More Season's Greetings.

Evening all!

Thought I'd share another few of the christmas cards I've made using my new Paula Pascula stamps, this time using the Large Christmas set. They are the same but different if that makes sense!!

Materials

CS: SU Whisper White. Blue CS from my stash

Images: Paula Pascual Large Christmas set

Sentiment: Paula Pascual Christmas Sentiments set

Tools: SU Scallop border punch, Versafine ink in Deep Lagoon and Majestic Blue, 2" Circle Punch, Scalloped circle nestie, Cuttlebug snowflake embossing folder

Misc: Adhesive pearls from my stash

I'm loving these Paula Pascual christmas stamps and they are such a bargain at £4.99! I can see the bulk of my christmas cards this year being made with these this year!

I had a fab time at Julies last night. We had pirate night to celebrate the new 'Beware Pirate's' stamp set by SU. We wore eyepatches and even had a 6ft Johnny Depp with us joining in the celebrations. I didn't have my camera with my but Luckily Julie did and she has some pictures on her blog if you want to take a peak!

Well I'm of to watch a bit of TV and have a cuppa before it's bedtime. Only 2 more days at work then I've 9 days off! Roll on friday!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

First Christmas Cards!

Good morning all!

Where's the nice weather we're supposed to be having this weekend? It's damp and miserable looking here in West Yorkshire this morning! I hope there's a bit more sunshine wherever you are?!

Today I have a few christmas cards to show you that I've recently made with my newest craft purchases, some Paula Pascual stamps. I saw these designs over on Sarita's blog and as soon as I saw them I just had to have them! These images are ideal for those quick multiple make christmas cards and perfect for me as I love the CAS look!

Apologies for the quality of the pictures, it's hard to get good shots with this miserable weather!

For these first few cards I decided to stick with traditional colours of green and red.

Materials

CS: SU Whisper White and Old Olive. Burgundy CS from my stash

Images: Paula Pascual Joyful Bubbles set

Sentiment: Paula Pascual Christmas Sentiments set

Tools: SU Polka Dot background stamp (retired), SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, SU Ink in Old Olive, Versafine ink in Crimson Red, 1" Circle Punch, Sponges for inking the
edges

Misc: Glamour dust for the baubles (altough I don't think it shows too well
on the pictures)

I made all of these cards in 10cm x 10cm size, cute little christmas cards perfect for my colleagues at work. I have made some more christmas cards using these stamps but using a blue color palette. I'll show you these later in the week!

Well I'm off to Julies SU Catalouge Launch this afternoon. Really looking forward to it as I'll get to spend a few hours catching up with my crafty friends and also get see my mum who I haven't seen for a few weeks!

Hope you all enjoy the rest of your weekend, and thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Thinking of you!

Good morning all! Well it's been over a week since my last post. I've been so busy I've barely had time for any crafting. Work is still really hectic, but I had a lovely weeekend away with my family in the Lakes last weekend! It was lovely for us all to be together and the weather was perfect, so thanks to you all if you kept your fingers crossed for me, it worked!!

Today I have a card to show you all that I made a few weeks back at another one of Jules crafty nights! We made three cards using the same colours and this was my favourite...

Materials

CS: SU Whisper White, Basic Black and Pretty in Pink

Images: SU Live your Dream set (retired)

Sentiment: SU Sincere Salutations

Tools: SU eyelet border punch, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, SU Boho Blossoms punch, SU Ink in Pretty in Pink and Old Olive

Misc: SU soft subtles buttons, Sponges for inking the edges of the flowers

I love this sentiment set. It was my first ever purchase from SU and I love it, it's such a classic design you can use it for almost any occasion.

I am so excited today. For a start it's my day off (and believe me I need it) and secondly I get my new car today and here it is.....



Isn't she a cutie (It's too pretty to be a boy so I've decided she's a she!! I have had a mini before but sold it 3 years ago and got a corsa! There's just no comparison though and I have really missed being behind the wheel of a mini, so I can't wait to get into my new one!

Well I'd best get my skates on and go get ready so I can get my car!!! Thanks for stopping by and for any comments you may leave. I really appreciate each and every one of them!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Something other than a card!!

Good morning all! I hope I find you all well.

Today I have something a little different to show you. I have recently made some corner bookmarks for my colleagues at work and some of my friends. I found this tutorial sometime last year and have made quite a few of these now! They are so simple to make and just that little bit different from your standard bookmark! The perfect little gift for those who love to read! In fact they were so popular I have had requests for some more!





This one I made for a special friend of mine with my new inkadinkado stamps!

Materials

CS: SU Kraft, Whisper White and Rose Red

Paper: SU Rose Red Designer Series (Retiring at the end of this month)

Images: SU Vintage Vogue set

Sentiment: Inkadinkado Friendly Advice

Tools: SU Polka Dot Background Large Stamp, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, SU ink in Rose Red and Old Olive, Sponges for distressing

Well I hope you like my corner bookmarks! I'd best dash now and get ready for work. It's been a real hectic week. Only 2 more days to work and then I've three days off and I'm heading to the lake district for the weekend with my family! Can't wait! Keep your fingers crossed for me for fine weather!

Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Happy Anniversary Mum and Dad!

Good morning all!

Well the weekend is almost here and the sun is shining this morning, just a shame I've got to go to work!

Today I have the card I made for my mum and dad's anniversary to show you, which I made at the lovely Jules 'Love' class. It was their 32nd anniversary last week so I am safe to show you this now as I definately know they have receieved it! I am also entering it into this weeks cute card thursday challenge, which is to include birds or butterlies on your card.

An arty farty side angle to show you the easel design!

Materials

CS: SU Whisper White, Taken with Teal (retiring at the end of this month!) and Soft Suede

Paper: SU sweet pea designer stack (Also retiring)

Images: SU Love you much set

Sentiment: SU Cheer and Wishes set and Tiny Tags

Tools: SU scalloped edge punch, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, SU Tag punch, SU Small heart punch, SU ink in Taken with Teal and Soft Suede, Paper piercing tool

Misc: SU Soft Suede spotty ribon (Also retiring) and twine

This card also involved my favourite paper piecing technique, I just love doing this!

Justa quick post for me today, I'd best get my skates on and get to work.

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you all enjoy your weekend, whatever you're up to!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Seeing Spots on your birthday!

Good morning all! I hope you're having a lovely weekend?!

I spent a lovely friday evening having a BBQ with friends at their Caravan in Stamford Bridge before returning home on saturday to go round to my friend Julie's for a crafty SU afternoon, it was small and intimate with just the 3 of us (Jill too!), but I had lovely few hours just crafting away to my hearts content, so thanks Jules! I'll take some pictures of the projects I made and share them with you soon.

Onto today's card. I have a few male birthday's coming up and I always struggle with these as men don't do cute really do they?! So I dug out my the lovely Seeing Spots set which is perfect for making your own backgrounds.

The inside again (it's addictive isn't it!!).

Materials

CS: SU Whisper White, Taken with Teal (retiring at the end of this month!) and Choc Chip

Images: SU Seeing Spots (Retiring at the end of this month!)

Sentiment: Both inside and out from a See D's birthday set

Tools: SU spiral edge punch, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, Nestabilities labels one, SU ink in Taken with Teal, Pumpkin Pie and Choc Chip, Sponges for distressing

Misc: Record Card, Twine, button and ribbon all from my stash

Well I am quite happy with how this turned out and I just love this Seeing Spots set. It's a shame that SU are retiring this at the end of this onth, but I've got mine and it will be staying firmly on my shelf as I find it so useful and versatile!

Right I'm off to get dressed. Not sure what today holds but I want to do some baking and I think a trip to the supermarket is order!

Thanks for stopping by and for any comments you leave, I love to hear from you!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Happiness Always!

Good morning all!

What a downpour we had last night. I could hear the rain pit pattering away on my roof as I went to sleep last night. I hope it stays fine today as I've got the day off work and don't want to be stuck indoors all day!

So today I have a weding card to show you. My SIL asked me to make her a card for a wedidng she was attending last weekend, so I reached for my stampendous stamp that I haven't used in a while and this is the result!


The inside. I love decorating the insides now, why did I never do this before??!!

Materials

Papers: SU Bridesmaid Speciality Papers ( only avalailable
until the end of september so hurry if you want them!)

CS: Black from my stash, SU Whisper White

Images: Stampendous Happy Couple

Sentiment: SU Occasional Greetings and SU Whimsical Words (sentiment inside)

Tools: SU scalloped edge punch, SU Scalloped Oval punch, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, Cropodile

Misc: Glamour dust, Adhesive pearls from my stash

Not sure you can quite make out the sparkle on her dress and veil, but I promise you it's there. Used my favourite paper peicing technique again for her dress, using the Bridesmaid papers. I LOVE these papers, perfect for wedding/anniversary cards. I can't believe they're retiring them at the end of this month! :-(

I hope all you SU fans out there have put in your last chance orders form the retiring list. I know I have!! If not you'd better hurry as once it's sold out it won't be coming back! If you want to have a look at the last chance list you can here!

Well I hoped you like today's card and thanks for stopping by. I'm going to have some breakfast and decide what to do today!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Sweet Birthday Wishes!

Good morning all!

The sun is shining and it looks like it is going to be a beautiful day! I'm really enjoying my week off of work and I can't believe what nice weather we've had over the last few days! It looks like I picked the right week!! I am going out with my mum for the day to York today, but before I head off I thought I would share with you a card I made yesterday for my neice's upcoming birthday in a few weeks (can't believe I'm so organised!). I even used the challenge sketch from this weeks A Spoonful of Sugar, it's been a while since I entered a challenge!

I dug out some new stamps that I bought a while back from Elzybells and started getting creative!


An inside view again, it's getting quite addictive this decorating the inside of the card malarky!

Materials

Papers: SU Sweet Pea Designer Paper stack (from the mini catalogue, only avalailable
until the end of september so hurry if you want it!)

CS: SU Pretty in Pink and Rose Red

Images: Elzybells 'Hey Cupcake' Clear Two step stamping set

Sentiment: Craftwork cards, Inkadinkado (sentiment inside)

Tools: SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, Sponges for
distressing around the edges, Nellie's circle dies, SU Blender pen, SU Oval punch

Misc: SU inks in Rose Red, Pretty in Pink and So Saffron, Elzybells Co-ordinates Ink Pads in Cookie Dough and Sticky Toffee, Adhesive pearls from my stash

I really enjoyed using this Elzybells cupcake kit, I love two step stamping and because this kit is clear it is so easy to use and there are infinite combinations you can make!

Well that's all for me today, got to get ready before my mum gets here. Thanks for stopping by and for any comments you may leave!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Now & Forever!

Evening all!

Well it's been over a week again since I posted anything. Life's still a bit hectic and I've been struggling to fit everything in, but I did manage to make a card this past week for my brother and sister in law's 1st wedding anniversary, which was yesterday. I can't believe it was a year ago that they got married, I honestly don't know where the year went!! I don't think they've got their card yet, even thought I posted it in plenty of time, as they've been at the Leeds festival enjoying all the music since thursday. So it'll be interesting to see whether they like it when they get back! I hope so, as I had fun making it!



I just had to give decorating the inside a go. Now I don't always do this (especially if I'm a bit short on time, or patience!) but I really think it finishes a card off perfectly!

Materials

Papers: SU Sweet Pea Designer Paper stack (from the mini catalogue, only avalailable
until the end of september so hurry if you want it!)

Images: SU Love You Much

Sentiment: SU Occasional Greetings and See D's (sentiment inside)

Tools: SU scalloped edge punch, SU heart to heart punch, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, Sponges for
distressing around the edges, Circle and scalloped circle nesties

Misc: SU inks in Rose Red, Taken with Teal and So Saffron, Adhesive pearls from my stash

I also used one of favourite techniques in making this card. Paper piecing!! I haven't done it for a while and this bird image is perfect for this technique. Well I hope you like it?!

I've spent the weekend in the lake district with my OH. He is there for two weeks at a rehabilitation centre. It is a fantastic place where injured firefighters (and their family) can go to recover/recouperate from injuries. It is a registered charity and they rely on fundraising and donations to keep rehabilitations centres such as these open. They do such an amazing job and provide such a great service. If anyone is interested you can find out more about it here at The Fire Fighters Charity website.

Well I hope you are all enjoying your bank holiday weekend, whatever you are up to and thanks for stopping by to say hi!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Sorry I've been AWOL....

... for over a week but I'm having a tough time of it at work lately and I've lost my mojo. Crafting is the last thing I want to do lately when I've had a hectic day at work, I just want to relax and have an early night! Lol! I have got a week off work coming up soon, so hopefully I might get back into my craft room!

So without further ado let me show you a quick card I made the other week.

Materials

CS: SU Rose Red, Pretty in Pink, Old Olive & Whisper White

Papers: SU Rose Red Designer Series

Images: SU VintageVouge

Sentiment: SU Vintage Vouge

Tools: SU three step bird punch, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, Sponges for
distressing around the edges

Misc: SU ink in Rose Red, Felt Circle from the SU felt flowers set

Well I must dash, got to be out of the door for work in 20 minutes! Roll on 5pm! Lol!

Thanks for stopping by and I hope to be back again soon!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Thanks so much!

Good morning all!

Only two days left and then it's the weekend! Yay! I am soooo looking forward to a lie in!

Today I though I'd share with you a card I made for my mum. I know she has received it now so it's safe to show you! I was inspired to make this card from a card I had seen Carole had made, so thanks Carole for the inspiration! I just loved the idea of using pink with brown and green for the tree's, something I hadn't thought would necessarily work before I saw Carole's card.

So here it is:

Materials

CS: SU Melon Mambo, Choc Chip, Kraft (Crumb Cake) & Whisper White

Images: SU Trendy Tree's set

Sentiment: SU Trendy Tree's Set

Tools: SU Scalloped border punch, SU Stamp-a-ma-jig, Cropodile, Sponges for
distressing around the edges

Misc: SU ink in Old Olive, Choc Chip and Melon Mambo

I love this cute trendy tree's set. I got mine at christmas and just love this two step stamping technique, a stamp-a-ma-jig is a must though if you want to ensure your imagesoverlap/fit perfectly together. Those of you who know me will know how much of a perfectionist I am so the stamp-a-ma-jig is my must have tool!

This cute Trendy Tree's set is on offer this month from SU with 20% off for the month of August, so if you fancy this little set of stamps (8 in total, 2 of which are setiments), now is the perfect time to snap them up for only £10.36! If you would like to order this set I can recommend the wonderful Julie. Great friendly service!

Speaking of Julie, I went to another of her fab classes on tuesday night. I love our tuesday night group, such a great group of ladies where we can indulge in crafting, chatting, a cuppa and some cake, perfect! Thanks for a great night Jules!

That's all for me today folks, best get my skates on or else I'll be late for work!

Thanks for stopping by,

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Together Forever!

Evening all!

I hope you've all had a good weekend? Sorry I've not been around much this week but I was busy enjoying some me time with my mum at Ragdale Hall! We had a fab time, lots of eating, relaxing and sleeping! Can't wait to go again next year! Back to reality tomorrow though as I go back to work after 5 days off!

Today I have a card to show you that I gave to a friend of mine for her wedding last weekend. I made it a while back at one of Julies tuesday night card classes and if you like the look of it she is doing a tutorial for this card and some matching products at the minute so pop over here and take a look!

Materials


CS: SU Basic Black

Papers: SU Bridesmaid & Groom Specialty Papers

Image: SU 'Mr & Mrs' stamp set

Sentiment: SU 'Mr & Mrs' stamp set

Tools: SU heart punch

Misc: Black Brads, Adhesive gemstones, Flat back Pearls

Well I hope you like it! I love these Speciality papers. They are so perfect for wedding and anniversary cards! I have used these bridesmaid papers to create my own wedding invitiations (I must get around to popping it on here to show you!).

I know I seem to be using a lot of SU products on my cards of late, no I have not signed up to be a demonstrator, although I may as well have the amount I've bought lately! I just love how all the products co-ordinate so well together!

Short and sweet post for me today. I must dash as I've got to get tea ready!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Cheers to You!

Evening all!

I hope you've all had a good weekend?! I've been busy working, but only 2 days left to work and then I've 5 days off and a pampering spa break to look forward to!

Today I have a male card to show you. Now I'm not a fan of doing men's cards, usually because most of my stash is more suitable for female cards, but it's my FIL's birthday next weekend and so I needed a card for him. This card also meets with the challenge over at Simon Says Stamp this week, where they want to see lots of dots! I can't remember the last time I entered one of my cards into a challenge!

Materials


CS: SU Choc Chip, Old Olive & Whisper White

Image: Beer mug from SU 'Cheers to You' set

Sentiment: SU Cheers to You

Tools: SU 'Seeing Spots' stamp set to create the background, Sponges
for distressing

Misc: SU ink pads in Choc Chip, Pumpkin Pie and Old Olive. Whispers pens, Craftwork cards
card candy, glossy accents

It's the first time I've used both my 'Seeing Spots' and 'Cheers To You' sets. I hate to admit it but they've been sat in a bag waiting to be used for the past 3 months! Both of these are perfect for male cards though. I especially love how you can create your own backgrounds with the Seeing Spots stamps.

I seem to have taken a step back from using cute characters on my cards of late and have adopted the more CAS approach. I still like the cute stamps but I'm enjoying experimenting a bit more, after all not every recipient likes cute!

Well thanks for stopping by. I'm off for an early night. I need to be up early tomorrow to take my OH to his physio appointment. He ruptured his achilles tendon around 11 weeks ago. Thankfully he's on the mend now, but boy has it been a tough 11 weeks! Lol!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Birthday Cheer and Wishes!

Morning all!

I had a lovely day off yesterday, an hour in my craft room, a few hours at the beauty salon followed by some shopping! Perfect! Back to work today, only 6 days to work though before I head off to Ragdale Hall with my mum next week!

Today I have another card to show you that I made at Julies all day workshop the other week. We were given a goody bag full of papers and CS and had to create our own designs. The colours we had to work with were pumpkin pie, old olive, rose red and pretty in pink. I think these colours go so well together! It's not very often that I like using orange but I think it gives a lovely summery feel!

Materials


CS: SU Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red & Whisper White

Sentiment: SU Cheer and Wishes

Tools: SU Two step bird punch, SU Vintage Vougue stamp set, Sponges
for distressing, Stamp-a-ma-jig

Misc: SU ink pads in Rose Red, Punpkin Pie and Old Olive

Quick post from me today, must dash now and get ready for work! Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Mum's Birthday!

Evening all!

Today is my mum's birthday so I want to wish her a happy birthday (I already did this morning on the telephone but you know what I mean!). It is now safe to show you the card I made her as I know she's opened it now!

I got a lovely package from Elizabeth at Elzybells last week, filled with lots of lovely stamps. I'm still so sad that they are soon going to be no longer! :-( I couldn't wait to ink some of them up though so I decided to use some of them for my mum's birthday card!

And here's the finished result:


....and a view of the inside to show you. I have decided I like decorating the inside to compliment the outside, it finishes it off so much better!


I'm not too happy with the quality of the pictures I've taken though. It looks a bit washed out, although I assure you it looks better IRL, especially the ribbon. For some reason it looks really pale!

Materials:

Image: Elzybells Floral Fervour set

CS: SU Kraft & Choc Chip

Sentiment: Elzybells Fervour sentiments & SU Sincere Salutations

Tools: Sponges for distressing

Misc: Ribbon from hobbycraft, Bronze Stickles, SU Choc Chip ink pad

Now I don't think you can see the glitter properly on the dandelions heads, but I can assure you it does sparkle more IRL!

Well I was happy with the end result. I just hope my mum was too!

I've had a really really hectic day at work, only tomorrow to go then I can have a day off, and I've got a pedicure and Minx nails booked in! Can't wait to be pampered! Then next week I go away with my mum to Ragdale Hall for a few night! Bliss!! I think we might even take some craft stash with us so we can have some creative time in the evening!

Thanks for stopping by today and for any comments you may leave! I really do appreciate them.

Going to have a cuppa and watch eastenders now!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

My Favourite sentiment EVER!

Good morning all!

Today I have a day off so though I would share with you one of the cards I made last weekend at Julie's SU workshop. I absolutely love the colours we used and of course the first card I made had to include my all time favourite sentiment! I don't know what it is about this sentiment stamp that makes me love it so. I think it's a combination of the verse, the design and the font!

Materials

Papers: SU Designer Series Papers in Old Olive

CS: SU Pretty in Pink, Rose Red & Whisper White

Sentiment: SU Occasional Greetings Set

Tools: SU Eyelet border punch

Misc: SU Stitched Felt Flowers, Rose Red ink pad, Stamp-a-ma-jig

I love this card, the colours, it's simplicity the LO, everything really! That' the beauty of SU products, everything co-ordinates so well together!

I have plenty more cards that I made last weekend to still show you so make sure you keep your eye's peeled for further posts!

Well that's all for me today. I've got to get myself ready as we're off for lunch in the Yorkshire Dales today!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Small Wonder!

Morning all!
I hope I find you all enjoying your weekend!

Where's the sunshine gone to? Well, I suppose this is british summertime for you!

I am back today with a few more creations to show you using one of the new stamps from Lili of the Valley that I bought the other week from the stamp Magic Show at the Doncaster Dome.

I am still sticking to my plan of making two cards using the same design whilst I have all my stash out. Today I have gone for some new baby cards, one for a girl and one for a boy. I love this stamp. So versatile and cute to boot!

Materials

Image: 'Baby Blanket' from Lili of the Valley, coloured with
koh-i-noor pencils and sansodor

Papers: Leftover scraps from stash, think they're papermania

Sentiment: SU Whimsical Words

Tools: Sponges for inking edges, Stamp-a-ma-jig

Well I have to say I went to the most fabulous SU workshop yesterday held by the wonderful Jules. There was 22 of us in total and we crafted almost non stop from 10-4pm. I think I was the last person to pack up I was enjoying myself so much!! I want to say a huge thankyou to Jules for arranging such a fun packed day and also a hello to the girls who were on my table. My fab friend Jill, Jayne, Karen, Sarah.B and Sarah! We had such fun and spent most of the day in stitches! So watch this space as I have lots of projects to show you that I have done over this weekend. Its definately got my mojo flowing again, I just need to find some time to craft now!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend and thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

I am so sad to hear...

.... that Elzybells Art Stamps is closing it's doors! Elizabeth has made the agonising decision to close her wonderful company after 7 years. If like me you love her stamps then you will know exactly how I am feeling! I cannot believe that we will never see any of her wonderful new designs again. If you head on over to the online shop there is a closing down sale now on with 50% off all stamps and 60% of all ink pads. But you'll have to be quick if you want to get your favourite stamps as once they're gone, they're gone. Needless to say I have been over and spent a small fortune, but in my eyes it's worth it as it's my last opportunity to stock up on these fab designs! They'll keep me going for some time anyway!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

My mojo's on it's way back!

Evening all! I hope you are all enjoying your weekend and the gorgeous weather we've been having eher in the UK these past few weeks. It seems that summer is finally here!

I'm sorry it's been a while since my last post but as I said before I have been struggling with my mojo and have done very little crafting. However, I am pleased to report that my mojo appears to be slowly returning. I have so much lovely stash that I have hardly used I thought I should make the effort and try to create again!

So here is my lastest creation....


I have yet again opted for the CAS look. Stick to what you do best is my moto! I have also decided that if I am going to do a CAS card I may as well make 2 of the same design whilst I have all my stash out, helps build up the card box! Lol! So I made 2 of this card. I just love the colours! Pink and green together works so well in my opinion, and it' such a girly colour combination!

Materials

CS: SU Melon Mambo, Old Olive & Whisper White

Sentiment: SU Occasional Greetings Set

Tools: SU Scalloped border punch, SU It's beautiful Jumbo wheel, Cropodile

Misc: Adhesive gems from papermania, Flower from stash and sponged
with Melon Mambo ink

Don't you just love this new colour, Melon Mambo from SU. The sentiment and Melon Membo goodies are part of my recent craft splurge so I just had to get round to using them first! I just love this sentiment. I have coveted it for the best part of a year and so decided enough was enough and I bought the set that it was in!

All of the SU products that I have used on this card can be bought from the lovely Jules, my SU supplier and friend. It is Jules' birthday today so I just want to wish her a happy birthday. I hope you have had a lovely day!

Well that's all from me for now. Thanks for stopping by and hopefully this time it won't be as long before I'm back again!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Thinking of You!

Evening all! I am sooooo sorry I haven't been around for a while! My mojo is still AWOL and I have done very little crafting over the past 2 months. In fact the only crafting I have done is at the SU workshops I attend, run by the fabulous Jules!

I have had a few comments from fellow bloggers saying they would like to see me blogging again, so for you I have decided to upload one of the cards I made before the crafting drought began! It is using the very first stamp that I bought, and she is still one of my favourites!

Materials

Image: 'Maggie with Flowers' by Sugar Nellie. Coloured with Koh-i-noors and Sansodor.

CS: DCWV

Paper: MME Penny Lane Glittered stack

Sentiment: Hero Arts

Tools: Nellie Snellens frames, sponges & SU Old Olive ink for distressing

I've never really gone for the green/purple combo before but I was inspired by the papers. I am pleased with how this card turned out though and have decided this is definately more my style. There are some really talented people out there who can use multiple papers/CS/Flowers/Buttons on their cards and make them look fabulous! However, I am not one of them! I have come to the conclusion that I should stick to what I know and do best, and that is the CAS style!

Well thanks for stopping by, I can't promise that I will be posting again anytime soon, but I think my mojo is slowly coming back. I have been looking at all your fabulous blogs and it is certainly giving me inspiration! I'd also like to thank everyone for their support and kind words I've had recently!

I am also going to Julies 'one for the boys' SU class tomorrow with my mum and I am looking forward to it, so fingers crossed my mojo will return soon!

Big hugs to you all

Vicky ~x~

Happy Birthday to Ewe!

Good morning all!

Well I'm on the road to recovery following my surgery, feeling much better now and starting to do more. I'm still off of work but hoping to go back next week. I have been feeling a bit low these past few weeks, I guess a mixture of boredom and lack of motivation to do anything much apart from sit and watch TV. It hasn't helped that I haven't been able to drive and have had to rely on my wonderful fiance to chauffeur me around. When he's been at work I've been stuck in the house! Hopefuly that's going to change this week. I'm going to try and get back behind the wheel and get out and about! A big thank you to those who have sent me get well messages and also to the wonderful Michelle who sent me the most fabulous parcel! You really are so sweet hun!

Anyway enough about me I have actually got a card to show you. It's the first card I have made in about 6 weeks! I am hoping that this means my mojo is slowly starting to return. I made this card for my adorable fiance (who has been a real star whilst I have been poorly). It's his birthday this coming weekend so I though I'd best get my finger out! I really didn't want to have to buy a card, even with my lack of mojo, so this is what I came up with!

Materials
Image: Little Birdie set from Elzybells. Coloured with promarkers and SU Old Olive & So Saffron

CS: SU Kraft

Sentiment: Little Birdie set from Elzybells

Tools: SU Oval punch, SU Scalloped oval punch

Misc: Twine from stash, SU Blender pen

I've gone back to what I love doing best, CAS style cards. My other half isn't a fan of fussy cute cards, so I though this had just the right amount of cute factor for a man. I dug out this Elzybells set as I hadn't used it in I don't know how long and thought it would be perfect for him!

I also have a bit of sad news to share with you. I have decided to step down from the Sugar Nellie DT and also from the WOJ Challenge DT. There were many reasons behind my decision to step down, a few of them being my lack of mojo and recent illness. I think I just needed to step back from it all and take some time out. Crafting should be enjoyable and my past commitments along with life in general were starting to make it feel like a chore. I am hoping that when my mojo finally returns crafting will once again be something I really enjoy doing. But for the time being I am just enjoying spending a bit more time with my friends and family and just blogging / crafting when the urge takes me.

I would like to say a huge thank you to Karen at Sugar Nellie and Donalda over at WOJ Challenge for giving me the opportunity to be a part of their DT's. I enjoyed my time with you and feel honoured you thought my designs were worthy of a place on your DT.

Wow, this is quite a long post for me. I hope you're all still with me and I haven't bored you all to death! Lol! Well I'd best get off this computer and start thinking about some dinner. My OH is playing golf this morning but should be home shortly and I want him to come home to a nice spread!

Thanks for stopping by and for any comments you may leave me and I hope to be back again soon!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Apologies!

Morning all!

Just a quick post to say sorry I've not been around. I am still suffering with lack of mojo and to top it of I've been in hospital and had emergency surgery. Came home yesterday so still recovering!

Hope to be back in the land of blog with you all soon.

Hugs,

Vicky ~x~

WOJ Challenge - Janes sketch!

Morning all!

I am back today with my first card after my wonderful holiday! It was a much needed break to recharge my batteries, just a shame it all passed so quickly and I'm back home! As they say all good things must come to an end! :-)

As is it wednesday it is time for another challenge over at Whiff of Joy, and we have another fabulous sketch for you to follow by the talented Jane! Thanks for this Jane, I really enjoyed using your sketch, it suits my CAS style perfectly! Remember, there is only 1 Rule you must use a Whiff of Joy Stamp!

Materials
Image: Cool Oakley available from Whiff Of Joy. Coloured with koh-i-noors and sansodor

Paper: SU (Retired)

CS: SU Kraft, Choc Chip and Brilliant Blue

Sentiment: Craftwork Cards

Tools: Nesties, SU Oval punch, Cuttlebug swiss dots folder

Misc: Buttons from SU and twine from stash

I hope you can join in with the challenge with us this week and I look forward to seeing your creations!

Please excuse me if I am not around as much over the next few weeks, I am really suffering with getting back into my crafting after my hols, my mojo seems to have up and left me! I'm hoping that my passion for it returns really soon, I will still be visiting all my blogging friends though to see what you've all been up to, hopefully it will inspire me! Lol!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

I'm back...

.... from my hols! I had a wonderful time but am suffering a bit with jet lag and mojoitis! Almost 3 weeks off from crafting has done nothing for my mojo, and I hate to admit it but I haven't really missed my crafting whilst I've been away! Shameful to admit I know!

I think we all need a break from it every now and then though!

I though I would share a few pictures with you of beautiful Thailand. It was just stunning!













I don't think these pictures actually do it justice, it loks so much more beautiful IRL!

Happy Easter to you all. I am going to visit my mum & dad today for lunch, the first time I've seen them since before I went on holiday! Have a great day everyone and I hope to be back soon with some creations to show you all!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

WOJ Easel card and Bon Voyage!

Good morning all!

Another wednesday and that means only one thing. It's time for another challenge over at Whiff Of Joy. This week we would like to see you make an easel card. Remember there is only 1 Rule you must use a Whiff of Joy Stamp!


Another angle to show you the full 3D effect! Easel cards are so difficult to photograph!

Materials
Image: Molly Celebrating Sheep available from Whiff Of Joy. Coloured with SU inks and blender pens

Paper: SU Sunny Days Scrappin kit

CS: SU Tempting Turquoise

Sentiment: Little Birdie set from Elzybells

Tools: Nesties, sponges for distressing, SU Scalloped border punch, Cropodile, SU Scalloped Oval punch, SU Oval punch

Misc: Tempting Turquoise grosgrain ribbon

Now I have to admit, I was an easel card virgin prior to this one, and I really enjoyed making it! I'll definately be making one of these again. I hope you will be able to join us this week!

Well as you read this I will be on my way to the airport! I am officially now on vacation! So please excuse my abscence for a few weeks! I am in desperate need of some R&R, the past few months, especially at work have been hectic!

See you all soon! Hopefully I'll have some pics to show you on my return!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

You're too kind!

Morning all! I hope you all enjoyed your weekend!

I had a lovely weekend both on saturday in York with my friend and yesterday with my family! I want to say a big thankyou to everyone for my birthday wishes and birthday cards! I got lots of lovely presents and some money which I will be spending on some new craft stash no doubt!

Today I have the cute 'April Showers' image to show you again. I made a card using her a few posts ago, but I masked off her umberella. This time I have used the image in all it's glory!

Materials

Image: 'April Showers' from the new Manga collection by Sugar Nellie. Available here at Funky Kits. Coloured with Koh-i-noors asn Sansodor.

CS: SU Old Olive

Paper: MME Penny Lane Glittered stack

Sentiment: SU Whimsical words

Tools: Nellie Snellens frames, sponges for distressing

As you can see I have used my Penny Lane papers again! They are so sparkly and glittery, although I'm not sure you can pick this up on the picture?! I just looooove them! I promise to try and use diferent papers for my next card! Lol!

Well, back to work for me today, but I only have to work today and tomorrow (and I finish at 12.30 tomorrow) and then I'm off on my holidays! Only 3 sleeps left! Yay!

Best get off and get ready.

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

You're the best!

Good morning all! I hope I find you all well and looking forward to the weekend?!

Today I have another of the sweet Manga images to show you from Sugar Nellie! I have thoroughly enjoyed using these cute images, just so easy to work with and colour!

Materials

Image: 'Dreamy' from the new Manga collection by Sugar Nellie. Available here at Funky Kits. Coloured with Koh-i-noors and Sansodor.

CS: SU Kraft and DCWV

Paper: Basic Grey June Bug

Sentiment: Dovecraft

Tools: Nesties, sponges and distress inks, piercing tool,
SU Heart to Heart punch and Love you much stamp set

I really love how this card turned out. It amazes me that the more simple a card is the longer it takes me to put it together. I'm always moving bits around until I'm happy with it. I think the more CAS the card is, the more perfect it needs to be as any mistake will stand out like a sore thumb!

Well, I am enjoying my days off so far. I went to see Alice in Wonderland the other night in 3D and I really enjoyed it. Which is a total surpirse as I don't usually like Tim Burton films or Helena Bonham Carter! Lol! I did some shopping yesterday and today I have some crafty time as my OH is going golfing. Then I'm off to York tomorrow with my friend, my cousin's 18th birthday party saturday night and then finally the day with my family on sunday for Mother's day and my birthday! Phew what a busy few days! And then as if that's not enough excitement next wednesday I'm off on my jollies for nearly 3 weeks! Yay!

I hope you all enjoy your weekend whatever you're up to!

Thanks for any comments you may leave, I really love to read them and see who has stopped by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

WOJ Jane's sketch!

Good morning all!

Another wednesday and that means another challenge over at Whiff Of Joy! Thanks for all your entries last week, it looks like you all enjoyed using Bev's sketch as much as I did! This week we have another sketch for you to follow, this time from the lovely Jane! Now I will admit, I did struggle a bit with this sketch, I think it's because I'm usually more of CAS girl when it comes to my LO's, but hey, it's good to challenge yourself and work outside your comfort zone!

Materials
Image: Henry Celebrating Mouse available from Whiff Of Joy. Coloured with koh-i-noors and sansodor.

Paper: Doodlebug

CS: SU Whisper white & Kraft

Sentiment: SU Circle of friendship

Tools: Nesties, sponges for distressing, MS border punch, SU Tab punch,
MS flower punch, Swiss Dots Embossing Folder

Misc: Prima Flower, Pearls and Pearl brad from stash

Well I hope you will join in with us this week, and don't forget we now have the top 3 competition, where you could be chosen as one of our top three cards of the week!

It's my last day at work today for this week. I've 4 days off after today, got the next few days to sort out some last minute things for our holiday and then it's my birthday on sunday (mothers day), so I will be spending it with my family! I am also going to York for the day with my best friend on saturday, so looking forward to that too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Totally Gorjuss!

Afternoon all!

Hope you are enjoying your weekend! Mine's just started as I have been working all weekend! What a beautiful day of sunshine we've had, and I've been stuck indoors for most of it triaging the telephone! Oh well I've only 5 more days to work bfore I head off to sunnier climes!

Today I have a gorjuss card to show you. There is a fab sketch over at 'Totally Gorguss' this week, CAS, just my thing, so I had to have a go. Plus I have been missing my Gorjuss creations of late. The blog hop we had the other week over at Sugar Nellie made me think about all the yummy gorjuss stamps I have and haven't used in ages! So I dug out this little cutie for another play! I just Luuuurve the Gorjuss images, and really have my fingers crossed that there might be some new designs soon to feed my addiction! Lol!

Materials

Image: 'Sitting' from the Gorjuss Girl collection at Sugar Nellie. Available here at Funky Kits. Coloured with koh-i-noors and sansodor.

Paper: MME Penny Lane

CS: DCWV, SU Whisper white

Sentiment: SU Vintage Labels Saleabration set

Tools: Nellie's Die Cut Frames, SU Stamp-a-mi-jig, sponges for distressing/inking edges,
SU ink pads in pixie pink & Choc Chip

Misc: Pearl from stash

Well I really enjoyed making this card and am so pleased with the final result! I am sooooo in love with these new MME Penny Lane Glitter papers, just stunningly gorgeous, so you will be seeing a lot of these over the coming posts! Lol! I'm surprised I can bear to cut them up though!

Well that's all from me today. I want to do a spot of hopping before my tea to see what you've all been up to, then I think some TV tonight. My OH is on nights so I've got control of the remote! Lol!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Elise With Love!

Morning one and all!

Well today it's friday, so that means its almost the weekend, which is not so great for me though as I have to work! Oh well, I have got some things in the next few weeks to celebrate. It's my birthday in 9 days and then in 13 days we jet off to Thailand for 2 weeks! Oh boy am I looking forward to some R&R and some sunshine!

Today I have the sweet Elise to show you again. I just love this cutie, she is my favourite out of the home grown collection so I just had to dig her out and ink her up again! I think she must be quite a few peoples favourites as well as she is kind of unofficially the face of Sugar Nellie over on their blog at the moment!

Materials

Image: Elise from the Sugar & Spice collection by Sugar Nellie. Available here from funky kits. Coloured with koh-i-noors and sansodor.

Paper: Basic Grey Two Scoops

Sentiment: SU 'Yummy' set

Tools: sponges for distressing,

Misc: Flowers and pearl brads form stash

I love this CAS LO. I took inspiration from a card I saw on Kerry's blog a while back. Thanks hun! I am entering this card into this weeks Simon Says Challenge where the theme this week is 'Mothers Day / Girly'.

That's all from me today. Got to dash of to work now. Thanks for stopping by today though and I hope you all have a great weekend, whatever you're up to!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~

Fabulous WOJ challenge card!

Good morning all! I just want to say a quick thank you to all of you who sent me get well wishes. I am 100% up and running again now, it was just a 48 hour virus thank goodness!

Well it's wednesday again already and that means we have another challenge for you over at WOJ! Thanks for all last weeks entries, it seems that we all enjoyed using Bev's sketch! So onto this weeks chalenge. We have a colour challenge for you which is Coffee and Cream. Remember there is only 1 Rule you must use a Whiff of Joy Stamp! If you are stuck for inspiration you can always check out the other DT members blogs, they have as always made some fabulous cards!

Materials
Image: From the new City Girl range available from Whiff Of Joy. Coloured with koh-i-noors and sansodor.

CS: SU Choc Chip & Kraft

Sentiment: Wood mounted from stash sorry don't know!

Tools: Nesties, sponges for distressing, SU Scalloped border punch,
Cropodile, Divine Swirls Embssing Folder

Misc: Prima Flowers, Pearl brad from stash

Now this card was quite a challenge for me as I couldn't find any papers in my stash to match this challenge (shocking I know!). So I just used my cuttlebug folder to create some patterned/textured CS. But hey that's what challenge's are all about right?!

The colours on this card look a bit insipid in this picture but I can assure you they don't look as washed out IRL! Lol!

Well thanks for stopping by today and I look forward to seeing you join us over at WOJ this week!

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Hugs, Vicky ~x~