Birthday Time - March Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

Thank you so much for joining us for this month's Stamp of the Month Blog Hop where we are highlighting this ADORABLE stamp set, "Birthday Time".

It is a set of 26 stamp sets and can be yours for just $5 with a qualifying purchase. Details on how you can get it in your hands can be found here.

If you are coming from Miss Carrie's Creations, you are on the right track. You can find a complete list of participants by clicking here.

I had FUN making this super simple card with just strips of paper. The two strips of patterned paper are from the Stargazer paper packet and then Red Glitter Paper was a must-have. I LOVE how it came out. It makes me smile and hope it does the same for you!

The pattern is from our Make It From Your Heart - Volume 4, How-To Book. You can see a blueprint of the card is provided on the left, with dimensions. On the right are two samples of the design, with some variation, to help inspire you. These books are what I live by and I'm so thankful I don't have to start creating from scratch.

ShinHan markers were used to color in the letters, which made for a fun element. Colors used were: Carmine, Lavender (under and on top of the Marine Blue to create Sapphire), Marine Blue, Golden Yellow and Warm Grey. The bow was made from White Twine. I felt it needed a little something more and that did the trick.

I truly appreciate you stopping by and hope you enjoy checking out the other artwork. Please consider leaving a comment and then head on over to Michelle Stewart's Blog to see what fun artwork she has to share with you.

Here's wishing you a great month!

From My Home...To Yours...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I know it's easy to get caught up in all the worldly things surrounding Christmas - I do enjoy the lights and festivities - and am thankful I do pretty well not getting drawn into the crazy and negativity that's possible. I hope you are able to take a deep breath today and celebrate the joy of the holidays, consuming yourself in the moment.

We have really enjoyed our Christmas tree, lights and holiday decorations this year. I don't know that I'll be ready to take them down when it's time to do so.

One of the blessings in my life is as a Director for Close To My Heart. Thankful for everything in my life that encompasses CTMH - fellow Consultants, team members, customers, friends and family - we are well taken care of by the owner, Jeanette Lynton, and all of the home office staff. We enjoy various perks as a Director and one of them is receiving a Christmas gift each year.

This is how the package arrived this year and included a beautiful handmade card, with a heartfelt message from Jeanette. It was a definite feel-good and before opening the gift...I drooled a bit over the wrapping paper (LOL); the look AND feel. :) (I'll share the gift soon but am being respectful of those Consultants who may have not already received theirs.

This is a close-up of the card that was included. Isn't it beautiful?! I love everything about it and if I had received it sooner, I would have so copied it! LOL It may just serve as a Christmas card for next year, but regardless, it sure gives me some ideas for other greeting cards.

I wish you a blessed and enjoyable day - whether surrounded by tons of people or a quiet day by yourself or with a few others. Whatever you do today, be sure to remember the reason for the season.

Merry Christmas!