tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47007902279290529132024-03-07T09:03:19.027-05:00Erin Taylor Designs Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.comBlogger1097125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-47868472119601872442018-12-09T22:53:00.000-05:002018-12-09T22:53:15.346-05:00Designing with Stampin' Up! | December 2018<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444;">The Stampin' Up! Holiday Catalog is full of awesome products and I have had a blast working with those products over the past few weeks. I used the <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/product/149947/making-christmas-bright-photopolymer-bundle">Making Christmas Bright Bundle</a> to create this card. How cute are these Christmas lights?! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I used the matching <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/product/147892/all-is-bright-12-x-12-30-5-x-30-5-cm-designer-series-paper">All is Bright Designer Series Paper</a> for the background, then layered Real Red and Whisper White cardstock on top. I stamped the Christmas lights with Call Me Clover ink. The stars were stamped with Call Me Clover and Real Red inks. I used silver glitter paper, also from Stampin' Up!, for the tops of the lights. This card took a couple of tries to get just right but I love how it turned out. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope everyone is busy preparing for the holidays and enjoying their December! Thanks for stopping by and have a great week. </span></div>
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<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-89067676270454661842018-07-31T00:44:00.000-04:002018-07-31T00:52:27.527-04:00Annual Vacation in Washington State | 2018<span style="color: green;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Welcome, friends! I can't believe it's been a year since my last blog post. My life has been a wee bit hectic this past year and the ol' blog took a permanent back seat. Hopefully I can make time for most posts in the coming months. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">The kids and I traveled to Washington for a quick visit earlier this month and I am thrilled with the photos I took, both at parent's house and at Mt. Rainier National Park. We stayed at a beautiful resort near the Crystal Mountain Lodge for two nights. The boys loved hiking, the fantastic onsite pool, and of course the beautiful views of Mr. Rainier. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">We also spent a lot of time with Abby and Carter. Evan and Jack are so good with their cousin and Carter adores them, too. I love this photo of the three cousins together. So sweet. </span></div>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTxWxIZQFus0G5fJM5oMzNyOlTtp9loBn-EMnB1XHDnK3-R6nufDnR9FYfVrQ3ZPSoL-PmGU-Q8SJXbWn9xGhQZzjTM9vhxLqNFcd7HDxOrrN3tWC6J72UTxyRgwC_2ossDgCTU1P5ZY/s640/IMG_0560_bw.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #444444;">Evan and I brought a huge box of toys with us for Carter and he LOVED his new Switch and Go Dinosaurs. I think they were Jack's from when Jack was 4 or 5. Carter is a huge dinosaur fan and these dinosaurs are perfect for him. Before we flew home to Washington, Carter had convinced his mom to buy him another dinosaur to add to his collection. He is so hard to say no to! </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">We had a wonderful time and the boys are already talking about our next trip to Washington. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I still have a ton of photos of edit from our trip, then I need to send them off to the printer so I can scrapbook them! I'm thinking about making a mini album, but I'm also considering making individual pages plus a digital photo book for the boys (and one for Carter) so they can look at the photos whenever they want to. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Thanks for stopping by! I promise to be back soon... much sooner than a year. :) Have a great week! </span></div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-6412509231850978082017-07-03T17:00:00.000-04:002017-07-03T17:00:05.831-04:00Designing with Stampin' Up! | July 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444;">The new Stampin' Up! catalog is here and it is gorgeous! If you haven't checked it out, you can see all the new stamp sets, dies, and papers <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/default.aspx">here</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I have a couple of sets that I love, love, love! For the card above I used the new <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=143723">Climbing Orchid</a> stamps and <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=143747">Orchid Builder dies</a>. I lifted the design from the catalog because I was anxious to put ink the paper and just wanted to make something. How gorgeous are these flowers?! The sparkle gems add a nice finishing touch. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgceAHByIR3VTZloEO1Qeh_YcoZM2uQb86oPJYbPJVJL9jbbqL_Ra6hwvcmglmPBJ1oVFCcoaQAukS8a5FaKYUNXz50mQbXdVishWCIzK5hfY8RuAAojiVO7IFA1n7QxEvVw1aApBk7VUU/s1600/IMG_2943_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgceAHByIR3VTZloEO1Qeh_YcoZM2uQb86oPJYbPJVJL9jbbqL_Ra6hwvcmglmPBJ1oVFCcoaQAukS8a5FaKYUNXz50mQbXdVishWCIzK5hfY8RuAAojiVO7IFA1n7QxEvVw1aApBk7VUU/s640/IMG_2943_edit.jpg" width="638" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">My next card uses the <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=143716">Bike Ride stamp set</a> and the <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=143729">Build a Bike die set</a>. My parents bought me a cute cruiser style bike for my birthday a few years ago and it's lime green with yellow accents, so I made this bike to match. So, so cute!! My personal bike doesn't have a basket but I had to add a basket of beautiful flowers to this bike. After I colored the flowers with Copics I added clear Wink of Stella over the top. You can find the stamps + dies bundle <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=145314">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Thanks for stopping by and I hope you like my cards! If you have any questions or need more information, please leave a comment below. </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-61487686059742015062017-07-02T23:16:00.001-04:002017-07-02T23:16:10.722-04:00Hello Summer | July 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Happy summer, friends! I The kids and I made it to Washington for our annual trip and we are enjoying the gorgeous weather here, family, friends, and cool summer nights! I can't say I miss the humidity of Florida at all... we are loving the milder temperatures and cooler evenings. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">My mom planted beautiful flowers again in her yard this year and I look forward to photographing them every summer. The flowers she can plant in Washington are so different than what I can plant in Florida and I love all the bright colors and textures. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANs0wiR-yCMZ0X97800nfGCWQT5g_INNz-vvs7x7dq70NnTf5kJ7YGs0DWwpAN9lGCKldezSjCHwfFKVk4GwmfzNQegK4HegjoASrfpl458LRZ2mq0WCddBf77e12LCrWodsNSUSQG5A/s1600/IMG_3501_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANs0wiR-yCMZ0X97800nfGCWQT5g_INNz-vvs7x7dq70NnTf5kJ7YGs0DWwpAN9lGCKldezSjCHwfFKVk4GwmfzNQegK4HegjoASrfpl458LRZ2mq0WCddBf77e12LCrWodsNSUSQG5A/s640/IMG_3501_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I have some crafty news! I created a new Instagram account strictly for my scrapbooking and card photos and projects. My new account is @erintaylor_papercrafting . I hope you will check it out! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope everyone is having a wonderful summer! I plan to be back soon with some cards or layouts... my blog has been sadly neglected the past couple of years. Hooray for blogging! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-25059704835313008022017-03-12T22:45:00.000-04:002017-03-12T22:45:23.814-04:00Designing with Stampin' Up | March 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzVKigFLNKH-c831HQdBmTQeRx0RQUVF1sb0WOeR69Z2i2m0H7eGyDKYXWHQZuzN5kZ9ihyphenhyphenjwTRGVOPmVhRKDCyD70aNZujl3a96hXT76PEareViTTK4sBkMpV4zUbA89aRo9oS7ztfI/s1600/IMG_1212_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzVKigFLNKH-c831HQdBmTQeRx0RQUVF1sb0WOeR69Z2i2m0H7eGyDKYXWHQZuzN5kZ9ihyphenhyphenjwTRGVOPmVhRKDCyD70aNZujl3a96hXT76PEareViTTK4sBkMpV4zUbA89aRo9oS7ztfI/s640/IMG_1212_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I love matching stamp and die sets, but using dies alone can also make a huge impact. I pulled out my <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=142757">Stampin' Up! Succulent Framelits Dies</a>, a few distress ink pads, and my favorite polka dot patterned paper and created a dimensional thank you card.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUCH51irRxaFNpA30gF7C4a5x8s6IeJU5i3omnYtasGpXNzt3UYVJfnJMZwxiXwS4n4LSgi9Y-mOfjTeIYHVP76fdoYVYJygb1mwSrBb1_teh5A8p66OSjE5rDHdiyPLjDN0wX6zUPOU/s1600/IMG_1213_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUCH51irRxaFNpA30gF7C4a5x8s6IeJU5i3omnYtasGpXNzt3UYVJfnJMZwxiXwS4n4LSgi9Y-mOfjTeIYHVP76fdoYVYJygb1mwSrBb1_teh5A8p66OSjE5rDHdiyPLjDN0wX6zUPOU/s640/IMG_1213_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I die cut the three large flowers from white cardstock, then used my mini distress tool to rub on two colors of ink per flower. I overlapped the colors slightly, making sure to blend them together well. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rPl8OY0i4ettCMsuSxWytHz39PJGs9aVuVAa9TxAB2KUUTJcm_WYUVd_xzj40Q-2JuaRuauPitAiWNFTrz9BUqcXQWsPEYhOS0CYCJL66C9dq1t0_kvyKUrfeXy9sypCDMdr2G_TyXE/s1600/IMG_1217_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rPl8OY0i4ettCMsuSxWytHz39PJGs9aVuVAa9TxAB2KUUTJcm_WYUVd_xzj40Q-2JuaRuauPitAiWNFTrz9BUqcXQWsPEYhOS0CYCJL66C9dq1t0_kvyKUrfeXy9sypCDMdr2G_TyXE/s640/IMG_1217_edit.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I used glue dots to adhere the three flowers together, then added a button and twine to the center. How cute is that?! I love how my big, colorful flower turned out. I added a die cut "thank you", also from white cardstock + colored with my mini distress tool, under the flower. The sentiment is from Stampin' Up's Thoughtful Branches stamp set. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfvSgflhYYgxRJ0xQD_x9XhiH1M8YuLAYbjSHHAILGDhou8WH2dxLE_r1FLfThXa92xgHcTzx2ey46doVPjWFoJITvtlm0znyfsiE5TkXMGlJR7o0NYD4XtSNN0wXkSRIaItieroOoa4/s1600/IMG_1218_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfvSgflhYYgxRJ0xQD_x9XhiH1M8YuLAYbjSHHAILGDhou8WH2dxLE_r1FLfThXa92xgHcTzx2ey46doVPjWFoJITvtlm0znyfsiE5TkXMGlJR7o0NYD4XtSNN0wXkSRIaItieroOoa4/s640/IMG_1218_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">The <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=145184">Oh So Succulent stamp + die set</a> is a must have! I have two more cards to share later this week using the stamps and dies. Thanks for stopping by and have a great week! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-57059871705752495602017-02-21T20:00:00.000-05:002017-02-21T20:00:00.230-05:00Jack | Right Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXJz89CvBSnLgbWA3d2rvoJ47XXIOSDU4oaQrPtmO8Yud-KKP5BLa4XWR1WqGsj5wcUxUTKFjIXgjs7_mk7hEzVkKIOkwYu7o6z1yI8nG-oMpXRzssGpgpjwpXMB_LpXmOBzc_EHjBLY/s1600/IMG_2247_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXJz89CvBSnLgbWA3d2rvoJ47XXIOSDU4oaQrPtmO8Yud-KKP5BLa4XWR1WqGsj5wcUxUTKFjIXgjs7_mk7hEzVkKIOkwYu7o6z1yI8nG-oMpXRzssGpgpjwpXMB_LpXmOBzc_EHjBLY/s640/IMG_2247_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Reading</b><i> </i>| the first book in the <i>Percy Jackson </i>series. Up next is book two. His reading skills have improved so much in the past year, and more importantly, he is reading for fun. He is in the top reading group in his classroom and has come so far from his "I don't need to learn to read" days (hello Kindergarten). </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Playing</b> | Playmobil, Lego, his own made up Minecraft games, Roblox on the computer, Nerf guns. He has always been a kid who loves to play, and he still loves play above everything else.</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"> <b> </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Wearing </b>| a uniform to school. At home he mostly wears joggers or track pants and a t-shirt. We also had to buy him a new sweater this year (he outgrew his previous sweater) that turned into a big argument. Jack insisted on wearing his old, too small and in need of replacement sweater, and refused to let me buy him a new one. I finally bought him a new one right before Christmas and he responded with "I guess that will do". Oy, he is a finicky kid. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Studying </b>| math, English, orthography, Spanish, science, and history. History is his favorite subject and he loved studying the ancient Greeks this past fall. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>Eating</b><i> </i>| grilled cheese sandwiches, pizza flavored fish crackers, waffles and
pancakes, milkshakes, apples, and GoGurt. His favorite food is french
fries, preferably from McDonald's. He is also a fan of the free bread at
Texas Roadhouse (but nothing else on the menu). </span> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCr-0wgh5mRplgWAFLEZ7RXo_aPjMyi35QW4lhO0LHmC7WNZ0p4CekVwMjzsZa7rmeA50CEHnrUWyD4bB533ZNeTvTnZgaIeL13Ldl0nNcrtvfEkBBXlENB9XkXJjfpVqeXNWShKPWu8I/s1600/IMG_0616_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCr-0wgh5mRplgWAFLEZ7RXo_aPjMyi35QW4lhO0LHmC7WNZ0p4CekVwMjzsZa7rmeA50CEHnrUWyD4bB533ZNeTvTnZgaIeL13Ldl0nNcrtvfEkBBXlENB9XkXJjfpVqeXNWShKPWu8I/s640/IMG_0616_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Loving </b>| beanie-boos, the color blue, playing with his neighborhood friends. Riding his bike. Learning about history in school after school snacks. Joggers and sweatpants. Asking to be tucked in before bed. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Not Loving </b>| going to school five days per week (three or four would be better), homework, cleaning his room. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Watching </b>| Dan TDM on YouTube. Pokemon cartoons on Netflix. Cat videos with his mama. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Anticipating </b>| two field trips in March (including a trip to the movie theater to see the new Beauty and the Beast movie... I won't be missing this field trip!). A sleepover at Arianna's house that has been in the works for a few weeks. Grandma and Grandpa visiting in April. His birthday party at a nearby park with his classmates. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Thriving </b>| as a second grader. He had a hard time adjusting to first grade (longer school day, more rigorous curriculum, less playtime), but he has turned the corner in second grade and I am seeing huge improvements across the board. I couldn't be more proud of my sweet Jack. </span><br />
<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-88932522338478590812017-02-21T00:54:00.001-05:002017-02-21T00:54:49.133-05:00B&N Night | Traditional Layout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJuVfx3m4Fe6cNZrtBnHk_wVaot-vmFMltvcvr3Lkeoeb4NgKuqu39N0UMK6WQPwrue39WoY6rnVF1TBkkJ0GXlHIPJK0_NcSeNPJlTBnzIHv9Oy1T7RTmCdKVW9bIK4iqQHminQcFvg/s1600/IMG_1092_edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJuVfx3m4Fe6cNZrtBnHk_wVaot-vmFMltvcvr3Lkeoeb4NgKuqu39N0UMK6WQPwrue39WoY6rnVF1TBkkJ0GXlHIPJK0_NcSeNPJlTBnzIHv9Oy1T7RTmCdKVW9bIK4iqQHminQcFvg/s640/IMG_1092_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">A
couple of weeks ago the kids and I participated in Barnes and Noble
Night in support of their school. I took a a bunch of photos of Jack
running around the store, filling out his scavenger hunt sheet, and
several of him reciting the Preamble with the rest of the 2nd grade
scholars. I picked the best four photos, printed them to 2.5 x 3.5
inches, and trimmed them keeping a white border around each photo. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt71QGOpUvrneszrCFwHmrPx9piv9KF5V4VA2v9Jc8A8JUa0wpD-_7PyI1Zh-y9vmttRcz9yO-q9McZ5b2IOMZ1sMKLecsDRl64gCFJE13sknYnxBPQeZ_8zOg57k1aF_TBbYnnSE6BkI/s1600/IMG_1089_12x12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt71QGOpUvrneszrCFwHmrPx9piv9KF5V4VA2v9Jc8A8JUa0wpD-_7PyI1Zh-y9vmttRcz9yO-q9McZ5b2IOMZ1sMKLecsDRl64gCFJE13sknYnxBPQeZ_8zOg57k1aF_TBbYnnSE6BkI/s640/IMG_1089_12x12.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I pulled out the <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/kits/74729b7a-ab85-4732-874a-056a311abc67">Studio Calico Roman Holiday scrapbook main kit</a>
for my layout. This is such a versatile kit and I used bits and pieces
from most of the embellishments, plus two pieces of patterned paper. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">My
favorite element of this layout is the adorable chipboard pencil. How
cute is that?! I added an aqua enamel heart on top and adhered it to the
bottom right corner with two other elements. The black phrase stickers
are from Ali Edwards' Read Story Kit, and the plastic stars are from the
<a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/kits/smalls">Studio Calico Smalls</a> kit. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnI_zN6CJQmd3-lXdUtGYEEA0vEIIy_mpAzRhQfSdIPqaGc8YtGlYnBZF4PaVNjILeEKm3_I6R8esR76N5LJkCFh2Yw5cwEWF2q_caYyTazwrY3S8EZbe3H28BMpde7i7caXMmTvwWZPI/s1600/IMG_1090_edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnI_zN6CJQmd3-lXdUtGYEEA0vEIIy_mpAzRhQfSdIPqaGc8YtGlYnBZF4PaVNjILeEKm3_I6R8esR76N5LJkCFh2Yw5cwEWF2q_caYyTazwrY3S8EZbe3H28BMpde7i7caXMmTvwWZPI/s640/IMG_1090_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">A few things to note:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">I
am loving white borders around my photos right now. I use a Canon Pixma
photo printer and I adjust the pictures so I have a thin (or sometimes
not-so-thin) border around the edges. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">Scrapbooking the boys' school events has
become a priority. Their school has so many wonderful programs and
activities and I want those events represented in their albums. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">In 80% of my photos, the boys are wearing their school uniforms. I need to make sure to pull out my camera <i>after </i>they have changed into street clothes... all of my photos look the same! </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">This basic grid design is super easy to replicate and works with virtually any photos (everyday, birthdays, holidays, etc.). </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #444444;">I'm
hanging out in chilly Washington this week with my family. I haven't
been able to celebrate my birthday with my parents in almost a decade,
so when my parents offered to fly me to WA for a week as an early
birthday present I jumped at the chance! My birthday is mid-March but
I'll take what I can get. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;">Have a great week! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-6891491967792230142017-01-17T22:22:00.000-05:002017-01-17T22:22:24.560-05:00Designing with Stampin' Up! | January 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xM_NltM45Wc8TNBozmob9p3MuXoXGaoXT41GyyCBZ9S15wDAxlkagpTp0J7jKoejphLZlqH_5V3Q0VW2jWsYkYHgBtI0ZS2pq_fK71gI4ryw4IcFnqJsoyb3N2pQ54K1WR9_v6kFsc4/s1600/IMG_1081_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xM_NltM45Wc8TNBozmob9p3MuXoXGaoXT41GyyCBZ9S15wDAxlkagpTp0J7jKoejphLZlqH_5V3Q0VW2jWsYkYHgBtI0ZS2pq_fK71gI4ryw4IcFnqJsoyb3N2pQ54K1WR9_v6kFsc4/s640/IMG_1081_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">The new <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/CategoryPage.aspx?categoryid=10150">Stampin' Up! occasions catalog</a> is full of beautiful stamps and dies. I received some new goodies to play with last month and I finally had a chance to sit down and play! The <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=142980">Beetles & Bugs</a> stamp set is adorable and the first set I used to create a card. Something about the perfectly symmetrical little bugs that I just love. I am <i>not</i> a bug person (at all!) but I love them as stamps! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Here are step-by-step instructions for completing this card:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">1. Create the stamped background using four cute little bugs (outlines only... no solid stamps or detail images). I used four ink colors (navy, lime green, aqua, and orange) and used one stamp per ink color. I started at the bottom right and stamped my way up to the top left. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">2. After the background is finished, ink the edges using a mini distress tool or makeup sponge and lime green ink. I used small, sweeping circular movements to keep the ink light and avoid swirl marks. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;">3. Die cut aqua cardstock from the middle Framelits - Labels Collection die. The Labels set is currently unavailable, but <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=138281">this set</a> is similar! Trim the edge off the aqua cardstock and adhere it to the card front. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;">4. Trim a piece of vellum to 1 1/4 inches by 6 inches. Stamp sentiment with VersaMark and sprinkle on embossing powder. Heat set, then wrap around card front (centering sentiment on aqua label) and adhere. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;">5. Wrap black and white twine around card. Adhere enamel dots above and below sentiment. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCDb-J4Nz9q5oDEXtDp4YO_TtHqddMQGgtUQdpAC5OPH3RTxQSPK-jrTpOy5Ys3hkknqJovPDnfvvQsMRqkyrhlJ8jL-3aaxF3lforC7c2RPJn6lQaB6YdpucxH4Q8ChSkcnbxuZJ8C8/s1600/IMG_1075_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCDb-J4Nz9q5oDEXtDp4YO_TtHqddMQGgtUQdpAC5OPH3RTxQSPK-jrTpOy5Ys3hkknqJovPDnfvvQsMRqkyrhlJ8jL-3aaxF3lforC7c2RPJn6lQaB6YdpucxH4Q8ChSkcnbxuZJ8C8/s640/IMG_1075_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">The products in the Occasions catalog are available until May 31, 2017. I'll be back with more projects using this stamp set and several more cute stamp and die sets. Thanks for stopping by! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-16757559061915868472017-01-03T05:00:00.000-05:002017-01-03T05:00:22.401-05:00Evan | Right Now <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxksLwvMxLkB4dyLnJknY3Rs4r8CAbP0fDK9NxLkKd1Eulc1l8scH2rO8Hj04gmlBt25hyoBE7f1zbiB3v1bdNDrhg6UQQrM0ptamg-37-_2M27EC9WCzkFDrLazdcXiWtr_cgStQiXWE/s1600/IMG_0055_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxksLwvMxLkB4dyLnJknY3Rs4r8CAbP0fDK9NxLkKd1Eulc1l8scH2rO8Hj04gmlBt25hyoBE7f1zbiB3v1bdNDrhg6UQQrM0ptamg-37-_2M27EC9WCzkFDrLazdcXiWtr_cgStQiXWE/s640/IMG_0055_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #444444;">Reading </span></b><span style="color: #444444;">| so many wonderful books at school and he just finished the <i>Harry Potter </i>series at home. He received <i>Harry Potter and the Cursed Child </i>for Christmas and read it in two days. This kid is a super fast reader and flies through books almost as fast as I can buy them. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Playing </b>| soccer, football outside with his friends, board games and card games, Roblox on the computer, and occasionally Legos. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Wearing </b>| a uniform to school, with little complaint. This kid is not too picky about his clothes, although he prefers basketball type shorts and t-shirts to long pants and long sleeved shirts. He doesn't like wearing bulky or heavy clothing at all and hates wearing a jacket, even in cold temps. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Studying </b>| math, history, English, science, and Latin. He is doing really well in school and made the A/B honor roll for the second year in a row. PCCA has a much more difficult curriculum that he has adapted to beautifully. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Loving </b>| his friends and play dates. This past year he has made some new friends in our neighborhood, plus he has buddies on his soccer team that he likes to hang out with. Friends are extremely important to him at this stage in his life. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Not Loving </b>| rice, the color pink, waking up early, brushing his teeth, and sharing the computer. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Watching </b>| mostly YouTube and videos of people playing video games. I must admit I don't understand the appeal of watching other people play video games <i>(why not play them yourself?)</i>, but he loves it. He doesn't watch any TV shows except sports (Seahawks, WSU football, and baseball). </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Anticipating </b>| his birthday and birthday party. He has already decided to have his party at the Field of Dream park with his school friends and his soccer friends. This park has so much for the kids to do and will be the perfect place to throw a birthday party. It should be a great day for him. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>Thriving </b>| at school and home. Yes, there have been some bumps in the road and yes, we are dealing with some preteen/tween angst, but I've seen my sweet, loving 10 year old during winter vacation, and I love it. </span></div>
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<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-76302147864449633432017-01-02T19:26:00.002-05:002017-01-02T19:26:35.015-05:00Designing with Papertrey Ink | Color Pop Butterflies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0rb1kVmuiCqpjQGla2CQUy9v_yXw9p1LG_ttC9fUnshvFa0vpdjESEtHg6613FpPJyAzrx9uc61Ns7QMRGE5UQWC1KWoauE74aZsxexD8KeSjs8g2YFO0nziWtHi3tuOtFaYYA4nlts/s1600/IMG_1071_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0rb1kVmuiCqpjQGla2CQUy9v_yXw9p1LG_ttC9fUnshvFa0vpdjESEtHg6613FpPJyAzrx9uc61Ns7QMRGE5UQWC1KWoauE74aZsxexD8KeSjs8g2YFO0nziWtHi3tuOtFaYYA4nlts/s640/IMG_1071_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Hello there and Happy New Year! The boys and I are in Washington for the holiday which means I get to play in my mom's stamp room. Yay! She has a wonderful collection of supplies that differs from mine, including the adorable Papertrey Ink Stamp set: <a href="https://www.papertreyink.com/stamps/make-it-market-mini-kit-color-pop-butterflies/">Color Pop Butterflies</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">This kit is so much fun because it includes matching paper and stencils to go along with the stamp set and dies. I used the gray background paper and created my own colorful butterflies using various Tim Holtz distress inks and a mini distress tool. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">The "so happy" die was die cut from Stampin' Ups Pacific Point textured cardstock three times and glued together (carefully!). I popped up a butterfly and added three gems to the center, and sprinkled some enamel dots above and below the sentiment. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgA7deAyMbY-Ya51mD43XBiLum6KJ6nJOto3WNrjHgWgp6YxMlupnSigyABgnajxQSiT-lHS-UGXiKjCEhD70RAJQTWGR_u1nnH6ID6YuySdj2VGOCbW7a5l0nR-73AviseC_pBIHI98/s1600/IMG_1067_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgA7deAyMbY-Ya51mD43XBiLum6KJ6nJOto3WNrjHgWgp6YxMlupnSigyABgnajxQSiT-lHS-UGXiKjCEhD70RAJQTWGR_u1nnH6ID6YuySdj2VGOCbW7a5l0nR-73AviseC_pBIHI98/s640/IMG_1067_edit.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope you enjoy my card! I have added Color Pop Butterflies to my wish list because of how versatile the stamps and dies are. I also plan to use more stencils in the coming year... they are so much fun to use! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Have a great week and I'll be back soon! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-74809369471277588322016-11-07T23:03:00.000-05:002016-11-07T23:03:10.784-05:00Retro Sketches | Challenge #239<span style="color: #444444;">This week's <a href="http://retrosketches.blogspot.com/2016/11/retrosketches-239.html">Retro Sketches Challenge</a> is up and it's a good one! The sketch is based on one of<a href="http://erintaylor718.blogspot.com/2014/11/colourq-challenge-269.html"> my previous cards</a>: </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_lAbF2gzBytnt40ItJ8nmfhCklSCx0UH9zIyWEtUpTdGmX9X9tFG6U63qchKXnn_xe-7tl8-vNr3ey4pYcqnL3pkPBs84FDO6Pl7OtmUxFLb8fX1NTGPb9EwMw2NZvp71nVuWdRryVM/s1600/rs239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_lAbF2gzBytnt40ItJ8nmfhCklSCx0UH9zIyWEtUpTdGmX9X9tFG6U63qchKXnn_xe-7tl8-vNr3ey4pYcqnL3pkPBs84FDO6Pl7OtmUxFLb8fX1NTGPb9EwMw2NZvp71nVuWdRryVM/s320/rs239.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">To create a new version of this card I pulled out one of my favorite Stampin' Up! stamp sets: Secret Garden. Oh, how I love this set. It has both solid and outline images, and I have made several lovely cards with it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I started by choosing my color scheme. I used two pieces of retired Stampin' Up! designer series paper and matched cardstock and ink colors to those patterns. The light pink flower is stamped with Melon Mambo, the dark purple is Rich Razzleberry, and the leaves were stamped with Crushed Curry. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I found matching buttons from an old (old, <i>old</i>) bag of Autumn Leaves buttons, and the enamel dots are from My Mind's Eye. The sequins are from my stash. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEndsinAslrNLz0CvxaVlHRTTYRtWBN8vgmVLYbp_vamfLQ7A0s6DLaQIZsu2Bnjljydvyi5OPpqXIvl4TugozgVtisOmMnqiVsSCCHy8Ke19uS0BWT_PajRk82SZ_Or83SmVcRd4i2Fc/s1600/IMG_0213_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEndsinAslrNLz0CvxaVlHRTTYRtWBN8vgmVLYbp_vamfLQ7A0s6DLaQIZsu2Bnjljydvyi5OPpqXIvl4TugozgVtisOmMnqiVsSCCHy8Ke19uS0BWT_PajRk82SZ_Or83SmVcRd4i2Fc/s640/IMG_0213_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">One of my favorite things about this card is that I used products from my stash that are several years old. Great floral sets never go out of style, and the matching dies make this set even more versatile. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope you can play along with us this week! You can find more inspiration on the Retro Sketches blog <a href="http://retrosketches.blogspot.com/2016/11/retrosketches-239.html">here</a>. </span></div>
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Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-13977160806744627872016-11-04T16:00:00.000-04:002016-11-04T16:00:44.593-04:00Designing with Stampin' Up! | Christmas Shaker Card<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGmfgA-oZnzkM9j4Rz0DKzSaq_uoy-7rQ3udFK-yKVoUVmHuTZWAUYcammy-zZihrcZJxiBK-WYeIi4ha3B9lFDXI7Op9Q6PuoBMkXa6L8oOM-UUdYmPLbYp80AqRnHZy8A0wu144Ot4/s1600/IMG_0147_Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGmfgA-oZnzkM9j4Rz0DKzSaq_uoy-7rQ3udFK-yKVoUVmHuTZWAUYcammy-zZihrcZJxiBK-WYeIi4ha3B9lFDXI7Op9Q6PuoBMkXa6L8oOM-UUdYmPLbYp80AqRnHZy8A0wu144Ot4/s640/IMG_0147_Edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Happy Friday, friends! I hope everyone is having a nice week. I have been busily working on Christmas cards, Christmas shopping (I <i>love </i>shopping for the boys!), and working on my December Daily album. Fall is my favorite time of year! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Stampin' Up! has a ton of cute (and versatile!) stamps and dies in the Holiday catalog, and they just released a new die set called <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=145372">Stitched Shapes Framelits Dies</a>. I used the dies to create a fun shaker card, sandwiching a piece of acetate in between stitched circles and foam tape. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Start by stamping the sentiment onto white cardstock with Emerald Envy ink and Stampin' Up's <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ecweb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=140386">Oh, What Fun</a> stamp set. Next, die cut two red circles using two stitched circles dies. Adhere a red circle to the card base, making sure to center the sentiment. Die cut a pie of foam tape with the same circles and adhere to the top of the red circle. Sprinkle sequins in the center of the circles, and adhere a piece of clear acetate on top of the foam tape. Finally add adhesive to the back of the second red stitched circle and place on top of the acetate layer. I also tucked in a tag to the top of the ornament so it can "hang" from the card. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOemXgtSjyQppOXA9oYbmysz8EUNgDf7ZBYpVmb4JIJ5_cY9hFsWf2VFJkJR76krHGD_6dGtj4W1y8_O8zeXM9b3spTyip3sdkr1tqYvE2WDE3otWw3sCndyAmHmnDi_v8S01v6anILA/s1600/IMG_0144_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOemXgtSjyQppOXA9oYbmysz8EUNgDf7ZBYpVmb4JIJ5_cY9hFsWf2VFJkJR76krHGD_6dGtj4W1y8_O8zeXM9b3spTyip3sdkr1tqYvE2WDE3otWw3sCndyAmHmnDi_v8S01v6anILA/s640/IMG_0144_edit.jpg" width="586" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Make sure to check out some of the matching stamp sets that are on sale this month, too! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">It's barely November and I've already made a ton of Christmas cards. This may be the first year that I have all my cards made by December 1st! I'm never this on top of things but it's a really great feelings. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Have a wonderful weekend and thanks for stopping by! </span></div>
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Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-45312116505747658432016-11-03T20:00:00.000-04:002016-11-03T20:00:05.102-04:00In Bloom | 2016 Photography Project <span style="color: #444444;">One of my personal goals this year is to grow as a photographer. Photography has been a passion of mine for the past 10+ years and I am proud of many of the photos I've taken, especially of my boys. When they are grown and gone, I will have a cache of photos to remember their childhoods. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">However, photography is not a hobby that can be mastered. You can continually grow and learn, practicing new techniques along the way. This year I am making a point of photographing foliage, tree, flowers, and nature. Steve and I have taken several walks/hikes this year, photographing nature during each trip. I also practiced my skills while the kids and I were in Washington in June/July. My Uncle's church has a lovely garden, tended by a master gardener. I could have spent hours photographing the flowers! </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGlPDJQXocqmxH-5FtmmadwBAjXdN_Kg9cwW2LonikSDLciLey7JKtuP9Kf5k4o_DOr1naQ_i1Gc-eBgh3Jub4W83Q5BaxmNtvmLbLh9LUBrCriiRzRg2SVzigPyA2F5O_D03zK3W7jU/s1600/IMG_1882_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGlPDJQXocqmxH-5FtmmadwBAjXdN_Kg9cwW2LonikSDLciLey7JKtuP9Kf5k4o_DOr1naQ_i1Gc-eBgh3Jub4W83Q5BaxmNtvmLbLh9LUBrCriiRzRg2SVzigPyA2F5O_D03zK3W7jU/s640/IMG_1882_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I have some thoughts on what I'm going to do with these photos. I might print them as 4 x 6 photos and create a photo collage with white frames and hang it in my living room. I also think a miniBook of all flower/foliage photos would be cool. So many possibilities! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaW9mcnfsy3RoHwzXpcSzREFLSQTDJ9IjzmEWYwDzo8nkckcLwzkr7cQELP5j-ZQjwuHFYqUdfhM2XmMOYJvu0KNZzP_o6Mmi39GrnIhJpL55PxGXbqOtfqXeNFQ8YPcNQ0M1wcmQH7pQ/s1600/IMG_1884_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaW9mcnfsy3RoHwzXpcSzREFLSQTDJ9IjzmEWYwDzo8nkckcLwzkr7cQELP5j-ZQjwuHFYqUdfhM2XmMOYJvu0KNZzP_o6Mmi39GrnIhJpL55PxGXbqOtfqXeNFQ8YPcNQ0M1wcmQH7pQ/s640/IMG_1884_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">These first five photos were taken at the FIT (Florida Institute of Technology) Botanical Gardens. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkrJbZtRKsW7qdyrJMySvqBNldswxPSP8oTQzxzNlJAJYFa0x1p_ftgokZsWQQHs9H0wfsA89iOjdOsrNQAHoryrPPc1-ZoJWOXQp6Zh41OOoRDyx2opC3SXin7DbJEufwm-KpzlWQDo/s1600/IMG_1905_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkrJbZtRKsW7qdyrJMySvqBNldswxPSP8oTQzxzNlJAJYFa0x1p_ftgokZsWQQHs9H0wfsA89iOjdOsrNQAHoryrPPc1-ZoJWOXQp6Zh41OOoRDyx2opC3SXin7DbJEufwm-KpzlWQDo/s640/IMG_1905_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">My love of palm trees extends to cool palm fronds. The light bouncing off the palm fronds in this photo is awesome. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkr-OvJJyqYAo6ASxq96cHn6bw5Kw6ADyAxThRIeLl49kdJfYO0uoIld0WxANH_VCM_jDam7brX6qGIC_ClrTlvmMZhsVG-LpXXDlkCu0MU1dHLKmUltQzXxTbkUmGDGcZ1fNjTNhySls/s1600/IMG_1908_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkr-OvJJyqYAo6ASxq96cHn6bw5Kw6ADyAxThRIeLl49kdJfYO0uoIld0WxANH_VCM_jDam7brX6qGIC_ClrTlvmMZhsVG-LpXXDlkCu0MU1dHLKmUltQzXxTbkUmGDGcZ1fNjTNhySls/s640/IMG_1908_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I really wanted to photograph the butterflies flying around the botanical gardens but they were stubborn little buggers. I did get some nice shots of flowers and palm trees, though. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxnKzZir1Rw35yXRCl67B2YbiS3P_gVHS0Yim8obyHhosvTiZbeJY3W4htGruPp4PXVdKwM6EAQq8KSfzORj_H7VHCL0BTih4HLpdtov7n3sozDpEiowzKcqRGMknxMh5kd6YbLfS2qfM/s1600/IMG_1551_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxnKzZir1Rw35yXRCl67B2YbiS3P_gVHS0Yim8obyHhosvTiZbeJY3W4htGruPp4PXVdKwM6EAQq8KSfzORj_H7VHCL0BTih4HLpdtov7n3sozDpEiowzKcqRGMknxMh5kd6YbLfS2qfM/s640/IMG_1551_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Flamingo Gardens in Davie, FL has the most amazing Desert Rose bush. Gorgeous hot pink flowers with almost white branches. So pretty. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8AhWR64pr1zFBWdPxxuwtuV9U_NwCKjgjRfgCthUHcwJGIpooQrPjsOOnLNKW_cxZ5WCLrNLp-kmYSfZabZLRHki4arrw9-Anx_grODpGD74j_deSbFrE-NQTXCVBW4Cf0B9ZKy-xTWU/s1600/IMG_1580_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8AhWR64pr1zFBWdPxxuwtuV9U_NwCKjgjRfgCthUHcwJGIpooQrPjsOOnLNKW_cxZ5WCLrNLp-kmYSfZabZLRHki4arrw9-Anx_grODpGD74j_deSbFrE-NQTXCVBW4Cf0B9ZKy-xTWU/s640/IMG_1580_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">During one of our walks through Turkey Creek, in Palm Bay, I captured this shot. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPHiZnO3waaiSF90oeNZ75-sdDxVxx-zC4rGCxzEbwsObtynuoxHaKP90RRE1QvHg0EojQ8_OJ2TycjN8voQckiUsSC0GhcMow5TvsMTyd_pRMA6OZVP-tpQNCNYqehb16p6V1Oac5MrM/s1600/IMG_1138_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPHiZnO3waaiSF90oeNZ75-sdDxVxx-zC4rGCxzEbwsObtynuoxHaKP90RRE1QvHg0EojQ8_OJ2TycjN8voQckiUsSC0GhcMow5TvsMTyd_pRMA6OZVP-tpQNCNYqehb16p6V1Oac5MrM/s640/IMG_1138_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">My mom planted some beautiful potted flowers on her deck this summer. I especially like this one. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzaZscIgA7q9nzm5mXjvQLtAGOxiZbEMgoyRYMuXtIheZQl6MMUmCgI1hjhioDte_gtb88m7vSRA_fXJgj2kSMwTj52eNfrqpnIbkEsva1tHRFE8et1gxgctKQzUjkAIRrWUkMt2u7Mc/s1600/IMG_0030_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzaZscIgA7q9nzm5mXjvQLtAGOxiZbEMgoyRYMuXtIheZQl6MMUmCgI1hjhioDte_gtb88m7vSRA_fXJgj2kSMwTj52eNfrqpnIbkEsva1tHRFE8et1gxgctKQzUjkAIRrWUkMt2u7Mc/s640/IMG_0030_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Another flower from my mom's yard. The yellow is striking against the green leaves. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRxLeLe3ir8V1IaT58UZ17rg96jcnYnpsVxSTSOpF4Jh9zkMB8Jnn8gp7ggIpLVa9PUjNNHrAJH-hL660TuzfmhonETc0SDb_Rmd4FfNIj0hgCYavAiO-0NP9vMy5D9fa_Abbre7FWtrU/s1600/IMG_0037_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRxLeLe3ir8V1IaT58UZ17rg96jcnYnpsVxSTSOpF4Jh9zkMB8Jnn8gp7ggIpLVa9PUjNNHrAJH-hL660TuzfmhonETc0SDb_Rmd4FfNIj0hgCYavAiO-0NP9vMy5D9fa_Abbre7FWtrU/s640/IMG_0037_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">My parents took us to Seattle for a few days in June and we stopped off at the Pacific Science Center. I took this photo while we were in the butterfly gardens. The boys were being entertained outside by Grandpa. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMXZrs-mcx61DE1cDtseAZvEXu1F2ShSm_Px2FiCuXOG-WRXaInw7zJ3mUcVwYOdCQQVj7gh-VNzw9SgIl7K5PDVs5OsHAu7vTTSHek_H8DGgVhBa478B2riVIrZbSFXCe5YCD_sOmow/s1600/IMG_0415_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMXZrs-mcx61DE1cDtseAZvEXu1F2ShSm_Px2FiCuXOG-WRXaInw7zJ3mUcVwYOdCQQVj7gh-VNzw9SgIl7K5PDVs5OsHAu7vTTSHek_H8DGgVhBa478B2riVIrZbSFXCe5YCD_sOmow/s640/IMG_0415_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">The gardens at my uncle's church, in Vancouver, WA, are really spectacular. I plan on framing this photo. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGywaMxqyn9sUY0R4cIfD27Nm92HvLDEI5965l3KBxdCwfk1CpZuegnvuUGBzmXVUQHvqWm83V8waH6f3lzIljhHAchSjZZRPMOIMvULAWjc-8dzCp3dL1Gpmz0ByGwrW0ngYux1KHUyQ/s1600/IMG_0597_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGywaMxqyn9sUY0R4cIfD27Nm92HvLDEI5965l3KBxdCwfk1CpZuegnvuUGBzmXVUQHvqWm83V8waH6f3lzIljhHAchSjZZRPMOIMvULAWjc-8dzCp3dL1Gpmz0ByGwrW0ngYux1KHUyQ/s640/IMG_0597_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">So many varieties of flowers, most of them I can't name, but so beautiful. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPGTLYyOYitSQ3rzGWO9FRFVienAJkjgha0A0NZ3-7I_By6EY5979EtDVV3axYXp9bnE_uq65_VVecEQTS4sQZLgIFnj-SOhg2ZgDYPUCMHhfwb_l3jOVI4A8q5OPL_TjPqnYW-V8EjI/s1600/IMG_0601_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPGTLYyOYitSQ3rzGWO9FRFVienAJkjgha0A0NZ3-7I_By6EY5979EtDVV3axYXp9bnE_uq65_VVecEQTS4sQZLgIFnj-SOhg2ZgDYPUCMHhfwb_l3jOVI4A8q5OPL_TjPqnYW-V8EjI/s640/IMG_0601_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Another shot from my mom's garden. Her lavender plant is huge, and absolutely gorgeous. I used my 85mm 1.8 for this shot and I am super impressed with the detail it captured on the flowers. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJl2iEN0fiI6HGt6AVhyphenhyphenroLkP0uFlSOJewlGhaSwuxIfs-xrZVWOgP7vx6X5_DRJtWx5DIQdDiJu0l5xWxalNKzutxhmdhmDV7CGcat2guSqKnF-8aC89AJTYu6AJm2kReE7CNrycD6uA/s1600/IMG_0933_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJl2iEN0fiI6HGt6AVhyphenhyphenroLkP0uFlSOJewlGhaSwuxIfs-xrZVWOgP7vx6X5_DRJtWx5DIQdDiJu0l5xWxalNKzutxhmdhmDV7CGcat2guSqKnF-8aC89AJTYu6AJm2kReE7CNrycD6uA/s640/IMG_0933_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">What about you? Are you working on any photography projects right now? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">The new edition of Click magazine landed in my mailbox yesterday and I must say, it is beautiful. I had forgotten how much I love getting magazines in the mail! I devoured this issue and can't wait for the next issue to arrive. I highly recommend subscribing if you're a photography buff! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.clickinmoms.com/click/">Click Magazine</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Have a great week! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-52372577373691834332016-11-02T20:59:00.000-04:002016-11-02T20:59:10.530-04:00Designing with Stampin' Up! | November 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1arg9Gnvip7di5qAfN9tQNzhP8qdq8k6wvNrrjcD_US_eJP7veKx7rx_xNzpi5Ds_oe9XH0Avs1L_py6tfgMtllShGK1Ce-J5MCqtKjvOEZqp4i0dd5hm5gZagGcp2d6t5x9Z1zjAHs/s1600/IMG_0150_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1arg9Gnvip7di5qAfN9tQNzhP8qdq8k6wvNrrjcD_US_eJP7veKx7rx_xNzpi5Ds_oe9XH0Avs1L_py6tfgMtllShGK1Ce-J5MCqtKjvOEZqp4i0dd5hm5gZagGcp2d6t5x9Z1zjAHs/s640/IMG_0150_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">The <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=142049">Christmas Pines</a> stamp and die set from Stampin' Up! is so much fun to work with! I <i>love </i>the fern dies and how they look layered on a card front. So pretty! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">For this card, I used the Christmas Pines stamp and die set, along with the Presents and Pinecones designer series paper. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I started by stamping the frame and sentiment onto white cardstock. </span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;">I stamped the red frame with Stampin' Up's Cherry Cobbler ink pad and the sentiment with black ink. Then, I trimmed a piece of Presents and Pinecones patterned paper for the top of the card, and a piece of silver glitter paper for the bottom.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf53eQ7M_oFqFka905PjTCXFPeMZUAz5TyRRN2mZmS6B-1WFkDgZRekP60FZPmknIY8e7TW5cGLPvDV2AUgY7Rpp5ATqRxS4EatUztAx-kubfqCGh6HtdvW-_e0luvVkKUPeahVP0AyLQ/s1600/IMG_0149_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf53eQ7M_oFqFka905PjTCXFPeMZUAz5TyRRN2mZmS6B-1WFkDgZRekP60FZPmknIY8e7TW5cGLPvDV2AUgY7Rpp5ATqRxS4EatUztAx-kubfqCGh6HtdvW-_e0luvVkKUPeahVP0AyLQ/s640/IMG_0149_edit.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;">For the cluster of elements on the left, I die cut the leaves from Emerald Envy cardstock and a pinecone from white cardstock. I die cut the bow from Cherry Cobbler cardstock, then adhered them with foam adhesive. I die cut Cherry Cobbler cardstock with a scalloped border die from Papertrey Ink. Then I added enamel dots (from My Mind's Eye). </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;">You can check out all the Stampin' Up! products on the Stampin' Up! website: www.stampinup.com</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;"> Check back soon for a card using the new Stitched Shapes Framelits Dies! Have a good week. </span></span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-25859096125724984122016-10-09T02:21:00.001-04:002016-10-09T02:24:22.023-04:00Designing with Stampin' Up! | October 2016<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;">I received another box of awesome new supplies from Stampin' Up! earlier this month and I am finally getting around to blogging about them! For those of you who follow me on Instagram, these cards were posted a couple of weeks ago. I'm pretty good about creating cards and photographing them, but I've been slacking in the blogging department. Sigh. One of these days I'll have more time for this wonderful crafty hobby of mine! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Until then, here are the first three cards I created with my new box of supplies. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">First up is a fall card using the gorgeous new <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=143515">Paisleys and Posies</a> stamp and die set. I <b>love </b>how this turned out. I used the matching <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=142017">designer series paper</a> (the specialty paper is gorgeous!) plus an older cream colored flower cabochon from my stash. It is made by Stampin' Up!... from 2012 or 2013, maybe? I also used matching twine and pearls. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I created the stamped background first by stamping some of the paisley images with Delightful Dijon ink. The sentiment was stamped with Rich Razzleberry ink. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bm_C3t8Kes-5kZrnoDDYciS7ywEzQNdK0vr1lRFE50CD5z82EbUsCUyR9MOeKIEB9Ro1Pk7FTh1paeJRWFuhxsEHi-_kJ0ibGlGVX0g-IPJ48KhHMGxYLq1E_MTCl3UzlEVLCThTPoM/s1600/IMG_2043_edit_5x5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bm_C3t8Kes-5kZrnoDDYciS7ywEzQNdK0vr1lRFE50CD5z82EbUsCUyR9MOeKIEB9Ro1Pk7FTh1paeJRWFuhxsEHi-_kJ0ibGlGVX0g-IPJ48KhHMGxYLq1E_MTCl3UzlEVLCThTPoM/s640/IMG_2043_edit_5x5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Up next I have a card using the <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ItemList.aspx?categoryid=11017">Christmas Pines</a> stamp set and matching dies. Yes, I even inked the edges of my card! I usually shy away from the grungy/distressed look, but the vanilla background needed a little something. I used a Time Holtz distress ink and my ink blending tool. I think the distress ink I used was antique linen. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I die cut the pine-cones from metallic gold paper and used gold glitter paper (another older Stampin' Up! product) as a border between the red and cream papers. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbS8c3leO1WAlQmt3mkrp9hzHGUeEwujCnpQU0PbkeQJNKMIU9Jj9L6JK_aXytkozbuUlUlk1YfAh138rtq2sfuCJl0jtxyPYqnW-plpYJMx5kZnHE1CAb62A8rmP1vsqMHGqCDurxOPY/s1600/IMG_2046_edit_5x5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbS8c3leO1WAlQmt3mkrp9hzHGUeEwujCnpQU0PbkeQJNKMIU9Jj9L6JK_aXytkozbuUlUlk1YfAh138rtq2sfuCJl0jtxyPYqnW-plpYJMx5kZnHE1CAb62A8rmP1vsqMHGqCDurxOPY/s640/IMG_2046_edit_5x5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">The last card I made uses the adorable <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=143512">Hang Your Stocking</a> stamp and die set. This <a href="https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=141986">striped paper</a> might be my favorite holiday patterned paper ever. The red/green/mint colors are perfect for holiday cards! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I stamped the stocking with Stampin' Up! Emerald Envy ink and added a die cut bow from Cherry Cobbler. The silver glitter tape and twine are both from my stash. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY9vB_iXErW1IXSmWEJ_ilYc6BtDp2d9mroHeucrnVRM-sU3rpZA9sgFB9gjf5AbdQMpW1AFTWXmg0ybqq-M3nVwWt-xAgmeqaLXZTh0sD-0hBx-WG79wfUU9iHAQ4IHn7A2ags0HOh4/s1600/IMG_2048_edit_5x5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY9vB_iXErW1IXSmWEJ_ilYc6BtDp2d9mroHeucrnVRM-sU3rpZA9sgFB9gjf5AbdQMpW1AFTWXmg0ybqq-M3nVwWt-xAgmeqaLXZTh0sD-0hBx-WG79wfUU9iHAQ4IHn7A2ags0HOh4/s640/IMG_2048_edit_5x5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;">Have you gotten a jump on your Christmas/holiday cards yet? I'm making progress! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope you're having a great weekend and check back soon for more card inspiration! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-10018488071998145552016-08-24T12:41:00.001-04:002016-10-09T02:22:03.828-04:00Designing with Stampin' Up! | August 2016<br />
<span style="color: #444444;">Hello there! Once again I fell off the blogging bandwagon when summer hit. Those ten weeks flew by in a flurry of trips to the pool, camps, cross country vacations, and a certain new man in my life. Yes, life has been crazy hectic but I have made cardmaking/scrapbooking a priority during the month of August. I recently received a box of Stampin' Up! products to play with and I must say I <b>love </b>what I came up with. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">First up is a card I created with the lovely <a href="http://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=142342">Jar of Love</a> stamp set. I have several mason jar stamp sets but this one is unique because it comes with three sizes of jars, jar lids, plus a ton of cute flowers, fish, and other items to stamp inside (and outside) of the jars. It really is a complete stamp set and makes creating fast cards a breeze. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOKk3LL2A794LZmrQ_l8rdTEi0OMfOgOkq6UjhkpC9q-_mBFz5g16Ie-zF1F4GSK0qJRZdAaNXbXnOsUwA-PoX-Mubxs74QwsB-cTpTaEFcLiT5kMg8VRFK5Xx_SJqXl8KKjgDjJ4VAX8/s1600/IMG_1772_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOKk3LL2A794LZmrQ_l8rdTEi0OMfOgOkq6UjhkpC9q-_mBFz5g16Ie-zF1F4GSK0qJRZdAaNXbXnOsUwA-PoX-Mubxs74QwsB-cTpTaEFcLiT5kMg8VRFK5Xx_SJqXl8KKjgDjJ4VAX8/s640/IMG_1772_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Stampin' Up! has a limited edition stamp set available this month named <a href="http://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=144328&utm_source=olo&utm_medium=main-ad&utm_campaign=new-olo-homepage">Thoughtful Branches</a>. I wanted to create a clean and simple card using the gorgeous tree stamps and dies (and a sentiment, too), and ended up using this stamp set exclusively. Thoughtful Branches is available until August 31st (or until supplies last). </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">My collection of woodland creature stamp sets is embarrassingly large, but who can resist a cute little fox sitting on a tree stump? Definitely not me. The <a href="http://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=142326">Foxy Friends</a> stamp and punch set is a must have for animal lovers like me. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I used a grad background for my card, breaking the card into three quadrants. I used white cardstock and two pieces of patterned paper, then used foam adhesive to adhere the tag. I used dimensional adhesive to add the cardstock fox on top. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I'll have another card or two to post in the coming week. Thanks for stopping by and have a great week! </span><br />
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Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-1862785834368845832016-05-13T00:45:00.000-04:002016-05-13T00:45:36.470-04:00Week in the Life | Wednesday<span style="color: #444444;">Wednesday was not a day I was scheduled to work and it was also an early release day, so I didn't have much planned. The end of the school year is so busy for the kids, and I finished up my spring semester last Friday. We were all looking forward to a day of relaxing, watching (or, as it turned out, listening) to the Mariners, and hanging out as a family. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">A few thoughts about today: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">My DSLR is working again and the more I work on this project, the happier I am when I pull out my "big camera" vs. my cell phone. Don't get me wrong, cell phone photos are fine, but there really isn't a comparison when I take shots with my DSLR. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">I need to get into more photos! I am terrible at this and my goal for Friday is to be in at least five photos. We'll see how that goes. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">I'm not sure how many photos I'm going to have at the end of this project, but I'm aiming for 15-20 "good" photos per day. Wednesday and Thursday I won't hit that number, but I'll be close. Hopefully Friday, Saturday, and Sunday I can be more intentional with my photo taking. </span></li>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I woke up to Bailey taking up half the bed, per usual. She is a mama's girl and loves to cuddle with me in the morning before I go wake the kids up for school. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Out the door around 7:40am to get the kids to school by 7:55am. The boys sometimes take cereal or a bagel for breakfast and usually finish eating it in the car. It makes for a messy car (see the fruit loops on the floor of my van?!), but they like having something to munch on while we drive and listen to music. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Home from school and both boys plunked themselves in front of the television for some Xbox time. They played Minecraft and Sims and only argued a couple of times. It was a blissful hour and gave me time to work on a few projects of my own. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">A little drumming before chores. Lilly, who was asleep on the couch at the time, was not happy that Jack pulled out his drumsticks and started playing. She quickly fled to the laundry room, looking annoyed. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Evan has been pretty good about doing his chores after school with minimal complaints. He unloads the dishwasher, takes care of the litter box, and takes out the garbage for me. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfIFNvRvoDHBl4iGAjMiHDyzVgo1gy1wZ5nvxN7OXl9cfu4DgTP_188Zy4uEFapSTprn66QYynHOJD2md3FjSIt2JGfEuNy1lALliUC1K_k9HOF4XpRC3OFsVJ3t3PmRWgirFFrRyxuik/s1600/IMG_0543_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfIFNvRvoDHBl4iGAjMiHDyzVgo1gy1wZ5nvxN7OXl9cfu4DgTP_188Zy4uEFapSTprn66QYynHOJD2md3FjSIt2JGfEuNy1lALliUC1K_k9HOF4XpRC3OFsVJ3t3PmRWgirFFrRyxuik/s640/IMG_0543_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="color: #444444;"> Jack helped his brother out by taking a bag of trash out to the garbage. Wearing one sock?! I'm sure there was a good reason for him to be missing a sock but I have no idea what that reason is. Goofy kid. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Both Evan and Jack love the books they picked out at the book fair and have spent a good deal of time reading over the past few days. This is how I found Evan after he finished his chores... on my bed, under the covers and reading. Love him. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Out the door to do some long overdue grocery shopping. We listened to the radio on our drive to Publix and one of the new 21 Pilots songs played. Both boys belted out the lyrics and I couldn't help but sing along, too. Their love of music is something I cherish. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Half way through our Publix trip. Gatorade, carrots, cat food, gold fish, garlic, crackers, apples, potatoes, and Capri Suns. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Only three more days to go! I can't wait to start putting the project together next week. </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-3052097636303626722016-05-09T23:12:00.000-04:002016-05-09T23:12:04.692-04:00Week in the Life | Monday <span style="color: #444444;">I'm breaking back into the blogging world by sharing a few photos from today: Day One of Ali Edwards' Week in the Life project. Oh yes, I am totally tackling this project this year. I've been "this close" to completing this project in the past but have never finished it. I've taken all the photos or done the journaling (or both!) but haven't completed the album. This year I'm hoping to keep the project up for the full week and finish my album next week.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">A few observations from Day One: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">My DSLR was having some issues this morning and I <i>almost</i> let that discourage me from continuing the project. Unfortunately my photos today didn't turn out quite like I had hoped, but I still got a few good shots. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">I love black + white pictures, especially portraits. They are classic and timeless and allow the subject to shine. Plus, they hide messy car seats and bad lighting. Win-win. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;"> I need to do a better job of taken photos in the morning, before school. Jack was crabby this morning and Evan and I aren't naturally morning people so I (often) forget to pick up the camera. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">Teaching in a window-less classroom isn't ideal. The photo of Jack sitting on a desk is lightened, I upped the contrast, then added a filter before running a B+W action. That is a lost of post processing for one camera photo! </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">I forgot to get photos of the kids at the book fair and doing homework. I'm choosing not to stress about it; there is always tomorrow. </span></li>
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<span style="color: #444444;">A before school selfie. After a good breakfast and finally getting out the door, we had a nice drive to school. </span><br /><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I didn't tell Jack that I was teaching his class today and he was super excited when he found out. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I had two teachers tell me funny stories about Jack today. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">First, his math teacher told me that she made an announcement in her class last week about missing an upcoming math class. Jack then said to her "please let the sub be Mrs. Taylor". She didn't get to pick the sub and I was already booked in another classroom so she had to break the bad news to him and he was so sad! I love that he wants me to teach him. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Then, one of the second grade teachers told me that she made a comment to another student about having a good day and offered a hug. Jack, who was standing behind her, piped up and said "I've had a great day, too!". The teacher asked Jack if he would also like a hug and he said "yes!" and gave her a big hug. He is such a sweet little guy. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Pizza + salad for lunch, courtesy of PCCA. Yay for a yummy free lunch. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">A little reading on our way home from school. We stopped at the book fair after school and the kids each picked out two books. The spring book fair had an awesome selection for older kids and Evan didn't have any problems finding something. Jack was much more difficult. He wanted bookmarks/erasers/Lego sets and not books. Sigh. He is a great reader but all the "shiny stuff" grabbed his attention. After some back and forth he finally settled for two chapter books, which he has already started. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Pretty Mother's Day flowers from my mom. I posted a photo of them on Instagram yesterday but I wanted to include them in this album as well. I love fresh flowers and this arrangement is especially beautiful. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Mirror selfie. I was wearing a shirt with tiny horizontal stripes that went a little crazy in the photo. I'll choose a less busy shirt for my next selfie. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Kitty stretches in the afternoon sun. Lilly found herself locked on the patio for a bit this afternoon and was not a happy cat. She likes to go in and out to the patio but <b>does not</b> like being locked on the patio. Panic sets in and she meows like crazy. She was not amused when Jack accidentally locked her out there for 10 minutes this afternoon. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">A little rest before we head to the pool. Jack was super sleepy today, which probably contributed to his crabbiness this morning. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibCPRnhgtExBh52-2sIGa8WICxFF4HLYvaoMh7T5kc3MEkTrCZSnOeLuYp2-U9iT5eK7x918oeqjMBhkrSJ6CMz8sBVCtCkg_VUlYCtGB4OM1fWiOBr1DzaYBzpnXtcnadPtDeF-SietI/s1600/20160509_170258%255B1%255D_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibCPRnhgtExBh52-2sIGa8WICxFF4HLYvaoMh7T5kc3MEkTrCZSnOeLuYp2-U9iT5eK7x918oeqjMBhkrSJ6CMz8sBVCtCkg_VUlYCtGB4OM1fWiOBr1DzaYBzpnXtcnadPtDeF-SietI/s640/20160509_170258%255B1%255D_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444;">Pool necessities: good book + ice water + sunscreen + chapstick + cooling cream + cute pineapple pouch to carry it all + beach towel. I have a "pool bag" that is always packed and ready to go. We go to the pool a lot and having the essentials hanging on a hook by the door cuts down on the amount of time we spend running around looking for stuff. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Pool time. Evan always brings his football, and Jack brings his goggles and sometimes his rings (if he remembers). </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">It was not especially warm out today (for us Floridians) and Jack only lasted about 40 minutes in the pool before requesting a towel, teeth chattering. I wrapped him up and we watched Evan play for another few minutes. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqEw1wMdNCTzZZImn3ZjO26LBIRjSIuULXIAuc4BvImbdpDQJAM-ehoigorNKQOVH3JPaVz5QWQJX_qhxqI4x0LEK2_yysYr0z3hXQWMY3o4ThARGdyVdjTIWMv3dnCs5IlkCecm3fU0/s1600/IMG_20160509_184628%255B1%255D_edit.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqEw1wMdNCTzZZImn3ZjO26LBIRjSIuULXIAuc4BvImbdpDQJAM-ehoigorNKQOVH3JPaVz5QWQJX_qhxqI4x0LEK2_yysYr0z3hXQWMY3o4ThARGdyVdjTIWMv3dnCs5IlkCecm3fU0/s640/IMG_20160509_184628%255B1%255D_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
<span style="color: #444444;">The boys started working on a Lego set Evan received for his birthday while we waited for the pizza to arrive. Evan's favorite character from the new Star Wars movie is Kylo Ren and I was thrilled to find the Kylo Ren Lego set a few months ago. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Winding down before bed. Lilly has claimed the leather chair as her own and Jack wanted some cuddles before heading to his room for the night. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Before bed reading. Evan gets a little extra time in the evenings to read before I turn out the lights. He looks so sleepy here! He didn't last very long after this photo was taken. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I always have this sense of relief when I've reached the end of the day and I remembered to pick up my camera throughout the day. I have a loose plan for tomorrow as our schedule is a little different, plus Evan is having a play date after school. Hopefully it works out and my big camera decides to cooperate. I did some Googling this evening and I think I fixed the problem. It was user error, of course! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I was featured on the Studio Calico blog as the Member Spotlight last month. If you want to take a look at the blog post you can click <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/2016/04/member-spotlight-erintaylor718">here</a>. Thanks for stopping by! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-46771748461601589362016-03-04T18:55:00.005-05:002016-03-04T18:55:44.585-05:00Hey You | Traditional Layout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1aSER9zg69xwFeiJ2zetdFLklLDLHmUeZu1bho1zJKejqv4kgQmNDYtqYrHNoJbg8y-CsJxDi4RKTN-NtyexqicyqQQ2k65ZIJ-t5WKvkKanQ0h0CHp1G6v5qBZa4_20rP8DjTHdFt4/s1600/IMG_9389_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1aSER9zg69xwFeiJ2zetdFLklLDLHmUeZu1bho1zJKejqv4kgQmNDYtqYrHNoJbg8y-CsJxDi4RKTN-NtyexqicyqQQ2k65ZIJ-t5WKvkKanQ0h0CHp1G6v5qBZa4_20rP8DjTHdFt4/s640/IMG_9389_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I still have the Savannah Main Scrapbook Kit sitting on my desk this week and I've completed three layouts with it so far. This is the second layout I finished, which was inspired by the <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/shop/metal-craft-dies/craft-die-nested-hearts">nested heart dies</a> from Studio Calico. I have several sets of heart dies, but these caught my eye because of the wider shape than most heart dies. How cute did the hearts turn out?!? I was practically giddy when I finished die cutting them. I love it when my vision turns out even better than anticipated. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I started by trimming four photos to 2.75in x 2.75in. I matted them on white cardstock then adhered them to the background cardstock/patterned paper. I added the title "hey you" with red puffy letters from the Savannah kit, then adhered the die cut hearts with foam dots in three places. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I added a few more embellishments (vellum hearts, sequins, staples, enamel dots), then added a strip of red cardstock behind the photos. The photos were already adhered to the gray cardstock, so I had to cut the red cardstock down and tuck it behind the photos, careful not to adhere the cardstock to the front of the photos. It took a little extra time but the pop of red is exactly what this layout needed. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTJb9r1Tr7jfuAfthI-GUxDlviIlu5obDoQLSgL_IPctDYuoWQ6h2QqPwH4_KrHA9xMdPsNB_ivFP4ZHfz_yg23b-qTgfzLuH7Oc0ejutdqE3SsEgQvPChbrdJY_k8QMwvhUrSyne0rk/s1600/IMG_9382_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTJb9r1Tr7jfuAfthI-GUxDlviIlu5obDoQLSgL_IPctDYuoWQ6h2QqPwH4_KrHA9xMdPsNB_ivFP4ZHfz_yg23b-qTgfzLuH7Oc0ejutdqE3SsEgQvPChbrdJY_k8QMwvhUrSyne0rk/s640/IMG_9382_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I used a "neato" badge from a previous Studio Calico kit and added a few more sequins to the top left of the layout. Can I tell you how smitten I am with how this turned out? The fact that Jack's shirt is plaid, and matches the color scheme of the kit, is icing on the cake. The gray, blue, and red color combination is so pretty. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope everyone has a great weekend! I will be back tomorrow with a card for next week's Retro Sketches challenge.</span></div>
Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-52847833958844969732016-02-24T23:51:00.000-05:002016-02-24T23:51:03.422-05:00Big Picture Classes | Hoppy Easter Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwo-7GMWHcPzy3TsV7XdrZNDkbNY7_fanS2xyC6P9W0mjfbxxG4QMYpAE0OpyNh5jm7kMPB_GdW97FjARqge-xP8puNugAbTWKRWDAZtJyLhGlTE67tFNFPN7c5a_oPGUsZPlLHPj7Gw/s1600/IMG_9222_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwo-7GMWHcPzy3TsV7XdrZNDkbNY7_fanS2xyC6P9W0mjfbxxG4QMYpAE0OpyNh5jm7kMPB_GdW97FjARqge-xP8puNugAbTWKRWDAZtJyLhGlTE67tFNFPN7c5a_oPGUsZPlLHPj7Gw/s640/IMG_9222_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Last fall I debuted my first class at Big Picture Classes (<a href="http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/classes/clean-simple-cards">Clean and Simple Cards</a>), and my second class, <a href="http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/classes/hoppy-easter-party">Hoppy Easter Party</a>, is now live! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Hoppy Easter Party has four lessons, tons of step by step photos, <a href="http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/shop/stamps/stamp-set-good-egg-4x6?c=c3927">a super cute stamp set</a> you can purchase to help create your projects, and lots of inspiration! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Check out the cupcake topper I created. Oh, how cute are these?!? I purchased cupcakes from my local grocery store, added the toppers and voila! The perfect accent for your Easter celebration. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifVbgH3qUCzHoNLoWIhIIzq99gCPdG9RcsRSBnxUhZoK0SfeSHsY8LOJDOGXlC4kx-Gi8OJCffmCPuuB8xHfQE2yUq7WjSnTPibISrUf28o-Sa8MbVHTqtQISzjuTGT3nUys4XESnIHw/s1600/Easter_Class_promotional_photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifVbgH3qUCzHoNLoWIhIIzq99gCPdG9RcsRSBnxUhZoK0SfeSHsY8LOJDOGXlC4kx-Gi8OJCffmCPuuB8xHfQE2yUq7WjSnTPibISrUf28o-Sa8MbVHTqtQISzjuTGT3nUys4XESnIHw/s640/Easter_Class_promotional_photo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">If you're a subscriber to <a href="http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/">Big Picture Classes</a> I hope you will check out my class! Feel free to leave questions in the comments below. See you there! </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-66461749169889456272016-02-18T16:41:00.000-05:002016-02-18T16:41:40.202-05:00Love Captured | Traditional Layout<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWDe9tVQWzQuSEWIICA6P2PKKG2teRvyd0Vtsz8c6KXW5BldAXbaiv2U2Gzn3d42J3ciRtu7fpDdxlYiPYJYiCfUceAGTqZv8pHD_0Tt01K9TM4Z5T-RK8KTaJZ_Mc06xXnevVghJOME/s1600/IMG_9272_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWDe9tVQWzQuSEWIICA6P2PKKG2teRvyd0Vtsz8c6KXW5BldAXbaiv2U2Gzn3d42J3ciRtu7fpDdxlYiPYJYiCfUceAGTqZv8pHD_0Tt01K9TM4Z5T-RK8KTaJZ_Mc06xXnevVghJOME/s640/IMG_9272_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I mentioned in <a href="http://erintaylor718.blogspot.com/2016/01/photo-taken-in-my-parents-backyard.html">this post</a> from January that I want to start posting scrapbooking pages/layouts on my blog more frequently. My personal time (and therefor my crating time) has taken a hit this past year, but I have been creating more layouts when I do sneak away to my office for a few minutes. I took a definite break from traditional scrapbooking from 2010-2013(ish) to focus on cards and digital layouts, and frankly, I was burned out. I still took a ton of photos, which are safely stored on an external hard drive, but now I'm ready to dive back in and turn some of those photos into layouts. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">This month's Studio Calico scrapbook kit, <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/how-it-works#our-monthly-kits">Savannah</a>, had me panicking a little when it arrived in the mail. So. Much. Pink! And red, and peach, and gold. With two boys at home I rarely use floral paper on my pages, although I do use a fair amount of red. The patterns are beautiful, though, and I am particularly fond of the puffy alphabet stickers. I love sans serif fonts, and these tall, skinny letters are even cuter in person than on the screen. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1llAZJt622LPbcDdD9-Xf7X4ZEg0PeYNAwEpBCK_K2BT3fAmVthtTZo3vrOLc4xEwEDK4OFb35Ahx3wZaPLWxLUdFPXpqp23grgwJ9XZsqYcHCgKp4wgDUzWJsvppkZS1Y9aM5uEqnd8/s1600/IMG_9265_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1llAZJt622LPbcDdD9-Xf7X4ZEg0PeYNAwEpBCK_K2BT3fAmVthtTZo3vrOLc4xEwEDK4OFb35Ahx3wZaPLWxLUdFPXpqp23grgwJ9XZsqYcHCgKp4wgDUzWJsvppkZS1Y9aM5uEqnd8/s640/IMG_9265_edit.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #444444;">I started with a piece of 8.5x11 inch textured white cardstock. I trimmed the photo down to 8.25x5.5 inches and matted it on a piece of white cardstock, then adhered it to the top of the page. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2yQdyiN6kpr5TbQrvpRfVBCeXyNgePV280KZe4k37oJeOV59jJaAceI1yG2ud5HUmhekRmyDi6zBUmjnRoyxM6RSvWnX-XoT2DRyDiIaTEWI9VjtR2TEbnYvYZ2hfvTcnCpavHflTi0/s1600/IMG_9274_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2yQdyiN6kpr5TbQrvpRfVBCeXyNgePV280KZe4k37oJeOV59jJaAceI1yG2ud5HUmhekRmyDi6zBUmjnRoyxM6RSvWnX-XoT2DRyDiIaTEWI9VjtR2TEbnYvYZ2hfvTcnCpavHflTi0/s640/IMG_9274_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">To create the bottom of the layout, I trimmed patterned paper from the Savannah kit into 8.5 inch wide strips, with varying heights. I think I ended up uses every single piece of paper in the kit! The gray strip I trimmed shorter than the other strips to allow for the title. Under the title I added the "captured" sticker. Then I added a couple of labels, also from the sticker sheet, on the photo and black and white striped paper. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVFkkBwhvaksEEEXS1ny4rGjcdh01HVUzlVRapbw5I2vEMGG-g1p4xTQxuaWvHShy-bhVITYITgzU0XMimdbj9NBPb2HNaf50FNlJwXPSZ3ITr8zI8JJQ8gTdBy_e4m8msYXTNbnQHJh0/s1600/IMG_9266_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVFkkBwhvaksEEEXS1ny4rGjcdh01HVUzlVRapbw5I2vEMGG-g1p4xTQxuaWvHShy-bhVITYITgzU0XMimdbj9NBPb2HNaf50FNlJwXPSZ3ITr8zI8JJQ8gTdBy_e4m8msYXTNbnQHJh0/s640/IMG_9266_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">The teeny tiny hearts were the perfect finishing touch. This photo is one of my favorites from 2015 and I'm happy the page I envisioned in my head translated so well onto paper. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFimYDde9g_6l4YJmBHCDypqXvJGN0ZoWHBcaoIHDkPJ31a7jDuDwwQKF10WSLue5wG0TFTQy8kPoiPlh0LMoPp5g867G_7MgQsiiZoo_y1uNFpSsAITxoSn4_0r5DTAOuecHXYCuUYos/s1600/IMG_9270_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFimYDde9g_6l4YJmBHCDypqXvJGN0ZoWHBcaoIHDkPJ31a7jDuDwwQKF10WSLue5wG0TFTQy8kPoiPlh0LMoPp5g867G_7MgQsiiZoo_y1uNFpSsAITxoSn4_0r5DTAOuecHXYCuUYos/s640/IMG_9270_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Check back later this weekend for a card for Retro Sketches. Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend! </span></div>
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Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-60206529924467055772016-02-13T23:45:00.000-05:002016-02-13T23:45:06.793-05:00Retro Sketches | Challenge #202<span style="color: #444444;">Happy Valentine's Day! We don't typically celebrate Valentine's Day with much fanfare around here, but I did pick up a box of chocolates and some conversation hearts for each of the kids. They will appreciate the gesture (or at least appreciate the candy!) and I feel better as a mom knowing we are celebrating a silly holiday together. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I'm slowly carving out more time for myself to spend in my office. I have a couple of big projects coming up that I can't share just yet (I know, I'm such a tease!), but I did have time to whip up a stamp-less card for this week's <a href="http://retrosketches.blogspot.com/2016/02/retrosketches-202.html">Retro Sketches challenge</a>. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50bM_CMMQkKd3Mb2H8IB3cfprrSLvqwSBea0niiWpCcJfE1UqL1_UzH5-4j3-3TkKUkQl1xFBOUyEM0cCU6IlS4E-DOHBvcBBlqRYnN9pv6uC2gu8po8qReITrjsLkx01fw7MsSKdF5o/s1600/rs202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50bM_CMMQkKd3Mb2H8IB3cfprrSLvqwSBea0niiWpCcJfE1UqL1_UzH5-4j3-3TkKUkQl1xFBOUyEM0cCU6IlS4E-DOHBvcBBlqRYnN9pv6uC2gu8po8qReITrjsLkx01fw7MsSKdF5o/s320/rs202.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I started out with a piece of light blue patterned paper from the <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/shop/-/amy-tangerine-better-together-6x6-paper-pad">Amy Tangerine Better Together 6x6 paper pad</a>, adhered to the bottom on my card. I die cut three butterflies, from <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/shop/stamps/stamp-die-set-origami-by-jasmine-jones">Studio Calico's Origami</a> stamp and die set, from the same paper pad and added large enamel dots to the center of each. I picked up the silver glitter tape from Michaels around Christmas, and it added the perfect amount of sparkle to my project. After adhering the butterflies and glitter tape I added strip of black and white thin washi tape, some clear gems, and several layered "hello" die cuts (from Papertrey Ink's <a href="https://www.papertreyink.com/pti-dies/papertrey-ink-wonderful-words-hello-die/">Wonderful Words: Hello</a> die). </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5YAow_CHuFMbHs9h63YzgEkcENGG1XpnGzsrDNIahbFcZR4ScpRGb55vbyvYjYi_XR5VeukaW0dmFkS4U5oaKdFWMHp6cEwdjI1mqAXs5o2MQka-SV3TgHpZNH4kclIO-kFm-QU_QFLc/s1600/IMG_9224_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5YAow_CHuFMbHs9h63YzgEkcENGG1XpnGzsrDNIahbFcZR4ScpRGb55vbyvYjYi_XR5VeukaW0dmFkS4U5oaKdFWMHp6cEwdjI1mqAXs5o2MQka-SV3TgHpZNH4kclIO-kFm-QU_QFLc/s640/IMG_9224_edit.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope you can join us this week! Make sure to check out the <a href="http://retrosketches.blogspot.com/2016/02/retrosketches-202.html">Retro Sketches blog</a> for more inspiration and a chance to link up your own projects. Have a wonderful Sunday and thanks for stopping by! </span></div>
Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-47619799831735478472016-01-30T21:38:00.004-05:002016-01-30T22:11:48.101-05:00What I'm Reading | January 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicaCnfou-OJ2J3bfsXg98k2x1IneAz60ou6z8WnbtXSdJXnA1iy3TKbhSQLcz8SMt8r0ops_q-IXkiL3DPizVG8VKP92wdPm2ixbTJwvZw9M4jbCJqc2XRNdYkwL19jvXiX2g-Me_wgSQ/s1600/IMG_20150710_143441_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicaCnfou-OJ2J3bfsXg98k2x1IneAz60ou6z8WnbtXSdJXnA1iy3TKbhSQLcz8SMt8r0ops_q-IXkiL3DPizVG8VKP92wdPm2ixbTJwvZw9M4jbCJqc2XRNdYkwL19jvXiX2g-Me_wgSQ/s640/IMG_20150710_143441_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">This past year I made a personal goal to spend less time surfing the internet (yes I'm talking about you, Facebook) and more time with my nose in a book. I read quite a few interesting and thought provoking novels in 2015, and a lot of trashy romance novels, too. This year I haven't read as many romance novels and I've added a few good true crime books into the mix, too. Here is what is on my nightstand right now. I've either finished each book or currently working my way through them. I take after my father and I have several books going at once (including a couple of required reading textbooks for my college classes). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Spark-Joy-Illustrated-Organizing-Tidying/dp/1607749726/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1454204030&sr=1-2">Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up by Maria Kondo.</a> Oh clutter, how I hate you. I go through phases of clutter in my house. During the summer it's toys, books, games, pool noodles, swim trunks, and flip flops. During the school year my counters are covered in papers to be returned to school, lunch boxes, notes, school uniforms, and homework. My desk is <i>always</i> cluttered. Right now my bedroom looks like the stock room at Old Navy... clothes piled on every surface. I am about 30% through <i>Spark Joy</i> and while I wouldn't call it revolutionary, it does make me aware of the problem areas in my home and gives step by step instructions on how to tackle those areas. And who couldn't use more organization in their lives? </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Helter-Skelter-Story-Manson-Murders-ebook/dp/B00261OOXA/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1453955612&sr=1-1&keywords=helter+skelter">Helter Skelter by Vincent Bugliosi</a>. As a true crime enthusiast I was excited to read <i>Helter Skelter</i>, a recommendation from my father. The author, Vincent Bugliosi, was also the lead prosecuting attorney and gave exceptional insight into the cult of Charles Manson, his followers, the Tate/LaBianca murders, and the ensuing trial(s). I highly recommend this book if you're into true crime, although I will warn you, I had a hard time sleeping after reading some of it. I texted a friend that I was certain Charles Manson was going to crawl into my bedroom and murder me. Combine a love of true crime novels with an active imagination and you get some irrational behavior at times! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Good-Bed-Jennifer-Weiner/dp/0743475496/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1454204797&sr=1-1&keywords=good+in+bed">Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner</a>. How did I miss this book when it was released over a decade ago? Funny, witty, charming, heartbreaking... all my favorite things about a good novel. Weiner's main character, Cannie, is one of my favorite female leads in a long, long time. I was sad when I finished this one and I hope to pick up one or two more of Weiner's more recent novels. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Son-Psychopath-Victims-Jack-Olsen/dp/1501119044/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1454205154&sr=1-1&keywords=son+olsen">Son: A Psychopath and His Victims by Jack Olsen</a>. My true crime kick continues with the story of the South Hill (Spokane) Rapist. My dad grew up on South Hill Spokane, and his sister was a young woman during the time of these attacks. I devoured this book in under a week and highly recommend it. This book didn't frighten me as much as <i>Helter Skelter</i>, although I have no idea why not; the scenarios in this book are far more likely than a Charles Manson type cult killing.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Big-Magic-Creative-Living-Beyond/dp/1594634718/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1454205629&sr=1-2&keywords=eat+pray+love">Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert.</a> I read <i>Eat Pray Love</i> many years ago and I must admit I lost interest halfway through the <i>Pray</i> portion of the book. While I enjoyed the story Gilbert was telling, I wasn't overly impressed with her delivery. However, <i>Big Magic</i> has taken me by surprise. Her writing style is succinct and eloquent, and her advice and guidance are well articulated. I am reading this at the same pace I tackle <i>Spark Joy, </i>and both books are placed firmly in my "must read" pile. Balancing work, school, the kids, and my creative efforts has been a struggle these past few months, and <i>Big Magic</i> offers a lot of great advice on how to tackle these seemingly insurmountable problems. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thrill-Fools-Gold-Susan-Mallery/dp/0373788983/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1454206259&sr=1-2&keywords=susan+mallery&refinements=p_lbr_books_series_browse-bin%3AFool%27s+Gold">Thrill Me by Susan Mallery</a>. This is where we take a right turn in my eccentric reading preferences into... the trashy romance novel. Yes, I occasionally pick something up with "Harlequin Romance" written on the spine and only feel a teeny tiny bit guilty about it. More often than not I'll buy the newest Fool's Gold romance by Susan Mallery. Her stories are predictable with just the right about of trashiness to make them fun. What draws me to her books is the continuation of her characters in newer books, and the fictional town of Fool's Gold. If you're looking for a new romance novelist to read, I recommend Mallery. She is by far my favorite (but I'm always looking for suggestions!). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">January was a great month for reading. I finished a few books and started several more, and I have a growing list of books to read for February! I have another Bugliosi book on its way, Mandy Kaling's newest autobiography on the shelf, and several novels on hold at the local library. I hope my "what I'm reading" list has introduced you to a new author, or two. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I'm always looking for new authors to read so please leave recommendations in the comments! Have a wonderful weekend and thanks for stopping by. </span></div>
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Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-29208284435866224172016-01-18T17:05:00.000-05:002016-01-18T17:05:02.657-05:00Retro Sketches | Challenge #198<span style="color: #444444;">Get afternoon! Before I talk about this week's Retro Sketches sketch (and my inspiration card) I wanted to let you know about a class I have over at <a href="http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/">Big Picture Classes</a>. Last summer BPC approached me about teaching card classes for them and I happily accepted! My first class, <a href="http://www.bigpictureclasses.com/classes/clean-simple-cards">Clean and Simple Cards</a>, went live a couple of months ago. If you're a monthly subscriber to Big Picture Classes I would love for you to check it out! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">This week's <a href="http://retrosketches.blogspot.com/2016/01/retrosketches-198.html">Retro Sketch sketch</a> is based on one of my cards! You can see it <a href="http://erintaylor718.blogspot.com/2015/02/case-this-sketch-challenge-110.html">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I pulled out my Studio Calico Pop Art card kit, and a couple of rubber leaves from the scrapbook kit, for my card. I love the bright colors mixed with black and white in the Pop Art kit, and the rubber leaves are a fun element. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I added a few enamel dots, also from Studio Calico, and a sentiment from Papertrey Ink. Quick and easy!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Thank you so much for leaving comments on my post from Saturday. It means a lot that I have loyal blog readers that check out my tiny part of cyberspace. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I hope everyone is having a nice holiday. The kids and I have done nothing today (whoo!) except relax, play games, and do some cleaning. Exactly what we needed after an extremely busy week! Thanks for stopping by. </span></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"> </span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4700790227929052913.post-77430185539937115292016-01-18T00:52:00.001-05:002016-01-18T00:52:33.495-05:00Trip to Seattle | Holidays 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVkctjPdVdy6CU_KufGFNeLGzKx9nPBOdpHg648XiwacF7_5Zn3T9qe07vM7acwjXtA28uqgm1FchIb1X-oCRvgcHzNXpIxq1vBGNVrDDdCGqbbYqFuR-lSlu5pe8V6S9CQRGUjE8VGg/s1600/IMG_0908_edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVkctjPdVdy6CU_KufGFNeLGzKx9nPBOdpHg648XiwacF7_5Zn3T9qe07vM7acwjXtA28uqgm1FchIb1X-oCRvgcHzNXpIxq1vBGNVrDDdCGqbbYqFuR-lSlu5pe8V6S9CQRGUjE8VGg/s640/IMG_0908_edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /><span style="color: #444444;">Yesterday I mentioned posting this week's Retro Sketches card, then the Seahawks played this afteroon (and lost!) and I completely forgot to photograph my card! Of course it's dark now and I don't have a good setup for photographing projects at night. So... I swapped a couple of posts around and today I'm sharing some photos from our day trip to Seattle, Washington. The boys and I spent two weeks with my parents (they joined their father for a few days around Christmas) over the holidays.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">A couple of days before we flew home my parents treated us to brunch at the top of the Space Needle. If you haven't done this before I highly recommend it. The food is amazing and you can't beat the view!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">We had 10am reservations and I was told we could arrive 30 minutes early and check out the observation deck. I'm guessing the receptionist didn't realize the 10am reservation was right at opening because they were not expecting us at 9:30. We were told to hang out in the gift shop until 10am, which worked out great because it was freezing outside. Of course Jack wanted to buy everything in the gift shop and he managed to hit Grandma up for a Seattle snow globe before we left. Even she can't turn down those big blue eyes. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">I admire bloggers who can take fantastic food photos, and I had every intention of taking photos of my amazing meal but I was too busy eating it! The best part about eating at the top of the Space Needle (besides the food, of course) is the incredible 360 degree view. The restaurant rotates while you eat, making one revolution every 45 minutes, and you end up seeing something new every time you look out the big windows. It's pretty incredible. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">After brunch we moved to the observation deck. This is always the boys' favorite part of visiting Seattle, although it was super busy at the top by the time we finished brunch. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">There was a ton of fog on our drive into Seattle and I was concerned about visibility but once we got into the city the fog dissipated and the view was spectacular! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">Jack spotted a park while we were at the top of the Space Needle and we decided to check it out when we got back to ground level. It was an awesome playground with a large rope climbing gym, swings, and interactive musical instruments. The boys had a blast and I got some great pictures of them and my parents. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">After about an hour at the park we were all freezing and ready to head home. The kids and I are planning to visit Washington again this summer and we will spend a few days in Seattle checking out some of the other attractions... the Pacific Science Center, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium, EMP, and possibly a Harbor City Cruise. Until then this day trip will have to hold us over. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I used my Canon 70D camera and 50mm 1.8, 85mm 1.8, and 24mm 2.8 lenses for these photos. The 24mm 2.8 was great for capturing all of the Space Needle in the frame and for photos with sun flare. It was such a crisp, cool, clear day and I'm extremely pleased with how these photos turned out. Now I need to decide which photos to frame for around the house! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">I have my Retro Sketches card on my desk, ready to be photographed in the morning. Hopefully nothing will come up and I will have a blog post up in a timely manner. We can always hope! </span></div>
Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699343828896696957noreply@blogger.com0