sealed with a stamp

Just Talk

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:38:00 +0000

Good Morning ! I don't have anything to show today. I wanted to share that it may be a few days before I do. My husband built shelves in the basement this weekend. That means that my craft area is under some reconstruction. It looks like a bomb went off down there. My mom is coming in to visit for a few days so I'm not even sure WHEN I'm going to get things cleaned up. That's ok. I need to see my mom. It will all still be there when I am ready.

I find that I am sinking under the pressure of the holidays. I don't normally get like this. That is another reason I have been a bit silent on the blog. I want my blog to be a happy place. I've been feeling a bit blue...that's not fun to read. I decided that I would share a bit though. I am also asking for a few prayers.

Please pray for Priscilla. I'm not sure how much I can share at this point. Just know that she needs them..

Also, please pray for my Dad. He is going through so many struggles right now. I am amazed by his strength to push through. Without divulging too many details I will share a few things. First, his wife has Alzheimer's. She is only 60. Each time we go to visit you can see how she gets a little bit worse. Some days are better than others. My dad is only 59. He hopes to be able to retire and care for her. The daily struggles of figuring out when and if it's time to have someone intervene are very trying. My dad is amazingly patient. Much more than I find myself being at times. It is a balancing act everyday. Juggling the possibilities of what she will or won't do. His wife still wants to be independent. That is a tough line to cross since there are days she has a hard time being that way. My dad also has a very demanding job. It has gotten worse over the years. With no one around to help him with his wife it is even harder. Alzheimer's is a sad, stressful disease. I don't think anyone really knows how hard it is for both the person and the caregiver until you SEE it.

My dad also recently did a good deed for someone that ended up with some bad consequences. His heart was in the right place; his luck was not. So you see, he really needs some prayers.

I promise that my blog will not always be this much of a downer. I REALLY hate getting like that. I thought if I wrote about it I might feel a bit better about it. So THANK YOU if you have read this far!

The holidays are always a little bit stressful for everyone. That may be why I feel so edgy. Or maybe it's because of this conversation that I had with my son:

Let me set up the story first. My friend, Mrs L (she reads my blog) substitutes at the school. She regularly fills in for Mrs. B. Last week was a BIG testing week for the kids. The IOWA test...no we live in Ohio. I'm already confused. Then this conversation took place after waiting with 8 kids in the hallway of the school because my other friend was running late to pick her kids up. Then SIX of those kids came home with me! I felt the need for a drink that evening BTW! Here's the conversation:

Dalton: Hey Mom, Mrs L. was in my room today!

Me: Oh yeah, I think she was Mrs. B today.

Dalton: NO, it was Mrs. L.

Me: Yes, I know, but she was Mrs. B at school.

Dalton: No she was Mrs. L! It was Mrs. L in my room.

Me: What I MEAN is she was working FOR Mrs. B today....in her room.

Dalton: No because I saw Mrs. B today. She came in and got "so and so" to take him to her room.

Me: Oh, she must have been taking him to do some testing.

Dalton: MOM, we are all taking a test.

Me: Yes, but she does special...oh never mind.

This is MY rendition of a "Who's on first, What's on second" skit. When we saw Mrs. L that night Dalton told her she should wear a mask of Mrs. B when she works. That might make it so much less confusing for our next conversation at home:(

Speaking of my son, he is having some difficulties at school. He is such a hard worker, but he struggles so much with reading. We are looking into extra help at school and tutoring. It is tough to see him work so hard and have such a hard time. So please pray for him too!

Thought I'd share a few picture of our trip to be a bit more cheerful.

This was opening day of hunting. My son went almost every morning with my husband. My dad, uncle and cousin are also pictured.

My daughter went almost every evening.

We all spent a day hanging out in the barn, cutting and packaging meat.

Hopefully, I'll be back towards the end of the week with something to share. In the meantime, I'm feeling better already. Thank you!

Give Me A Bit A BLING!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Happy Stamptacular Sunday to you! Our challenge today is to make a card using some BLING! I'm in a bit of denial that Christmas in only 3 weeks away. Therefore I just couldn't make anything with a Christmas theme:) I have been wanting to make a card using a technique I saw on Splitcoast a few weeks ago. My flower is made using some glimmer mist and a paper towel. Fun, huh? I also used the Elegant Flourishes set from Clear Dollar Stamps. I love flourishes! Isn't this one beautiful? I also used a sentiment from a new set by PTI called, "Giga Guidelines." Please excuse my photo. For some reason I feel like my pictures are being compressed when I load them onto my computer. Still trying to figure that one out. The top of the card uses a Fiskars border punch and some black satin ribbon. I decided to add my bling using some Taylor's Tiny Twinkles, a rhinestone from my stash and dazzling diamonds.

Please join us this week. Everyone can use a little BLING in there lives. Head on over to the blog so you can see all the DT's projects.

Our Sponsor this week is our own DT member, Paula. She is giving away this.....

Also Emma Lockley is sponsoring this...

Well, that's all for me today! We are finishing up our Christmas Village. My kids can't wait!

Warm Wishes to you!

What's In It?
Stamps: Elegant Flourishes (CDS), Giga Guidelines (PTI)
Ink: Colorbox Maroon, Versafine Black
Paper: Black, white
Other:Taylor's Tiny Twinkles, rhinestone, black satin ribbon (HL), glimmer mist, paper towel, fiskar border punch,dazzling diamonds

Working Up Some MOJO

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:26:00 +0000

Good Morning to you all! I made a simple card today for the Mojo Monday Sketch. It has been so long since I have done one of those. I also used the colors from the TCP challenge. So soft and pretty. I think that this color combo is one of my favorites. Of course, anything with Kraft card stock is good.

My old DT member Carly was getting rid of some things. I was able to get 5 Unity sets from her. I used a few on this card. I know that feeling of cleaning house. We are doing a little organization in the basement and my craft area is undergoing some change. I am trying to get rid of lots of stuff that I'm not using. I think it's going to be great. I'll have an area to keep my printer and set up my laptop. Plus pegboard! I can't wait for that! I am soooo glad to have my husband done with his Master's finally. He will now have time to do some of the remodeling we need to do. Plus he is able to spend more time with us.

I wondered what you all are doing to get into the spirit of Christmas? We didn't watch Polar Express yet, but we got our tree up. I hope to finish decorating by Sunday. We have a busy week. It's beginning to feel a bit more like Christmas

Thought I'd share a few pictures of my kid's in their Santa hats.

They always wear these hats when putting ornaments on the tree.

Christmas Cheer has finally begun! Have a great day!

What's In It?
Stamps:Gratitude=Joy, Trinity ( Unity), Sanded
Ink: Colorbox Dune, Sahara Sand, Colorbox Pink
Paper: Kraft, Watercolor, Vanilla, DCWV Pink
Other: MM heart brads, Copics, dimensionals, Nestie Circles and Scallop Circles, Chipboard, Paint, QK embossing folder, cuttlebug

Forgot to Mention

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:27:00 +0000

I am getting rid of a lot of stamping stuff. I have things listed on Ebay HERE. Take a look if you like. I will have much more after the first of the year too.

Finding My Way Back to Reality

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:17:00 +0000

It's been a bit quiet here on the ole Blogarooni. Sorry! Do you know what the worst thing about getting back from vacation is? All the stuff you left behind is STILL there smacking you right in the face when you return. I've spent the last few days trying to catch up on laundry, getting the kids geared up for the return to school, organizing my school volunteer work, trying to find some stamping mojo and, OH YEAH, there's this big holiday coming up that I JUST started prepping for. Wowzers!

I absolutely LOVE Christmas. It is the thing that warms my heart. However, I haven't really gotten in the spirit of the season yet. So, I decided to listen to some Christmas music today while finishing my card. The radio station had this big discussion about how most people would really rather get the money than a gift. WOW! Haven't we really LOST what Christmas is about? THAT sure didn't help to get me in the spirit. I think we may have to watch Polar Express tonight. That is my all time favorite Christmas movie. I also love the song in it by Josh Grobin. It gets me....right...here. Have a listen ....

BELIEVE

I had to add this song too. I know I'll find it.

Where are you Christmas?

Now onto my card

I made this for the Everything But The Kitchen Sink challenge. We were to use a toothpick on our card. I was in the process of making this card for another challenge and just trying to figure out how to do my arms. VOILA! I colored them with Copics. The nose is also a toothpick. I love the "idea" of this card, but not this one in particular. I messed up underneath that pink panel. I already had everything hot glued so there was NO starting over. Just imagine it without the pink panel and I will be happy:)

I'm off to try and catch up on my GIANT "To Do" list. It is seriously longer than my kids' Christmas lists. I know you all can relate. I'm not sure how much posting I will get done in the next few weeks. I have some changes in my life going on that I can discuss more later. They are all good.

Hope you have a blessed day. We are supposed to get snow flurries tomorrow. I'm crossing my fingers for it. I KNOW that will help put me in the spirit.

What's In It?

Stamps: Itty Bitty Backgrounds

Ink: Fresh Snow

Paper: Kraft, Soft Sky, Jolly by Golly, Bazzill Pink

Other: Buttons from TPS and PTI, dollar spot chipboard, grommet, Janome Sew Mini, sharpie marker, Sakura Stardust gel pen, distressing tool, toothpicks, dazzling diamonds, paper piercer

A Weaving Challenge and A Happy Anniversary!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Hello Blogger Friends!

I'm finally back from my vacation. We had so much fun with family. It is just the greatest to be surrounded by people you love. People who have no choice but to love you right back:) I think my family is the greatest! I will share just a few pictures later in the week.

Today I am here to share a card for this week's Stamptacular Sunday Challenge.

The challenge this week is to use weaving on your card.

I decided to try weaving some ribbon onto a panel of card stock. I also used some of my favorite paper by K&Co called Ancestry.com. The heart was stamped in versamark and then Baja Breeze and clear embossed. That center heart is a leftover piece from a die cut and I added some pearls as an added detail.

This sappy card is for my hubby. Today is our 12 year Anniversary:) I love the idea of the woven ribbons symbolizing how our lives are woven together. And that is as mushy as I'm going to get today:)

I hope you can play along this week. I'll finally be able to check out all your creations now that I am home. The design team has some amazing samples to share. So, go get inspired. We also have some great giveaways.

Our sponsor this week is Sassy Studio Designs. They are giving away 4 images...winner's choice! Also Emma is giving away THIS....

Thanks for popping in today. Hope you have a fabulous and fun week! I hope to be able to participate in a few challenges myself. I have REALLY missed stamping!

What's In It?
Stamps: Ever After
Ink: Versamark, Baja Breeze, Vintage Photo (TH), Close to Cocoa Craft

Paper: Ancestry.com, Vanilla, Choc Chip
Other: Chipboard letters, Sakura Stardust pen, PTI cream ribbon, Janome Sew Mini, Recollections pearls, Sizzix die, clear EP

Simply Pretty!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:41:00 +0000

First I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving (in the US) a bit early. We are celebrating this year at my MIL's. When I first married my husband we went to spend Thanksgiving at his Great Grandma's house. It was a sweet little log cabin that her husband had built for her many years ago. The tradition of the family was always to spend 2 weeks at Great Grandma's. So we all slept in rows on the floor of this tiny house, with one bathroom for all of us. It was SOOO FUN! I was new to the family and wanted to contribute something that we always had at my family gatherings. I decided to make "GREEN JUNK" which is a jello and whipped topping desert. We were all sitting in the kitchen talking about the new carpet that Great Grandma had just gotten. I was mixing up my green dessert with the hand mixer. When I went to take the beaters out they FELL RIGHT ON THE NEW CARPET. Green jello on Cream colored berber. YIKES! This is my life and my luck. What a way to impress the family. They have since gotten used to my little blunders. Great Grandma was one of my favorite people. We will be thinking of her this Thanksgiving. I hope you enjoy your family.

Now for the card. This is soooo simply and a concept I have used before. I love the colors of this card though.

I used the flourish from a set by Making Memories called Autumn Splendor. I just inked it up with versamark first and then Enchanted Evening Ink and clear embossed it on Old Olive. I also sponged the edges to give the card a little depth. The ribbon at the top is threaded through a tiny slit to make it look like it's hanging. The sentiment at the bottom is from Peaceful Wishes which is retired.

Hope you have a very BLESSED DAY! I will be back in a few day from vacation. See you then

Nature-tacular Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Good Morning! It's time for another Stamptacular Sunday Challenge. Today you are to use anything that you find in nature on your cards and using fall colors. This is one of my least favorite projects. The idea I had just didn't seem to show up on paper. Don't you hate that. Well, being that I was pressed for time and leaving for vacation I couldn't try again. I am happy that I was able to use that burlap ribbon that I have had in my crafting supply for probably 10 years.

I hope you can join us today. Our sponsor this week is Cute Stamps and Cards. They are giving away FOUR fabulous Magnilia stamps. Please have a look at the blog for those and all the design teams creations!

What's In It?
Stamps: Autumn Abundance PTI, Autumn Fest
Ink: More Mustard Chalk,MS green, Baroque Burgundy, Choc Chip
Paper: MME, vanilla
Other: burlap ribbon, button TPS,burlap twine, sponge, chipboard, timholtz distress paint

Loving This Paper

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Last week I made a card for my hubby in THIS MUSHY POST. I loved that paper so much that I had to make another card using it. I did something cool with that flower. It is a piece of chipboard that I painted off white. I then took some white tissue paper and decoupaged it on top. Then I distressed it with Vintage Photo ink and Colorbox ink. I also decided to add a funky edge along the bottom by cutting it with my Creative Memories cutting system. I just love this card. I think it's the paper.

Thanks for popping in today!

What's In It?

Stamps: For You Heidi Grace

Ink: Colorbox pigment, Tim Holtz Distress ink

Paper: MM Love Story Notes, Vanilla

Other: Sizzlet Lots of Tags, MM brad, Prima flowers, dimensionals, vintage brads, paper piercer, CM cutting system, sponge

Missing

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:20:00 +0000

A few weeks ago the CAS challenge on Splitcoast was to make a card using a sketch. This is one that I made and sent to my dad. I had made everyone in my family a card except him so I thought I better not exclude him. This is a really quick card and so is this post. I will have a few posts over the next few weeks while I am on vacation. Enjoy!

What's In It?

Stamps: Inkadinkado sentiment, Verve Serenity

Ink: Mellow Moss, Choc Chip

Paper: Kraft, Wassail DP, Mellow Moss, Choc Chip

Other: Labels Nesties, Cuttlebug EF, satin ribbon, sponge

Turkey Time?

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

I don't think so.

The challenge today at Stamptacular Sunday Challenge is to create a card or some other sort of project that can be used at or sent at Thanksgiving time...put a TURKEY on it and get entered TWICE to win this week's fabulous prize!

Well, I made card that is Thanksgiving themed, but it doesn't have any turkey on it.

The chances of me ever having a turkey stamp are pretty slim.

I don't like turkeys. Oh, I like to EAT turkeys. It sort of a "revenge" thing. See, when I was a kid I was tormented by a turkey. Yes, the following is a true story. No matter how far fetched it may seem it is totally and completely true. My family will vouch for that.

So here goes..... When I was in high school we lived out in the country. It was my dad's escape back to the country boy in him. My dad would always get these "ideas." One blessed year he decides we are going to raise turkeys and then sell them. I think we had around 25 of them and one "rooster." This rooster liked to get out and walk around the yard. I soon learned that he would run right towards me like he was going to attack me. I would have to check to make sure he wasn't out when I wanted to leave the house. My family thought it was funny. Aren't they nice? Believe it or not, I hold no emotional scars from them.
Well, one day when I was leaving the house HE was out. I think I had to go to work so I made a dash for the car. He chased after me and then proceeded to circle my little car, pecking at it.
We later discovered that he would attack my brother's RED and blue basketball too. I think this turkey was part bull and the color red made it attack. I have RED hair! That is my theory, anyway.

The day we loaded those turkeys up into my dad's truck to be hauled off to the butcher was a happy day for me. He joked about keeping the "DEVIL TURKEY" around. In the end he became a Thanksgiving dinner:)
Honestly, those turkeys that we raised were the best turkey I have ever eaten.

I hope I didn't offend any vegetarians or turkey lovers out there, but you can see why I may not be that fond of the little fellows when they are alive.

I do have a picture of a turkey to share though. This was created by my son for school. He was to disguise a turkey so that it can't be recognized and eaten at Thanksgiving.

He decided to put it in camouflage to make it look like the turkey is the hunter. We also added glasses with a fake nose and mustache. That part cracks me up.

I hope you will join in our challenge this week.

Our sponsor is Simon Says Stamp .

The prize is a $25 gift certificate and FREE shipping!

Go have a look at all the fun and beautiful creations by the design team.

What's In It?

Stamps: Tall Oaks (Verve)

Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa

Paper: K&Co Classic and scraps from my stash

Other: Copics and Prismacolor pencils, blending stumps, baby oil, crystal effects, vintage brads, recollections pearl, TPS button, twine, dimensionals, paper piercer, vine trim ( Papierloftet)

Please send a card....

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 11:48:00 +0000

Good Morning! We are heading out for vacation today. I don't have a card to show. I did make one REALLY quickly this morning for a little boy that I read about HERE.

Please take a few minutes this weekend to make a card for Noah. We will be around this area while we are visiting family. I felt compelled to make a little something for him. I am soooo thankful for my 2 beautiful, HEALTHY children.

I will have several preposts for your viewing pleasure (hopefully) while I am gone. Take care friends and cross your fingers that we get a deer. It is how we feed ourselves throughout the year.

Hugs!

Twinkle, Twinkle Big, Bright, Beautiful Star!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:25:00 +0000

I just have a very quick post today. We only have 2 more days til our vacation and I have sooo much to do. I read a blog by Shawne, who is an AMAZING artist for Clear Dollar Stamps. This is another stamp company that I truly want to try out. However, I have so many wants and so few monies. Isn't that the way it goes. Anyways, they have started a new Challenge and she invited me to participate. The challenge is to use 5 of anything on your card. Mine has 5 pearls, 5 Tiny Tinkles and it did have 5 layers, but I had to remove one cause I messed up....SHOCKER! This is also for the CAS challenge on Splitcoast which is to use white and ONE other color. I was so excited to get to play with the Verve Stamp set I just won from the last release party. It's so pretty! Alright, now go check out the challenges and play along!

Stamps: Star of Wonder (verve)

Ink: colorbox silver

Paper: white

Other: Tiny Twinkels, dimensionals, silver EP, Melissa Frances Pearls, TPS pearl brad, circle nestabilites, dazzling diamonds, 2 way glue pen, Quickkutz EP, May Arts satin ribbon

Who Knew?

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:32:00 +0000

Who knew that when I received a blog award last week I would spend the next few days feeling like one of those celebrities that DOESN'T thank their adoring family? ( I am SO NOT a celebrity, but you know what I mean)

Who knew that my sweet husband, the "Leaf Nazi," was so sensitive?

Who knew that he would feel so hurt by the fact that I didn't name him as my best friend?

Who knew that I would spend the next few days explaining myself and trying to make up for it?

I SHOULD HAVE. Because I know that ONE word answers never tell the whole story. I am giving myself permission from now on to speak at will:)

As I explained to my husband, there is a very good reason why he isn't my best friend...It's because that "title" doesn't really describe all he is to me. He is so much MORE than my best friend. He is my SOULMATE. He is the other half of me. He is the person that, as cliche as it sounds, completes me. We have so many differences in how we are and that's what makes us great. We look at things in different ways, but always TOGETHER. He has helped me to grow to be a better person. To set goals for myself and to think more seriously about life. While I have helped him to laugh a little more and not be so set on looking to the future...to living in the "now." He is the person I admire the most. I would rather be with him than anyone. He makes me laugh, smile and literally melt inside. He is the person I enjoy growing with each and everyday. Creating this wonderful life we have together. I can not imagine my life without him. It's hard for me to even put into words what he is to me because he is MY EVERYTHING. So I made this card for him and snuck it in his briefcase today.

The inside has the two hearts stamped together. That's what we are...2 hearts that fit perfectly together. Sorry to get all mushy on you, but I needed him to know PUBLICLY why he isn't my best friend. He is so much more! This card could not have come together more perfectly. It is very symbolic of our relationship. All the pieces stitched together, the two seperate hearts that fit and the sentiment. I think it is my favorite card ever. I am so glad I get to give it to him. I used Beate's Weekend Sketch 105 and stole the idea of the punched edge from Laurie Schmidlin.

Thanks for popping in today for my mushy love story. Hope you are having the same fabulous weather that we are here.

What's In It?
Stamps: Hearts Afire (verve), Always
Ink: Choc Chip Craft, Vanilla Craft
Paper: DCWV red, MM Vanilla Love Story, choc chip
Other: Fiskars border punch, dimensionals, sponge, clear EP, Circle Spellbinders, Janome Sew mini, Sizzlet Lots of Tags

Time To Get Sketchy

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 10:50:00 +0000

WOWZER! Holy Pacholie. Whoa! These are all the things I thought when I saw this sketch challenge. Honestly, it's pretty tough. But, then I started thinking about what I have learned about sketches since participating in so many challenges. You don't have to take a sketch so literally. Think about what else you can see in them. They are really just a creative "diving board." So are you ready to "jump in" over at Stamptacular Sunday Challenge. I think it is going to be so interesting to see what people come up with.

Here's what I saw in that sketch:

This is a little wall hanging that I made with some old chipboard and a new PTI set. As usual, I think it's so much cuter IRL. I added some crystal stickles to the edges of the snow and the snowman, but you can't tell from the picture.

Here it is hanging in my kitchen:

One final close up of the details:

So how creative can you get today with this sketch? You have a chance to win something from

ALL THAT SCRAPS

Here is the prize

Make sure you head on over to see the Design Teams creations and leave them a little love. They are conveniently located on my left side bar.

Have a great Sunday!

What's In It?

Stamps: Holiday Tree (PTI)

Ink: Vanilla Craft, real red, versafine black, always artichoke, vintage photo Tim Holtz, white craft

Paper: Jolly by Golly ( cosmo cricket), Black, Real Red, Vanilla,

Other: CM cutting system, Janome Sew Mini, stickles, PTI vintage buttons, twine, curly label punch, dimensionals, TPS buttons, ribbon (hobby lobby), TH antique linen distress paint, sponge, scalloped edge punch

Resurrection From the Creative Dead?

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:24:00 +0000

Good Morning! I finally finished a card. While I really love this, I'm not sure it means I have my Mojo back. I started this card a few days ago and finally had the gumption to finish it. I think I currently have 4 projects on my desk waiting to be completed. Does anyone else do that? I am so envious of those that can whip up a card in 20 minutes. I don't think I can do ANYTHING in 20 minutes. I'm very slow at everything. It's a family curse. I also wanted to say that I really appreciate the words of encouragement yesterday. I know that everyone goes through a creative slump at times. I am getting ready to go on vacation and I have been trying to get design team work caught up, as well as, projects to show while I am away. I realized that may not happen. My blog may be SILENT for a few weeks. Before it never mattered, but now I KNOW that 64 of you are following my every move..hee hee. The PRESSURE! AHHHH! I don't work well under pressure. I now know that I am my own worst enemy when it comes to that. I decided I will do what I can and then come back with a vengence...refreshed, revived and RAAARING to go. ( The raring part is from Father of the Bride II... Martin Short's character...love that movie)

Ok, enough chatter. This is a card I started for the MOXIE FAB challenge to use PLUM. I only know a handful of people who like purple. I am not one of them. My mom loves purple though. I am missing her. She always reads my blog so she will see her card before she actually gets it. This ones for you MOM!

One of my favorite stamp sets was used on this card. I love the elegance of that "flourish."

I don't know if you can tell from the photo, but I also stamped the little flowers in fresh snow ink and then embossed with iridescent ice. Each is topped with a tiny pearl. They say that "Diamonds are a girl's best friend," but I prefer pearls. This rare beauty encased in a hard shelled creature. There is something very metaphoric about that, don't you think. I know a few people like that. My mom is not one, however. She oozes sweetness.

I also wanted to point out this ribbon rose. Here is a close up...

This is so simple to make. I learned how from my very last demo magazine. I will work on showing you a mini tutorial for next week.

Ok, I'm off to see if I can be a bit more creative. My son has the assignment of "disguising a turkey" for school. So we will be "gettin' crafty " as a family today. Hope you all have a good one. Check back here tomorrow for a Stamptacular Sunday Challenge!

What's In It?

Stamps: Baroque Motif, For You (heidi grace)

Ink: Versamagic Purple Hydrangea, Fresh Snow (PTI)

Paper: Plum Pudding (PTI), White

Other: Plum Pudding satin ribbon, lace, Kaiser pearls, Taylor's Tiny Twinkles, iridescent ice, dimensionals, organdy ribbon, pretties kit, cuttlebug EF, corner rounder

I Have NO MO JO.....

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:53:00 +0000

....no ambition and no time. That equals NO card:( I am trying to be optimistic and say I will be back tomorrow with SOMETHING. Til then my friends. And if NOT, check in on Sunday because I have a project for the Stamptacular Sunday Challenge that took the last of everything I had. I love it though so check back then for sure!

Over the Top!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:00:00 +0000

This is the award that Stacie gave me the other day. I am so honored! Lately I have been called "mean" ( my son), "crazy" (my daughter), "moody" (my husband) and "nuts" ( Tosh). So "Over The Top" is a real compliment.

Now for the rules: I need to pass this award on to five people, post on their blog to let them know I left this award, and then I need to answer a list of questions in ONE word. If you know me then you know one word is TOUGH! I will do it though.
1.Where is your cell phone? Hmmmm?

2.Your hair? WILD

3. Your mother? sweet

4. Your father? silly

5. Your favorite food? Mexican

6.Your dream last night? none

7. Your favorite drink? " Momma's Milk" (Kahlua and milk) I got to 7 before cheating...that's good

8. Your dream/goal? Happiness

9. What room are you in? dining

10. Your hobby? crafting

11. Your fear? lots

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? healthy

13. Where were you last night? home

14. Something that you aren't? organized

15. Muffins? chocolate

16. Wish list item? time

17. Where did you grow up? Michigan

8. Last thing you did? flyers

19. What are you wearing? smile

20. Your TV? I WISH ( I have kids and a history buff hubby)

21. Your Pets? 4

22. Friends? fabulous

23. Your life? funny

24. Your mood? Cybill-ish

25. Missing Someone? family

26. vehicle? minivan

27. Something your not wearing? shoes

28. Your favorite store? Simply Scrapbooks

29. Your favorite color? green

30. When was the last time you laughed? today

31. Last time you cried? ?????

32. Your best friend? sister

33. One place that I go to over and over? School

34. Facebook? Just

35. Favorite place to eat? My MIL's when we get JET'S Pizza

Ok, so I didn't follow the rules. I am passing this award on to these 5 people:

Kathie....I am amazed by her personally, but WHAT she can do to a lunch note is amazing. I can't even pack my daughter's lunch, let alone make these creations each day. She is OVER THE TOP WONDERFUL!

Liza....I am in awe of her coloring skills. Really, I 'm just horribly jealous.

Carly... She amazes me with her sheer ability to do so many things so wonderfully and with 2 little girls.

PattiJ... I can't believe all the challenges she can accomplish in one day. She also has these little tidbits on her blog that make me giggle everytime.

Travelingmamma....Because her blog speaks to my soul through her stories, her generosity and her photography.

HALLOWEEN PICTURES

Elvis and Priscilla Presley have left the building!

My daughter would not let me cut this hair. Some people thought she was Cher. By the end of the night she wished she had listened to me:)

We had a lot of fun. My son told everyone that gave him candy, "Thank you. Thank you very much," while doing "the lip thing." Some people got it and some didn't. He came home and we got him doing his rendition of Jailhouse Rock on video
.

We also decided to carve only one pumpkin this year. We ran out of time with illness and my hubby's work and school shedule. This also saved us some money. It actually was a really fun family activity. Next year we need a revolving display though so everyone can see all four sides of it.

I wish I had a card for you, but I don't. Hopefully tomorrow. We have had quite a bit of illness here lately. Hope you all stay healthy and have a great Wednesday!

NIKKI

Joy Can Mean SO Many Things

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:10:00 +0000

This is my take on Beate's Weekend Sketch 104. It's a "creative stretch" as far as the sketch goes. I'm not sure it really qualifies at all, but this was the idea I had and I couldn't seem to veer from it. I love this card, but NOT this photo. It seems to me that Raspberry Fizz and Pink Passion don't photograph well. I tried everything to get this to look true in color. Even the buttons are off. So imagine that the true colors of Rasp Fizz, Aqua Mist and Spring Moss are what the buttons really look like. Do you see it? AHA! Then it is indeed "Joy."

On the subject of "joy" I wanted to share something that isn't really craft related. But, this blog is about things that I love. I recently found a blog called, I'm An Organizing Junkie, in my neverending quest to improve myself. One thing that I love on her blog is the Menu Plan Monday. This has been a huge help to me in organizing my week's worth of meals. I am the type of person who thinks at 4pm, "Hmmm, what shall we have for dinner in an hour?" The Menu Plan Monday is a layout of your entire weeks worth of meals. She even has a few printables you can use. This has really helped me so much. I know that sounds like a "no-brainer"...hey, why don't you PLAN what you want to eat for the week, dummy?! For someone like me (an obvious "no-brainer"), I needed this knock to the head. Besides, you can look at what other people are planning and get recipes. You could even just have what she is having each week. I don't know WHO would do something like that though. I mean REALLY! But, it's an option...a back up plan, if you will.

This has also led me to other blogs that offer up some great recipes. One blog is called, Finding Joy In My Kitchen. This lady posts tons of stuff...sometimes twice a day.

I, personally, have never found "JOY" in my kitchen... but I'd LOVE to... REALLY! Everyday at 3:30, when I get home from picking up the kids, I hope that I will find "JOY" there. A big smile on her face, cooking up a dinner beyond belief. She will nod and say, "Hey, I've got it all under control." Then she'll present this beautiful dinner that EVERYONE will eat and she'll leave all the credit to me~~~~~~~~~(insert sounds of waking from the dream).

Yes, I'm still waiting for "JOY". Does anyone know her? I think my husband would like to meet her too.

(Hey...maybe we DON'T need "JOY") Anyways, I wanted to share this little tidbit to making my week run a bit smoother. Now if I could just figure out how to fit the meals I plan into my budget, we'd be that much closer to...well.... BLISS:)

Hope you have a great day! I will be posting pictures of my family tomorrow AND I got a blog AWARD. Thank you to Stacie, aka craft_princess, for giving me an award. I am working on passing it along. I will share details tomorrow. Hopefully a card too. My day is NOT going as planned, so we'll see.

What's in it?

Stamps: Snowflake Serenade

Ink: versamark

Paper: white, Rasp Fizz

Other: silver EP, dimensionals, satin ribbon, PTI holiday buttons, silver cording, MS border punch

Friendship- Stamptacular Style

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Today we are celebrating friendship at Stamptacular Sunday Challenge. We'd love to have you play along and make a card for a special friend in your life.

We have TWO sponsors this week. Our very own Liza is sponsoring THIS:

and Doodle Street by Cassandra is offering:

ONE FREE DIGITAL IMAGE....Winner's choice

My card today has so many different elements to point out. I was really inspired by this Wassail paper I got on clearance. I love the blend of white with cream and tan. I never think to use white and cream together. I only ever use one or the other. It's really kind of an interesting look to combine them don't you think? I layered a sheer, cream ribbon over a white satin one in my attempt to mesh these two colors. That tiny white frame is by Melissa Frances and has a small stamped area that is the same as the main image. I used a new stamp set by Heidi Grace. It is stamped on watercolor paper that was colorwashed with Sahara Sand. I then stamped the image in Sahara Sand and then again using versamark and white embossed. The butterfly is stamped in Vanilla craft and embossed in iridescent ice. It is layered on another butterfly that is clear embossed. Don't you hate when the last thing you stamp comes out CROOKED? I was not starting over though. So this will go to a crooked friend that knows how crooked my life really is and accepts that....My Sister. Boy I miss her. She is my best friend. The person who is most like me, yet different enough to make things interesting. She is the person who gets me and my jokes and I get her. We have our own language. Eventhough she lives far away, I know that she will always be there for me as I will be for her.

Here is a picture of the inside:

So go ahead and get started. Let someone special to you know just how you feel. Make sure you check out the design team's great creations and let them know how you feel too;)

Have a great Sunday!

Nikki

What's In It?

Stamps: Bevy of Butterflies (unity), Because of You (verve), For You (heidi grace)
Ink: sahara sand, versamark, close to cocoa craft, vanilla craft

Paper: Wassail, Sahara Sand, watercolor

Other: TPS buttons, white EP,white linen thread, dimensionals, ribbon, iridescent ice EP, white Kaiser pears, Labels 4 Spellbinders

Who's Got My Hairy Toe?

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:00:00 +0000

But first, a card!

I made this card for 2 challenges this week. The Mojo Monday 110 and the Color Challenge 242 over at Splitcoast.

I didn't have Mambo Melon so I used Melon Berry from PTI. This card is a 4 3/4 square mounted on a layer of black. I made this for my friend who has been helping me out so much with lots of little things. I don't thank her enough.

Now for the title of my post..."Who's got my hairy toe?" Do you know this story? I went to a Catholic Elementary School that was run by Attila the Hun....I mean... Sister Mary the Nun. The thing that made it better was the art teacher, Mrs. Hambright. Every year she would tell us this story under a black light. It is something I never forgot. She also used to make "Stone Soup" in a big cauldron on the playground. She was so cool. I wanted to be her. A few years ago, I told this story to my daughter's class and then again last year to my son's class. It is a FUN, spooky story. My son requested that I tell it again at his class Halloween party. The problem is I couldn't find the hairy toe from last year. I really am wondering, "who's got my hairy toe?" This is the THIRD time I have had to make one. The first year someone told me it looked like another body part that we won't mention. The second one is lost and I hope this is the last one I have to make.

Here it is:

Can you imagine someone actually FINDING the one I lost last year? Hee hee! That would be so funny. Today I will be spooking the kids in 3rd grade with this Hairy Toe. It's going to be so fun!

I hope you all have a really great Halloween. My kids are going to be Elvis and Priscilla Presley. I promise to post pictures!

What's In It?

Stamps: Floral Frenzy PTI

Ink: versafine black, fresh snow, melon berry, versamark

Paper: melon berry, black, kraft

Other: clear EP, 2 way glue, dazz. diamonds, dimensionals, EK Success scallop punch, PTI ribbon, Signo gel pen, velvet brad, 1 3/4" circle punch, MM brad, paper piercer, black satin ribbon, curly label punch, cuttlebug EF

Something Wicked (and Hairy) This Way Comes....

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:01:00 +0000

.......TOMORROW!

My little guy has been pretty sick, so I didn't get the hairy toe finished yet. It MUST be done by tomorrow though. I will share it then.

For today I was able to make a card before everyone got up. This is for The Cat's Pajamas color challenge. It is a little bit simple don't you think? My attempt at KISS again. I think you could potentially do a version of this card in bulk for Christmas.

It's hard to see in the photo, but I used Tiny Twinkles on the snowflakes, as well as, iridescent ice. I'm going to make this brief. I promised I would play a board game and Dalton's getting impatient:)

What's In It?
Stamps: Snowflake Serende (PTI)
Ink: Enchanted Evening, Spring Rain, Versamark, versafine Black

Paper: Black Enchanted Evening, Spring Rain
Other: Enchanted Eve. satin ribbon, button, rhinestone brad, dimensionals, tiny twinkles, iridescent ice EP

BTW, an injury occured in the making of this card. I sliced my finger open pretty good on the metal filing cabinet that houses my paper. I'm telling you, THIS IS A DANGEROUS HOBBY! I will look pretty cool though tomorrow with a big, white bandaged finger ( maybe I'll add fake blood) AND a hairy toe...giggling evily...MOO..AH..AH..AH..:)

Nikki

I Need A KISS:)

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:22:00 +0000

If you are blowing me kisses right now, thank you. However, that's not the kind of "kiss" I'm talking about. I needed to make a Keep It Simple Silly card. I tried to keep it more simple than this, but I just couldn't help adding a few more things. I then tried to make another card that was simple and I hated it. I'm going to try it again though....maybe:) Why is simple so hard?

I made this for the Color Throwdown this week. The colors were Purely Pomegranate, Certainly Celery, and Taken With Teal. I promise those are the colors I used for the Emboss Resisted image. I cut the image out using a one of the Labels nestabilities and left it in the die while I rubbed each area with color. This was done on Glossy white cardstock. The layer below that is reverse embossed with my cuttlebug and then the corners were punched with a Fiskars corner punch. I added tiny pearl details to all the corners too. It's hard to see but the base of the card has Micro Pearl Ex rubbed all around the edges for added sparkle.

What's In It?

Stamps: Unity June KOTM

Ink: Taken with teal, Pure Pomegranate, Cert Celery, Versamarker, Versamark

Paper: Glossy White, Whisper White

Other: Cuttlebug EF, Labels, Nestie, pearl ex, kaiser pearls, sponge, white EP, white satin ribbon (Michael's), glue dot, dimensionals

I should have another post tomorrow. I think it may be "hairy" if you know what I mean:)

See you then!

October Bonus Fun Blog Hop

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:02:00 +0000

Today is the day for a really fun, very different blog hop. A blog hop like no other! Go check out all the details on the Stamptacular Sunday to find out how you can join in our Blog Hop Scavenger Hunt.

I have an extra special giveaway for you today too. You need to go check out the blog to find out how to get it though! So HOP to it!

It's Fall Y'all

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Schmaltz) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:00:00 +0000

Today at Stamptacular Sunday Challenge we love to have you join us by making a fall card. I used one of the sketches from the Verve challenges this week. They are perfect to hold on to and use again and again. I used some paper by My Mind's Eye. I'm not so great at following directions since these aren't traditional fall colors. They are more like SOOTHING fall colors. So I hope you can join us in this challenge.

Our Sponsor this week is Funky Fairy's Paper Crafts with this downloadable kit:

Make sure you check out all the cute creations this week and don't forget we are having a special blog hop today too!

What's In It?

Stamps: Great Friend, Artfully Asian

Ink: Choc Chip craft, baja breeze, sahara sand, choc chip

Paper: Soft Sky, Choc chip, Bella Bella, watercolor

Other: May Arts ribbon, lots of tags sizzlets, MS punch, clear EP, Recollections pearls