Thursday, August 30, 2012

Grateful For You

Good morning everyone. Today I am here to show you the September release from Avocado Arts, called Grateful Season.



I love the sunflower image from this set, so needless to say that's the image I use for my card. :)


Keeping it clean and simple. The cut file is so easy to line up with the stamp image. Love that! Now, the DT gals has created some fabulous eye candy using this set. Check  them out, will you.



Speaking about grateful, I am very grateful that my mom will be visiting me from Indonesia in a couple weeks. Yes, I am counting the days. Cannot wait to hug my mom again and of course, hubby and I are looking forward to my  mom's wonderful cooking!! Nothing like your own mom's cooking, isn't it? Well, unless a kid get me as their mom, that's a different story as I don't really cook. Hah.. yes, I am blessed that hubby is a good cook and doesn't mind cooking.

Oh, another wonderful news, last night, I found out that a while back There She Goes Stamps was showcasing some of my cards for their Trendsetting Spotlight, HERE. I couldn't believe that I missed it. They posted it on August 9. Yikes. This month I've been so swamped with works that I didn't get to visit all my favorite blogs as much as I want to. To TSG, thank you so much for the honor. I really wasn't expecting it and I do appreciate it very much.

I want to thank everyone who kindly visited my blog and appreciated your sweet comments. Thank you and have a blessed  day. :)

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

A Couple Cards

Quick post to share a couple cards that I made for SP & Company. My mind hasn't really been on blogging lately and to be honest, I am not sure what to write. I guess, you can say I have a writer's block. :)

So, let's just look at the cards, shall we?


The stripe ribbon is from May Arts, my new favorite at the moment. I am loving gray color at the moment.  Am entering this card for Simon Says Stamp anything goes challenge. Next, is a card using the flower from the same set as above, called For Every Woman.


And, SP & Company is holding a guest DT call right now. If you're interested to apply, check out all the details HERE.

Sorry for the short post. Hopefully, my writing mojo will come back soon. :)

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Carta Bella Collection at Two Peas

Hi all. Quick post to let you know that the new Carta Bella collection is now available at Two Peas In A Bucket. In case you didn't know, I am an affiliate for Two Peas In A Bucket. I hope you will consider to shop at Two Peas through me. All you need to do is click on the badge below or the Two Peas badge on my right side bar and it will take you to Two Peas.


Here's the code for free shipping for any order over $50.
  • Code for August is: H3QJ4R
  • Code for September is: 8VTFE2
And, from now till August 31, they have Back To School sale going on. Might want to take advantage of the sale. Happy shopping. :)

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Pretty As A Peacock

Yay for Thursday. :) I love Thursday. Is it weird that Thursday is my favorite day besides weekend? Usually at work it's also my busiest day, but I love it. I am one of those people that kind of thrive under pressure. And the funny thing, I put the pressure on myself. My boss find it amusing when he look in my office and see the floor and desk covered with binders and papers. 

I do love it when I have a productive day and Thursday usually a guarantee to have a productive day. Yep... come Thursday morning and my mind will be buzzing and I am excited to start the day.

Oy... my mind is wondering all over the place. Time to focus. This week Some Odd Girl is releasing some fabulous digi stamp. And, even though it's not my team's assignment, when I look at the image, I know I had to play.

You can check out the other images that's been introduce this week at Some Odd Girl blog and here's my card today using the newly released Peacock Kaylee.


Can't resist the chance to color the awesome peacock tail. And I think almost all the girls has the same idea to add glitters on it. :) Seriously, love the  gorgeous peacock costume on Kaylee. I definitely want to play some more with it and use different color combo that scream let's party! :)

Do you know that you can win the digi images that's being released this week? Simply leave a comment on each post of the release at Some Odd Girl and you'll be entered for the giveaway. Good luck and may your Thursday be a pretty day.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Verve Birthday Wishes

Today, we're back to card. :) I do have a couple layouts in progress, but as I said, I am slow when it comes to scrapbooking. Not for the design part, but the journaling part. So, usually I would have several layouts laying around waiting to be completed.

While waiting for the journaling inspiration to hit me, I made this card for Verve Card Carnival event. 


The flower is from Verve Stamps set called Hope Blooms, the leaves is from Bloom & Grow, die-cut with Elegant Leaves die, and sentiment from Making A Statement. I colored the flowers with Copic and covered the center of the flower and trace part of the leaves with Stardust stickels.

I kind of dig this color combination. What do you think? Short post today.  May today goes wonderfully for you.

Monday, August 20, 2012

In This Family

I started my journey in paper crafting world with scrapbooking. I got into it way before I get into card making. And for me,  there's different joy in scrapbooking.

I love card making, but when I scrapbook, I could literally feel like my heart is singing. I know, it sounds cheesy, but that's how I feel. I just love, love, love doing it. I think  the main reason would be because I am working on preserving the memories of all the important people in my life. And as I grow older, it's also about remembrance. So many moments, sayings, stuff that I don't want to forget.

I am a bit hesitant in sharing my layout on my blog, because after all my blog focus on card making, but this past few weeks, my heart been wanting to do more scrapbooking and I think since it's also part of who I am, what I love, I should just post it. So, no card for this post, but a layout of my family.


The journaling is inspired by wall plaque "In This House" that I found on Pinterest. For this layout I made it into "In This Family" and of course, I adjusted it to how it goes in my family (you can click on the picture to make it larger if you want to read the journaling). 

This picture is from my visit to Indonesia back in December 2010. Taken on New Year's eve. I love this pic as it capture our family closeness. Yep... to this day, even when we're in our 30's and 40's, we all still like to pile up on the bed and sharing stories, just like we did in our childhood.

And, one thing that I realize.... my scrapbook style totally change from when I first started. :) You can expect more layouts from me, that's for sure. Am a slow scrapbooker, though, so there would always be more cards than layout. Thanks so much for stopping by here.

Make Your Own Patterned Paper

Good morning lovely peeps and happy Monday. :) My weekend didn't go quite as I planned. That plan to clean up my scrap room... yeah, not quite happen. I woke up with layout ideas in my head and ended up playing and create more beautiful mess. Oh well, there's always next weekend, right?

One of the creation that came out from my weekend mess is this card that I made for Lawnscaping latest challenge, make your own patterned paper.


Here's my card:


I simply stamped the airmail & plane sign repeatedly in various colors to create the background. I do find it more freeing when I let go of perfectionism. Instead of stressing out and restart all over when the stamped image didn't line up perfectly, I just kept going and ignore the crooked line. And  that platypus... love. I  got the Critter's Down Under set really just because of the platypus. :)

Are you feeling inspired to play along? Well, come on... And check out what the DT gals and our August guest designer,  Julie Ebersole has created for this challenge HERE. Hope your week starts off wonderfully!

Friday, August 17, 2012

Happy Friday

TGIF! :) Are you ready for the weekend? I sure do. I want to do some major cleaning & organizing of my room as right now my desk looks like a ship wreck. Sigh... I am  trying to be better at using my scraps and all, but if I don't see it I forget. So, I've been leaving them on the desk as a reminder, but the pile getting dangerously high. 

As much as I want to be the super organized crafter, I am not that kind of crafter. No matter how many time I organized everything, my room will never look like the ones you see in the magazine. Anyway, am planning to do some cleaning and I don't know about you, this is actually exciting for me. There's something about sorting things out and finally able to see your desk. :)

Well, last night despite the mess on my desk, I made this card for Market Street Stamps Paint The Town color challenge. I didn't have the  best lighting as it was late night when I did this card, but the brown part of the woodgrain really is not that dark.


I believe in giving honest review and I don't get paid to say this, but when it comes to customer service, many companies could learn from Market Street Stamps. Last year, when one of my stamp broke in two, I emailed Angelica and no question ask, she sent me a replacement immediately. And, yes that's another thing that I love. I order stamps from them and I receive them 2-3 days later.

Love the quality of their stamp, too. It was one of the rare moment, where I stamped something and feel, wow, this is so cool. Their rubber has kind of a bounce feeling to it (I don't know how to explain it, bounce came to mind) and it stamps very clean and clear. I just remember feeling very impressed.

Again, I am not trying to sell their stuff. Just want to share my review. One of my friend pointed out that I like to try stamps from many different company, so I thought hey, why not share my opinion about them. 

That's it for me today. Thanks so much for stopping by here and I wish you all a wonderful & productive weekend. :)

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Avocado Arts

Happy Wednesday! Today the Avocado Arts Pit Crew is sharing a bunch of inspirations and we are also going to giveaway 3 FREE mini stamp sets to people who leave comments on our blogs. Winners will be randomly picked from the blogs. You have until August 17th to hop around and winners will be announced on Avocado Arts blog.

Here's a look at the sets that we're giving away.  





For my card, I used Thoughts and Smiles set, Perfectly Perfect Day set, and a gorgeous bloom from the upcoming September release.


This is my first time using the Avocado Arts cut file and I love how easy it is  to use with the stamp. Everything line up perfectly and easily! LOVE it. Still shaking my head at why I didn't try to do that before.

Please check out what the DT gals created and remember with every comment you leave you have higher chance to win Avocado Arts goodies. Thank you so much for stopping by here. :)

Latisha Yoast
Vera Yates <--- you are here

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Gina K Designs Blog Hop


Hi everyone and welcome to Gina K. Designs inspirational blog hop.Gina and the Design Team will inspire you with many beautiful ideas! And as you hop through the blogs, make sure to leave a comment on each of them because we will choose a few random comments and those stampers will each win a grab bag of deeply etched, pre-cut Gina K. Designs stamps! 

To see the full list of winners check the Big News forum at Stamp TV a couple of days after the hops!! Today, I am highlighting the newest Becky Oehlers set called “American Made” which is available for purchase in CLEAR and RUBBER!

First, let's take a look at the stamp set.

American Made- CLEAR


To me this set has a bit of vintage look and a bit of rugged look. And, what I love, that ray, when you stamp it twice will create a full circle of rays. Simply fabulous. Also available from Becky Oehlers this month:

Here's my card using the rays and the label. 



The ray is embossed with sparkle embossing powder, so in person the card actually has a nice glitter to it. And, I couldn't stop at just one card as I want to use the ray with die-cut. I cut the map using Silhouette and stamp the ray twice. Then add the fine lines ray in between  the solid ray.



I know you have quite a few blogs to visit, so I'll keep it short. Below is a list of the blog for the hop. Thank you so much for stopping by here and have fun hopping!! :)

-  Gina K
-  Beth Silaika – Illustrator Stippled Nature
-  Becky Oehlers – Illustrator American Made
-  Tami Mayberry – Illustrator Light Hearted Wishes
-  AJ Otto
-  Deb Felts

Monday, August 13, 2012

Hey There

So, how did you like the Olympic closing ceremony? It's like one big concert, wasn't it? I love it. Yes, some part is a bit confusing, but all in all it's so entertaining. And I love the Spice Girl reunion. :) I admit it. 

This past 2 weeks been such a blast watching the competition and learning about the athletes. I thought swimming, gymnastic, diving (individual & synchronize), beach volleyball, and synchronize swimming were amazing! Oh... how I will miss the Olympic. Definitely looking forward for 2016 Olympic. 

Today, I want to share this card that's published on Paper Crafts Sept/Oct. 2012 issue. I actually have 2 projects that accepted for this issue, but i haven't been able to locate where the second project is. Anyway, I stamped this cute beaver on a cork sheet, fussy cut it, and then add it to the card.


I colored the teeth with white gel pen and the hat with Copic marker. The woodgrain ribbon is from May Arts. 

Tomorrow, I'll be back with a blog hop to showcase the latest Becky Oehlers for Gina K Designs set. See you tomorrow.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

SP & Company August Blog Hop

Hi there lovely peeps and welcome to SP & Company August blog hop! This month we're focusing on the color Yellow! Please join us in hopping along and when you're done, make sure you play along with this month's Yellow challenge (click here for details) for a chance to win some amazing SP and Company prizes!

For my card, I used SP & Company Scripty Scripts set and this month new release Poppy Field Summer set.



And, have you ever wanted to be a Guest Designer on the SP & Company Design Team? Well, this month is your chance to show us what you've got! Play along with our Yellow Challenge and link up your project.  We will pick a Guest Designer that will work with us for an ENTIRE month! For specific details, check out Sami's blog and Good Luck!!!

Make sure you check out the SP Blog to see what Samantha did with the new stamps! And don't forget to hop around to each Design Team Member's blog - there are brand new projects with the stamps that came out TODAY to inspire you!

Kaylee's Closet: Summer Treat

Last one for this month Some Odd Girl clear stamp release from Kaylee's Closet line. It's a mini set called Kaylee's Closet: Summer Treat. It has a cute summery dress, a super cute smiling sun, and a couple yummy cool treats.


I love keeping it CAS with SOG images. I think they're so cute to start with and I just want the image to shine. :) 

And... yep, still loving the green color. Now, looking at this card makes me want to look for a green shoes. Funny that as I get older I branched out to colorful stuff so much more compare to when I was in my 20s. Hey, you only live once might as well make it bright & colorful, right? ;)

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

SOG Kaylee Party Time

Today I am back with with the mini booster pack in Kaylee's Closet line. Here's a look at the Party Time.




And, here's my birthday card. I simply paper pieced the dress using a polka dot patterned paper.


If you look at my post yesterday, you can see all the possibilities and variation you can create using Kaylee's Closet line. Easily you can create tons of different look for Kaylee. From sweet to funky, whatever your preference, you can create it. You can even make a gothic look if you want. :)

Check out the DT gals creation using Party Time at Some Odd Girl blog. Thanks so much for stopping by here.

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

SOG Kaylee's Closet

When I was a kid, I remember that I love playing with paper dolls. I am never into real dolls as I am more to this day a stuff animal person. But, paper doll is a different story. It didn't cost much to collect all  the pretty dresses and accessories.

Then, Kristy came up with this idea to turn the paper doll concept into stamps. Yes, you can make your own paper doll or create a bunch of cards using our new line Kaylee's Closet. Here's a look at the first set from this line called Kaylee's Wardrobe.



See, you can mix and match Kaylee's outfit to your heart desire. Granted that fussy cutting is required, but it's so worth it. Hint... tomorrow we will unveil even more wardrobe for Kaylee. Yes... we will have mini set that will provide Kaylee with outfit for every season & occasion!! Here's my card with a nod to Kristy, thus the streak of blue on the hair. :)


This idea was a pretty big hit at CHA and as you see more inspiration from the DT, I am sure you will agree that the possibilities are endless. Please check out the DT creations HERE and let us know what you think of this concept.

Have a blessed day everyone!

Monday, August 6, 2012

SOG Preppy Pups

** For Lawnscaping Challenge post please scroll down.**

So, did you see what I created for Some Odd Girl's blog hop last Friday?? Well, today, I am back with more puppy cuteness. I know, I know I am partial to pugs, but today I am highlighting the other pup on the set.

And.... I went with a cool, nerdy style for this cute pup! After all the name of the set is Preppy Pups, so being preppy is a must. :) Glassses, check. Bow tie, check.


I decided to go with no sentiment as sometime I think we do need card that's sentiment free. So, are you getting this Preppy Pups set? Come on, you know you want it. Heh..... :)



Lawnscaping One Layer Challenge

Hi everyone. Happy Monday. I'm back with a new challenge from Lawnscaping sponsored by Simon Says Stamp. This time we ask you to create a one layer project.

Simon Says Stamp


And, here's a look at my one layer card using the lantern from Lawnfawn Lunar Lights and the flowers from Blissful Botanicals set .



I also added a soft shadow using Copic around the inside line of the lanterns. Totally happy with the result of this card. As much as I am a CAS girl, sometime doing a one layer is quite a challenge for me, since I tend to fussy cut at least one of the image in my card.

Anyway, short one today as I hurt my neck pretty bad and I don't want to be in front of the computer too long. Check out what the DT gals created for this challenge HERE and hope you will play along.  :)

Friday, August 3, 2012

Some Odd Girl Blog Hop

Welcome Oddies to Some Odd Girl first Blog Hop of the new term! We are thrilled to be showing you a couple new sets that I really think you’re going to enjoy. You’ll be seeing projects featuring our new set, Preppy Pups and our new line, Kaylee’s Closet.
Of course, no hop is complete without a giveaway. Be sure to leave a comment on each stop as we’ll be giving away our Preppy Pups 4×6 set AND our Kaylee’s Closet Wardrobe set!


Now, I am a doggy lover at heart and am quite partial to pug. So, when I saw the puppy set and see that Kristy included a pug puppy, let just said that my heart was taken! Pretty sure I squealed when I saw it. And, when Kristy and I discussing the name for this set, I am so honored that she wants to have my opinion in naming this set, thus come the name Preppy Pups. Seriously, I puffy {heart} Kristy!!
Here's my card to celebrate this uber cute puppy set. I L.O.V.E this set. And the mustache is brilliant!


You know it... I have to go with the pug puppy one. Can you tell me this doesn't make you smile?? I want to pet this card just looking at it. Gah...

And, here's a look at my pride & joy, Eli the li'l trouble maker. Hm.... you  think he'd let me put on a mustache on him??  ;) And, anyone that have met my pugs, will tell you that they're quite the party animal!

Eli, my boy.

Can't stop at just one card, now can I? This time it's time to put on the glasses.


I think this is one of the cutest puppy stamp that's available out there. And, next week I will also share my card using the new line from Kaylee's Closet. 
There's plenty of inspiration with these new sets along the way so let’s get to hopping!
Vera<——————-YOU ARE HERE

You have thru the end of the day on August 5 (midnight EST) to hippty hop to each stop and leave some love. Next week we’ll announce the hop winners. Happy hoppin!

Thursday, August 2, 2012

SOG Sketch Challenge

Hi there lovely peeps. Somehow during my cannot-function-well-due-to-stuffy-nose-moment, it totally slips my mind to post my card for Some Odd Girl August sketch challenge. Here's the sketch.



And, here's my card. Yep, instead of using the Odd girls, I decided to give the lovely light bulb a moment to shine. ;) Patterned paper on my card, you said? Yes, this is in my effort not to just hoard the papers, but to actually use them.


I hope you will join us for this challenge. You can see what the DT created for this challenge HERE and also see this term Odd Girl newbies. Tomorrow, we will also have a blog hop that you don't want to miss as we are unveiling what I think is one of the cutest set that Some Odd Girl ever release!! Hint... if you're a dog lover... this new release set is a must have.

And.. remember as little girls you probably live playing with paper dolls?? You're in a for a treat. I am just sayin'.... :) Come back tomorrow for a fun blog hop, will you. Cheers........



Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Perfectly Perfect Day

Yikes, my Tuesday went by in a haze. I was so deep in allergy, I can barely function at work since I kept sneezing and have runny nose constantly. I don't think I can touch my nose anymore since it felt so raw. Yeah, I know it was bad, when I snap at my boss. Lucky for me, he likes me enough. Sigh... Here's hoping that Wednesday would be better.

Anyway, today the Avocado Arts Pit Crew is sharing more projects using the August set Perfectly Perfect Day. And here's my card. The picture didn't show it, but the white area is actually has linen impression, so it's really not that blank.



I am not 100% happy with this card, yet. Might end up adding more stuff to it later. But, right now with my stuffy nose I can't quite think.

Please check out what the girls created today and check out Avocado Arts blog as well for a free .SVG and .Studio file to download for an easel card. Have a happy Wednesday.

Spellbinders' March Stitched Die

Hi there creative peeps. Happy March. I want to pop in today to share my Spellbinders' March Stitching Die Club card. Spellbinders has l...