Sunday Sweetness!!

Happy Sunday to you!! Did you have a great weekend? Well, Josh and I hiked the "M" on Saturday morning to get the last photo I needed for my slideshow. At one point, I was pretty sure I was going to die of exhaustion...but I made it. :) Let's just say...I am out of shape. And I forgot how LONG that hike up the mountain really is. But, we have decided that we are going to keep on doing it. (I think I have a death wish or something.) We also went to see the latest Transformers movie yesterday. Is it the most thought provoking or deep movie...heck no! But, who said every movie you watch has to be that?! It was fun, full of action...and I have a soft spot for the autobots, it seems. Especially Bumble Bee...the animation they gave him makes me smile.

I sat down today and made some cards just for fun. I recently got some of the new Doodlebug product in a goodie box, and I ADORE it. Super adorable...full of glitter...the cutest stickers in the world...what more could you ask for? Tee hee! Here is what I got done:

"Sweet As Candy" Card
Supplies:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Stickers: Doodlebug Designs & Making Memories
Jewels: Doodlebug Designs
Corner Rounder: EK Success
Embossing Machine: Cuttlebug by Provo Craft (w/ Swiss Dots folder)

I also got some card challenges done as well!! This card is based off sketch #23 at CardPatterns. Very cute sketch to work with!

"You Brighten My Day" Card
Supplies:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Paper/Stickers: Doodlebug Designs
Jewels: Zva Creative
Ink: Clearsnap
Border Punch: Martha Stewart Crafts

This card was done for the current Shortcuts sketch challenge at Caardvarks. Be sure to check the sketch out...it is really fun!! Lots of great examples too!

"Indulge" Card
Supplies:
Cardstock: Pizzazzil
Paper/Stickers/Rubons/Jewels/Button: Doodlebug Designs
Ribbon: Renaissance By Design
Twine: Darice Inc.
Ink: Clearsnap
Corner Rounder: EK Success
Border Punch: Martha Stewart Crafts

And this one is based on today's sketch at 365 Cards blog. Sorry for the glare, but I wanted to be sure and show that it is a transparent card base. The second image is what it looks like on the inside.

"You Are My Cherry..." Card
Supplies:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Transparent Card: Shortcuts
Paper/Jewels: Doodlebug Designs
Stickers: Doodlebug Designs, Making Memories, Creative Imaginations
Ribbon: Bo Bunny
Corner Rounder: EK Success
Border Punch: Stampin Up

Well, I better get going for now. I have a review session to go to, and I need to get out the door! Hope you have a wonderful rest of your weekend, and a fabulous Monday!

Until later,
~Lea

It's a "Sweet 'n Sassy" Friday!

Happy Friday friends! I am sitting in lab right now, done with my assignment and sick of looking over my slideshow. It is time to put it away for now, and look at it later with fresh eyes! So, I thought I would take my little moment of down time to get a post done.

I have my card for CPS sketch 123 to share with you today. We were sponsored by Sweet 'n Sassy stamps this week. We love SNS...they sponsor us quite a bit and we get to feature their new releases often! I chose this June release set called "Beautiful Borders", designed by the lovely Tami Mayberry...owner and sketch designer of the CPS blog! Isn't she just full of talent!!

"We Don't Stop Playing..." Card

Supplies:
Cardstock: Wausau
Paper/Rubons/Journal Spot: My Mind's Eye (Laundry Line collection- Flirty)
Paper Frill: Doodlebug Designs
Pearls: Kaiser Craft
Ink: StazOn (Cherry Pink) & Clearsnap Chalk Ink (Maroon)
Corner Rounder EK Success

Be sure to go and check out what the other CPS gals have come up with this week...lots of gorgeous cards (as always)! I hope that you all have a wonderful weekend. I have one last shot to take for my slideshow, and it requires a bit of a hike up the side of the mountain. Josh and I are doing that on Saturday...so wish us luck. I am not much of a hiking type...but its got to get done! :) We are going to go see the new Transformers movie this weekend as well...we waited for a bit so that the theatre wouldn't be as crowded (hopefully anways!).

Until later,
~Lea

Publication Stuff!!

Can you all believe it...another post so soon?! Tee hee! I am way past due on reposting my projects that were published in both April and May issues...so here we go!

I am going all over the place here, and starting with the May issue of Cards Magazine first off. If you aren't a subscriber, or don't get a designer's copy...than you most likely aren't aware that I was the featured designer in the May issue! Very exciting! These are the three cards I did for the feature. These are the other cards that I had in the May issue. Lots of weddings, owls, woodland animals...hmmm.
Now moving on to the April issue of Cards Magazine. The cover was mine in April, and this was the card that was featured on it. I remember when they requested this card for the cover....they wanted me to take the bunny ears off!! I begged to keep them on, and offered up another suggestion to make the card work better...and they agreed! So happy that this was the case...the bunny ears are my favorite part of the entire card!!
And these are the other cards that I had in the sections of the April issue. This card was published in the Cards & Tags section of the May issue of Scrapbook Trends magazine.
And this was featured in the Scrapbook Trends Stamping Idea Book.
Well, that is everything I have to share with you for now. School is SO busy this week! We had class today from 9a-6p, and then studio from 7-10p. Studio was a lot of fun tonight...we worked in a small group and then a little larger group...lighting group shots together. Well, we have all gotten pretty close since we spend what feels like every waking moment together right now...so we had some major fun shooting as a group!

Tomorrow I have class again from 9a-6p, and then peer to peer critique from 7-930p. But, Thursday I get a little break...and only have class from 2-6pm. BUT...I will be spending most of my time working on my slideshow that is due Monday, and putting my lighting final together that is due on Friday. Craziness...but I am SO loving it.

Once again...thank you all for your supportive and encouraging comments. I read them all when I get a quiet moment, and they so make me smile. They remind me that even though I have had to take some pretty large steps back from one of my favorite things in the whole world (paper crafting)....I have a friend in you even if I don't have as much to share lately.

Until later,
~Lea

One month later....

One month later, I realize that I am the worst blogger in the world!! :) Photography school is my entire life right now...minus the occasional minutes I get to put towards my scrapbooking commitments. I will have photos to share with you soon...I just got finished shooting my midterm slide show and now have to edit and compose the actual slide show. But, here is how photography school has gone for me, and they basically told us up front that it would happen. I went into school being able to COMPOSE good shots in an auto mode (aperture priority, shutter priority...not full on auto). Got to school, and began learning how to master my camera in manual mode....but my composition went way down. Now that I am pretty confident in manual mode, my camera dials and exposure...my composition is coming back. I got some really great shots at a rodeo last weekend, and my slideshow shots are awesome...well, I think they are awesome anyways! I promise I will share them with you when I am done.

Now, I think I should probably share some projects with you!! I haven't updated in so long...so here we go. First up are some of my CPS cards. We'll start with the latest one and work backwards...this was for last week's sketch. We were sponsored by Rennaisance By Design...and you already know that I adore her product! Some of my fave stamps ever!
The week before that we were sponsored by My Sentiment Exactly. I honestly adore this stamp set that I got...isn't the tree just fabulous?!The week before that we were sponsored by 2 Red Bananas....isn't that little chick adorable?! Love how well it matched with these Cosmo papers!
And last, but not least, the last week I haven't shared with you...we were sponsored by Hanna Stamps. Isn't that little moose adorable? His name is Riley...and I think he is so darn cute!!
Next up are the past two Vintage Plum kits. First up are my projects for this month's kit called "Cherry Pie". LOTS of fabulous product in it...be sure to check it out!!




And since I haven't had a chance to share my projects from the June kit...here they are. While we were in Texas, we went to this little game farm that had recently aqcuired two fawns from a game warden that found them abandoned. This farm will be keeping them for the rest of their lives now, to use as an educational tool. Well, we were at the farm during the week day when no one else was there, and the owner allowed us some special interaction with the fawns. This is the baby girl fawn...I will be doing some layouts later about the baby boy fawn. He was a riot, and definitely not subdued like this little girl!



Well, that is all I have for now. I have some stuff I need to work on, so I better get going now. If you still check out my blog...thank you! I am going to try to be more faithful about posting again...but I hope you understand if it isn't as frequent as I once was.

Hope that all of my crafty friends are doing well...and I hope to get back into blog/sketch challenges again once school is over! HUGS to you all!

Until later,
~Lea

OMGosh...I actually am alive!!

Hi friends!! I am alive and well! Sorry I haven't updated in so long. We had a great time in Texas with Josh's parents, and I started school on Monday. I have been super busy this week- long days, lots of information...but I am loving it. I am actually coming to you live from class- our laptops are getting checked, so we have some downtime. I hope to have some time to check out what everyone has been up to over the weekend!

I have a couple Provo Craft projects to share with you today. These are my May projects, and I was assigned to do 3 home decor items. First up is this family sign, using the Home Decor, Lyrical Letters & Plantin Schoolbook cartridges and my Cricut Expression. Up next, I was assigned a glass etching project. I cut the chandelier from vinyl, and then stuck the negative image directly to the glass. Then I followed the direction on the etching creme, and this is what it did. I think it is pretty neat!

And last, are just some blocks that I decorated to match the set. These can be used as a centerpiece, a wall hanging...anything your heart desires!
Well, I better get going for now! Time to get back to school. I hope you have a wonderful day. I will start sharing photos once we start shooting!

Until later,
~Lea

On vacation!!

Sorry I haven't updated in over a week!! Life has just been over the top crazy. My official last day at work was yesterday, and today we fly to Texas to visit Josh's parents for a week. So- I doubt I will be updating my blog again until next weekend, after we get home. But, I will leave you with a few cards!

This is my card for sketch 117 at CPS. We were sponsored by Stamping Bella this week..isn't this Bella adorable?! And these were the cards published in the March issue of Cards Magazine. Enjoy!


Well, I am signing off for now! I will be back next weekend- so please don't lose faith in my blogging! Tee hee!

And just think- I start photography school on the Monday after we get back (June 1st), so I am going to have a lot of fun things to start sharing along with my crafting!!

I hope you have a wonderful week!
~Lea

Casey's Prom{s}

Well, I have some prom photos to share with you tonight! First up is the prom he went to here in Missoula with his friend Bobbi. Isn't she a cutie! We had just a quick time of taking photos in downtown Missoula, and these ones are my faves. Click on them to make them larger- they look better!

And this was at the end of the runway of their "Grand March".
Now these photos are of his prom in Sheridan. I went out with just Casey for a bit, and we took shots of him in his tux. Had to get some in, what I think he calls his, "stunna shades".
Now were getting a little bit more standard portrait style.
And then we start having fun again! The GQ look.
I am not sure what this one is called...the Land's End look?
And here are his dates, Kelsie and Tori. Could this shot BE any cuter?! I think it is my very fave!
I had to add this shot of Kelsie. I think she looks so sweet and so stunning in it!
And a full shot of them so you can see their dresses.
I let Casey take my car for the night, and now I have sweet little Kelsie sparkles all over in it from her dress. I actually love it!

Well, I hope that you like the photos!! I haven't had a lot of time for crafting this week, so you might get another photo post before you get another crafting post! But, I have some wedding photos to share with you!!

On another note...can I just say that Adobe Lightroom rocks my world? Photoshop CS4 and Lightroom 2.0 were my last purchases for starting photography school, and they just came over the weekend. After just a few nights of using it...I completely understand why they say I will use Lightroom way more than I use photoshop. It. is. awesome.

And, now I leave you on that note. Have a great night!

Until later,
~Lea

Vintage Plum May Kit: Primary School Summers

It is release day for the May kit at Vintage Plum! Every kit at VP just keeps getting better and better....you will love it! Be sure to go on over and check it out, and check out the designer gallery. Lots of amazing creations and inspiration!

Since last month I started with my layouts...this month I am going to start with cards and end with the layouts. Here are all my projects featuring the Primary School Summers kit! Hope you like!




Hope you liked my projects!!

Well, I got some really great prom shots of Casey and his date(s). :) I will share some when I have them edited. And yes- I did say dates. He went to the prom with two girls from his class. They are all just friends, so it wasn't really a "date"...and I am sure they all had a lot of fun!

Well, I better get going for now! Have a happy Sunday!

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 114 & April Provo Craft

I am so happy it is Friday!! How about you? Not that my weekends ever seem to slow down lately. Every single weekend since Easter has been busy with something it seems, and it isn't slowing down until the end of this month. And then I start school...which probably means I won't have a lazy weekend for at least 5 months! I bet time is just going to fly though...and it will be all worth it at the end!

Now to some real quick business items...I have not heard from the winner of my prize for the Cuttlebug Blog Hop last Friday. If you have contacted me via email, I DID NOT receive it so I need you to resend. My email address is jnllawson @ bresnan.net. I looked at your profile, but there was no way to contact you...so please get in touch with me so I can get your prize off. Once again...here is the winning comment:

bevyb said... I have Lilies in my garden but not a stargazer. First thanks for the little extra giveaway. During the week after a long work day I just relax with some ice tea and become a couch potato. On the weekends it time to relax by creating. May 3, 2009 1:21 PM

If I haven't heard from the winner by Monday, I will pick a new winner and post it on my blog. I will also contact you if there is a way to do so via your profile.

Now, I have some crafty things to share with you today! First up is my card for sketch 114 at CPS this week. We were sponsored by Sweet 'N Sassy this week, and we got to choose a set of digital stamps to use. I chose the "A {Mush}room With A View" set....isn't it adorable!! This card with the cute digi stamp and the fun Sass papers just makes me smile!! And once again...I used my latest favorite ribbon from Renaissance By Design. Their ribbon just rocks!! Love it!
**PULLED FOR PUB**

And I have my April projects for Provo Craft to share with you today. I was assigned to do three projects that feature the new Lyrical Letters cartridge only. My first project assignment was to do a home decor box or frame. The letters and the swirly cuts are all from the cartridge. (The naked chipboard box and the felt flower is also a Provo Craft product.)

My second assignment was to do a card. This cartridge has a large selection of sentiment cuts for cards. I think they cover pretty much every card sentiment you could think of, so it is an awesome cartridge for card makers. You not only get all the letters in six different fonts to make your own sentiments, but you also get pre done sentiments that are fabulous!
And my last project was to do a chipboard mini album. I am SO not a mini album person, but I did my best on it. All the lettering is from the cartridge. I also used these fabulous chipboard shapes from Tattered Angels that come with embossing on them. I also glittered them up, which made them even more gorgeous! I think I found my newest favorite chipboard!



Well, I am off to Sheridan tomorrow morning! My mom's birthday was on Wednesday, Casey's prom is on Saturday, and mother's day is on Sunday...so it was definitely a good weekend to go celebrate!

But, I will be scheduling a post for Sunday....because that is the release day for the May kit at Vintage Plum!!! It is such a FABULOUS kit this month...I can't wait to show you what I have come up with! So, come back on Sunday to check it out! If you haven't heard of Vintage Plum yet...I encourage you to go check out the site. They are a new kit club, and everything in each kit features product only made in the USA. With the economy the way it is...I think this is such a fabulous feature. Plus- our message board is a lot of fun and drama free! So, come check us out!

Well, I better get going for now. I hope you have a fabulous Friday!

Until later,
~Lea

Be Inspired 30-Weddings/Anniversary

Another Wednesday means it is Be Inspired 30 at the Cuttlebug Challenge! This week's challenge is all about weddings and anniversaries, and we were sponsored by Creative Cuts and More. I got the cute Dress Box to work with, and ended up making this little card & box set.

I traced the dress shape twice on white Bazzill Bling before putting it together, one for covering the front of the box, and the other to make a matching dress accent for the card. I then embossed both dress cuts and the cardbase with my Swiss Dots folder. After that I added the pink tulle skirts to each dress, and covered the seam with ribbon and a glittered flower with a rhinestone center. The rest is pretty self explanatory. I think they are pretty sweet! ;) Be sure to head over to the Cuttlebug Challenge blog and check out the rest of the projects! Lots of eye candy!

And don't forget that we have some AMAZING grand prizes for two lucky participants this month. The grand prize winner will receive an Epson Artisan 700 All-In-One printer and three months of print cartridges for it. The runner up will receive a Cricut Expression, with one extra cartridge in addition to the two that come with it, and a caddy from Scrapcessories. All you have to do is participate...and the more you participate, the better your chance is to win! Good luck, and the winners will be announced on June 1st (the day I start photography school...so there are going to be at least THREE happy people that day! Tee hee!)

So- could American Idol have been ANY more of an Adam lovefest last night? I know this is his genre and all...but seriously. The practically threw themselves down at his feet, bowed to him, and kissed the ground he walked on....while giving the rest of them pretty much "meh" responses. I can tell you what it did make me do. I sat and dialed Danny's call number FOREVER. I normally call in a couple of times and then get bored. But not this time around! His performance wasn't perfect, but he took a HUGE risk when the rest of them totally didn't. And if he HAD done a song like "Cryin" by Aerosmith like Kara suggested...they would have gotten on him for not taking a risk. So- whatever. I am done with the AI judges and their lovesick crush on Adam Lambert....GO DANNY GOKEY!!

Well, I better get going for now. I hope you have a fabulous Wednesday!

Until later,
~Lea

What a weekend!!

Well, what a fun weekend we had! Not only was the Cuttlebug Spa Weekend a huge hit, so was the Vintage Plum crop. My little brother also went to prom with a girl he knows from here in Missoula, so I got to take photos of the two of them together before the event. I also got photos of their grand march, and I got quite a few really great shots! I will be heading to Sheridan next weekend to photograph him again for his prom- and I am going to get more time to get some shots of just Casey in his tux. He looks really sharp in it, so I will share those shots when I get a chance!

Thank you for all the sweet comments during the blog hope! I loved reading what you think of my flower, what you do to relax, and how you were having so much fun at our Spa Weekend! I wish I could send something to each and every one of you...but that really isn't feasible! Hee hee! :) So, without further ado, on to who won my random giveaway for the Cuttlebug Spa Retreat blog hop. Here is the random number that was generated:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:143

Timestamp: 2009-05-04 14:49:42 UTC

Which makes this comment the lucky winner!

bevyb said... I have Lilies in my garden but not a stargazer. First thanks for the little extra giveaway. During the week after a long work day I just relax with some ice tea and become a couch potato. On the weekends it time to relax by creating. May 3, 2009 1:21 PM

So please email me your address to jnllawson @ bresnan.net.

Now on to my projects from the weekend! I was part of the Baby Gift Sets post for the Cuttlebug Spa Weekend. I focused on the packaging for my project, and tailoring it more towards the mom-to-be versus the baby. I actually did this project for a specific baby shower that I was attending, and the gift has already been given. And the bag and card was a big hit! That always makes one feel good!

This tea cup gift set was done for one of the challenges at the Vintage Plum crop this weekend. It also uses this fabulous product from Renaissance By Design. Be sure to check them out...the stamps and ribbon are of amazing quality and awesome to work with!

Coffee & Tea Set

Coffee & Tea add-on set

Icy Pink Taffeta Edge Satin Ribbon

And this was for another crop challenge to make a card using the colors black, aqua, lime green, and red. This also features this ribbon from Renaissance By Design:

Red Satin Dotted Printed Ribbon

I can't say enough about about the ribbon from Renaissance By Design. It ties perfectly, the color is vibrant and gorgeous, and it is really great quality. I am very critical of ribbon because I use it a lot, and it drives me crazy if it doesn't tie well. I have been known to get rid of an entire roll of beautiful ribbon because it will not tie properly. It frustrates me that much. So, I highly recommend you try out their ribbon. They have some great packages where you get to variety of the different colors and styles that they offer. Here is the home page to their ribbon so you can see the variety. And here are some variety pack options that they have:

Custom 10 yard Ribbon Sample Bag: $6.00

Custom 20 yard Ribbon Sample Bag: $10.00

Random 20 yard Ribbon Sample Bag: $10.00

Well, I better get going for now. Hope that you enjoyed my projects of the weekend, and have a very happy Monday!

Until later,

~Lea

Cuttlebug Spa Weekend Blog Hop!

ETA: If you are confused about how the prizes work or just about the Cuttlebug Spa weekend in general..please see THIS post on Danni's blog. It explains everything wonderfully! The Stargazer Lily...to date it is my very favorite flower on this planet. Here is a little bit of info about this gorgeous bloom. (I did not take this photo...it is from google images.)

"Of the many different lilies that are available today, the stargazer lily is one of the true stand-outs. Its spectacular blooms, which can range in color from pure white to the more familiar shades of deep pink, can make a definite impression. Its dazzling appearance and seductive scent has resulted in a flower that can really make an entrance. Stargazers are floral celebrities – bold, beautiful and dramatic – and they're sure to make that statement for you, whatever the occasion may be." (Excerpt from proflowers.com)

And this gorgeous flower is part of our kick-off Blog Hop event for the Cuttlebug Spa Weekend at the Cuttlebug Challenge Blog! This weekend is all about pampering, indulging, and inspiring you! First I want to tell you the things I do to relax and pamper myself. I am not really a go to the spa kind-of girl. So pampering myself means cute and cozy jammies, a pair of darling fuzzy socks, a cup of something hot (coffee, tea, cocoa...I don't discriminate), a good movie or book, and a big blanket to cuddle in on my couch. This scene is even more perfect in the winter if snow is falling outside my window. Another way I relax is by shutting myself into my aqua nook of inspiration (aka: my scrapbooking room) and just creating the day away. There is nothing like it!

Okay- now on to the fine print of the Blog Hop. You should have arrived here from SPIKE'S BLOG. If you didn't...then go back to the Cuttlebug Challenge and start from the top! That way you are eligible for all the great prizes! Now, if you did come from Spike's blog, then jot down my name (Lea Lawson) and my flower (stargazer lily)....and then leave a comment. After doing so....head on over to BETTY'S BLOG to continue on in the blog hop! If you want to become a follower of my blog...you can easily do so by using the gadget over in my sidebar! :)

But wait...I am not finished! I have my own giveaway for one lucky person who leaves a comment on my blog during the blog hop! I have a full Scenic Route Sanoma paper collection (please note...it is just the papers. The stickers are not part of giveaway...I just couldn't find a photo of the collection without them!) to giveaway.
All you have to do is leave a comment on THIS post, telling me what you like to do to pamper yourself! I will close comments very late on Sunday night and pick a winner that will be announced on Monday. I'll announce the winner here, and I am pretty sure it will also be announced on the Cuttlebug Challenge blog as well.

And here is a little sneak peek of my project that will be posted on Sunday at the Cuttlebug Challenge.

Be sure to check out the Cuttlebug Challenge Blog all weekend long because we have TONS of prizes and TONS of projects for you to be inspired by. AND...we want you to join in with us too! There will be a Mr. Linky on every post this weekend so you can join in and inpsire us as well!

Now, be sure to keep on going in the blog hop and head over to Betty's blog!

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 113 & Glitz Mother's Day cards

Happy Thursday everyone! American Idol was pretty crazy last night, huh? Someone was pretty surprised that he was in the bottom three, wasn't he? Tee hee hee! I was sad to see Matt go...I have a special spot for him, even though Danny is my favorite. And how about Danny and Allison garnering the most votes?! That is pretty sweet!

I have a few cards to share with you today. First up is my card for CPS sketch 113. We were sponsored by Cornish Heritage Farms this week, using this beautiful stamp collection called "Ornamental Beauty". Up next are a couple of mother's day cards for Glitz Designs. This first card features paper and cardstock stickers from the Hot Mama collection.
And this card features paper from the Audrey collection. Both of these collections are two of my current Glitz faves!
And just a couple more things. I have hesitantly put the "followers" gadget on my sidebar. I have had some readers comment and email me that it would be easier to become a follower of my blog if I put it on my sidebar. I didn't add it to seem precocious, or because I think that so many people want to follow my blog...but I did add it to make it easier for anyone that does want to follow the blog. So there you have it!

And don't forget to check back tomorrow for the start of the Cuttlebug Challenge Spa Weekend blog hop!! It is the kick-off to the fabulous Spa Weekend we have planned for everyone, full of projects, inspiration, and TONS of prizes. Check out the details here, and I hope that you join us!!

Until later,
~Lea

Be Inspired 29- Mother's Day Cards & Envelopes

Another Wednesday means it is time for Be Inspired 29! The Cuttlebug Challenge this week was to make a mother's day card and matching envelope. We were sponsored by My Grafico this week, and used the "Shopping Boutique" digi images for our projects. Because the images were simple and graphic in nature, I decided to follow that theme for the entire project. I am pretty happy with how it turned out!

This first image is of the card. I used one of the "With Love" embossing borders for both the card and the envelope. This is the front of the envelope.
And this is the back of the envelope, where I tied in the border punch to match the card.
And thanks for posting all the fabulous "home" based sentiments on last week's post! And now for my two random winners of the Marks Company card kits are:

Amy: http://tsurutadesigns.blogspot.com/
Christine: http://changeofheart56.blogspot.com/

Congrats ladies! Please email me your addresses to jnllawson at bresnan.net.

Now- how about American Idol last night? These were my top 5 from the beginning, well Top 4 plus Adam because I knew he would be here, so needless to say I was a happy camper last night. They did a WONDERFUL job last night...and for the next two weeks I am just going to be sad when one of them goes home. And then on finale night...I will happy and sad at the same time (well, maybe just sad if Adam ends up winning. Hee hee!). They are a very talented bunch this year, and I think all of them will have successful music careers. Danny is still my favorite and getting my vote, but I really loved Matt last night as well. But they were all amazing...so I can't even begin to think about who will go home tomorrow. :(

Be sure to check out all of the other creations this week at the Cuttlebug Challenge...they are fabulous!

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 112 & Package Repurposing

Wow- I am sure glad it is Friday. How about you? I am looking forward to a fairly quiet weekend of crafting, photo editing, some cleaning (not so fun), and attending a dinner for a friend that is coming into town.

Well, this week I am a reader/participant at CPS, instead of a designer. :) I ran out of time before leaving for my cousin's wedding last week, and couldn't get my card done. So- I did one last night for sketch 112, because the sketch is awesome and I didn't want to skip it completely. Should I link up to Mr. Linky? Tee hee!

I did this little project in celebration of Earth week for the Vintage Plum blog. Instead of throwing away the plastic packages that the product comes in, repurpose it to hold a sweet treat for someone special! The great thing about this one is I made sure everthing can either slide off or easily be removed so you can wash the plastic holder and reuse it over again. The sentiment is stamped in Staz-On, so it should last for awhile. Maybe not forever, but just restamp it when you need to! :)

**PULLED FOR PUB**

Do you want to craft "with me" next weekend? Well, I am cordially inviting you to participate in two events! First up is the Cuttlebug Spa Retreat that runs from May 1-3rd, 2009. There are a TON of prizes, inspiration, and projects all weekend long. Check out all the information on the event HERE...it is going to be fabulous!

And I will also be part of an online crop at Vintage Plum as well. Please join us at Vintage Plum on May 2nd - 3rd from 12pm cst for our VP Online Crop. We will have layout challenges, card challenges, altered projects and games. Prizes will be awarded for every challenge and game. All challenges will be due by Monday 8pm (CST) to be eligible for a prize. The overall winner of the crop will be spotlighted on Vintage Plum's blog. They will be interviewed and have all of their projects made during the crop posted on the blog. They will also win a $20.00 gift certificate good toward a kit purchase in Vintage Plum's store. We hope to see you there!

Well, that is all I have for now! I hope you have a great start to your weekend!

Until later,
~Lea

Be Inspired 28-Home Sweet Home

ETA: A photo of the giveaway is now posted below! I will pick two winners next Tuesday night, and will be posted in my Wednesday Cuttlebug post!

Happy middle of the week to you! Since it is Wednesday, that means it is time for another Cuttlebug Challenge. Be Inspired 28 is all about Home Sweet Home, and we were sponsored by Marks Paper Company this week. We got these fabulous papers....such great colors and a vintage feel! Thanks much....they were fun to work with!

This is what I came up with for the challenge this week....the sentiment is pretty original, huh? Tee hee! I didn't even think about that when putting the card together! I embossed the right hand side of the card with the "Just My Type" embossing borders and my Cuttlebug, of course. Then I just pieced the house together, and added the sentiment and embellishments. Easy peasy! "Home Sweet Home" card supply list:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Paper: Marks Paper Company
Chipboard: Heidi Swapp
Stickers: Making Memories
Rub-ons: KI Memories
Jewels: Doodlebug Designs
Ink: Clearsnap
Embossing Machine: Cuttlebug by Provo Craft (w/ Just My Type borders)

I have a little giveaway on this post this week. I don't have a photo of it right now...but I will get one taken and uploaded when I have enough light. But, there will be two kits to giveaway, each kit featuring some 6x6 sheets of Marks Paper Company, trim, buttons, flowers, and some chipboard. All you have to do is leave me a comment on THIS post, telling me what your favorite home sentiment is. Can't wait to hear from you!
How about American Idol tonight? Kris rocked it....probably the best of the night. Danny, Allison, and Matt were fabulous. Adam- I just can't jump on his bandwagon. He seems to annoy me more every week. And Lil and Anoop were blah. I REALLY hope people vote for Matt this week...he deserved to be saved last week, and is a much better singer than both Anoop and Lil. Here is hoping America got it right this week! :)

Well, I better get going for now! Have a great rest of your day!

Until later,
~Lea

Cutie Baby Braylon

My crazy weekend of photographing my cousin's wedding is over, and I am back into the swing of normal again. (Well, kind-of. I have hundreds of photos to edit, so life isn't THAT normal yet. Weird to think that this will be my normal day sometime soon...I am SO ready for that day!) Photographing the wedding went really well, and I am now even more exciting to take my professional course in weddings. While I don't have any wedding photos to share with you, I did want to share some other photos with you.

A couple of weeks ago I took my very first photos ever of a baby. Good photos...well, I think they are good photos anyways. ;) Braylon's dad works with my husband Josh, and they gave me the chance to photograph him! I was very excited for the opportunity. I took tons of photos, and these ones happen to be my favorites. How cute is it when he holds his fists under his chin like he is in deep thought...so darling! Loved capturing that in photographs!











I took a ton more, but those ones are my very favorites. Feel free to let me know what you think of the shots!

I will have some crafty stuff to share later in the week! Hope you enjoyed my photography post tonight!

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 111, 2S4U Kazan Sketch #24 & Use It! #6

Happy Thursday everyone! (I almost typed happy Friday...because today was my Friday at work! Tomorrow we head over to Helena for my cousin's wedding, which I am photographing!! Eeek- very excited, and a tad nervous.) But before I leave for the weekend, I wanted to share a few things with you!

First up is my card for sketch 111 at CPS this week. We were sponsored by My Cat's Pajamas this week...and we got some of the most DARLING stamp sets. For this CPS card I used the stamp set called "Puppy Love". So freaking cute...love them! Be sure to check out all the fabulous cards at CPS if you haven't yet this week...the girls all did a great job!
**PULLED FOR PUB**

I also got a second set of stamps from My Cat's Pajamas that I didn't use for my CPS card...but I did make a mini card set with them. The set I used for these cards is called "Beans & Bunnies & Peeps, oh my!". I really don't think the set could BE any cuter. Love all the fun sentiments in this set. I think the first two are my favorite in the set of 4...but I do like all of them! What about you?

And I finally had some time to head over to the 2 Sketches 4 U blog this week...it has been forever it seems. Life has just been a bit busy. This is my card for Kazan's sketch 24 this week...using some of the MME Bella, Bella papers that I recently received. They are SO pretty...love them!
And last but not least is the card I did for Use It! challenge #6. The challenge this week was to:
1. Go out of your comfort zone (subdued colors)
2. Use something you have been hoarding awhile (red heart jewel)
3. Use some of your new favorite items (MME Bella, Bella tree paper)
4. Heat emboss (sentiment)
This card also features the "Roots and Wings" and "Roots and Wings add-on" stamp sets by Renaissance by Design. I adore these stamps...they are so wonderful. Be sure to check out the link....they are fabulous!

Well ya'll...wish me luck for the weekend! The weather is supposed to be just perfect...which I am very excited about! I hope that your weekend is perfectly wonderful!

Until later,
~Lea

Be Inspired 27- Numbers

This week's Cuttlebug Challenge was inspired by the ever wonderful "tax day" in the USA. Be Inspired #27 challenges you to use numbers on your project.

I racked my brain thinking about this one. I wanted to do something more original than a "Look who's turning XX", or "25 years together". Those sentiments are wonderful of course, but I feel like I have done them a million times. So, I thought and thought about it. One day, the theme song from "Rent" popped into my head...and my idea came to life! This is how it turned out, and I just LOVE it! I embossed the white cardbase with the "Love Language Cut & Emboss Set" and then just layered the rest of the card together. What do you think? Cute, huh? :)

**PULLED FOR PUB**

"525,600 Minutes" Card supply list:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Paper: Fancy Pants, American Crafts & Sassafras
Diecut: Fancy Pants
Ribbon: Bo Bunny
Jewels: Westrim Crafts
Pins: craft supply
Border Punch: Martha Stewart Crafts
Corner Rounder: EK Success
Embossing Machine: Cuttlebug by Provo Craft (w/Love Language Cut & Emboss set)
Font: Century Gothic

And I want to make sure my blog readers know about the amazing Spa Weekend Retreat we doing at the Cuttlebug Challenge Blog. Here is the official invitation:

And HERE is the post with all the great details of that weekend. We are giving away over $1000 in amazing prizes, there will be a blog hop, and lots of inspiring projects posted all weekend long. I really hope that you schedule out some time in that weekend to participate because it is going to be a blast!! Did I mention that we are giving away a Cuttlebug every day, AND a Cricut Expression? Seriously....you need to attend and participate! Tee hee! :)

So, how about American Idol last night? Regardless of Simon saying it was too traditional, Danny Gokey was by far my favorite last night. He sang the song in a key lower than the original, and I think he added his own soul and so much emotion to it. Honestly...if he had changed it too much, Simon would have gotten on him for that. You can never seem to win with these judges, unless your name happens to be Adam Lambert (whose performance I didn't care for, BTW. Too much for me...the shreiking drives me crazy). Allison was my next favorite performance, followed by Kris. And I think they were REALLY hard on Matt. He did get a bit pitchy in the middle of the song, but I think the rest of it was beautiful. Anoop did a good job, and Lil was just "meh". She does nothing for me, and I would never buy an album. But, I would never buy an album of Adam's either....so there you have it. Any thoughts?

Until later,
~Lea

April CK Cover Option & February Publications

Happy Monday everyone!! Did you have a great Easter weekend? Ours was fabulous! We left Missoula around 10am on Saturday morning and made our way to Sheridan. We got there just in time for the Easter Egg Scramble at my parent's church. After that my dad, Josh and our cocker spaniel Sadie when fishing, and I went to lunch with my mom. Sadie came home a happy dog...but also a FILTHY one. The bathtub was black once we had bathed her...but she had so much fun and that is what counts!

On Sunday we had church, and then made our way to Fairmont Hot Springs where we swam the day away. It was awesome! The water is a natural hot springs, obviously...so it was very warm. And the cool air temperature being in the 50's made it just perfect! I don't think I could swim there in the summer....with 90 degree temps outside and inside the pool, yuck...but fall through spring it is awesome! The sun was out and shining...so I am a bit burnt. Not what I wanted to happen...but what can you do? :)

I have a couple things to share with you today. Someone emailed me and wanted to see the cover option that I did for the April issue of CK. Apparently the page can't be found on the CK website...so here it is. It wasn't picked, obviously...but I think it is pretty cute! Up next I have some February publications to share with you. I am pretty lucky if anything gets picked up for Feb and March publications, because those calls are going on at the same time football season is going on. I don't have much extra time for creating during those couple of months....so I don't end up getting to submit much. So- I feel pretty blessed when I do actually get something picked up! :) This layout was in the Valentine's section of the February issue of Scrapbook Trends Magazine.
And these cards were in the February issue of Cards Magazine.


Well, I need to go finish dinner and then I have some creating to do!

Until later,
~Lea

Vintage Plum April Kit "Hopscotch"

As I alluded yesterday, I am part of the design team for a new monthly kit called Vintage Plum. Vintage Plum debuted their first kit in February of this year, and are quickly gaining popularity! Vintage Plum has a unique characteristic, and that is they only feature scrapbooking products that are made in the USA in the kit each month. I think this is such an awesome feature considering the state of our economy these days. HERE is a link to everything that is included in this month's kit, and here is the Hopscotch Gallery....be sure to check it out as there are some fabulous projects this month by the new design team!

Without further ado, here are my projects for my first kit with Vintage Plum. Be sure to click on the layouts to see them larger....you will be able to read the journaling, and they just look better larger! :) This layout is about my cousin Jamie, who I adore. We are 4 months apart in age, and she has been one of my greatest friends my entire life. I am so lucky to have her! The other two babies in the first photo are our cousins as well. The four of us were born fairly close together. I didn't have a baby photo of just Jamie and me together, so I used this one. I think it is pretty cute! This layout is just about the little things that I take comfort in. I adore fuzzy socks, and my coffee with creamer in a super adorable mug.
This is a transparent layout about playing Farkle with the family. This was on our vacation to Big Sky last year with Josh's parents. I am awful at remembering how to score Farkle...but they do it for me! We have a lot of fun playing games with Josh's parents!
And I LOVE this card...isn't it just precious?! Because I am such a clean and graphic scrapbooker, I really wanted to find a way to use some of the cute extras that were included in the kit, like the doily and the old book papers. So, I used them on this card and I love how it turned out.
And last but not least, a card featuring the Pink Paislee product that is in the kit. We are going to be featured on the Pink Paislee blog at some point this month, and they wanted to see some creations using up their product that is in the kit. I, of course, took on a card for this one!
And last, but not least....I provided the challenge this month for our May guest designer search. The challenge is called "Feel The Music", and you can find all the details HERE. We would love for you to take part in the challenge to become our next guest designer! If you have any questions regarding it, feel free to ask! This is the layout example that I did for the challenge....featuring some product from the kit, and a little from my stash. :) I just love this song.
Well, I hope you like my very first reveal as a kit club design team member! I really enjoyed working with the kit this month! If you are looking for a fun and laidback place to talk about scrapbooking and life...come join us. We are drama-free and love talking about scrapbooking and crafting!

Have a happy Friday,
~Lea

CPS 110 & Be Inspired 26

Once again, we have been experiencing some internet problems, so I apologize for the lack of posts. I do have some cute stuff to share with you now that we are back up and running again!


First up is my card for sketch 110 at the CPS Blog this week! We were sponsored by Hero Arts this week...and the stamps are just fabulous!! I had lots of fun working with them, and I can't wait to break them out again! Hopefully I will get that chance in the next couple of days so I can share some more projects with you!
Next up is my project for Be Inspired #26 at the Cuttlebug Challenge blog. The challenge this week was to do an Easter themed project with embossed vellum. Well, the only vellum-y thing I had was the treat bag...so I went with it! I used a lot of Renaissance By Design product here. Check them out!! The stamp set is SO darling!!
Bunny Love Clear Stamp Set
Mineral Ice Satin Dot Printed Ribbon
Glassine Lined Paper Bag

So....any thoughts on American Idol this week? Danny, Matt, Alison and Adam rocked it. That is for sure. And the bottom three were definitely who I figured. I think I am a little sad about Scott leaving though. Vocally he wasn't as talented as the others. But, there is just something so endearing about him. I would have loved to have him around for at least another week, and would have been okay with Lil going home. She just isn't doing anything for me in this competition.

Well, check back tomorrow for another post! It is reveal day at a new kit club that I am designing for now. I would love to hear what you think about it!

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 109 & March Provo Craft

Happy Monday everyone! Did you have a good weekend? Well, it was the first nice weekend we have had this year- so we tried to enjoy the sunshine a bit! It is supposed to get cold again in a few days...you know, right in time for Easter Sunday! So- that is always fabulous (typed with a certian amount of sarcasm...I am definitely ready for spring to be here for good.)

We took the pups on a 2-mile walk yesterday. THAT was definitely interesting. Let's just say that Josh and I haven't been real great about training them on leashes because we normally romp around the backyard with them, or take them to the cabin where they don't have to be on leashes. Bailey likes to try and pee on everything even though he is fixed, and Sadie is scared of her own shadow....and other dogs, bikes, car sounds....pretty much everything! Bailey also thought barking and growling at every dog he noticed for the first half of the walk was a good idea as well. Come to find out, all he wanted was to sniff the face of one of them, before he became indifferent to the fact that there were other dogs around. Who knew? But, we still had a good time- and they started to adapt after awhile. We just need to do this more often with them...that is a goal we have made!

Well, I have a few things to share with you today. This is my card for sketch 109 at CPS last week. No sponsor that week, so I decided to play with some new Sassafras papers! Love them!
Now on to my Provo Craft projects for the month of march. My first assignment was to make a Mother's Day gift. I made a card, and covered this bath and body product using patterned papers and cuts from the Home Accents Solutions cartridge. I just love that damask cut on this cartridge...it is fabulous!!
My next project was to use a Sesame Street cartridge. I used the Sesame Street Font cartridge for every letter and elmo image on these projects! If you have a little one that loves Sesame Street...these cartridges are perfect for scrapbooking, party invitations/decor/goodie bags, room decorations...they sky is really the limit! I chose Elmo because I think he is adorable...but I would bet your child's favorite character is represented on these cartridges!



And my last assignment was to use the Sports Mania cartridge, and I created locker hangers for my project. They originally started out like this...in my little brother's school colors. But, they needed to be brighter....
... So the final product ended up like this! I agree that the red and yellow will photograph better in the long run for advertising, etc....so I can understand the need for the change. I am just partial to the colors above. :) These locker hangers are flat, so they can easily be laminated. You can then attach some magnets to the back of them, and they become a great locker hanger for your favorite athlete/team! They would also be great for decorating buses when a team goes to an away game- just use tape instead! You can also easily make them more personal by adding numbers, last names....etc. This cartridge would be really awesome for the booster club, for cheerleaders, for all the team moms out there, or any sports fan....it is really versatile! (And yes...it has more sports than football included on it!)
Well, that is all I have for you today! Hope that you had a wonderful weekend! Be sure to check back Wednesday for my weekly American Idol recap, and a special treat on Friday! (Okay, reading that back is really cheesy...but I'm leaving it. Hee hee!)

Until later,
~Lea

Be Inspired 25- Sheetload Shortcuts

Happy Wednesday everyone! First off- thank you so much for the sweet and encouraging comments on my last post. It really means a lot to me...more than you even know.

Wednesday (without internet problems...finally) means a new challenge is posted at the Cuttlebug blog. But first, if you haven't taken the Provo Craft Survey regarding the Cuttlebug...please go to THIS post, and click on the survey link. It is really important to the company to find out where you want them to take the Cuttlebug machine!

Be Inspired 25 is all about Sheetload Shortcuts this week! They sent us some clear and frosted cardbases to work with, and this lovely sketch! Very fun to work with!! My card is directly below the sketch- I did lots of Swiss Dots embossing on this one. Do you want to know my trick to adhering lace paper to anything? Spray adhesive. I promise...it works perfectly.

"Love & Cherish" Card supply list:

Frosted cardbase: Shortcuts

Cardstock: Bazzill Basics

Paper/Lace Paper/Chipboard: KI Memories

Rub-on: American Crafts

Ribbon: Maya Road

Twine: Darice

Jewels: Westrim Crafts

Corner Rounder: EK Success

Border Punch: Martha Stewart Crafts

Embossing Machine: Cuttlebug by Provo Craft

So- your thoughts on American Idol last night? Danny and Kris stole the show last night- they were amazing! Danny has pretty much been a front runner since auditions, but Kris just keeps gaining ground every single week. My favorite performance of the night was Danny, hands down. I told my husband last night that I feel like I connect with Danny when I watch him sing, and he said he feels the same way. I don't think they needed to be so hard on Matt- his performance wasn't bad. Not the right song choice...I absolutely agree with that. But, he still sounded great. I do agree 100% with Simon...."Apologize" by One Republic would have been an excellent choice for his soulful voice. Even my husband, who HATES that song, agreed.

And I totally didn't get the judges falling all over themselves about Adam's performance last night- I didn't think it was that great. Especially when you compare it to last week. And what is up with the constant change to his look? It makes me think he is a total poser, and that he really doesn't have a true identity- it is all about gaining popularity. Alison and Scott did a good job, just not my favorites. And Anoop and Megan were both bad. Not good at all. I wonder if Usher saw that performance of his song by Anoop...yikes. Just bad. My prediction (& hope) is that Anoop and Megan will be in the bottom two...and Megan will go home.

Well, better get going for now! Have a great day!

Until later,

~Lea

My life changing news...

Do these give you a hint?








Well....these shots are purely amateur. But, it is what I have wanted to do my whole life. So, starting June 1st, I will be attending the Summer Intensive, two professional series courses in weddings & editorial portraiture, and Advanced Intensive at the Rocky Mountain School of Photography here in Missoula, MT.

I don't often share very personal stuff here, but maybe it is time for just a little snippet into my decision. I really wanted to go to school for photography the first time around. But, at the tender age of 18 when I was very impressionable and a little scared of being in college....my counselor talked me out of photography because it was a journalism degree at the University of Montana. So, I pursued Business Administration instead, with my emphasis in both marketing and management. And you know what...I don't regret that decision. Having a business degree is only going to help me in the long run. And the fact that I have worked for the past 7 years in a business related field has given me experience that will be invaluable.

After graduating and getting married...I put that dream on a back burner and didn't really think about it much. I still took tons of photos and still loved doing it. But, we were so green in our new life, and I was fresh out of college with a large debt from said college to pay off. And while photography didn't become unimportant...it just became out of my reach for the time being.

Fast forward to when Josh surprised me with my first DSLR in October of 2006...the entry level Nikon D50. I was in love. I don't think in love even describes it. The speed....the settings...the clarity it shot with- photography came to the forefront again. I took hundreds upon hundreds of photos with my D50. More photos than I even knew how to edit. Along with taking the hundreds of photos...I started learning how to use Photoshop. I still only know a small portion of Photoshop, but I look forward to learning it inside and out come June 1st.

I started thinking a lot about photography school, and I learned about the school right here in Missoula. Lots of fabulous reviews from past students, instructors...even community members who have either know students or hired photographers that graduated from there. Starting in January of 2008...I was studying and devouring the website often. I think by July I knew everything they had to offer by heart. By November...I was consumed by it. I knew I had to make a decision. So- finally at the beginning of this year, I sat down with Josh and we made the decision. It was time for me to reach for my dream. To pull it from the back burner.

So, since then we have been getting everything in line for me to start in June. I have to quit my job in order to attend...so we have been saving. The financial aspect has been the scariest part for me, but we have it all figured out now. I can breath a sigh of relief, and actually believe that this is really happening. I can tell people that I am going to school because I know for sure now...I really am. That thought just makes me smile.

So, there you have it. A little bit of my heart poured out. I am excited, and nervous, and scared...but more peaceful than I have felt in a long time. I know this is the right decision for me and for Josh...and for our future.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my exciting news! If you made it this far....you are a saint. I will be sure to take anyone along on my adventure that wants to...just keep up with my blog starting June 1st. (Well...I would love for you to keep up with my blog before then as well. Tee hee!)

Until later,
~Lea

PS- I know that I mentioned a giveaway card challenge...and I still plan to do it. I totally dropped the ball this weekend on it, and I am so sorry!! Please be on the lookout for the challenge information this week! I promise there really will be one, and it is a great giveaway!!

Be Inspired 24, CPS 108 & More!

Hey everyone!! Sorry I haven't been posting much this week! Our internet has been whacked out all week long (along with our phone and cable...all the same company of course, so when they have problems...they have PROBLEMS!). So, I am just going to share everything together!

First up is my card for Be Inspired #24 at the Cuttlebug Challenge blog this week. We were sponsored by The Cutting Cafe this week...so be sure to check them out! The cute cupcake and sentiment were part of what we were given to use...aren't they darling?!

And we have a BIG deal going on at the Cuttlebug Challenge this week. Provo Craft wants to know what YOU would like to see happen with the Cuttlebug machine, dies & folders. Please go to THIS post on the blog, and read about the great giveaways we are doing, become a follower of the blog, and most importantly...take the survery for Provo Craft! The only way to get what we want is to tell them...so this is a great opportunity!!
Up next is my card for sketch 108 at CPS this week. We were sponsored by The Angel Company courtesy of Chris Franco this week...we got the cardstock, paper, and adorable stamps from her this week! So fun!
**PULLED FOR PUB**

And last but not least is this card I got done featuring the awesome "Darling Damask" stamp set and Mineral Ice Dotted Ribbon from Renaissance By Design. I just ADORE this set...and I see myself using it a lot in the future! And the ribbon...rocks!! Some of the best ribbon I have used! Be sure to check them out!
**PULLED FOR PUB**

So- what did you think of Idol last night? I found something out last night...I am just not a fan of motown. There- I said it. If it makes me less American...so be it. I don't like motown. I was kind-of "meh" about the whole night. I do adore Danny, and I actually thought he did a great job getting out of his comfort zone a bit. I don't think the dancing was corny at all...I thought it was fun and showed a different side to him. I normally agree with what comes out of Simon's mouth (although, he could have a bit more tact. But, that wouldn't pull in the ratings, would it?) But, I didn't agree with him about Danny's performance. I thought it was geat! I thought Adam was really great too. Showed his vocal range, and it was nice to see him more subdued, without the over the top makeup, hair, and clothing. Matt, Kris, Anoop & Allison all did great jobs as well...even if I didn't care for the style of music. But Michael, Megan, Scott & Lil...meh. My thoughts on who will go home tonight...Michael or Megan. What do you think?

Well, I won't post again until this weekend. I am thinking of doing a card challenge with a great giveaway...so be sure to check back. AND- I think I might be ready to let everyone in on what has been going on in my life, and what the big change is. So- please be sure to check back if you want to know!

Until later,
~Lea

Honey & Tea Gift Set

Yesterday was my first Spotlight Sunday at the Cuttlebug Challenge blog, and I did this cute Honey & Tea Set for it! Be sure to click on the link to get more details about my project!

It also features these awesome products from Renaissance by Design. Be sure to check them out- great prices, and great quality:
~Bee-Mail stamps
~Mineral Ice Satin Dot ribbon
~Square 8oz Clear Top tin

Sorry I haven't been a great blogger this past week! Life was a little busy with other things going on...so I haven't had a lot of crafty time! Hope that changes this week a bit...I need to spend some time in my room!

Have a happy Monday!

~Lea

Be Inspired 23- Punches

How is everyone doing on this fine day after all the St. Patty's celebrations? Did you drink green beer, or eat corned beef and cabbage? Well- I sure didn't. We had waffles for dinner, and watched American Idol. Pretty exciting, huh? ;)

Well, it is time for another Cuttlebug Challenge post! This week Be Inspired #23 was all about using punches in an interesting way. The only punches I own are border punches....so I did what I could. I like that the layers of punched borders give it a bit of a fashion look...like layers on a dress or ruffles. And every single piece of patterned paper used was from my scrap basket...so that is pretty great. Gotta love using up every last piece of this fabulous American Crafts paper!! I also embossed that great dotted border at the top using my Cuttlebug, and one of the "With Love" border folders. "Thanks" Card supply list:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics & Prism
Paper/Flower: American Crafts
Chipboard: Heidi Swapp
Jewels: Doodlebug Designs & Westrim Crafts
Border Punch: Martha Stewart Crafts
Embossing Machine: Cuttlebug by Provo Craft (w/ "With Love" embossing folder)

Be sure to hop on over to the blog and check out what the other gals did with their punches!! Lots of fabulous work!

Okay- so let's dish on American Idol last night. I was actually very impressed with all of them except....Michael (of all people...the one who should have blown it up because it is totally his genre) and Adam. Oh my goodness gracious...Johnny Cash and every member of the Grand Ole Opry that has passed on turned over in their grave last night during that performance. But, we all know he won't go home next week because he has quite the following. And I agree with that...he does have talent. But this week....BAD. Bad, bad, bad, bad. I wish I could just forget I ever saw it or heard it.

How about Anoop and Kris?! Talk about redemption from last week for Anoop, and I think this is the first time I have heard Kris sing and really felt like he could be a front runner! They both did an amazing job. Of course, Danny and Matt were fabulous. I think those two are my very faves as of now- two artists that I would buy an album from right now if they were available. Allison did a great job rocking her country song, and actually...so did Lil! I was very impressed with her...even if the judges thought the song choice was bad. I didn't agree with them on that. Alexis is was pretty much "meh", and while I just don't care for the sound of Megan's voice...she is beautiful, and I give her PROPS for performing the way she did with Influenza-B. That takes some fight. And last, but definitely not least....Scott. Vocally- he just isn't up there with the other contestants. But, I LOVE to watch him sing and play the piano. It is just pure joy exuding from him every time he plays, and it captivates me.

I have zero thoughts on who will go home tomorrow night. Zero- I have no clue who it might be. Do you have any ideas? Share your thoughts on that with me, and any of your thoughts on the Idol performances last night if you want!

Happy Wednesday,
~Lea

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Well, I posted my St. Patrick's Day themed cards on Sunday, but thought I would still give my well wishes today! And, I do have a couple other cards to share with you! First up is a card I did for Kazan's sketch #22 this week at 2 Sketches 4 U. A couple we know just had a baby boy, and so this is to go with the gift we got them. I also reached pretty deep into my American Crafts stash on this one...pretty old paper, but still pretty great paper in my book!

"Little Prince" Card supply list:

Cardstock: Bazzill Basics

Paper/rub-ons: American Crafts

Stickers: Martha Stewart Crafts

Jewels: MAMBI & Westrim Crafts

Corner Rounder: EK Success

And this is based on Kazan's Sketch #21 from a couple weeks ago. I didn't have the chance to use the sketch until this weekend...and I loved it! So, I had to make sure I got it done!

"Cherished" Card supply List:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics

Paper: Basic Grey

Chipboard: Heidi Swapp

Jewels: Doodlebug Designs & Heidi Swapp

Ink: Clearsnap

Corner Rounder: EK Success

Border Punch: Martha Stewart Crafts

So- are you ready for American Idol tonight??? I sure am..this is the first season in a long time that has kept my attention. Tonight is Idol gone country night...and it will be interesting to see how they all do with country music. Michael and Kris will be right at home. I think that Danny, Matt, Allison & Alexis (as long as she doesn't over do it, and isn't so vampy this week) all have the potential to do an amazing job. Adam could prove himself to me a bit if he tones it down, and maybe shows a softer, less showbiz side of him. But, he does have the potential to totally over do it as well. He is loved though...so no matter what, we know he will be safe next week. I think the rest of them have a high potential of failure on this one, unfortunately. They just don't seem versatile enough to pull off country. But- they could prove me wrong...we will just have to wait and see tonight!

Well, I better get going for now. Consider yourself pinched if you aren't wearing green today! :)

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 107 meets St. Patty's Day!

I was feeling the pull to make some fun St. Patrick's Day cards...so that is exactly what I did with my card for sketch 107 at the CPS Blog this week! Isn't the little pot o' gold cute?! "Luck O The Irish To Ya!" Card Supply List:

Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Paper: Basic Grey
Stickers: Making Memories & Darice
Chipboard: American Crafts
Rhinestones: Doodlebug Designs
Glitter: Ranger Stickles
Ink: Clearsnap
Diecut: Cricut Expression (w/ Paper Dolls cartridge)
Corner Rounder: EK Success

And this cutie shamrock card is based on Laura's sketch 21 at the 2 Sketches 4 U blog this past week. I finally had a chance to get to it on Saturday evening. I'm digging the rainbow of mini jewels on this one...how about you? :)

"Celebrate!" Card Supply List:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Paper: Basic Grey & Scenic Route
Sticker: Darice
Rub-on: Making Memories
Jewels/Glitter: Doodlebug Designs
Ink: Clearsnap
Corner Rounder: EK Success
Border Punch: Martha Stewart Crafts
Embossing Machine: Cuttlebug by Provo Craft (w/ Swiss Dots folder)

Well, that is about as Irish as this girl of German descent gets. Not a big fan of corned beef & cabbage...or green beer. But, I do love the shamrock....so maybe, just maybe...I will make some cute shamrock shaped sugar cookies like I did last year. I will have to see if I have time to! :)

On that note:
May your blessings outnumber
The shamrocks that grow,
And may trouble avoid you
Wherever you go.
~Irish Blessing

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 106 & Forest Friendzy

Happy Thursday morning! Well, I have some really cute cards to share with you today...so let's get started! First up is my card for sketch 106 at the CPS Blog this week. I also used some new stamps that just came in the mail called "Forest Freindzy"...a new set in the Kim Hughes Collection by Cornish Heritage Farms. Isn't this set completely and utterly ADORABLE?! Totally love it! Be sure to check out the link to the stamps so you can see all the cute images the set has, and here is a link to Kim's blog...she always does really cute samples with her collections. This card features some more of those cute Kim Hughes stamps, along with a Papertrey Ink stamp that makes my kind-of random sun. :) I like it though! My past couple of posts I have been using up some older Scenic Route papers...and I had forgotten how much I love the color pallette of this collection! I am glad I still have quite a bit left, although I have used a ton of it.
So- did you watch the results show for American Idol last night? What did you think of the new rule? I think it is definitely necessary...I almost wish they had the option to do it more than once. But, at least once is better than before. Chris Daughtry would have definitely been saved...although, he has done just fine on his own without winning Idol. So- I guess we will see how it works this season.

I pretty much figured it would be Jasmine, Jorge or Anoop last night..so no surprise there. I figured Megan would make it to the next round...I don't really care for her singing or twitchy dancing but I can see where she would appeal to some. And it made me chuckle how quickly Ryan had both Danny and Adam sit down. He knows that America isn't stupid, and there was no way they weren't safe. No need for any dramatic anticipation on those two. Hee hee! If you are an Idol watcher...let me know what you think! I would love to hear your thoughts!

Until later,
~Lea