Way to Go Wednesday

I had better hurry with this post or Way to Go Wednesday is going into the wee hours of Thursday morning. So without further ado:

First, I would like to introduce the newest member to the Artful Inkables DT, the creative and talented Pam Miller! I am so excited to get to "meet" Pam and work with her on the AI DT. Not only is she a sistah stamper, she is, also, a fellow nurse- God love her!!!! If you would like to see some beautiful creations, be sure to stop at Pam's blog and while you're there, I'm sure she would love a "atagirl" comment!

Second, it was quite a week for Kim Teasdale. Not only was she selected for the AI DT, she, also, received an invitation for the Clear Dollar Stamps DT! What can we say Kim? When your hot, your hot! For some viewing pleasure, be sure to check out Kim's wonderful creations at her blog!

And what about our own fearless leader, Lindsey Botkin, from Jacksonbelle Embellishments. TWO of Lindsey's fa-bu-lous cards were published in August's Crafts 'n Things and another one is on their website. You will need to register to see this one but it is well worth it!

Before I get to today's card, I would like to send out a Happy Anniversary to my dear blogging friend, Jill Dunn and her husband Dave! They have been married for 11 years today! Here's wishing your a wonderful anniversary, Jill & Dave!

Also, a quick note about a blog candy opp: Starving Artist has a most generous candy opportunity on their blog. Take a minute to leave a comment and you will be on your way to chance at 1 super cute image stamp set and 2 hilarious sentiment sets to go with it (I'm still chuckling over some of them)!

So that takes care of the "housekeeping" aspect of today's post now onto the card! Monday I received my first order from Artful Inkables. The day that I found out about their DT call, I rushed over to their web store to have a look and was thrilled at what I saw! Not only are their stamps deeply etched, red rubber, they are already cut and adhered to mounting cushion. All the images are hand drawn and there is such a nice variety of styles (including my favorite - nature inspired whimsy.) You can find something for everyone! I knew right away, that AI either would have a devoted DT member OR a faithful customer in me!

The first set I purchased was this cute little Enchanted Fairies. I love these sweet little images and since my DD loves all things fairy, this was a perfect choice for me. My layout is for today's Sketch Challenge at SCS. I haven't "played" with a SCS challenge is a little while so I was determined to do so today. The background is a 5 1/2" x 5 1/2" square of Regal Rose. All paper pieces except the focal image were distressed with Ranger Tim Holtz Distress Ink- Antique Linen. I love to use Antique Linen when I want a very subtle distressing. The little PP squares are BG Sugared and measure 1 1/2" x 1 1/2." They are mounted on Chocolate Chip CS. My cute little fairy is stamped on Neenah Classic White with Tuxedo Black Memento ink and colored in with Copic Markers. The sparkle of her wings was painted on with Star Dust Stickles. The little flower blossoms were made with 2 different Martha Steward hydrangea punches, then blinged with a Sakura Stardust pen and distressed with the Antique Linen ink. The little flower centers are Lime Green Stickles and the leaves are actually petals cut from the largest hydrangea blossom. Voila- today's sketch challenge Artful Inkables style!

Be sure to check out the Ways To Use It Challenge on SCS tomorrow! Lindsey Botkin is the guest hostess and she has a challenge that most of you will love! It's ALWAYs A Stampin' Good Time! Take care!

Enchanted Fairy card recipe:

Stamps: Artful Inkables- Enchanted Fairies

Paper: Regal Rose, Chocolate Chip,More Mustard, Barely Banana, Neenah Classic White CS, BG- Sugared

Ink: Momento Tuxedo Black, Ranger Distress- Antique Linen

Accessories: Copic markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, Stickles, May Arts ribbon, American Craft brads, Martha Steward punches, Sakura Stardust Glitter pen

Way to Go Wednesday

I'm posting a bit late on my Wednesday post. DD #1 is visiting with her grandmother this week, so I've been able to give DD #2 my total attention and she is lovin' it!!! Today she chose to go to books-a-million (purchased a Diego book and a dinosaur egg- it should hatch by tomorrow after being submerged in h20 all night) and went to Marble-Slab for an ice cream. After we returned home she wanted to "snuggle on the couch and watch School House Rock dvd.) Well, needless to say we BOTH fell asleep! So I'm just stopping by for a quick post to give a shout out to some very deserving bloggers!

First, sending a big congratulations to Nancy Grant of Inkcicles. Not only is Nancy a super talented stamper, she has a well-rounded blog that shares many day-t0-day aspects of living in ALASKA! On top of this, she is just super sweet person! I am so excited for Nancy for being chosen as a Guest Designer for Clear Dollar Stamps this coming August! Be sure to treat yourself by checking out her beautiful designs!

Next, things are still rockin' for DT members over at Jacksonbelle Embellishments! This week I am so happy to announce the Elezebeth Neumann was called my Kim (the KIM, herself) from MFT and asked to be a part of a special assignment design team. Well, of course, she said "YES"- her blog entry for this event is super cute so be sure to give it a look see! I can't wait to see what "special assignments" those gals have to share with us!!!

Last, but certainly not least, a hearty "way-to-go" for Allison of Stampin' When I Can for being recognized by "blogs of note" from Blogger today. Not only does she make awesome creations, she certainly has a noteworthy blog and is definitely the "go to gal" for blogging information in the paper crafting world! Can't tell you how much help her blog has given me over the past year! Much appreciation and cheers coming your way, Allison!

Well, hubby just got home from work and brought supper- for some reason the "chef" didn't show up today! It's ALWAYs A Stampin' Good Time! Take care!

Way to Go Wednesday

I really was in need of some therapeutic stamping today- you know the kind that you do for absolutely no reason except to create something fun. I find A Muse images and supplies perfect for this kind of blissful stamping! So before I start with the Wednesday "pats on the backs, " I'm just going to give a quick rundown on one of the 2 cards I made today. All products made by A Muse unless otherwise stated. This little 4 1/4 x 4 1/4 card started by stamping the Hammock image onto Curious Iridescent Crycogen White CS with Versafine Ink in Black Onyx. I heat set the ink before coloring the image with Copic markers. I added detail to the little coconuts with a Zig Painty white paint pen, then added Dazzling Diamonds to the "sand" with a Quickie Glue pen. I die cut and embossed the image with my Cuttlebug and oval Nestabilities. The mat for the image was cut with a scalloped oval Nestabilities. One scalloped oval was cut from a Blue Kitchen 4-bar note card and another from a Brown one. The two ovals were cut in half then recombined to make a complete mat. The seem was hidden with a piece of French Roast stitched ribbon and Lime Peel stitched ribbon and French Roast sheer ribbon were added to embellish the knot. This was all attached to a Cabana Blue Astrix note card, the sentiment added in Black Onyx ink and a American Crafts brown brad attached with a glue dot to the corner. I cut the prongs off the brad so they would not show through to the inside of the card. A simple, fun card!

So who has done something to enjoy recognition this week? Well, first sistah JBE DT members, Amber and Maren were both selected to be members of the Unity DT. They both truly ROCKED it with the Unity Stamp projects they had been displaying on their blogs. I'm really excited to see what these talented gals do with this awesome new line of stamps!

Maren is really rockin' this week with an announcement of another card being accepted for publication! This time be sure to look for her card in the October Scrapbook Trends.

It has been a very happy week for JBE DT members! Elizebeth received the news that she has been invited to be on the DT for Stampavie and their darling Rachelle Anne Miller images. Since these stamps originate in BK this was an international DT call! Way to go, Elizebeth!

Last, but certainly not least, I won't to give a hug "at-a-girl" to my friend Meg. Since January Meg has committed to a healthier lifestyle. While weight-loss has not been her primary focus, she had set a goal to meet before going to visit her family this summer. Well, 2 weeks ago, Meg went on vacation to visit her family and had met her weight loss goal! There is certainly no need to talk numbers (goodness knows I wouldn't want to share mine- lol) but lets just say her dedication has been significantly rewarded! Way to go, Meg! I'm so very proud of you!

Again, I do my best to keep track of items for my Wednesday post throughout the week but cannot possibly keep up with all the wonderful happening in the week. I NEVER intentionally not show someone the love! It's ALWAYs A Stampin' Good Time! Take care!

Way to Go Wednesday

Sorry, I'm a bit late on this post. I am continuing my "purge and reorganization" on the house (primarily on my daughters' rooms and new playroom) and was on a roll today! This will be a quick post BUT that doesn't mean that these 2 ladies deserve any less recognition.

First is Maren Benedict, fellow DT member for Jacksonbelle Embellishments. You may remember that I mentioned Maren in last weeks Way to Go feature. She had a submission chosen for publication in the October edition of Cards. Well, let me tell you, that gal is on FIRE! If you are an dedicated challenge follower on SCS, then you already know that Maren was chosen this past Sunday to be the FEATURED STAMPER!!! Do yourself a great pleasure and be sure to check out Maren's SCS gallery! For extra fun, you might even try out the challenge.

Second, I would like to send a big At-a-Girl to my dear BFF, Chris Twing! It wasn't until our up-line and myself e-mailed her our Congratulations that Chris even realized that she had a card in the SU Stamper's Showcase this past Monday! Her card is not on her web-site so I cannot share it with you but check out her website, it you would like to see some beautiful SU creations! Chris is in the process of trading in her website for a blog. The website does not allow for comments and Chris is looking for a more fun, interactive way to enjoy the paper crafting world. It was actually Chris that got me to start my blog in the first place!

So if you would, please join me in giving both of these talented gals a great big pat on the back! It's ALWAYs A Stampin' Good Time! Take care!

Wahoo! I just noticed that I have passed my 15,000 blog hit! That and a recent blog-aversary are definitely reasons to celebrate here at A Stampin' Good Time! Peak back on Thursday to see what I have in store!!!!!

Way to Go Wednesday

In my ever striving attempt to organize my life, I have decided to add some weekly features. So far you may have noticed I have Jacksonbelle Tuesdays when I post my challenge card for the JBE Design Team. Today I decided to share some back patting for family and friends (both blogging and local) on accomplishments they have achieved over the week. Now if you note, I stated that I was "striving" to organize my life. I certainly have not even come close to meeting my goal, so if by some chance my scattered brain forgets to show someone the love, please do not take it personal! Just chalk it up to the fact Rachel has probably covered the living room with 10lbs of flour (again), my Girl Scout troop has a big event coming up, Mary Elizabeth just can't "get" something we are learning in homeschool and one of the gerbils has escaped!

This week has been a most awesome week for Good News:

My blogging friend Cheryl of Engineered Expressions returned from a family vacation in Jamaica to find out she had been invited to join The Paper Elements Design team AND found out that after submitting 6 of her scrapbooking layouts for publication to Scrapbooking.com magazine, they had accepted ALL 6 which will appear in their July publication! Please stop buy Cheryl's blog and check out all of her fabulous scrapbook layouts (and photos of her adorable little girl.) You will be so pleased that you did! A sideline about Cheryl- she can whip out incredible 12 x 12 layouts in the time it takes me to make a card!

Fellow Design Team members from Jacksonbelle Embellishments have a fruitful couple of weeks. Both Erin and Maren received news that they would have projects published in the October edition of Cards and Amber was invited to be the newest member of the fabulous Verve Visual Design Team! A great big Wahoo to all of you ladies!

Finally, I would like to introduce everyone to one of my BFF, Dianne. While Dianne does scrapbooking and stamping, her true passion lies in painting. She is a certified One Stroke instructor and taught at our local Michael's until they did away with that program (boo)! Dianne does not consider herself creative. She says that One Stroke is simply a technique and that she only "copies" things. Well, excuse me Dianne, but I must say "PooPoo" to that 'cause in actuality Dianne completely ROCKS! During the frustrating time that Michael's was on the fence about the One Stroke program and all the instructors only had rumors to go on, Dianne was dealing with another problem. Her hands started becoming numb at times and at other times very painful. She went through many months of going from one type of specialist to another without any answers. Finally, on her second nerve conduction test, she was diagnosed with carpel tunnel syndrome, has since had surgery and is doing wonderfully! During this frustrating time, Dianne became involved in a forum for Jansen Art Studio and began taking an on-line class called Traditions. She was a bit slow to get started with her lessons but let me tell you, over the past couple of weeks she has really stuck to it and I am so very proud of her. Please give yourself a treat and check out her blog to see what this talented gal has done while "learning" a new painting style!

I wish for all those mentioned above to accept a warm hug and "pat-on-the-back" from me! It's ALWAYs A Stampin' Good Time! Take care!

ATC Sneak Peak

As if I needed something else I enjoy creating... I have recently been joining SWAPs for making these cute little ATC cards. It started very innocently. I simply wanted to see what they were all about. Next thing I know, I'm joining 2 ATC SWAPs a month until I reach the pinnacle of my addiction and am acting at hostess for a SWAP sponsored by the awesome Mrs. Lindsey of Jacksonbelle Embellishments. (The details for that SWAP can be found here.) The above card is my contribution to a SWAP hostessed by Tracy Durcan of Durcan Designs blog. This is the 2nd SWAP that I have completed with Tracy as hostess and I've signed up for a third- the quality of every card that I have received has been tops and Tracy does such a fa-bu-lous job organizing and keep everyone informed.
I fell in love with these 2 little Eat Cake Graphics stamps the minute I laid eyes on them at my lss. Yes, that is 2 different stamps. I simply made a mask for the little frog when I stamped the mushrooms under his dancing feet. The images are colored with Prismacolor Pencils and Gamsol and his beady little eyes each have a small drop of Crystal Effect to enhance their beadiness. I was flipping through my new BG 6 x 6 paper pads when I found this sweet little flower print in the Sultry collection. It was this paper that has spurned a new love for Garden Green and Pink Passion. These color just remind me of warm weather- hot pink impatiens, strawberries, watermelon- you get the picture! And they are my color inspiration for this card, along with a Chocolate Chip mat cut from a scalloped rectangle Nestabilities. I used a striped hot pink May Arts ribbon as an embellishment, then added a little Pink Passion circle tag with green stitched ribbon (source unk.) for my PTI sentiment. Finally, I felt that I needed one more embelli in the right upper corner for balance. I could not settle on just "the one"- call it AR or detail oriented. Well, I decide Froggie needed a buddy to share his bliss and went to my Quickutz dies to see what I had. This little dragonfly was just the ticket. I cut it first in Certainly Celery then painted it with Lime Green Stickles. While that dried, I cut the die again this time with vellum. I cut the wings out alone then added them to the CS dragonfly. Voila, a friend and embellishment, all in one! If you feel you would like to give these a try, please check out the link I suggested above. I will share the beautiful merry-go-round style ATC holder that I got for my birthday, as soon as I get it loaded with all the fabulous ATCs I have collected! It's ALWAYs A Stampin' Good Time! Take care!

Frog ATC recipe:

Stamps: Eat Cake Graphics, Sentiment- PTI

Paper: Garden Green, Pink Passion, Certainly Celery, Vellum, Stampers Select white CS, PP- Sultry by Basic Grey

Ink: Andirondack Pitch Black

Accessories: May Arts ribbon, Slot punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, Prismacolor Pencils, Quickutz, lime green Stickles, Crystal Effect, Stampin' Dimensionals