Recapturing Wonders

My Craft Table

2012-01-05T12:11:00.001-08:00

Hello, hello!!

It's been six months since I've been here in this pretty paper world of mine. I've missed it so much. With the move, home repair (which has not been completed),family moving from Michigan here to Oregon (they are currently living with me), first year of homeschooling for my 5 year old daughter (which is not fully in effect) crafts all stored in boxes... etc. I simply lost my creative fuel. But one cannot remain inactive for too long. Especially if your recommended therapy for everyday stresses is a dose of paper, scissors, glitter, stamps and ink. I went to the garage and pulled out my dusty (I know sad) craft boxes. Got myself somewhat organized and then sat at the table and stared in awe at all the pretties... Then I got up from the table and went to cook lunch. Later that afternoon I came back sat at the table and touched some of the pretties to no avail. A few minutes later went to finish laundry. I came back the next day and sighed, I wonder if I still have it in me. I have to admit I've been wanting to jump right back but haven't found the inspiration-that is until I looked outside myself. I immediately pulled out my iPad and went in search of creativity. Fluttering around through some familiar blogs I couldn't help but ooh and ahh. I mean, seriously? You girls get better and better by the day. Here are just a few of the blogs that pulled me out of the rut.

On my cyber journey I visited Therese from Lost in Paper. I just love her coloring technique and simple yet perfect card designs. Then I went to Ashley C. Newell I was thrilled to find out she's designing for PTI which in all honesty didn't surprise me. She fits right in with those awesomely talented gals. Besides that, Ashley's vintage modern designs is what always draws me in. Then I stopped by Cath's blog over at Moxie Fab World... Do I need say more? Cath is always up to date in everything trendy. Honestly, inspiration flows from the screen when I'm there. Then there's Ayana, and Betsy and I could go on and on. Literally there are hundreds of bloggers that inspire me. And I'm so glad to have them as "coaches" to bring me back to the place I love... My craft table.

I didn't turn my iPad off yet. There's one place I hold near and dear to my heart. I'm talking about the super cute company Lawn Fawn with Kelly and her design crew. These girls have a way of making stamps come to life in the sweetest way. I've ordered 4 stamps in the last couple of months (still new) and while visiting her fawn world I found just what I needed to bring me back from this stupor...Winter CHA Challenge. I grabbed my Admit One stamp set and for the first time inked it up. Mind you it's been with me for at least two months. Once the wheels got spinning, saw all the inspiration and took the challenge. It didn't take long to realize I was in the right place.

Oh the joy of creating. There's something magical of turning individual pieces into a complete and beautiful whole. Why I love this hobby? I'll never be able to pinpoint it but one thing I do know and I'll say it in the words of Elbert Hubard, "Art is not a thing; it is a way" and I have certainly found mine-at my craft table.

Thanks for joining me once again on this my creative journey.

Hugs,
Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: Basic off-white, cardboard

Stamps: Lawn Fawn Admit One

Ink: Palette burnt umber, Martha Stewarts aqua

Others: yarn, color pencils, stickles

Celebrate

2011-06-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well hello there...

*Click image for clearer view*

I didn't mean to be gone for so long. But we are currently in transition. As of two days ago we are officially in Oregon. The weather has been great and the scenery spectacular. On the downside we are still in search of a home. Some great friends of ours were gracious enough to allows us to stay in their home for the summer till we find a place of our own. So we are really pressed with time and praying that God will lead us to the right place.

My craft studio is in boxes in California and to say that I miss them would be a huge understatement. But I do have some cards I created before packing up which I haven't shared with you all :)

-And while I may not be in a celebration mode there is plenty to be grateful for like this sweet card I'll be giving to a great friend of mine on her birthday :)

I love the newsprint pattern paper and the splash of colors. The sentiment was both handwriting and a stamp. The sweet flower from Lawn Fawn's petite florals with a dab of shimmer adds the perfect amount of embellishment to this sweet birthday card.

Thanks for coming by I'll be back soon with pics from around the area I'm currently at and more.

Hugs,

Jessica

Coolest Dad

2011-06-08T07:24:00.000-07:00

Hi!

I'm back today to share my take on this weeks Tuesday Trigger over at Moxie Fab World. I found this challenge to be quite irresistible and the reason being I just bought 12 molds to make the cutest popsicles and I also found a yummy recipe book ;)

So my inspiration from the scrumptious looking image was the popsicle itself. I've been wanting to create one for sometime now and this challenge just pulled me right over.

To create it I used PTI's summer rise & kraft cardstock, studio G frame and a handwritten sentiment to go with it. And just to add to the look I wrapped it up in a clear sheet. From top to bottom of stick this card measures 6" x 21/2 (at the widest end).

Today seems like it'll be sunny and warm day, might be tempted to make a few popsicles ;)

Thanks for coming by!
Hugs,
Jessica

Just Saying Thank You

2011-06-07T08:41:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Hope your week is going well so far. Mine has been wonderful!! I wanted to stop today and share a couple of cards I created for the latest Lawnscaping Challenge #11: CAS. This one was very fun and I decided to go with bright, summery fun colors.

This card is very straight forward. I stamped a single flower from the Lawn Fawn's petite florals in different hues and then added a sentiment. What added the detail was the rounded corners.

This second card is just as fun. I used the same exact color combo but did something totally different. I used Lawn Fawn's judy's blooms on the circle rims and the tiny asterisk from harold's abc and created a collage. Again the details are what makes a CAS card stand out.

Here is a close-up of where I added some of the detail. Each little asterisk has a drop of glitter. The rounded corners also add detail to a card without distracting the eye-keeping the end result CAS :)

Thanks for coming by! Have a happy hopefully warm day ;)

Hugs,
Jessica

Sewn With Love

2011-06-03T11:38:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Aren't you excited it's Friday!! Well I know I definitely am especially because I have a card I created for the new Moxie Fab World: I'm Sew Excited Challenge!!!

A bit about how this card came to be...

Inspired by a childhood dream: I think every little girl admires her mommy. Well I was no different and growing up I remember going into her room and seeing all the pretty things mommies have in there vanities like make-up of all colors and shapes, shoes of all kinds; flats, heels, boots and then there was the powder, oh how I loved that big fluffy powder pad (or however you call it) and then the perfumes... and if you grew up with a mom who knew how to sew (which I didn't) you'd get to see her creations on the maiden form and perhaps even get measured up for something pretty (this is where the dream part comes in) I always wished one of those pretty dresses on the form would be mine. I remember going to Manhattan and looking into those french stores and all the pretty dresses displayed on the windows would make my eyes glow as if enchanted by their beauty... how I dreamed I'd get to try one on. Well that dream did come true and I did get measured up and I did get to play pretty for a day; it was my wedding day!! But that's a whole different story ;)

Now for the card and some details... I used some fun materials for this one.

For the "mirror" I used a sheet of high gloss faux aluminum cardstock from Paper Source. Then To create the pretty frame I used a 4" paper doily. Which I cut in half then glued it to create an oval and then using my oval shape nestabilities cut out a frame. I then used pigment ink (dabbed right on to it)to add the coordinating color

Because I had different elements on the outside of the card and had sort of created a room theme I decided to add the sentiment on the inside. Sorry for the quality of this image I'll try taking a better shot ;)

And of course the highlight of this my card is the actual sweet little form. I used Lawn Fawn's sew lovely stamp set and dressed it up. I used tulle, silver pen and a measuring tape line rub-on which I adhered to vellum. I think it's so feminine and pretty.

I think my best friend (which was also my maid of honor way back when) will enjoy this card so much especially if I pair it up with some memories of that special day when we were princesses for a day :)

Thanks for coming by!! Enjoy your weekend.

Hugs,
Jessica

Congrats

2011-06-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

Hello.

I'm here to post my creation for this weeks CAS-ual Friday Challenge #4. This time it's all dedicated to graduates. My card was inspired by an old good friend of mine. When I graduated from HS he told me not to think I was over yet.. but to embrace the beginning of a new chapter. I think this is true whether you're graduating from pre-school, JH, HS or college. Life is about ending chapters and beginning new ones. With those thought in mind this is what I came up with:

Here's what the card looks like.

Overall is a fun collage of school themes. The quote is from PTI's All booked up set and reads: "The love of learning, the sequestered nooks, and all the sweet serenity of books". ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Thanks for coming by!!

Hugs,

Jessica

::Supplies::

Cardstock: Martha Stewart's ocean

Stamps: PTI's All Booked Up, Mixed Messages, Vap Scrap graduation cap, recollections numbers

Ink: PTI's smokey shadow, memento tuxedo black,

Others: zig millennium pen, silver pen, watercolor (for book, small black brad

Thinking Of You

2011-05-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hello.

I just wanted to pop in quickly to post this card I've had sitting on my table for a week now. I've been purging my craft room getting it ready for it's trip to Oregon and had a few scraps I thought were too cute to trash and I'm glad I didn't because this card wouldn't exist :)

Thanks for coming by. I have a few creations I'm working on for some challenges. I'll see you later!!

Hugs,
Jessica

Heureux Day

2011-05-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

Hello.

I hope you all had a wonderful memorial day weekend. It's amazing how much our nation has gone through in order to keep the freedoms we so much enjoy.

Today I want to share a card I created for the Embellish Text Challenge. Lately I've been experimenting with my very own handwriting. It can be a bit intimidating because of all the wonderful fonts out there. But still there's nothing like a handwritten detail. This card has just that a tiny detail. I stamped the sentiment using Cavallini Papers & Co. alphabet stamps and then wrote the word "heureux" which means happy in french with zig millennium pen 01.

Here's the complete card. I thought of adding some embellishments but then decided to allow the sentiment to be the focal point of this card.

Over all it's a simple, fun and easy card to create. Thanks for coming by. I'm off to enjoy the sun :)

Heureux day!!

Jessica

Doodles & Watercolors

2011-05-27T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hello.

The weekend has finally arrived!! I love a 7 day cycle, don't you? I mean you live, love, laugh & rest :) Can't complain when described that way, huh.

Anyhow I don't know if any of you noticed the mess I had on this website since last night. Boy, I tell you playing around with codes and all the tiny pieces a blog requires is quite the task. Especially if one knows nothing about the matter. However, I'm pleased to announce that I survived it and quite frankly found it very interesting. Something I'll definitely try again.

I wanted to share a few images of how the header came to be. This morning I was in my craft room and didn't really feel like stamping for some odd reason. But I still had a desire to create something. So instead I grabbed my watercolors, a pencil, paper and this is what I came up with.

I began to draw a few of the things I enjoy, like stamping, cooking, painting and day dreaming of a distant time and land where life will be complete where loved one will be together, sickness won't exist, etc...

This is what my sheet of paper looked after 30 minutes.

Here's a close up of the now header of my blog. I imagined myself sitting on a puffy cloud waiting for a kite to give me a lift :)

Through all this I learned a lot, most importantly the fact that if you can imagine it; it's because it {can} be done. Simple and yet so profound. In the next few weeks I'll be ~~working~~ trying to make some more updating on my blog. So please pardon any glitches you may encounter (though I don't perceive anything major).

Thanks for coming by. Hope your weekend is full of sunshine and laughter together with loved one.

Hugs,

Jessica

Papertrey May Blog Hop Challenge

2011-05-25T06:53:00.000-07:00

Hello.

*Click on the image(s) for clearer view*

Welcome to my blog... I'm glad you came!! For today I have a card made exclusively for this months Papertrey Ink Blog Hop. Just in case you missed the details you can check them out {here}. The card as usual is very simple. To create it I used My Minds Eye Out & About pre-folded double side card. To it I added a scallop oval in Lushes Hip & Luxurious pattern paper also by My Minds Eye and then I stamped the Silhouette image on vintage cream cardstock by Papertrey Ink. I then added pearls to the image and finalized my project with some pretty felt flowers.

Here's a close up of the flowers. I used Papertrey Ink melon berry & spring moss felt. The template is Papertrey Ink Flower Fusion #2. To make them a bit more ruffled I simply used my glue gun cut a slit on one of the petals and folded around. The leaf was just an oval scissor cut :)

Thanks for stopping by. Hope you have a wonderful day full of inspiration!!
Hugs,
Jessica

One Of A Kind

2011-05-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hello.

For today I have a card I created for the current Embellish {Tag} challenge. It's been a while since I've participated in there challenges and boy how I've missed them. When I saw this one I knew immediately what I was going to create. A card with tags (how profound, huh). I literally mean that!

*Click on image(s) for better view*

To create it I used one of my regular tags; traced it onto my different color cardstock then cut them out (a punch would've been easier but didn't have one). I used a shimmery kind of cool gray cardstock for my center embellishment which was the focal point. The sentiment is handwritten using my Zig Millennium 03 pen.

Overall I love this card because of the colors and the simple design. I think I'll make a few of these in different colors just to have on hand ;)

Well I'm off to do some more packing for my move to Oregon in 3 or so weeks. Thanks for stopping by.

Enjoy your day!!
Jessica

Thinking Of You

2011-05-23T10:09:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today I just wanted to pop in to share a card I created for the current Casual Friday Challenge #3: Bring the Bling. I recently discovered this blog and must say I'm in love and the reason being of course is that I love CAS. It is the best way to define my creative style :) So without further a do here's my creation.

I've been wanting to make a heart/flower wreath for a while with {these} Lawn Fawn sweet flowers. This challenge made that possible. To create it I stamped the image using Memento Tuxedo Black and then colored in the center of the flower with markers. I assembled them in a heart shape and adhered using Tombo multi liquid glue (love this stuff). I did some faux stitching. Then I finished off by adding my sentiment and adding the bling factor. Which in this case I used stickles (fruit punch, yellow & star dust).

Here's a close up so you can see the shimmery detail. It's so pretty.

Thanks for coming by. I'm off to run some errands and pack some more. Hope you have a great Monday!!!!

Hugs,
Jessica

Lawnscaping Challenge #10

2011-05-21T17:04:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today I have a fun card I created for the current Lawnscaping challenge: Polka Dots. I thought I'd use one of my favorite summer sets from Lawn Fawn. There's nothing more appealing than polka dots and there are so many ways to use them. For this challenge I used them as a means to portray each or better said most of the images in this lovely set. To create the circles I simply traced a 1 1/2" circle using a Zig millennium 03 pen. I then stamped the images using palette noir. Then I colored in the images.

The end result a card full of bright jumbo polka dots. And if you love polka dots as much as me then you end up making the polka dot the star of your creation :) Thanks for coming by. Hope your saturday is full of laughter and the making of great memories.

Hugs,
Jessica

Sun Kissed

2011-05-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hi.

Today I wanted to post a quick card for the latest Moxie Fab World Challenge: Chevron Chic. I think the pattern is super cute and trendy. So I went through my craft stash hoping to find something to fit the call and couldn't find anything. I mean no stamp, no pattern paper or embellishment. So I used one of Lawn Fawn's cute stamps sets {swimsuit season} and got creative. Using my EK Success Writer markers I was able to come up with my very own sweet pattern in colors I love :)

Well I'm off. I have some packing to do and cleaning. Lovely weekend ahead and don't want to be caught in the house ;)

Hugs,
Jessica

Maybe A Cupcake Will Help

2011-05-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Hello.

It's been a week since I've been around. I've missed you all :) I'll tell you things pile high rather quickly. I had some minor oral surgery (kept me down for two days), then my daughter had the nasty flu, and finally I found out that our move to Oregon is official, Eugene here we come!!! So to say that my house has been hectic for the last week would be a major understatement.

Nothing like a cupcake to ease the confusion... especially if it's stamped and colored in yummy colors ;) Lately I've been creating treat cards. Like the one above. They are cute and easy to pair with anything. If you just want to say hello, miss you, love you, happy birthday... a cupcake will do the job. From the many I have in my stamp collection I found myself attracted to the yummy Lawn Fawn treats. Here are a couple of more cards created with {this} stamp set from Lawn Fawn.

I used the same color scheme for all three since it's so cheery.

There you have it my craving for cupcakes has been somewhat appeased... Hope you enjoyed the inspiration. I'll be back soon to post some more creations.

On a different note a very exciting one too. My blog is going to go through some major changes. I hope to make it easier to navigate, clean and I'll be including my newest project which is crafty but on a different level. I'll be posting more as the day gets closer!! I can't wait to share it with you all :)

Hugs,

Jessica

Hello Sweet Friend

2011-05-11T09:38:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Mid week already... I don't want to sound so cliche but time does fly. What is it? Age, busy-ness, fun, or all of the above? Which ever one relates to you I know for a fact that all this teaches me is to appreciate everyday that comes my way!

For today I wanted to quickly share a very simple card I created for a good friend of mine. I wanted to incorporate the pattern paper and some what allow it to stand out just because I like it :) The embellie is a punchout and the sentiment is from PTI set and my own handwriting. Because the design was so simple I thought I'd add some depth to it by adding layers to my base card. Overall I think it's a sweet card ;)

Hope you have a wonderful day!
Hugs,
Jessica

Thinking Of You

2011-05-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hello.

One of the things I've been enjoying lately is creating cards using pattern cardstock as my base. Cardmaking becomes simple, challenging (depending on the color pattern paper and materials at hand to create embellies) and they are just fun to make especially if your planning on making one for every occasion that comes your way :)

Today I created a card that uses only three elements. A butterfly which I already had colored and cut (from a previous project), a stamp and a fine tip marker. It literally took less than 5 minutes to put this card together. The overall effect is simple, fun and cute.

One of the many things I enjoy about this hobby is that it brings friends together from every corner of the globe. Sometimes you might even find some close to you. Today I have a card making party at my house and can't wait to get crafty with friends. I love gleaning inspiration from others. So with that being said I'm off to prepare my house. Thanks for coming by :)

Have a great Tuesday!
Jessica

Sending You Warm Wishes

2011-05-09T15:06:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Hope you had a fabulous mothers day!!! Mine was simply lovely. I was able to celebrate with my two greatest gifts of all my husband and sweet daughter and as a plus I received {this} very pretty fragrance from Lolia

It's been quiet around here lately. I haven't forgotten you I've been working on home projects, homeschooling, etc., you all know how it goes. I love it when it's time to sit at the table and work on cards or anything crafty. So for today I have a few more attempts at the Tissue Paper Magic Challenge over at Moxie Fab World. Today is the last day so you have a couple of more hours to give this challenge a try :)

First up is one of my favorites cards. I sent it out to my husbands aunt for mothers day. To create it I used PTI's Up, Up & Away balloon and cloud and Hero Arts mega sentiment. I stamped the hot air balloon and then took tissue paper (single sheet) with a bowl of water beside me and created strands. I then adhered them to the balloon and cut it out. Because tissue paper was the star of the occasion I created a ruffle to bring my card oh so beautifully together (at least in my sight).

Here's a close up of the strands on the hot air balloon. The overall effect is quite pretty and the texture is lovely.

Next up is a flower hair clip I made for my daughter. I used 5 layers of tissue paper. I stamped the upper sheet and then cut out petals. I glued all the sheets together to create one thick sheet and then used mod podge on every petal twice. I did the same for the leaves. I finished off with a chrome colored pearl.

This is how it looks on the back. Very clean and very easy to use.

Last tissue paper project for this challenge (I'm working on other projects) is of course a tutu. My little girl has two of these around the house. They are loved and used daily. So I used my daughters little tutu as an inspiration for this sweet welcome baby card. To create it I stamped my baby onsie image and then over it I layered 12 single tissue paper petals. I then used one of my left over strands from my hot air balloon and used it as a band. I finished off by adding an orange flower brad. To bring it all together I finished off by stamping the sentiment using the same orange as the flower and creating a faux stitch and some distressing.

Hope you found some inspiration. I have some more cards I've created but I'll share those with you another time. Thanks for coming by and for all your sweet comments on my previous posts :)

Hugs,
Jessica

A Life Long Stitch

2011-04-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

Hello.

It's been a few days since I've been around. I went on an impromptu trip to Oregon on one of my husbands business trip. It was fun but very tiering especially when done with a 4 year old (she's an awesome traveler).

Any how I have been creating more projects/cards for mother's day and today I wanted to share one of them which I also created for the Moxie Fab World: Tissue Paper Magic. It's amazing how simple it is to incorporate tissue paper in projects once your minds been challenged.

This card is a sweet super girly card. I used the tissue paper as a frame. Because I was going to do some stitching and because I'm not good at it I thought making it the theme of the card was the way to go. So I incorporated elements that were fitting (buttons, thread spools, sentiment).

Over all I love this card because of the different textures (the sentiment is embossed white) and color palette. If you look closely the spools have real thread around them which gives it such a natural touchy look.

Thanks for coming by. I have a few more cards/project I created with tissue paper. But I'll share those with you some other time. Bye, bye for now :)

Hugs,

Jessica

Oh Sew Lovely

2011-04-24T21:54:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Hope you had a fabulous weekend!! Mine was relaxed which means it was wonderful :)

Today I was sitting at my craft table wondering what to create for the latest Moxie Fab World Challenge: Tissue Paper Magic... I came up with a mini travel size sewing kit. What I love most of course is the little bag which is entirely made of tissue paper.

Fun, huh!! I am so in love with this little purse. To create it I drew out a template. Then I stitched the template before cutting it; if not the tissue paper becomes totally uneven and messy (I used 7 sheets of tissue paper per panel). Once stitched I stamped and distressed it. Then stitched the purse together (ignore the stitches please;) and covered with Mod Podge gloss lustre. Finished off by sewing button and adhering velcro dots to open and close my tiny purse. I stuffed it with super cute PTI spools which I wrapped up with thread enough to cover up any emergency and a set of needles. I'm also going to add a small zip lock bag of black, white & grey buttons (now that I know they'll fit).

Here's a close up shot of the front of the mini bag. It measures 4" x 4 1/4" (excluding the flap). The texture is the best part of this purse. It's almost like a plastic-y fabric. Super easy to work with.

This is a rear view.

So what do you think? Can you imagine the possibilities... if you used patterned tissue paper or designed different styles of cute wallets/purses or stamped whatever you fancied...? You can even sew a zipper!! My daughter already pre ordered a purple one and I want one to match my purse ;)

Anyhow, thanks for visiting and go ahead give this challenge a try. Let me know what you come up with. I can always find inspiration from you all.

Have a great day!
Hugs,
Jessica

Gearing Up

2011-04-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Hi.

Recently I've been working on graduation and birthday gifts for some dear friends/family. Now I'm gearing up for mother's day. That's what todays card is about. This one I'll be pairing up with a tea set and a book.

The card is very simple and yet classy enough for a mother's day gift set. I'm working on creating more of these in different color combos (just the flower really). When I finish them I'll post a pic for you all to see :)

To create it I used Amy Butler K&Company and PTI's All Booked Up stamp sets. It's a single panel card with just the one flower popped up for contrast. I used my corner rounder and a sweet sentiment. That makes this card very easy to replicate many times.

How are you coming along with your mother's day cards/gift sets? If you have any sweet ideas don't hesitate to share them with me ;) I'm always on the look out for fresh ideas. One can never have too much inspiration :)

Well gotta go! It's Friday and here in my home every end of the week is a celebration!! Literally. So I have some cleaning and cooking to do. Enjoy your weekend!!

Blessings,
Jessica

Hello Spring

2011-04-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today I have a card I created for Moxie Fab World's Tuesday Trigger. When I saw the image I found it irresistible. Aren't those colors inspiring? So spring-y.

The one thing that popped out from this image were its colors. I wanted to create a card that captured the warmth and "season" of these classic shades. So here's my take... a little girl flying a kite amidst pretty flowers.

Here's a close up shot of the sweet dolly. I used color pencils for her (Crayola).

And finally a back view of the card.

My definition of spring encapsulated in one circular card {sigh}.

**Hi I just wanted to add that I am adding this card to Wee Memories Challange. This time is all about cute (thanks Laura for the suggestion ;). Today is the last day for this challenge so hurry, hurry you have till midnight!

Thanks for coming!! Hopefully this card inspires you to give this challenge a try :)

Hugs,
Jessica

Eco Pretties

2011-04-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hello.

I'm back!! I have one more set of cards I created a couple of days ago. This one is super simple and eco friendly too!! I created it in honor of the upcoming Earth Day celebration. These cuties are made using PTI's Flower Fusion #2. I love the images... so simple, so pretty and so affordable. How can you go wrong with that ;)

I made six cards in total. The design was the same the only thing that changed was the sentiment and the color of the flower (which was adhered to the inside of the card). I also traced the outside of the flower to give it more definition. Here's the set of six. Click on the image for clearer view.

Well I'm off to finish my Tuesday Trigger card. Speaking of which, have you seen the trigger for this week? I love it!! It is so springy and girly. You should definitely go check it out.

Thanks for coming by. I'll see ya later!

Jessica

Pretty Thing

2011-04-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

This is my final project for the Home Decor challenge over at Moxie fab World. This one I created for my library. I love books... old vintage books (I have some from the early 1900's), modern classy books and everything in between. I don't know if journals count as a book because if they do then I definitely love those too :)

I snatched this pretty frame about 2 or 3 months ago. I knew I wanted to create something with it but didn't know what. Until Cath came along with all that yummy inspiration and a few stamps, punches and inks later here's the end result. I love how all those bright medallions look and the sentiment is ideal.

Thanks for coming by!!
Hugs,
Jessica

Butterfly Wishes

2011-04-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today I have another canvas I crated for the Home Decor challenge over at Moxie Fab. I love to create these paper goodies not to mention the inspiration from you girls makes it so easy to come up with ideas for my long list of gifts. Love it!! For this one project in particular I'm hoping to make a set of three (not sure how though) for my daughter's room.

To create it I used an 8" X 8" canvas (again from the dollar store) and then cut out these pretty butterflies using my Papertrey Ink butterfly die. I finished off the canvas with a twist in one of PTI's Up, Up & Away sentiments. To create it I used webster pages cardstock letter stickers and my handwriting.

Thanks for all your sweet comments on my previous projects!! You girls make my day and also inspire me to create more :)

I'm off to blow bubbles with my little girl. Enjoy your afternoon/evening.

Hugs,
Jessica

Birthday Wishes

2011-04-18T13:50:00.000-07:00

Ok. Here is my third and final attempt at the In My Beautiful Balloon Challenge over at Moxie Fab World. I just couldn't resist posting up this flower made out of hot air balloons. I believe the possibilities are truly endless with this set.

To create it I simply stamped two of the hot air balloon images of the PTI Up, Up, & Away stamp set (which I love). I stamped it alternating the images (big one, small one, etc). Then I cut out as a whole and then cut through the lines to create depth. I added white to some of the stripes to create a pattern and to bring the focus to the blue center. Which is then completed by the blue background. I finished off with a sentiment from the same set. CAS!

Hope you've enjoyed these creations and are inspired to try something fun and different :)

Hugs,
Jessica

Fly Away With Me

2011-04-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hi.

I wanted to stop quickly to post another sweet and simple card I created for Moxie Fab World In My Beautiful Balloon challenge.

This card literally took me 10-15 min. to create. I love the colors and the clean design. I think I might be making a set of these. Think of it- a set of 7 cards one in every color shown in the balloon. It'd be such a bright set :)

Thanks for coming by!! In the meantime I'll be working on other fun challenges. I love all the inspiration. You ladies are all so amazing. TFS!!

See ya later!!
Jessica

Up & Away

2011-04-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

Hi.

I'm back to post my take on two of Moxie Fab World challenges- In My Beautiful Ballon and Home Decor.

Just like I mentioned in an earlier post these challenges couldn't have come at a better time. I'm loving creating these goodies for friends and loved ones. This one in particular is a gift set for someone very dear to me. She's graduating this year and I thought the sentiment in the canvas was very appropriate. The simplicity of this set makes it a winner. You can make one for every graduate or birthday boy/girl in your family by just changing color and sentiment. The best thing is how affordable they are- and really, who doesn't appreciate a homemade gift? :)

Here's an image of the canvas. It's an 8" X 8" plain white canvas I snatched from my local dollar store. I'm working on a coordinating set (3) for my daughters room. Can't wait to show you :)

Thanks for coming by. I'm sorry for the quality of the image. I'll be attempting more shots throughout the day. For now click on the image for clearer view.
**Hopefully this is a better image. I'm awful at taking pictures of white projects**

Hope your week sets off to great jumpstart!!
Hugs,
Jessica

Materials:
Stamps: PTI's Up, Up, & Away
Cardstock: Basic White
Other: Color inks, pen and canvas

Around The House

2011-04-17T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Life around here is never dull. Although I don't take the time to chronicle every single event I can assure you something crafty is always happening. We're always on the look out for wholesome fun.

Lately we've been we've been on experimenting mode. My 4 year old daughter is my best helper :)

First up easter eggs. I've never blown out eggs before so I though this year would be it. I wen t and bought some free range organic chicken eggs and began the not so tedious process. To my surprise it was easier than I anticipated. I manage to blow out 11 out of the 12 (only one cracked). The hardest thing for me is decorating them. Here the only one I've done so far. I want to be able to preserve them and also want a CAS design on them. So I'm still looking for ideas (suggestions welcomed).

I dyed the egg with very light pink pigment then took the border of my Sassafrass sweet marmalade pattern paper and adhered it around then finished it with tutti fruity glitter. It looks better in real life.

Next up a Gluten free triple berry macadamia muffin. I've been experimenting with gluten free baked goods from breads to desserts and everything in between. With this special diet I've noticed that the key for good eating is to plan ahead. I don't buy frozen or packaged foods because they don't always taste good and they are very expensive. So making everything from scratch is crucial and also more enjoyable :)

This muffin recipe is a compilation of recipes. I'm still trying to simplify it and when I do if you're interested in it shoot me an email and I'll be more than happy to share it with you :) If you are not GF then try it with your favorite blueberry muffin recipe simply substitute the blueberries for triple berries and add macadamias. It's a real treat and plus it looks pretty.

And last but certainly not least... we've begun our herb garden. My daughter has her tiny flat and I have mine. We are growing cilantro, parsley, oregano, basil and chamomile (just for the pretty flowers and we love the tea). So far everything is blooming wonderfully. We can't wait to transfer them to our vintage pots and display them in the kitchen where they will be used for our everyday cuisine.

Well those are some of the things that have kept us busy around here lately. I'm also working on some more projects for the Moxie Fab World Challenges. I'll be back in a few to post up my take on the In My Beautiful Balloon challenge. Today is the last day so hurry and get your creative caps on and see you there ;)

Hope your Sunday is full of wonder and charm!!
Hugs,
Jessica

Miss You

2011-04-15T16:02:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Hope you've all been enjoying your spring so far. I know I was definitely off to great start!

First off the weeks just went by like a breeze... my sister came and spent 10 days with me. And if you have a sister (or a best girlfriend) then you know how it goes. We laughed and laughed, ate great food, had lots of fun, watched movies and the best of it all we had long talks (relationship, life, career, etc). Our outdoor exploring was kept to a minimum do to the terrible rainy weather. But that didn't stop us from having a blast. I miss her tons already. Hopefully she'll spend summer with me ;)

And then...

Have you been to Moxie Fab World lately? Cath is hosting loads of paper crafting challenges. When I was browsing I couldn't help but join in the fun. I mean why not? I have easter, mother's day, graduation, a couple of birthdays... needless to say I'm in need of some homemade goodies for these coming up events and what best way to get them juices flowing than with a challenge :)

Today I'm sharing my take on the Card Set Challenge.

I created this very simple combo (my intention is to make one for 4 very special ladies in my life for mother's day) using 6 pieces of cardstock and some scraps. Nothing went to waist... I love it when that happens. The package is sophisticated and rustic and the cards are elegant with an organic flare.

Here's a view of the little package all sealed up ready for mailing :)

This is a close up of the way I chose to fasten my little package. I thought of velcro but then decided to go a it more of the classic route ;)

For a better view click on the images.

Don't worry I'll be making more of these sets and next time I'll post a how to guide (not like any of you pros need it or anything just for my records ;)

Thanks for coming by and try giving this challenge a shot.

Have a great Friday!!

Hugs,

Jessica

Spring Theme

2011-04-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

Hi.

Just wanted to pop in quickly to share a card a card I made a few weeks ago. This was for a very good friend of mines birthday. I thought because it's so close to spring that I'd create something reminiscing that. Sorry for the quality of the image but the card had to go and I was only able to shoot twice :)

I love the color and the texture. The bottom blue is glittery and the bird is a sticker I placed on some PTI spring moss cardstock.

Sorry for the quick stop but I have tons to do including a nearly 3 hour drive to the city to pick up my sweet sister who's going to be with me for spring break. I can't wait :)

I'm off... have a fabulous weekend!!!
Hugs,
Jessica

You Make Me Smile

2011-03-30T06:24:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Have you ever stopped to wonder the effects a smile has on someone? It can turn away anger and melt away fear. A genuine smile is the most beautiful adornment anyone can wear and the best thing of it all is that it's free!!!

At home with spring coming on in full force we can't help but smile. We planted our herbs and the cleaning business is nearly done (that's why I've been away). Doesn't a sun shiny morning inspire you to sit by a clean organized craft table and make pretty stuff? I know it inspires me.

This card came about after tiding up my craft corner. At the end of each week I go through my table and sort all my scraps (I dislike paper cluttered everywhere). Then I decide what to keep and what to trash. So last week I was going through my regular routine and I found a few pieces of cardstocks. The brown panel was from a card I messed up and was going to trash. Instead I cut out the piece that was good and created the backdrop for this card. Then I had some other scraps like the thin strips on the left.. those are from a previous project I'd done which needed trimming and I happened to have those still on my table. Mind you these are things I normally trash. The butterfly was another project that didn't work out... I cut it out and used as a focal point. I finished it with a super sweet Hero Arts jumbo sentiment.

Not bad huh! Especially when all this was supposed to be in the trash ;)

Thanks for stopping!!
Have a great day and remember to smile :)
Hugs,
Jessica

You're So Kind

2011-03-23T11:51:00.000-07:00

Hi.

I just wanted to pop in quickly and share a card I made for some sweet friends of ours. They were so kind in letting us stay at their place on such short notice. I was in between travels so I had no time to prepare something super fancy but then again is it always necessary?

I love the simplicity of this card and how beautifully (personal opinion) it conveys the message. The best thing is how quickly it all came together. Don't you just love when that happens?!

Anyhow a little secret here... the "tree" is a leaf I collected last fall. I've been using it ever since as a template. The possibilities are endless... gather all sorts of pattern paper and the end result a forest of colors in all sizes and shapes. The "tree trunk" is an old pine needle I found along a trail. I'm sure a toothpick would work just as good. I love texture on my cards because it gives them so much dimension and character without over doing it :)

Well I'm off to care for my child and rush all my home duties in order to get crafty later this afternoon.

Thanks for coming by and please feel free to share any tips or things you do to add character to your projects. I can always use ideas ;)

Hugs,
Jessica

A Great Friend

2011-03-22T07:43:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Yesterday was another grey day around my neck of the woods. We did have a tiny break were the sun shared its glorious light only for a few minutes though... but you know I'm not complaining all this rain is forcing all the tiny hidden buds to burst wide open. It's encouraging life after many months of apparent death. So while the rain falls here or there where you are at remember it's simply helping the earth to grow :)

Now for a card. Lately I've been coloring with pencils. I've tried markers but I guess I'm going to need a tutorial for that ;) But color pencils is a whole different story. I absolutely love the simplicity and the detail it adds to any image.

Isn't this image from Hero Arts sweet?! The photo doesn't do justice but it gives you an idea.

Here's the full card. I love this color combo so much I might have to use it on other projects.

Thanks for stopping by! Hope your day is bursting with joy and gladness and some creativity ;)

Hugs,

Jessica

Some Sweet & Unusual Things

2011-03-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

Good Day!!!

It's good to be back. Honestly, I've missed you all so much :) It's been pretty busy around the Rosario family's house. Not to mention a bit unusual. First of all look at this image from my window. You'd think this is some 3 months ago but no this is our first day of spring (yesterday)!! It never snows where we are at let alone on the first day of spring. However, we are enjoying the coziness and the opportunity to once again bring out some of our favorite winter recipes. From sweet sticky rolls to potato soup. Ha, who would've thought all this on the first day of spring :)

Another odd and yet wonderful thing is the adoption of our sweet Keah. The little kitty was a feral cat and was at the Humane Society for nearly 4 months. They don't usually keep them that long but since this princess was so gentle and loving they decided to keep her just a bit longer. I'm so happy they did... My husband is kind enough to give me a sort of free day almost weekly where he takes care of the house (food, dishes, laundry, our daughter, literally the house) and on one of those days I decided to go to the Animal Shelter. To my surprise (I say this because I'm not a natural cat lover or so I thought) I saw this sweet kitty. The moment I petted her it was love at once. I immediately filled out the adoption papers just to put her on hold I still had to ask my husband if it was ok to have an indoor cat. Now he is definitely not a cat person so I was a bit worried about asking but what to do? I already had all the paper work filled out! So I began my appeal... Fortunately it didn't take long. The next day everyone was anxious to go meet Keah. I new they (husband & daughter) would not be disappointed once they met her...

Aren't her eyes simply gorgeous!! She's nine months old and full of curiosity. Needless to say she's our spoiled kitty. Everyone's happy she's here especially me ;) As for my puppy Mia. We ended up leaving her with my sister and mom since they took care of her for the most part of her puppyhood. We thought it was the best and most fair thing to do. Fortunately we get to see her and spoil her too :)

I love how things that aren't necessarily planned turn out usually for the best. I guess it's the "lens" through which we view it.

Have a great day!! I still hope for some shinny warm weather but for now I'll pull out my snuggly hot tea and the latest Paper Craft magazine and enjoy another winterish day ;)

Hugs,

Jessica

It's About Time

2011-03-09T20:27:00.000-08:00

Hello.

I'm sorry I've been away for so long. I've been working on many projects... some I hope to post here on the near future ;)

Anyhow, I hope you've had an awesome week thus far. Mine is now getting to be a bit normal... last week I was at one of my best friends wedding. I was one of her brides maid and was also in charge of wedding favors (which I can't believe we didn't take pictures of). We had a blast... I'll post pics when I edit them :)

Because of the occasion I thought I'd post this card. I created it for another friend of mine. The reason I chose the sentiment "time" is because I wanted to write a message inside that showed the importance of spending quality time with God and each other.

I coordinated the card with a calendar. In it I marked the day and time they got married and it will hopefully be a little token or reminder of the sacred vows they made each other that day.

Well I'm off to create. Hope you find some time to make something pretty today :)

Thanks for stopping by!
Hugs,
Jessica

Hello Friend

2011-02-25T10:26:00.000-08:00

Hello.

I'm just popping in quickly to post this CAS card I created for the Moxie Fab World Stamping with Markers Challenge.

I thought the samples Cath posted were so cute and couldn't help but be inspired. I have to admit here that I have not yet ventured whole hearted to coloring with markers (they intimidate me) but I have to tell you when I created this card I can guarantee you it was love at first try. So to say the least this challenge has been nothing but a teaser ;)

Go ahead and give this challenge a try and see how you feel about coloring with markers (if you haven't fallen in love already). Even if you don't color with markers or anything maybe the prize may allure you to give it a try ;)

Have a great weekend!! I'll be looking for your pretty creations over at Moxie Fab :)

Hugs,
Jessica

Love Never Ends

2011-02-24T16:22:00.000-08:00

Hello.

I hope you've all had a wonderful week so far. I am enjoying mine quite a bit.

It wasn't my intention to have such a quiet blog but I have been working on my daughters weekly schedule. She's four and we are just getting ready for some homeschooling. I am so excited. I just received packets of information and have been looking through them and comparing materials... altogether I am enjoying this new stage of my daughters development so much. If you have any ideas/suggestions for a four year old please do not hesitate to share ;)

As far as crafty stuff goes... well I am still trying to get acquainted with my software but that hasn't kept me from creating. Todays cards however, are some I've been meaning to share for a while now. I made these for valentines. I still have another batch to share with you as soon as I get good shots (taking pictures of red cards is tougher than I thought).

Anyhow here they are :)

I thought I'd challenge myself using the same colors and focal image. They designs are similar and yet so different. It's amazing how positioning an image can change the look entirely.

Thanks for stopping by!!

Hugs,

Jessica

Vintage Cuties

2011-02-15T16:40:00.000-08:00

Hi again.

Just wanted to share these super cute cards...

What do you think? I found them at an antique shop. I was so excited I just had to buy them. Only one of them is dedicated and it's from the 50's the rest are "new".

Thought I's share them with you :)

Have a sweet day!!
Jessica

Thinking Of You

2011-02-15T16:20:00.000-08:00

Hello.

Hope you had a wonderful valentine's day! I certainly had a lovely time. My husband created the most romantic scene in front of our fireplace. We had sushi (vegetarian) for dinner then we had a Q & A session, Table Topics For Couples just he and I (we also like to make up our own questions). It was a fun evening.

Anyhow, I live somewhat out in the country and internet connection is so slow. It's difficult to blog when you spend most of your time waiting for a single image to upload :( We are still trying to manage our provider. Also I'm still trying to get used to my photo editing software (happy it works).

I still have last weeks valentine's cards I want to share with you. I might just end up posting them without editing. So keep an eye out for those.

Ok. Now that that's out out of the way here's a bit about this card.

First of all this little fun thing measures 3" x 2"1/2. Great size to stick inside your little ones lunch boxes or hubbies briefcase :) I also love how well the new Hero Arts sentiment stamps go with it (I made 4 different designs). They are so big and bold that you can use them as the focal point or even as an embellishment.

I adhered a straight panel of pattern paper and then cut out a way piece using the same pattern to create some depth. Placing one heart behind that wave and the other popped over gives this tiny design some pizzaz. Not to mention the scalloped top and faux stitches ;)

Thanks for coming by. Hope you have a great day!!

Hugs
Jessica :)

Butterfly Greetings

2011-02-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hello.

It's hard to believe that we are approaching mid February. It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating New Years!! I tell you now a days we can no longer plan by the weeks but by the months :) All that means is we have to make the best of every minute granted us.

Anyhow, my creation for today is not exactly what I intended. But after having my Mother in Law show up by surprise and not having a functioning photo software I thought this would have to do for now. Hopefully I can post some valentine's day cards later today.

Back to this card... I love the new sentiments from Hero Arts. The best thing is they are so readily available in most scrapbooking stores not to mention they add such lovely finishing touch to almost any project :)

I'm off to finish some valentine's with my little girl...we're stuffing paper made purses. I can't wait to show you.

Take care,
Jessica

PTI's 2010 Favorite Project

2011-02-05T15:30:00.000-08:00

**Just in case you were wondering where I've been all this time you can check this post here**

Papertrey Ink began their anniversary festivities!! The first ~~teaser~~ prize package is going to a random winner. The question:

What was your favorite PTI project (created by you) last year?

Honestly even though I've been gone for the longest my favorite would have to be one I created with Quilter's Sampler earlier this past year.

I created this as a wedding card for some very patriotic friends. I thought what more can symbolize all american that a quilt with the american flag colors. Needless to say they loved it :)

Join in the fun and good luck,

Jessica

This Is The Day

2011-02-04T08:58:00.000-08:00

**Just in case you were wondering where I've been all this time you can check this post here**

Happy Friday!!

It's a bright, fresh and sunny morning here in my California town. Birds are chirping, squirrels chase each other and I see the neighbors cat a bit random yet none the less nice :)

The house is tidy and the smell of fresh bread infuses every corner of it. Life is good!!

With a day like this it's tempting to feel completely satisfied but without love it would only be like a vapor a mist that vanishes with the noon day sun.

Todays card is the celebration of love. The marking of milestones in individuals lives joined together in well, love. Though we know words cannot truly define such emotions, such principle. I thought it very appropriate for the season especially since I have a couple of friends celebrating anniversaries this month.

I'm off to check on that bread of mine... my first attempt at gluten free :) If notice the word "IF" it turns out I'll share it with you.

Have a lovely and safe weekend,

Jessica

Love Is In The Air

2011-02-03T07:51:00.000-08:00

**Just in case you were wondering where I've been all this time you can check yesterdays post here**

With Valentine's Day fast approaching all windows in down town are decked with hues of pink, red and fuchsias. Not to mention the symbol of love itself. Don't you just {heart} valentines?!

Candies of all sorts also are filling up the store isle rather quickly. I'm hoping for some "vintage" lollipops. I don't know if any of you remember the charm pops not the ones with the gum but the flat ones with the heart shape. I hope to find them and pair them up with tiny cards. I think it will be cute. I'll be sure to post it here :)

Cupids ah cupids, every time I see them it makes me think of that old song "Cupid draw back your bow and let your arrow go straight to my lovers heart for me..." by Sam Cooke one of my favorites for the season.

Another valentine's icon of course is chocolate. I wonder why? I mean this is a year round treat and somehow it still gets the number one vote during this time. Am I complaining? Absolutely not. I love chocolate only if it's 73% and up. The darker the better :)

So with all that inspiration around us. I think I'm ready to go get some ink on paper and work on my valentine's. Here's one simple card I created using Bannerific. Just to give you an idea of what's to come. I'll be posting projects through out the rest of this and the beginning of next week :)

Some sets I'll be using:

Bannerific by Lawn Fawn

Key to My Heart by Practicing Creativity

Little Lady by Papertrey Ink

That was just to name a few. I'm off to create pretties. Have an awesome day and if your anywhere near the storm and crazy weather be safe and stay cozy.

Thanks for stopping by!!! See you soon.

Hearts and kisses,

Jessica

I'm Back!!!!

2011-02-02T00:21:00.000-08:00

Well hello there!!

It's been 7 months since my fingers have navigated these technology waters. I can't believe time has gone by that quickly {sigh}. But no matter.., let me tell you it is good to be back!

I have been through some rough waters in the last few months. My health declined, my marriage nearly crumbled, and my relationships with family and friends were nearly none existent. I felt defeated, guilty, bitter, helpless and hopeless. Yet through it all I held on strongly to the Almighty (truly HE held me).

If there was ever a time to recapture the wonder in my life, then that time was definitely this past summer.

Ever since I was a teenager I struggled with depression. This condition runs in my family and was somewhat under control. I say somewhat because during that same time I was introduced to the Christian faith and whenever I struggled with any feelings of despondency I would immediately brush it off as if it were a sin. Time went on and I didn't receive any treatment. Fast forward a few years I get married and my depression begins to immerse. My husband suggests that I get treatment and I shoo him off and am quite offended at the thought of him suggesting that I have no control over my emotions. So I continue this roller coaster ride. Six years later I am nearly drained. My mood swings got so intense that I began to fear for my very life. I experienced hallucinations and voices. I did the most ridicules, irrational things and yet through it all I found myself completely in denial of my condition.

It was embarrassing....

After 2 months of confusion I decided that for the well being of my husband and myself we needed to separate. My intention was divorce I have a 4 year old who was really a victim in all this chaos... that was the hardest part (At that time I decided to leave Lawn Fawn as well. I should mention here that Kelly was so supportive through the entire process. I love that girl even though I have yet to meet her in person :)

I was away in Michigan in a lonely apartment close to my mom. There in the solitude of those four empty walls something began to change. I accepted the fact that I was in desperate need of help. Though ashamed I knew I needed to take action not for me but for my little girl... and there true healing began.

Depression is a disease that needs medical assistance... never neglect it!

Three months later my husband and I reconcile and we decide to seek treatment together. Everything at this point is at a halt. This man, my husband dropped absolutely everything to go with me through this entire process. Yes, I love this man!!! Because of this finances were tight... we were leaning on the Arm of faith. We go from Michigan to San Diego to seek medical help. There an awesome doctor greets us and the treatment begins. Two weeks into it he suggests me going on a gluten free diet. I kid you not 36 hrs. later I felt great and I begin journaling my food intake. Little did I know that my bi polar disorder was due to gluten sensitivity. It's been 6 months since that visit and I can truly say that I have been healed!! God is Awesome!!

Now Recapturing Wonders is more than my blog's name it's my life's motto. It's finding beauty in all the simple things that I have here; right next to me every day.

It's good to be back with a clean page sort of speak. I've missed you all and thanks those of you who sent email of encouragement and prayers. They meant the world to me. Can't wait to see what you all have been up to :)

The new blog look is only temporary (we'll see how it goes). I just thought it was fitting to change everything as a symbol of a new start.

Oh before I forget I found that pink little flower peaking out my window yesterday. I can't believe they are already blooming :) I know it's cold in other places even snow storm but rest assured that even though the winter chill may still be holding strong the warmth that comes from family and friends will always keep you warm :)

Blessings,

Jessica

Lawn Fawn Sneak Peak- Judy's Blooms

2010-07-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hi, welcome back!! Isn't Swimsuit Season a fun set? Wait to you see all the images :) Now todays set is another must have in any stampers collection especially if you love blooms. Judy's Blooms is a set you can use in so many fun ways. When I make cards I love dimension and texture so I obviously took that route and I just love the outcome.

Because of my traveling my crafting supplies are very minimal (everything is in storage). I kept a few Lawn Fawn stamp sets, neutral color inks and paper, scissors, glue and color pencils. I'm impressed at how much one can create with such little supplies.

To create this sweet and simple card I stamped the flowers onto white cardstock and colored them in using color pencils. Then I cut them out to create a 3D effect. The sentiment is created from Harold's ABC's (one of my favorite letter stamp sets ever). I impressed the letters using versa mark then I traced over them using the magical white gel pen. The faux stitching is also done with the white gel pen. The leaves I drew, colored and cut.

Pretty simple, isn't it? Hope you were inspired to create a little something. Even if you're tempted not to pull out you crafting materials with fear you are going to make a massive mess remember you can create pretty little things using the minimal of materials. Which means your card will be simple and quick and the mess, what mess? You'll still have plenty of time to enjoy the day at the beach, lake, river or at the park :)

**Don't forget to go check out the rest of the Design Team**

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: Basic white, charcoal

Stamps: Judy's Blooms, Harold's ABC's

Ink: Versamark watermark, versa color brown

Other: white gel pen, color pencils, stickles

Lawn Fawn-Sneak Peak

2010-07-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

Boy, I haven't been around for a while but I can't stay away when it comes to Lawn Fawn goodness. This month the Lawn Fawn team has done it again. These sets are so fun and full of whimsy like only Kelly and her crew can create :)

Swimsuit Season is a set that can be used for scrapbooking as well as cards. Just by looking at the images it makes me want to get in my bathing suit and jump in the ocean (if it wasn't so cold).

Here's my card...

I love the splash stamp and how about that bikini- any pattern you can imagine in any shade... what a dream {stamp}.

To create it I used 3 different Lawn Fawn stamp sets. Critters in the Sea, Just My Type, Too and Swimsuit Season. I colored the bikini using color pencils and I added stickles. I colored in the "splash" and the border using a white gel pen.

That's it for now. Don't forget to visit the rest of the Design Team over at Lawn Fawn blog for a chance to win your very own set.

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: PTI's craft

Stamps: Swimsuit Season

Ink: Versa color black

Other: color pencil, white gel pen, stickles, stickers

Where to begin...

2010-07-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

Hello!!

This last month has been one of the most interesting in my entire life. I have been struggling with some major issues (I'll maybe share some other time). I've also been battling with a very interesting disease. One that took me by surprise. So I've been traveling searching for some answers and treatment. All this has brought me back to California - this time the San Diego area.

Through it all I must say that I have learned much about myself and for that I will be forever grateful. Living life like the Bible Abraham (not knowing where our next home will be) has also been challenging but at the same time so rewarding. First my daughter got to be with her grandma (my mom) which she really hadn't done before. The other thing is that my husband and I have been able to connect at a more personal, emotional level. We are just living by faith and loving it. We've been living from a suit case for 2 months or so and still have no clue where God will lead us.

All this has obviously left me with little or no time to create pretty things with my hands but that doesn't mean I have not been creating. The most beautiful thing one can create is the beauty of a pure heart. So I have laid down my scissors, paper, stamps and glue and have temporarily stopped creating my concepts and ideas and have allowed God to do some purging and some mending in my own life. I am allowing Him to re-create my heart. After all, He is the Masterful Creator.

Thanks for those of you who've inquired and sorry for not getting back to you or posting anything. I rather leave happy glimpses and encouraging thoughts here on my blog than to leave gloomy, sour news.

So be encouraged that life is good and while we're here we have an opportunity to make it grand :)

Stay tuned for Lawn Fawn sneak peaks. The sets this month are so appropriate for the season and are definitely worth taking a peak :)

Blessings,

Jessica

Hello & Winner

2010-06-11T12:38:00.000-07:00

I've been away from sunny California for a little over a week now. I'm enjoying the hot, humid weather (I'm an east coast girl) and of course my mom and siblings in Michigan :) Hope you've all been well. Sorry for having you wait all the way till Friday...

The winner of the Lawn Fawn stamp set is... #17

Daniela Hendea {PurpleD} said...

Critters in the Sea, definitely!

June 4, 2010 7:42 PM

Congrats Daniela!!

Contact me and I'll get Lawn Fawn to send you a stamp set of your choice :) Thanks all you who left a comment. It's nice to see what you all are into. I'll be back soon with some more creations, hopefully. Traveling has gotten pretty tight and couldn't bring my craft tote. So it's slowly making it's way east.

Till then enjoy the beginning of summer :)

Blessings,

Jessica

Lawn Fawn Reveal and a giveaway!!

2010-06-03T06:22:00.000-07:00

Well today is the official Lawn Fawn reveal. Aren't these sets the cutest? I love everyone of the them. My Favorite however is Critters in the Sea. Today I have a card featuring this set again plus Harold's ABCs You can see the card I created for the sneak peak here.

Now the card...

I am in love with this little turtle. I'm afraid you'll be seeing more of it here on my blog ;)

Create It

1. Cut and score an A2 card. Stamp background. Create faux stitching, distress edges lightly and set aside.

2. Cut a strip of cardstock and adhere to your base card. To fasten the twine punch only part of the tiny circle to the edge of the card.

3. Create scalloped rectangle with the nestabilities die. Stamp turtle image color in and cut out.

4. Assemble your rectangle frame and stamp the water bubbles. Using foam tape adhere in the center. Use some more foam tape to adhere the turtle. Finish off by adding sentiment.

Well there you have it. Simple, bright and cheerful :) Thanks for stopping by and hope you enjoyed this release as much as I did.

Now for a giveaway!!

Why because I've enjoyed these sets so much, because I appreciate your time here on my blog, because summer is around the corner and that makes me super happy and because it's been a while ;) To enter leave me a comment telling me which of this months release is your favorite and why. The winner will be announced here on Wednesday. Good Luck!

Have a great day!!

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: PTI's aqua mist, kraft, bazzill moss

Stamps: Lawn Fawn Critters in the Sea, Harold's ABCs

Ink: PTI's Hawaiian shores, palette noir

Other: bakers twine, markers, tracing wheel, foam adhesive

Lawn Fawn: Bake Me A Cake

2010-06-01T22:10:00.000-07:00

Hi and welcome back!! Today Lawn Fawn is sharing the last sneak peak of this months release and let me tell you it is a fun one. Bake Me A Cake is probably one of the most versatile cake stamp sets I've seen. The possibilities are truly endless. You can stamp and color, you can create single layer cakes. Full on wedding cakes or like I did with my card you can simply stamp the cake image onto pp and create funky cake designs.

This card doesn't need much description. Like I mentioned earlier I stamped the cake images onto pp and cut them out. The cake platform I colored with my basic markers. To add detail I stamped the candles and added stickles to the flames. I finished it off with bakers twin.

Very simple and fun :) Make sure you go check out the rest of the Design Team and leave Kelly a comment over at Lawn Fawn blog for a chance to win Bake Me A Cake.

Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: basic white, farmers market pp

Stamps: Lawn Fawn Bake Me A Cake

Ink: Palette burnt umber

Other: baker twine, stickles, marker, foam adhesive

Lawn Fawn: Harold's ABCs

2010-05-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

Hi!! Hope you had a great weekend!! Today I have another Lawn Fawn sneak peak. This time all eyes are on text. It's the Harold's ABCs. This set is so versatile and very easy to use, seriously. I love the font it's clean with enough whimsy to spark up any card and yet classy for more sophisticated designs. How's that for a description? :)

For my card I chose Petite Florals to create a background and then used Harold's ABCs making the sentiment the focal point. The border around the sentiment is a lace tape I found at a local Japanese store (Daiso). Needless to say I'm in love with it.

Tip: When using acrylic alphabet stamp sets I always find it useful to draw a pencil line (lightly) on my cardstock even if your using a grid block. That way you can measure and know exactly where you want your text.

Remember to go check out the rest of the Design Team and leave a comment over at the Lawn Fawn blog for a chance to win your very own Harold's ABCs.

Thanks for coming by.

Blessings

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: PTI's kraft & melon berry

Stamps: Lawn Fawn's Petite florals, Harold's ABCs

Ink: Palette burnt umber, versa mark

Other: paper lace, foam adhesive

Lawn Fawn: Critters in the Sea

2010-05-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I'm back and this time I'm showcasing Lawn Fawn sneak peaks (my favorite time of the month). First up Critters in the Sea. If you liked Critter's in the 'burbs then you definitely don't want to miss this one. Each image is designed in such a cute, kiddish way and it gives you the opportunity to color them in or use them just the way they are.

Now for my card...

Create It:

1. Cut and score and 4" x 6" card. Using score-pal emboss border. Distress lightly. Set aside.

2. Stamp little whale onto grey cardstock. Add depth by using versamark (as distressing ink).

3. Stamp fishes and add liquid embossing. Allow time to dry and cut out.

4. Stamp sentiment and water bubbles and using your eyelet setter punch out the three little holes (bubbles). Adhere whale and fishes and finish off by adding bakers twine :)

There you have a simple, gender friendly card. Don't forget to check out the rest of the Lawn Fawn Design Team their creations are simply super!!! And while you're there leave Kelly a comment for a chance to win your very own Critters in the Sea.

Thanks for coming by and don't forget to come by tomorrow for more Lawn Fawn goodness.

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: Martha Stewart's blue

Stamps: Critter in the Sea

Ink: PTI's palette smokey grey, Palette noir, versa mark

Other: scor-pal, bakers twine, eyelet setter, liquid embossing

Postman Fever!!

2010-05-28T06:43:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like receiving a little something on the mail, right? It just puts a smile on my face. Especially when all we get are none personal parcel (bills, adds and more bills). Well my little girl is catching up to the concept of receiving mail and every time we go pick it up she inquires, is there something for me? I feel bad telling her no or giving her coupons in envelopes (pretending they're mail for her). So I decided to create this card and mail it with some goodies just for her. I know she's going to love it :)

The colors were inspired by her. She is bubbly, cheery and loves bright colors. For the "o" in love I punched out a 1" circle and then punched out a heart and wrote the letter "u". The strip with the name I wrote with a white gel pen and drew the dots as well.

Well that's all I have for now and remember to keep checking in because we have Lawn Fawn sneak peaks coming soon. You are so going to love these sets ;)

Have a great weekend!!

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: JoAnn's lime green,

Stamps: PTI's Delightful Dahlias (leaf)

Ink: Adirondack lettuce

Other: white gel pen, dark brown, prima flowers, brads, MM chipboard letters, EK Success circle punch and heart

Embellish Magazine Color Challenge

2010-05-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

Hey there!!! It's been a long time since I've posted. I've been busy packing and getting ready to hit the road. I've missed visiting your creative blogs. Now that I'm almost finished I can get a bit crafty again :)

Speaking of which when I saw Embellish Magazine's color challenge I knew I had to create something. The colors are so inviting and the images they provided make it all the better.

Wouldn't you agree?!?

Now for my take on the challenge. When I distressed the edges with the black it gave my card sort of gloomy look. I wasn't too thrilled with it at first but I did, in a weird way, liked it. So instead of creating a wedding themed or just because card I made a "feel better" one. Which seemed to go well with the overall distribution of color :)

The green butterfly seemed like the perfect element for a get well card. Green besides luck is associated with hope :)

Create It

1. Cut and score an A2 card. Distress and create faux stitching. Set aside.

2. Stamp a background on a paper doily (I used woodgrain). Stamp sentiment and distress edges. Adhere to card.

3. Stamp butterfly onto green cardstock and cut out. Adhere onto doily.

4. Finish off by adding pearls.

There ya have it. Hope you give this challenge a try. Stay tuned for more creations and Lawn Fawn sneak peaks :)

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: Martha Stewart's kraft, bazzill green moss

Stamps: Hero Arts clings, woodgrain impression obsession

Ink: Palette noir, liquid chalk cream

Other: tracing wheel, recollections pearls, doily

Embellish Magazine Color Challenge

2010-05-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

Hi!! It's time for another Embellish Color challenge. This time we are invited to create a card/ project using the colors in this lovely image plus dimension (foam adhesive). The moment I saw the colors I new I wanted to create a masculine card. Especially with one of the next grand celebrations being father's day :)

Now for my little card...

My creation is simple and would work great not only for dad's but for a boys birthday. I created a different kind of trim hoping to create a masculine detail. I cut out a strip of cardstock and with a standard size hole punch I made created the fun border. I didn't want to leave the little holes empty so I pierced them for added detail. To balance the colors in the card I cut out a green and terra cotta extra fine strip of cardstock. The little boat was hand drawn.

Over all I am pleased with the design. The background as you can see is not the tidiest ;) Not because it's hard to stamp but because I was lazy and didn't remove the stains from my acrylic block, that impaired my vision and didn't allow me to align the images accordingly. Lesson learned? You bet :)

Thanks for coming by. Sorry for disappearing on you. I'm in the process of moving again. So I won't be here as often. But do know that I'm am still working on some fun projects :)

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: PTI's dark chocolate, terra cotta tile, aqua mist, Lime green from scrap stash

Stamps: PTI's Woodgrain, Martha Stewart's background, G Studio (sentiment)

Ink: Palette burnt umber, PTI's hawaiian shores

Other: hole punch, tracing wheel, brads, piercing tool, foam adhesive, pen, to write "father's"

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Day!!! How's your weekend been so far? Mine has been lovely... weekends are always great when the weather calls for flip flops, tees and pretty skits :)

My post will be short... I wanted to show you some (2) of the Mother's Day cards I created. I would've had more but had to mail them out :(

My first card uses the ever so trendy doily. I simply used a paper one and pierced it around. Then stamped the image and sentiment.

Here's a close up. I wanted you to see the shimmer on the sprig. It looks so pretty and delicate irl.

And on this image you see a close up of the embellie I used. I created this one using my EK Success butterfly punch. I punched out a butterfly in shimmer vellum and in raspberry faux suede. Then I bent a piece of wire and assembled them with a glue dot :) You can make them any size and color. they look so pretty.

The other card I wanted to share with you mainly uses You're Dandy. I made the base card a long time ago and wasn't certain where I wanted to go with it. So I set it aside. Does that ever happen to you? I came back to it on Friday and ended up making a mother's day card. I love it.

There you have two super simple designs that can be recreated in no time. Hope you enjoy the rest of the day.

Happy Mother's Day!!

Blessing's

Jessica

Bulletin Board

2010-05-06T06:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday!!! I'm having issues with lighting so the mother's day cards will have to wait just a bit longer {sorry}.

In the mean time I thought I'd share just one more card using Lawn Fawn's Just My Type, Too. Having images like tacks and paper clips calls for a cork board. So I created one. The card if you take a look at some of the details is very simple and easy to re-create. So by changing sentiments around you can custom make this card to suit any occasions, really i.e. Grad, Mother's Day, Party, Teen's Birthday, Teacher and so on.

Sweet and simple, huh!! Hope you enjoyed. I'm off for the day got tons to catch up with and I seem to already be chasing the time making sure it doesn't fly away :)

Chat at'cha later.

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: The Paper Company weaved ivory, PTI's berry sorbet

Stamps: Lawn Fawn Just My Type, Too, Just My Type

Ink: Adirondack denim, PTI's berry sorbet, Palette burnt umber

Other: cork sheet, silver pen, tutti-fruity stickles, liquid embossing

Today's the Day!!

2010-05-04T20:02:00.000-07:00

Hello.

We've reached the end of another awesome sneak-a-peak week over at Lawn Fawn blog. But you know what that means, right? It means that Just My Type, Just My Type Too & Partly Cloudy are available at the Lawn Fawn store. So make your way there and take a peak at the sets in there entirety. They are so fun. You won't be disappointed :)

The card I created today uses three of my favorite Lawn Fawn sets. Partly Cloudy, Just My Type and Petite Florals. I combined them with that super chic and fun bike from Woodhaven.

Close up shot...

To give the clouds a fuzzy texture I used flocking powder in off white. I just bought 16 different color at Michael's for $4 ($1 bin goodies). I drew rays on the sun using my yellow stickles.

Overall I'm in love with this card. Perfect for any occasion.

Well, that's all for now. I'll be back tomorrow with some mother's day cards :)

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: Basic white

Stamps: Lawn Fawn Partly Cloudy, Just My Type (sentiment), Petite Florals

Ink: Color Box chalk yellow ochre, aqua, Versa Color celadon, khaki, bamboo, old rose, yellow, narcissus

Others: bicycle clear sticker by Colorbok

Lawn Fawn: Partly Cloudy Sneak

2010-05-03T20:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday!!! Today the Lawn Fawn Design Team are showing the last sneak peak for this months release and can I add it's one of my personal favorite sets, Partly Cloudy. I chose to use the clouds, sun and sentiment from this one.

Onto some detail shall we... here's a close up shot of the sun rays. To create that glossy effect I used ultra thick clear embossing powder. I've had it for a few years and thought it'd be fun to use with the rays. It's so bubbly looking :)

To create the felt clouds I stamped the cloud onto a piece of scrap and cut out. Then used it as a template. I traced it on my felt and cut out. It's hard to see but the specks on the card around the clouds is actually glitter. It so pretty and shimmery IRL.

To add some pizzaz I ruffled up some of my October Afternoon pp and covered the trim with a felt strip. And to give my little card a sweet finishing touch I added two orange brads. In my opinion it brings balance to the design :)

So there you have it!! Cute trendy and simple-couldn't ask for more ;) Hope you've been inspired. Don't forget to go check out the rest of the Design Team and while you're there leave Kelly a comment for a chance to win this lovely set :)

Be sure to stop by Lawn Fawn tomorrow (Wednesday) at midnight to take a look at the sets in there entirety.

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: Basic aqua, October Afternoon pp

Stamps: Lawn Fawn Partly Cloudy

Ink: versamark

Other: ultra thick clear embossing powder, felt, brads, white embossing powder

Just My Type Too!

2010-05-02T21:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome back!! Hope you're ready for another sneak-a-peak. Because if you liked Just My Type then Just My Type Too is a must. There's so much text in fact it's all text (sentiments) which gives you endless possibilities. Making it a super versatile gender friendly set. Isn't that what we all like? :)

Now for my card. I decided to go with the typewriter (again) since most of the sentiments are created to fit on the tiny sheet. I just love the whimsy-vintage look, don't you?

Before giving you the details I thought I'd share a close up shot.

Create It

1. Cut and score an A2 card. Set aside.

2. Cut a 2 1/2 x 31/2 (or so) card to layer. Distress. Stamp with versa mark a border for the bottom of your layer sheet (if that makes sense). Distress and adhere to base card.

3. Stamp typewriter on kraft and cut out. Stamp typewriter again on different tone of paper and cut out "page". Distress all around. Adhere using dimensional tape (foam).

4. Finish off by stamping hearts which is an image from Just My Type Too and adding liquid gloss to the "keys".

Thanks for coming by. Hope you were inspired and just as excited as I am for this new Lawn Fawn set. And don't forget to check out the rest of the DT they have some amazing creations :)

Ashley Cannon Newell

Latisha Yoast

Lynnette Kauffman

Mariana Grigsby

Sarah Martina Parker

Tiffany Johnson

Have a lovely day.

Blessings,

Jessica

Materials:

Cardstock: Bazzill boysenberry, kraft and cream

Stamps: Lawn Fawn Just My Type & Just My Type Too

Ink: Versacolor boysenberry, Palette burnt umber, versamark

Other: liquid embossing (detail on typewriter keys & hearts)