New Computer, New Post, New Year, New Catalogs, New Challenges, New Fun

Greetings from Sunny and Cool Florida....Today is cool, but not as cold as it is where most of my family and friends are in Maryland.    I hope you all had good holiday celebrations, I sure did.

Here are photos  of my grandkids, some taken before, during and after our Christmas Celebration.  Christine's two children, Rachel

and Ryan, wanting to open those presents, no matter who they were for!

Aimee's two boys, Jacob

and Colin

and Robyn's daughter, Emma, with me..

I have some great photos of the day, but they are on my camera, I have to put them on my computer, later.

SO much happening, Christmas came so fast and I wasn't at all prepared!!!   I even sent out a few of my Christmas cards after returning to Florida Tuesday!    It was a lot of fun, spending it with my family, my girls, grandchildren and friends.   I am planning on being better prepared next year.  HA, we' will see how that goes!

The Holiday Catalog is about to end on Jan 3rd, so if there are things you would still like to get from the Holiday catalog, you need to get them by then.   Here is the list of the Retiring Items....The bundles will no longer be available, but the stamp sets and framelits still may be available to purchase, you just won't be able to get the 10% discount.

The Occasions catalog will start on Jan 4th and there are SO many fun stamp sets, coordinating framelits and more...If you didn't receive a catalog, just contact me and I will get one to you.

Here is a card I made using one of the new sets, Yummy in my Tummy.   I used retired Designer Series Paper, stamped him using Black Archival Ink and colored his horns, teeth and paws using Island Indigo Marker.

New Challenges....A lot of new ones for me.   A new computer, planning ahead! and planning something for my Maryland stampers since I will not be coming up until Spring.  Learning how to do videos and post them.

New Fun - Lots and Lots of new fun....Stamps, Watercolor pencils that are Stampin' Up! colors, coordinating framelits to go with those stamp sets, new tools, and of course Sale a bration (SAB) with Freebies to earn with purchases.

I hope you get a chance to Stamp today!

Paisleys and Posies Birthday Card, Day 3

Can you believe it???? Posting 3 days in a row!

 I will be getting my new computer today.....SO sending emails, blog posts and Facebook posts should get easier.   I hope to conquer video taking too....I know I have a lot I would love to share.

Today's card uses my favorite technique, Emboss Resist.   I used Paisleys and Posies stamp set and stamped with versamark on vanilla card stock and used white embossing powder.   After I embossed the images with the embossing tool, I let it cool for a minute and then sponged with Wisteria Wonder ink....I kept sponging for a bit because the ink color is darker  than the card stock and didn't look good until I had sponged several coats.   

I layered this panel onto a very vanilla that was 1/4" wider.   I used dimensionals to put this onto the Wisteria Wonder card and stamped Happy Birthday from Guy Greetings using black ink.  

A great find for me today on a facebook sale group and only $20, has 4 sides and swivels all around...and the best thing, holds about 200 DVD cases, THAT'S A LOT OF STAMP SETS!

So what do you think?   I can find a stamp set so quick now!

Let me know what you store you stamp sets in?   Maybe some of your other stamping supplies?  I am looking for ideas for this room.   Leave a comment with your organizational tip/storage item and I'll pick a winner for some freebies.  You have until Wednesday, the 16th.

Enjoy! 

Carol

Stampin' Up! Paisleys and Posies - 3x3 Thank Yous

This stamp set  is on page 47 of the Holiday Catalog and has coordinating framelits.   The stamp set consists of 18  Photopolymer stamps for $21 and the framelits have 19 dies for $29.  The bundle for both is $45 which saves you 10%.  

I have a confession to make.......When I saw this stamp set, I thought....not my style and moved on looking thru the catalog.  When the catalog went live back in September, I started seeing samples and to tell the truth, I didn't really like any I saw.  Then about a week ago, I spotted a card on a blog and I had to get this set....I wanted to recreate the card I saw.   I called my friend and one of my downline Phyllis and asked if I could borrow hers for my upcoming class, and could she send it to me right away!!!!   Of course she says....THANK YOU PHYLLIS.   I recreated the card for my classes this month, I'll share later in the month.  

I wanted to make some other cards using this set, so this is what I came up with.... My own creation (doesn't happen often).   I had been cutting some leaves using the leaf framelits for my Mom using Cajun Craze, Always Artichoke and Crushed Curry and I just love the color Cajun Craze.....So I made these and used the Cajun Craze and Soft Suede ink and Copper wire.  

These cards are fun to make (and give to others)....It uses the basics....Stamping, no Big shot, just lots of stamps and ink and card stock.... and a punch to make the flag tails on the Blessed greeting.  I made the cards assembly line style.  First I cut the cajun craze card stock 6 x 3 and scored in half.   Next, I cut insides using Very Vanilla card stock at 2 3/4" square.  Then I went thru my scraps of Very Vanilla card stock and pulled out a bunch of scraps, I stamped the greeting in Soft Suede ink and cut the tails using the Triple Banner Punch.  I stamped the front of the card with Cajun Craze ink, stamping each image on all the cards before stamping the next image...I think I used 6 different stamps in that set!   To adhere the copper wire, I put snail on the back of the greeting tag and wrapped wire in a figure 8 pattern pressing into the snail as I made 2 figure 8s.  I put dimensionals on back of the greeting tag and put onto the card.  I stamped "I thank you for your part in my journey" which is one of the stamps in the set, on each inside 2 3/4" square, because I really am blessed and grateful to these people that I give these cards to.

These small sized cards are great to give out all the time for a variety of reasons.   I give my server's tip in these cards at restaurants, to the conscientious person in Panera's who is clearing tables when they see me or those I am with struggling with trays of dishes and grandchildren!  The person in any store who is helpful in my search for a specific item or they go out of their way to help in a variety of ways, Hairdressers, bank tellers, and just about anyone.  They are easy to make and Make a Difference in someone's life.

WOW, it is 3 hrs earlier tonight writing this post than it was last night!   I might even get to stamp a little tonight.   I'll use this stamp set too and post again tomorrow!   Three days in a row?  I don't know if you all can take it.

I challenge you to make someone's day.   Grab some card stock and make a few 3x3 cards or even smaller. If you have some scrap card stock that you need to use up, fold it in half and challenge yourself to stamp on it to give away - someone might need a pick me up and you could be that person.

ENJOY and be kind to one another!

Carol

  

3rd time is a charm! Stampin' UP! Specials and Life stories

I have started drafting this post 2 times before this try.....this last time I have spent an hr on the post, only to delete it by mistake when trying to add this photo.....So you're getting the photo first and then the post with the story.....

These card were made using the Star of Light stamp set from the Holiday catalog.   All done in Night of Navy and white.   This stamp set has 21 stamps and a coordinating framelit set.   If you purchase the bundle, the stamp set and framelits, you save 10%!    I used at least 7 stamps from this set.  I didn't use the framelits on these cards, however on a card from last month's stamp class, I did use 2 of the framelits.   This set is so beautiful and versatile too...The stars you can use on a Congratulations or Birthday cards.....  I will share the card from class on my next post.

Now for the story and Stampin' Up! Specials

My last post was in September and on September 30th, a palm tree next to our house was struck by lightning, but we didn't know it at the time.   My daughter and family were visiting and we had gone shopping, my hubby stayed home.  There was one terrific storm and we had to wait over 30 minutes in the car until we could get out of the car to go into the store...

When we arrived home, there was no power, it was hot and humid here in Florida and my husband was sitting in his car in the driveway with the AC running.   I went into the house and started walked from one end of the house to the other (in the dark) and suddenly felt water rushing over my feet.  My husband was able to turn the water off and we stayed at my brother's house nearby for the night.

Upon returning to the house, we observed that the tree was struck by lightning and power had been restored, but garage door opener would not work!  Clue #1.   There was no longer water flowing in my house, all the floors in the house, wood laminate, had sucked up all the water....but this was just the beginning.

Fast Forward 6 weeks.   Hurricane Matthew blew thru here and knocked over a very large ugly cactus.   That's it!  Very Thankful.   However, that storm was another story.....We have replaced all the floors in the house, while staying in the house, moving all our belongings that weren't ruined into the garage and out on the screen porch.  We have had the plumbing and lots of electrical damage repaired.  A couple tvs, cable, garage door opening system, all replaced or repaired.  

God was surely watching over us that night.....Everything we lost was just stuff!  replaceable stuff!

I have finally started creating again and the cards in the beginning of this post are some I made today using a sketch challenge.

My computer is 8 years old and doesn't function as well as it once did, but I have just ordered a new one and it should be here soon!!!!!!  In the meantime, any publication flyers Stampin' Up! puts out, I cannot download.   Any photos (like the one above) I must use my iPad to put the photo on the post, then come to this computer and resize the photo and either finish my post or save it.   When I was adding the photo about an hr ago, midnight my time, I accidentally erased the long post I had drafted!!!!!  And I had started a post the other day too....So this is the 3rd time. and I am staying up until I finish and I publish it!  There is probably an easier way to upload a photo on my iPad and resize it then....but I haven't figured it out.  I want to do some videos too, but need some assistance in pulling that off, maybe with a new computer, it will be easier!!!

Here are some specials going on thru Stampin' Up!

Stampin' Up! has come out with some Stitched Framelits, they are in circles, squares and ovals!  Mine are on their way here and they are available for anyone to purchase.   They will be in the new Annual Catalog in June, but you can order yours today.   You can order right on my website -- When you go to my website, there you check check out the details of the Stitched Framelits.   There are samples and I believe a video...GO check it out.

They also have selected a few stamp sets from the Annual and Holiday catalogs for purchase at 25% off the cost.....check out my website for those too.

When you order, please use the Hostess Code 3J34YMQA  - I enter everyone who places an order with me, whether in person, at a class or thru the website for some FREE current merchandise goodies.

Today, November 10th is the last day to sign up for this month's Paper Pumpkin.   This is a great kit in the mail.....Want to learn more, check it out on my website or contact me to learn more.   A great value for $20.  A great gift idea too.
 
I hope to post again tomorrow, actually later today since it is almost 130am!!!! and I can barely see the print on the screen....

Take Care, Love one another... We sure need more Love in this world!

Carol

My Stampin' News and Travels

    My Paper Pumpkin People....... The Paper Pumpkin kits are in the mail and on their way.   Can't wait to get mine, but I haven't had time to do last month's !!!!  Yikes I better get started....Maybe this afternoon.   Don't know what Paper Pumpkin is all about?   Go to Paperpumpkin.com and check it out!   It's a craft kit that comes in the mail every month that comes with a stamp set, small ink spot, and all the items you need to complete the projects - you just need a clear block and adhesive....$19.95 + tax, shipping is already included in that price!   AND from now til Oct 10th, if you have never tried Paper Pumpkin before, it's BOGOF    You buy one month, get your 2nd FREE.   After your first 2 months, you can skip a month, or cancel at any time.    Want to know more, Have questions??? Just give me a call, we can meet up and I can show you in person what the kits look like...Sometimes it's better to see it in person...

Clearance Rack -  WOW it has been updated with tons of items, check it out on my website:  www.stampergirl.stampinup.net     along with the Special Deals that Stampin' Up! is offering this month.   Only a few more days to take advantage of Special Delas from Stampin' Up!  Check them all out on my website and when ordering , use Hostess Code X4AG7CFY .  If you order $150 or more, then don’t use the hostess code, you can get all the Hostess Benefits yourself.  

October Classes – MD and FL

I will hold the same class in FL and MD in October.  We will make 3 Christmas cards and at least one could be made into December or Winter Birthday Cards if you wished.   I will also have a gift holder  item to make.


FL – Thurs Oct 6th, 10am – Casa Loma Clubhouse

MD – Sun Oct 9th, 1pm – Belisimo’s – Finksburg

Both Classes, all supplies included to make the projects except adhesive…. If you have them, bring your paper snips and bone folder.
For both classes, RSVP by Oct 1st to receive a Stampin’ goodie from me.   These goodies are usually retired items (sometimes they come from the Clearance rack)…

The last day to RSVP for the class at either location by Oct 5th.

Just wanted to Thank You all for Stampin’ with me…….I appreciate and enjoy it!

Here's a few swap cards using some of the new goodies in the holiday catalog

A non holiday stamp set from the holiday catalog, Totally Trees.... I used this set for my Thank You cards for my customers. 

ENJOY!

Carol

Stampin' Class this week, and a much needed stamp room makeover it theworks

Blogging from an outdated laptop and iPad is very difficult.    I am searching for a new laptop, one that I can actually download and upload.....One that I can share photos....and maybe post on my blog as well as search the internet and read and send emails and visit social media.

It has been a busy summer and I am a bit excited to slow down visiting Maryland, at the same time missing spending time with my children, grandchildren, family and lots of friends.

My Mom has moved closer to my brother and I, saving lots of gasoline and lots of time.

I have been cleaning up my stamp room and trying to organize it better for more efficiency which will save me time searching for items.   I'll share a few photos of "before" and then by the end of this month, show you the "after"   why so long for the after?   I have been rearranging items and realize some of my storage in my stamp room is not the right furniture.   So I am in the hunt for some new items:  bookcase to house my stamp sets.   Maybe a shelf to put on my desk to increase some space....and who knows what else I'll find to use in here.

How does this happen!!!!!  Anyone else have a desk so cluttered?   Send me a photo of yours and I will award some prizes....for the most cluttered desk!

This Wednesday I am holding a beginners class at Casa Loma Mobile Home Park, Melbourne, FL.   I have no idea how many people will show up, but it is open to the residents there and I planned a card for them to make as well as showing some of Stampin' Up!'s great products, all color coordinated too.  If you are in the area, stop by 10am - 11am.  Here is a card I was going to use, because it uses a punch and stamp set, but when done, I thought it was too much for a beginner.

I am also holding a class on Thursday, same place

Stamp Class, Sept 8th, 10 am. Casa Loma Clubhouse, Melbourne, FL. The Class is $10 or FREE with an order of $20 or more the day of the class. Bring your bone folder and paper snips if you have them and your favorite adhesive. All other supplies are included in the class.  Bring a new stamper to my class and receive a gift from me. Both you and the new stamper.

Stampin' Up! is offering Special Offers from Now thru Sept 21st.   Different offers each week.   The first week ends tomorrow.   Check them out!

This is a screen shot from my laptop, cause either my computer is too old to convert PDFs to JPEG2000, AND I am too challenged to figure it out!

You can order on my website for these great offers as well as any Stampin' Up! products,  www.stampergirltoo.blogspot.com.  Please use Hostess Code   SQKHMBJC when ordering online.    You can also contact me to place your order too.

Ok back to laptop to resize photo......!   

Photo resized finally.

Thanks for sticking with me,
Carol

Stampin' Up! Embossing folders and duct tape

Yesterday I held a class here in Florida.   When I. Was packing up, noticed the Woodland embossing folder was bent on one side, almost cracked completely through.    So I showed the ladies what could happen if you didn't make sure it was going through the Big Shot straight.  

TOok it hope and thought about just ordering a new one......Duck Tape to the rescue.    Works perfect.

Here is the card me made using the embossing folder.  CASED from Pinterest.

What is one of your "household fix its" for Stampin/paper crafting?   Let me know in the comments section and I will randomly choose one to win a gift from Me.

I hope you get a chance to get some crafting done and have fun creating today....I will be helping my Mom and stepdad move, no crafting til Monday or me.

Summer Solstice, Visiting friends and family and Stampin' Up! Class

This is my all time favorite time of the year!!!!! I love summer......yes, I love the heat, sunshine, beach, surf, pool swimming too.

I am in Maryland visiting my family, daughters and grandchildren and lots of friends.   Of course there is stampin' too!

Last week, I held a class for some friends and I will be holding the same class this Sunday, 1p-3p, Belisimo's on Rt 140 in Finksburg, just North of Rt 91.  All are welcome to join us, I just need you to RSVP either by commenting on my blog, on facebook Stampin' with Stampergirl, calling or texting me.   I need you to RSVP no later than 5pm on Saturday.

Here is a photo of one of the cards we will be making

It's from the Hostess set, love you lots... So many cute images from that set.   I chose the elephant and mouse image to use as a birthday card for a friends birthday card....

Sometimes I get   "Design Block". I want to use a stamp set, but can't decide how to use it.   Way too many choices on Splitcoaststampers and Pinterest, Facebook stamping groups, blogs....so I will either try looking at a sketch challenge or color challenge.   This is a sketch challenge from a Facebook group of Stampin' Up! Demonstrators that I belong to.   

I hope you enjoy Summer, and if it is too hot....You can stay inside the AC and stamp!!!

Enjoy

Stampin' Up's new In Color 2016-2018 Markers

If you are sure what new in color inks you would like to get.... The markers are a great deal for $15 you get 5 markers.  That is only $3 per marker.  There are two points for each marker, a thin and a brush point.   The thin point allows you to get into small areas of an image.  The brush point allows you to color in a larger area.   You can try the markers on stamps as ink color or to color an image and order all he in color inks or just ones you really love. A great deal for a small investment.

New In color  Markers $15

Crafting fun with granddaughter Rachel.....priceless

She was having so much fun coloring butterflies.......the markers held up with her hard pressure.  Rachel loves crafting with Grammy. I will bring stamps and inks over later this week for us to make her momma a birthday card...

Paper Pumpkin One Day Deal! $5

Paper Pumpkin has a One Day Deal!   $5 for your first month (new subscribers only)


Get ready for a flash sale! Starting at 5:00 PM (MT) on Thursday, get your first Paper Pumpkin kit for only $5 USD. Don’t miss this one!


The flash sale is here! Sign up for Paper Pumpkin now and get your first kit for only $5 USD. Use promo code “ONEDAYDEAL” at PaperPumpkin.com today.

Awesome Deal, Get a kit in your mailbox every month!  Go to PaperPumpkin.com to find out more.

Please choose me, Carol Valentine as your demonstrator.  When you receive your 3rd Paper Pumpkin, I will send you a gift from me.

This doesn't start until 5 PM  MT tomorrow, Thursday, June 9th....

Go to  PaperPumpkin.com to sign up

Don't forget Promo Code:   ONEDAYDEAL

and Don't forget to choose me, Carol Valentine as your Demonstrator.

New products have arrived and I am busing making some projects for my upcoming class in Maryland.



ENJOY!


Carol

New Stampin' Up! Catalog - coming soon - 5 more days!!!

The new catalog is almost here....only 5 more days til we can order from it, however you can look thru it now....Do you own a copy?  Contact me to get your copy today!  I am patiently (NOT!) waiting for my preorder from the new catalog.   The order is supposed to be delivered by the lady or man in Brown.

I only ordered a few things this time, the new  In Color inks, reinkers, card stocks and markers, 2 hostess sets we could order (YEP, that is a perk we get for being a demonstrator) and a few things from the current catalog.....that are not retiring, items I can always use...Dimensionals!   That is the most used item I order.  Almost every card gets dimensionals.

In the meantime, while we wait...................

Yesterday was my class here in Florida....I tried to use products that are retiring...Below is a photo of the projects we made. All copied from other Stampin' demonstrators either from groups on Facebook, blog hopping or from previous projects I have made over the years. The treat holder is made from a 6 X 6 piece of DSP from the Cherry on Top DSP stack. And we used that stack all up! You can make them from all sizes of DSP, just need even square, like 4", 6", 8", 10" and 12"..

Here are the different size pouches , I put items inside to give you an idea od what the hold.  The smallest uses DSP that is 6 X 6", then 8x8", 10x10" and the largest is 12x12".  These are so simple to make, the only tool you need is a bone folder, then you can decorate anyway you want and fill.   These would be great for table settings at a party or to give a little gift to someone.  Who knows, tomorrow I might bite the bullet and do a video.

I will be putting in an order on Monday, May 30th, contact me to place your order or you can order from my website... www.stampergirl.stampinup.net, please use the Hostess Code PCEB46Q4 when you order from my website if you order before May 30th by noon.

Thanks for checkin' in with me.  

Blessings and Enjoy!

Carol

Masking - Stampin' Up! Flowering Fields No layers card

I needed a no layer card and wanted to use my favorite stamp set from Sale a Bration, Flowering Fields.

This card is so easy to make and you can use any stamp set.   The card is very vanilla 5 1/2" X 8 1/2" scored at 4 1/4".   I took a piece of printer paper, 5 1/2" X 4 1/4" and started to cut the center, then used my fingers to tear out the center, making a frame.   I using some temporary adhesive and placed on top of the very vanilla card.   Using sponges I made the background with Soft Sky, So Saffron and Pear Pizzazz inks.  I removed the frame mask and used basic black ink and stamped the banner from the Number of Years stamp set on the sponged card and stamped it again on a post it note.  I fussy cut the banner stamped on the post it note and set it aside.  Next I stamped "happy birthday" using basic black ink in the banner on the card.   Next I placed the post it note stamped banner over top the stamped banner on the card.  I used the E block and placed all 4 flower stamps on the block, aligning them up the bottom.  I inked the flowers in black staz on ink and stamped them on the sponged card.  I removed the post it note banner (this is a mask).. .  The banner does not have any of the flower stems, thanks to the mask.  I colored the flowers with markers that are the same colors that I sponged with and a few more colors too.

Only a few days left to order from the current Annual Catalog and the Occasions catalog...  A few things:  prices for card stock are going up as well as DSP 6x6 stacks.   Also, bundle prices that are in the annual catalog and occasions catalog will not be available in the new catalog.   If the items are not being retired, they will still be available for purchase, but separately.

I am putting in my last order on Monday, May 30th.   I just took inventory of my card stock and I need 8 different colors, so I plan on ordering them in this order.   Need card stock but don't want to order a whole package?  Remember, I split card stock in half or thirds so you receive either 12 sheets or 8 sheets.   Just need to know what colors.    Want to order anything else?  You can order from my website or you can contact me and I will add your order to the order I am putting in on the 30th.   If you order from my website please use Hostess Code PCEB46Q4..  This code will be in effect til Monday the 30th, til about 2pm.

Hope you have a great day and get some Stampin' done.

Stampin' News from Maryland and Florida

  WOW, this has been a long couple of weeks.   Some stampin' was going on but mainly lots of visiting with friends and family back in Maryland.   I enjoyed spending time with my girls and their little ones (and not so little ones), just wished we could have spent more time together instead of them having to work.   

While I was in MD, I attended a Demonstrator Meeting in PA with fellow demonstrators, sharing, demonstrating, and stampin'.  Always a great time and I even won a couple of prizes.   One of the new In Color card stocks - Emerald Envy (green!) and Melon Mambo thick baker's twine.    We stamped some cards using Flower Shop and the punch and all the new In Colors.   

I held a stamp class....we made 3 cards and a small gift holder - this one held 2 tea bags and 2 Honey straws.....Great for a get well, or a tea themed event.  You could put a Ghiradelli chocolate in it instead, or money, gift card.  So simple and made with the Envelope punch board.   The cards were fun birthday cards, which could be changed into almost any type of card, just switch out the sentiment. 

Here are the cards and tea bag holder....with the honey straws..

I have received a few catalogs with more to arrive next Wednesday, here in FL.  Maryland ladies....I will bring them with me when I come up.  Want a copy?  contact me to receive yours.

A few dates to remember....   The current catalog and Occasions catalog are available thru May 31st.   The New Catalog will start June 1st.

If there is a stamp set that is part of a Bundle (15% off), those bundles will not be available after May 31st......even if the stamp set is in the new catalog.   Bundles are only available when they are first introduced....Occasions catalog bundles that the stamp sets and framelits or punches that are being carried over to the new catalog, will be at regular prices, no bundles.  

Paper prices are going up....Card stock and  some specialty papers will cost more.   Stock up on your card stock by May 31st.    I also offer card stock and paper shares too.  DSP shares, I will split a 12x12 DSP pack with 2 people, one full sheet of each design per person...to mail it, will cut those sheets into 6x6 pieces for easier mailing.  Card stock shares are with 2 or 3 people, depending on whether you want 8 or 12 sheets per color...Choose 8 sheets, and you need to choose 3 colors of card stock, 12 sheets and you need to choose 2 colors....These card stock shares do not include Whisper White or Very Vanilla.  Contact me if you wish to split those card stocks and I will give you the details.

When placing an order thru my website, please use Hostess Code PCEB46Q4 until May 31st.   Any orders placed in May (my Stampin' Up! Anniversary month - 12 years) will receive FREE shipping.   If you order from my website in May, I cannot give you the FREE shipment on the site, however contact me to receive it.

Stampin' Up!'s Retiring List, My most CASEd card from recent classes and Emma

U
  The Retiring List came out today from Stampin' Up! The List is on my website, under Shop Now stamps sets as well as accessories.   Some of the accessories are while supplies last, so don't delay, order them today.  Use Hostess Code 67RXUS7V.  

  The new catalog is available for demonstrators to see online and those attending ONSTAGE last week received theirs, however I have not checked it out yet....soon.   We will be able to order them soon and I will be passing some out in Maryland and when I return home to Florida.   Want one?  Just contact me for yours.

How many Stamp Sets do I have that are retiring?????  Email, fb or text me with your guess - The sets are all the current stamp sets in the Annual Catalog, Occasions Catalog and also includes Hostess sets in both of these catalogs.   The guess closest to the total without going over - will win a few items from me along with their choice of retiring stamp set that I have that I will not be keeping.  I do keep a few each year and will let the winner know which ones are not up for grabs.  Prizes for 2nd and 3rd place will be awarded too.

While in Maryland, I will be holding a Class -  May 1st, 1pm - Bellisimo's- Klees Mill and Liberty Roads 

   Make 6 cards, 2 of 3 different kinds of Folds cards, with envelopes.  Why 2, one to keep to copy again at a later tiem and one to send to someone now.  You will also Make 1 CUTE Gift item (not candy).  Cost is $18 or free with a $25 order the day of the class.  

   Florida friends, I will be holding the same class later in May.  

Here is my most popular card from my recent classes..it was cased from a card I received from another demonstrator 

It has been recreated you most of my class attendees.  Every couple of days someone tells me they made another one....

Here is Emma, she is 6 months old, I can't believe how fast she is growing and she got her first tooth today.

Stampin' Up! Weekly Deals, RetiringLists and an inspiration

tHe Weekly Deals will end on April 18th, a new program will start up soon after, but until then there are lots of weekly deals

April 18th is the date for the Retiring List to come out.    The In Colors from 2014-2016 will retire....in everything, card stock, ink, ink refills, markers, ribbons, designer series paper, embellishments!   So if your favorite color is Lost Lagoon, like me, I bought my car in that color, you better not wait til April 18Th to order it.   The In Color items are the first to go and they go fast!!!!

How many stamp sets will I have retiring?   Comment below with your guess, I will give the winner their choice from my retiring sets that I m not keeping.   i do keep some stamp sets for a few years, until I need to make room and decide which ones, I really don't use anymore.   I have some that retired 10 years ago, but I still use them.....Do you have some oldies but goodies?  Next week I will share a few photos of some of my favorite retired sets.

I have had 2 classes recently, one in Florida and One in Maryland.   Here are 2 of the cards we did, the first card I copied from another demonstrator who sent me and the 2nd card i copied from a demo's blog, Elaine's Creations 

There are lots of places for inspiration, enjoy and be creative 

Carol Valentine

Stampin Masculine cards, CASEd from Pinterest

Met with a Stampin friend  this week and we made some masculine cards.

Thanks to those who came and played Bingo with me last week....If you would like to join us on Thursday evening, 730pm for about 20 minutes. I share something that I have been working on this week. Each person picks 5 numbers (when I post I am ready for numbers) between 1-75. At 740pm, I start calling numbers, and the first person to get all of their numbers called, posts the word Bingo under the last number called. That person wins the prize. No obligation to do anything but message me your address (if I don't already have it) Not many people playing so your chances of winning are good. You must be a friend of mine, not this page, so if you are not friends with me, leave a comment and I will Friend Request you, when you accept, I can add you to the group. Last night only 2 people playing, so the winner got her choice and the other person got the other item.

Stampin' Up! New Sale a bration items start today!

Today starts the new items that you can earn FREE with a $50 order.  Here they are:

These new offerings replace Sky is the Limit and Hello Stamp sets and Perfectly Artistic Designer Series Paper.   I can't wait to get all 3 of these items.   What is your Favorite Sale a bration (SAB) item this year?? 

Leave a comment telling me your favorite SAB item to win some FREE Stampin' Up! Goodies from Me.

Here are the Weekly Deals this week...starting today.   I used the Envelope Punch Board so much last week making the little Valentine treats to hand out.   It's not just for envelopes!  I will share a cute gift item made with it next week...

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To place an order for any of these items or any items, you can do it EASY...Go to my website and click on the SHOP NOW tab and shop away.....Don't forget, if you order is $50, you earn a FREE SAB item.   The Hostess Code for February is 7XR646QD, use the Hostess Code for a chance for some FREE Stampin' Up! items.   Everyone who orders, no matter how little or how much, gets their name put in for the drawing.  If your order is over $150, please do not use the Hostess Code, as you will receive Hostess Rewards for your order, as well as 3 SAB items.

Sale a bration is also the best time to join Stampin' Up!  Freebies all around.... Stampin' Up! gives you extra Stampin' Up! goodies.   Instead of getting $125 in Stampin' Up! merchandise (your choice),you get $155 in merchandise (all at your choice)  for the price of the Starter kit -  $99.   There is no obligation for anything else, just enjoy the discount...that's is what I signed up for, almost 12 years ago.   There is so much more to earn when being a demonstrator, at your own speed!!!  Want to learn more?   Contact me today.

Don't forget to leave a comment below on your favorite SAB item.   I will pick a winner this Friday, February 19th.

Enjoy!


Carol Valentine

Grateful Bunch by Stampin' Up!

When I first saw this set in the Occasions Catalog, I loved it, but then thought.    Do I really need another flower set?????    Anyone think the same thing?    Well, I started seeing some cards made with the set and coordinating punch on Pinterest and various Facebook groups that I am on and knew that I HAD to have it.

Like a lot of stamps I purchase, when they arrive, I ooh and aah over them and sit them aside and keep saving  samples I see made with them to my computer, but don't seem to get around to actually using the stamp set.   One of my goals is to USE what I BUY!    And one of the ways I am achieving that goal is to go to my downloads on my computer and bring up a few samples that I have saved and get the stamp set out and start to create, either copying completely or changing it a bit.   Then on Facebook, I created a group for a game, a bingo of sorts and I give the winner some of the cards I created.   The group is a closed group, but all you have to do is let me know either here in a comment or email me and we have to be friends of Facebook, then I can add you to the group.   It takes place every Thursday and starting this week it will be at 730p EST.   I will post that you can add your numbers and that is when all who are playing, enter their 5 numbers from 1 -75 in a comment under that post.  At 740pm, I will start calling numbers in a separate post and the numbers will appear in the comments below that first number.   When all 5 of your numbers have been called, you enter the word bingo under the last number and I stop the game.   Check the numbers and announce the winner.   The winner receives the prize that night.   Usually 2 new cards made with either a new stamp set or bundle from the latest catalog, or maybe a set or tool that I have in my possession that has been sitting unused....

Here is the prize from last week.  I used the Grateful Bunch and almost copied exactly one I had saved on my computer.   The other card uses the new Sunburst Die that I thought I didn't need!!!!! Then I started seeing projects and I have made a few cards with it already.

Let me know if you want to join in on the Facebook Bingo, so I can add you.  

I will be holding a Spring/Easter Stamp class here in Florida, in Rockledge....

Date:   March 10, 11am.   Making 3 projects.   Cost is $10 or FREE with a $20 order the day of the class.

Wear Green (my favorite color) since we will be close to St Patty's Day and receive a prize from Me.

Deadline to RSVP is March 7th.   Contact me to RSVP for this class.

Dates to remember:

Feb 15th - Last day to get some of the Sale a bration items.   A few new ones will start on Feb 16th

Contact me to place an order or go to my website, choose Shop Now and shop and order at least $50 before shipping and tax and receive one of the Sale a bration items free.   Please use Hostess Code at the end of ordering 7XR646QD.   

Feb 20th - I will be at Cornerstone Flea & Farmers Market 901 Talplin St, SE Palm Bay, just off Emerson Rd South of Waco Rd.   I will have a table filled with Retired Stamp sets, punches, Big Shot items, Cards for sale for $2 each.  Time is from 8a - 1pm. 

March 31st - Last Day to order from Sale a bration catalog.   Last day to get extra Hostess $ for a qualifying party.   Last Day to get extra goodies in your Kit for the same $99.   Contact me to find out more.

For those of you who would like to get together and stamp or scrapbook?  Me too!   I wish I had the space to have a group over to craft, but I just don't have the space.    Maybe you do, or know somewhere we could meet, let me know.   It's always fun to craft with others.   

Bloomin' Love so many ways!

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting some great women who get together and craft.    I planned a couple of cards and they each made one.   We used the Bloomin' Love stamp set and framelits, and they all turned out so different, it was great to see these ladies getting creative.   I wish I would have taken some photos, but one gal posted her finished creation.   Instead of a card, she made it into a refrigerator magnet.    Love it!



Here is the card I planned for them to make.

Here are a few more using the Bloomin' Love stamp set and framelit bundle.

Here is one we made at the Stampin' Up! Onstage Event that I attended in Baltimore back in November.    

Here is one more,, from my Sweetheart Class I held yesterday.

And here's a little treat I made, handed out about 25 of these to various people over the last week.   So easy, took Sam's - from Pootles.com.uk.   I made some in December using Andes candies which fit perfect.   This time I wanted to use chocolate candy hearts.....and that template was too big that I had to glue the candy down.   SO, I thought....you are an adult and you should be able to figure this out.   I sat down and wasted a few small pieces of DSP and it worked!!!   SO SO Easy with the envelope punch board and only a 3x3 piece of DSP!!!

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone

Sending Lots of Love

Carol's Wacky Wednesday Paper crafting Tiips

What to do with extra punched out, die cut shapes leftover from projects????


 Here's the first. When making a project and you need to punch out a image or shape... Have scraps of DSP or cardstock left over?? Go ahead and punch or die cut those shapes and store in a container . Then when you need a shape, image, you can quickly grab one and finish your project. Here is how I store mine, some old stamp cases hold bigger shapes, the heart framelits, larger butterflies. The small cases with compartments, I picked up at a yard sale for a quarter each!  I used an empty button container for the hearts I punched out for an upcoming class.

Do have some tips for storing punched out shapes? Share them here...either in a comment below or contact me, I would love other ideas too.  

Lots of Stampin' going on here in Florida

Here's some updates.....

My knee is undergoing Physical Therapy and still limited walking!   My "pimple" on my back was actually a cyst and had it removed removed a few days ago, stitches to come out in 10 days!

I did not win Powerball :(. You gotta play to win and I forgot to play....  I would have given most of it away anyway.   

Since I am limited on my walking I have been doing lots of stamping...  New products from the Occasions and Sale A Bration  (SAB) catalogs.  Now if I could get my computer working faster, I would have had this post done yesterday!

I started a Facebook group, it's a closed group and if you want to join, you must let me know either comment here or check me out on Facebook, Stampin' with Stampergirl.   This group is a "Bingo" of sorts..... Every Thursday at 8pm, you pick and post 5 numbers from 1 to 75 (under my post saying post your numbers).  You will have from 8 pm to 810 pm to post your numbers.  At 810 pm I will start a new post calling numbers, when all your numbers have been posted, you comment below the last number, "Bingo".  You will win the prize that I have made or decided to give out that day.  The prizes are going to be either finished cards or projects made with products from the Occasions and SAB catalogs....at least for now, I might change my mind at some point and have Stampin Up merchandise.     

Here are the cards that went to the first winner last Thursday, my Mom won....since there was some confusion this first time, I have sent each of the other participants each one of the cards....

This first card uses Flowering Fields - from the (SAB) catalog...Demonstrators who atteneded an OnStage event in many states received this one for FREE.  I mounted mine while I was still at the event in Baltimore knowing I could not wait to use it.  I stamped the image on whisper white cardstock and colored the images in with my markers and a blender pen on the melon mambo flower. I cut the butterfly out by hand and used the greeting from the stamp set, Enjoy the Little Things in the Occasions catalog and attached both using dimensionals.

This 2nd one, uses the Heart framelit and coordinating Stamp set from the Occasions Catalog.   I wasn't going to get this framelit, but a customer wanted to use it for her party next week, so I relented......OH I am so glad for her wanting to use that for her party!!!   After a few "broken hearts" in the trash, I figured out the best sandwich and plate for the optimum result.    I used the magnetic platform, with the precision plate (yes, I said I wasn't getting that either) magnetic side up, the cardstock, the heart framelit - cutting side down - and then one cutting pad on top.   I ran it thru the Big Shot, 6 passes total.   Then took the framelit and the cardstock still attached to it, and used the brush tool and foam pad that the brush comes with and brushed over a few times and all the tiny pieces came out and I just flicked the heart once to get the last bits out...   I ended up cutting 10 hearts out and took me about 20 minutes.  A great workout for your biceps!!!
I cut this heart out of a 5" x 3 3/4" piece of whisper white cardstock so that I could put the heart back in when I got all the little pieces out.   I added some Watermelon Wonder ribbon to tie in with the cardstock and ink and added some pearls.  I cut the greeting out by hand since I do not own the framelits to cut it out (yet) and put it onto the card with dimensionals.

This 3rd card uses the Sky is the Limit from the SAB catalog.   I knew the minute I saw it, at the Onstage Event - another perk to being a demo, we got to see the new catalogs early and  even receive some of the products from those catalogs FREE...... I also used the World Traveler embossing folder from the Occasions Catalog.  I cut the airplane out by hand and attached to the Soft Suede 2 1/2 circle using dimensionals.

I swear I use dimensionals for almost every card I make.   Where would I be without them?  trying to poke those cheapy ones I used to buy at the box stores out, only to have to waste a few, plus time and frustration with them.  

You guys are probably thinkin'   - what the heck?   this is a long post!   Yep, it is.   Sorry but I didn't want to leave too much out.  I didn't list the cardstock or the sizes of each, but if you have questions, please contact me.   AND if you want to play Bingo on fb next Thursday, friend me on fb so that I can add you, or text or call me.

Here are the items I used, if you want to purchase any of these items, you can either go to my website and order or contact me to order...no matter how you order, if you order totals $50 before shipping and tax, you receive a choice of one item from the SAB catalog, so if you are close to that amount, and need an idea of what to add to = $50, contact me.   Don't forget to use Hostess Code, RHRPRZWK, for the month of January to get in on the drawing for some FREE Stampin' Goodies, unless your order is $150 before S+T, then you get all the hostess benefits and don't use the Hostess Code.

ENJOY!

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