy Lefko shares how she came to grow her friendships and blogging connections.  She participated and still engages in art challenges by the month, week, and day.  Not only was she able to connect with others, but was also inspired to try new things....something I would love to make time for as well.  If you get a chance to read the entire article, I know you'll find something perfect for yourself and your individual circumstances.

I thought I'd share a few of my favorite challenge blogs and resources with you before I wrap it up tonight:

The Shabby Tea Room, Moxie Fab World, Card Positioning Systems, Got Sketch, Create blog, Papertrey Ink's Monthly Blog Hop, Scrapbook Calls, The Color Room, and something I'd love to get started again...our A Creative Mint photo challenge....stay tuned for more on that.

I would love to hear, as I'm sure others would as well....what your favorite challenge blogs are.  If you wouldn't mind sharing them as you leave a comment, they'll all be visible for everyone to enjoy.

Before I go, the vintage images used above are from Crafty Secrets new Love Mail Creative Scraps....they are the sweetest things and in my favorite colors too.  The trinket pin is from Viola Mahr, scrunched seam binding from Kimberly Tracy, paper from Melissa Frances and Creative Imaginations, tea stained heart doily from The Little Pink Studio, chipboard heart circle from American Crafts, and then of course a bit of tea stained twill.

Thanks so much for visiting, and if I can help you in any way, please let me know and I will be happy to help.

Night.

Melis 

 

 

gatherings kits...

Something new coming to my etsy....these little handmade Gathering Kits...

Hand stamped button cards embellished with flowers, trims, trinket pins, vintage paper, etc.  

They can be used as tags, as scrapbook or card embellishments....

 

Or as in this case, the embellishments are not adhered and you can use the trim, flowers, trinket pins, and leaf to your own liking.

Buttons, doily die cuts, and other sweet gatherings are hidden inside.

I hope to have them up on a regular basis....they will each be unique and will contain different items, but each kit will be filled with handmade favorites from me.

If  you'd like to make your own, I used Papertrey Ink's Button Boutique and Fillable Frames Additions 1 stamp sets, Button Card and the Double Ended Banner dies.  Vintage receipt paper, bookprint, and trims, satin angel wings, millinery flower, and other bits and bobs.

Thanks for visiting.

Melis

P.S.  If you've ordered a pincushion...they are shipping towards the end of this week...so stay tuned for your lovely lady to be delivered to your home.  Thank you!

 

home baked comfort...

Snow  day today...something we've all been excited about...I love to be inside where it's warm and toasty, while it's snowy and wet outside.  My little one and husband spent the day outside on an adventure today...pulling traps for the season...and having a little one on one time.  

The fire is burning...Baked Potato Soup on the stove and Applesauce Chocolate Chip Cookies in the oven...comforts of home...acts of love for my little family to help them feel safe and secure here at home...in a world that lacks so much love and gentleness.  Everyone deserves a place where they fill loved...accepted...and completely safe...a haven and refuge from the storms that stir around us.

I mentioned the speckled eggs in the Friendship Jar Spring Fillers....I adore them...and couldn't wait to give them a try...and also practice up a bit on my puny Copic Skills....one day maybe I'll get them figured out...but it's always fun to try.

Along with the Friendship Jar, and Friendship Jar Spring Fillers stamp sets, I also used the Jar and Lid, Jar Label, Jar Toppers, and Doily Details Collection dies.   The bookprint, doily, and cream trim are vintage, paper from Melissa Frances, and scrunched seam binding from Craft Spot by Kimberly.

One last little item created for Emma's Paperie this month...our theme being "Antique or Vintage inspired"...

 

A complete supply list and the other designer's beautiful creations are waiting HERE on the Emma's Paperie blog.

Night.

Melis

 

 

thinking spring...

It all started with pastel, candy hearts...marshmallow filled this and that...a sunny day here and there...a breeze that was soft enough to fly a kite in...a cloudless day...a walk outside with her hand in mine...and...all of the sudden, spring has sprung in my heart and mind...picnics, clotheslines, gardens, wild flowers, cactus blooms, bike rides....I love it all.

Speckled eggs...

Birds nests...

Flowers and sprinkles...

Bunnies, marshmallow, and chocolate...

(The above photos from Williams-Sonoma)

(Photo from Belle & Boo)

Wishing you a breeze...perfect for flying a kite in.

On the menu tonight:  Chicken Enchiladas, fresh, green salad with homemade Ranch dressing, Cilantro Lime Rice, and Chocolate Chip Raisin Cookies for dessert.

Melis

 

Love You card

Supplies Used:
Papertrey Ink Aqua Mist cardstock, Friendship Jar Spring Fillers, Friendship Jar,  and 2010 Love Tags stamp sets, Jar and Lid, Jar Label, and Jar Toppers dies.

Making Memories and Basic Grey paper, tea-stained twill tape, American Crafts chipboard heart, and Copics.

 

 

the butter to my bread...

Happy Post-Valentine's Day....hoping you had hugs and kisses, sugar cookies and sprinkles, hearts and flowers, candlelight and music, and of course....some chocolate!

Let's see....my little Valentine turned into a monster right before dinner...had a major meltdown, perked up a bit for Family Home Evening and for the creating of some ooooey gooooey Love Bug cupcakes...digested way too much sugar right before bedtime....and finally passed out in her bed at 10:00....at that time, my husband and I started a movie, got all snugly, and  I immediately fell asleep on the couch...he said I made it about 10 minutes :)  We are such romantics!

He surprised me with the cutest new, pink cell phone...I can text now!  Try not to laugh too hard...but I'm NOT a texter....I've been refusing to give in...prefer to talk on the phone...even by email, but heaven's NO...no texting for me.  But, alas...how can I resist a sweet, pink cell phone with a darling little keyboard and teensy tiny keys?  I won't...I'm giving in...but just occasionally....you know, to drop my husband a dorky message that will make him laugh in the middle of the day.  He's so good to me...what would I ever do without him?

OK....enough of that...on to the Papertrey Ink parade of new release projects!  This first creation uses Mish Wooderson's Friendship Jar Spring Fillers stamp set....I'm addicted...I can't stop making things with it 'cause it's sooooooo cute.  I've got to try out the speckled egg image next...I do so love speckled eggs.  You can also spy her new Button Boutique set here as well along with a Doily Details Collection die.  

Next up....a trio of tag using the new Hello Friend, Background Basics:  Newsprint, and Bitty Background Blocks stamp sets.  

I also used the new Tag Sale #2 die, Friendly Flower, Button Card Collection, Buttoned Up #1 and #2, Doily Details Collection, and Delightful Dahlias dies.  

This trio of cards uses the new Background Basics:  Newsprint, Mat Stack 4 Collection, and Tag-its #1 stamp sets.  

The dies used are Mat Stack 4, Buttoned Up #2, and Doily Details Collection.  

This card uses the new Flower Fusion #1 stamp set and coordinating die, and the new and ever so lovely Edgers #2 die.  

The Fillable Frames Addtions 1 stamp set is featured here along with Background Basics:  Newsprint.  The Fillable Frames #4 die is used here as well as the Edgers #2 die.    

Lastly, a card featuring the new Think Big Favorites #1 and Delightful Doilies stamp sets.  I also used the Delightful Doilies die collection here are well as the Love Lives Here die.

Time to go figure out what to make for dinner....maybe some soup tonight.

Enjoy your day!

Melis 

 

doily details...

Happy Sunday eve...welcome to Papertrey Ink's second group post for February...tonight we're highlighting the new doily line up of products available on February 15th...and there's a fun giveaway waiting for one lucky winner.  All you have to do is hunt for the doily image...that may or may not be on my photo below....and on each of the other design team member's blog as well.  Count them up and submit your answer by commenting on Nichole's blog....a very lucky individual will receive a hefty, beautiful doily product prize package!

This spring-ish little number uses the new Parisian Lace Doily Die and the Doily Details die collection...you will just adore them I tell you...they are as sweet as can be.

I also used the new Tag-Its #1 stamp collection here as well, layered on top of two of the Doily Details dies.

This next card uses the new Delightful Doilies stamp set and coordinating dies....incredibly fun to use with endless possibilities.  I first used the stamp set to create a background on my cardstock base by stamping the doilies in two different sizes using Plum Pudding Ink.....this sweet set reminds me of my grandma.

I die cut the doily shape, stamped it using Smokey Shadow ink, distressed the edges with ink, and then coated it with Lily White Sugar Coating.

Now...off you go hunting for more hidden doily images....here are some beautiful links for you to follow and enjoy.

I'm so glad you dropped in for a visit!

Betsy Veldman, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Lisa Johnson, Mish Wooderson, Danielle Flanders, Maile Belles, Erin Lincoln, Jess Witty, and Nichole Heady.

 

 

bake, pray, create...

I've been enjoying time with my little one and husband lately...it seems life has been on hold a bit while we've waited and nursed my little one back to her sweet, happy self again.  We decided to take a tiny road trip together...just to be swallowed up in each other for a while...over to visit Grandma and Grandpa...to deliver their homemade Valentine treats...crafty things for my mom, Raisin Filled Cookies for my dad.  I love to bake and create...and to do it with special people in mind, makes it a treat for me....very comforting and joyful. And...they are two of the sweetest people I could possibly have as my parents...I love them so much.

I only have a minute to share today...I've got the bug to clean and de-clutter and I had better take hold of that desire and run with it.  First on my list is my craft room...all shiny and bright now, with projects waiting for my attention.

I created this little shabby tag trio for Emma's Paperie this month.  It is based on a color challenge there...one that I find so tasty and warm...deep chocolate, raspberry, powdery white, baby pink, and touches of green.  

I've got a complete supply list waiting for you HERE at Emma's Paperie, so you can shop and create to your heart's content.

And, lastly....another little something based on a new color palette at The Color Room...ohhhh, I love it so...it whispers that spring is near.

This card uses the new Button Boutique stamp set...available on February 15th, the Love Lives Here die collection, and the Little Bitty Bird stamp set. 

I also used new Basic Grey paper and cardstock sticker, a trinket pin from Viola Mahr's etsy shop, a Melisa Frances cardstock sticker, Tattered Angels chipboard frame coated with Celery paint from Krylon, Mica Flakes, and scrunched seam binding from Kimberly Tracy.  

Hope your day is warm and bright...my little one and I will be outside in the sunshine today for sure.

Melis

 

button boutique...

Welcome to the first Papertrey Ink group post of February!  Just a warning to issue tonight regarding the new stamp set we're highlighting....it's incredibly addictive....completely fun to use...and offers up oh, so many sweet and unique possibilities.  I found myself thinking over and over again just how much fun I was having stamping with this set...it truly is incredibly innovative and irresistible....like nothing I have ever seen or used before!

  

The Button Boutique stamp set was designed by Nichole Heady and Mish Wooderson...think vintage button cards and buttons, sewing with grandma, thread, needles, and tomato pincushions...all things cozy, homespun, and that speak of love, family, and life together.

I used the Button Boutique stamp set and coordinating die to create a mini, mini album of my little lady.  I thought it would make a perfect Valentine gift for Grandma.  

 

Each ready-made button card could easily be used as card or scrapbook  embellishments...the pictures are ready for Grandma to use as well...any way she pleases....or by simply untying the bow that connects each page, the button cards and photos string out perfectly to create a banner for her craft room...and now I want one too :)

You'll also notice the new Bitty Background Blocks used here and there throughout the button cards....mmmmm....I adore them, and they work perfectly with the button card theme.

I think I shall never stop loving this set and all of the creative uses it holds....I've already got project number two floating about in my mind.

Another ready-made card embellie....

Trims for Grandma to use and enjoy...

And, so many other sweet treats waiting inside.

I used Papertrey Ink Rustic Cream, Spring Moss, and Ocean Tides cardstock, Dark Chocolate, Ocean Tides, Spring Moss, Ripe Avocado, and Melon Berry ink.  The tea-stained crochet heart and red flower applique were sent to me by my friend Cerri...you can find so many sweet goodies in her shop, The Little Pink Studio.

I can't wait to start browsing through the other designer's blogs....enjoy and thanks for stopping by!

Betsy Veldman, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Lisa Johnson, Mish Wooderson, Danielle Flanders, Maile Belles, Erin Lincoln, Jess Witty, and Nichole Heady.

 

color me pink...

Hi everyone!  Welcome to another fun Papertrey Ink anniversary challenge.  Each design team member has selected their all-time favorite Papertrey Ink color combination. You get to select your favorite combo and set to work creating a lovely little number using those colors.  Be sure to check out Nichole's blog to find out all of the details...the prize is to die for colorful!

I tried my very hardest to stay away from pink....but when it came right down to it, I just couldn't deny my love for Sweet Blush, Vintage Cream, Hibiscus Burst, Spring Moss, and Ripe Avocado..they are so lovely to me all bunched up together in one big hug....sooooo....enjoy your time creating...let the wonderful color combinations found on Nichole's blog inspire you.  I know I'll be trying some new palettes.

The above card uses the Flower Garden and Paper Tray stamp sets, Spring Moss grosgrain, and Kraft cardstock.  I also used Melissa Frances paper and cardstock sticker, vintage newsprint, and a Maya Road trinket pin.

I'm off to tuck a little bug into her bed.

Night!

Melis

 

the happiest mama...

She's back....my little one....what a great day we've had together.  Today marks the first day in 10 that she's been up and about...had a smile on her face...color in her sweet cheeks...and has been full of loves and kisses....I am so happy and have missed my little bean.  When they tell you 10-14 days for recovery, they aren't kidding and I know we'll still have some rough moments ahead, but I am so very tickled and happy today.

We are currently spoiling our dinner with homemade Orange Julius, watching Herbie Goes Bananas, daddy has just built us a fire, and life couldn't be better at the moment.  I think we'll even try a couple of hours tomorrow at church, as she's missed her little friends so much.  I was able to make a trip into town today and it felt wonderful just to get out....sigh....how very thankful I am!

If you're following along with the Papertrey Ink anniversary celebration, today brings you another challenge, with one of the SWEETEST most rewarding prizes I have ever heard of...truly a gift I think.

All you have to do to be eligible to enter is the following:

• Create a project using one of the stamp images available for download on Nichole's blog.
•  Link your creation in the comment section for today's post on Nichole's blog.
• One randomly selected customer will get to work with Nichole creating a new stamp set for Papertrey Ink.

How fun, yes??

The card I created above uses one of the tags available for download...free for you to use along with so many others designed by the 2011 Papertrey Ink Stamp Designers.  The tag I used was designed by Miss Heather Nichols....I'm a sucker for anything her creative mind dreams up.

I also used Heather's Little Bitty Bird stamp set on this card along with Spring Moss cardstock, Ripe Avocado Ink, and a Vintage Cream button. 

The scrunched seam binding is from a new company that found me so very graciously...the trinket pin from Viola Mahr,  bitty pink millinery flower from the Little Pink Studio (I love you Cerri!), chipboard from Maya Road, flowers from Petaloo, and paper from Fancy Pants, Prima, and American Crafts.

Off to make Spaghetti with marinara sauce and soft bread sticks...we'll see if anyone feels like eating around here tonight :)

Have a lovely Sunday!

Melis

 

papertrey favorites...

Happy Hoopla everyone!  Let the Papertrey Anniversary festivities begin!

To kick things off, Nichole has asked each of the designers to pick our favorite Papertrey Ink projects from last year and blog about them.  We've all given her our supply lists and instructions for our chosen projects and she's got them ready for you as downloads on her blog.

My favorite project from 2010 was this little card and tag ensemble using the Signature Series:  Dress Form stamp set designed by Dawn McVey.

 

I was instantly smitten upon seeing the dress form image....knowing a coordinating die was available made the images dancing in my head even more doable...I adore this set.

Ahhhhh...but there are many other products used in this ensemble that I find myself reaching for quite often....the Banner Border die collection (I've started cutting a number of these from my vintage sheet music stash...they are so wonderful to have on hand), the Fillable Frames #4 die (always such a wonderful, versatile, and trendy shape), and the Mat Stack 4 die (another trendy and timeless shape...and it stacks so wonderfully well with other dies).  

Last, but certainly not least....supplies that I must have a hefty supply of....Vintage Cream and Sweet Blush buttons...my two most favorite colors...and they are so delicious together. Tied ever so dutifully to the center of a bow with Rustic Cream Button Twine....and my project is complete.

I wanted to share just a couple of other Papertrey Ink projects that hold special meaning for me as well...just for fun...

Silver in the Sky....a page about my little sweet pea...I don't do pages too often, but find that I enjoy them more than words can say when I've lost myself in the middle of one....

This project uses the Mini Scrapbook Series:  Tabs stamp set and dies....love, love, love...

And lastly...

Another project centered around the little bean that keeps me centered...my Lunch Box Love Notes project using the Top 10 and Top 10 Additions stamp sets.  

I hope you're in the mood to do some hopping around tonight as all of the designers have special posts prepared just for you:

Mish Wooderson
Heather Nichols
Betsy Veldman
Dawn McVey
Erin Lincoln
Lisa Johnson
Maile Belles
Jessica Witty
Debbie Olson

and...Nichole Heady!

Oh, and please, please don't forget to read all about the Ultimate Card Kit giveaway on Nichole's blog....she is always so generous with her Anniversary treats and this one is a big, fatty $700 treat!  

Thanks for visiting....now and always.  It sure has been a wonderful year with Papertrey Ink and I can't wait for another!

Melis

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

Paper Smooches Co-Hop

Have you heard?

Kim Hughes opened a stamp company on February 1st called Paper Smooches!  On The first day of every month, she is releasing 3 new whimsical and fun, clear stamp sets that she hand draws.

Kim asked me to create a card using one of her February stamp sets.  I used  Falling for You on today's card.

She offers high quality photopolymer clear stamps, shaped card templates, a design center and so much more.

There will be a monthly challenge on the The Paper Smooches Blog.  (Free digi stamps are involved.)  Participants will be eligible to be a guest designer for the following month.

Here is a list of some of the Industry's top designers who are also playing with some Paper Smooches Stamps today:

Michele Boyer
Alli Miles
Lori Craig
Julie Campbell
Carole Burrage
Karolyn Loncon
Kim Kesti
Betsy Veldman
Maren Benedict
Debbie Olson
Melissa Phillips
Carly Robertson
Julia Stainton
Becky Olsen
Teri Anderson
Kyrssi Ng
Heidi Van Laar
Heather Pulvirenti
Laurie Schmidlin
Lisa Johnson
Lori Barnett
Jessica Witty
Asela Hopkins
Rae Barthel

Please help me welcome Paper Smooches Stamps!

Aren't the sweet?
Melis 

kisses while she sleeps...

I truly have never been so tired in all of my life....I do believe there is light at the end of the tonsil tunnel though...I can't wait to feed my little bean chicken nuggets,  pizza, shrimp and pasta, and most of all....popcorn.  The poor bean has been asking for some every day...that's all she wants...and I can't give it to her.  I just about gave in today as she broke down in tears....with her sweet little blood shot eyes peering into mine...begging me for mercy.  I couldn't do it though...it feels like it would be pure torture. We're going to celebrate late next week and eat real food...she started crying once again today because she wanted to eat food that she was used to eating....I can't blame her. The Root Beer Popsicles just aren't cutting it...I'd be cranky too.

Tonight I thought I'd share a little something that came in the mail that brought a smile to my face...who knows, maybe you'll want one too....how can we pink, glittery, shabby girls resist?

I splurged on the Making Memories Je t'Adore collection...but this sweet little box of delicious treats was my favorite finding...it's the Je t' Adore Embellishment box....I think you deserve one too...yep, cause I'm sweet like that.

Let's see...this magazine...one of my very most favorite reads was sent to me by my friend Kolleen...such a thoughtful gesture...thank you Kolleen.

I have enjoyed reading about The Fancy Farm Girl, Sharon Derry, Diana Card, Debbie Egizio, and so many others.    It's been a wonderful way to relax at the end of a few long days.

I've got to keep plugging away tonight and get crafty, but before I go I wanted to share a few more Melissa Frances catalog and booth  projects with you.

The beautiful satin flower, flower sprigs, pom pom trim, bling,  cardstock sticker, and flashcard...all new from Melissa Frances....

More new cardstock stickers and dies shown here on the Postcard Album.

New Attic Treasures stickers...

More 5th Avenue stickers....

All of these beautiful papers, stickers and dies were designed for Melissa Frances by Sherelle Christensen...I adore her and her work...oh, and her chicken coop.

You can view the entire Melissa Frances catalog showing all of her lovelies in their entirety HERE.  

Don't forget to leave a comment on the Melissa Frances blog to be entered to win some of these new and oh, so beautiful products.

Well...off I go to check on my little beauty....give her kisses while she sleeps and prepare for another day as her mama.  I do so love being hers.

Night.

Melis