tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80580238834718239752024-02-21T04:17:20.181-05:00SeaGlass PapercraftsChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.comBlogger613125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-44581119442002146522014-03-31T06:00:00.000-04:002014-03-31T06:00:08.943-04:00The 12 Kits of Occasions--March 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/March%202014/kit_zps3090c6d5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/March%202014/kit_zps3090c6d5.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hello, friends! Another month has come and almost gone, believe it or not. I hope it's beginning to look like spring where you are. This month's hostess for the <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.ca/">12 Kits of Occasions</a>, <a href="http://ginghamgirlsadventures.blogspot.ca/">Kelly</a>, has certainly set the mood for the coming season with this beautiful kit:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMl-Rs0UBYWNftFy2QXj9_HTDHfT0lvmrt4nhjcXJxKmvdErWVB0FCoUemMCe85KuYj98KQFXsq7sfYP8xz0rzUVdrwIwsa6W4DFXTTwHJN65w6nXAN-3DCL7QbmMbjp5ehf_u0qX48xvf/s1600/1926691_10203386000194147_1251188472_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMl-Rs0UBYWNftFy2QXj9_HTDHfT0lvmrt4nhjcXJxKmvdErWVB0FCoUemMCe85KuYj98KQFXsq7sfYP8xz0rzUVdrwIwsa6W4DFXTTwHJN65w6nXAN-3DCL7QbmMbjp5ehf_u0qX48xvf/s1600/1926691_10203386000194147_1251188472_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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As wonderfully filled to the brim as this kit was, I'm sorry to say I only managed two cards, and I just barely squeaked those in! I'll share more on what I've been up to instead of card-making in a future post. For now, I hope you'll forgive me for leaving so many lovely supplies unused (yet).<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/March%202014/kit2_zps6cee4281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/March%202014/kit2_zps6cee4281.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Full supply lists of every month's installment of the <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.ca/">12 Kits of Occasions</a> can be found on the group blog. You can also find links to each designer, special guests, and sneak peeks of each month's kit! Be sure to stop by and become a follower if you haven't already.<br />
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Thanks so much for visiting today!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-60597083305576257582014-02-28T06:00:00.000-05:002014-02-28T06:00:10.429-05:00The 12 Kits of Occasions--February 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Welcome back for another edition of <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a>! This month's kit was provided by Renee, and as you can probably tell from the beautiful graphic above (courtesy of Kara), our theme is everything SNOW!<br />
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Life certainly hasn't slowed down around here in the month since I last posted, but I snuck into my craft room just long enough to make 3 cards with the kit. Like Renee, I adore the papers from Crate Paper's Bundled Up, so this kit is sure to see more love in the future.<br />
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I made a beeline for the teal chevron patterned paper as soon as I unpacked my kit. This is such a fantastic winter color, and it pairs beautifully with the glittered silver snowflakes.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/February%202014/kit1_zpsd6816ac5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/February%202014/kit1_zpsd6816ac5.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Renee included some darling die cut snowmen, so I pieced one together and popped him up on a tag. The kit came with lovely red satin ribbon, but I wound up using some red twill from my stash because it seemed to fit the playful feel of the card a little better.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/February%202014/kit2_zpsc1501d64.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/February%202014/kit2_zpsc1501d64.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't often do pink and sparkles together, but I had a lot of fun combining them on my last card! <br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/February%202014/kit3_zpse0bea53b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/February%202014/kit3_zpse0bea53b.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Stop by and say hello to our Guest Designer this month, <a href="http://judyscardcorner.blogspot.com/">Judy Marino</a>, then be sure to visit the rest of the 12 Kits crew to see the magic they've worked with their supplies:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cathy Weber<br /><a href="http://emptynestcrafter.blogspot.com/" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;">http://emptynestcrafter.blogspot.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Jessica Davis<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Joyce Mehrberg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kelly Schirmer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tracey McNeely<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Thanks for stopping by today!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-90894643280535229222014-01-31T06:00:00.000-05:002014-01-31T06:00:09.169-05:00The 12 Kits of Occasions--January 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, hello strangers! Did you think I was never coming back? The last several months have been absolutely crazy around here, and crafting has definitely not been at the top of my priority list. But I have tried to escape from my responsibilities for a few minutes here and there this month, and so I have 5 cards to share with you for this month's edition of <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a>.</div>
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Our hostess this month is <a href="http://onpapillonwings.blogspot.ca/">Sharron</a>, and the theme is love and Valentine's Day. Sharron sent such a fantastic kit with a color combo that I absolutely adore as an alternative to the usual red, pink, and white. And many thanks to <a href="http://kandrdesigns.blogspot.ca/">Kara</a> for creating our beautiful graphic once again this month, giving you a peek at all of the goodies packed into our kits.</div>
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My favorite card was the first one I made, shortly after my kit arrived. I love the striped paper and the pretty script in the sentiment. It's hard to see in the photo, but the Sahara Sand cardstock was debossed with a music score impression plate.</div>
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/kit1_zpsd9bde066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/kit1_zpsd9bde066.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sorry for the shadows on the next card, but I popped up the die cut "happy" with teensy pieces of foam tape in a few spots. I used another of my favorite papers and some of the cute die cut accents from the kit.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/kit2_zps98b5c258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/kit2_zps98b5c258.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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How do you like these cute elephants? I think they're adorable, especially paired with the matching paper. Such a cute sentiment from Mama Elephant, too (of course!).<br />
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For my next card, I layered the pretty heart doily with the word "love", along with a couple of stitched die cut hearts and gold sequins.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/kit4_zps6c8efc84.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/kit4_zps6c8efc84.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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My last card is sort of a work in progress, and maybe you can help me finish it. I've had it sitting on my desk for at least a couple of weeks just like this, and I feel like it needs something else. I've tried buttons, twine, sequins--nothing quite works. I think it's ok the way it is, but it's just a little blah. Any suggestions?<br />
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That's all from me, but I have so many cute supplies left to use. I can't wait to see what the rest of the 12 Kit Designers created with them:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Cathy Weber<br /><a href="http://emptynestcrafter.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://emptynestcrafter.blogspot.com/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Jessica Davis<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Joyce Mehrberg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://cards-by-the-sea.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://cards-by-the-sea.blogspot.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Kara {kandrdesigns}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://kandrdesigns.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://kandrdesigns.blogspot.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Kelly Schirmer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://ginghamgirlsadventures.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://ginghamgirlsadventures.blogspot.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Kim Heggins<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://cupcakescardsandkim.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://cupcakescardsandkim.blogspot.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Marybeth Lopez<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Renee Lynch<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://itsapatchworklife.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://itsapatchworklife.blogspot.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sharron Gregory<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://onpapillonwings.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">http://onpapillonwings.blogspot.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Tracey McNeely<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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And our Guest Designer for this month, Michelle from <a href="http://prettyperiwinkle.blogspot.com/">Pretty Periwinkles</a>.<br />
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For supply information, be sure to visit <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">The 12 Kits of Occasions blog</a>, where you can also access information about our group and links to all of the designers.<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today! Have a great day!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-62872415457968751412014-01-01T09:00:00.000-05:002014-01-01T09:00:01.418-05:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Smitten and a Farewell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/CC_zps27d4918f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/CC_zps27d4918f.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy New Year! I'm looking forward to a wonderful 2014, how about you?<br />
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To help ring in the new year, we have a new challenge at the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call</a> that I know you're going to love. Say hello to this week's challenge photo: Smitten.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CJTTEyjziLyhFmt0ZqmAySZQBekLs9g_CVfdUehBw5DjcoP7ZwYh1rmtOe3O8QSiyzUAiHbjHgzTrMQnutirVjTlSP_ST9kbXNbgm5EV2owpERBNurbVAbJXpvj-HL5OgKaBCOsxuMoY/s1600/smitten.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CJTTEyjziLyhFmt0ZqmAySZQBekLs9g_CVfdUehBw5DjcoP7ZwYh1rmtOe3O8QSiyzUAiHbjHgzTrMQnutirVjTlSP_ST9kbXNbgm5EV2owpERBNurbVAbJXpvj-HL5OgKaBCOsxuMoY/s320/smitten.jpg" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">photo credit: </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://knitsandknotsweb.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">knitsandknotsweb.blogspot.com</a></i></td></tr>
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We also have a fantastic new sponsor for our challenge: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_523903241"></span>Linnie Blooms<span id="goog_523903242"></span></a>. Not only did Linnie Blooms provide the Faber-Castell Gelatos the designers used on their projects today, but they are providing a gift certificate to the LEAD for this week's challenge.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lindabarutha.com/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvPYdOnehd0QMlAMKvpaX40dOp-ue5kAqW86LxS6JkTfnAGyoXmNpB-etSoWtctGFXCzIbSDhiV8EZfLM6S4AFdDABdCqNUH2BPmgpOx2-_AEJXW-1MadvAMjoFonbtbnjbUorCOHjiCk/s1600/linnie's+blooms.png" /></a></div>
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I chose the <a href="http://lindabarutha.com/shop/faber-castell-gelatos-2">Faber-Castell Gelatos 50's Diner collection</a> for my card today. The colors were so perfect for the inspiration photo. First I stamped a cozy pattern using WPlus9's Fair Isle Backgrounds with Versamark on white cardstock and heat embossed it in white.<br />
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Using the blending tool included with the gelatos, I added the red pigment to one end of the stamped panel and the yellow to the other and blended each color toward the middle. I just kept reapplying the color until I had the effect I wanted, then rubbed a baby wipe over the embossed pattern to remove any excess pigment.<br />
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The sentiment, from Uniko Studio's Stunning Snowflakes, is stamped in Basic Gray and adorned with a few gray gems.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/CC2_zps3673ede1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/January%202014/CC2_zps3673ede1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Papertrey Ink (Smokey Shadow), WPlus9 (White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: WPlus9 (Fair Isle Backgrounds), Uniko Studio (Stunning Snowflakes)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Basic Gray), Versamark</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tool: corner rounder</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Faber-Castell Gelatos (50's Diner), Filigree (white embossing powder), gems</span></i></div>
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As you may have seen on the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call Challenge blog</a>, this will be my last post as a Design Team member. It was a difficult decision to step away, but it's the right one for me at this time as I try to balance my new responsibilities at work and the activities of my busy young family. <br />
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Never fear, though, the talented ladies of the Design Team will continue to wow you twice a month over at the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge</a> blog! I wish them all continued success and many thanks for letting me be a part of the reopening of the Curtain Call.<br />
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Thanks to you, my readers, for visiting today! I hope you have a wonderful start to the New Year!<br />
<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-3734740229156485292013-12-30T06:00:00.000-05:002013-12-30T06:00:01.255-05:00The 12 Kits of Occasions--December 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/kit_zps26860001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/kit_zps26860001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hi there! Sorry I've been even quieter than usual lately, but this month has been especially hectic for my family. My husband and I sold his mother's home of 42 years and bought her a new one closer to us, and we had less than a week to clean it out. It was incredibly stressful getting everything lined up to happen in time, but somehow we finished up just a few days before Christmas. We're looking forward to getting my MIL moved into her new place soon and settling back into our normal routines. :)<br />
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Believe it or not, we've come to the end of another month, and with it another round of <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a>. This month's hostess is Jessica, and she sent us a Christmas-themed kit full of the most darling images and supplies. I knew I'd only be able to scratch the surface of this fantastic kit in the limited time I had this month, so I pulled out my very favorite items and went to work.<br />
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The first card I made used the cute rabbit on a sled from Lawn Fawn. I colored him with Copics and added a trail of gems behind him to give a sense of movement.<br />
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My second card uses more Lawn Fawn images and sentiments with a fun chevron embossed background.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/kit2_zpse4fd793a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/kit2_zpse4fd793a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My last card uses die cut poinsettia flowers from Paper Smooches with a pretty script sentiment from Mama Elephant.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/kit3_zps157338cf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/kit3_zps157338cf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I can't wait to see what the other ladies made!<br />
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Stop by<a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/"> The 12 Kits blog</a> to see the full list of supplies, plus you can find out the winner of our recent Guest Designer contest! <br />
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Don't forget to leave a comment here and on the rest of the designer's blogs for a chance to win a fabulous giveaway, courtesy of Jessica. Stop by the 12 Kits blog for more details.<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-4286345343533724672013-12-15T09:13:00.000-05:002013-12-15T09:13:57.822-05:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Sweet Snowflakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC_zpscdeaafd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC_zpscdeaafd3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We have some sweet inspiration for you this week at the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call</a>, as well as a wonderful sponsor and a couple of special guest designers.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTmg2d_WYMYIOcVSzeO4hf76TjA8BXM5Kop3ujL7f-eEdS2CXfSeulZ7KBU4epPwgrypE_2o8lioDO2z09kkIqg55V9VmSRPv4cj2jzH2IqYU07UJRUZAQTj3YVsgBijev6R4qXL9alRao/s1600/sweet+snowflakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTmg2d_WYMYIOcVSzeO4hf76TjA8BXM5Kop3ujL7f-eEdS2CXfSeulZ7KBU4epPwgrypE_2o8lioDO2z09kkIqg55V9VmSRPv4cj2jzH2IqYU07UJRUZAQTj3YVsgBijev6R4qXL9alRao/s320/sweet+snowflakes.jpg" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo credit: akeptlife.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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Our generous sponsor for the Sweet Snowflakes challenge is <a href="http://www.uniko.co.uk/">Uniko Studio</a>, and they are offering a gift certificate to the LEAD for this week's challenge.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvigStutk-xSNPOrZAW05gXGA7S7wdsAvyFzYQ3c5jbyl9G0C9npW1r7JTUl1NuqmAbXZtBpifHqE86bddQLdvy4lAAv1yfyFpQ_3BnA4RuWy9IS9Oy80MPht1Y72vRcVT_nTbt_bs3K6/s1600/us+gc.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvigStutk-xSNPOrZAW05gXGA7S7wdsAvyFzYQ3c5jbyl9G0C9npW1r7JTUl1NuqmAbXZtBpifHqE86bddQLdvy4lAAv1yfyFpQ_3BnA4RuWy9IS9Oy80MPht1Y72vRcVT_nTbt_bs3K6/s320/us+gc.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Curtain Call Crew was fortunate enough to get to work with <a href="http://www.uniko.co.uk/product/stunning-snowflakes-clear-stamps/">Uniko Studio's Stunning Snowflakes</a> stamp set. This is my first set from Uniko Studio, and I was impressed with the high quality of the stamps themselves as well as the sturdy DVD case they came in. Many thanks to <a href="http://unikostudio.blogspot.co.uk/">Beverley</a> for sharing this set with us!<br />
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I pulled the aqua, kraft, and white from the photo for my card. The kraft card base is stamped with the smaller snowflakes in white ink, with some dots of white gel pen in the empty spaces.<br />
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For the white panel, I die cut the bottom edge before stamping the sentiment, then added the trio of snowflakes in Pool Party ink. After adding some texture to the panel with an impression plate, I stitched from each snowflake to the top edge, pulling the threads through to the front above the biggest snowflake to tie a tiny bow.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC2_zpsd814dd1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC2_zpsd814dd1b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 (Kraft, White), Stampin' Up! (Pool Party)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Uniko Studio (Stunning Snowflakes)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: WPlus9 (White), Stampin' Up! (Pool Party, Chocolate Chip), white gel pen</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: My Favorite Things (Die-namics LJD Bracket Edge Duo), Papertrey Ink (Linen & Canvas impression plate)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: thread, gems</span></i></div>
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As promised, we have two fabulous guest designers in addition to the Curtain Call Crew sharing inspiration today:<br />
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://unikostudio.blogspot.co.uk/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Beverley Brown,</a></b> Uniko Studio</div>
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<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://craftingconfessions.blogspot.co.uk/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Amy Wanford</a></b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">, Guest Designer</span></span><br /><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
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<a href="http://www.bellarosecards.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Amber Kroening</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://kinsalecreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Barb Murphy</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://christinamaclaren.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Christina MacLaren</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://scrapawayg3.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Gayatri Murali</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://joyfulcreationswithkim.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Kim Singdahlsen</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://soapboxcreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Laurie Willison</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://rosemary-reflections.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Marisa Ritzen</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://buttonsandbling.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Maureen Plut</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.stampnmad.typepad.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Monika Davis</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://papercraftyscreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Sheri Gilson</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://stampinwithstacey.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Stacey Schafer</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://jazzypaper.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Tenia Nelson</b></a></div>
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<b style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Tracey McNeely</a></b></div>
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I hope you'll join us for this week's challenge! Thanks for stopping by today.</div>
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Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-494318799299591792013-12-05T06:00:00.000-05:002013-12-05T06:00:11.224-05:0025 Days of Christmas Tags with Tracey McNeely<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/Dec5tag_zpsf15cc4ca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/Dec5tag_zpsf15cc4ca.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm feeling very honored today to be taking part in a fun event with my friend, <a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.com/">Tracey McNeely</a>. This is the third year for her popular "25 Days of Christmas Tags", and this year is even more special because she has invited guest designers to join her each day of the month.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HzMrDIBylR9YVfLpSG7pcho6dLfOievfRGUTqZul1m4B2IkTxJfqUzKeEgCsZ5kP7Fp74na1VxN_PK1ozEAs11L9odn2DWOYqQe0Qs-RSA_i1ud1JRpkDl02MrVFrrInNbdu2TLLPa5R/s1600/1472224_10201127031963388_901562492_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HzMrDIBylR9YVfLpSG7pcho6dLfOievfRGUTqZul1m4B2IkTxJfqUzKeEgCsZ5kP7Fp74na1VxN_PK1ozEAs11L9odn2DWOYqQe0Qs-RSA_i1ud1JRpkDl02MrVFrrInNbdu2TLLPa5R/s320/1472224_10201127031963388_901562492_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm sure Tracey needs no introduction for most of you, but not only is she one of my teammates in <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a> and at the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge</a>, she is also one my favorite designers. I am always drawn to Tracey's ultra-CAS, fresh designs and her beautifully balanced use of color. But more than that, she is one of the sweetest people I know in blogland, and she always leaves the most genuine and encouraging comments on my posts.<br />
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For my tag, I had actually planned to use the more recent holiday set from WPlus9, <a href="http://www.wplus9.com/merry-bright/">Merry & Bright</a>. Then I looked back at Tracey's previous tag posts and saw that <a href="http://kandrdesigns.blogspot.ca/">Kara</a> had used it for her gorgeous design. There's no way I'm competing with <a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.com/2013/11/25-tags-of-christmas-13-day-4.html">that beauty</a>, so I pulled out one of last year's Christmas sets, <a href="http://www.wplus9.com/iconic-christmas/">Iconic Christmas</a>.<br />
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The tag and frame, patterned paper strip, twine, and gems are leftover supplies from <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-12-kits-of-occasions-november-kit.html">The 12 Kits for November</a>. I stamped the tree on the solid tag, then layered the frame, silhouette image, and paper strip on top with foam tape. The sentiment is from WPlus9's <a href="http://www.wplus9.com/silver-bells/">Silver Bells</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/Dec5tag2_zps1aef557e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/Dec5tag2_zps1aef557e.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Papertrey Ink (White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: Echo Park (Tis the Season)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: WPlus9 (Iconic Christmas, Silver Bells)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Garden Green), Memento (Tuxedo Black), Sakura (silver gel pen)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: Papertrey Ink (Tag Sale #8), WPlus9 (Iconic Christmas die set)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: rhinestones, baker's twine</span></i></div>
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I can't wait to see the tag Tracey created for today, and rumor has it there's a prize up for grabs at the end of the month. Stop by her blog, <a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.com/">In My Creative Opinion</a>, to get the details!<br />
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Thanks to Tracey for letting me join her today. And thanks to you for stopping by!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-22522475434815479212013-12-01T09:00:00.000-05:002013-12-01T11:49:15.021-05:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Christmas Countdown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC_zps7ab345ea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC_zps7ab345ea.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's the beginning of a new month, and the beginning of a new challenge at the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call</a>. This week's theme is Christmas Countdown:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7bU0tyvLGhfU_sB4GF_sdhQt53h0m08yu2IXJ-oi6RGOit0-p39rai4PVOndk_SyV66Wo2jP5mcn16Kb9CyMYTmexCPcgAkjdy7Zpwt6FB02piRz5z-mYB7z5nBOMaA9if5Vx4Ta7eKj/s1600/christmas+countdown+december+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7bU0tyvLGhfU_sB4GF_sdhQt53h0m08yu2IXJ-oi6RGOit0-p39rai4PVOndk_SyV66Wo2jP5mcn16Kb9CyMYTmexCPcgAkjdy7Zpwt6FB02piRz5z-mYB7z5nBOMaA9if5Vx4Ta7eKj/s400/christmas+countdown+december+1.jpg" width="310" /></a></div>
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We have another fantastic sponsor for our challenge: <a href="http://www.sweetstampshop.com/">Sweet Stamp Shop</a>. They were "sweet" enough to provide the Curtain Call Crew with a stamp set of their choice, and they are offering a $15 gift certificate to the <a href="http://www.sweetstampshop.com/">Sweet Stamp Shop store</a> to the LEAD for this challenge!<br />
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My interpretation of the challenge was very literal. As soon as I saw the <a href="http://www.sweetstampshop.com/alpha-tabs/">Alpha Tabs</a> stamp set, I knew I wanted to create my own Christmas countdown in card form. I stamped the "25" first, then filled in the numbers around it, using lightly drawn pencil lines as a guide.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC2_zps70a92c72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/December%202013/CC2_zps70a92c72.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are even more projects to inspire you this week from the Curtain Call Crew:<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.bellarosecards.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Amber Kroening</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://kinsalecreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Barb Murphy</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://scrapawayg3.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Gayatri Murali</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://joyfulcreationswithkim.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Kim Singdahlsen</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.rosemary-reflections.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Marisa Ritzen</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.stampnmad.typepad.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Monika Davis</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://papercraftyscreations.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Sheri Gilson</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://stampinwithstacey.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Stacey Schafer</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://jazzypaper.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>Tenia Nelson</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.com/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Tracey McNeely</a></b></div>
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I hope you'll play along with us this week! Thanks for visiting today!</div>
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Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-68406061353272967472013-11-30T09:00:00.000-05:002013-11-30T09:00:02.208-05:00The 12 Kits of Occasions--November 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit1_zps319856dd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit1_zps319856dd.jpg" width="632" /></a></div>
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Hello, friends! It's my favorite time of the month--time for the latest installment of the <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">12 Kits of Occasions</a> reveal!<br />
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Kelly is our hostess this month, and she sent us an incredible kit full of trendy chalkboard sentiments and iconic holiday images. Be sure to head over to <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">The 12 Kits blog</a> to see the kit contents and get sneak peeks of projects from the rest of the crew!<br />
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I've made 4 cards so far with my kit, but I anticipate working more with it over the next couple of weeks once I'm done teaching. :)<br />
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My first card uses one of the fantastic chalkboard greetings with holly leaf accents and a debossed music score in the background.<br />
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The next card might be my favorite. I simply stitched some of the patterned papers along an angle and added one of the tags from the kit, tying it with gorgeous red ribbon.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit3_zpsb55cae7c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit3_zpsb55cae7c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was actually the first card I made, on which I hung the ornaments from the top of the card using silver embroidery thread. I'm not exactly sure where I was going with the label frame behind the ornaments, but I guess it works!<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit2_zpsc05b9eeb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit2_zpsc05b9eeb.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For my last card, I stitched some papers at an angle again and placed the die cut tree at the intersection. I used the pretty, silver sheer ribbon to add some interest at the bottom.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit4_zpsb2704ee5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/kit4_zpsb2704ee5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In addition to our amazing regular designers, we have a special guest this month, so be sure to stop by <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/">The 12 Kits blog</a> to find out who it is. There is also a prize up for grabs this month, so head over to check out the details!<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-29713818260596162832013-11-15T09:00:00.000-05:002013-11-15T09:00:12.705-05:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--CAS-ual Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC_zps351e4245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC_zps351e4245.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ready for a new <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge</a>? We have another wonderful sponsor and a beautiful image to work with for this week's theme: CAS-ual Christmas.<br />
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<a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMMa28BrTYatUgWO6_tbRRMydLGdp-GhB_f_PFBE6kUwsxSI0G-p6zCCXhxJls8pxnuYhYe-np1fQHI01EWy7LgbMCjlyYALRWgwRXz0XOiyBI1ginmivn1QKbA3W1no3OLtNQgBU3nSZ/s320/casual+christmas_edited-2.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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We're fortunate to have one of <i>the best</i> stamp companies sponsoring us this week: <a href="http://www.cas-ualfridaysstamps.com/main.sc">CAS-ual Fridays Stamps</a>! I was lucky enough to design with many of Michele's stamps when I was a member of the <a href="http://cas-ualfridays.blogspot.com/">CAS-ual Fridays Challenge</a> Design Team, and I still love the graphic illustrations and beautiful fonts of these versatile sets.<br />
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The Curtain Call Crew got to choose a CFS holiday set to work with for this challenge, and I chose <a href="http://www.cas-ualfridaysstamps.com/Christmas-Carols-CFSS-13-022.htm">Christmas Carols</a>:<br />
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<a href="http://www.cas-ualfridaysstamps.com/main.sc" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWaBtOJye-W8JExkN8DIl34o_3iErR8nXiOzHvez8dZj8xUG85qv35WK17_4THQtDFxFHyYzdkGl1g_WLzZ0cb2sgE_y1VxOV45X5C5cyYOZ_npCDVk-1dIh-3zwsV-ZffpYzJwFOHF0tU/s1600/CFS+Blog+Button.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwwBFHdf4y5Jt_vnXCPtl-9ijt87FlU1UUEADE_Xz19YWUjLN6-e7DDlVg7GnbFSL76gygIyHS6TRBG6QeXa9oEz7zL6ZQ2C59RkkznCEGWwZlgjdg0Qp6G9BIl9Pzh9RTY8qPqmgpAmAr/s1600/1375205782197-1788775548.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwwBFHdf4y5Jt_vnXCPtl-9ijt87FlU1UUEADE_Xz19YWUjLN6-e7DDlVg7GnbFSL76gygIyHS6TRBG6QeXa9oEz7zL6ZQ2C59RkkznCEGWwZlgjdg0Qp6G9BIl9Pzh9RTY8qPqmgpAmAr/s320/1375205782197-1788775548.png" width="190" /></a></div>
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Doesn't the holiday scene in the inspiration photo look cozy and relaxed? I love the rustic touches of burlap and the unexpected use of cool blue, so I included those elements in my design.<br />
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To create the tree as the focal image, I repeatedly stamped the four-petal flowers and decorated the centers with silver pearls. I stamped one of the sentiments in Early Espresso right on top.<br />
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I finished my clean and simple design with a stitched border and a strip of burlap ribbon for texture.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC2_zps46fb9c71.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC2_zps46fb9c71.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Baja Breeze), WPlus9 (Oatmeal)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: CAS-ual Fridays Stamps (Christmas Carols)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Old Olive, Baja Breeze, Early Espresso)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tool: corner rounder</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Michaels (pearls), thread, burlap ribbon</span></i></div>
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Don't forget to stop by the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/">Curtain Call Challenge blog</a> to see the rest of the Design Team samples and link up your creation. This week's LEAD will receive a CAS-ual Fridays stamp or die set of their choice!<br />
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Thanks for stopping by today! Have a great start to your weekend!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-62523144285552116682013-11-09T08:00:00.000-05:002013-11-09T08:45:19.654-05:00Moxie Fab Thanks Blog Hop!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEnwp5hcF6V3E0ZeQWO9XqwlxIpo4hS2eiswq49QglkLIAq6LFGDUuAwS7wr1Ko0Kh7P_KIq-OSDWzPjjL3Sxm2J_bCIPHrJjdDo3fyzhleevqVFBrjMUAPSm2mwvh510w-X3ceK9prjt/s1600/Moxie+Fab+Banner+4-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEnwp5hcF6V3E0ZeQWO9XqwlxIpo4hS2eiswq49QglkLIAq6LFGDUuAwS7wr1Ko0Kh7P_KIq-OSDWzPjjL3Sxm2J_bCIPHrJjdDo3fyzhleevqVFBrjMUAPSm2mwvh510w-X3ceK9prjt/s640/Moxie+Fab+Banner+4-1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today I'm participating in a very special (and <i>enormous</i>) blog hop for the one and only Cath Edvalson! </div>
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You should have arrived here from <a href="http://leighpenner.blogspot.com/2013/11/moxie-fab-thanks-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">Leigh Penner's blog</a>, but you can find the full list of participants at the <a href="http://www.moxiefabworld.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Fab World</a> blog.</div>
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Like many of you, I was saddened when I found out that Cath would be saying goodbye to the <a href="http://www.moxiefabworld.com/" target="_blank">Moxie Fab World</a> and <a href="http://www.papercraftsmag.com/index.html" target="_blank">Paper Crafts magazine</a>. Cath has been such an incredible source of inspiration to those of us in the world of paper crafting, it's hard to imagine what it will be like in the blogosphere without her daily posts. Not only did she make the Moxie Fab World the go-to source for everything trendy and beautiful, but her posts were always engaging, enlightening, and written in a friendly voice that made it feel like we were having a chat.</div>
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Cath, thank you for showing us that it really is a Moxie Fab World! You will be missed!</div>
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/Cath_zps4b1f5977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/Cath_zps4b1f5977.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My card for Cath is simple to keep the focus on the message. I used an inset die cut "thanks" and the coordinating stamp from Simon Says Stamp, Echo Park paper, and Studio Calico wood veneer stars.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/Cath2_zps5f673654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/Cath2_zps5f673654.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 (White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: Echo Park (A Perfect Summer)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Simon Says Stamp (STAMPtember Stamps Thanks)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Island Indigo)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: Simon Says Stamp (STAMPtember Thanks Craft Die), Papertrey Ink (Linen & Canvas impression plate)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Studio Calico (wood veneer stars)</span></i></div>
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To continue on the hop, your next stop is <a href="http://vanlaardesigns.blogspot.com/2013/11/moxie-fab-thanks-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">Heidi Van Laar</a>.<br />
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Thanks again to Cath, and <i>thank you</i> for stopping by today!<br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-42321705568369684672013-11-03T03:05:00.000-05:002013-11-03T03:05:00.680-05:00Happy Birthday Tracey!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/tracey_zps5f237cbd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/tracey_zps5f237cbd.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hello, friends! I have an extra special post today to celebrate the birthday of a talented designer and all-around fabulous lady, <a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Tracey McNeely</a>!<br />
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Lots of people want to wish Tracey a happy birthday, so our friend and fellow <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">12 Kits of Occasions</a> designer,<a href="http://cards-by-the-sea.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> Joyce</a>, is hosting a Linky party over on her blog. Feel free to join in with your birthday wishes for Tracey by linking up there!<br />
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I hope Tracey doesn't think my card for her is too masculine. :) I wanted to incorporate an autumn theme and keep the design very clean and graphic, as Tracey's own designs tend to have lots of white space and perfect stamping.<br />
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My favorite part of this card is the stitching for the leaf veins, which adds just the right amount of texture to otherwise flat images.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/tracey2_zps74fb4948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/tracey2_zps74fb4948.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Baja Breeze), Papertrey Ink (Vintage Cream), A Muse Studio (woodgrain)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Paper Smooches (Leafy Greens), Clearly Besotted (Tag Along)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Baja Breeze, So Saffron, Peach Parfait, Chocolate Chip)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: sequins, thread</span></i></div>
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I hope you have a wonderful birthday full of all of your favorite things, Tracey! Enjoy your virtual party!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-53743311370787155462013-11-01T09:00:00.000-04:002013-11-01T09:00:06.612-04:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Welcome Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC_zpse6a3ac3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC_zpse6a3ac3a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wow, how did it get to be November?! The weeks are just flying by, and it's already time for a new challenge at the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Curtain Call</a>. Check out our lovely inspiration photo:</div>
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<a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQ0lPfDr1D3TwC-5TghrRGZ2SdQ53l83I-wQrI12sZuhsVBcjUrCO7uzfyUobr7qK3b3oMNBoVenPZEQzOQhAA2fIPT692qr-OwUq2RVCES6rvvgxCPwUxzDP1uCEun2gZh1g15C-OSih/s320/welcome+home+november+1.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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Our sponsor for this challenge is <a href="http://www.paperissues.com/" target="_blank">Paper Issues</a>, and they are offering a $20 gift certificate to the LEAD for the Welcome Home challenge. Thank you, Paper Issues!<br />
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I was drawn to the soft blue, weathered wooden door in the background and the placement of the wreath off the edge of the photo.<br />
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To create this card, I first stamped the woodgrain pattern with white ink onto blue cardstock. I ran my finger over the ink while it was still wet to soften it and remove any excess ink. <br />
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I don't have a wreath stamp large enough for the design I had in mind, so I created one using the single pine bough stamp from WPlus9's <a href="http://www.wplus9.com/merry-bright/" target="_blank">Merry & Bright</a>. I traced a circle in pencil where I wanted the wreath to go, then stamped the pine sprig repeatedly along that line. <br />
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The pine cone stamp is also from Merry & Bright. The berries, sentiment, and ribbon are from WPlus9's <a href="http://www.wplus9.com/silver-bells/" target="_blank">Silver Bells</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC2_zps2d088bc0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/November%202013/CC2_zps2d088bc0.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 (Lake House, White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: WPlus9 (Merry & Bright, Silver Bells, Woodgrain Silhouettes)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: WPlus9 (White), Stampin' Up! (Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Raspberry Ripple)</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: WPlus9 (Silver Bells companion dies), corner rounder</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Zig (Wink of Stella glitter brush)</span></i></div>
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I'm sorry if the colors seem a little washed out in my photos. My computer is one that was issued by the college where I work, and it was recently upgraded to a newer version. Unfortunately, the screen resolution is not as good and I will have to get used to editing my photos on it.<br />
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There's more inspiration from the talented <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Curtain Call Crew</a> to help you get started! I look forward to seeing all of the beautiful entries in the gallery this week.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you have a wonderful start to your weekend.Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-85778193714407656962013-10-30T06:00:00.000-04:002013-10-30T06:00:13.175-04:00The 12 Kits of Occasions--October 2013<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit1_zps6bfe4db7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit1_zps6bfe4db7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Autumn Blessings card</td></tr>
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Hello! It's time another edition of <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a>. You can read all about the 12 Kits on the group blog if you haven't already. <br />
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Our hostess this month is Kara, and she sent us a fantastic kit full of Autumn and Thanksgiving themed supplies. Here's a peek at the goodies:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkHuQDX42hyphenhyphengq1J4jYpEoJBj8PLuTcxbOh4v9C2rruUTM-oN6WbqVwGDjMJndg42kuR557NOZB8cErqtb8VPI6KIrj_bdDdZVpv5-sivleO7f-qHFxYfq12mRuENtaW6Si_QIEZawoovp/s1600/octsneakpeekjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkHuQDX42hyphenhyphengq1J4jYpEoJBj8PLuTcxbOh4v9C2rruUTM-oN6WbqVwGDjMJndg42kuR557NOZB8cErqtb8VPI6KIrj_bdDdZVpv5-sivleO7f-qHFxYfq12mRuENtaW6Si_QIEZawoovp/s320/octsneakpeekjpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As always, you can check out the full supply list at <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The 12 Kits of Occasions blog</a>.<br />
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It's been a rough month at my house, but I managed to sneak in some time to make two cards and a set of 4 place cards. There are plenty of supplies to play with later, and I will look forward to CASEing the rest of the girls with what's left.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit2_zps05acf73d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit2_zps05acf73d.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blessed card</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit4_zps44ae3b27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit4_zps44ae3b27.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Autumn leaf place cards</td></tr>
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit3_zpsa6b56d67.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/Octkit3_zpsa6b56d67.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sorry to post and run, friends, but I still need to prep for my class tomorrow and get through a pile of grading!<br />
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I hope you're having a great week. Thanks so much for stopping by!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-72074261322434693382013-10-21T16:12:00.000-04:002013-10-21T16:12:51.382-04:00Paper Smooches--Let's Chill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/chill_zpsb6ea6079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/chill_zpsb6ea6079.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Last week's <a href="http://papersmoochessparks.blogspot.com/2013/10/october-14-20-designer-drafts-challenge.html" target="_blank">Paper Smooches SPARKS challenge</a> was a a fun sketch, and although the challenge ended yesterday, I thought I'd share my take on it anyway. I forgot to include the scattered star element and really couldn't make it work once my card was done, so it's just as well that I didn't link it up. :)<br />
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<a href="http://papersmoochessparks.blogspot.com/2013/10/october-14-20-designer-drafts-challenge.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1U2V9H7Ue2HWOJhVzi1FvfJy7ammtwDnzGeVsocwfv14ZLpmLRu_HR9QlJwPjXvgwwO0FISEd4AHRvNfBz8AsfkwDVYHcT9grzixStIZXqciKBmWaVM0R4ucaGP7Hn_IkF2QgHILGohui/s320/9346543628_a94d5903b7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I got the <a href="http://www.ellenhutson.com/servlet/the-20668/Memory-Box-Company-Memory/Detail" target="_blank">Memory Box Pine Border Background Die</a> recently, and I had Paper Smooches' <a href="http://www.papersmoochesstamps.com/Swanky_Snowdudes_p/j2s-11-022.htm" target="_blank">Swanky Snowdudes</a> in mind when I ordered it. Don't they work perfectly together? I cut the pine border from chartreuse felt and added tiny clear gems to make the trees look festive.<br />
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I cut the snowy hills by hand and layered them, brushing clear glitter along the top edges. The snowdude was also cut by hand and popped up with foam tape.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/chill2_zpsa70c83fd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/chill2_zpsa70c83fd.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Pool Party), WPlus9 (White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Paper Smooches (Swanky Snowdudes)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Copic markers</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: Memory Box (Pine Border Background die), Sizzix (snowflake embossing folder)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Papertrey Ink (felt), Zig (Wink of Stella clear glitter brush), clear rhinestones</span></i></div>
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We're enjoying some beautiful fall weather here at the moment, but I know those chilly winter days will be here before we know it.<br />
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Thanks for visiting today!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-46806944921734467812013-10-19T11:55:00.000-04:002013-10-19T11:55:09.783-04:00Clearly Besotted Challenge #5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CB_zps5dd1624d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CB_zps5dd1624d.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy weekend! We've had family in town all week, but I managed to sneak into my craft room for some stamping time. I wanted to play along with the <a href="http://www.stampingsharing.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/clearly-besotted-challenge-5-colour.html" target="_blank">Clearly Besotted Challenge</a>, which has a gorgeous autumn color palette this month.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://design-seeds.com/index.php/home/entry/petalled-palette" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QN-z5T9dbK1lJBxmCLPQOTM9SMgBe-bwlhb7y_veKzlSJ17yKTqme-BGfAlaJQ-dAJrtclCE2HJHsVLNBkpRstN7kAiqYikIsbTBAG4tb-w88uvDCxXMmwzawdXBFc6jlyOIgQWGihuN/s320/ClearlyBesottedOct23.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://design-seeds.com/index.php/home/entry/petalled-palette" target="_blank">Design Seeds</a></td></tr>
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My card doesn't exactly have an autumn theme, but I loved these colors and thought they would work beautifully for a fall wedding card. I was fortunate enough to receive the <a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/products/blooming-marvellous" target="_blank">Blooming Marvellous</a> stamp set for a DT assignment, but I hadn't had a chance to use the rose image yet. I stamped it in shades of yellow and peach along the edge of an ivory panel.</div>
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The sentiment is also from Blooming Marvellous, and I added the little row of x's from <a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/products/basic-banners" target="_blank">Basic Banners</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CB2_zps54ef5948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CB2_zps54ef5948.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Papertrey Ink (Vintage Cream, Smokey Shadow)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Clearly Besotted (Blooming Marvellous, Basic Banners)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Hero Arts (Fresh Peach, Soft Cantaloupe), Stampin' Up! (So Saffron, Basic Gray)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Other: pearls, thread</span></i></div>
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We're off to enjoy the beautiful weather today. I hope you have some fun and/or relaxing plans for your weekend.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-42728854956627846342013-10-17T13:54:00.002-04:002013-10-17T13:54:38.235-04:00Cheers!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/cheers_zps0a850f17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/cheers_zps0a850f17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hi there! <br />
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I'm just popping in to share a little card I made for my brother's birthday, which then sat on my desk for days before getting in the mail terribly late. Oops.<br />
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I couldn't resist the Free Spirits stamp set from Paper Smooches--perfect for many of the hard-to-create-for men in my life. I just lined up the drink glasses, colored them with Copics, and added some of the cute accents from the set.<br />
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Some dots added with a white pen to make the drink bubbly, a simple "cheers" sentiment, and a couple of lines I drew with a black pen are the finishing touches. <br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/cheers2_zpsdfb2013c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/cheers2_zpsdfb2013c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 Design Studio (White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: Echo Park (stripes), Stampin' Up! (orange)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Paper Smooches (Free Spirits)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Tangerine Tango, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip), Hero Arts (Ocean), Memento (Tuxedo Black), Copic markers, white gel pen</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tool: corner rounder</span></i></div>
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I'm slowly trying to get caught up with all of you out in blog land. My family recently experienced a couple of health emergencies which threw our lives into chaos for a few weeks, but the worst seems to be behind us. I appreciate all of you who continue to stop by and leave such sweet comments, despite my irregular and infrequent posts!<br />
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Thanks for visiting today!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-50748378816816740852013-10-15T09:00:00.000-04:002013-10-16T09:49:34.548-04:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Gorgeous Gourds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC_zpsa52e149f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC_zpsa52e149f.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hello there, friends! Are you ready for another <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge</a>? We have another wonderful sponsor and a lovely photo to inspire you. First the photo:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2qkNthuxuwzBBzt39HomOsaavngNz12eQFN1LAUA6Djqvg2lcEH_SNSVHdYNlOCTNwSAqNGPIBRe-tV8E8g9vb7SV8PIjwyNaoy6B5JMR_pTtA8Z1BBZNI3asgwIu1xyE1XERQ0XcUlk/s1600/october+15_gorgeous+gourds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2qkNthuxuwzBBzt39HomOsaavngNz12eQFN1LAUA6Djqvg2lcEH_SNSVHdYNlOCTNwSAqNGPIBRe-tV8E8g9vb7SV8PIjwyNaoy6B5JMR_pTtA8Z1BBZNI3asgwIu1xyE1XERQ0XcUlk/s320/october+15_gorgeous+gourds.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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Now the sponsor: <a href="http://www.papersweeties.com/" target="_blank">Paper Sweeties</a> makes some of the most darling stamps as well as a beautiful selection of hand-dyed seam binding. Paper Sweeties owner/designer, <a href="http://debssimpletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Debbie Marcinkiewicz</a>, was kind enough to provide the Curtain Call Crew with digital images or a discount at the Paper Sweeties store, and she is generously offering a $20 gift certificate to the LEAD in this week's challenge. Thank you, Debbie!<br />
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<a href="http://www.papersweeties.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghigdsFGnF150QOdUcJw3beNT2bp3j9miIXqhLZOKtXqgfF0VxIYRrtX1eP1eY5tZN8kHGlx_UvhrFaYEyMI2j294YppSFVjKoM4mnPEso27ORpEAl_CD1Fomv_30qB-3TnPfF9Cj3p5i4/s400/PS-sleeve-insert-2-copy2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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For my card, I chose to work with digital images from <a href="http://www.papersweeties.com/shop/all-products/sweeties-wagon/" target="_blank">Sweeties Wagon</a>. (Note: Paper Sweeties does not offer digital images in the store, only high quality clear stamps).<br />
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I was really drawn to those beautiful blue pumpkins, but I also pulled the yellow and chocolate brown colors from the striped pillow in the background. I repeatedly "stamped" the digital image of the two pumpkins across the card front and colored them with Copics (you could easily use masking with the clear stamps to create the same effect).<br />
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I used a strip of woodgrain paper I've been hoarding forever from my friend <a href="http://freshlynoted.com/" target="_blank">Suzanne</a>, then added some solid cream twine and a button.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC2_zps815d9426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC2_zps815d9426.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Papertrey Ink (Vintage Cream)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: A Muse Studio (woodgrain)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Paper Sweeties (Sweeties Wagon)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Copic markers</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tool: corner rounder</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Other: The Twinery (Natural Solid twine), button</span></i></div>
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How will those gorgeous gourds inspire you this week? I can't wait to see! Stop by to check out the rest of the Crew's creations and link up your entry for a chance to win some Paper Sweeties stamps of your own.<br />
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Thanks for visiting!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-31534315650629567762013-10-01T09:00:00.000-04:002013-10-01T09:00:04.837-04:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Spooky Scene<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC_zps66793fbc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC_zps66793fbc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Believe it or not, folks, it is officially October! This is my favorite month of the year, so I'm ready to ring it in with a new <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge</a>. Our theme this time is Spooky Scene:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvs9Ux8mpHce0PoFLn3LThFnn7T0boAyBJcOV_7gAaOAcJv3bTw3AKeGnJyazjPPN_skxViSJQ4FvJYfOFxBJw-dNDlPoy5WJwNCglH7FiWKfgbw0lIJU4nFyrS44XnLBEN_cN9iAfIKX/s1600/october+1_spooky+scene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvs9Ux8mpHce0PoFLn3LThFnn7T0boAyBJcOV_7gAaOAcJv3bTw3AKeGnJyazjPPN_skxViSJQ4FvJYfOFxBJw-dNDlPoy5WJwNCglH7FiWKfgbw0lIJU4nFyrS44XnLBEN_cN9iAfIKX/s320/october+1_spooky+scene.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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We have another fabulous sponsor this month. Danielle Walls, owner of <a href="http://www.neatandtangled.com/" target="_blank">Neat & Tangled</a>, provided all of the designers with one of her darling Halloween themed stamp sets for this challenge. She is also offering up any stamp set in the <a href="http://www.neatandtangled.com/" target="_blank">Neat & Tangled</a> shop to this week's LEAD! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UmShRqyPMRCAG0wyzerStzEYyIBXX-aZjKe-KtP53VImkSP1hAXxUq6JruxXiYWKVMLl0wUbt8ASfRDaKMO0prAnmMWzLAjU4k2-EDn2IiauDFZfIq2uyDVCCS83gzQ20adlEPv0kTmo/s1600/neat+and+tangled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UmShRqyPMRCAG0wyzerStzEYyIBXX-aZjKe-KtP53VImkSP1hAXxUq6JruxXiYWKVMLl0wUbt8ASfRDaKMO0prAnmMWzLAjU4k2-EDn2IiauDFZfIq2uyDVCCS83gzQ20adlEPv0kTmo/s1600/neat+and+tangled.png" /></a></div>
I chose to work with the <a href="http://www.neatandtangled.com/collections/frontpage/products/graveyard-shift" target="_blank">Graveyard Shift</a> stamp set, and I couldn't resist this cute little spider. I stamped his web repeatedly on white cardstock, then placed it behind a die cut window in black cardstock.<br />
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After adding the sentiment banner, strip of purple patterned paper, and popped up spider, the card front felt like it needed something more. So I stamped and heat embossed the web image several times in the bottom corner and added a sprinkling of purple sequins.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC2_zps531aa7bf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/October%202013/CC2_zps531aa7bf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 Design Studio (Black, White), Papertrey Ink (Orange Zest)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: Pebbles (Trick or Treat)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Neat & Tangled (Graveyard Shift)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versamark</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: Papertrey Ink (Mat Stack 3, Double Ended Banner dies)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Filigree (white embossing powder), Factory Direct Crafts (sequins), Zig (Wink of Stella glitter brush)</span></i></div>
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The Curtain Call Crew has even more spooky inspiration for you this week! Be sure to see their designs over on the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Curtain Call Challenge blog</a>, where you can also link up your take on this week's inspiration.<br />
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Many thanks for your visit today! Happy October!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-5257879022209966392013-09-30T06:00:00.000-04:002013-09-30T06:00:16.493-04:00The 12 Kits of Occasions--September 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit_zps01c6eae1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit_zps01c6eae1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Welcome back for another month of <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a>! This month's theme is Halloween, one of my favorite holidays. Our hostess, <a href="http://cupcakescardsandkim.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kim</a>, sent an incredible kit just stuffed with supplies, and the packaging was almost too adorable to unwrap!<br />
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My favorite part of this kit was the haunted landscape, so I put it right to work with some striped orange paper, chevron ribbon, and a jack-o-lantern candy bucket.<br />
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My next card showcases a few of the papers from the kit along with a spiderweb border. I love how the yellow and orange pop off of the black card base.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit2_zps90ad878c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit2_zps90ad878c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love this adorable bingo card, so it had to be used with the spiderweb paper, die cut spider, and a Halloween greeting punched into a ticket shape.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit3_zps25f7bba9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit3_zps25f7bba9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For today's last card, I wanted to use this fun paper but found it too busy to use all over the card front, so I die cut a label from the black panel to let the pattern peek through, then stamped a sentiment from an old dollar bin mini set.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit4_zpsa351be90.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/kit4_zpsa351be90.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have a couple more cards to share later in the week, and tons of supplies left that I hope to use in the near future. <br />
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In addition to the rest of the 12 Kit crew, we have a special guest this month, but you'll have to head over to the <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">12 Kits blog</a> to see who it is! While you're there, you can also check out the full list of supplies Kim included in our kit this month.<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by to see my cards! Have a great day!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-60812788507197973942013-09-22T06:00:00.000-04:002013-09-22T06:00:04.579-04:00Happy Birthday Sharron!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/birthday_zps8f74bcf3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/birthday_zps8f74bcf3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have a special card today for a special lady and blog friend! Sharron, the talented designer behind the blog, <a href="http://onpapillonwings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">On Papillon Wings</a>, and a teammate of mine at <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a>, is having a birthday today, and several of her friends have come together to help her celebrate with a blog hop.<br />
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Since Sharron's birthday is on the first day of autumn, I chose some warm fall colors to create a card just for her. I used WPlus9's Written On Ribbon and Fresh Cut Florals, adding a stitched border and some glitter accents to the flowers with a Wink of Stella glitter brush.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/birthday2_zps4d9f0d6c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/birthday2_zps4d9f0d6c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 Design Studio (Oatmeal), Stampin' Up! (Rich Razzleberry)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: WPlus9 Design Studio (Fresh Cut Florals, Written on Ribbon)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Chocolate Chip, Tangerine Tango, More Mustard, So Saffron, Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: WPlus9 Design Studio (ribbon, flower dies), corner rounder</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Zig Wink of Stella clear glitter brush, thread</span></i></div>
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Sharron, I hope you have a fantastic birthday and enjoy your blog hop! Here's the full list of designers wishing you well today:<br />
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1379813277386_2330" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1379813036_0" style="color: #2862c5; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://cards-by-the-sea.blogspot.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1379813277386_2329" rel="nofollow" style="color: #2862c5; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Joyce</a></span><br /><a href="http://emptynestcrafter.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #2862c5; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1379813036_1">Cathy</span></a></span></div>
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Stop by and wish <a href="http://onpapillonwings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sharron</a> a happy birthday, too!</div>
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Happy Fall, everyone!</div>
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Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-5830509485111171882013-09-18T06:00:00.000-04:002013-09-18T06:00:07.403-04:00Surprise Baby Shower Hop!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/baby_zps2383546b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/baby_zps2383546b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Have you heard the news? My friend, <a href="http://thepaperparade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jessica</a>, is expecting a bundle of joy in just a few weeks, and her friends at <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The 12 Kits of Occasions</a> have organized a surprise blog hop in her honor! <br />
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I don't have many baby themed items in my stash, but I do have <a href="http://www.averyelle.com/oh-baby-clear-photopolymer-stamps/" target="_blank">this cute set</a> from Avery Elle that had yet to see ink. Doesn't this little oven look adorable in dots and stripes?<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/baby2_zpsb404de25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/baby2_zpsb404de25.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Papertrey Ink (Berry Sorbet), WPlus9 Design Studio (White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: Echo Park (Dots & Stripes)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Avery Elle (Oh Baby)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Pool Party), Memento (Tuxedo Black)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tool: corner rounder</span></i></div>
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Jessica, I just know you are going to be an amazing mother, and I wish you all the best as you prepare for your new arrival!<br />
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Head over to <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The 12 Kits blog</a> to see who's participating in today's baby shower hop, and don't forget to stop by <a href="http://thepaperparade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jessica's blog</a> to wish her well.<br />
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Have a great day!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-56413946907641963392013-09-15T09:00:00.000-04:002013-09-15T09:00:05.194-04:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Sunflower Surprise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC_zpsfa7bc2b0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC_zpsfa7bc2b0.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Are you ready for a new <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge</a>? This week's theme is Sunflower Surprise:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrNPv_-5kaGHSO0HzQ_wtSKioSkqgVyccctAt-MpNLlkyWygxZ9pGNV_GXI1E5HSUzViFK6ewCygNUWXTwHqpQzfHgXaBJAL-i9RZoPELvKSfy_rFsXEAyEv5Xbqsy1YGoVAPyOdUHYJk/s1600/ccc_template_september15_sunflower+surprise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrNPv_-5kaGHSO0HzQ_wtSKioSkqgVyccctAt-MpNLlkyWygxZ9pGNV_GXI1E5HSUzViFK6ewCygNUWXTwHqpQzfHgXaBJAL-i9RZoPELvKSfy_rFsXEAyEv5Xbqsy1YGoVAPyOdUHYJk/s320/ccc_template_september15_sunflower+surprise.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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We have another wonderful sponsor for this week's challenge: <a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/" target="_blank">Clearly Besotted Stamps</a> has provided each of the Design Team members with the <a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/products/blooming-marvellous" target="_blank">Blooming Marvellous</a> stamp set and <a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/products/blooming-marvellous-die-collection" target="_blank">coordinating dies</a>, and they are offering these beautiful stamps and dies as a prize for this week's LEAD, as well!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb25hVFBUM7YkUP-_4oh8-PM2W2F5n4c9m5vl6RYfKUFUmZW2dl7Yeb2WlYlyB97qG_KsgyTAM-UVpYhF4DR83jhBBmakyOfp6kwy17Cd-_xRhYE_zdC3dXSbSJvo8gq-sHGJSjf28K1NJ/s1600/clearly+besotted+logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb25hVFBUM7YkUP-_4oh8-PM2W2F5n4c9m5vl6RYfKUFUmZW2dl7Yeb2WlYlyB97qG_KsgyTAM-UVpYhF4DR83jhBBmakyOfp6kwy17Cd-_xRhYE_zdC3dXSbSJvo8gq-sHGJSjf28K1NJ/s1600/clearly+besotted+logo.png" /></a></div>
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This gorgeous sunflower doesn't need much embellishment, so I kept my design simple to show it off. I die cut the flower and leaves from Oatmeal cardstock and stamped the corresponding images, then embellished the flower center with a chocolate button and some twine.<br />
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The kraft card base is debossed with a woodgrain texture, though it's hard to see in the photos. Just a little bit of added texture to jazz up a simple design.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC2_zpsd7ff5ca6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC2_zpsd7ff5ca6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 Design Studio (Kraft, Oatmeal), Stampin' Up! (Chocolate Chip)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: Echo Park (A Boy's Life)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Clearly Besotted Stamps (Blooming Marvellous)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Daffodil Delight, Garden Green, Chocolate Chip)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tools: Clearly Besotted Stamps (Blooming Marvellous dies), Papertrey Ink (woodgrain impression plate)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Other: May Arts (twine), button</span></i></div>
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I hope you'll visit my Curtain Call teammates to see their amazing creations this week! Stop by the Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge blog for links and to add your entry to the gallery.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by today. Have a fantastic day!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-24562641743717315832013-09-11T06:00:00.000-04:002013-09-11T06:00:16.027-04:00Happy Birthday Kara!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/Kara_zps1d8c3a37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/Kara_zps1d8c3a37.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have a special card today for a sweet friend who is celebrating a birthday! You probably already know Kara from the <a href="http://the12kitsofoccasions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">12 Kits group</a>, her <a href="http://pinterest.com/kandrdesigns/friday-inspiration-file/" target="_blank">Friday Inspiration File</a>, and her beautiful creations on her blog, <a href="http://kandrdesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">K and R Designs</a>. Some of Kara's friends organized a blog hop to wish her a wonderful day, so be sure to scroll down to see the full list of links.<br />
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For this card, I wanted to try my hand at a skewed panel, as they seem to be very popular at the moment. I chose some festive paper from My Mind's Eye, cut it at an angle, and used a circle punch to make a negative space in one corner. <br />
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I knew I had to use a bird in my design, as Kara loves all things bird-related. This one is from WPlus9. I stamped the feet on the sentiment banner, then stamped the bird's body onto scrap white cardstock and cut it out to pop up in the negative space.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/Kara2_zps095ecd85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/Kara2_zps095ecd85.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Papertrey Ink (Hawaiian Shores), WPlus9 Design Studio (White)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: My Mind's Eye</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: WPlus9 Design Studio (Woodgrain Silhouettes Additions), Mama Elephant (Soiree)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Hero Arts (Ocean)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tool: circle punch</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Michaels (sequins)</span></i></div>
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Here's the list of designers who have special posts today to wish Kara a happy birthday!<br />
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1378859692309_2264"><a href="http://cards-by-the-sea.blogspot.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1378859692309_2265" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: #2862c5; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Joyce</a><br clear="none" /><a href="http://emptynestcrafter.blogspot.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1378859692309_2263" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: #2862c5; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Cathy</a></span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1378859692309_2296"><a href="http://christinamaclaren.blogspot.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1378859692309_2295" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: #2862c5; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Christina</a> (that's me!)</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1378859692309_2285"><a href="http://akeptlife.blogspot.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1378859692309_2284" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="color: #2862c5; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Jeanne</a></span></div>
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Be sure to stop by and leave some love for <a href="http://kandrdesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kara</a>, too!<br />
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Have a great day!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8058023883471823975.post-41489881058050110082013-09-01T09:00:00.000-04:002013-09-01T09:00:06.510-04:00Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge--Back to School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC_zps2a963091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC_zps2a963091.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's time for a new <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Curtain Call Inspiration Challenge</a>! Our theme this week is Back to School, and the timing couldn't be any more perfect as my two kiddos start 3rd grade and Kindergarten next week.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJs4OQ3wV04LftpNhB3r0nqcnHWbMyEb4YweAN76Sg960FkX5SkxfDl3TzdSi5SYm7tMOF5VJHdOeuWWMy228uei6mC0G-gyKUfqaFkm6TnaUXmf_0bVF_sOpE4wNJR3ALwAj9B7FGoDmc/s1600/ccc_template_september_backtoschool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJs4OQ3wV04LftpNhB3r0nqcnHWbMyEb4YweAN76Sg960FkX5SkxfDl3TzdSi5SYm7tMOF5VJHdOeuWWMy228uei6mC0G-gyKUfqaFkm6TnaUXmf_0bVF_sOpE4wNJR3ALwAj9B7FGoDmc/s320/ccc_template_september_backtoschool.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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We have another wonderful sponsor this week: <a href="http://www.thealleywaystamps.com/" target="_blank">The Alley Way Stamps</a> is offering their Learning Curve stamp set to the LEAD this week, so be sure to play along for your chance to win!<br />
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My mojo has been absent lately, so I kept my design simple with just a strip of patterned paper and some stamped images from Paper Smooches' Smarty Pants. I added just a few swipes of Copic marker to add a little something to the images without having to color.<br />
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<a href="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC2_zps6cd1e0a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l547/christinamaclaren/September%202013/CC2_zps6cd1e0a1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: WPlus9 Design Studio (Kraft)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned paper: Fancy Pants</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Paper Smooches (Smarty Pants)</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Stampin' Up! (Chocolate Chip), Copic marker</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tool: corner rounder</span></i></div>
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This one might be going to my husband, my very own absent-minded professor, as classes start at the College next week, too.<br />
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I hope you'll join us for our Back to School challenge! Be sure to visit the <a href="http://curtaincallchallenge.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Challenge blog</a> to be inspired by the Design Team and link up your creation.<br />
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Have a great day!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08651952531369207815noreply@blogger.com20