September Issue- Cards Magazine

Well, I was hoping to get some cardmaking done this week...but I have been so busy getting some of my business stuff done instead.  Working diligently on my website....I feel like it is coming along quite nicely.  Can't wait to be able to share it with you!!

So, today I decided I would share the cards that were in the September 2009 issue of Cards Magazine since I don't have anything new to share.  It has been awhile since you have seen them...so hopefully they will still be a little inspiring! :)

Just wanted to give out a little reminder to the winner of my Glitz giveaway to email me.  I haven't heard from Nancy G. yet....so please send me your address so I can get your prize off to you.  If I haven't heard back by this coming Monday...I will draw another winner.

And my little brother, Casey, played his last football game of his high school career last Saturday afternoon.  Unfortunately, they lost to Wibaux last week.  We are SO proud of Casey's season, and really all 4 years of his high school football career.  He has made quite a name for himself in Montana Class C football, and has been noticed by many.  We know that we are going to see Casey out on that football field again at the next level!  Now we wait to find out if he makes All-Conference and All-State.  He should make both...so we are waiting for the good news!!

Well, I have to run to the post office and to Target...so I better get going for now.  I have a senior portrait session in Sheridan tomorrow...should be fun!!  I photographed his older brother last year.

Until later,
~Lea

I have a Glitzy winner!!!

Thank you all for participating in my Glitzy giveaway last week!! I loved reading which line is your favorite! So without further ado:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

53

Timestamp: 2009-11-16 15:32:06 UTC

Which means this comment is the winner:

Nancy G. said...

Your cards are great. I really like the Olivia line. It's like vintage techno.

November 13, 2009 8:50 AM

Congratulations Nancy G.! Email me your address at jnllawson at bresnan.net. (Sorry...don't need any more junk than I already get.)

I will have another post later today, or tomorrow! Have a great day!

~Lea

Plum Crazy....(with a little Detour)

Happy Friday everyone! Hope your week has been a wonderful one! I took some senior portaits in Bozeman this week....like hours before it started to snow there- so we got them done right in time! We are going to be leaving for Sheridan in a couple hours for Casey's game tomorrow. This is the semi-finals of the playoffs...and it is going to be a very hard game. But I have faith that they can win it...and make it to the state championship next weekend!! So- if you can, keep my brother and his team in your thoughts the next couple days. Kickoff is at 1pm tomorrow afternoon!

Well, I have wanted to focus on one of Glitz's latest lines today called Plum Crazy. I just adore this line...plum is all the rage these days, and they used it beautifully in this line. Speaking of Glitz Designs...don't forgot that I have a BIG giveaway going on at THIS POST. Be sure to read it and leave a comment in order to win all of the latest Glitz releases. All comments must be made by Sunday at 11:59pm MST. I actually had time to play at 2 Sketches 4 U this week!! This is my card using Kazan's sketch 39...still loving these sketches even though it has been such a long time.


And then I have a small detour....using the Glitz Design's "Detour" line on this card. :) I know...I know. Anyway...this uses the current sketch from the CPS blog, sketch 141. Hop on over and check out all the other cards....they are fabulous!!
Well, I need to get going for now. Have a fabulous weekend, and be cheering for my Panthers if you feel so inclined! :)

Until later,
~Lea

Glitzy Giveaway!!

Tonight I have a really fun announcement to make. These cards using Glitz Designs product will give you a little hint....
Well...if you haven't guessed, each of these cards use one of the latest releases by Glitz Designs. And I am here to say that ONE LUCKY WINNER is going to receive a prize to beat all prizes. This lucky winner is going to get two sheets of each paper in the collections, and one sheet of each rub-on and sticker pack. That is a whole lotta prize, if you ask me! :) Here is some eye candy of the Glitz prize....




Have you become a fan of Glitz Designs on Facebook yet? If not, now is your chance! Head on over to the Glitz Designs Facebook Page, and become a fan! It's the best place to find all of the latest Glitz information! You can also find lots of inspiration at the Glitz Designs blog, so be sure to check that out as well.

Now, in order to be eligible for this great prize...all you have to do is leave a comment telling me which of these paper lines is your favorite! No worries though...the lucky winner is getting all of them! I just like to know what everyone else loves! :)

You have until this coming Sunday, November 15th until 11:59pm to leave a comment. I will pick a winner and announce them the next day! Can't wait to hear what your favorite is! In the mean time...keep coming back this week. I have a lot more Glitz-y items to share with you!!

Until later,
~Lea

Oh Vanity Fair....

....how I love thee. :) I don't really purchase or subscribe to any magazines any more, but thank goodness for the internet. What a beautiful cover. And just for a little more pure eye candy...here is an outtake from the same VF shoot. Oh to be the one behind that camera. Something I could totally get used to. Can I apply to be Robert Pattinson's personal photographer? I promise to do a REALLY great job! Tee hee!
And the verdict is in on my favorite song off the New Moon soundtrack! Of course, I love the main song, "Meet Me On The Equinox" by Death Cab For Cuties. But, I always prefer to find a favorite on the album that ISN'T being played all over the radio and television and internet. So, my favorite on the album is called "Possibility" by Lykke Li. The Twilight series lovers all know that this book is all about heartbreak and heartache. I don't think this song could capture that any more perfectly. There is a part of the song that goes, "So tell me when you hear my heart stop. You're the only one that knows. Tell me when you hear my silence. There's a possibility I wouldn't know." I think if you have suffered deep heartache in your life, you totally get those lyrics. Anyways...do you want to hear it? Here is a Youtube video of it...listen to it fast- it probably won't be up for long!

Okay- now onto some crafting stuff. So- I am totally LAME, and didn't get my cute Halloween cards photographed until today. I know, I know. I am SO lame...I totally admit it. But, I don't want to not share them, so here they are.
"October 31st" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill), Paper (Basic Grey/Making Memories/My Mind's Eye), Rubons (American Crafts/K & Company), Jewels (Kaiser Craft), Circle Punch (Marvy Uchida), Corner Rounder (EK Success), Ink (Clearsnap).
"For You" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill), Paper (Making Memories), Jewels (Basic Grey/Darice), Stamps (Renaissance By Design), Ink (Tsukineko/Clearsnap), Corner Rounder (EK Success).
"Spooky Jack-O-Lantern" Supplies: Paper (Basic Grey/Making Memories/My Mind's Eye), Diecut (My Mind's Eye), Stickers (Making Memories), Chipboard (Maya Road), Button (Doodlebug Designs), Ribbon (Michael's brand), Twine (Darice), Pearls (Kaiser Craft), Ink (Clearsnap), Corner Rounder (EK Success), Sandpaper.
"Halloween Night" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill), Paper/Paper Frill/Stickers/Jewels (Doodlebug Designs, Ribbon (Offray).
"Trick Or Treat" Supplies: Cardstock (Prism), Paper/Felt Sticker (Basic Grey), Diecuts (SEI), Jewels (Zva Creative), Ink (Clearsnap), Corner Rounder (EK Success).
"Magic" Supplies: Paper (Making Memories/My Mind's Eye), Diecuts (Little Yellow Bicycle/My Mind's Eye), Rubons (We R Memory Keepers), Jewels (Zva Creative/Westrim Crafts), Ribbon (Renaissance By Design), Ink (Clearsnap), Circle Cutter (Creative Memories).
"Double, Double, Toil & Trouble" Supplies: Paper (Making Memories), Stickers (Glitz Designs), Chipboard (Heidi Swapp/My Mind's Eye), Jewels (Doodlebug Designs), Tulle (craft supply), Ink (Clearsnap).
"Spooky" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics), Paper (Little Yellow Bicycle), Stickers (Darice/Little Yellow Bicycle), Rubons (Basic Grey), Jewels (Westrim Crafts), Ink (Clearsnap), Corner Rounder (EK Success).

So, forgive me for not posting these BEFORE Halloween! Really.....I am just trying to keep the spooky sweetness going for a bit longer. Tee hee! Enjoy your day!

Until later,
~Lea

PS: Make sure you check my blog this coming Monday. I am having a GINORMOUS giveaway....one lucky winner of a huge lot of new product. More details to come....

Cards, more cards, & the New Moon soundtrack....

So, I am sitting here listening to this.......and totally digging it. I wasn't sure if I was going to like it when listening to the :30 clips on iTunes, but now that I have heard the songs in full a few times....really loving it! I am unsure of what my favorite song is yet....I will get back to you in about a week! Even inspiring me to create a little...which is a good thing since I have some assignments to get done! :)

So, I created a hodge podge of cards last week, and I thought I would share them with you! I was a little all over the place on themes and sentiments....so there is a little bit of everything! "My Deer" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics), Paper/Chipboard (We R Memory Keepers), Adhesive Pearls/Jewels/Flowers (Zva Creative), Ink (Clearsnap), Corner Rounder (EK Success).

"Sweet Queen Bee" Supplies: Paper/Chipboard (Basic Grey), Rubons (Basic Grey & Creative Imaginations), Jewels (Zva Creative), Ribbon/Stamps (Renaissance By Design), Ink (Tsukineko & Clearsnap), Glitter (Ranger), Corner Rounder (EK Success).

"Get Well Soon" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics), Rubon (American Crafts), Jewels (Westrim Crafts), Embossing Machine (Cuttlebug by Provo Craft), Embossing Folder (Swiss Dots by Provo Craft), Diecut Machine (Cricut Expression by Provo Craft), Diecut Cartridge (Everyday Paperdolls by Provo Craft).

"December Magic" Supplies: Card/Paper/Button (Making Memories), Rubon (American Crafts), RicRac (Wrights), Jewels (Me & My Big Ideas), Ink (Clearsnap), Circle Cutter (Creative Memories), Diecut Machine (Cricut Expression by Provo Craft), Diecut Cartridge (Storybook by Provo Craft).

"Toadally Awesome Birthday" Supplies: Cardstock (Wausau), Paper (Colorbok & October Afternoon), Journal Spot/Chipboard (Colorbok), Stickers (Basic Grey & Making Memories), Rubon (Making Memories), Jewels (Doodlebug Designs), Border Punch (Martha Stewart Crafts), Corner Rounder (EK Success).

"Believe in the Magic" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics & Doodlebug Designs), Paper (Basic Grey), Stickers (Basic Grey. Colorbok & Making Memories), Diecut (K & Company), Jewels (Doodlebug Designs & My Mind's Eye), Ink (Clearsnap), Diecut Machine (Cricut Expression by Provo Craft), Diecut Cartridge (Winter Woodlands by Provo Craft), Border Punch (Martha Stewart Crafts).

"Happy Halloween" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics & Close To My Heart), Paper (Glitz Designs & My Mind's Eye), Stickers ( K & Company, Making Memories & Darice Inc.), Chipboard (My Mind's Eye), Jewels/Rubon (Making Memories), Ink (Clearsnap), Embossing Machine (Cuttlebug by Provo Craft), Embossing Folder (Boo To You by Provo Craft).

"Owl Be Missing You" Supplies: Cardstock/Paper (Jillibean Soup), Pearls/Jewels (Zva Creative), Stamps (Cornish Heritage Farms), Ink (Clearsnap), Embossing Tool (Scor-Pal), Circle Cutter (Creative Memories).

"Angel Baby" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics), Paper (Cosmo Cricket & Sassafras), Fabric (Craft Secrets), Pearls (Zva Creative), Lace (Making Memories), Ribbon (Offray), Ink (Clearsnap), Border Punch (Martha Stewart Crafts), Corner Rounder (EK Success).

"Home Sweet Home" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics), Paper (Hambly Screen Prints), Paper Frill (Doodlebug Designs), Diecuts (Fancy Pants), Stickers (Making Memories), Rubon (KI Memories), Jewels (Westrim Crafts & MAMBI), Ink (Clearsnap).

"Enjoy The Little Things" Supplies: Cardstock (Bazzill Basics & Doodlebug Designs), Rubon (Urban Lily), Jewels/Button (Doodlebug Designs), Twine (Darice Inc.), Circle Cutter (Creative Memories).

On another note, I had a wonderful time in New Hampshire! The wedding was awesome...we got TONS of great photos, and I made some new wonderful friends. It was a great time all around! I will be sharing my favorites photos on my business page on Facebook, so be sure to become a fan of the page if you haven't already! Here is a link to it:

Elle Photography Facebook Page

I am hoping to have some images up of the wedding early next week, so be on the lookout. I will also be posting some senior portrait images in the next couple of days!

Well, I better get going for now. Hope that everyone has had a wonderful week so far! Casey's first playoff game is on Saturday afternoon! They are undefeated this year, and #1 in their division! We are hoping for State...but taking it one game at a time. Very proud of my little brother....as I always am!

Until later,
~Lea

Leave you with a little.....

....something to look at! I am on my way to Spokane, Washington....where I fly out very early in the morning to the east coast! I am photographing my friend's, Christi Spadoni, wedding this weekend! So very excited!!

So, I have a few things to leave you with until I return. These two cards were made using some of the new Glitz Designs product!!
And these were in the August issue of Cards Magazine!
I hope that everyone has a very wonderful weekend in store! I think I am going to be having tons and tons of fun!!

Until later,
~Lea

I promise I didn't abandon my blog....

But, I did have to just completely put it on the back burner for awhile. So, while I do apologize for not updating, please know that my break from my blog was very necessary. I also took a break from the CPS blog, but I will be back in full force come November 1st!! Photography school has been so amazing....and I graduate in one week!!!! It feels like yesterday I was shouting to the world that I was just attending. Now here I am....five months later. I have been calling myself a professional photographer for a little while now....and it feels awesome! I have decided that my main focus will be weddings and senior portraiture....but also plan to do all types of portraiture when I can. I really enjoy photographing teenagers, so that is why it is one of my main focuses.

I have a few cards that I can share with you tonight. First up are just a couple random cards that I actually got done in very brief moments of down time, and a couple CPS cards that I never got the chance to post. These cards were in the July issue of Cards Magazine.

And these ones were in the June issue of Cards Magazine.


So, I guess I can say that I am back up and running! I am still have a week of school left and it is going to be very busy...and I am flying to the east coast the week after I graduate to photograph a wedding for a friend! So- I might not be posting a ton of stuff over the next couple weeks...but I will try to post a few more times before then.

I hope that everyone in the crafty world is doing wonderful! I can't wait to reconnect with everyone, and get the time to check out what amazing and inspiring stuff you have been doing since my absence.

Until later,
~Lea

On the 8th week.....

....here is what I have learned about myself on this photography journey.

1. I am not very interested in landscape photography. I will not go out of my way to get that amazing landscape shot...it just isn't my thing. Now, I am glad I have a basic knowledge of how to meter properly and expose for landscapes, because if I just happen to be in a situation where there is a beautiful landscape...then I am going to shoot it. But I am definitely not going to be seeking them out.

2. I have affirmed over and over again that I do want to photograph weddings. But I want to photograph them in a photojournalist style. Way less posing, more real and candid. Obviously you are going to get the posed shots...but I want to show the magic that is a wedding, and you just can't do that by posing everything.

3. I have also affirmed that I want to shoot lifestyle portraits of people. I don't want to be Sears, or Olan Mills, or any of those types of portrait studios. They aren't bad...just not the style I want to take on. I guess I kind-of want to have a photojournalist take on shooting portraits as well. I want candid and posed, in places that mean something to my subjects.

4. I think I am really going to love macro photography. I say "think", because I don't have a macro lens yet. But, after seeing tons of macro shots, and having a 4 hour lecture on macro photography this week....I just have a gut feeling it will be my personal photography love. Sure, it might be utilized a little bit in weddings and portraiture...but I see it more as something I do just for myself.

5. Many of you know that I love to shoot sports...football is my favorite, of course. But I found out something this summer that I didn't know about myself. I REALLY enjoy shooting rodeo. And to be honest....I feel like I am pretty good at it. (And will only get better as I continue doing it!) So, it would be fun to find a way to work rodeos into my workflow.

6. Studio lighting is hard, but I am enjoying the learning process. I haven't gotten it perfectly correct even once yet....but I am trying hard! Even though I will not have a studio in the near future...I want to make sure I know what to do with strobes, backdrops, etc. And I really can't wait to be more comfortable with my external flash for my camera...I think that will make life even better for the type of portraiture I want to do!

7. I don't like shooting product. I find it boring, and uninspiring. We'll just leave it at that. :)

So, that is what I have found out about myself so far. I am sure there will a lot more once I finish with advanced intensive. I can't believe that there are only 4 weeks left in summer intensive...time has just flown by!

Well, I am doing a photo a day post on my Facebook account. If would love for you to check them out if you like! Here is a link: Photo A Day album

Here is my first photo in the album from yesterday...funny. It is a landscape! Tee hee! :)
I am not going to post all of the photos on my blog, so be sure to check on my facebook page if you want to see them! I am going to be keeping this blog primarily crafts.

Well, I better get going! I have stuff to get done on my morning off before school starts! Have a great day!

Until later,
~Lea

CPS 124- Berry Goodness!!

Happy Thursday everyone! This week has just flown by it seems!! We had our slideshow critique on Monday. I feel like it went pretty well. I was told that I take very powerful photos, and that with some fine tuning and a few added photos...the series could be publishable. I am not exactly sure what that means, and I have no idea where it could actually be published...but I'll take it as a compliment! :) I really want to share the full experience with my blog readers...so if you know what program I need to be able to make a slideshow of photos to music that I can post here...please let me know in the comments. We won't be learning multimedia stuff until Advanced Intensive (summer intensive is all about learning your camera, advanced exposure, and editing)...so it is something I don't know how to do yet. I would really appreciate any help or tips!!

I have one little card to share with you this evening. This is my card for this week's sketch at the CPS blog. This was a sponsor-free week....so I took it upon myself to use some more of that fabulous new Doodlebug product! So loving it!!

"Just For You" Card

Supplies:
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics
Paper/Paper Frill/Stickers/Jewel: Doodlebug Designs
Brads: Doodlebug Designs & KI Memories
Rubons: K & Company
Ribbon: Bo Bunny
Twine: Darice Inc.
Ink: Clearsnap
Corner Rounder: EK Success

Well, I have class at 7pm and need to eat some dinner. So, I better get going for now. Please let me know if there is a way I can post a slideshow to my blog...I would love to show you the photos!

Until later,
~Lea

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