Can it really be Saturday already? It's one week until my brother's wedding so you can imagine how things are buzzing around here. In some ways I can hardly wait for the day to be over and in other ways I am lamenting about the process of getting to that day. My brother arrives "home" with his fiancee today. I haven't seen him in months. I was thinking that when they left this morning from their new "hometown" they left as two people on a mission to be united as a married couple. Then I was thinking that on their way home they will be united as Mr and Mrs. I know not every one is into the marriage thing. You don't have to be in this day and age, but for me, their is value in marriage and as I am 12 days from celebrating my 10th year of marriage with my husband I will look on fondly, at a moment that was a remarkable day and thank my blessings that we have made this journey together through the ups and downs of life and that now, I can be there to support a new couple, on their exciting journey too.
I can't tell you how excited I am that my brother has found the love of his life and that he is ready for this next step in life. While he is my little brother (he towers over me!!) he has taught me so much about life and I just tear up thinking about his happiness. It means everything to me! He has been through so much already in his 30+ years and to see this moment...this long awaited moment is a dream come true for me too.
Here are the long awaited peaks at my brother's wedding invites that my mum and I created a few months back. We made 1/2 with two leave sprigs and 1/2 with one leaf sprig.
INSTRUCTIONS
The invite
First we printed the invites on a 8.5x11 piece of vintage cream cardstock by Papertrey Ink
Next using VersaMark ink we stamped the leaves.
Then we embossed the leaves using a combination of lettuce and bottle Adirondack embossing powders.
Finally, on the back side of the invite, we scored two lines around the edge.
The envelope
We embossed the back of the envelope using an embossing template by cuttlebug.
We stamped the leaf in spring moss ink (PTI) and rolled the edges on new leaf ink (PTI)
SUPPLIES
Stamp Set(s): Turning a New Leaf by PTI
Cardstock: Vintage Cream by PTI
Ink: New Leaf by PTI, Spring Moss by PTI
Tools: Scor-Pal, Lettuce and Bottle Adirondack embossing powder by Ranger
Thanks for stopping by! Hope you are enjoying the weekend!!
I feel like I have been lost in a hole somewhere (actually that is almost truth!!) since it has been nearly a week since my last post. Summer days turn from 1 into 5 almost over night. We have been digging trenches for our flower bed sprinklers in addition to finishing off our veggie garden box so we can finally plant our veggies into the garden and take them out of the pots on our deck!!
I am so glad you joined me today for another month of the JFF excitement. Every month the J(ust)F(or)F(un) crew collaborate for an exciting challenge using the same patterned paper and stamped image. I picked Chair-ished (created for PTI by my wonderful friend Lisa Johnson) and Julie picked this retro patterned paper from the Vintage Blue collection by We R Memory Keepers.
INSTRUCTIONS
Create card base, layers and die cuts.
Stamp image and paper piece (using dimensionals in some areas).
Colour legs and outline using W-1 copic markers. Stamp sentiment.
Thread button and attach.
Adhere all layers.
SUPPLIES
Stamp Set(s): Chair-ished by PTI
Cardstock:Dark Chocolate by PTI, Vintage Cream by PTI
Patterned Paper:Blueberry Hill from the Vintage Blue collection by We R Memory Keepers
Accents: Button by PTI
Tools: Nestabilities by Spellbinders, Copic Markers
Make sure to check out the other card variations by my very talented jiffy friends...
Thanks for stopping by. I do have some creations that need photographing so I hope to be posting soon. On another note, I have an upcoming release and I have been working hard behind the scenes to get my cards done as my brother is getting married around the same time next month and things will be hectic. So while you aren't seeing much now just wait until August ;)
Hello friends! It's been a few days since my last post. The garden has been calling me. The weeds are taking over. My brother's wedding is coming up shortly and our house will be one of the locations during the 3 day event LOL. We want to make sure it looks as good as possible. No pressure right?
We also have the task of staining our back deck too but we can only do that when it is not hot. And while I have appreciated the heat it does make it difficult to plan tasks like deck staining. Or fence staining for the matter (I am almost done that one!). I do plan to get back to my "flashback" posts using older sets in the next few days so pop by to see a new use for wedding day and wise owl very soon!
Today's card is a card I created some time ago and never managed to post. I love the tranquil colours and delicate features.
SUPPLIES
Stamp set(s): sentiment from Daily Designs Sentiments, leaf image from Turning a New Leaf by PTI
Cardstock: Vintage Cream by PTI, Ocean Tides by PTI, True Black by PTI
Accents: Trinket Pin by Maya Road, Misc Polka Dot Ribbon
Tools: Copic Markers, Scallop punch by EK Success
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Create card base.
2. Stamp image and sentiment. Outline image with marker and draw fine lines.
3. Adhere paper strip and scalloped edge.
4. Attach ribbon and embellishment.
Have a super day. I'd love to hear from you! Do you have a FAVOURITE garden plant? We still have more to add now and next year.
I am honoured to be a part of the Fabulous Friend feature on the MFT Blog. I just love all the super cute images Kim and the illustrators put together for us each month in addition to the beautiful work from the design team--VERY inspiring! I met Kim at Winter CHA a few years back and can tell you she is as nice in person as she is online. So you can imagine how excited I am today to be sharing this card along with a card on the MFT blog and along with the answers to some interview questions. I hope you pop by to see it! :)
Here's your first peak...you can check it out in full HERE.
I have a collection of fantastic MFT images. I am especially drawn to the cutesy images. I just love anything that makes you smile when you first see it and both of these lines: Flopsey and Pure Innocence had that effect on me.
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Stamps: I'm Pullin' for You (digi) by MFT *Note: I purchased the full set before it went digi so I had the sentiment included in my set.
Ink: True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Dark Chocolate by PTI, Pure Poppy by PTI, Stamper's Select White by PTI
Patterned Paper: Cosmo Cricket
Accents: Ribbon by PTI, Flower by Prima, Pure Poppy Button by PTI
Tools: Copic Markers
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base, paper layers and strips.
Step 2. Create die cut and stamp image and sentiment.
Step 3. Colour image and paper piece pants.
Step 4. Attach ribbon, make a bow. Thread button and adhere to flower.
I have 5 cards featured in this issue in two categories that best define my style...can you guess? Yes...fun and cute and clean and graphic!
Today I am excited to share one of those cards with you...what style does it fit??
This year I am attending 3 weddings. I have already attended one and have two more to go including my brother's wedding!! So as a result I have been making LOTS of wedding cards recently. I also designed my brother's wedding invite and executed it without a hitch with my mum! I promised to show it a while back. I do plan to share it but wanted to blur out the info OR wait to share it until after the wedding which is less than a month away :)
Have a super day! I plan to enjoy this gorgeous summer weather today. I went for a 6KM run last night and was refreshed by the warmth of the season.
Note: Not entirely paper craft related! You can visit my most recent posts for the PTI release HERE.
It has been another amazing week! I have thoroughly enjoyed posting cards for the Birthday Bash Sentiments sneak peaks but also have been able to enjoy the perks of summer: warm weather, fresh fruit, swimming and hanging out with my kiddos and husband.
I just wanted to follow up on my previous post called "A Little About Life".Thank you all so very much for your comments, tips and questions. Your posts were so encouraging. I really battle with the idea of getting too personal in my blog posts because I don't want to stray too much from my main focus: paper crafting. But the truth is we are all human. We all have struggles and successes. And when I think about some of the great blogs I read out there like Becky Higgins, Nichole Heady, Ali Edward etc...what makes them so much fun is that you get a sense that these are real people with real issues and a real life. Of course that being said I know that is truthful of all bloggers but sometimes you don't see it.
I often get asked how I do it "all". How can I be a mum while I teach through an online school, homeschool my son, keep a tidy house, garden, stamp, design stamps, scrapbook, blog etc. The truth is there is some give and take, some balancing, some hits and misses, some stress...and that is just to name a few things. I have good days and bad days. Sometimes I don't get spend as much quality time with my kids as I would hope and other days I do. It's called LIFE. For one thing I am one of those people that has a hard time sitting down doing nothing. And for another thing, I just do what I have to do in order to get the job done. It can certainly be taxing at times. But the honest truth is I am just like you too.
So again, back to my previous post, I just want to thank you all again for your comments. I was especially appreciative of those surrounding sunscreen. I still have LOTS to learn about sunscreen for sure but you have enlightened me enough to search for some of the best product and sun wear possible.
Also, I still have questions coming in daily regarding Isagenix. Here are answers to the most common questions:
What were your end results for day 30? I am thrilled that I lost 11lbs in total along with 22.75 inches. Hubby lost 16lbs and 17 inches. My mum lost over 20lbs and 40inches!! Mum has decided to continue with another cleanse and has lost at least 12 more lbs already. We all look and feel incredible! I have several other family members using the program and who are achieving phenomenal results too. It is so exciting to see this much progress.
Will you post some before and after photos. Yes I will some time in the near future! I haven't taken any recent photos but will have hubby do so in the next few days :)
Edited to add photos:
BEFORE
AFTER
Other than the Isagenix website where else can I learn about the product? You are welcome to e-mail me OR there is a great video review on Isagenix.
I am a celiac. Can I use the product? The simple answer is yes. Many of the products are wheat and gluten free. There are however TWO products that do not meet this standard.
I am a diabetic. Can I use the products? Again the simple answer is yes however I highly recommend that you work with your doctor to ensure you have met all your needs too. Did you know the formulator for Isagenix is diabetic? You can bet he made sure he could use the product too!
I have IBS. Will this program work for me? That is a hard question to answer because results vary from person to person but in many cases it does improve IBS.
I am hypoglycemic and eat regularly throughout the day so how can I be sure to meet those needs especially on cleanse days? I too am hypoglycemic. I used the IsaSnacks and the IsaDelights to help stabilize my blood sugar levels in addition to curbing my hunger. I did surprisingly well on my cleanse days!
Can my children have the shakes too? Absolutely! Their portioning is slightly different but they can also enjoy the benefits of the shakes. In fact there are many products the kids can have from vitamins to fruit sources and much more!
I have _________ allergy. Can I use Isagenix products? The best way to answer that is to either contact me OR check out www.isagenixhealth.net to see how it works for certain conditions, lifestyle choices, kids, etc .
Are the shakes really THAT filling? Yes. I find they are most filling when you add ice to them. I like mine either the consistency of a malt or a little less thick while my hubby likes to drink them as if they are "chocolate milk". You can also add small amount of fruit from time to time. And don’t forget, if you are still hungry you can also have a healthy snack (fruit, veggies, a few nuts, etc.) every 2 hours so food is never too far!
I am a coffee drinker. I don’t think I can go without my caffeine because I need that to boost my energy especially first thing in the morning. My husband is a shift worker. He also NEEDED the boost during his shift. I too was used to having my jolt first thing in the morning. All I can say is that I look up to my hubby because he made it through without a stitch of coffee and for the most part didn’t feel that he needed it at all. We used the product “Want More Energy” which is a tasty drink mix several times in the day to fill the “coffee nitch”.
Do you sell Isagenix? Yes, I do sell Isagenix product however I do recommend you sign up as an associate rather than purchasing through me so that you benefit. Why you ask?
1. You save BIG TIME (remember your 30 day program can either cost you $260 OR $374) Like most of you I'd take the cheaper route! All you need to do is sign up for a membership which is $19 right now (just like you would for Costco).
2. You receive the most up to date information about new product and sale items and you can purchase more Isagenix product at any time. Throughout our cleanse we decided we needed more Want More Energy and were able to order it and receive it within a few days of ordering.
3. If you sign up as an Associate you can choose to earn income and pay for your product. Of course that decision is yours and there is NO pressure to sell anything.
How can I sign up?
You can either sign up through the website or contact me personally. I recommend that you first contact me so that I can help you decide what products will both support your personal goals but also your health needs. You would also receive support throughout your program (I'll cheer you on!) and support if you plan to make this into a business or earn money to pay for your product.
In addition to USA, Canada and Puerto Rico, Isagenix can also support people from New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and Taiwan. While you can sign up through the website if you are from USA, Canada or Puerto Rico, international countries can only enroll through an associate. You can email me and I will gladly set you up.
When you order you will fill in information and some of it may be confusing. By ordering as an Associate is better than ordering as a Preferred Customer. That way, "when" you are approached you can enroll someone up under you and will be compensated. When you get results like we did, people are going to ask you what you did in order to achieve it. My mum is a prime example. She has been going to the pool daily and attending an aqua fit class. The women in the class were so amazed by her transformation that they asked her what she did. She explained the program and about how she was feeling and before you knew it 3 ladies from her class became associates too! Again, when you order as an associate there is NO expectation of selling the product.
I also recommend signing up for autoship for even more savings.
Well there it is. I hope I have answered your questions. Feel free to continue to send me more questions and I will both send the answers to you personally and post them on my blog at a later time.
Hugs,
Alli
P.S. I decided to take a paper crafting break today but will have a new card to share tomorrow!!!
It's the final day of sneak peaks!! You know what that means?! The stamp sets will be fully revealed and all the stamps sets and goodies will be available through PTI. Don't forget to join the fun in the PTI forums on July 14th 7PM PST!! The chatter is quick but it is always exciting to talk to everyone too.
Card #1
Who isn't a cupcake fan? Cupcakes make birthday WAY more fun too. As some of us get older that "number" gets harder to accept. I just love the comic relief in this whimsical sentiment. I had to bold the "number" to emphasize that it is JUST a number!!
I was inspired by a card I saw in a SU! catalogue a few years ago. For some reason the layout stuck in my head and I could hardly wait to use it for this card--it just seemed to fit. The colour combo was inspired by the cake sprinkles in my cupboard. Isn't it amazing what can inspire us?
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th, hat image from It's a Celebration by PTI
Ink: Dark Chocolate by PTI, Spring Moss by PTI, Summer Sunrise by PTI, Aqua Mist by PTI, Sweet Blush by PTI, Snow Cap by PTI
Cardstock: Dark Chocolate by PTI, Spring Moss by PTI, Summer Sunrise by PTI, Aqua Mist by PTI, Sweet Blush by PTI, Stamper's Select White
Patterned Paper: Bitty Dot Basics by PTI
Accents: Ribbon by PTI
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layers.
Step 2. Cut 5 paper squares 1x1 and stamp cupcake images on each.
Step 3. Stamp sentiment.
Step 4. Attach ribbon, make a bow.
Step 5. Adhere remaining layers.
Card#2
My kids like to create cards for their friends' birthday parties. I always encourage my children to use my supplies (with the exception of the copic markers *wink*) to create a card that best represents their friends. Today's card is a quick 3x3 card that is perfect for someone of all ages...because really WHO is counting???
I paired Birthday Bash Sentiments with It's a Celebration (Madras Design) by PTI released a few years ago. I love pairing Raspberry Fizz and Orange Zest together with a splash of Hawaiian Shores . I think my favourite addition to this card is the pom pomon top of the party hat!!That is so something my daughter would add to a card :)
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th, hat image from It's a Celebration by PTI
Ink: Orange Zest PTI, Raspberry Fizz by PTI, True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Orange Zest PTI, Raspberry Fizz by PTI, Stamper's Select by PTI
Accents: Ribbon by PTI, Pompom
Tools: Copic markers
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layers.
Step 2. Stamp image and sentiment
Step 3. Colour letters "who" and star in hat.
Step 4. Adhere pompom.
Step 5. Adhere remaining layers.
Thanks for stopping by. I'd love to hear which card is your fav from all the sneak peaks this week. I hope to see you in the forums!!
Hello friends!!
Is it just me or are the days going by really quickly? I have two quick cards to share with you today. You know my CAS motto. I love clean and simple and of course quick and easy to make cards. I like cards that can be easily mass produced and that don't take hours upon hours to create. I think the longest I have ever spent on one card was 3 hours and that is just way too long. Sometimes I set a timer and when it beeps that is it--I can't adjust my card any longer. How about you? What are your stamping strategies? What is the longest time you have ever worked on one card before?
CARD #1
For the first card, I decided to use a mixture of ink and embossing. I have this beautiful address book that caused the inspiration and the colour scheme too! As you will see I embossed several of the images in gold and the rest using spring rain, dark chocolate, spring moss and vintage duos. I am very pleased with the effect and yet it was simple to do. I dressed up the card with a fun sentiment and a big bow!
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th, Life by PTI
Ink: Dark Chocolate by PTI, Spring Rain by PTI, Vintage Duos by PTI, Spring Moss by PTI, by Versamark Ink by Tsukineko
Cardstock: Vintage Cream by PTI, Spring Rain by PTI Accents: Misc ribbon, Gold emboss powder
Tools: Labels by Spellbinders
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layer.
Step 2.Create label die. Stamp sentiment
Step 3. Stamp floral images, emboss several images.
Step 4. Attach ribbon, make a bow.
Step 5. Adhere remaining layers.
CARD #2
The second card is super fun...do you see the flower? I made it using cupcake liners. I have a close up and you will see that I used some old holiday liners. They are mini cupcake liners and pressed it flat and folded them over. I put some adhesive in the middle and then placed them around the adhesive. I added the threaded button as a final touch. I like being resourceful and eco friendly. The kids love this card. I can totally see why too!
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th
Ink: Pure Poppy
Cardstock: Stamper's Select White by PTI, Spring Rain
Patterned Paper: Bitty Dot by PTI
Accents: Button by PTI, mini cupcake liners, Ribbon by PTI
Tools: Argyle Impression Plate by PTI, Labels die by Spellbinders, Tombo markers (linen and blue)
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper strop and use impression plate for texture.
Step 2.Cut labels.
Step 3. Fold cupcake liners and place them around the adhesive to create a flower. Attach threaded button to the center.
Step 4. Attach ribbon. Stamp sentiment (use tombo markers for different colours).
Step 5: Adhere remaining layers.
It was so nice to see you again!! As always I'd love to hear from you. And don't forget there's one more day of sneak peaks. See you again tomorrow.
Welcome to day three of sneak peaks for Birthday Bash Sentiments. I can hardly believe it's day 3 already!!! Today I will be featuring 4 more sentiments you haven't seen. I was a little playful with my creations as I wanted to show you how to use many of the items you have in your stash to compliment the sentiments from Birthday Bash Sentiments! Let's not wait another moment...
Card #1
Balloons and birthday, birthdays and balloons that's the way it is! Well at least at my house. I created some balloons using circle dies and felt. I also cut mini triangles for the balloon base and added floss too! While the balloons looked perfectly fine I decided to step it up a notch and add some buttons too. I just love the squares for the "happy" sentiment and decided they each needed their own colour. I coloured the blocks using tombo markers and then stamped the "birthday" sentiment directly below!
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th
Ink: True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Stamper's Select White by PTI, Linen Vellum by PTI,
Patterned Paper: Bitty Dot paper
Accents: Raspberry Fizz Felt by PTI, Hawaiian Shores Felt by PTI, Buttons by PTI, floss thread
Tools: Tombo markers (for letters in happy) Sunshine Impression Plate by PTI, Circle nestabilities by Spellbinders
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layers.Use impression plate for texture.
Step 2.Stitch second layer.
Step 3. Cut out balloons and create mini triangles for the base. Attach ribbon (add bow if desired). Thread buttons.
Step 4. Colour letters for "happy" using markers and then stamp "birthday".
Step 5. Adhere remaining layers.
Card #2
I told you I had a stamp in this set with some of my writing (eek!) well here it is!! I paired it with a super easy felt rose, woodgrain background and some thread too.
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th
Ink: True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Stamper's Select White by PTI, Raspberry Fizz by PTI, True Black by PTI
Accents: Simply Chartreuse Felt by PTI, Hawaiian Shores Felt by PTI, thread by PTI
Tools: Woodgrain impression plate by PTI, Scallop die by PTI
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layers.Create texture with impression plate.
Step 2.Cut felt flower. (Draw a sprial on your felt and cut around the edge until you get to the center. Roll the felt inward and fasten with either glue dots or thread) Cut leaves.
Step 3. Attach thread.
Step 4. Adhere remaining layers.
Card #3
There is something really fun about shaker cards. I thought it would be fun to put some curled birthday ribbon in the shaker!
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th
Ink: True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Stamper's Select White by PTI
Accents: Shaker , ribbon
Tools: Picnic Impression Plate by PTI
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and use impression plate for texture.
Step 2.Cut square and place in shaker.
Step 3. Stamp sentiment and curl ribbon. Place ribbon in the shaker.
Step 4. Adhere remaining layers.
Thank you for stopping by today! As always I'd love to hear from you. I'd like to know which card you liked the most today. And don't forget there will be sneak peaks all week long.
I am so glad you joined me today. I have two sentiment sneak peaks and I can hardly wait for you to see them. Today was a busy birthday day for me so I am running behind...my lil man had an awesome 8th birthday and was fortunate to celebrate with lots of extended family.
The first card is a simple yet elegant card. It could be used for a birthday, wedding, birth of a baby or a simple celebration. I love this sentiment because of the size and because of its versatility to be used for so many occasions. I love white on white. It just looks so pure! I decided to add one hibiscus button among the black to make the card more feminine and I like the idea that it could be showing how a friend stands out in a crowd :) I've provided two close up images so you can get a better look at the card as the lighting doesn't capture the effect.
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th
Ink: Hibiscus by PTI, True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Stamper's Select White by PTI, Linen Vellum by PTI
Accents: True Black Buttons by PTI, Hibiscus Burst Button by PTI
Tools: Beautiful Blooms II#13 die collection by PTI, Sunshine impression plate by PTI
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layer. Create impression on card base.
Step 2. Stamp sentiment on paper strip.
Step 3. Cut flowers and adhere button to center.
Step 4. Adhere remaining layers.
Second up is a decorative clear card. I decided to be a little eco friendly and all of the flowers I cut out from the vellum became the design for this card. Have a look at the second small photo below. I snapped a photo of the underside before I covered it in white cardstock. You can see I used the cut outs as the base for my felt flowers.Since I was using the outline I didn't have room for the sentiment on the card so instead I popped it up and framed it so it becomes a focal point.I just love how the letters in the font are different sizes and a mixture of upper and lower case.
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th, Fillable Frames #2 by PTI
Ink: Hibiscus by PTI, True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Stamper's Select White by PTI, Linen Vellum by PTI, Clear cardstock
Accents: Raspberry Fizz Felt by PTI, Simply Chartreuse Felt by PTI, Hawaiian Shores Felt by PTI, True Black Felt by PTI, Buttons by PTIt
Tools: Beautiful Blooms II#3 die collection by PTI, Fillable Frames 2 die by PTI
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layers.
Step 2.Cut flowers and circle out of felt with die and adhere button. Place the flowers in the open spaces.
Step 3. Adhere white cardstock inside of the card to hide the adhesive.
Step 4. Use die cut to create frame. Stamp sentiment and frame.
Step 5. Adhere remaining layers.
Thank you for stopping by today! As always I'd love to hear from you. I'd like to know which of the sentiments already featured is your favourite? And don't forget there will be sneak peaks all week long.
I am super excited to share this post with you today! Welcome to the first of 5 sneak peaks at a new stamp set from the Urban Design collection called Birthday Bash Sentiments. Birthday Bash Sentiments is a fresh take on birthday sentiments. You are going to love the variety: different fonts, different shapes, different sizes, different styles and different greetings too! And as I shared in an earlier post ONE of the sentiments has my handwriting in it.
I am going to start the countdown with a colourful card using ONE of the stamps in the collection "happy happy birthday". I began by repeat stamping over the background (how did I line it up you ask, a faint pencil line and a stamp a ma jig--and lots of patience too!) You'll note I decided to highlight one of the sentiments by stamping it on a white rectangle. Since summer just screams colour I added a burst of colour on the card: raspberry fizz, simply chartreuse, hawaiian shores, sweet blush and lavender moon with a contrast of white and true black.
SUPPLIES
Stamps: Birthday Bash sentiments (Urban Design Collection) by PTI available July 15th
Ink: Lavender Moon by PTI, True Black by PTI
Cardstock: Stamper's Select White by PTI, True Black by PTI, Sweet Blush by PTI
Accents: Raspberry Fizz Felt by PTI, Simply Chartreuse Felt by PTI, Hawaiian Shores Felt by PTI, True Black Felt by PTI, Pearls by Kaiser Craft, Gingham Ribbon by PTI, K and Company Brad
Tools: Circle nestabilities by Spellbinders, Beautiful Blooms II#3 die collection by PTI, Picnic Plaid impression plate
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Create card base and paper layer.
Step 2. Stamp sentiment over entire background and stamp sentiment on single piece of paper.
Step 3. Cut flowers and circle out of felt with die.
Step 4. Punch hole in center of black felt and place brad. Attach flowers and place pearls.
Step 5. Punch scallop border. Attach ribbon.
Step 6. Adhere remaining layers.
Thank you for stopping by today! I'd love to hear from you and don't forget there will be sneak peaks all week long (July 10-15).
Hugs;
Alli
P.S. I should have posted a more masculine card today because I am dedicating my stamp set and my card to my son who was born July 10 at 7:03AM 8 years ago. How time flies!! Happy birthday Andrew. Love you lots!! Mum xoxox
Hello again...if you are looking for a card or paper craft related thing you won't find one in this post (so if you are not interested in personal stuff you can skip this post and look for the new card post HERE.)
One of the most amazing things about technology is the ability to share information. Sometimes I am overwhelmed by how much information is available at the touch of the keyboard or click of the mouse. When I started to blog 3 years ago I had a purpose--to share information, to share ideas, to become part of a community. All of those things happened too!
If you have been following my blog for any length of time you are likely aware that I spent much of last fall and into winter very ill. It greatly effected my ability to post frequently and even function in a normal way. I had H1N1, adult croup, strep throat 3 times, colds, eye issues, migraines and more. I'd say that the end 2009 and early 2010 were some of the worst health months in my life. Many of you commented on how sick I was and how concerned you were. Thank you for your concern, for your advice and for your support! It made a real difference in my life.
I'm never one for doing something on the small scale. I push myself and do everything to the best of my ability. When we moved to a new house I had no idea what kind of work would be in store for me. The landscaping was the largest project I have ever taken on. In addition, my grandmother moved in, we got a puppy, I started homeschooling and of course continued working as a teacher and stamp designer. I was so busy at times that I started to forget to eat and then when I had a moment would eat all the wrong things. I was staying up way too late t(o get things finished) and then wake up early. It was a vicious cycle. Soon I found myself so tired and weak, 10lbs heavier and ridden with sickness. Even my motivation to do things I loved was lost.
Several months ago I made a vow to change my lifestyle. I decided I was going to loose the extra weight I gained since I moved here. I decided to exercise more. I just plain decided I wanted my life back.
I know some of you follow my daily antics on facebook and so you know I have been making changes. Since I have been getting so many questions I thought I would share what I have been doing and answer those questions too.
Change #1
I started to buy more "green" cleaning products. Did you know that many of our cleaning products are toxic to our health? Have you ever really read the label before? Some of the products I was using needed to sit on the counter or in the toilet for 10 minutes before using them. I had NO idea!! In addition, many of the cleaning products we use in our households are NOT acceptable to use in the workplace following health regulations. It makes me wonder why they sell them in the first place. I recommend you research fabric softener toxicity...very scary! I am a little OCD about cleaning so I am sure I am full of toxic chemicals after all the years of cleaning.
Anyways, a friend of mine held a home party for cleaning products. I had heard about Norwex before but had never seen them in action and had no idea where to buy the product. I attended the party and was sold--I even hosted my own party. I use water and special cloths to clean now. I also use a paste for stubborn cleaning. Did I mention ONE bag of laundry detergent will last me the year? In addition, I now have special dryer balls to help decrease my dryer time and keep my clothes from getting full of static. My best purchase was the window cleaner cloth. No streaks!! Revolutionary in my mind and now I am also helping my children grow up in a less toxic environment and doing my part to reduce my carbon footprint. Oh and I now use less paper towel and also I won't have to buy cleaning supplies for years to come. You can check the website to see if Norwex is available in your country.
Change # 2
As a busy mum I was forgetting meals and not eating as well as I should. I always put my kids and family first and I always came last (even after the dog sometimes!!). As a result I started to look at some options to ensure I was eating better: meal planning, organizing my cupboard/freezer, sitting down to eat more frequently and yet something was still amiss. I was still eating quick meals and eating out here and there. I was still choosing the wrong snacks. I was getting bored of meal planning and food in general and all the while I was packing on extra pounds. All of this was causing me to slow down. I was so sleepy and was lacking energy. I longed for the days before I had kids when I had a lot of energy. And I was quickly getting sick.
Well I did the impossible. Or at least what I thought was impossible. I started a 30 cleanse program through Isagenix. I had heard both good and bad about the company but was willing to give it a try as some of my extended family members had given it a try and had much success. And would you believe it did everything I needed it to do? I am sleeping better than I ever have, I lost the extra weight I gained (10lbs and MANY INCHES), I have tons of energy, I exercise regularly, my hair has improved, my teeth are whiter, and even my skin has a glow about it. The major changes included: no caffeine or alcohol (not like I consumed a lot anyways), drinking lots of water, drinking 2 shakes daily, eating healthy snacks and eating one healthy meal between 400-600 calories and of course there were cleanse days too. I also do a minimum of 20 minutes of exercise daily even if it is just wii fit (some days I don't have the time for a run, walk or aerobic workout outside the home). I have friends who are nutritionists who told me I could do a similar program on my own but the truth is, I needed it set up for me with rules and limitations. I didn't want to do the planning anymore--I have enough to plan and look after with the family. Now that I am nearing the end of the 30 day program (day 28) I am preparing the next step. During this month I will be following a health and wellness program for maintenance. I will be eating lunch rather than having a shake etc.
For the first time in years, I am eating ALL my meals, eating healthy snacks and drinking lots of water. I also don't crave sweets anymore (that is HUGE for me). I learned what my body needs and how to provide the proper nutrition. I like the fact that the programs are packed with essential vitamins, fruit and veggies. I also like that I have learned more about portion control and to drink water when I am feeling hungry.
Some of the questions people have asked me include:
Why did you do the program? (you can read that above) Btw, I don't like talking about weight because people assume that since I am smaller I don't have any "extra" but the truth was I did...I know I did. The scale doesn't lie and I know how much I weighed last year versus this year. Also, after having babies the extra weight finds places to hang!
Were you hungry during the program? Honestly, hardly ever. As long as I followed the "rules" I was fine. And when I did get hungry I ate one of the recommended snacks or drank water. My hubby did the program with me (I am sure he will tell me off for sharing that) and he was a little hungrier than me but that was because he was more of a snacker during the day and of course he weighs more and requires a little more food--which he ate btw, he lost 15lbs!)
How do you buy it? There are several way you can do this. You can either purchase the product from a someone who sells it OR you can sign up to become an associate (it's way cheaper if you sign up). I'd be happy to help you with this and you are welcome to contact me if you want more information about either of those options regardless of where you live around the world. Right now I can personally sign up and support people from Canada, US and Puerto Rico in addition to New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Are Isagenix products only for those who want to lose weight? Isagenix products are about lifestyle. They are great for people who want to increase their health, have more energy, and sleep really well! In fact many athletes use Isagenix to stay in top shape!
How much is the 30 day cleanse program? $260 wholesale when you sign up as an Associate on autoship. Otherwise you would pay $374 retail. So this truly is a HUGE savings!! Isagenix is seems expensive. Yes, so are my monthly groceries, eating out, the Starbucks coffees, buying vitamins, alcohol, snacks etc. Did you know it equates to around $9 for two meals a day!! And remember now you are only buying 6 meals a week. Health is worth it to me--after all when I was at my lowest I realized how much I took my body for granted. And you know the honest truth, we saved money this month!! I went grocery shopping twice this month (food for our suppers, the kids and for grandma). You are the one who knows your budget. If money is still a concern, I can show you how to earn commission with Isagenix and start earning a portion, or even all of your products plus residual income!
Was it hard to cook for the kids and your grandmother when you weren't eating with them? Honestly that only really happened 4 times in the month (cleanse days) and because I followed the program I had no problems with it. All the other nights we ate supper together.
What do you do after the program? Well that depends on your needs. Some people who want to lose more weight do another cleanse. Some people who are training for athletic events end up getting the athletic pack. I wanted to maintain my wellness (knowing the convenience of the shakes) so I decided to continue with the health and wellness program. Does that mean I will always need Isagenix? No. But the likelihood is I will always have shakes on hand for either breakfast or lunch. They are so filling unlike peanut butter and toast or cereal!
What made you so successful? First off, my family! They supported me the whole way especially my hubby and mum. Second, I had a cleanse coach (the one I signed up with--she was so helpful and supportive). Third, the results. When I started seeing results it motivated me so much more. A support team certainly helps to increase your success!
I am sure there were more questions but those are the ones I remember for now. Feel free to ask more if you want. I am always willing to share answers.I highly recommend that you consult with a cleanse coach before starting this program in order to ensure that all your health and medical needs are met. I belong to an awesome team and would be glad to help you! Just send me an e-mail or visit my site.
Keep in mind results vary for all individuals but judging from those within my family and my circle of friends I'd say I am impressed. As I said I haven't felt this good in years including my confidence levels.
Change #3
Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Even though I have been good with most of those I am sometimes tardy at reapplying sunscreen. As a strawberry blond fair skinned woman that is a no-no. There has been a lot of commotion in the news recently about the numbers on the bottle (is SPF 100 really better than SPF 50?) In most cases no. Did you know that one bottle of sunscreen should only last 4 outings? Ya....umm I guess it's not a good thing that I usually only go through 2 over the course of the summer.
Change #4
No is the new yes! Yup, I am one of those people. I am learning to say no and realistically look at my life to see if there is balance. I can't do everything and be everywhere no matter how hard I try. The perfectionist in me struggles with that but my health and wellness tells me otherwise.
If you made it this far I just want to thank you for letting me share the changes in my life. Baby steps are important and it has to be something you are willing to commit to but once you get going there is no stopping! I am grateful for all that I learned this year and again for your support and concern along the way.
