Cassie's Craft Corner

NEW BLOG ADDRESS

2011-11-29T07:20:00.000-05:00

Hello Family, Friends, and Fellow Crafters. Although I'm still working out the kinks, my new blog is just about there. If you have a moment, please follow me at Cassie's Craft Cafe. I'll be uploading new projects this week.

COMING BACK SOON

2011-11-14T10:00:00.002-05:00

Hello fellow crafters. I had no idea the last time my blog was updated was back in September. I've had a lot going on and tons of projects in between, BUT, I will be up and running and from a new blog location soon!

Wedding Layout

2011-09-19T06:26:00.001-04:00

I had a small break from my busy life this weekend and it was much needed. There is always lots to do and not enough time to do it all. When one project is over, another is already under way. Over at Platinum Scraps this week, we had to create a LO, using the sketch below, from PageMaps.

Here is my take on it:

Baby Shower Gifts

2011-09-07T00:03:00.000-04:00

I can't tell you all how swamped I've been with projects. In a good way though and mostly business. Here is a gift for a Scrapper/Friend/Mommy to be.

Vinyl Onesis

This very same friend has also abandoned traditional scrapbooks for digital, but I told her I was going to reel her back in. As a matter of fact, the baby has several 8x8 traditional pages, that she's done, of sonnogram pictures. I think he and I together will bring her back in. I started by making her a paperbag album:

Gift Baskets

2011-08-22T13:32:00.000-04:00

Yesterday at church, we closed out our annual women's day season with our Women in White service. Each year, I like to make something special for a few women whom God would lead me to bless. I made four of these baskets:

During our Women's Retreat, one of the speakers advised us to get rid of any journals that contained negative memories and for us to start a Joyful Journal from that point forwared. I used my cinch to bind the book.

Post-It Note Holders. These were created using a sizzix die.

Birthday Easel Card

2011-08-21T08:07:00.000-04:00

Another challenge complete. This week Celebrate the Occasion, challenged their followers to create a Birthday Easel card. Although this technique has been out for awhile, this is my very first time doing it. I was instantly hooked! I created 2 more following this one.

Vinyl Tumblers & Water Bottle Take 2

2011-08-13T23:06:00.002-04:00

Another busy week for me. The orders for Tumblers and Water Bottles just keep coming; among all the other things happening in my life. I'm sending some special love to my Mom who ordered 2 for shipment to CT. Thanks Mommy!

Finally, the Elephant Wedding Program has been delivered and the Nuptials took place today. I did tell my craft family that although this was a lot of work, there wasn't anything super fancy about it. The bride is a Delta and wanted something different. Special thanks to my hubby, daughter, Lisa, Yani, Chante, Karen, and Femi(Karen's hubby) who each had a role in getting all 250 programs completed.

Today, the Church's Youth Group went out on our monthly outing, to see the Smurfs. The movie was really good and the kids had a blast. Oh wait, so did the adults. We giggled like little girls. After my daughter saw Papa Smurf last week, she asked for (file on mardenz.blogspot.com):

Bridal Shower Gift:

And lastly, I've been waiting to put my Fancy Frames cricut cartridge to use. My sole purpose of getting this cart was to use on vinyl projects.

Vinyl Tumblers and Water Bottles

2011-08-07T21:33:00.000-04:00

I didn't have any spare time to participate in challenges this week. I am deep in the final stages of 250 elephant shaped wedding programs. I handed off 200 this evening to my friend to tie bows. I only have 50 left to print, which means another 150 pages. There is nothing complicated about the program, just layers upon layers, upon layers.

To keep my sanity, I took an hour break to fill some tumbler orders.

1) Lakers is for my husband. I was supposed to make this the minute I tried vinyl for the first time, but a few orders came in quickly. He was smiling from ear to ear. He sent me back to my corner to add the jersey numbers of some of their greatest players. Lakers logo was an image file that I broke apart using SCAL.

2) Cowboys belongs to my big brother. His birthday is Wednesday and this will not be making it to the post office in time.

3) Papa Smurf belongs to my dad for his birthday next week. It's going to be filled with Tootsie Rolls. He and I watched the Smurfs together faithfully on Saturday mornings from 9a - 10:30a. He took the grandkids to see the movie. This is an svg file that I downloaded from Mardenz Blog.

4) Tumbler. Turtle is a cricut cut.

CTO Challenge 23

2011-07-30T22:00:00.001-04:00

I am so swamped with tumblers, water bottles, and wedding programs, that I barely have time to see the floor in my scraproom. Seriously, it was crazy in here. I just spent the last hour reminding myself that there is carpet underneath it all. Now it's fairly clean. In between wedding programs, I took a second to participate in the Blue & White Challenge over at Celebrate the Occasion.

I made a Christmas Party Favor:

Platinum Scraps Team A July LO 2

2011-07-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

The Layouts are in full effect this week at Platinum Scraps. The Design Team had to create a layout, using inspiration from this sketch by Sketchy Thursdays:

Here's my take on it:

Invite and Place Cards

2011-07-17T20:42:00.000-04:00

There is a bulletin board at work that I get to decorate from time to time. Nothing big but a place to post pictures of our events. But, once a year on my 9 - 5, I get to put my love for scrapbooking to use for a few days and get paid for it! We have an Employee of the Year awards ceremony and I'm always part of the decoration committee. This year, I volunteered to do the programs because I was tired of the same old style (8.5 X 11 paper folder in half). The top honoree chose the colors black, white, and fuschia, mixed with her love for shoes.

Christmas in July 2

2011-07-17T19:31:00.002-04:00

Over at Celebrate the Occasion this week, they are still celebrating Christmas in July. This week, you had to create a shaped card. I kept my entry simple since I have yet to get a handle on making holiday cards this early. Here is my entry:

Not sure if you can tell, but the snowflake has been embossed using the Swiss Dots Cuttlebug folder, and the tips of the snowflake have diamond stickles on them.

Platinum Scraps July Team B Card Sketch

2011-07-11T08:15:00.000-04:00

I decided to hang out with Team B over at Platinum Scraps this week. The challenge was to create a card using this sketch from Pagemaps.

Here's my take on it:

Christmas in July

2011-07-10T22:48:00.001-04:00

Over at Celebrate the Occasion this week, it's Christmas in July. The catch, you cannot use red. I hardly ever make my Christmas cards with red (only once in 5 years), so this was a piece of cake. Minus the fact, that I can't even think about Christmas cards this time of year. Here is my challenge entry:

Try it out Thursday!!

2011-07-07T21:43:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday Eve!!!! For my weekly followers, you may remember I've mentioned my "Things to try" in 2011 list. At the beginning of the year, that list included 2 things: Tshirt Vinyl and Glass Etching. Over the last few months, you know I have fallen in love with tshirt vinyl. So, this post checks off the other "try" item of the year; glass etching. I watched my friend Lisa tackle this before my very eyes. She was so patient and cautious as it was her first time. A few trials and she got it. I thought, "oh Lord, do I really want to do this." Yes, I must check it off my list. So, below is my first attempt. I had a few slips of the vinyl and I"ve never been a painter, but tadaaaaaa...

Ingredients: Cricut Machine, Armour Etching Cream, foam brush, skinny vase, white vinyl, thick popsicle stick, and transfer tape.

Now, we are 6 months away from a new year and my 2011 list has grown by 2 more techniques: Paperbag Album (which I've done 4 already) and something with canvas. Stay tuned for that one..

Platinum Scraps Team A July LO 1

2011-07-04T10:00:00.001-04:00

Layouts, oh layouts, wherefore art thou layouts? It seems like forever since I completed a layout. Especially one I actually intend on using in an album. This week at Platinum Scraps, Team A had to create a layout, using the following sketch from PageMaps:

Here is my take on it:

Be sure to hop on over to Platinum Scraps to see what my fellow designers did with the same sketch.

More Vinyl Tshirts

2011-07-03T22:15:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow we celebrate the Indpendence of America. What I also love about this holiday, is seeing the sky all lit up with fireworks. Luckily for my kids, we get to hang at PaPa's house where we are able to light out own fireworks as soon as the night sky arrives.

All I wanted to do this weekend was relax. I did just that but I had a few projects that had to be finished and delivered today; especially since I just got 10 more water bottle / tumbler orders today, for my church fundraiser.

Vinyl for days....

2011-06-17T06:37:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday Bloggers!!!!!

I've been quite busy over the last 2 weeks. I am part of a fundraising team at church and for my project, decided to sell water bottles. I'm having fun with all this vinyl but that means nothing else is getting done. The men in my life will be shocked if they open a store bought card for Father's Day but it's looking likely. LOL!!!

Along with the fundraisers, I'm also in the final stages of planning my church's annual women's retreat. The committee had their final meeting yesterday. Every year, the committee donates gifts to use as giveaway prizes during the retreat. Since I was already playing with vinyl, I kept right at it and made 2 tumblers as my giveaway. The image is our logo this year along with our theme.

Thanks for stopping by and have a GREAT weekend!

BLOG CANDY WINNER ANNOUNCED!!!

2011-06-08T21:29:00.000-04:00

I really enjoyed the comments that were posted. Thanks for stopping by. Using random.org, the winner is:

shersl84bed who said...
My favorite times spent with my dad were fishing in the boat.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!
Please email cassiecropcorner@yahoo.com with your mailing info.

Platinum Scraps Team A June LO

2011-06-06T08:10:00.000-04:00

This week's layout sketch was designed by Leialoha of Platinum Scraps. I haven't done an interactive layout in a while, and as soon as I saw the file folder, an idea quickly came to mind.

CTO Challenge #16

2011-06-05T22:14:00.000-04:00

"School's Out" over at Celebrate the Occasion this week. I'm sure kids and teachers are counting down everywhere. I'm counting down to a long summer homework break. Homework wiped me out this school year. Anyway, here's is my challenge entry (guidelines stated that an apple must be present)"

150 Followers....BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY

2011-06-04T16:12:00.000-04:00

Happy Saturday Everyone. Thanks to each and every one of you, I made it to 151 followers. I don't want to ever take you and the time you spend on my blog looking, getting an idea, or leaving comments. I appreciate it. Because I spent so much of last month celebrating me, I want to take this time to CELEBRATE YOU!!!!!

This month is Father's Day and those close to me will tell you, I am a true, certified, daddy's girl. For the majority of my life I was raised by a single parent... dear 'ol dad!!! I think my dad is the BEST in the world.

One of my favorite memories is seeing my dad sitting up front with his camera around his neck and tears in his eyes, as he watched his favorite child (yes, I said favorite and he agrees, just don't tell my brothers) march down Constitution Avenue, shaking my pom-poms or twirling my baton. He was so proud. What tickled me was this was an annual parade but he cried every year like it was the first time. I think by High School he was good.

One of my favorite pasttimes with my dad was watching Football and Basketball. He even sent a note to school saying I had an appt, so I could leave early to watch Georgetown in the NCAA tournament. Ahhhh, the good 'ol days.

On to the GIVEAWAY... I'm giving away the All Sports Cricut Cartridge.

Leave a comment telling me a favorite memory with your dad or a father figure in your life. I will pick a winner next Wednesday.

Still Celebrating!!!!

2011-05-28T21:18:00.000-04:00

Hello All,

Things have been busy in my world!! Yesterday, hubby and I celebrated our 11th Anniversary. Woohoo!!! We didn't do anything special, but we spent the entire day together. I also have 3 other married couple friends celebrating their anniversary this weekend as well. Here is a project ordered by one of the couples.

Now, about that RAK.. My life has really been on auto pilot this week, so my RAK will be coming next week. Have a GREAT holiday weekend!

Reason to Celebrate!!

2011-05-23T12:49:00.000-04:00

Hello friends and family!!! I was hoping to get some crafting finished over the weekend but.... Today is my BIRTHDAY!!! I spent all Friday running around in order to prepare for my get together on Saturday. Sunday, the family and I were invited to a friend's house for dinner. Today, I've been home all day watching movies. DVR is a beautiful thing because I never get to watch movies on a regular basis.

I was hoping to do a RAK today (my 1st blog ever), but I never made it back to the store in time to pick it up. But, I'd love to still know what is your favorite birthday memory? Stay tuned for a possible RAK later this week. This year I was able to spend time with a great group of a ladies, over Sunshine and Seafood!!! Yummy crabs and fried fish. LOL!!

Mother's Day Finale

2011-05-09T14:42:00.000-04:00

Most of the cards and gifts have been delivered, so I wanted to finally share a few of the other cards I made. Also adding in a paperbag album. This is my 2nd one and I didn't have pictures from before, so I made sure to snap them this time. I really enjoy making these and I wish I had a few more reasons to make more in the near future.

This week, I need to play catchup on 3 separate projects that were pushed to the side. Let's hope I conquer them by Saturday night.

My First Digital Layout

2011-05-03T06:12:00.000-04:00

As I continue on my quest of learning new things, I decided to try my hand at a digital layout. It seems strange to say that I have never done one in the 9 years that I've been scrapping. I really enjoyed giving this a shot and my Cover Girl in the photo made it easy.

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-01T08:19:00.000-04:00

Next week, Mother's will be honored everywhere. I hope that you all honor your Mother all year long and not just one Sunday in May.

On to my project. Yesterday, I had some friends over for a little scrapping. A month ago, I challenged two of them to pick something ahead of time and only bring those items. I also had to challenge myself, although all my supplies were in the house with me. We each chose our weapon and away we went. LOL!!! Of course, I chose Mother's Day and Vinyl. My project is playing along with Celebrate the Occassion this week. Now, let's just hope the recipients don't check my blog this week.

My project: Flameless Wax Candles

These were quite the challenge because the vinyl didn't go on so easy, even with transfer tape. I'm certain it was because of the wax but I kept at it. The large pieces of vinyl went on a lot easier. I attached the flowers, using a glue gun.

VIDEO: Using Tshirt Vinyl

2011-04-21T00:52:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone!!! I did tell you all I was obsessed with vinyl right? Well, a few people asked for a video so here it is. Warning, I kept saying tshirt throughout the video instead of onesis.

And guess what? I tried something new this week... A Paper Bag album. It's the for the Grandmother of the new baby on the way. Very adventurous project I started yesterday, considering the baby shower is Saturday. Oh well, back to the vinyl video.

Vinyl Onesis

2011-04-14T06:25:00.001-04:00

Good Morning All,

I'm still working on learning how to use vinyl. This week, I'm showing my imperfections as I continue to strive for excellence. I focused on onesis, with a baby shower clear on my radar.

#1) Image comes from Forever Young. I nearly screamed when the silver portion of the mirror moved as I put the iron down and, I couldn't get it back up. This is still one of my favorites though because of the font. The font was cut using SCAL. I hardly ever cut thin fonts because they tend to tear the paper, but I thought I would give it a try with vinyl.

#2) Princess cut is from the Hannah Montana Cricut cartridge. I love the glitter vinyl.

#3) The Duck was cut from New Arrival and the font using SCAL. I did fix it's beak, but the camera battery died before getting the final finish.

Along with a baby scrapbook gift, these are my projects for the week. Thanks for stopping by.

More Vinyl Tshirts

2011-04-08T07:28:00.000-04:00

Today is the last day of Spirit Week at the kids' school. It's TWIN day! The minute my daughter and her friend so the green tshirt, they were begging me to create one for them and their respective twin. Her friend even gave me the tshirts the next day. I was too tickled but felt so much love as all four girls really loved their shirts.

My daughter could not make up her mind what design she wanted. Every idea I gave her sounded good to her. This shirt came down to the wire and I mean with 5 minutes to spare for me to deliver to her classmate yesterday. I used the Hannah Montana cricut cartridge.

The pink shirt belongs to my daughter's bff and her twin. She wanted a heart with LUV. The heart is from Straight from the Nest and the letters from Storybook. Just in case it seems odd that BFFs aren't wearing the same shirt; they aren't in the same class this year.

I told you all I was addicted.

Try Something New Tuesday.

2011-04-05T08:52:00.000-04:00

I did it!! I did it! Two things on my list for 2011 to try are, tshirt vinyl and glass etching. I'm still scared of etching, so I tackled tshirts first. All I can say is, I am HOOKED!!! This was so much fun. I owe all this excitement to my friends Nicole @ Creative Delights by Nicole and NubianCrafterNC. These ladies are my vinyl Sheroes!!!

On to my project: I created this for my son, his friend, and his cousin. I am taking them out this weekend to celebrate my baby's 7th Birthday. My son is all about the music so I know he's going to love this shirt.

The drums were cut from Quarter Note (I got this cart just for him) and the title from Base Camp. Now, I need to go home and make the other 2.

Week Ending 04/03 - Challenge 2

2011-03-31T20:58:00.000-04:00

A friend handed me another picture of something she found while surfing the net. Although it wasn't a card, the minute I saw it, I knew I was going to make it a card. I got just the push I needed when I hopped on over to Two Scraptastic Gals. The Challenge this week was to create a project using Forever Young.

Although most of the dress is hidden by tulle and ribbon, I promise the dress is from Forever Young. Thanks for stopping by!

Week Ending 04/03 - Challenge 1

2011-03-31T20:40:00.000-04:00

It's time to get back on track and back with the challenges. The first challenge I completed this week is brought to you by Celebrate the Occasion. This week's theme is "New Home". I decided to do a shapebook because I purchased a Cinch. The lucky recipient can carry around a few pictures to show friends and family their new home. The house was cut from Handyman cricut cartridge..

WordBook...

2011-03-27T20:29:00.000-04:00

One of the things I love, is introducing someone to the world of scrapping. My daughter's friend came over in December for a lesson and was hooked. Last week, she celebrated her 12th Birthday and I jumped at the opportunity to create a special place where she could keep a few pictures from her party. She loved the gift and....... I was surprised to find out today that she didn't take any pictures at the skating rink. She's always taking photos with her phone. Inside the tag are slips of paper for her to write notes from her party on.

Faith's favorite colors are brown, green, blue, and white:

By the way, I binded this project with the Cinch, that I picked up yesterday. After using it for the first time, I wanted to toss the other one (not calling names) out the window!!!!!

Random Cards

2011-03-27T20:10:00.000-04:00

I meant to come back and post a few cards from my weekend getaway. These two were my favorite, so I'll add these:

1) This Rock On card is actually based on a engagement card a friend sent me. It wasn't actually a card, but a napkin for an engagement party.

2) This Get Well Card was an assignment I gave myself. I want to create at least 2 cards for various moments in life. The monkey was cut from New Arrival:

Time to Regroup....Page Layouts

2011-03-23T08:41:00.000-04:00

I think I have finally re-grouped from the 4-day crop I went to. I was very ambitious in what I wanted to accomplish. Although I didn't get it all done, I am happy with what I actually completed; especially an entire 8X8 album about my daughter's various hairstyles. That will always be a continuous project but I finished every picture I took with me. Maybe I'll share those later in the week.

I haven't done many layouts in a while, so I had to make that a priority on the trip. One of things I'm also working on is redoing a baby album that I gave as a gift. The parents thought they were having a girl, but She turned out to be a He!! Yes, I started doing the entire book over. I have another friend who is having a girl, so I'll be able to give her the book that is already completed. On the bath layout below, I am still trying to find the bottom of the boat on the towel rack as I unpack my stuff. Silly me didn't save the file on my gypsy either (I only have the original from the girl version).

The baby layouts used New Arrival & George & Basic Shapes. Enough words, here are the pictures:

My Mini Scrapper

2011-03-23T08:31:00.001-04:00

Before I dive into crop photos, I want to share a card my Daughter completed. I gave her and her friend, a sketch and a little guidance and this is what she did:

Challenge Week... Challenge #2

2011-03-10T21:35:00.000-05:00

I started out doing two cards for this challenge, but in the end, only one made the cut. LOL!! This challenge was issued by Celebrate the Occasion. You could make anything crafty, but it had to have a St. Patrick's Day theme.

Here's my entry:

Card Size: 5 X 6.5
Mat: St. Patrick's Paper from DCMV Spring Stack
Beer Mug: Cut from Smiley Cards
Reaching Hands: Cut from Sports Mania

Challenge Week... Challenge #1

2011-03-09T23:13:00.000-05:00

This week, I am totally venturing into the world of Challenges. I tried my first one last week and really enjoyed it, so I'm attempting three this week. I figured this way, I'll be able to make some cards to have on hand, like I have been planning to do for the past 2 years. LOL!!

Challenge 1: Issued by the Craftin' Sistahs Group on Facebook. The challenge was to create anything using 3 B's.

Card #1: Black, Blue, and Bling

Recipe:
Card Size (folded): 6.5 X 5
Background Paper: DCWV Glitter Stack
Blue Ribbon - Celebrate It (from Ms)
Angel: Digi Stamp (I can't remember where I got it from)
Text: Nestabilities Scallop Oval

Card #2: Brown, Blue, and Buttons

Recipe:
Card Size (folded) 6.5 X 5
Background Paper: Paper Studio - Coco & Blue Sm Polka Dot
Solid Paper: Bazzill
Baby Carriage: New Arrival Cricut Cart
Stamp: Stampin Up! Whimsical Words

If time permits, I'll be back tomorrow with Challenge #2.

Birthday Cards

2011-03-05T20:44:00.000-05:00

March is a busy Birthday Month!!! So, let's continue in the celebration.

I want to start getting in on some challenges, so I decided to try this one from Celebrate The Occasion. The card had to be green and white, with one other color. I love green and blue together.

What I used:
Nestabilities (scalloped circle)
CM Wavy Cutter
Cuttlebug Swirls Folder

Who doesn't want cake and ice cream for their birthday? This is for one of the kids' friend.

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-03-03T06:43:00.009-05:00

Happy Thursday!!!! I've been given the Stylish Blogger Award by two fellow bloggers:

Dakotabear - http://www.alwayslivemorescrapping.blogspot.com &

Dee @ http://littlemomentscreations.blogspot.com
THANKS LADIES!!!!

With this award, you must share 7 random things about you as well as paying this award forward. It's your turn to recognize bloggers that you visit or newly discovered! Make sure you let them know, you have something special for them.

Now, on to those Random Things About Me:
1) I drink a cup of hot chocolate EVERY morning at work.
2) I love to read but scrapbooking took over that! (can't wait for my Kindle for Mother's Day)
3) I can't chew gum longer than 15 minutes
4) I love to jump double dutch
5) I love to roller skate
6) My favorite food is hubby's fried chicken and seafood
7) I wanted to be a labor & delivery Nurse

It's time to pass the torch. I've selected these 5 bloggers to receive this award. I love how they flow:
IslandV - http://scrapinnovations.blogspot.com
Lisa - http://cropdropnroll.blogspot.com
I2BZ2W8 - http://i2bz2w8.blogspot.com
Michele - http://nowstampthis.blogspot.com
Sanura - http://sanurascraps.blogspot.com

Latest Projects

2011-02-28T06:20:00.000-05:00

I'm trying not to fall behind especially since in 14 days, it will be time to Spring Forward! I love daylight savings time. Here are my latest projects.

When DD was born I took her every month for professional portraits. Why? I'm all about preserving these moments. I always look back at her progression from birth to the young 9 year old girl she is today.

Lot's of February/March birthdays in my life, so I wanted to share some of the February birthdays. Can't share the March cards just yet, or the recipients will know. Both of these recipients love purple.

THANK YOU!!!!

2011-02-14T06:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day. I want to take this time to say thank you to all of you for stopping by my blog and posting a comment over the weekend. Your time is valuable and I appreciate you sharing some of it with me! To all my new followers, thanks and welcome to my world! Have a GREAT week!

SST Valentine Themed Blog Hop!!

2011-02-12T06:00:00.044-05:00

Welcome to the Sistas Scrap Too! second blog hop! We had so much fun with our first hop that we decided to do a hop once a quarter. This is the hop for the first quarter of 2011 and we are glad you decided to join us! We have 13 designers working on our theme for this hop, which is none other than Valentine's Day. We've put a twist on it, asking the designers to use the colors red, black, and white in their designs. We can't wait to show you what we've come up with! Some of the Sistas went the traditional route and used traditional colors for their projects. What would craftin' be without creativity and diversity?! We know you'll enjoy what lies ahead on the hop route!!

Remember, start at the beginning of the hop and work your way through each blog. Please leave blog love (comments) along the way and become a follower of the blogs so you can see the beautiful creations year round and not just when we have a hop! There are Sistas who are offering blog candy and you never know where you'll find some so be sure to visit each participating blog. Thank you for joining us for our 2011 SST! Valentine's Day Blog Hop! We hope you enjoy the creativity...

Target $1 Mailboxes. I still had a few leftover from last year.

Candy Cards: M&M Gumball Machine and Modified Tea Light Card.

Closeup of the machine. Stampin' Up! Sweet Treat Cups

Floating Frame: Vinyl Strikes again. The title was cut using SCAL.

Blooming Heart.

Hop Line Up

I hope you enjoyed my project(s)! Here is the list of participating blogs. Click the link under me to continue on your way. Don't forget to stop by and visit everyone. Leave some blog love and enjoy!
Sumaiyah - http://www.StampinDymonz.com
Cassie: http://cjscropcorner.blogspot.com <-----You're here!!!
Michele: http://nowstampthis.blogspot.com
Yvatte: http://gr8ful1-sweetlilscrapper.blogspot.com/
Lei: http://divinescrapper.blogspot.com/
Renee: http://reneehagler.typepad.com/
Tonya: http://rileyscustomcreations.blogspot.com/
Kim: http://kim-kimscreativecorner.blogspot.com/
Cammi: http://cuttin-up.blogspot.com/
Normea: http://mmdezigns.blogspot.com/
Ella: http://sharingmystuff.blogspot.com/
Lanita: http://stepitonitasworld.blogspot.com/
Vernetta: http://scrapinnovations.blogspot.com/

Party over Here!! Party over There!!!

2011-02-07T08:00:00.007-05:00

I love throwing parties or helping anyone to plan one. What I really like about them, the PARTY FAVORS!!! Whenever I am giving a party or coordinating one, I pay great detail to my choice of party favors. I always ask my clients, what do people think about when they think of you? When you walk away from a party, do you toss the favor in the kitchen or dining room junk drawer? I want your party favor to be memorable and one to go on display, at least until you eat the candy out of it. I have reason to celebrate this week. I design for Platinum Scraps and this week we are celebrating our FIRST ANNIVERSARY. The first year represents paper and what better way for 8 crafters to celebrate but to bring you paper party idea !!! Hop on over to Platinum Scraps design team blog to see all the Anniversary Projects.

Baby Shape Book

2011-02-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

I love doing word books, but because the baby's name is too long, I decided to do a shape book instead. The baby's room is an underwater theme, so I took it from there. I should mention that this book is a replacement for the name book I originally did as part of my shower gift. It was all decked out in purple, pink, and lime green for the baby girl on the way. So, why am I doing a replacement? That precious baby girl, turned out to be a handsome baby boy!!!!! Although the name originally chosen was unisex, the happy couple decided to name him after dad. I won't even tell you the entire scrapbook was decked out in the same girlie scheme. Thanks for stopping by!

School Layouts

2011-02-01T22:21:00.001-05:00

Is there really a such thing as catching up in scrapbooking? Not in my world. I did set a very hefty goal to catch up on the kids' school albums (not including their current year) before I go away in March. I won't be mad if I miss the mark, but I am determined to get close, if not completed. Two weeks ago, I finally finished my son's preschool album. Woohoo!!!! By the way, he's in first grade and I took tons of pics during his K year. Today on my desk, is my daughter's K field trip in Baltimore, about 4 years ago. LOL!! Don't be alarmed, her entire 2nd grade year is just about finished thanks to her teacher asking me to do a yearbook. Enough rambling... I just wanted to share a few layouts. Something I haven't done in a while. P.S. - I figured the only way to complete this goal is to keep it simple.

Final Bo Bunny Projects

2011-01-31T12:36:00.000-05:00

Earlier in the month, I shared with you that the Platinum Scraps Designers were showcasing Bo Bunny's Gypsy Paper. I also noted that I was still torn between whether this paper was being embraced or challenged. My decision remains neutral. Some shades I loved (brown/teal combo of course) and some needed a little more time to grow on me (yellow/orange/red combo). Here are my final two projects:

This is a $1 Wooden Frame from Michaels. I used my ATG (tape gun) to adhere the paper to the frame, but used modge podge to keep the edges in tact. You can also use the modge podge to adhere the paper. I created the calendar in MS Word with the help of MS Paint.

This card style is called a Tea Light Card. Named after those mini tea light candles you find just about everywhere. While I did make a card showing the actual candles in the window, I wanted to adapt that same idea for a Thinking of You card. I found a video posted on the cricut message board by LorraineB (Click to visit her blog). This card was quick and easy.

Creating your own Logo Part 2

2011-01-18T06:58:00.000-05:00

Hello Crafters:

Today I am posting a follow-up video to last week's Time Out Thursday, over at Platinum Scraps. Last week, I showed how to create your very own logo using Microsoft Word and any image of your choice. Some of our followers asked a question, that sparked the creation of Part 2: Placement of your Logo. I hope you find this video very helpful as you continue in your crafting and personal needs.

Attack of the Vinyl

2011-01-17T20:20:00.001-05:00

I told you all how addictive I knew this would be. I was in Walmart and found these cute little water bottles for $0.20. I'm thinking I should have gotten more than 10. I knew right away I would make a few for the kids' friends. This was a challenge because I was working with a small space. I'm also still learning how to work with circular objects. I also had 4 acrylic tumblers sitting on my kitchen table for 3 weeks now. So, let's throw them in the mix too. Both of the recipients love red.

Bo Bunny Gypsy Paper

2011-01-17T20:15:00.000-05:00

Hello Fellow Crafters,

Every now and then, someone challenges me outside of my comfort zone. That challenge either keeps me shying away from a particular product or technique or embracing it. This month at Platinum Scraps, we have to use Bo Bunny's Gypsy Paper. I haven't decided if I'm shying away or embracing it. Let me know what you think. Stay tuned in the weeks to come, to see my other creations with this paper stack.

Week 2: Card

Week 3: Layout

Week 4: Altered Item (Coming Soon)

Platinum Scraps: Time Out Thursday

2011-01-13T09:04:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Everyone,
It is my turn for a Time Out Thursday over at Platinum Scraps. I wanted to share an important tip when creating cards. That tip is: Add Your Own Logo. Not only does it say you are the creative talent behind the card, but if you sell cards, it can also help bring more business your way. Check out the video below and let me know what you think. I'm also going to do a Part 2 this weekend at the request of some fellow crafters. Part 2 of the video will who proper placement to print your logo on the back of cards.

Celebrating the New Year

2011-01-03T08:05:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday World:

This week at Platinum Scraps, we are welcoming in 2011. Be sure to check out my fellow designers to see how they rang in the New Year.

Here's the Sketch:

Here's my Take:

Happy New Year!!!! Welcome to 2011!!!

2011-01-02T22:15:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to see a New Year. I promised myself that I would try two new things in the first half of the year: 1) Vinyl and 2) Glass Etching. I got a head start and tried vinyl 2 weeks ago and I am HOOKED. Now, I just didn't stumble on this phenomenon. This future addiction came from my great friend Nicole over at Creative Delights by Nicole. She is my Vinyl Hero! Another great friend secretly tricked me too. She probably doesn't even know it, but NubianCrafterNC makes layering with vinyl look like old news. I'm still trying to work with those layers. Sitting on my kitchen table right now, are four clear acrylic tumblers waiting for some attention.

So, let's get to it! Here is my first *real* vinyl project.

So, leave me a post letting me know what "NEW" thing you are going to try this year. Who knows, you may end of swaying me and we can try them together.

Hostile Scraproom Takeover!!!

2011-01-02T22:13:00.000-05:00

This Christmas, Nana purchased my darling daughter her very own Cricut Create. She says, it is her BEST Christmas present out the bunch. She has been begging me to use it but I wanted to try and find her some space in my corner. Well, we reached some temporary middle ground because she had to make thank you cards for all her holiday gift givers. She picked something simple and ran with it. Her brother wants to use the cricut to make thank you cards too. She was also funny as she started the 1st page in her own scrapbook. It's going to be about her favorite things.

SST Christmas and Countdown to the New Year Blog Hop

2010-12-04T06:00:00.067-05:00

Christmas is coming and so is the New Year! To get you in the spirit of the season, the divas of Sistas Scrap Too! have come together for a Christmas and Countdown to the New Year Blog Hop! There are 17 blogs in the hop, so make sure you use the links below this post to hop to all of the participating blogs. No worries if you miss one, you can always go back! These 17 divas have a lot in store for you. From exquisite creations to offers of blog candy, you will enjoy hopping your way to all of the blogs involved! Don't forget to leave some blog love for the creators -- they love getting feedback on their designs!

Welcome to Cassie's Corner. Since Thanksgiving Eve, I've been listening to Holiday Music. From Jingle Bells, Santa Baby, Silent Night, Winter Wonderland, and tons more. This year, listening to the music inspired me to start my Christmas Cards, which usually become Happy New Years cards, early. Thank you for stopping by.

Project 1: Blessed Christmas:
A) Recollections large folded card
B) Celebrate It Ribbon
C) Snowflake Embossing Folder
D) Martha Stewart Punch
E) Cricut Carts: George & Basic Shapes and Graphically Speaking

Project 2: Merry Christmas
A) Recollections small folded card
B) Celebrate It Ribbon / Buttons
C) Swiss Dots Embossing Folder
D) Me & My Big Ideas pattern paper
E) Cricut Carts: George & Basic Shapes, Accent Essentials, & Winter Frolic

Project 3: Glitter Ornament
This is my first attempt at creating a glitter ornament. I'm actually practicing, because I volunteered to do this project with my son's 1st Grade Class. I have my work cut out for me in a room with 25 childen.

Thank you for participating in the Sistas Scrap Too! first ever blog hop! Remember to visit all of the blogs and leave blog love -- you never know where you'll find candy!! Here is a linked list of all the participating blogs:

1. Treva's Craft Corner
2. Stampin' Dymonz Creative Space
3. Nubian Crafter NC
4. My {Life}, My {Blog}
5. Step Into Nita's World
6. Sweet Lil Scrapper
7. P-Kaysunshine Creations
8. Sharing My Stuff
9. Yaya Philly Craft World
10. Cassie's Crop Corner
11. M. M. DeZigns
12. Made By Dee
13. Riley's Custom Creations
14. It's A Family Affair!
15. Cuttin' Up
16. Stamping On The Road

17. In Shelly's World

Elegant & Enjoying Eight

2010-12-04T02:16:00.001-05:00

I love these pictures of my darling daughter; especially the one where she's making an 8 with her fingers. One month from now, she'll be celebrating another birthday and this layout just reminds me of how far I'm behind on scrapbooking. LOL!!!! I'm alright with that though, because it gives me something to look forward to. Now, maybe in 2011 I'll fill in the years between 6 and 8.

What Are You Thankful For

2010-11-22T10:09:00.000-05:00

It's that yummy time of year again, THANKSGIVING. I can smell my plate just days away. I am looking forward to the arrival of my brothers and just hanging out with my family. I love this time of year. What are you thankful for this year? Over at Platinum Scraps this week, our challenge was to list 5 reasons why we are thankful. Here are mine:

Monkey Themed Baby Shower

2010-11-13T20:06:00.005-05:00

No more monkeys jumping on my head. Karen's Babyshower to welcome her little boy has come to an end. My girlfriend Chante and I brainstormed for 2 months to make this shower happen. And tadaaahhh, here are some pictures. The invitation and thank you card. Along with monkey centerpieces {which included banana nut muffins & banana fritters}, party favor {pillowbox}, game prize table, and cake table {which Nana supplied equipped with monkey cupcakes}.

Here Comes Baby...

2010-10-10T22:55:00.005-04:00

I have been tucked away in my corner for a few weeks now, working on a baby shower gift for a special First Time Mom. Nothing like celebrating the arrival of a precious bundle of joy. And all those who know me, know how BIG I am about taking pictures, especially during the first year of a child's life. So, there's no reason I shouldn't pass that same madness on to my friends. To get them started, I began scrapping a list of firsts. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Christening, Birthday, Crawling, etc. Here are a few pages from the book. The baby's color scheme is pink, purple, and lime green, so I tried to use that as much as possible.

Coloring and Copics... At it again...

2010-10-05T11:10:00.005-04:00

Hello Family, Friends, and Crafters. This weekend was my annual Shades of Color Fall Scrapbooking Retreat. We had a lot of fun and those of us hardcore crafters, went to bed after breakfast the following day. I am so surprised that I was well rested after being up all night, but I typically get 5 hours of sleep anyway. I am so looking forward to doing this again next year. I spent most of Sunday, coloring with my copics. Man, this is so relaxing. I still have a lot to learn, but I am truly enjoing it. Also below, are page layouts. I'm working on 2 Scrapbooks for 2 Moms to Be.

STOP and smell the Roses.

2010-09-27T22:03:00.008-04:00

Today, my best friend and big sister, celebrated her birthday. Although I had a rough weekend with my dental woes, I was praying that I'd be able to make it out to dinner tonight. Her favorite restaurant is Olive Garden. That was a plus since I'd be able to at least slide some pasta down my throat, since I'm barely able to chew. We had more laughs than my face could take and it was worth it. Back to crafting... I was finally able to play with my Copics and she received the first of such coloring. Here's her birthday card and a few pics of us. One from her sister's 50th birthday and the other photos from dinner.

BACK TO THE BASICS

2010-09-16T06:33:00.001-04:00

It is Time Out Thursday over at Platinum Scraps and this week, I am taking you back to the basics. George & Basic Shapes that is. When I first purchased my Baby Bug in 2006, I constantly used the George & Basic Shapes cartridge. Why? I had to. It was only 1 of 3 cartridges I owned (that month, lol!). That seems like so many ages ago. Even 50+ cartridges later, I almost always use this cart to make my photo mats. Today, I'm dusting it off to show you how I created a housewarming invitation.

FREE FOR ALL

2010-09-13T12:29:00.003-04:00

This week at Platinum Scraps, we are on our own! Each designer chose their own project and I am in the mood for Fall. Something about September, the cool nights, and all the leaves my hubby has already had to rake. It's just that time of year.

Each year, the kids have a harvest party at school. It comes full of cupcakes, candy, and lots of hyper kids. So, I want the teacher to get hype right along with them. LOL!!! The tin pail if from the $1 spot at Target.

I used the following carts: Straight from the Nest, Just Because Cards, & New Arrival.

2010-09-07T19:29:00.002-04:00

This week's challenge over at Platinum Scraps is a layout sketch from Mix It Up Challenges

Check out my take below and be sure to visit Platinum Scraps to see what my fellow design team members cooked up.

I Give Myself Away

2010-09-07T19:05:00.007-04:00

Last week, we celebrated a Special Occasion in my world. A very good friend was Ordained as a Youth Minister. As we ministered in dance to William McDowell's, "I Give Myself Away", you can't help but wonder what are you holding back on. What is keeping you from drawing nearer to God? The young lady singing at the end is the new International Church of Christ Youth Minister. Think about and let the song speak to your heart. So, are you wondering where the craft portion is? It's the program that was designed for the service. A FAN! Of course, it's my most used cricut cart to the rescue, George and Basic Shapes. Add some wire ribbon and a popsicle stick and tadaaaa!!! By the way, my cricut expression died while I was in the process of making these and I had to cut the remaining squares with a 12X12 trimmer.

Here's the video:
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Our First Home

2010-08-23T10:54:00.004-04:00

Good Morning All,

As I celebrate the start of a new school year, I'm reminded of how far behind I am on School Scrapbook page layouts. I've only made it to Preschool graduation for my now 3rd grader and the 1st Preschool Graduation of my 1st grader. (Long story but he had 2). So in my head, I'm gearing up to get those pages done by the end of the year. Yes, it's ambitious but I'm aiming high.

This week over at Platinum Scraps, we are celebrating Our Homes. Whether your first home, childhood home, or any in between, we want you to scrap about it. Here is our first Home. We just celebrated one year of home ownership!

Cards are everywhere.

2010-08-17T21:36:00.009-04:00

I finally got a chance to use the Handyman Lite Cricut Cartridge. I was refusing to pay full price ($39) for this cart although I really wanted it. What happened you ask, I had a Walmart store credit for $8 and I headed straight to the scrapbook aisle. LOL!!! The sketch over at Platinum Scraps this week was from Karen Giron's blog . Here's the sketch and my take on it. Head on over to Platinum Scraps to see how my fellow design team members interpreted the same sketch.

A dear friend of mine asked me to make 50th party invites. What tickled me the most was she made it clear that the standard colors could not be used. She specifically asked for Pink & Purple. Here it is:

Another great idea presented itself for an Ordination Service. This simple, yet elegant card can be used for other occasions as well. You can't tell from the picture, but the ribbon is a gorgeous royal purple.

Let's see what else... Oh, we just celebrated our annual Women's Day at International Church of Christ. Each year, I make something to hand out to some special sisters. This year, I made note holder. The idea came from papertreyink while at CHA this year. Very nice and the recipients were very appreciative. The first picture is how it looks while closed. The second shows the notepad inside.

One more. Today is my Dad's 53rd Birthday. I was up last night making cards. The first card was an idea taken from my good friend Nicole. Check out her blog, she does some nice crafting!!!

Let's Get to Crafting!!!!

2010-08-17T21:24:00.002-04:00

Hello Family, Friends, & Fellow Crafters. It's been 3 weeks since my last update and it is time to get back into the swing of things. I have 2 interesting stories to share.

I am officially part of the Cricut Demo Army!!! What does that mean? It means I work for a company that sends us out into the world (Michaels, Joanns, and now Best Buy) to demonstrate the various machines made by Provocraft. I am at Best Buy in DC every Saturday prior to Labor Day. My first day was last week and it was not good. The demo machine they sent me didn't work and my girlfriend Shanel C. saved the day by letting me borrow her baby bug at the last minute. The store associates had no clue and the manager was slightly lost as well. They thought I was a cell phone rep. After a little over an hour of looking for a table for me to use, they came up empty. Needless to say, I'll be trying it again this weekend.

Next, my Cricut Expression was on life support over the weekend. I was one night away from an emotional breakdown. I started thinking back to my scrap days before cricut and I shuddered at the thought. Anyway, My E would not turn on. When I hit the power button, it just made a clicking sound and the green light flashed bright then dull. Since it happened over the weekend, I couldn't call until Monday morning. A very nice rep walked me through the reset process and I am officially back to crafting. Phew!!!

CHA Updates: Products

2010-07-31T20:13:00.003-04:00

CHA is over and it was a blast. I had to exercise so much restraint. I am already onboard for next year. Here are some more pics:

1) Me with the ribbon cutting ceremonial scissors
2) The new Tim Holtz Sizzix Machine
3) The secret Cicle Members only box. Inside were binders on a table that featured cuts from carts to come. They were not allowed to take pics or film video. One of the PC staff told me that someone actually walked away with some of the pages from another binder. That binder had all the cutouts from the 4 carts that were just released.
4) The new Cuttlebug Machine. It's a slighty different shade of green and the handle tucks in. I want one. It's not in the stores yet and one of the Employees wasn't sure if it will be an HSN exclusive or not.

Oh yes, I did win a $100 Gift Card from one of the vendors there. That was very exciting and help to soften the blow of not winning a cricut cake. I decided this weekend that I probably really want one. I haven't decorated cakes in a long time but that is what I need to get it started again. LOL!!

CHA Updates: Products

2010-07-31T01:41:00.005-04:00

Several new CB folders are coming that match the carts. We've seen a few of these before but I'll list all that I saw: Freshly Picked, From My Kitchen, Sentimentals, Wall Decor & More, Mini Monsters, Robotz, Heritage, Create a critter, Cindy Loo, and Preserves. It's 4 embossing folders and they are priced at $17.99.

Here are some folders that emboss and cut a frame out in the center:

I mentioned that I was getting a whole new appreciation for cards. We stopped at a booth called Sparkle and Sprinkle. Besides the stamp sets, everything they sold did just that. Lots of glitters and embossing powders and glitter pens, etc. I took a pic of some sample cards they had on display. Just beautiful.

CHA Update

2010-07-31T01:14:00.004-04:00

Lisa and I are having a blast. Lots of walking and oohing, ahhing, drooling, and ooohing again. Here are a few pics of us. Oh yes, check me out trying to rock my Provocraft shades.

CHA....Chicago Style

2010-07-29T14:52:00.003-04:00

The Road Trip is winding down. I have finally made it to Chicago for the Craft Hobby Association (CHA). I am excited and looking forward to tomorrow. I know it's going to be busy and people everywhere, but I cannot wait to see what's new and what I can buy! I will be reporting back for duty tomorrow afternoon. Stay Tuned....

TAGS, BAGS, BOXES, & MORE!!!

2010-07-12T13:06:00.002-04:00

Our challenge this week at Platinum Scraps was to create anything from Cricut Cartridge: Tags, Bags, Boxes, & More. Please visit the above link to see what the other designers created.

I love cake boxes. How beautiful they look when stacked like a cake. They can by used for any occasion. I chose a baby shower. Let me know what you think.

Brown Butterfly

2010-07-07T21:14:00.006-04:00

We are back from vacation and boy have I missed having internet access. It was so hard and a struggle. By day 2, the withdrawal was tapering off. We spent some great time with family in Arkansas and was able to visit a friend in Mississippi. Oh yes, I stepped into Hobby Lobby for the first time and fell in love. That store is great and I found 3 albums that I need in multiples. My great friend Nicole of Creative Delights by Nicole offered to pick up some for me and send them once they go on sale.

While I was gone, I missed the deadline over at Platinum Scraps for this weeks Challenge. Please visit Platinum Scraps to see the different interpretations of the above sketch.

Honoring the Hero at Home

2010-06-28T14:15:00.000-04:00

Next week we will celebrate the 4th of July and in the spirit of honoring those that serve. I am taking this opportunity to Honor the Hero in my family. My Big Brother!! He spent 8 years in the Navy, traveling all over the world, and serving on the offshores of our current war. Upon leaving the Navy, he signed up as an Air Force Reservist and is in his 3rd year. In between all this time, he never lost sight of the big picture: becoming a FIREMAN!!! He spent years as a volunteer and now, his dream is reality. Thank you for serving your country as a soldier and rescuing those as a firefighter. Now, get your butt back on the East Coast and put fires out here because your family misses you!

FATHERS DAY Lunch Tins

2010-06-27T23:30:00.005-04:00

It's been a busy week and I will be getting some much needed rest this week. I wanted to share some Father's Day tins that the kids and I put together.

Video: Tiny Tip 2 - Printing Text on Cricut Cuts with MS Word

2010-06-17T13:00:00.000-04:00

It's time for another video. I'm always thinking of ways to share the tricks I used prior to life with my cricut. Some of them still work today, except now, I have more cuts to choose from other than sizzix dies. Take a look and let me know what you think. If you try it, be sure to come back and let me know. Thanks for watching. Now get back to crafting!!!!

Happy Anniversary Nicole & James

2010-06-15T15:00:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to give a special shout out to a wonderful friend of mine. On Sunday, June 13, Nicole & James celebrated another year of Love & Happiness. Here is their card, that I'm sure arrived in the mail a day late. LOL!!! Everyone knows I have a love/hate relationship with the post office.

Star Cut

2010-06-14T13:22:00.001-04:00

Platinum Scraps has struck again. This week's Challenge was to use a star from any Cart. I chose Hannah Montana. Hop on over to Platinum Scraps to see what stars my fellow design team members had in their eyes.

Graduation

2010-06-13T22:49:00.003-04:00

As we closeout another Graduation Season, I am so proud of all the graduates in my life. I know first hand how hard it is and the reward is all worth. Here are to cards I did last week. The Chef card is for Shayona who is on her way to Culinary School. The card design was a challenge issues on the Cricut Messageboard in the Sistas Scrap Too thread. Thanks for the challenge PkaySunshine!

What we do for love...

2010-06-13T22:43:00.003-04:00

Every now and then, my hubby walks into my Corner, sees what I'm doing and asks, 'when are you going to start my scrapbook?" Now, this may seem crazy considering how many projects I've done for others, but he rarely takes a photo. According to him, I practically force him to take family portraits every year. In actuality, he's just used to it, so he never puts up a fight. But, I got the message loud and clear, so this page is the start of something new..

ANNIVERSARY FAVOR TINS

2010-05-31T18:11:00.008-04:00

As we wind down a beautiful holiday weekend, I am trying to gear up for the work week to come. I had 3 days off last week that were pretty much spent running errands for our weekend celebrations. My Birthday, Anniversary, and Housewarming, all in a one week span. I'm sitting here right now enjoying the delicious taste of bbq. Hubby did his thing on his new gas grill (1st time using one) and my girlfriend Chinita hooked up the yummy sides along with her mom's tasty potato salad.

Friday night, we had a dinner party with some married couple friends of ours and it was too much fun. It made our 10th Anniversary so special. On to the real reason for this post: The favors:

See the video below on how I put these together.

Time to Celebrate!!!!

2010-05-24T22:32:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was my Birthday. I had the best time with my Sister-Girls. In honor of my Birthday, my layout over at Platinum Scraps has me embracing this new year. Check out how my fellow designers interpreted this 1 or 2 page sketch.

My friends kidnapped me for dinner at Olive Garden (man, that Grilled Shrimp Caprese was D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S) where I cleaned my plate. Next up, we headed across the street to the movies to see Just Wright, followed by dessert at Dairy Queen. I settled in for the evening reading all my cards from family and friends and melted myself to sleep. Ahhhhh..

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T20:39:00.004-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the Red Hot Mommas. Let me explain Red Hot. It means you have it going on. It means you are balancing being a wife, mother, employee, friend, sister, and in all other aspects of your life!!!

This is a 5X7 Card. The lady and purse were cut from Forever Young. The top note die shape, was cut from the Mother's Day seasonal mini cart. The sweet treat cup is filled with red hot candy. Want to give it a try. Go ahead give it a try and come back and let me know.

ConGRADulations!!!!!

2010-05-09T19:47:00.005-04:00

As we continue to usher in Spring, we are once again at the door of Prom and Graduation season. I am so proud of my bestest girlfriend, Tricia. Between her busy job (Asst Womens Basketball Coach at Bowie State), Head Coach Changes, active Church life, and heavy family involvment, she managed to complete her Masters Degree in Organization Communication.

It's time to P-A-R-T-Y

Teacher Appreciation

2010-05-09T19:41:00.005-04:00

Teacher Appreciation has come and gone and the last of the lunchboxes to be made are signed, sealed, and delivered. My son's teacher is a scrapper herself and she oohed and ahhed over her lunch tin. It's off to the next adventure for me.

Happy 10th Anniversary Honey!!!

2010-05-04T22:31:00.005-04:00

I told you all a few days ago, that May was my favorite month. So much to celebrate, so much happiness. Hubby and I will be celebrating our 10th Anniversary in a few weeks. I am thrilled to reach this small milestone because marriage is H-A-R-D but so rewarding. I started working on this design last week when my Summer in Paris cricut cartridge arrived in the mail. I knew what I wanted to do and was excited to pull it off. Here's the invite.

Here is how I did it:
1) My gypsy of course.

2) I welded a square from George & Basic Shapes to the building/bridge (is that what that is??) base from Summer in Paris to make the card base. (Silver 10.25 X 5.5)

3) Then I added the couple from Sweethearts and welded them to the base of the card as well.

4) Next, I cut the very intricate lace portion of the building/bridge. What a task. I ended up switching the blade after cutting out 6. It took a while to cut out all 4 on one sheet of 12X12 paper. I still had to take my pic and poke out several of the pieces. (Royal Blue 5.5 X 4.75)

5) Added silver ribbon across the top (using terrifically tacky tape)

6) I cut another set of the couple (black) to make us look cuter. LOL!!!!! And adhered them to the base.

7) Cut the inside and use Word to print all the details.

Shoes for Momma

2010-05-04T21:58:00.004-04:00

Next to Diamonds, I hear Shoes are a Mom's best friend. This shoe idea is courtesy of one of my Scrap Sistas. Check out Alice Brown's blog to see her original design. I figured out how to add the fold portion (using George & Basic Shapes, of course) and tadaaa! Here ya go. Thanks again Alice for the wonderful idea.

Mother's Day

2010-05-02T23:14:00.011-04:00

This weekend, we ushered in my favorite month of the year. MAY!!!!! I'll celebrate Mothers, Life, Love, and a New Home. Please share what you are doing for Mother's Day.

We all know a Supermom in our lives. That person may even be you. A Mother who is always on the go. A Mother who is balancing work, children, spouse, and even some quality time for herself. This week's project is dedicated to YOU!!

Here's Another. This was was done using Once Upon A Princess and Storybook. Let's just hope the kids' God-Mommy doesn't scope out the blog this week. LOL!!! It's full of goodies for her to keep in the car. Her car is black and her favorite color is red.

There is a mirror on the left side and the poem on the right reads:

Godmothers aren't fairies in a tale,
Offering a world that cannot be.
Demand of them glass slippers and they fail,
More likely to do favors naturally.
On them you can depend for a relation:
They offer gifts and guidance with a kiss.
Having taken on the obligation,
Each freely out of love gives what she is.
Real godmothers have no wands or wings,
So they must work with wisdom, love, and things.

LADIES NIGHT!!!

2010-04-19T00:00:00.001-04:00

I'm all clear from Party Central (My son had a blast) and now I need to shift my focus back to my weekly scrapping. The challenge this week at Platinum Scraps, is to use the Forever Young Cartridge. If you do not have this cart, it is a must have!!! This cart just oozes girlfriend, diva, classy and sassy. You'll be using it for years to come.

What Cricut Cartridges did what:
1) The building scenery was cut from Plantin Schoolbook.

2) The ladies of course, were cut from Forever Young cart. This includes their clothes and accessories. The picture mat is also a purse from FY.

3) Traffic light is from Going Places with a little stickles to make it bling.

4) Street signs and post - George & Basic Shapes (told you I don't have too many layouts that I don't use this cart on).

VIDEO: Tiny Tip 1: Creating Layouts

2010-04-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

It's Video Time. In the past, I have been called the most organized scrapper, an anal scrapper, and a silent scrapper. I will just roll those names together and call myself an organized scrapper. That is the only way I feel like I get things accomplished when I got away to crops. When I'm home working, it is no big deal. I just dive in and flow.

No matter where you are in your world of scrapping, this video will show (at every layout) an easy way to pre-plan your layouts.

Take a look and leave me some feedback. If there is anything you'd like to see, leave that too and I can start sorting out the how tos and when.

STRIKE... TURKEY.. and then some.

2010-04-14T23:26:00.003-04:00

It's time to celebrate in my house and my new SIX year old is ready to party. Although his birthday was last week, his party is this Saturday. As an added bonus, is Nana and Uncle JJ will be here (from Connecticut) to celebrate with him.

Here is the invite I made for his two classmates. Yes, you read that right. I only made 2 and all the usual party goers got an evite. What can I say, it has been a busy 2 weeks in my life.

The bowling pins were made using the Cricut Paisley Cartridge and I welded the pins to the card using my Gypsy.

SPRING IS HERE!!!

2010-04-07T21:54:00.003-04:00

I think it is official that spring is actually here. I almost turned the A/C on, but hid out in the basement instead. Here is a LO I did for Platinum Scraps. Be sure to check out my fellow designers as we feature American Craft Paper.

OH BABY!!!!

2010-03-24T22:30:00.007-04:00

I've had these baby shower cards in my head for 3 weeks now. I was finally able to put them down on paper. The girl card is still missing it's front label because of a missing stamp but I have an alternative already in the making. The Monkey is cut from New Arrival as well as the rattle stem. The monkey's shaking stomach is a peanut butter cup candy mold. The rattle is the Sweet Treat cups from Stampin' Up!

GOING TO THE CHAPEL

2010-03-24T22:21:00.004-04:00

Next month officially opens the Spring Wedding Season. Let my girlfriend Erica and my Aunt Tonya clue you in to LOVE from their 2009 Nuptials.

Storybook is one of the carts I really love. The white design on the right side of Erica's photo is from that cart. It was stretched using DS and cut on a plain sheet of white paper. Why the sparkles?... Basic Glitter BABY!! Spray glue and glitter go a long way. It is also the same design in red.

All About Disney

2010-03-24T22:05:00.003-04:00

We had our first Disney Vacation..... THREE years ago and I'm still scrapping it. Now to my credit, I haven't been scrapping it all those years, but on and off for the last 2. This past weekend on a 4 day crop, I managed to get a few pages done. They are simple layouts but they count as completd. Here they are!

COMING SOON

2010-03-23T22:21:00.002-04:00

It has been awhile. Sunday, I came home from a 4 day scrapbooking retreat and later this week I'll have something to show for it.

A Slice of Spring

2010-03-09T04:53:00.001-05:00

This week, we are slowly getting a taste of spring. The beginning of the week boasts 59, 60, and 61 degree days, followed by 3 days of rain. Doesn't that sound like spring is on the way? Over at Platinum Scraps, our theme this week is Spring. Have a slice on me.

Here's what I did:
1) Cut the cake boxes from Tags, Bags, Boxes, & More at 5.5"
2) Grass was cut from Plantin Schoolbook.
3) Oh, that yummy frosting is DCMV Indian Summer Fall Stack that was punched with Martha Stewart Drippy Goo Punch.
4) The other accessories are stickers, rub-ons, and stickles.

Birthday Cards

2010-03-07T22:47:00.003-05:00

It's time to celebrate more birthdays. The kids have 2 parties in the next 2 weeks, so here are the cards I put together. I actually thought both parties were this past Saturday, so I finished ahead of the game. One was moved to Monday and the other to the 20th. Glad I got these out the way.